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Romney seen as most religious in poll
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Rose | 4:08 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
This survey proves Romney has the most important qualifications a candidate must
have in running for president of this nation. This county was founded by
religious, moral men. One who is not close to God and does not have strong
values is more likely not to seek devine assistance in make critical decisions
in a time of crisis. As well Romney would be more likely to seek men/woman for
his cabnit and others serving with him who have strong values and are religious.
Our country must turn back to God if we are to survive.
Matthew R | 5:35 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Mitt is the real deal. What impresses me the most is his sheer intelligence. I
hope he wins. He is just the opposite of Harry Reid who is an embarassment to
the church. God bless Mitt Romney.
Steve | 8:06 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
The first two comments must have been written by members of Mitt's staff.
They're the purest forms of propaganda I've seen in quite a while. If
Mitt is so "close to God," why is he a near-clone of George Bush, one
of the most incompetent and clueless presidents ever to occupy the office? The
scariest thought is that some people will believe, like they do with Bush, that
everything he says or does is a result God's inspiration, no matter how
absurd or revolting, such as his pronouncement that he would "double the
size of Guantanamo." Matthew's comment that Harry Reid is an
embarrassment to the church is disgusting. I'm no Democrat, but I would
say that such statements are inflammatory and antithetical to a true Christian
attitude. I'm embarrassed for these two people above.
Comments continue below
This is great. | 8:14 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
The American people should be turned on to the fact that Mitt is considered the
most religious of all candidates. In times like these, religion that breeds
good morals is more important than ever.
Ken Baguley | 8:50 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Mitt Romney has what it takes, is what he says he is and will give all he can.
He is Charismatic, good looking, intelligent, has high communication skills,
original ideas, past performances of leadership, knows what we need as a country
and has the skills to select the brightest and best and lead them to the success
the American people need. What more do we want? Mitt Romney elected as the
next president of the united states of america...
brent | 9:08 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
religious or not, Mitt still flip flopped and lied at the start of his campaign
as we all know...I may vote for him, I may not we'll see who actually gets
the nomination and who they run against..
Greg D. | 9:11 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
One of the great elements of America is that we accept people of all faiths as
long as they share our values and our love for this great country. I love the
fact that he is a person of faith, he believes in God, he believes in the Bible
and he believes that Jesus Christ is the savior of the world. Those are by
beliefs too. He is simply the best-prepared, best-qualified candidate to run
for, win and then serve as president.
Penny Nichols | 9:10 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Give me a break! Who cares what church any of the candidates go to? The
questions that should be asked are: Does the candidate have a sound foreign
policy? Does he/she have a viable domestic policy? What is the candidates stand
on health care (and leave abortion out of this)? How will the candidate
extricate us from a war that we can't possibly "win"? How will
the candidate deal with the mortage implosion? Leave religion out of it.
Mark B | 9:12 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
I seem to recall the conclusion reached by GWB before the 2000 campaign that
"God wants me to be president". No rap on Romney or anyone else, but
real, actual personal faith is not likely to show up in a poll, and if it does,
we should rightly be suspicious of it. If George Bush represents everything that
devoted believers stand for, then I hope (and PRAY!) that the next president is
an avowed atheist who pledges only to serve the people of our country and
support the Constitution, which does not mention God once.
Anonymous | 9:16 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Wow, Steve. You got a little personal there. Where did you get your
'expert' opinion about Bush? The media? It's funny how people
watch CNN once or twice a week and all of a sudden they think they know more
than the man who is briefed by directors of top government agencies every
fifteen minutes. I'm not a dogmatic supporter of Bush, but I do think the
president in general should get more credit than he does.
true blue | 9:21 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
People should be turned on to the fact that mitt is a brilliant and could help
the american economy. And he is not a George Bush Clone!!! Far from it. The
brilliant thing sets him apart from our current president. The one thing George
Bush has done for this country is make it possible for people to openly talk
about God
Kevin B | 9:27 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Steve: Enjoyed your post, but if you look at the facts, Mitt is the man.
