By Scott Powell
Monday, 03 November 2025 12:47 PM EST
The mainstream media and deep state would have us believe the American people are more divided now than in prior eras such as the Civil War or the civil rights/anti-Vietnam War period of the late 1960s and early 1970s. While there may be increased extremism and violence from the left, historical periods like the Civil War—rooted in moral opposition to slavery—and the Civil Rights movement, which championed racial equality, had clear ethical stakes. Today’s urban unrest lacks such a moral foundation, yet there is intense hostility toward a popularly elected president pursuing his campaign promises and constitutional duties.
President Trump’s agenda includes securing borders, deporting illegal immigrants, boosting manufacturing, ending unfair trade practices, achieving energy independence, closing government agencies, and protecting parental rights in schools. Many Americans support these policies, but some judges and local officials in sanctuary cities resist them. As of mid-2025, over 1,000 jurisdictions nationwide have declared themselves sanctuaries, defying federal immigration enforcement. Governors like Illinois’ JB Pritzker and Oregon’s Tina Kotek have openly refused to cooperate with ICE, citing sanctuary status.
Violence against ICE personnel has surged, with vehicular attacks and shootings rising by over 1,000% compared to the previous year. The Supremacy Clause of the Constitution mandates that federal law overrides state and local policies, yet some officials ignore this obligation. The erosion of moral and religious foundations since the mid-20th century—marked by secularization in schools, media, and law—has created a spiritual vacuum, enabling unchecked lawlessness, gang activity, and cultural decay.
As America approaches its 250th anniversary, the nation faces a critical juncture. A spiritual revival, akin to the Great Awakening that fueled the Revolutionary War, is needed to restore order and unity. Without such renewal, the country risks further division and instability.
Scott S. Powell is senior fellow at Discovery Institute and author of “Rediscovering America.”
