One of the most significant findings of John Green’s new study comparing political views by faith is that even the most religious of the groups care more about economics than social issues this year.
In 2004, only 18.2% of evangelical listed the economy as the “top priority.” This year, 45.6% do.
The shift is even true among the most religious of the voters, what Green calls the “traditionalists,” a group that includes those who go to church most often:
Evangelical traditionalists who listed economy as top priority:

  • 2004: 9.2%
  • 2008: 33.2%
  • Mainline protestant traditionalists who listed the economy as top priority:

  • 2004: 25.5%
  • 2008: 47.8%
  • Catholic traditionalists who listed the economy at the top priority:

  • 2004: 17.4%
  • 2008: 56.9%
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