Christian nationalism can coexist with American conservatism, author argues

The author notes that 19th-century European nationalism often opposed dynastic empires and the Church, yet American conservatism is rooted in a constitutional republic that already embeds popular sovereignty. As a Catholic, the writer points to Church teachings that recognize both divine source of authority and the legitimacy of the people’s role in governance, showing no conflict with a Christian-nationalist stance. By separating the timeless idea of a nation from the modern doctrine of nationalism, the article argues that preserving a nation's culture and institutions does not automatically equate to liberalism.

It also critiques the notion that nationalism must lead to ethnic secession, emphasizing that American nationalism can simply affirm a shared national identity that includes diverse citizens. Finally, the piece argues that conservatives should focus on conserving the existing American inheritance—its blend of Christianity, liberal ideas, common law, and republicanism—rather than trying to restore a European pre-revolutionary order.