TITLE:
Religious Factors and Political Violence in the United States of America: Insights from Presidential Elections 2008-2020
AUTHORS:
Wei Wei
KEYWORDS:
Religious politicization, Political violence, U.S. elections, Evangelicals
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.11 No.11,
November
20,
2024
ABSTRACT: This study examines the changing role of religious factors in U.S. presidential elections from 2008 to 2020 and their impact on political violence. Through analysis of election data, policy shifts, and social events, this paper reveals the complex interplay between religion and political polarization. The research finds that religious voters’ political affiliations have become increasingly entrenched during this period, particularly the alliance between white evangelicals and the Republican Party. Meanwhile, the Democratic Party faces challenges in addressing secularization trends while maintaining support from religious voters. The strengthening of these religious-political alliances correlates with an increase in far-right violent activities. The article further analyzes the politicization of religious nationalist sentiments and their potential threat to social stability. Finally, the study discusses the possible implications of these trends for the 2024 election and offers policy recommendations to mitigate political polarization.