The Texas Newsroom: Religion & Politics in Texas

The small group of church members and its pastor steer clear of political conversations to avoid offending one another and to let individuals form their own opinions.

In the first presidential election since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, abortion has emerged as a leading issue on many voters' minds as they head to the polls. We talked with two Texas Christians who’ve come to different conclusions.

Every week, thousands of faith leaders across Texas share religious teachings with their congregations — and some even offer political guidance.

As Nov. 5 rapidly approaches, the Texas Newsroom talked with voters across Texas about the importance of faith in their lives and how that’s shaping what they’re thinking about this election season.

At East Caney Baptist Church outside Sulphur Springs, which has been in operation for over 160 years, we asked worshippers what’s on their minds as they prepare to head to the polls.

A majority of American Muslims have been voting for Democratic presidents since 2004, but their support for the blue party is cracking.

Texas Republicans aren’t shy about touting their Christian faith when advocating for conservative legislation. But many of those same people have taken aim at Catholic organizations in Texas that work with migrants – groups that say their religion is what moves them to help immigrants coming to the state.

In the heart of the Bible Belt, where faith and tradition shape daily life, college students at Abilene’s Christian universities are finding their political voices ahead of the November election. For many, it will be their first time voting, and their experiences reflect a commitment to building connections across the ideological spectrum.

Historically, American Hindus are reliable Democratic voters. But, when it comes to the issues, the group is harder to pin down.

In the leadup to Election Day, public radio stations across the state are exploring how Texans’ religious beliefs affect the way they’re thinking about voting in November – and the greater role of government in general.