Christian
Latino Evangelicals Caught in the Crossfire: Faith vs. Immigration Rhetoric
Latinos represent the fastest-growing demographic among American evangelicals, with a significant impact on the political landscape. A recent Pew Research Center survey revealed that 15% of Latinos identify as evangelical Protestants, a crucial voter group in key swing states. As election season approaches, both major parties seek their support amidst a politically divided community.
The Rev. Arturo Laguna, pastor of Casa de Adoracion in Phoenix, finds his role more complex during this time. His immigrant congregation mirrors the broader Latino evangelical community, facing the unique challenge of political alignment.
Laguna emphasizes that for his church members, voting transcends mere political choice. “It’s a matter of faith and spirituality,” he explains. Many navigate conflicting values, opposing abortion while desiring immigration reform, presenting a challenging electoral decision.
Latino evangelicals, now influential in U.S. politics, have experienced inconsistent outreach from both parties. Approximately half align with Republican views, while nearly 44% lean Democratic. Despite a general inclination toward Democratic candidates, a significant portion backed Donald Trump in the 2020 election, highlighting their pivotal role.
Recent polling indicates that two-thirds of Latino Protestants are leaning towards Trump in the upcoming election. In contrast, a similar majority of Hispanic Catholics and non-religious Hispanics are planning to support Vice President Kamala Harris.
Many Latino evangelicals feel politically estranged, grappling with their conservative stance on social issues and their advocacy for immigration reforms. Agustin Quiles, president of Mission Talk, describes a palpable sense of discontent and silence within the community as they navigate these conflicting priorities.
Scholarly insights from Elizabeth Conde-Frazier highlight how Latino evangelicalism emerged as a refuge for immigrants seeking community and identity in the U.S. The relationship between Latino and white evangelical groups has become increasingly complex, particularly as many Latino Christians embrace more progressive values regarding immigration.
Pastor Juan Garcia articulates a struggle with the term “evangelical,” which he feels has become politically charged. He insists that Jesus does not fit neatly within a political framework and emphasizes the need for love and compassion over political allegiance.
The Rev. Jacqueline Tavarez underscores that her congregation prioritizes the values represented by political parties over the parties themselves. This mirrors a broader sentiment within the Latino evangelical community, where laws affecting education and economic opportunities resonate more than political identities.
According to the Rev. Lori Tapia, political discourse within Latino churches often emerges organically, driven by compassion and community needs rather than organized campaigning. She points to the slow pace of progress on critical issues as a source of frustration.
Bishop Angel Marcial emphasizes the importance of voting as a means to secure respect and opportunities for marginalized communities. While pastors refrain from directing votes, they encourage congregants to align with platforms that reflect their values.
Political scientist John P. Tuman notes variations in political affiliations among Latino evangelical communities, particularly between those participating in bilingual churches and those forming independent congregations. The latter tends to favor social justice issues that resonate more with Democratic candidates.
In Nevada, a crucial swing state, Pastor Willie Pagan highlights economic concerns as a significant issue for his congregation, illustrating the dilemma faced by many. Some view the Trump administration as a period of stability while fearing the implications of voting Republican amidst immigration anxieties.
As election day approaches, the Latino evangelical community continues to grapple with its identity and political representation, reflecting the complexities of faith, values, and social justice in today’s America.