Killings in Arizona and Minnesota shine light on the crisis of Christian extremist violence
MSNBCJUN 23
Arizona Man Confesses to Crucifying Pastor
Above: An aerial view of Phoenix, Arizona. Image copyright: Wikimedia Commons
The Spin
Left narrative
This senseless murder represents growing religious-based violence in the U.S., and if the monster who killed Pastor Schonemann wishes to die himself, it seems reasonable to oblige him. This tragedy, however, shouldn't distract from the far greater threat of Christian nationalism, whose followers have committed widespread political violence, including recent murders in Arizona and Minnesota.
Right narrative
Despite rising attacks on Christians — from mass killings abroad to armed assaults at home — mainstream media largely ignores this violence. Instead, it demonizes public expressions of faith like "Christ is King," branding them as bigotry. By smearing believers across both liberal and conservative platforms, the media creates a climate where hostility toward Christians is normalized, even expected.