031— Identity Politics in America: The Role of Catholicism and Its Implications

My research paper and its corresponding informative poster with the paper’s highlights details the role of religion in American identity politics, specifically that of the Christian Catholic Church. Identity politics leads to individuals (the electorate and the elected officials alike) making political decisions, forming policy stances, and choosing partisanship to help those most similar to them as well as what reflects them most. It even provokes those with said social identity characteristics to protest their beliefs as a reaction to certain policies and potential policy changes out of their favor. I will examine how Catholic religious beliefs play a role in political decisions and voting behaviors within the electorate and legislatures. The paper and its corresponding poster looks to historical examples like the election of President John F. Kennedy in 1960 and several other members of Congress throughout the years, in addition to contemporary examples, such as the examination of the intersectionality between Latinx heritage and Catholic religious beliefs. In addition to this, the paper will feature the analysis and review of peer-reviewed political science literature from accredited authors regarding identity politics, religion, and the Catholic faith in the lives of American citizens.