— Mission Statement — Providing straightforward analysis on the intersection of contemporary issues and theology, based on a Biblical Christian Worldview.
Do you think that Donald Trump rigged the election against Kamala Harris? The reality may be more straightforward — and, in some ways, more challenging to accept. Harris didn’t lose because of a hidden plot but rather because of the complex and often messy dynamics of American politics in a divided nation.
Could Trump have orchestrated a secret plan to overturn an election in our decentralized, state-run system under a Democratic administration? It’s highly unlikely. Such a scheme would demand flawless coordination across countless people and agencies nationwide, all keeping every detail under wraps. If American politics has shown us anything, even simple cooperation among officials is challenging.
In moments of disappointment, it’s natural to look for explanations that soften the blow. Stories of behind-the-scenes interference or hidden agendas can feel more comforting than the reality — that the decision didn’t go the way many, including myself, hoped or even prayed it would. But as Christians, we’re called to seek truth, even when it is difficult.
If you abide in my word… [then] you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. — John 8:31–32 (ESV)
This freedom lies in releasing our need to control every outcome and accepting that many things are beyond our understanding. Sometimes, when we question God’s work — asking, “What are you making?” or “Your work has no handles?”¹ — we’re like clay questioning the potter, unable to see the shape or purpose of what’s being formed. Embracing truth, even when uncomfortable, frees us from the burden of suspicion and the divisiveness of trying to explain every detail.
Instead, we’re invited to trust the Potter’s hands, believing His mysterious design is ultimately for good. Trusting that God is ultimately in control brings clarity and hope, allowing us to approach politics with a steady heart. Rather than dwelling on imagined plots or unproven theories, we’re free to focus on real challenges, work toward unity, and trust that God’s purposes are still unfolding, even in disappointment. Real freedom lies in this trust — in knowing that, above all else, God holds the bigger picture.
Ultimately, there were no secret meetings or hidden agendas behind this election. Trump has already faced investigations for alleged interference twice, learning hard lessons each time.
The first investigation, from 2017 to 2019, focused on Russian interference in the 2016 election and Trump’s possible involvement. Although no conspiracy was proven, Special Counsel Robert Mueller noted possible obstruction of justice.
A second investigation began in 2021, examining Trump’s alleged attempts to overturn the 2020 results in Georgia. This included a call where Trump urged Georgia’s Secretary of State to “find” enough votes, which later led to criminal charges against Trump and allies in 2023.
Is this human nature at work? We’re all driven by biases, fears, and a desire for security in an unpredictable world. The real challenge isn’t about uncovering hidden schemes, but about grounding ourselves in facts, understanding why people vote as they do, and examining what that reveals about our feelings and desires. This journey toward truth may not always be easy, but it’s meaningful — especially when we embrace it with humility and faith.
First Facts
At 5:34 AM Eastern on November 6, 2024, the Associated Press declared Trump the presidential election winner. As of November 7, Trump holds 295 electoral votes to Kamala Harris’ 226. The Electoral College has often sparked debate in past elections — especially in 2000 and 2016, when the popular vote winner didn’t win the presidency. This election, however, is different. Trump won the Electoral College and a narrow majority of 50.9% of the popular vote, avoiding the split that stirred controversy in previous races.
Throughout history, there have been instances when candidates won the popular vote but lost the presidency due to the Electoral College. These include Andrew Jackson in 1824, Samuel J. Tilden in 1876, and Grover Cleveland in 1888. In 2000, Al Gore won more votes, but a disputed Florida recount awarded George W. Bush the presidency. In 2016, Hillary Clinton had a significant lead in the popular vote, yet Trump won via the Electoral College. These outcomes remind us that human systems, however imperfect, serve a purpose — reflecting a nation’s diversity and complexity.
While some criticize votes for Independent or Green Party candidates as “taking away” from the Democratic candidate, this year, even a united vote for Harris wouldn’t have closed the gap. Current calculations show that Trump’s popular vote lead would still be more than 3.5 million, more than the combined totals for Harris, Jill Stein, and Robert Kennedy. Whether this would have changed the Electoral College result remains unknown, but the election shows us the reality of a divided nation.
As Christians, we are called to respect governing authorities and to trust that God works through every situation, even when outcomes seem uncertain or the system appears flawed.
Let every person be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God. — Romans 13:1 (ESV)
This year’s election underscores the importance of seeking peace and unity amidst differences, recognizing that God’s purposes unfold in ways we may not always understand.
The Electoral College, complex as it is, reflects the intricate and often split nature of our country’s electorate. As we reflect on the election, we remember that unity doesn’t come from perfect systems but from hearts aligned toward peace and understanding, trusting that, in the end, God’s wisdom transcends even the most challenging political divides.
Feelings or Facts?
In a perfect world, voters would weigh the facts, consider policies, and vote for candidates who best align with their and the country’s interests. That is precisely what I’ve been attempting to teach my children — learn about the different issues, decide your personal views on them, prioritize which issues are most important, and then vote for the candidate you believe will best represent your views.
