@desicollege I moved to the South Bend area from NY about 15 years ago. St Joseph County is pretty much split between liberal and conservatives views. South Bend itself is probably more Democratic.
Believe it or not, there are many people who attend Notre Dame who are not Catholic or Christian. I have met people all along the religious spectrum including agnostic/atheists. I’m not sure if going to church or service is your thing but the South Bend Unitarian church is liberal leaning. Again, they have people all along the religious and non-religious spectrum who attend.
When I moved to the SB area, I was looking for places that had great coffee (they have hard water out here), they have okay pizza but if you are looking for a good deli or bagel, it is hard to find 
Finding people socially compatible should not be an issue on campus or in the area. There are a few “outdoor” groups that tend to hike or do other activities, that can help you meet new people. Send me a message if you attend to go and I can give you additional details.