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Not Today, Fascists: The Lies That Got Us Here, and the Truths That Will Reunite Us
INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
"The truth is worth fighting for. And if you want the truth, you want Jen Welch. Period. She’s relentless. She’s credible. She’s fearless.”—Don Lemon
From Jennifer Welch, the host of the wildly popular “I’ve Had It” podcast and a trusted voice in new media, comes a piercing, incisive, no-holds-barred take on the rising threat of theocracy in America and a fresh vision for how we can take back our country.
As a progressive atheist from a Bible Belt red state, Jennifer Welch has a unique perspective on the intersection of religion and politics in America. She has seen how the far right has used religion across denominations to coalesce power, and how their messaging, particularly the Evangelical prosperity gospel, reinforces economic inequality.
In Not Today, Fascists, Welch how America is moving not only toward fascism, but also theocracy; the current administration’s harmful platform and how it’s hurting everyday Americans; why the separation of church and state remains a fundamental principle of our country and the ways in which rogue actors are seeking to dismantle it; the role of Big Church and its economic and political sway over our government; how politicians on the left can create an effective platform and messaging on human decency, structural equality and a populist economics perspective to win elections
Not Today, Fascists will arm readers with the language and facts they need to discuss crucial politics issues, to win elections and to take back our country.
"The truth is worth fighting for. And if you want the truth, you want Jen Welch. Period. She’s relentless. She’s credible. She’s fearless.”—Don Lemon
From Jennifer Welch, the host of the wildly popular “I’ve Had It” podcast and a trusted voice in new media, comes a piercing, incisive, no-holds-barred take on the rising threat of theocracy in America and a fresh vision for how we can take back our country.
As a progressive atheist from a Bible Belt red state, Jennifer Welch has a unique perspective on the intersection of religion and politics in America. She has seen how the far right has used religion across denominations to coalesce power, and how their messaging, particularly the Evangelical prosperity gospel, reinforces economic inequality.
In Not Today, Fascists, Welch how America is moving not only toward fascism, but also theocracy; the current administration’s harmful platform and how it’s hurting everyday Americans; why the separation of church and state remains a fundamental principle of our country and the ways in which rogue actors are seeking to dismantle it; the role of Big Church and its economic and political sway over our government; how politicians on the left can create an effective platform and messaging on human decency, structural equality and a populist economics perspective to win elections
Not Today, Fascists will arm readers with the language and facts they need to discuss crucial politics issues, to win elections and to take back our country.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 6, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I am a regular listener and fan of Jennifer Welch’s podcast, “I’ve Had It”.
Along with her best friend Angie Sullivan, AKA Pumps, she is a voice of reason in chaotic times and manages to deliver her content with humor in her No BS dialogue around politics.
She speaks with unapologetic honesty, and that is part of why I love listening to her.
I always have a laugh when I hear her refer to Donald Trump and JD Vance as “Canks and Smoky Eyes”.
She is also a staunch ally of the LGBTQ community.
Although she is hilarious, the topics that she talks about are very serious.
I think that she recognizes that if we didn’t have laughter in these times we would all lose our sanity.
America is not a Chrisitan nation; it is a nation where you are free to be a Christian (or Jew, Muslim, Hindu, Agnostic, Atheist, etc).
I firmly believe that everyone should be able to practice any religion that they choose, or no religion at all.
What I don’t believe in is religion being part of the rule of law or members of the Supreme Court citing their religious beliefs as a reason for their ruling.
That being said, this book really isn’t about religion.
It’s about values and just doing what is right.
Toddlers grow at a rapid pace, and in the White House we have an 80-year-old with the mentality of a toddler who is cognitively declining at a rapid pace.
Each day he seems to become more manic, senile and petty.
I’m only speculating, but I could argue that he needs to be on both Ativan and Aricept.
That’s between him and his personal physician (he has a doctor whose full-time job is to manage his health, yet he imposed policies that prevent many Americans from being able to afford health insurance to get an annual physical or refills on medications that they need).
One thing that I found interesting is that in this book, Jennifer said “Trump will turn on oligarchs who fund his playtime…”.
He hasn’t turned on them yet, but a Russian oligarch spent six figures to fund an after party of Don Jr’s wedding in the Bahamas.
That amount of money could provide food assistance to a multitude of families and put them back onto health insurance after losing it due to the Big Hateful Bill.
For Don Jr, it was just a fire works show.
Donald Trump is purely transactional in every business and personal relationship; he lacks the ability to feel empathy or love.
Whether it’s for sex or a job in his cabinet, he makes a person perform and lets them go when they’re no longer useful (we don’t hear much about Kristi Noem and Pam Bondi anymore).
