One nation under God: partisan identity among Mexican-Americans living in the United States

Abstract

This thesis examines factors influencing partisan identity among Mexican-Americans in the United States beyond traditional socioeconomic predictors. Using original survey data from five churches in Southern California, the study analyzes how religious denomination, migratory experience, and economic perception influence partisan preferences in similar economic, and local political contexts. Results show that, while holding constant local, political, and socioeconomic contexts — as well as individual socioeconomic variables —, religious identity is the strongest predictor of partisan identity among Mexican-Americans in Southern California. Catholics are significantly more likely to identify as Democrats, while Evangelicals lean Republican. Moreover, a positive perception of the national economy’s performance increases Democratic affiliation — though changes in personal purchasing power have no significant effect. And, contrary to a popular narrative, a more difficult migratory experience is associated with a lower likelihood of Democratic identification. These findings reveal the complex, intersecting influences shaping partisan identity among Mexican-Americans, and challenge assumptions of a homogeneous Latino voting bloc.