Seventh International Conference on Communication & Media Studies

Abstract

By analyzing content, ratings and electoral results, this paper establishes evidence and makes inferences on the role that religious media play in electoral context. For the case of Costa Rica’s 2018 elections, this study finds that religious media correlates weakly with voting preference, however, churches correlate highly, leading us to infer that religious elites are the main consumers of these media outlets and replicate their messaging (acting as a proxy influence). This inference is further backed by evidence of messaging published by these outlets during the electoral campaign and the role taken by churches and religious leaders. Regardless of their audience, these outlets provide a platform for the exchange of ideas and political consensus-building amongst religious denominations. Evidence of this can also be found in the 2022 elections (February).