America is the wealthiest country in the world, and the only developed nation with significant medical bankruptcies.
I consider healthcare to be a RIGHT for everyone, not an elite privilege reserved to those who can afford it.
Jennifer shares the same progressive values that I have.
If you are reading this and live in the US, PLEASE vote in the upcoming midterms.
Your vote and your voice is more important than you may think.
Now is a good time to check and confirm that you’re registered to vote. You can do this online through your state’s website.
When Republicans lose the House (and possibly the Senate) in November, Donald Trump is going to go through every excuse in the book, claiming that noncitizens voted, deceased people voted and that there was fraud with mail-in voting because he will not be able to accept the fact that his party lost due to his own ineptitude as a President and extremely unlikable personality.
If we do not speak out and show up, we could lose our voices.
Many thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing, and especially Jennifer Welch for providing me with this excellent eARC via NetGalley.
Along with her best friend Angie Sullivan, AKA Pumps, she is a voice of reason in chaotic times and manages to deliver her content with humor in her No BS dialogue around politics.
She speaks with unapologetic honesty, and that is part of why I love listening to her.
I always have a laugh when I hear her refer to Donald Trump and JD Vance as “Canks and Smoky Eyes”.
She is also a staunch ally of the LGBTQ community.
Although she is hilarious, the topics that she talks about are very serious.
I think that she recognizes that if we didn’t have laughter in these times we would all lose our sanity.
America is not a Chrisitan nation; it is a nation where you are free to be a Christian (or Jew, Muslim, Hindu, Agnostic, Atheist, etc).
I firmly believe that everyone should be able to practice any religion that they choose, or no religion at all.
What I don’t believe in is religion being part of the rule of law or members of the Supreme Court citing their religious beliefs as a reason for their ruling.
That being said, this book really isn’t about religion.
It’s about values and just doing what is right.
Toddlers grow at a rapid pace, and in the White House we have an 80-year-old with the mentality of a toddler who is cognitively declining at a rapid pace.
Each day he seems to become more manic, senile and petty.
I’m only speculating, but I could argue that he needs to be on both Ativan and Aricept.
That’s between him and his personal physician (he has a doctor whose full-time job is to manage his health, yet he imposed policies that prevent many Americans from being able to afford health insurance to get an annual physical or refills on medications that they need).
One thing that I found interesting is that in this book, Jennifer said “Trump will turn on oligarchs who fund his playtime…”.
He hasn’t turned on them yet, but a Russian oligarch spent six figures to fund an after party of Don Jr’s wedding in the Bahamas.
That amount of money could provide food assistance to a multitude of families and put them back onto health insurance after losing it due to the Big Hateful Bill.
For Don Jr, it was just a fire works show.
Donald Trump is purely transactional in every business and personal relationship; he lacks the ability to feel empathy or love.
Whether it’s for sex or a job in his cabinet, he makes a person perform and lets them go when they’re no longer useful (we don’t hear much about Kristi Noem and Pam Bondi anymore).
America is the wealthiest country in the world, and the only developed nation with significant medical bankruptcies.
I consider healthcare to be a RIGHT for everyone, not an elite privilege reserved to those who can afford it.
Jennifer shares the same progressive values that I have.
If you are reading this and live in the US, PLEASE vote in the upcoming midterms.
Your vote and your voice is more important than you may think.
Now is a good time to check and confirm that you’re registered to vote. You can do this online through your state’s website.
When Republicans lose the House (and possibly the Senate) in November, Donald Trump is going to go through every excuse in the book, claiming that noncitizens voted, deceased people voted and that there was fraud with mail-in voting because he will not be able to accept the fact that his party lost due to his own ineptitude as a President and extremely unlikable personality.
If we do not speak out and show up, we could lose our voices.
Many thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing, and especially Jennifer Welch for providing me with this excellent eARC via NetGalley.
November 2, 2026
I listen to Jennifer Welch's podcast regularly. I am familiar with much of what she covers here, but I appreciate her advocacy.
July 18, 2026
As a podcaster, Jennifer has a lot to say but she backs up her claims with facts. She digs into fascism in America today and its ties to Christian nationalism and white nationalism, drawing on her own upbringing as an atheist in Oklahoma, where her family stood apart from the community around them. She calls out the failures of both parties and a government that's let its people down, touching on lingering election fraud claims, January 6th, Trump's role in inciting it, and even Epstein. It's part warning too, pointing to signs from the current administration that seem to be pushing toward religious governance. But she ends on hope, if the American people push back against MAGA's exploitation of this country with a stronger backbone, we can make human rights the priority again, referencing Mamdani’s recent victory as an example of that. It's a message that could resonate with working class Americans who feel like they "didn't vote for this" and are holding out for something better in the midterms or in 2028. It isn’t a radicle message, but rather one that admits both sides are at fault and ultimately pushes for a better Democratic Party, one that’s honest and has conviction. It was a super interesting read if you’re into progressive politics in America and I would recommend!