He's the genuine article. I'm not on his campaign staff - paid or
volunteer - but he's head and shoulders above any other candidate, both
Demos or Repubs. Hey, maybe I should be on his staff, that sounded pretty good!
Tim | 9:33 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Steve, you're a typical liberal who fails to see your own monumental
hypocrisy--your comments have got to be the most hypocritical I've ever
read.
In one breath you call our president "one of the most clueless and incompetent presidents to ever occupy the office" and in the very next you rant about Matthew's comments about Harry Reid being "an embarrassment to the church" as "disgusting," "inflammatory," and "antiethical to a true Christian attitude."
Say what? What about your comments about our president, Steve? I guess you're the only one entitled to a strong opinion and harsh words, and everyone who disagrees with you is "antiethical" and without a Christian attitude?
Re-read your comments, Steve. How Christian were you? I'm embarrased for you, Steve...
In one breath you call our president "one of the most clueless and incompetent presidents to ever occupy the office" and in the very next you rant about Matthew's comments about Harry Reid being "an embarrassment to the church" as "disgusting," "inflammatory," and "antiethical to a true Christian attitude."
Say what? What about your comments about our president, Steve? I guess you're the only one entitled to a strong opinion and harsh words, and everyone who disagrees with you is "antiethical" and without a Christian attitude?
Re-read your comments, Steve. How Christian were you? I'm embarrased for you, Steve...
Kyle | 9:42 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
I suspect that if Romney does get the nomination, the facts and myths of the LDS
religion will be probed by the whole nation. Be careful what you ask for.
John Adams | 9:57 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Religion is very important on an individual basis, but for President religion
definitely should not be the deciding factor. We want someone to support,
protect & defend the Constitution. GWB supposedly is religious, the
Clintons supposedly are not - neither did/does much to support our Constitution.
Mitt seems like a nice guy and all, but I don't see him doing much to
support the Constitution either (see his stance on War, on Healthcare, on
Education, etc.)
Brad Anderson | 10:00 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Rose- I prefer a man that is close to REALITY, and makes his choices that way. I
prefer that over a man that makes his choices by praying. It sure didn't do
much for President Bush.
And why does Religion breed good morals? Being good so God doesn't hate you is better than being good because it is how you want to be treated, even though you have no fear of going to hell if you don't?
Mitt changes what he stands for too often. Seems to me he is out to get votes. That is why I would not vote for him, not because he is Mormon. I just want a President that is Pro-Reality! If God really helped out, I am sure things would be going a lot better in Iraq! God must be too busy helping people win Super bowls, and Grammy�s!
And why does Religion breed good morals? Being good so God doesn't hate you is better than being good because it is how you want to be treated, even though you have no fear of going to hell if you don't?
Mitt changes what he stands for too often. Seems to me he is out to get votes. That is why I would not vote for him, not because he is Mormon. I just want a President that is Pro-Reality! If God really helped out, I am sure things would be going a lot better in Iraq! God must be too busy helping people win Super bowls, and Grammy�s!
Tai H. | 10:25 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Mitt Romney surely expressed his religious convictions when he, as an executive
for Marriot, ensured that pornography pay-per-views, be readily available for
Marriot customers.
Mitt Romney surely expressed his religious convictions with his record of support for abortions on demand.
Mitt Romney surely expressed his religious convictions when he signed into legislation, the largest band on assault weapons in the history of Massachusetts (this, despite the supportive views of Secretary/President Ezra Taft Benson for the US Bill of Rights).
Mitt Romney is a liberal, just like his father. If you want to talk about religion, especially Mormonism, look at the statements Ezra Taft Benson and Bruce R. McConkie made on the topic of communism. They call it a "secret combination". So, I guess that makes Mitt Romney, a "Gadiaton Robber".
I'm with Fred.
Mitt Romney surely expressed his religious convictions with his record of support for abortions on demand.
Mitt Romney surely expressed his religious convictions when he signed into legislation, the largest band on assault weapons in the history of Massachusetts (this, despite the supportive views of Secretary/President Ezra Taft Benson for the US Bill of Rights).
