Study Examined American Christian Nationalism

The Public Religion Research Institute analyzed national views on the role of religion in government.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Religion — General

Bold flat-color editorial illustration showing two monolithic stone shapes diverging on a plain, representing ideological divides in national religious identity. — The Public Religion Research Institute reported that while support for Christian nationalism varies, rejecters constitute a majority in 46 U.S. states. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should government laws and national identity be based primarily on Christian values?

The Public Religion Research Institute released a study on Sept. 24, 2026, mapping American attitudes toward Christian nationalism. The report categorizes residents based on their agreement with faith, government, and national identity policies.

Why it matters

This research seeks to address the perception of universal support for Christian nationalism by quantifying opposition and skepticism across the nation. It highlights significant ideological divides between political parties regarding the intersection of faith and law.

In 2025, 27% of Americans rejected Christian nationalism, while 11% identified as adherents and 21% as sympathizers. Skeptics comprised 37% of the total population.

The players

Public Religion Research Institute

This is a nonpartisan research organization that specializes in studies at the intersection of religion, culture, and public policy.

The details

The report finds that rejecters of Christian nationalism constitute a majority in every state except Arkansas, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and West Virginia. While 82% of Democrats and 72% of independents identify as rejecters, 56% of Republicans identify as adherents or sympathizers.

The Public Religion Research Institute began tracking Christian nationalism in 2022.
The study analyzed data collected throughout 2025.
Findings were officially published on September 24, 2026.

Culture Shift

This study reflects an ongoing societal shift regarding the influence of religious identity on civic governance. By providing granular data, it captures the evolving tension between secular national identity and the integration of faith-based values into public policy.

Readers may see varying levels of discourse regarding faith in government depending on their state of residence. The data suggests that public opinion on this policy issue remains highly polarized and geographically distinct.

The takeaway

Understanding the divide over Christian nationalism helps clarify the current landscape of American political discourse. Citizens can use these findings to better navigate local conversations about the role of faith in their community and government.