The Religious Factor in the 2020 US Presidential Campaign (on the Example of the Impact of the Abortion Issue on the Catholic Electorate)

Abstract

The United States is a secular state, although religious traditions and practices have actually been deeply integrated into the American society. Moreover, the United States has been the home to numerous faiths, Christianity being the largest one. Despite this, the number of atheists has recently dramatically increased. Religion has had a great impact on the US policy in decision-making, as well as in presenting the decisions to the population in the course of elections, when the candidates compete for the votes of the adherents of various faiths. Their political programs often include the issues on which they most align with the views of their denomination’s adherents to gain their trust and support. Abortion was one such issues during the 2020 Presidential campaign. Biden’s announcement to stop supporting the Hyde Amendment stumped most Catholics and enabled Trump to compete for their votes, which was reflected in the candidates’ fierce opposition concerning religious issues. However, the Republican had a tough time with the Democrat’s known Catholic past and present widely promoted by both his campaign and the Catholic organizations supporting him. Nevertheless, this did not ensure the support of absolutely all the Catholics, as for many the abortion issue proved to be the key one, a strong reason to vote for anyone, except for Biden.