Religion plays a larger role in 2026 midterms despite slight drop in Christian nationalism

Religion is becoming a central issue for voters and candidates heading into the 2026 midterm elections. This shift is happening even as the number of Americans who strongly identify with Christian nationalism slowly declines.

Data from the Kettering Foundation and Gallup shows that about 14% of the U.S. population strongly embraces Christian nationalism. Another 2% are at least sympathetic to the idea. The movement holds the belief that Christianity defines the nation and the government should actively maintain that status.

Andrew Whitehead, a sociology professor at Indiana University Indianapolis, noted that the gap between personal belief and public discourse is widening. He stated that fewer Americans strongly embrace the ideology, but it has become a much larger part of national political discussions than in the past. Whitehead explained that figures in federal government and media continue to use this rhetoric to shape the national conversation.

The data reveals distinct divides based on gender, race, and party affiliation. Among white Americans, 31% are at least sympathetic to Christian nationalism. Men are slightly more likely to hold this view than women, with 33% of men and 28% of women expressing sympathy. Political party is the strongest predictor of support, as 55% of Republicans strongly embrace or sympathize with the movement.

Whitehead pointed out that how people feel about democracy depends heavily on their view of Christian nationalism. Those who strongly embrace it often say democracy is functioning well. In contrast, those who reject the movement are more likely to view the system as struggling or in decline. This difference in perception is creating a motivated voting bloc for the upcoming elections.

Whitehead said the nearly 70% of respondents who resist or reject Christian nationalism are highly motivated to vote in this cycle. He described these voters as wanting Congress to check the power of the executive branch. He noted that such checks have not been frequent during the first two years of the current administration.

While Republicans have long combined religion and politics, a new trend is visible among Democrats. Five Democrats are currently running in congressional races who are clergy or in training to become clergy. This marks a distinct presence of religious leaders on the ballot for this specific election cycle.