October 3, 2026
As a longtime fan of Jennifer Welch, I went into Not Today, Fascists knowing exactly what to expect: a strong personality, sharp wit, and plenty of unapologetic opinions. Having previously read a book she co-authored with her podcast co-host Angie Sullivan; I was already familiar with her direct style and willingness to challenge conventional thinking. In this book, Welch remains true to herself, delivering a blunt, sarcastic, and passionate examination of fascism, Christian nationalism, and the current state of American politics. Her voice is unmistakable, and whether readers agree with her or not, there is no denying that she writes with conviction and purpose.
What I appreciated most was Welch’s refusal to reduce complex political issues into a simple partisan argument. While she is highly critical of Republican politics and the rise of authoritarian tendencies, she is equally willing to challenge Democrats for their shortcomings, missed opportunities, and reluctance to fight for the values they claim to support. As someone who often shares those frustrations, I found her critiques both refreshing and thought-provoking. At times, I cringed at some of her observations, not because I disagreed with them, but because I worried about how internal divisions could be used to deepen political polarization. Still, I think that discomfort is part of the book’s strength. Welch encourages readers to think critically, question assumptions, and hold everyone accountable, including those they generally support.
Not Today, Fascists is insightful, thought-provoking, and unmistakably Jennifer Welch. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in politics, democracy, and the challenges facing America today. Even readers who disagree with some of her conclusions will likely finish the book with plenty to consider long after the final page.
A huge thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the advance copy. It was a treat to read!
What I appreciated most was Welch’s refusal to reduce complex political issues into a simple partisan argument. While she is highly critical of Republican politics and the rise of authoritarian tendencies, she is equally willing to challenge Democrats for their shortcomings, missed opportunities, and reluctance to fight for the values they claim to support. As someone who often shares those frustrations, I found her critiques both refreshing and thought-provoking. At times, I cringed at some of her observations, not because I disagreed with them, but because I worried about how internal divisions could be used to deepen political polarization. Still, I think that discomfort is part of the book’s strength. Welch encourages readers to think critically, question assumptions, and hold everyone accountable, including those they generally support.
Not Today, Fascists is insightful, thought-provoking, and unmistakably Jennifer Welch. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in politics, democracy, and the challenges facing America today. Even readers who disagree with some of her conclusions will likely finish the book with plenty to consider long after the final page.
A huge thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the advance copy. It was a treat to read!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Hanover Square Press and NetGalley for the advance reader’s proofs in exchange for my honest opinion.
If you know Welch from her podcast with Angie “Pumps” Sullivan, called “I’ve Had It”, then you already know what this book will be like. If you don’t know, please go listen to an episode (or twelve, or fifty, or just subscribe to it).
Here Welch continues her signature fuck-you commentary, holding no punches in her critiques of the United States political system, and sparing neither side of the floor. She is careful to position her commentary, flagging that it is accurate up to late-Spring 2026 (when the final version went to the publisher). This is important for multiple reasons: (1) some names and job titles of federal officials have, obviously, changed between then and now, and (2) it helps position the book so it can be used as a marker in time rather than just a “right here and now” book.
From a critical lens, I fear this book will have a much smaller audience than it needs to have. This is primarily because a lot of the individuals who need a kick in the pants shy away from conflict, and this book meets them head on. However, judging from how carefully she’s researched and written the book, I think this was intentional. Still, it’s a factor to consider when creating a truthful review.
Oh, and before you leave this review thinking it’s just another historical politics, or politics of the now, type of book, it’s not. Her aim is to build towards the third section where she lays out and advocates for a comprehensive plan to move forward.
If you know Welch from her podcast with Angie “Pumps” Sullivan, called “I’ve Had It”, then you already know what this book will be like. If you don’t know, please go listen to an episode (or twelve, or fifty, or just subscribe to it).
Here Welch continues her signature fuck-you commentary, holding no punches in her critiques of the United States political system, and sparing neither side of the floor. She is careful to position her commentary, flagging that it is accurate up to late-Spring 2026 (when the final version went to the publisher). This is important for multiple reasons: (1) some names and job titles of federal officials have, obviously, changed between then and now, and (2) it helps position the book so it can be used as a marker in time rather than just a “right here and now” book.
From a critical lens, I fear this book will have a much smaller audience than it needs to have. This is primarily because a lot of the individuals who need a kick in the pants shy away from conflict, and this book meets them head on. However, judging from how carefully she’s researched and written the book, I think this was intentional. Still, it’s a factor to consider when creating a truthful review.
