I think it's been happening since eary on. probably the 80's when religious sects tipped the balance of power the republicans way . then religion = power= money. oh dear

I am genuinely curious, not being obtuse (I hope), or argumentative; but could you please explain exactly what you mean by "weakened economy"? I don't really see it where I live, and the news I watch does not indicate such that I recall.

It seems to me to be a result of too many factors to list. I would say that the main three are; indoctrination, response to other religious people's actions, and a response to extreme liberal propaganda.

Lack of access to resources is always a driving factor for extremism. People left out look to those that are receiving the resources and feel they are undeserving. My question is why do these same people support the wealthiest people for leadership? They end up loosing even more resources. Religion seems to be the catalyst.

What recent upsurge?

Last I heard, the upsurge was in the religiously unaffiliated.

Maybe what you're seeing is the religious getting increasingly vocal and strident. And worried.

No. It is more due to the aggressive attempts of evangelical religions to expand their sphere of control.

No, I think its because fewer people are believing in GOD anymore because they are so aware especially with the internet. it could also be a factor.

I don't look for results or reasons of a "weakened economy". I don't have need for many answers to my questions anymore. I bypass religion. So...

No. I think we're seeing an "upsurge" because their numbers are decreasing, so they're getting louder. They're feeling threatened. They don't like being told they can't use their delusions to justify discriminating against others. Typical christian persecution complex.