As we wrap up 2024, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on what has been a pivotal year for our nation and me personally and this year brought its share of victories, challenges, and lessons—both in the world of politics and in our own lives. This year, from the highs of new beginnings to the sobering realities of cultural and political shifts, gave us much to process and even more to prepare for.

For me, 2024 was monumental. My wife and I are expecting our first child, we bought our first home, and we’ve grown in ways that only come through embracing change and challenge. These moments remind me of what truly matters: family, faith, and our shared commitment to make this world better for the next generation.

But beyond my journey, the political and cultural landscape has shifted dramatically. Let’s break it down and examine the key moments that defined 2024.

If 2024 will be remembered for anything, it’s the moment America collectively said, “Enough.” Over the past decade, wokeness has grown from a fringe ideology into a pervasive cultural force. Its proponents infiltrated institutions, corporate boardrooms, and even schools, pushing ideas that prioritized identity politics over merit and common sense.

This year, that movement faced a reckoning. The 2024 election was a resounding rejection of the empty platitudes and divisive policies championed by the left. Kamala Harris, whose campaign epitomized this hollow agenda, suffered a crushing defeat to Donald Trump. Her candidacy—built not on merit or substance, but on identity politics—served as a wake-up call for many Americans. Voters rejected the notion that leadership is defined by superficial qualities rather than competence and conviction.

As a result, the Democratic Party now finds itself in a period of soul-searching. Figures like Cenk Uygur of The Young Turks have even acknowledged the need for a shift away from identity-driven politics, calling for a “revolt” within the party. Whether the left can recover from this wake-up call remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Americans are tired of the charade.

While the GOP celebrated its victories, the party faced internal challenges as well. One of the most contentious issues this year was abortion. Trump’s hands-off approach—leaving the matter to the states—created a patchwork of laws and a great deal of ambiguity. For pro-lifers, like myself, this was disheartening. The passage of Prop 139 in Arizona, a measure that enshrines abortion rights, highlights the shifting landscape. While voters bear responsibility for their choices, the GOP’s lack of clarity and commitment on this issue is troubling. If the party continues to shy away from boldly defending life, it risks losing the moral high ground that has long been a cornerstone of its platform.

Another area where little progress was made is government spending. Despite GOP efforts in the House to rein in the budget, the Senate and the Biden administration pushed through massive spending bills, adding trillions to the national debt. It’s a familiar story: both parties fear touching the “sacred cows” of Medicare, Social Security, and other entitlement programs, which account for over 60% of federal spending. Until these issues are addressed, America’s financial future remains precarious.

One of the most significant cultural battles of 2024 was the growing pushback against transgender ideology, particularly its impact on children. States like Tennessee took bold steps by banning gender-affirming care for minors, and the issue is now headed to the Supreme Court. This marks a turning point in the culture war, as everyday Americans make it clear they won’t stand for the radicalization of their children. Thanks to voices like Matt Walsh and platforms like Libs of TikTok, the public is becoming more aware of the devastating consequences of these policies. While the fight is far from over, there’s hope that reason and morality will prevail.

Perhaps the most sobering trend of 2024 is the continued decline of Christianity in America. Church attendance is down, and more Americans identify as religiously unaffiliated. Here are some striking statistics:

• Approximately 64% of Americans still identify as Christian, down from 74% in 2016 and a staggering 91% in 1976.
• Weekly or nearly weekly church attendance has dropped to around 30%, a significant decline from 42% in 2000.
• Younger generations are far less likely to affiliate with Christianity or attend church services regularly, contributing to this decline.
• Meanwhile, those identifying as religiously unaffiliated (the "nones") have grown to 28% of the population, surpassing both Catholics (23%) and Evangelical Protestants (24%).

These trends paint a sobering picture of America’s shifting moral and spiritual landscape. The cultural influence of Christianity is waning, and its absence is felt in our values, our communities, and our politics. As Christians, we have a responsibility to reverse this trend. We must live out our faith boldly, invest in our local communities, and prioritize spreading the Gospel. The church must reclaim its role as a moral compass in society, standing firm against cultural compromise.

As we enter 2025, there’s much to be hopeful for and much work to be done. From addressing illegal immigration to ensuring fiscal responsibility, the challenges are great, but so are the opportunities. Trump’s return to office provides a chance to restore American strength and prosperity, but we must hold our leaders accountable and continue to advocate for policies that uphold our values.

On a personal note, I’m committed to growing this platform and reaching more people with principled, honest, and faith-driven commentary. Thank you to everyone who has supported Principled Politics this year. Your encouragement keeps me going, and I’m excited to continue this journey with you.

As we move forward, let us keep our eyes fixed on what truly matters. As Colossians 1:16-17 reminds us: “For by Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.”

Here’s to a new year filled with hope, purpose, and unwavering faith. Thank you for watching, reading, and staying principled.