Oh, and before you leave this review thinking it’s just another historical politics, or politics of the now, type of book, it’s not. Her aim is to build towards the third section where she lays out and advocates for a comprehensive plan to move forward.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing for the ARC of Not Today, Fascists in exchange for my little review!
For the average disciple of Jennifer Welch Not Today, Fascists plays like a greatest hits album, capturing Welch’s signature wit, blunt force honesty, and an unfiltered interpretation of modern politics. For the uninitiated, this page-turner will be a biting, hilarious foray into the type of intelligent and dynamic commentary Welch regularly turns in to both of her hit weekly podcasts. I’ve Had It and IHIP News launched in 2022 and 2024, respectively, and have been a transformative beacon for change ever since. Welch, along with her bestie Angie “Pumps” Sullivan, is here to judge, ridicule, and call it like it is. What started as two white women complaining has transformed into… two white women complaining about politics. In her new book, Welch will cover it all – the Epstein scandal, dark money in politics, the many failures of you-know-who and his administration, and how all of it impacts regular, working people just trying to get by. Dropping just before midterms, Not Today, Fascists is a playbook for the future as much as it is a cautionary tale for the last decade.
In 2026, we need fighters. We need people who speak the truth and aren’t afraid to hold our leaders accountable. We know Hakeem Jeffries and Chuck Schumer certainly aren’t going to do it, but we’ve got women like Welch and Sullivan at the forefront now. And they’ve got a lot to say. Buckle up.
For the average disciple of Jennifer Welch Not Today, Fascists plays like a greatest hits album, capturing Welch’s signature wit, blunt force honesty, and an unfiltered interpretation of modern politics. For the uninitiated, this page-turner will be a biting, hilarious foray into the type of intelligent and dynamic commentary Welch regularly turns in to both of her hit weekly podcasts. I’ve Had It and IHIP News launched in 2022 and 2024, respectively, and have been a transformative beacon for change ever since. Welch, along with her bestie Angie “Pumps” Sullivan, is here to judge, ridicule, and call it like it is. What started as two white women complaining has transformed into… two white women complaining about politics. In her new book, Welch will cover it all – the Epstein scandal, dark money in politics, the many failures of you-know-who and his administration, and how all of it impacts regular, working people just trying to get by. Dropping just before midterms, Not Today, Fascists is a playbook for the future as much as it is a cautionary tale for the last decade.
In 2026, we need fighters. We need people who speak the truth and aren’t afraid to hold our leaders accountable. We know Hakeem Jeffries and Chuck Schumer certainly aren’t going to do it, but we’ve got women like Welch and Sullivan at the forefront now. And they’ve got a lot to say. Buckle up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I’ve been a longtime fan of Jennifer Welch and her podcasts, so I was already familiar with a lot of her ideology and the topics she talks about in this book. Her experience as an atheist Democrat living in a very red state like Oklahoma has shaped a lot of her worldview, and I’ve always really enjoyed listening to her talk about politics and social issues. So naturally, I was pretty excited when I found out she was writing a book.
The book expands on a lot of the things I’ve heard Jennifer (and her cohost Pumps) talk about over the years, but the book goes much more in depth. She has some strong opinions, but one of the things I appreciate about her is that she can back them up with facts. And while she is very progressive, she’s not afraid to call out the failures of both political parties and take a hard look at how all sides have contributed to getting to where we are right now as a country.
There were definitely parts that challenged me, and other parts that reassured me in things I already believe. I really appreciated how intentional and direct this book was. Jennifer doesn’t sugarcoat things and I think that’s exactly what makes it so impactful. Given the moment we’re in as a country, I think this is an especially important book to read.
If you’re already a fan of Jennifer or her podcasts, you’ll probably really enjoy this. And if you’re not…you may not agree with everything she has to say, but I think there’s still a lot here worth thinking about. For being a book about politics, she blends in the perfect amount of humor and personal experience to make it palatable.
Thank you to Hanover Square Press and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
The book expands on a lot of the things I’ve heard Jennifer (and her cohost Pumps) talk about over the years, but the book goes much more in depth. She has some strong opinions, but one of the things I appreciate about her is that she can back them up with facts. And while she is very progressive, she’s not afraid to call out the failures of both political parties and take a hard look at how all sides have contributed to getting to where we are right now as a country.
There were definitely parts that challenged me, and other parts that reassured me in things I already believe. I really appreciated how intentional and direct this book was. Jennifer doesn’t sugarcoat things and I think that’s exactly what makes it so impactful. Given the moment we’re in as a country, I think this is an especially important book to read.
