The term DezNat began as a hashtag, an abbreviation for Deseret Nationalism (Deseret, a term from the Book of Mormon, was first proposed as the name for Utah when it became a US territory). DezNat has become a movement and an ideology representing a fascist form of Mormonism, focusing on a goal of purging the faith of progressive Latter-day Saints, "apostates" and sinners.

The LGBTQ community are frequent targets of DezNat opprobrium. DezNats are often overtly racist and intolerant of other types of diversity.

As justification for their totalitarian views, DezNats point to the "teachings of the prophets," i.e. the "Q15", aka "the brethren" and former prophets. DezNat arguments rely on of distorted statements, taken out of context from any given leader's talk or article, or from scripture.

A point of pride with DezNat culture is that they are "unapologetic," or "unafraid," to speak up for "righteousness," and call out those who have kinder and tolerant viewpoints.

Since the LDS Church is institutionally and culturally very authority-minded, the DezNats are able to shut down conversation by appealing to the authority of the church's leadership, because they're simply "following the prophet." (Though the prophet has not given any indication that he is in need of their help.)

The leadership of the church has not addressed this group of members and their attempt to purge the church. Because of this, DezNats assume they have the blessing of the leadership.