Second, the wording of survey questions sometimes is problematic. Such issues raise an important third point, says Smidt, which is that the survey is intended not so much to measure political and theological beliefs within each denomination but to provide a spectrum by which to compare eight denominations. Assuming that pastors in all denominations react to the questions in more or less the same manner allows Smidt and his colleagues to sketch out a picture of how the denominations stand in relationship to each other. Surveying clergy is a central part of understanding those relationships. They also possess significant opportunity to shape and mold others and can can transmit political messages on and off the pulpit to their congregations.
Ministers have receptive audiences who often are looking for political guidance.
Smidt notes that ministers have always been an important force in American politics, but says there has been a significant shift in recent years in which ministers are involved. The conservative clergy shunned political activity in the 50's and 60's. In the 1980's the conservative clergy began to make their voice heard. The increasing influence of such groups as the Christian Coalition, under the direction of Pat Robertson and Ralph Reed, and the ability of conservative Christian groups to both mobilize voters and impact races also has created new powers for clergy and given Smidt and his colleagues plenty of grist for their mill. There's a lot of fascinating stuff taking place in American politics and American religion.