Understanding the threat of white Christian nationalism to American democracy today

The rising influence of white Christian nationalism in some circles of American politics is posing a major threat to the health of our democracy and our culture. A new PRRI/Brookings survey of more than 6,000 Americans takes a closer look at the underpinnings of white Christian nationalism, providing new measures to estimate the proportion of Americans who adhere to and reject Christian nationalist ideology.  The survey also examines how Christian nationalist views intersect with white identity, anti-Black sentiment, patriarchy, antisemitism, anti-Muslim sentiments, anti-immigrant attitudes, authoritarianism, and support for violence. Additionally, the survey explores the influence Christian nationalism has among our two political parties and major religious subgroups today.  

On February 8, Governance Studies at Brookings and the Public Religion Research Institute hosted the release of this new groundbreaking national survey. A panel of experts discussed the survey results and what they reveal about Christian nationalism, the state of American democracy, and the health of our society. 

Viewers submitted questions for speakers by emailing [email protected] or via Twitter at @BrookingsGov by using #ChristianNationalism.