As Black churches see emptier pews, Democrats may lose a key turnout weapon

Ever since the Voting Rights Act of 1965, Black voters have been the Democratic Party’s most loyal constituency. But lately, that bond has been looking more tenuous. Polls show President Joe Biden’s support among Black voters across the United States has fallen by double digits, with an even sharper decline in swing states.  Former President Donald Trump is making a play for Black voters with ad buys and campaign stops, leaning into their frustrations over inflation and illegal immigration. Why We Wrote This As President Joe Biden tries to shore up Black support against inroads by former President Donald Trump, a decline in Black church attendance may pose a key challenge – depriving the Democratic Party of an unofficial organizational arm that has helped get voters to the polls for decades. While Mr. Biden could well rebound in the polls as the election draws nearer, another factor may be working to the Republican Party’s advantage: the decline of the Black church.  For decades, Black churches have frequently operated almost as an extra organizational arm for Democrats, with church leaders endorsing candidates, giving them platforms to connect with voters, and spearheading registration and turnout efforts. But just as overall U.S. church...