WASHINGTON — In a shocking development, a pastor from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's home church in Tennessee has publicly expressed a desire for the death of Texas Democratic state representative and U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico. The comments were made during a recent episode of the "Reformation Red Pill" podcast, hosted by Joshua Haymes, a former pastoral intern at the church.
Controversial Remarks on Podcast
Brooks Potteiger, an evangelical pastor described as Hegseth's closest spiritual adviser, joined Haymes in a heated discussion targeting Talarico. The Texas Democrat, who is also a Presbyterian seminarian, frequently discusses his Christian faith in his political campaigns. During the podcast, Potteiger and Haymes referred to Talarico using derogatory terms such as "a wolf," "a demon," "a snake," and "an enemy."
The conversation escalated when Haymes stated, "I pray that God kills him. Ultimately, that means killing his heart and raising him up to new life in Christ." Potteiger agreed, adding, "Right, right. We want him crucified with Christ." Haymes reiterated his wish for "death and new life" for Talarico, and suggested that if this were not within God's will, then stopping him "by any means necessary" would be acceptable.
Use of Imprecatory Psalms
Haymes further emphasized his stance by mentioning imprecatory psalms, which are biblical prayers that invoke God's judgment or destruction upon enemies. He said Talarico "is the kind of guy you pray imprecatory psalms against. And I mean that actually." Potteiger responded with a simple "Yep," confirming his support for this approach.
Connections to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth
The Defense Department, Talarico's campaign, and Potteiger's church, Pilgrim Hill Reformed Fellowship, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. However, the ties between Potteiger and Hegseth are well-documented. Hegseth has appeared on at least four episodes of the "Reformation Red Pill" podcast and has reportedly endorsed the show on multiple occasions.
In May of last year, Hegseth invited Potteiger to the Pentagon to lead a prayer service, where he praised former President Donald Trump as a divinely appointed leader. At that time, Hegseth expressed intentions to make such prayer services a monthly event within the government building.
Background on Potteiger's Church
Potteiger's church, located in a Nashville suburb, is part of the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches, an archconservative network. The church's governing documents stipulate that leadership roles are reserved for men, homosexuality is considered "unbiblical," and women should not serve in combat roles in the military.
James Talarico's Political Stance
It is not surprising that Talarico has drawn criticism from figures like Potteiger. At 36 years old, Talarico is a rising star in the Democratic Party and has clashed with former President Trump over his progressive politics, which are deeply rooted in his Christian faith. He argues that the religious right has distorted Christianity, focusing instead on Jesus' teachings about helping the vulnerable and welcoming strangers, rather than divisive issues like abortion.
This incident highlights the intense religious and political divisions in the current electoral landscape, particularly as the 2026 elections approach. The use of violent rhetoric in political discourse raises concerns about the boundaries of free speech and religious expression in public life.
