Interpreting the Transforming Geographic Mosaic of Religion in America: Its Impact on Congressional Representation and Increasing Political Polarization

Abstract

This chapter presents the changing geographic, political and religious dynamics within the U.S. Congress between 1959 and 2009. Since Congress members are directly elected, their voting behavior is the best reflection of democracy within the U.S. governmental system. Second, contributing factors that helped alter the religious make-up of the House and Senate are also addressed. These findings indicate that more religious diversity has increased political polarization which adds to a dysfunctional environment. Several questions are addressed. To what extent has religious composition within the four general groups (Catholics, Conservative Protestants, Mainline Protestants, and Jews) of the House and Senate changed since 1959? Does the change correspond to changes in the religiosity of the greater U.S. population? Are Democrats and Republicans representing those who reflect their own religious affiliation? How often and under what circumstances might religious affiliation trump party politics in voting behavior? What geographic trends are apparent by religious representation? The political strength of some religious votes may be enhanced by being ignored by lobbyists who may disregard morality issues because they can lack financial considerations that would affect the special interest groups that they represent.