Welcome back to another thought-provoking episode of The Hot Dish, where we dive deep into the heart of America’s rural and small-town landscapes. In this very special episode, Joel speaks with two incredibly insightful guests who will illuminate the intertwining of religion and politics in the upcoming election.

Joe Donnelly, former Congressman, Senator, and Ambassador to the Holy See, passionately calls for character and equitable values in candidates, urging the religious community to consider these traits closely.

Robert P. Jones, the President of the Public Religion Research Institute, discusses how Kamala Harris's diverse background is more accepted by younger Americans while illustrating how the push for Christianity in public schools, like the Ten Commandments case in North Dakota, ties into the broader Christian nationalist movement.

Listeners will discover how American Catholics' views on abortion, governance, and religious affiliation are evolving, highlighting a growing acceptance of diversity within religious communities. We also delve into the pivotal role women play in political organization, particularly within African American communities, and the significant demographic shifts shaping the religious landscape in Middle America.

Joe Donnelly’s reflections on the humor and diversity in religious practices and Robert P. Jones’s dissection of Christian nationalism’s rise provide valuable insights into the underlying currents influencing today’s political climate.

Heidi will be back on November 6 and stay tuned for a special post-election episode that week as well. Don't forget to let us know your thoughts at [email protected].