The Tucker Carlson Show
Episode: Andrew Isker: Building a Christian Refuge to Fight Wokeness, Transgenderism, and Paganism
Release Date: March 31, 2025
Introduction
In this compelling episode of The Tucker Carlson Show, host Tucker Carlson engages in an in-depth conversation with Andrew Isker, a devoted Christian, father of six, and the driving force behind a significant real estate venture aimed at creating a Christian haven in Tennessee. The discussion delves into Andrew's motivations, the current socio-political climate affecting Christians, and his vision for fostering a community that upholds traditional Christian values.
Andrew Isker's Background and Motivation
[00:00-03:38]
Tucker Carlson opens the discussion by addressing Andrew's reputation, highlighting his law-abiding nature as a married man with six children. Carlson contrasts Andrew's approach with other controversial figures who challenge governmental systems, emphasizing that Andrew's actions are grounded in establishing a new community rather than confrontational activism.
Andrew Isker reveals his roots in Waseca, Minnesota, a town with deep familial ties spanning six generations. [03:03] He shares the emotional weight of leaving his hometown, where his ancestors are buried, due to unsettling changes in state legislation post the 2022 elections. The shift in Minnesota's political landscape, particularly under Governor Tim Walz, prompted Andrew to seek a safer environment for his family.
Andrew [04:45]: "After the 2022 election where the Democrats took control of the state senate, Tim Walz passed a full abortion allowance bill even up to birth... I just went there and said... God is not mocked."
Impact of Minnesota's Legislation on Christians
[03:38-08:20]
Andrew details Minnesota's controversial legislative changes, including expansive abortion laws and trans rights bills that threaten parental custody over children's welfare. He shares a personal anecdote about his son, a 12-year-old with autism, expressing fears that such laws could result in state intervention against his parental rights.
Andrew [05:20]: "My oldest son... they could be putting him in a dress and calling him a girl's name, and I would have no idea. Then when I oppose it, Boom. CPS comes and takes him away."
These policies, Andrew argues, create an environment where raising a family becomes untenable for devout Christians, driving them to leave their ancestral homes in search of more accommodating states.
Building a Christian Community in Tennessee
[08:20-25:00]
Transitioning to his initiative, Andrew introduces the Highland Rim Project under the Ridge Runner company, aimed at developing a Christian-centric community in Tennessee. Unlike typical suburban subdivisions characterized by impersonal layouts and amenities, this project emphasizes creating a close-knit, faith-based environment where families can thrive together.
Andrew [80:16]: "Imagine a community where there's a church at the center, and families from all over the country come together to build something beautiful, grounded in shared values."
This endeavor seeks to replicate the American small-town experience, fostering connections and mutual support among like-minded individuals who wish to escape the increasingly hostile environments of "blue states."
Critique of Modern Evangelicalism and Dispensationalism
[25:00-45:44]
A significant portion of the conversation critiques the evolution of evangelical Christianity, especially the adoption of dispensationalist theology. Andrew laments that contemporary evangelicals have shifted from a faith rooted in deep theological understanding to a more superficial, conversion-focused approach.
Andrew [41:49]: "If we just water it down a little bit more, make it more palatable to people, get more people in the seats, that's the metric of success."
He argues that this dilution has led to a disconnect between genuine Christian teachings and modern church practices, making it challenging to address critical issues like homosexuality and abortion without backlash. This, in turn, fosters an environment where Christians feel marginalized and misunderstood within their own communities.
Theological Discussions: Old vs. New Testament Perspectives
[45:44-75:17]
Andrew delves into the theological underpinnings of his beliefs, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the Bible's teachings without compromising on controversial issues. He contrasts the Old Testament's stringent laws with the New Testament's message of unity and redemption through Jesus Christ.
Andrew [52:11]: "Most atheists would agree that murder is wrong, but without a divine authority, they have no objective basis for that morality."
The discussion highlights the challenges atheists face in grounding their moral compass without religious tenets and underscores the perceived moral clarity that Christianity provides. Andrew also touches upon the historical context of dispensationalism, its origins, and its impact on contemporary Christian thought.
Predictions and Future Outlook
[75:17-89:56]
Looking ahead, Andrew predicts an intensification of the conflict between conservative Christians and progressive forces. He foresees increased persecution of Christians in liberal states and anticipates that initiatives like the Highland Rim Project will become essential for safeguarding Christian values and communities.
Andrew [86:50]: "Cross Joseph Evangelicals need to band together to leave places where they have no protection, where people like Tim Walz... They want to have a foil like the whole thing on Christian nationalism."
Andrew remains optimistic, believing that a resurgence of traditional evangelical Christianity will restore America's foundational values and ensure a prosperous future for its Christian communities.
Conclusion
The episode concludes with Tucker Carlson acknowledging the depth of Andrew's commitment and the emotional resilience required to embark on such a transformative project. Both parties express mutual respect, highlighting the importance of faith-driven initiatives in shaping America's socio-cultural landscape.
Andrew Isker's vision for a Christian refuge in Tennessee serves as a testament to the ongoing struggle between progressive policies and traditional values. Through thoughtful discourse and unwavering dedication, the episode sheds light on the broader implications of legislative changes on grassroots communities and the measures taken to preserve cultural and religious identities.
Notable Quotes:
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Andrew [05:20]: "My oldest son... they could be putting him in a dress and calling him a girl's name, and I would have no idea. Then when I oppose it, Boom. CPS comes and takes him away."
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Andrew [25:00]: "Most atheists would agree that murder is wrong, but without a divine authority, they have no objective basis for that morality."
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Andrew [80:16]: "Imagine a community where there's a church at the center, and families from all over the country come together to build something beautiful, grounded in shared values."
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Andrew [86:50]: "Cross Joseph Evangelicals need to band together to leave places where they have no protection, where people like Tim Walz... They want to have a foil like the whole thing on Christian nationalism."
This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of the conversation between Tucker Carlson and Andrew Isker, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the critical issues discussed and the envisioned solutions proposed by Andrew in response to the challenges faced by modern Christians.