The documentary “Politics, Religion and the Tea Party” explores the connections between the Tea Party movement, the Christian conservative movement, and Republican politics in the lead up to the 2012 presidential primaries. Through an investigation of the Iowa campaign trail, the film delves into the forces that have shaped the strategies of Republican candidates, and asks how politics, religion, and far-right conservatism have altered the political landscape of the United States.
One of the key takeaways from the film is the close relationship between the Tea Party movement and the Christian conservative movement. Both movements share a belief in limited government, fiscal conservatism, and a strict interpretation of the Constitution. However, the film also reveals the ways in which the Tea Party has attempted to distance itself from the Christian conservative movement in order to appeal to a broader base of voters.
Another important theme in the film is the role of money in shaping the political landscape. The Tea Party movement has been heavily funded by conservative donors and organizations, which has allowed it to wield significant influence within the Republican Party. This funding has also given rise to a new breed of Tea Party politicians, who are often more extreme and uncompromising than their mainstream Republican counterparts.
Overall, “Politics, Religion and the Tea Party” provides a fascinating glimpse into the forces that have reshaped American politics in recent years. Through its investigation of the Tea Party movement, the film sheds light on the ways in which religion, money, and ideology have come together to create a powerful political force that continues to shape the political landscape of the United States.