Honors College Theses

Publication Date

5-16-2025

Major

Political Science (B.S.)

Release Option

Open Access

Faculty Mentor

Dr. Finbarr Curtis

Abstract

This paper examines the intersection of secularism, illiberalism, and the shifting political alignment of Latino voters in the 2024 U.S. presidential election. It challenges assumptions that Latino voters naturally align with liberal democratic ideals, arguing instead that religious commitments, particularly among Christian Latinos, have increasingly aligned some with illiberal political movements. The analysis explores how conservative appeals to religious values resonate with voters who feel alienated by the perceived secularism of the Democratic Party. At the same time, these voters may overlook moral inconsistencies in candidates like Donald Trump if they believe he respects religious communities and challenges liberal norms they view as hostile. In examining the intricate relationship between faith, identity, and political power, the paper shows how both conservative and progressive narratives fail to adequately address this dynamic, which reflects larger tensions within American secularism.

Thesis Summary

This paper examines the intersection of secularism, illiberalism, and the shifting political alignment of Latino voters in the 2024 U.S. presidential election. It challenges assumptions that Latino voters naturally align with liberal democratic ideals, arguing instead that religious commitments, particularly among Christian Latinos, have increasingly aligned some with illiberal political movements. The analysis explores how conservative appeals to religious values resonate with voters who feel alienated by the perceived secularism of the Democratic Party. At the same time, these voters may overlook moral inconsistencies in candidates like Donald Trump if they believe he respects religious communities and challenges liberal norms they view as hostile. In examining the intricate relationship between faith, identity, and political power, the paper shows how both conservative and progressive narratives fail to adequately address this dynamic, which reflects larger tensions within American secularism.

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