What is CREC and how does it shape Pete Hegseth’s religious rhetoric?

Hegseth is a member of the CREC, whose beliefs are rooted in a 20th-century movement called Christian Reconstructionism. The movement calls for the implementation of biblical law.

By: Samuel Perry, Baylor University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: April 6, 2026

Words: 1,449

Last Updated: 3 months, 2 weeks ago

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By Samuel Perry, Baylor University

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s conservative evangelical religious beliefs drew attention even before his confirmation hearings in January 2025. He is a member of the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches – CREC – whose beliefs have been influenced by a 20th-century movement called Christian Reconstructionism.

Many CREC leaders call for the implementation of biblical law and a theocratic state structured on Christian patriarchy. Theocratic states are ruled …

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