But reality doesn’t work like that. In politics, feelings often beat out facts. Emotions, not logic, drive many voters’ decisions.
So, while Harris’s qualifications and vision might align with many Americans’ best interests, these factors weren’t enough. When it came down to it, voters chose something other than her experience or plans. They voted based on who they connected with emotionally, who made them feel heard, or who felt familiar.
Why does this happen? Because emotions are powerful motivators. People are often swayed by the subtle comfort of familiarity and the fear of change. Political choices are rarely about pure rationality; they’re about a mix of habit, perception, and gut feelings. And in the voting booth, those instincts often drown out cold facts.
Harris’ loss wasn’t because voters carefully weighed all the pros and cons and decided she didn’t measure up. Instead, many followed their gut feelings, favoring candidates who aligned with their subconscious biases or felt “safe.” Again, there was no secret plan or hidden agenda — just the messy reality of how people make decisions.
For Christians, this is also a moment for humility and to “lean not on [our] own understanding.”² In elections, as in life, humility reminds us that God’s perspective is greater than ours, challenging us to trust in His purpose, even when outcomes challenge our preferences or hopes. Recognizing our limited understanding in this way can guide us away from relying solely on assumptions and toward a deeper faith in God’s overarching plan.
Bias is Real
As Christians, we are called to see others as God sees them, recognizing each person as made in His image.³ Harris’ campaign wasn’t just about policies or qualifications; it also revealed deep-seated biases that challenge our commitment to valuing others equally. Running as a Black woman for high office means facing barriers that are rarely acknowledged but nonetheless real. These biases, often subtle and unspoken, influence us as voters whether we realize it or not.
Society has conditioned us to associate certain faces and backgrounds with power and leadership. For centuries, when someone doesn’t fit that traditional mold, they’re often viewed as “unfit,” even if we don’t consciously realize it. Harris represents a shift from this familiar image. For some, that difference alone brings discomfort, not necessarily as overt prejudice but in quiet “concerns” or “questions” about her experience. Yet, as Christians, we’re reminded that this discomfort isn’t the standard God calls us to follow. We’re to see past appearances and look at the heart,⁴ treating each person with the dignity that reflects God’s love.
Biases like these aren’t unique to Harris or politics; they’re woven into many aspects of evaluating others. Yet Scripture reminds us that God “shows no partiality,”⁵, and we’re called to follow His example by examining our own biases. Elections may bring these issues to the forefront, but our responsibility to treat everyone fairly and lovingly exists far beyond the voting booth.
Harris’ campaign wasn’t just about winning votes and shifting perceptions. True progress toward inclusivity in leadership takes time, but facing these biases is essential if we hope to create a future where leaders genuinely reflect the diversity of God’s people. As Christians, let us strive to support this progress, knowing that God values the heart and calls us to do the same, honoring each person’s unique contributions to His kingdom.
How the Economy Feels
To understand Harris’ loss, we must look beyond the economic data and consider the underlying feelings driving voters. Numbers might show growth, low unemployment, and steady inflation, but people don’t make decisions based on data alone; they act on what feels secure. Right now, many Americans feel uneasy. There’s a lingering sense that something is slipping out of reach — a fear that life is becoming more uncertain and complex to navigate despite positive indicators.
The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe. — Proverbs 18:10 (ESV)
As Christians, we understand that people seek security, especially in times of instability. Yet, when people feel vulnerable, they often look to human leaders to provide that sense of stability. This can lead them to choose candidates who promise a return to familiar comforts, even if these promises are more symbolic than substantial.
History shows us that people often act on emotions rather than pure logic. Economic markets may seem data-driven, but they’re heavily influenced by how secure or fearful people feel. Likewise, in politics, voters can be presented with many positive indicators. Still, if anxiety prevails, they’re likely to choose the candidate who appears to offer stability — even if that stability is just a comforting illusion. In times like these, it’s natural for people to seek reassuring leadership, yet true security is something only God can provide.
Harris became, for some, a symbol of an uncertain future — a shift many weren’t ready to face amidst economic unease. When fear clouds decisions, people often lean toward the familiar, not necessarily what’s best for the future. As Christians, we’re reminded to look past temporary assurances and trust God’s eternal stability. In uncertain times, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”⁶ We’re called to model this faith, finding peace in God’s sovereignty rather than in any earthly promise.
This perspective challenges us to act as good stewards of our resources and responsibilities, trusting that God works through all circumstances, even economic ones. As we navigate the world’s complexities, may we turn first to God, drawing strength from His unwavering presence and remembering that our true security lies in His eternal provision.
Fear of Change
Harris’ loss didn’t happen in isolation. Her defeat reflects a broader trend — a global pattern where fear of change drives voters toward choices that feel “safer.” Around the world, people are grappling with rapid social and economic shifts, feeling as if the “normal” they once knew is slipping away. In times of uncertainty, it’s human nature to long for stability. As Christians, we’re reminded that while change can be unsettling, our hope is not in the past or earthly stability but in God, our unchanging foundation.
