Gainesboro's Battle: Christian Nationalism vs Local Values

Fri Feb 20 2026 02:30:04 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a seemingly quiet town in Tennessee, a housing development sparked a fierce debate on Christian nationalism, as newcomers push for conservative values while locals resist.

Gainesboro, Tennessee, finds itself at the center of a national debate over Christian nationalism after real estate developer Josh Abbotoy announced plans for an 'affinity-based community'. The development, marketed to conservative Christians, has attracted attention due to its ties with controversial figures promoting extreme views. Local residents, alarmed by these developments, are forming resistance groups to uphold their community values.

As Josh Abbotoy gazes out at lush green woods and pastureland nestled among Tennessee's Appalachian hills, he describes what he intends to build here: a neighborhood with dozens of residential lots, centered around a working farm and, crucially, a church.

Mr. Abbotoy is the founder of Ridgerunner, which aims to create a conservative community promoting 'faith, family, and freedom'. However, his project has led to a stir in this small town, especially after local figures with controversial views, including two self-described 'Christian nationalists', have moved in.

The resultant tensions have resulted in a notable backlash from local residents, who express concerns over the influence of such extreme ideologies. As community members rally to preserve their local identity, the conflict in Gainesboro reflects larger national struggles over values and beliefs in America.