If you’re already a fan of Jennifer or her podcasts, you’ll probably really enjoy this. And if you’re not…you may not agree with everything she has to say, but I think there’s still a lot here worth thinking about. For being a book about politics, she blends in the perfect amount of humor and personal experience to make it palatable.
Thank you to Hanover Square Press and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 1, 2026
In Jennifer Welch We Trust
October 8, 2026
**Not Today, Fascists** by Jennifer Welch
★★★★★
Jennifer Welch isn’t here to make you comfortable. She's here to make you pay attention.
Don Lemon calls her "relentless... credible... fearless" in the foreword, and that's the right set of words. This book is loud, sharp, and angry in the best way, the kind of anger that comes from watching people you love get hurt by things they were told were holy.
Welch is a progressive atheist from a Bible Belt red state, which means she grew up inside the thing she's now taking apart. She doesn't theorize about the marriage of religion and politics from a safe distance. She knows what the pews sound like and what the pulpit sells. That's why her read on the prosperity gospel hits so hard. She shows how a theology that promises you'll be rich if you're faithful gets bent into a justification for economic cruelty, and how that same machine has been wired into the government. She calls it the "Big Church," and once you see its reach, you can't unsee it.
The core warning is blunt: this country isn't just sliding toward fascism. It's racing toward theocracy, and the people doing the pushing know exactly what they're doing. I think she's right to say it that plainly. Too many of us have been hedging for a decade.
What keeps this from being just another doom book is that Welch swings back. She goes after Democrats who keep playing defense with careful, bloodless talk, and she argues for a populist economic message built on decency and structural fairness. You may not agree with every prescription, but you'll finish the book wanting to argue about it.
It's also a toolbox. The facts, the history, and the language she gives you are things you can use the next time someone at Thanksgiving tells you the Founders wanted a Christian nation.
If you're tired, scared, or both, this book is a jolt of clarity and courage. Read it, underline it, and then go do something with it.
Five stars. No apologies.
★★★★★
Jennifer Welch isn’t here to make you comfortable. She's here to make you pay attention.
Don Lemon calls her "relentless... credible... fearless" in the foreword, and that's the right set of words. This book is loud, sharp, and angry in the best way, the kind of anger that comes from watching people you love get hurt by things they were told were holy.
Welch is a progressive atheist from a Bible Belt red state, which means she grew up inside the thing she's now taking apart. She doesn't theorize about the marriage of religion and politics from a safe distance. She knows what the pews sound like and what the pulpit sells. That's why her read on the prosperity gospel hits so hard. She shows how a theology that promises you'll be rich if you're faithful gets bent into a justification for economic cruelty, and how that same machine has been wired into the government. She calls it the "Big Church," and once you see its reach, you can't unsee it.
The core warning is blunt: this country isn't just sliding toward fascism. It's racing toward theocracy, and the people doing the pushing know exactly what they're doing. I think she's right to say it that plainly. Too many of us have been hedging for a decade.
What keeps this from being just another doom book is that Welch swings back. She goes after Democrats who keep playing defense with careful, bloodless talk, and she argues for a populist economic message built on decency and structural fairness. You may not agree with every prescription, but you'll finish the book wanting to argue about it.
It's also a toolbox. The facts, the history, and the language she gives you are things you can use the next time someone at Thanksgiving tells you the Founders wanted a Christian nation.
If you're tired, scared, or both, this book is a jolt of clarity and courage. Read it, underline it, and then go do something with it.
Five stars. No apologies.
November 4, 2026
I rarely miss an episode of I’ve Had It because, frankly, a lot of us have.
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing and Hanover Square Press for the advance copy of Not Today, Fascists: The Lies That Got Us Here, and the Truths That Will Reunite Us by Jennifer Welch.
Welch brings the same bluntness I love on the podcast to a book about religion, political power, and the separation of church and state. One of the things I admire most about her is that she’s willing to make people uncomfortable, especially when she’s speaking up for people who are too often dismissed or left out of the conversation. That’s what made this feel like both a warning and a rallying cry to pay attention to what’s happening right in front of us and be willing to say something about it.
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing and Hanover Square Press for the advance copy of Not Today, Fascists: The Lies That Got Us Here, and the Truths That Will Reunite Us by Jennifer Welch.
Welch brings the same bluntness I love on the podcast to a book about religion, political power, and the separation of church and state. One of the things I admire most about her is that she’s willing to make people uncomfortable, especially when she’s speaking up for people who are too often dismissed or left out of the conversation. That’s what made this feel like both a warning and a rallying cry to pay attention to what’s happening right in front of us and be willing to say something about it.
