The growing power of the Amish vote in US politics
by Thomas Edwards, Catholic Herald:
Religion has not played a central role in this election campaign. It seems that there are other, more immediate issues—such as the economy, escalating international crises and Kamala’s “joy” levels—taking precedence in the minds of voters and candidates alike.
However, it could be that the voting habits of certain religious minorities end up being the deciding factor in the presidential race. With both international and national conflicts proving to be particularly divisive and polarising, it’s likely that religious blocs, whether holding firm to tradition or breaking up in favour of a new path, may shape the outcome next week.
Muslim frustration with both parties’ perceived lack of compassion toward Gaza; Jewish concerns over left-wing antisemitism on the fringes of the Democrats; Catholic support mobilising for Vance: once the results are in, religious voting trends will be well worth exploring to explain the result.
But perhaps the most endearing of all religious groups set to take the stage in this election are the Amish. An ultra-conservative sect of Anabaptist Christians, the Amish are best known for their rejection of modern technology. They are easily identifiable by their plain, traditional clothes and their use of horse-drawn buggies instead of cars.
Placing high value on a rural, simple life, they are generally not inclined to get involved in party politics. Gelassenheit, a term denoting acceptance of God’s will, and Ordnung, the set of rules governing Amish life, mean they largely remain passive about the world’s outside goings-on.
However, as culture wars drive Americans into increasingly polarised camps, the Amish have found themselves taking sides with an eclectic bunch: wellness aficionados, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Donald Trump. And the reason? Raw milk.
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