What Americans really think about religion’s place in politics

A recent survey shows most Americans want to keep politics out of church services. Around two-thirds of people, including majorities from both political parties, say churches should avoid taking sides in political debates. The survey also found that nearly four in five Americans don’t want churches to endorse specific candidates during elections. At the same time, many Americans feel religion is becoming more influential in the country. About 37% of people surveyed say religion’s role is increasing—up 19 points from just two years ago. Half of those interviewed believe this growing influence is a positive change, while others see it as a problem. Surprisingly, more people think a decline in religion’s role would be bad rather than good. Not everyone agrees on whether religion’s influence is helpful. Three-quarters of Republicans view it positively, compared to less than two in five Democrats. White evangelical Protestants stand out as the group most likely to support religion’s growing role in society. The survey also explored opinions on making Christianity the official religion of the U. S. Only 17% of Americans are in favor of that idea, while 43% want the government to promote Christian moral values without declaring an official religion. A smaller group of 38% opposes both government-endorsed religion and Christian moral values in politics.

Attitudes toward "Christian nationalism" are mixed. Unfavorable views outnumber favorable ones by three to one, but most Americans still don’t have a strong opinion on the topic. Some experts argue that Christian nationalism is sometimes used to criticize patriotism or public displays of faith. Others point out that America’s founders weren’t all Christians, despite the country’s religious roots. The debate over religion’s place in government isn’t new. Some say the line between church and state is fading, while others believe churches are becoming more politically active. In the 1980s, religious conservatives began organizing more effectively in politics. One leader’s focus on appointing conservative judges helped win over Christian voters in a key election. Most Americans—52%—feel conservative Christians push their values too far in government and schools. A similar number say secular groups go too far in keeping religion out of public life. About one in five believe both sides have overstepped. A ministry leader argues that Christians shouldn’t separate their faith from their political views. He says churches should help people apply their beliefs to current issues, even if most Americans dislike political speeches from the pulpit. He also suggests that strong churches could reduce the government’s role in solving social problems.

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