September 5, 2026
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5 🌟
A humorous and approachable dive into the slow creep of overlapping Christian Evangelicalism & American right-wing conservatism, as well as an lite introduction to leftist politics as a way forward.
This book does not read like an academic text, nor does it intend to (if you know Jennifer from her podcast or media appearances, you will undoubtedly hear her voice in your head while reading). It is a self-described ‘road map to progressivism that understands the reality of a red state life,’ and Welch uses personal anecdotes from her life and growing up the only non-Christian in the Oklahoma Bible Belt south — trying to fit in, work, make friends, & raise a family — to illuminate just how entwined Evangelical Christianity & American Conservatism has become. And worse, how it has crept its way from fringe rural communities to Capitol Hill.
She gives a rundown of aspects of Christianity — specifically Protestant Evangelicalism — that are harnessed and weaponized by the right; things like the prosperity bible, the idea that wealth distribution is the will of God, and suffering just means you do not have God’s Favor (a favorite of megachurch pastors). She points out the authoritarian through line of church, home, and state in Evangelicalism; a person primed in a religion that is authoritarian in nature, that also goes home to a family with an authoritarian structure, is undoubtedly susceptible to following authoritarian politics. Republicans know exactly how to exploit this, and have for decades, while Democrats stand idly by.
Welch emphasizes the importance of having a strong opposition party that — crazy idea — is actually motivated in preventing a Christo-facist authoritarian state from taking hold in the US. A party that actually aims to combat lies that misinform and take advantage of some of our most vulnerable populations.
She talks about Americans, including herself, that feel left behind as a blue dot in a red state —“marginalized by electoral math”— watching establishment Democrats comfortably trot from blue city to blue city during election season, selling themselves the anti-republican that will “stop corruption”, but who once elected, does nothing but collect checks as a controlled opposition. Always late to the field, on defense and never offense. This, she says, does something worse than radicalization: it creates apathy.
Bars.
While Jennifer may be known for her sharp-tongue critiques of right-wing fascist politicians & bad actors, there is no scolding of “dear reader”, as she refers to the audience, wherever they may be on the political spectrum. She acknowledges that looking in the mirror and examining ones’ prejudices isn’t by any means fun, but it is how you learn to become better and fight for a more equitable society. She admits to her own lazy ignorance on issues like Palestine rooted in Islamophobia, even when she was being what she thought was a “good” liberal.
Welch’s goal with this book is not to shame or say ‘I told you so’, but rather to encourage conversations with one another, and to unite behind truths that will allow us to build an honest movement. She asserts that the Democrats current strategy of polite politics, focused on “electability” and compromise, is a losing game: progressive, grassroots politics are not a liability, they are the only way out.
This was an easy, fun read — I adore Jennifer and would love a full memoir from her AND Pumps about her deconstruction next :p
4.5 🌟
A humorous and approachable dive into the slow creep of overlapping Christian Evangelicalism & American right-wing conservatism, as well as an lite introduction to leftist politics as a way forward.
This book does not read like an academic text, nor does it intend to (if you know Jennifer from her podcast or media appearances, you will undoubtedly hear her voice in your head while reading). It is a self-described ‘road map to progressivism that understands the reality of a red state life,’ and Welch uses personal anecdotes from her life and growing up the only non-Christian in the Oklahoma Bible Belt south — trying to fit in, work, make friends, & raise a family — to illuminate just how entwined Evangelical Christianity & American Conservatism has become. And worse, how it has crept its way from fringe rural communities to Capitol Hill.
She gives a rundown of aspects of Christianity — specifically Protestant Evangelicalism — that are harnessed and weaponized by the right; things like the prosperity bible, the idea that wealth distribution is the will of God, and suffering just means you do not have God’s Favor (a favorite of megachurch pastors). She points out the authoritarian through line of church, home, and state in Evangelicalism; a person primed in a religion that is authoritarian in nature, that also goes home to a family with an authoritarian structure, is undoubtedly susceptible to following authoritarian politics. Republicans know exactly how to exploit this, and have for decades, while Democrats stand idly by.
Welch emphasizes the importance of having a strong opposition party that — crazy idea — is actually motivated in preventing a Christo-facist authoritarian state from taking hold in the US. A party that actually aims to combat lies that misinform and take advantage of some of our most vulnerable populations.
She talks about Americans, including herself, that feel left behind as a blue dot in a red state —“marginalized by electoral math”— watching establishment Democrats comfortably trot from blue city to blue city during election season, selling themselves the anti-republican that will “stop corruption”, but who once elected, does nothing but collect checks as a controlled opposition. Always late to the field, on defense and never offense. This, she says, does something worse than radicalization: it creates apathy.
Bars.