Many leaders have gained ground by appealing to this desire for the familiar, often using nostalgia as a tool. They promise a return to “simpler” times, stoking fears of change by pointing to new policies or diverse groups as the source of discomfort. This tactic plays on people’s desire for control and security, subtly reinforcing a longing for a past that seems stable in hindsight, though it may not have been as simple as we remember. While nostalgia can offer comfort, as believers, we’re called to seek God’s guidance for the future rather than clinging to the past.
Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! — Isaiah 43:18–19 (ESV)
Harris’ progressive platform represented change — an invitation to move forward. However, change feels risky and unpredictable for many, especially during global instability. In these moments, voters often lean toward what they know, choosing leaders who promise to “steady the ship,” even if that steadiness is only symbolic. This pull toward familiarity can make people resistant to new ideas, even those that may lead to growth or healing.
As Christians, we are called to navigate change with faith, trusting that God holds our future, no matter how uncertain it seems. God’s one true word encourages us to “Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.”⁷ True peace comes not from resisting change, but from seeking God’s will and embracing the future He has prepared for us.
Harris’ loss wasn’t just about her platform; it reflects a broader shift where fear of change and a desire for security shape elections. For many, the “familiar” feels like the only safe choice, even if it means holding onto ideas that limit progress. As believers, we’re called to move forward in faith, trusting God to guide us through uncertain territory and holding onto the promise that He is with us in every season of change.
Self-Interest
While patriotism and ideals like community sound noble, most voters vote with themselves in mind when they are alone. In the booth, many focus on the basics: jobs, finances, family, and personal values. If a candidate doesn’t address these immediate concerns, people will often choose someone who does. Voters may even pass over a candidate who might benefit the country long-term.
This focus on self-interest is a powerful force in elections and a significant factor in Harris’ loss. It wasn’t an elaborate plan or a hidden agenda. Voters defaulted to what they felt would benefit them the most. Many weren’t thinking about broader progress or marginalized communities in an uncertain world. They were worried about their own lives and immediate realities. So, when voters feel insecure, they often reach for stability — even if it means turning away from a vision that could help move the nation forward.
Self-interest isn’t inherently wrong; it’s a natural part of being human. But it’s also why change can be difficult to achieve. When we constantly prioritize our comfort, we limit our capacity for progress. This narrow focus often prevails in the voting booth, keeping us from seeing the bigger picture. Harris’ defeat was a reminder that, for many voters, “Looking Out for Number One” frequently takes precedence over the needs of others. The whole is not greater than the sum of its parts.
However, for Christians, there’s a deeper calling. God tells us, “Our citizenship is in heaven,”⁸ reminding us that our ultimate hope is in God, not any political system. When we place our hope in Him, we’re better equipped to see beyond personal interests and work toward a future grounded in faith rather than in any single election outcome. This higher perspective challenges us to look past our immediate needs and trust in God’s plan for a future that reflects His values, knowing that true security comes from our identity in Christ rather than earthly stability.
A Call for Democracy
Democracy reflects values that Christians hold dear: fairness, justice, and respect for each individual’s God-given dignity. As each voice is heard, democracy invites us to honor these principles by respecting others’ choices, even when they differ. In this way, democracy aligns with our call to treat each person with dignity, upholding their worth as created in God’s image.
Democracy requires that we accept outcomes, even the uncomfortable ones. If we only believe in the process when our preferred candidate wins, we’re missing the point and weakening the very structure that allows us to choose in the first place. Democracy means understanding that sometimes, the majority will choose differently than we hoped — and still respecting that choice.
Harris’ loss is a reminder that democracy doesn’t consistently deliver the results we want. Instead of turning to conspiracy theories or blaming a flawed system, we should focus on the real issues driving these results. If we want a country that moves forward, we must address the fears, biases, and insecurities shaping elections. Dismissing these challenges only further divides us and keeps us stuck.
Building a better future means acknowledging what’s not working and committing to change it. By accepting the election outcome, we’re not giving up; we’re honoring a democratic process that allows all voices to be heard, even those we disagree with.
In the end, democracy is about having faith in the process and committing to improve it, one election at a time. For Christians, this also means trusting that God is sovereign over all, working through even imperfect systems and leaders to bring about His purposes. When we view democracy through this lens, we’re reminded that true peace and progress come not from any political outcome, but from a faith that endures beyond every election.
Join the Conversation
How do our faith and values influence how we approach voting and view political outcomes? As Christians, are we willing to look beyond self-interest and personal comfort to seek God’s guidance for the common good? In a world often divided by emotions and personal biases, how can we — as a community — bridge these divides and work together to create a future that honors our nation’s diversity and God’s call for justice, mercy, and humility?
The opinions expressed here are my own and do not reflect the views or positions of my employer.
I’m a dad who blogs about the intersections of life, faith, family, and technology. These are the threads that weave through my personal and spiritual walk.
