PEW RESEARCH CENTER FOR THE PEOPLE & THE PRESS AND PEW FORUM ON RELIGION & PUBLIC LIFE JULY 2006 RELIGION AND PUBLIC LIFE SURVEY July 6-19, 2006

This national survey, conducted July 6-19, 2006, by the Pew Research Center for the People & the Press and the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life, captures American attitudes at a critical juncture. It examines the evolving and often contentious relationship between religious belief and public policy in the mid-2000s. The data provides deep insights into contemporary debates on social issues, the desired influence of religion in government, and the public's view on the role of religious leaders in political matters. This specific fieldwork dates make it an invaluable time-capsule for understanding American sentiment during President George W. Bush's second term, following major events and preceding significant political shifts.