What responsibilities do Christians have when their nation faces political violence, cultural upheaval and threats to religious freedom? On this special edition of Dr. James Dobson’s Family Talk, Gary Bauer welcomes former Congresswoman Michele Bachmann for a wide-ranging conversation about the 25th anniversary of September 11, the assassination of Charlie Kirk, antisemitism, political extremism and the duty of Christians to remain engaged in American civic life. Remembering Charlie Kirk Bachmann reflects personally on Charlie Kirk, recalling meeting him when he was a young activist building Turning Point USA and seeking support for his vision. She describes his work ethic, Christian faith and growing influence in conservative politics, while discussing the national reaction to his assassination. The conversation focuses especially on the disturbing celebration of political violence by some Americans and the danger of allowing hatred of political opponents to become justification for violence. Bachmann argues that government has a fundamental responsibility to punish wrongdoing and preserve order. Why Christian Engagement Matters Bauer and Bachmann then turn to the 2026 midterm elections and the role of Christian voters. They argue that Christians cannot assume political and cultural battles will be fought by someone else and emphasize the importance of participating in elections, public debate and civic institutions. Bauer recalls Kirk warning Christian audiences that freedoms inherited from previous generations can be lost when citizens become disengaged. Bachmann expands on that concern, warning about ideological movements she believes are attempting to fundamentally reshape American government, religious liberty and the nation’s relationship with Israel. The discussion also addresses the growth of antisemitism and radical political movements in the United States and across the Western world. Bachmann urges Christians to understand the ideological forces shaping current politics and to recognize what she sees as a growing challenge to biblical values, constitutional government and religious freedom. Remembering September 11, 2001 On the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks, Bauer and Bachmann share where they were when America came under attack. Bachmann recalls being a Minnesota state senator attending an early-morning meeting when she first learned that a plane had struck the World Trade Center. After dropping her children at school, she spent much of the day watching the events unfold, praying and grieving before attending a community prayer service that evening. Bauer remembers driving toward Washington, D.C., and hearing the roar of the aircraft that moments later struck the Pentagon. He describes feeling…