While Jennifer may be known for her sharp-tongue critiques of right-wing fascist politicians & bad actors, there is no scolding of “dear reader”, as she refers to the audience, wherever they may be on the political spectrum. She acknowledges that looking in the mirror and examining ones’ prejudices isn’t by any means fun, but it is how you learn to become better and fight for a more equitable society. She admits to her own lazy ignorance on issues like Palestine rooted in Islamophobia, even when she was being what she thought was a “good” liberal.
Welch’s goal with this book is not to shame or say ‘I told you so’, but rather to encourage conversations with one another, and to unite behind truths that will allow us to build an honest movement. She asserts that the Democrats current strategy of polite politics, focused on “electability” and compromise, is a losing game: progressive, grassroots politics are not a liability, they are the only way out.
This was an easy, fun read — I adore Jennifer and would love a full memoir from her AND Pumps about her deconstruction next :p
October 26, 2026
An infuriating but important read. Wanted to stop many times but finding it more and more critical to fundamentally understand how we got here as a country - and how we can turn it around.
As I feel I lean more left with every passing day, this quote reminded me that it shouldn’t be considered extreme to care about society:
“The progressive platform I champion isn’t radical. It’s a basic set of principles that prioritize making people’s lives better. I want people with cancer to be able to afford their treatments instead of waiting to die. I want my children to be safe at school from the everyday gun violence of America. I want my country to be free of the Christofacist forces who lift their hands in prayer and sell out human dignity at every turn.”
Next book will need to be a palate cleanser.
As I feel I lean more left with every passing day, this quote reminded me that it shouldn’t be considered extreme to care about society:
“The progressive platform I champion isn’t radical. It’s a basic set of principles that prioritize making people’s lives better. I want people with cancer to be able to afford their treatments instead of waiting to die. I want my children to be safe at school from the everyday gun violence of America. I want my country to be free of the Christofacist forces who lift their hands in prayer and sell out human dignity at every turn.”
Next book will need to be a palate cleanser.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I might be a bit biased as I have been a fan of Jennifer Welch for a while but I enjoyed the hell out of this book. Welch's style is so personal and easy to sort of fall into. Her upbringing reminded me so much of my own that I felt a real connection to the points she made throughout the book. I know some people don't want to read about current events and I get that but do yourself a favor and read this.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoyed this one! I wasn't familiar with Welch - I don't listen to podcasts and avoid political discourse these days like it was the plague because generally speaking so much of it is just yelling and insults rather than actual back-and-forth. Don't get me wrong - there's a fair bit of yelling and insults in this book, but there's *also* actual thoughtful discussion and the finger-pointing is leveled all around, which I think is something that's long overdue.
There are not many fair-play advocates in the current political environment, willing to call out their own team as well as the opposition, and that's unfortunate because I think at the moment there's a lot to criticize on all sides. Welch addresses this head on, and that's one of the aspects of the book I found most refreshing. It made me angry but also felt like it was generating purposeful anger rather than rage-baiting me as a reader. I found that refreshing and encouraging. We need more of that...
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my obligation-free review copy.
There are not many fair-play advocates in the current political environment, willing to call out their own team as well as the opposition, and that's unfortunate because I think at the moment there's a lot to criticize on all sides. Welch addresses this head on, and that's one of the aspects of the book I found most refreshing. It made me angry but also felt like it was generating purposeful anger rather than rage-baiting me as a reader. I found that refreshing and encouraging. We need more of that...
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my obligation-free review copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
nothing that will be new to those already tapped in but a perfect book to give to your white east coast democrat mom to introduce her to leftist politics
October 24, 2026
A great insight into today's political landscape and what can be done moving forward. If you're a frequent viewer of her YouTube channel and/or a listener of the Ihip podcast, then you may not get as much out of this as other people... But it's still a great refresher.
October 22, 2026
my close personal friend jennifer can do no wrong. really well done and critically important for our times—perfectly explained my angst towards centrists.
October 19, 2026
would follow jennifer welch into battle
October 19, 2026
I love my queen Mizz Welch <3 and all the work she puts into the progressive movement and independent media.
October 11, 2026
🎧 calling it like it is! should be required reading for everyone before voting in the midterms
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If you follow Jennifer Welch's podcast, "I've Had It!," then you've essentially heard most of what is in this book. But here, it's all in one place.
In this book, Welch traces history, arriving at the realization of how we got here (Trumpism and MAGA - aka fascism). Welch is honest, forthright, opinionated (to me, in a good way), progressive, and sometimes very funny and foul-mouthed. She places blame not only on MAGA and Trump, which she sees as outshoots of where we've been headed for a long time, but also on the Democrats -- especially the spineless ones and those who insist on taking big money from PACS.
