Atheists and agnostics are a growing force for Democrats — GetReligion
The CES asks respondents if they have engaged in a number of political activities over the prior 12 months. Secular Americans’ political engagement comes into sharper focus when their behavior is compared with that of another group, one that is often considered very politically active — White evangelicals.
Over the past 40 years, the Religious Right has won many victories by organizing a loose coalition of theologically and politically conservative faith groups to vote, advocate and agitate. Overturning the Roe v. Wade decision, for example — which the Supreme Court did in June 2022 — was a long-cherished goal for Catholics, evangelicals and others who backed this cause, resulting in several states’ banning abortion in nearly all circumstances.
In 2020, 8% of White evangelicals attended a political meeting such as school board or city council, according to the CES. Yet the percentage is even higher for atheists — 11% — and agnostics — 10%. There was also a small difference in the data about putting up a political yard sign or bumper sticker. Among atheists, 27% had done so, compared with 21% of White evangelicals.
When it comes to political protests, there’s no doubt that secular Americans are more politically engaged.
CONTINUE READING: “Americans Who Aren’t Sure About God Are A Fast-Growing Force In Politics” by Ryan Burge at Religion Unplugged and, also, at The Conversation.
GRAPHICS: Analysis of CES 2020 data by Ryan Burge To download these images, CLICK HERE
FIRST IMAGE: Freedom From Religion Foundation billboard in Portland, Oregon, featured at FFRF website.
