CNN Targets Patriotic Christians in New Documentary

Network aims to demonize Christian influence in American history and politics

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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CNN is set to air a documentary this weekend that aims to portray Christian nationalism as a threat to democracy. The network has lost millions of viewers since the Trump presidency and appears to be doubling down on antagonizing large segments of the American public, this time targeting Christians who bring their voice into the political sphere.

Why it matters

The documentary reflects an ongoing effort by some liberals to raise concerns about the influence of Christian values and beliefs in American politics and society. This comes as Christianity has seen a resurgence in prominence in recent years, with a majority of U.S. adults now saying they have made a personal commitment to Jesus. The documentary could further inflame tensions between the network and Christian viewers.

The details

The documentary, previewed by CNN host Pamela Brown, will feature commentary from Matthew Taylor, a visiting professor at Georgetown University and author of a book critical of the Christian nationalist movement. Brown portrays Christian nationalism as an ideology rooted in the belief that the U.S. was founded as a Christian nation and that its laws and institutions should reflect Christian values.

  • The documentary is set to air this weekend.

The players

CNN

A major U.S. cable news network that has faced declining viewership in recent years.

Pamela Brown

A CNN host who is presenting the network's documentary on Christian nationalism.

Matthew Taylor

A visiting professor at Georgetown University and author of a book critical of the Christian nationalist movement.

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What they’re saying

“Christian nationalism is an ideology rooted in the belief that our country was founded as a Christian nation and that our laws and institutions should reflect Christian values.”

— Pamela Brown, CNN Host (CNN)

“The Christian nationalist movement's influence could be at the highest point it's ever been throughout American history.”

— Matthew Taylor, Author (CNN)

The takeaway

This documentary reflects an ongoing effort by some in the media to portray Christian beliefs and values as a threat to democracy, despite the central role Christianity has played throughout American history. The network's decision to air this program could further alienate Christian viewers and deepen the divide between the media and large segments of the American public.