On his second day back in the Oval Office, President Donald Trump signed a Presidential Order aimed at ending the federal government’s weaponization. Still, the FBI continues to target traditional Catholics, which contradicts both the law and his directives.
Following this, many Americans expressed their anger after declassified FBI notes from October 2022 surfaced. These notes revealed that the Richmond FBI had initiated investigations into “radical traditionalist” Catholics, who were incorrectly assumed to be linked to the “far-right white nationalist movement” due to their beliefs against abortion and LGBTQ rights.
“Why is the FBI snooping in my private chat with 43 Catholic men from Southern Louisiana?”
At that time, FBI Director Christopher Wray stated in July 2023 that the memo originated from “a single product with a single field office,” but later it was found that offices in Portland, Los Angeles, and Milwaukee also played roles in its development.
Although the Trump administration has worked to address anti-Christian biases within federal agencies, some traditionalist Catholics still seem to be monitored.
Blaze News spoke to Ross McKnight, who leads the La Nouvelle Vendée, a group of Catholics dedicated to resisting secularism and restoring Christian values in Louisiana.
McKnight shared that an FBI special agent, Beau Barker, had contacted him recently concerning certain “online” remarks made by group members.
Addressing Catholic Faith
McKnight explained that their group formed two years ago and consists of about 40 men who use a private Telegram chat to share their thoughts. He emphasized their commitment to traditional Catholic values without apology.
“It’s crucial for Catholic social action towards Christ’s kingdom,” he stated, mentioning that they gather to pray the Rosary, especially during events like Pride Parades.
He also remarked on their views regarding Islam, declaring it “heretical” and opposing it on grounds of historical contention with the Catholic Church. “Muslims have, historically, been viewed as antagonistic to the Church,” he pointed out.
Due to these beliefs, the group opposed a proposal to sell a Catholic Church in Buffalo, New York to a Muslim group looking to convert it into a mosque. McKnight shared several Telegram screenshots regarding discussions on this topic, highlighting their concerns.
McKnight clarified that he was careful to use the term “edited” but didn’t go into specifics about its meaning.
“We don’t hate Muslims. We oppose heresy. That’s what we’re fighting against, not individuals,” he elaborated. “I’m not violent,” he added.
FBI Involvement
McKnight recounted that on August 22, 2025, he received an unexpected call from Barker.
“Hey, I want to discuss what you posted online,” Barker told him, according to McKnight.
When McKnight pressed for details, Barker was vague, stating only, “I want to talk to you.” When asked if the meeting was spontaneous, Barker replied affirmatively but added, “If you don’t come to us, we will come to you.”
“We are not conducting surveillance based solely on First Amendment activities, including religious practices.”
A few days later, Barker called again, and when he wasn’t given answers, McKnight noted that Barker showed up with sheriff’s deputies at his house.
Once more, McKnight sought clarity but was met with silence. Barker departed without providing further explanation.
Consequently, McKnight hired an attorney and advised Barker not to communicate with him anymore.
Blaze News reached out to the Saint Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office to verify Barker’s visit, but they reported no records related to McKnight.
Speculations on Intentions
Given Barker’s reluctance to clarify his motivations for contacting McKnight, he has found himself speculating about the reasons. He isn’t even sure if the issue relates to their private Telegram group, as Barker allegedly mentioned concerns about something posted online.
Additionally, Barker reportedly contacted another LNV member, suggesting the FBI uncovered something that could be deemed threatening.
Ultimately, it became evident to McKnight that Barker’s inquiries likely didn’t breach any legal lines.
(“This indicates to me that we are still in the clear,” McKnight told Blaze News.)
To his knowledge, he and only a few others in La Nouvelle Vendée have been approached by federal agents.
McKnight remains in the dark about how the FBI became aware of their group or its discussions. He questioned if an agent had infiltrated their chats or if someone from within had reported them.
In response to questions, the FBI’s New Orleans office provided minimal commentary, highlighting ongoing challenges as they investigate law-abiding Catholics despite shifts in leadership.
“Why is the FBI spying on my private conversations with 43 Catholic men?” McKnight wondered.
“I simply don’t understand,” he added.