I admire Welch because she doesn't pull any punches, she speaks what many of us believe to be the truth about government. She's not afraid to criticize big names in high places, and she's incredibly well documented in terms of sources. Although I agree with her politics and some readers may not, you cannot argue with a lot of what she says because her facts are on the money, especially the historical ones. Raised in RED, Christian Nationalist Oklahoma, Welch saw the mentality up close and personal. She knows about what she speaks.
Great book, especially for those who want to know more about our political situation. Thanks to #Netgalley for the ARC!
In this book, Welch traces history, arriving at the realization of how we got here (Trumpism and MAGA - aka fascism). Welch is honest, forthright, opinionated (to me, in a good way), progressive, and sometimes very funny and foul-mouthed. She places blame not only on MAGA and Trump, which she sees as outshoots of where we've been headed for a long time, but also on the Democrats -- especially the spineless ones and those who insist on taking big money from PACS.
I admire Welch because she doesn't pull any punches, she speaks what many of us believe to be the truth about government. She's not afraid to criticize big names in high places, and she's incredibly well documented in terms of sources. Although I agree with her politics and some readers may not, you cannot argue with a lot of what she says because her facts are on the money, especially the historical ones. Raised in RED, Christian Nationalist Oklahoma, Welch saw the mentality up close and personal. She knows about what she speaks.
Great book, especially for those who want to know more about our political situation. Thanks to #Netgalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I am a fan of her podcast, but I didn't know how that would translate to the page. This book has Jennifer's sharp and hilarious voice and perspective. This is a great gift for anyone who is a recovering liberal or who is leftist-curious. This book felt like a buoy in the storm. I am so glad we have voices like Jennifer and her podcast out there fighting the good fight!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
October 6, 2026
*Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this free ARC in exchange for an honest review. Pub date: October 6, 2026
A depressing look at how we got here and how billionaires and corporate America have exploited everyday Americans and blamed the opposing parties. A look at the current Democratic Party, how they have terrible marketing and accountability, and are basically Republicans with no teeth. R propaganda is so successful—R’s are scared of “socialism” because the news tells them to be. They’re afraid of books, drag queens, gays, trans people, immigrants, non-Christians, abortions, blue states, and liberals…but they’re not scared about gun violence, school shootings, maternal health, sexual assault, human trafficking, pedophilia, or the general health of our nation. R’s are the party of crime, disorder, higher prices, and crashing the economy. Dems need to start playing “fuck you” politics.
A depressing look at how we got here and how billionaires and corporate America have exploited everyday Americans and blamed the opposing parties. A look at the current Democratic Party, how they have terrible marketing and accountability, and are basically Republicans with no teeth. R propaganda is so successful—R’s are scared of “socialism” because the news tells them to be. They’re afraid of books, drag queens, gays, trans people, immigrants, non-Christians, abortions, blue states, and liberals…but they’re not scared about gun violence, school shootings, maternal health, sexual assault, human trafficking, pedophilia, or the general health of our nation. R’s are the party of crime, disorder, higher prices, and crashing the economy. Dems need to start playing “fuck you” politics.
October 26, 2026
This is an instruction manual and how to beat the right-wingers at their own game. If Democrats want to be able to end Republican control across the 50 states, they should listen to the suggestions of Jennifer Welch.
This book is a political commentary with some levity. It’s an evisceration of right-wing idiocy, and an autopsy of the left’s corporate dependence.
Read this book and join the resistance again an ever-growing Christofascist state.
This book is a political commentary with some levity. It’s an evisceration of right-wing idiocy, and an autopsy of the left’s corporate dependence.
Read this book and join the resistance again an ever-growing Christofascist state.
October 22, 2026
I need all the info in this book shouted at the American public !!! Religion in American politics is ick! Def a good book, not particularly new info or overly hot takes, but it was educational. Some parts were evidence based, others were very anecdotal. And all of it was the perspective of a progressive white woman for an audience of progressive white women.
October 29, 2026
As an Independent in a red state I am aware of the far left and yes the far right. There’s nothing new in this book, but a reminder America was created to not be a fascist country. There’s nothing at all in Jesus teaching in Christian Nationalism…Nothing. So read this or hit your hard headed friend/family in the head with it.
October 11, 2026
Clear explanation of how we got to this point politically and steps to change course before it’s too late.
October 9, 2026
Just started reading this. Almost finished. Jennifer makes a lot of valid points and and a better understanding of what is going on today.
October 9, 2026
A look at how we got here, how we must proceed in the future, and the expectations we must set for future leadership if we are to maintain a country of worth. Essential reading for every American.
October 8, 2026
Definitely a must-read not only for IHIP fans but for anyone who wants to know what’s actually going on and what to do about it.
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