Slightly more than half of U.S. adults have a positive view of religion’s influence
U.S. adults’ views toward religion’s influence on American life
Note: Estimates are based on responses to two questions: whether religion is gaining or losing influence in American life and whether its growing/declining influence is a good or bad thing. The “NET Positive view of religion” figures include those who said religion’s influence is growing and this is a good thing, or that it is declining and this is a bad thing. The “NET Negative view of religion” figures include those who said religion’s influence is growing and this is a bad thing, or that it is declining and this is a good thing. The “NET Neutral or unclear view” figures include those who said religion’s growing/declining influence doesn’t make a difference or did not answer at least one of these questions.
Source: Survey of U.S. adults conducted April 6-12, 2026.
“How Americans Feel About Religion’s Influence in Government and Public Life”
“How Americans Feel About Religion’s Influence in Government and Public Life”
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
Slightly more than half of U.S. adults have a positive view of religion’s influence
U.S. adults’ views toward religion’s influence on American life
| NET Positive view of religion | NET Negative view of religion | NET Neutral or unclear view | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr-26 | 55% | 22% | 23% |
| Feb-25 | 59% | 20% | 21% |
| Feb-24 | 57% | 19% | 23% |
| Sep-22 | 49% | 26% | 25% |
| Mar-Apr 2019 | 52% | 23% | 24% |
Note: Estimates are based on responses to two questions: whether religion is gaining or losing influence in American life and whether its growing/declining influence is a good or bad thing. The “NET Positive view of religion” figures include those who said religion’s influence is growing and this is a good thing, or that it is declining and this is a bad thing. The “NET Negative view of religion” figures include those who said religion’s influence is growing and this is a bad thing, or that it is declining and this is a good thing. The “NET Neutral or unclear view” figures include those who said religion’s growing/declining influence doesn’t make a difference or did not answer at least one of these questions.
Source: Survey of U.S. adults conducted April 6-12, 2026.
“How Americans Feel About Religion’s Influence in Government and Public Life”
“How Americans Feel About Religion’s Influence in Government and Public Life”
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
