In 1890 only about 34 percent of Americans belonged; by 1989 that share was 60 percent, down slightly from its peak of 64 percent in 1970.

This decline may reflect the rise of small storefront congregations, which are missed by membership surveys.

Center for Data Analysis Report--During the 2004 election, there was a substantial amount of discussion about whether or not “pro-life” legislation¹ effectively reduces the incidence of abortion. Some religious leaders and political com­mentators urged pro-life voters to consider issues besides abortion when voting. Most of them argued that there is little that elected officials can do to stop abortion through legislation, or that the pro-life movement has not reaped any real benefits from supporting candidates who oppose abortion,² and that voters therefore should place greater emphasis on other issues.

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