Report: Christian Nationalist Support Grows in Indiana

New survey data shows rising adherence and sympathy for Christian nationalism among Hoosiers ahead of primary elections.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 3:42pm

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A dynamic, abstract painting in shades of blue, green, and red depicting a stylized American flag waving in the wind, conveying the fractured and overlapping nature of the Christian nationalist movement's impact on Indiana's political landscape.The growing influence of Christian nationalism in Indiana politics is reflected in the state's shifting political landscape.Franklin Today

As early voting begins in Indiana's primary election, new survey data from the Public Religion Research Institute shows support for Christian nationalism is growing in the state. According to the report, 37% of Indiana residents now qualify as either adherents or sympathizers of Christian nationalism - up from 33% in 2024. This dynamic could have real political consequences, as candidates may focus more on social and cultural issues that resonate with this segment of the electorate.

Why it matters

The increase in Christian nationalist sentiment in Indiana reflects a broader national trend and could influence the state's political landscape, particularly in Republican primaries where these voters make up a significant portion of the electorate. This shift could lead to more candidates emphasizing social and cultural issues over other policy priorities.

The details

The survey categorizes Americans into four groups - adherents, sympathizers, skeptics and rejecters - based on their views about the role of Christian nationalism in American government and identity. In Indiana, 12% are considered adherents, while 25% are sympathizers. A majority of Hoosiers, 35%, are classified as skeptics and 23% as rejecters. These numbers are close to national averages, but higher than some states like Massachusetts where support remains in the low teens.

  • The survey data was collected in early 2026, ahead of Indiana's primary elections.
  • Support for Christian nationalism in Indiana has increased from 33% in 2024 to 37% in 2026.

The players

Public Religion Research Institute

A nonpartisan research organization that conducts surveys on religion, values, and public life in the United States.

Laura Merrifield Wilson

An associate professor of political science at the University of Indianapolis who studies the intersection of religion and politics in Indiana.

Matthias Beier

A professor at Christian Theological Seminary who specializes in the relationship between religion and psychology.

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What they’re saying

“They didn't call Indiana by name, but when you look at the charts—Republican dominance in state legislatures and levels of support for Christian nationalism—it lines up. We do have a lot of Christian nationalists within the state, and we also have a Republican supermajority.”

— Laura Merrifield Wilson, Associate Professor, University of Indianapolis

“If those values are foundational to who you are, they're certainly going to influence how you vote.”

— Laura Merrifield Wilson, Associate Professor, University of Indianapolis

“It is a political movement that uses religion for its own purpose.”

— Matthias Beier, Professor, Christian Theological Seminary

What’s next

The results of Indiana's primary elections in May 2026 will provide further insight into the political influence of Christian nationalist voters in the state.

The takeaway

The growing support for Christian nationalism in Indiana reflects a broader national trend that could have significant implications for the state's political landscape, particularly in Republican primaries where these voters make up a sizable portion of the electorate. This dynamic may lead candidates to focus more on social and cultural issues that resonate with this segment of the electorate.