Survey: 14% of Americans Embrace Christian Nationalism

14 percent of the United States population strongly embraces Christian nationalism, according to new data released by the Charles F. Kettering Foundation and Gallup. The figures come from an annual national survey of more than 23,000 adults conducted earlier this year.

Andrew Whitehead, a sociology professor at Indiana University Indianapolis, noted that the number of Americans identifying with this belief is slightly declining. However, he stated that religion remains a major component of political discourse for both candidates and voters as the 2026 midterm elections approach.

Christian nationalism is defined as the belief that Christianity defines the nation and that the government should take active steps to maintain that status. Whitehead explained that just over 16 percent of the population is at least sympathetic to the idea. This sentiment is more common among white Americans, where 31 percent are at least sympathetic, compared to 28 percent of women and a third of men.

Political affiliation strongly correlates with these views. More than half of Republicans, specifically 55 percent, either strongly embrace or sympathize with Christian nationalism. Whitehead observed that while fewer Americans strongly embrace the ideology, it has become more integrated into national political discussions than in previous years due to voices in federal government and media.

The survey found that Americans who embrace Christian nationalism view democracy differently than those who reject it. Respondents who strongly embrace the ideology currently say democracy is doing great. In contrast, very few Americans who reject the ideology believe democracy is doing well or even okay.

Whitehead said that the nearly 70 percent of respondents who resist or reject Christian nationalism are highly motivated to vote in this cycle. He stated these voters want Congress to check the power of the executive branch, a function he said has not occurred in the first two years of the Trump administration.

While Republicans are more likely to combine religion and politics, five Democrats on the ballot in Congressional races this cycle are clergy or in training to become clergy.