Trump's Influence on Arizona Mormons in 2020 Election
- Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Arizona, who comprise about 6% of the state's population, are showing signs of political division, especially regarding the support for Vice President Kamala Harris.
- Political tensions have arisen within the Mormon community, where some have publicly supported Harris, leading to backlash from their neighbors who support Trump.
- This division reflects a broader trend among the Latter-day Saints, indicating that a notable percentage may choose to vote differently from their historically Republican leanings in upcoming elections.
In Arizona, a significant portion of the population belongs to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which has traditionally leaned Republican. However, recent developments indicate a shift in some members' political allegiances, particularly in the context of the 2024 election. Individuals like Julie Spilsbury have become more vocal about their support for Vice President Kamala Harris, aiming to encourage fellow believers to consider voting for alternatives to their usual party choice. This advocacy has led to confrontation within their communities, revealing underlying tensions between differing political ideologies. Spilsbury shared that her public support has resulted in being shunned by neighbors and faced hostility from those who maintain loyalty to Trump. The division is not limited to personal relationships but extends throughout the Latter-day Saints community, suggesting that the political landscape in Arizona may be altering. As members embrace new viewpoints, traditional Republican support is being challenged. Political outreach efforts from both the Harris and Trump campaigns have intensified, recognizing the importance of this voter demographic. Leaders in the community see potential in swaying additional voters, indicating it could represent a significant shift in voting patterns. As election day approaches, the outcomes in Arizona may hinge upon how effectively both sides can win support from this evolving constituency. Looking ahead, if the Latter-day Saints community continues to fracture along political lines, the consequences could resonate beyond this election, influencing future party dynamics and voter alignment in Arizona and beyond.