Holiday Greetings

For John, BLUF:  And Merry Christmas to you, Mr McDonough.  Nothing to see here; just move along.

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Where To Say ‘Merry Christmas’ vs. ‘Happy Holidays’ — 2016 Edition

A study by Professors Andrew R. Lewis and Paul A. Djupe.♠

Andrew R. Lewis is an assistant professor of political science at the University of Cincinnati. He has published research on religion, politics and law in the United States.
Paul A. Djupe is an associate professor of political science at Denison University, an affiliated scholar with Public Religion Research Institute and co-editor of the Cambridge journal Politics & Religion.

Here is the heart of the issue:

The “War on Christmas” helps illustrate the cultural divide that was key to the 2016 election. Trump’s emphasis on cultural threat, including his calls for people to say “merry Christmas,” tapped into existing Republican angst, which heightened white♥ evangelical concerns and mobilized support in largely white Midwestern states. The corresponding backlash from the left helps explain why more Democrats, secular people and Westerners grew in their preference for “happy holidays.” As the “War on Christmas” becomes increasingly political, perhaps we will see more Christmas skirmishes in the next few years.

Charts at the Link above.

Hat tip to the Five Thirty Eight Blog.

Regards  —  Cliff

♠  Professors of Political Science, like Professor George Anthes.
♥  I am sure they meant Caucasian.