Donald J. Trump and Divine Protection
For Donald J. Trump’s most devoted supporters, the bullet that nicked his ear and came within inches of ending his life was seen not as luck but as a sign of God’s protection. The incident further solidified the belief among his followers that he is destined for a greater purpose.
The Rev. Nathaniel Thomas, a Republican National Convention delegate and pastor, expressed, “I don’t see this as luck, I see this as God’s protection.” Despite Trump’s past pursuits of riches and power, his dedicated supporters, gathered in Milwaukee for the nominating convention, view him as a chosen leader for a second term in the White House.
These supporters draw parallels between Trump and morally flawed yet divinely appointed figures from the Old Testament, such as Cyrus or David, who were seen as instruments of God’s will in epic battles of good versus evil. Their unwavering support for Trump has evolved beyond mere slogans on rally gear to a deep conviction that has been reinforced by the recent attempt on his life.
Michael Thompson, the Republican chairman in Lee County, Fla., gazing at the sky, remarked, “Something’s got to be at play. I don’t think the average person could withstand a tenth of what he has gone through. So yeah, I think he’s probably chosen at the right time in our country’s history.”
Sue Means, a 73-year-old delegate from Bethel Park, Pa., the hometown of the alleged gunman, is an evangelical Christian who has been part of a prayer team for Trump since 2016.