It’s time to recognize a pressing issue that transcends political affiliations, whether Democrat, Republican, liberal, or conservative. America is facing a significant challenge with individuals being influenced in ways that undermine independent thinking. Addressing this problem is crucial for fostering a society where informed and critical perspectives can thrive.
Who remembers Jim Jones, an American cult leader who famously founded and led the Peoples Temple, a fanatic religious group that tragically ended in one of the largest mass murder-suicides in history?
Does it remind you of something today?
The question of whether MAGA (Make America Great Again) is a cult is complex and controversial. While MAGA does not fit the traditional definition of a religious cult, it exhibits many cult-like characteristics that have raised concerns among experts and observers.
Charismatic Leadership: Donald Trump serves as a central, charismatic figure in the MAGA movement. His followers often view him as infallible and divinely chosen, with some even seeing him as a messianic figure. Trump is a ‘Jim Jones’ of sorts to his followers.

Information Control: Like the Branch Davidians in the 1970s, MAGA adherents tend to restrict their sources of information, often rejecting mainstream media in favor of sources that align with their beliefs.
Us vs. Them Mentality: The movement fosters a strong sense of separation from the rest of society, portraying MAGA supporters as a special elite group.
Unwavering Loyalty: MAGA supporters often demonstrate extreme loyalty to Trump, sometimes prioritizing his word over that of family, friends, or even religious leaders. Jim Jones anyone?
Resistance to Criticism: The movement tends to reject external criticism and may shun those who leave or express doubts.
Donald Trump has repeatedly made vulgar comments about Arnold Palmer’s genitalia during recent campaign rallies. At a rally in Latrobe, Pennsylvania on October 19, 2024, Trump spent over 10 minutes discussing Palmer, including remarks about the late golfer’s anatomy in the showers. Is this what godly men say at public rallies?
The MAGA phenomenon goes beyond typical political fervor, embodying elements of religious devotion. For example, followers often maintain their beliefs despite CLEAR contradictory evidence, sometimes leading to increased commitment. Also, MAGA rallies serve as spaces where beliefs are mutually reinforced, providing relief from external criticism. And, of course, Trump’s attacks on perceived enemies are often viewed by followers as righteous vengeance, regardless of their nature.

Many experts have drawn parallels between MAGA and known cults like Jim Jones’ Branch Davidians.
- Cult expert Steven Hassan argues that MAGA checks all the boxes of his “BITE” model of cult mind control. And sociologists have noted similarities in the way MAGA aligns with sacred symbols and captures followers’ imaginations.
In 2006, Trump said on The View that if Ivanka wasn’t his daughter, “perhaps I’d be dating her” Do righteous men say those things about their daughters?
The cult-like aspects of MAGA have raised concerns as some studies suggest MAGA Republicans may be more likely to justify or engage in political violence. As a result, there are worries about the movement’s impact on democratic institutions and norms as the movement has contributed to increased political and social polarization in the United States.

His sinful actions and deceitful behavior appear to only amplify the admiration his followers have for him. This paradoxical effect suggests that there’s something compelling about his persona that resonates deeply with them, making it all the more crucial to understand why they remain so captivated.
Trump emulates oral sex at 2024 rally
While MAGA exhibits many cult-like traits, it’s important to note that not all supporters display these characteristics to the same degree. The movement exists on a spectrum, with some followers more deeply invested than others. Additionally, the use of the term “cult” in political contexts remains controversial and subject to debate among scholars and commentators.
Is MAGA a cult?