Latino evangelical voters face difficult political decisions ahead of the 2026 midterms as immigration enforcement disrupts Hispanic churches. Pastors report declining attendance, deported congregants and growing anxiety among immigrant families.
William Rodriguez, an Assemblies of God superintendent overseeing nearly 340 congregations in Southern California, says most churches have experienced immigration-related detentions or deportations. Two evangelical pastors in his district were deported despite having no criminal histories, he said. Some congregations have also moved public baptisms into private homes.
Republican Support Declines Among Hispanic Protestants
Nearly two-thirds of Hispanic Protestants supported Donald Trump in 2024, reflecting conservative positions on abortion, LGBTQ issues and parental rights. However, recent polling suggests Republican support has weakened.
A Public Religion Research Institute survey found 44% of Hispanic Protestants favored Republicans, while 35% supported Democrats. Approximately one-fifth remained undecided.
Trump’s favorability among Hispanic Protestants also declined by 20 percentage points over two years, according to the survey. Economic pressures, health care and immigration remain significant electoral concerns.
Churches Navigate Competing Political Priorities
Latino evangelical voters remain divided between immigration concerns and traditional social values.
The Faith & Freedom Coalition’s Hispanic outreach efforts emphasize abortion, school choice and other conservative priorities in competitive states.
Meanwhile, the National Latino Evangelical Coalition encourages Christians to evaluate candidates through character, compassion and responsible leadership. The coalition’s September voting guide urges believers to consider how public policies affect their neighbors rather than relying exclusively on party affiliation.
Pastors Express Frustration With Both Parties
Political loyalties also vary among Latino communities. Cuban Americans have historically favored Republicans, while Mexican Americans and Puerto Ricans have generally leaned Democratic. But these patterns are changing.
Minnesota pastor Héctor Andrade, who oversees 34 churches, says deportations have shaken his former Republican identity. Despite his frustration with immigration enforcement, Andrade remains socially conservative and refuses to embrace Democratic positions. His experience reflects the uncertainty many Latino evangelicals face.
Political organizers continue emphasizing competing priorities, but many pastors and congregants remain dissatisfied with both parties.
Source: Latino Evangelicals Remain Vital Swing Votes in Midterm Election
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