At the 2023 Conservative Political Action Conference, Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) delivered a speech that echoed white nationalist sentiments, asserting that America “belongs to us” and glorifying the struggles of historical figures as fights for a homeland for white Americans. His remarks are seen as shocking, especially coming from a sitting senator, reflecting a growing trend among MAGA politicians who embrace white Christian nationalism.
Schmitt’s rhetoric, which dismisses the contributions and rights of non-white Americans, aligns with other sessions at the conference promoting fear around Islamism and asserting America’s founding as a Christian nation. The article argues that such views misrepresent history and ignore the diverse experiences of all Americans, emphasizing the dangerous implications of Schmitt’s statement that America does not belong to everyone.
The author urges readers to fight against this perspective, asserting that claims to “Americanness” should encompass all individuals, regardless of their background. Ultimately, the article critiques the rise of jingoism and white supremacy within the political landscape, highlighting the necessity of resistance to these ideologies.
