The instrumentalization of religion in United States politics: The case of Donald Trump

Although the understanding brought by the modern world strengthens the existence of secular state structures built on rationalist foundations, religion continues to influence political activities. Christianity (Protestantism) with the efforts of preachers who immigrated to America; contributed to the unity of the country and influenced the shaping of the social, political and economic structure. Although it has a constitutionally secular state structure, the influence of religion has been high in most areas in America. Since the end of the 19th century Zionist Jews have mostly received the support of conservative Christian groups in America. These groups supported the election of Donald Trump. Trump; With its rhetoric, actions and team, it has largely succeeded in meeting the expectations of conservative voters. In the thesis, it is claimed that religion was used as a tool for political activities due to its capacity of influence in America and this situation became evident during the Trump era. The findings obtained support the claim. Because, although there is a general opinion that he is not religious, traces of religion have been found in many incidents that took place during the Trump era, either overtly or secretly. In the thesis, which partially benefited from numerical data, qualitative research method was used in general.