Whitehead: Christian nationalism declines but drives 2026 midterm votes

A decline in the number of Americans who strongly identify with Christian nationalism is occurring, but the ideology continues to shape national political discourse ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Andrew Whitehead, a sociology professor at Indiana University Indianapolis and a research fellow for the Charles F. Kettering Foundation, presented new survey findings on this topic. He stated that religion remains a major factor for both candidates and voters.

Data from the Kettering Foundation and Gallup’s annual national survey of more than 23,000 adults indicates that around 14% of the U.S. population strongly embraces Christian nationalism. Just over 16% of respondents reported being at least sympathetic to the belief system. Whitehead defined Christian nationalism as the view that Christianity defines the nation and that the government should take active steps to maintain that status.

The survey revealed distinct demographic patterns regarding support for the ideology. Among white Americans, 31% are at least sympathetic to Christian nationalism. By gender, a third of men are at least sympathetic, while 28% of women share that view. Political affiliation shows a strong correlation with the belief system. More than half of Republicans, specifically 55%, strongly embrace or sympathize with Christian nationalism.

Whitehead noted that fewer Americans strongly embrace the ideology now, but it has become more integrated into national political discussions than in the past. He attributed this to Americans in positions of power in federal government and media who use Christian nationalist rhetoric. He said, "So fewer Americans embrace it strongly, but it is much more a part of our national political discussions than it ever used to be."

The survey also found that views on democracy vary significantly based on attitudes toward Christian nationalism. Whitehead explained that those who embrace the ideology are more worried about perceived threats to democracy. When asked about how democracy is functioning, Americans who strongly embrace Christian nationalism said it is doing great. In contrast, very few Americans who reject the ideology believe democracy is doing well or even okay.

The nearly 70% of respondents who resist or reject Christian nationalism are highly motivated to vote in this midterm cycle. Whitehead said these voters want Congress to check the power of the executive branch. He noted that this check has not been happening in the first two years of the current administration. He added, "Right now, they’re very motivated for Congress to check the power of the executive branch."

While it is more common for Republicans to combine religion and politics, the current election cycle features five Democrats in Congressional races who are clergy or in training to become clergy. This group adds to the mix of candidates seeking office in the upcoming November vote.