Political Identity in the Church

The “Mormon Question” is at its most prominent this fall as Romney and Obama knuckle down in the race for the presidency, and now more than ever, people want to know where Church members stand when it comes to politics. There is indeed a distinct LDS political identity in the United States, and nowhere is it more prominent than here in Utah. Though the institution of the church itself continues to remain neutral of political parties and candidates, and on almost all political issues, Church leaders have encouraged members year after year to be involved in the political proceedings of their country and community, and to exercise their rights as citizens through voting and other means of political participation. This has led to a rise not only in political participation, but also political discussion and in political diversity within the church.

From a primordialist standpoint, one could contend that Latter Day Saints, especially those born to parents who are members, are heavily influenced by their religion, and have been so influenced from a young age to think and view their world in certain ways that reflect the teachings and doctrines of the church.

On the other hand, a constructivist view maintains that regardless of his upbringing, whether in the heart of Utah County or in a tiny, sparse ward in rural Nebraska, a Mormon’s political views and opinions can vary widely and on both ends of the spectrum.

There is a vague belief that the majority of church members are Republican. Many Republican standpoints on controversial issues, such as the high level of support for the pro-life side of the abortion issue, are in line with LDS doctrine and aspects of LDS culture. However, there is a growing number of LDS Democrats, and though many of them do think highly of Republican candidate Romney, there is as distinct a difference in political views  between LDS Democrats and LDS Republicans as there is between any other two members of the Democratic and Republican party (Monson).

In conclusion, there is an LDS political identity in the United States, but it is not as isolated as people tend to believe. Members of the church are becoming global citizens along with the rest of the country, and it is and will be a blessing for all involved.  

Monson, Quin. Do LDS Democrats Like Mitt Romney? Utah Data Points. http://utahdatapoints.com/2012/08/do-lds-dems-like-mitt-romney/

Samuels, David. Comparative Politics. Pearson: 2013