Politics isn't place for Mormon-bashing

Pignanelli: Blah, blah, blah. Political analysts continue to argue over the influence of religion upon elections. Regardless of the context (i.e. GOP evangelicals, the Catholic vote), the conclusion is the same: Religion is influencing campaigns.

In Utah, however, we could be witnessing a rare event: a political campaign that is influencing religion.

On many occasions, presidential aspirant Mitt Romney has artfully deflected inquiries regarding his LDS faith (appropriately refusing to disclose whether he wears garments). Yet, answers to more difficult theological questions are satisfying evangelicals but disconcerting fellow Mormons. On a Sunday news program in February, reference was made to LDS scripture that Jesus will return to the United States to reign on the Earth. In response, Romney stated "that doesn't happen to be a doctrine of my church. Our belief is just as it says in the Bible. It's the same as other Christian traditions."

Although a nonmember, I have read all LDS scriptures and a number of well-written works by various general authorities. Thus, when watching the interview, I knew Romney was in error and assumed a reaction was forthcoming (i.e. press releases from the church, apologies from Romney). Nothing happened. Eventually, apologists for Romney (including a church official referenced in Lee Benson's June 17 column) glossed over the issue by claiming confusing semantics. Everyone, even his detractors, believes Romney is a committed member of the LDS Church. But no amount of spin can eliminate the fact that he rebuffed, in a public manner, the 10th Article of Faith. Further, in another television interview Romney made disparaging remarks regarding historical polygamy that troubled many.

The lack of recriminations for these public lapses is generating whispers among politically oriented LDS Church members. Some are wondering whether members can now pick and choose, "cafeteria style," certain doctrines and ignore others. (Catholics perfected this style of worship; the church couldn't survive in America otherwise.)

For good reason, church officials avoid humiliating high-profile members. But the Massachusetts governor will remain a contender for a national office for at least a year. During that time, Romney can expect more questions that explore the intricacies unique to the LDS Church, while facing scrutiny from evangelicals. Romney does not want to run for president and simultaneously defend the church but may not have a choice. Some LDS Church members in Utah believe how Romney responds to upcoming queries could promote subtle, but very real changes to how church members accept their faith.