Story perspectives

Defense Secretary Hegseth's Biblical Rhetoric Sparks Church-State Criticism

4/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth referenced a church sermon and likened press to Pharisees during an Iran war briefing on 17 April.
He invoked biblical language, called United States a “Christian nation under God,” and noted his membership in Congregation of Reformed Evangelical Churches, which Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell confirmed.
Critics such as critic Heidi Beirich warned that his nationalist ties threaten separation of church and state and fuel anti-LGBTQ rhetoric.

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Story summary

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth referenced a church sermon and likened press to Pharisees during an Iran war briefing on 17 April.
He invoked biblical language, called United States a “Christian nation under God,” and noted his membership in Congregation of Reformed Evangelical Churches, which Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell confirmed.
Critics such as critic Heidi Beirich warned that his nationalist ties threaten separation of church and state and fuel anti-LGBTQ rhetoric.