Free Market Family Values:
Conservatives Christians and the Republican Party 

Presented by Professor Karen Seat
University of Arizona College of Humanities

Since 1980, a majority of white evangelical voters have supported the Republican presidential ticket in every election. What explains the durability of this alliance, and how has it reshaped American political life? In this lecture, we move beyond headlines to examine the evolving social, economic, and theological visions that animate conservative Christian political engagement. Tracing the arc from the Tea Party to the rise of “Trumpvangelicals,” we explore how ideas about family, gender, race, markets, and national destiny converge in a powerful moral and political imagination.

Presented by Dr. Karen K. Seat, Distinguished Scholar and Head of Religious Studies and Classics at the University of Arizona, this lecture draws on her extensive research in U.S. religious history, evangelicalism, and gender studies. Building on her current book project, Free Market Family Values: The Rise of Neoliberal Christianity in the United States, Dr. Seat guides us through the institutions, narratives, and grassroots movements that have helped shape the contemporary Republican Party. The event concludes with time for audience Q&A.

Event Details
Date: Tuesday, March 24, 2026
Time: 6 - 7:30 PM (reception following)
Format: Hybrid (attend on campus or online)
Campus Location: Rubel Room in the Poetry Center
1508 E Helen St, Tucson, AZ 85719
Online via Zoom

Registration Required
On-Campus: $30/person (includes appetizer reception)
Online: Pick Your Own Price ($15/person minimum)

Questions? Email the HSP Staff Team at hspstaff@arizona.edu

Event Registration