Mitt Romney is a liberal, just like his father. If you want to talk about religion, especially Mormonism, look at the statements Ezra Taft Benson and Bruce R. McConkie made on the topic of communism. They call it a "secret combination". So, I guess that makes Mitt Romney, a "Gadiaton Robber".
I'm with Fred.
Elliott HAnsen | 10:42 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Why does it always seem like it's the mormons who get all of the attention?
They are just another church out their so why do they always get recognized.
People say they won't vote for mormons but who really cares which religion
they are. As long as they aren't trying to impose their religion on us it
shouldn't matter what religion they are in.
Non-Mormon Utahn | 10:47 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Just like JFK being Catholic ended up being a non-issue, Mitt Romney being
Mormon will be a non-issue.
As a non-mormon living in Utah, I respect the LDS Church. But, Mormons are not better or worse (more or less ethical) than any other group of Americans. This is why Mitt's religion is a non-issue.
Ironically, though, is seems that mormons are more interested in others' perceptions of their church than most groups are. I think that this is why so many mormons are talking about Mitt's religion being an issue for the rest of the country. If Mormon's are confident in their own beliefs, then they shouldn't think so much about what others think of them.
As a non-mormon living in Utah, I respect the LDS Church. But, Mormons are not better or worse (more or less ethical) than any other group of Americans. This is why Mitt's religion is a non-issue.
Ironically, though, is seems that mormons are more interested in others' perceptions of their church than most groups are. I think that this is why so many mormons are talking about Mitt's religion being an issue for the rest of the country. If Mormon's are confident in their own beliefs, then they shouldn't think so much about what others think of them.
Tim | 10:51 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Sorry if I offended you. As you can tell, my opinion is, well, my opinion. I
don't think I'm harsh at all to say that Bush is clueless and
incompetent. I think that's a fact. He's so disengaged from being
president that he can't talk without a script. His handlers cringe
whenever he tries to ad lib. On the other hand, I think it's classless to
say about another member of the church in good standing that they're
"an embarrassment to the church." It shows me that anyone who says it
doesn't understand church doctrine very well. I don't agree with Reid
very often, and I'm certainly no liberal. But I would never criticize a
person as an embarrassment to their religion. I hope you'll note that I
didn't say that Bush was an embarrassment to his religion.
Steve | 10:53 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Tim, I just realized that I put your name where mine should have been. My
apologies. That was my response, not Tim's.
lifer | 11:02 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Mitt indeed IS the man.
Anyone so capable of flipflopping as much as he with such a straight face was born to the position.
Ironically, wouldn't we all be a lot better off if only dubya WOULD flipflop more often on things like the war, cutting important programs within the VA while supporting more tax cuts for the rich and infamous, distain for CHIPS. . . .
Thank goodness neither of those clowns will be living at 1600 PA Ave come 2009. And that, ladies and gentlemen, is as close to a fact as you're going to get while immersed in arguments about religion.
Anyone so capable of flipflopping as much as he with such a straight face was born to the position.
Ironically, wouldn't we all be a lot better off if only dubya WOULD flipflop more often on things like the war, cutting important programs within the VA while supporting more tax cuts for the rich and infamous, distain for CHIPS. . . .
Thank goodness neither of those clowns will be living at 1600 PA Ave come 2009. And that, ladies and gentlemen, is as close to a fact as you're going to get while immersed in arguments about religion.
Constitutionalist | 11:03 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
The facts are that our country is a complex society, culturally divided, at war
with fanatics, and bordering on potential economic problems. No easy solutions
to any of those. My choice is Mitt, regardless of religious beliefs - he's
the smartest, has the management experience, has the turn-around successes, and
knows enough to put smart people around him. Despite what we might like to do,
we'll never take the country's culture or values back to the late
1700's. Incrementally, Mitt has the skills and knowledge to run the
country better than it has been run since 1989.
Steve | 11:06 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Anonymous, I do admit that I got a little personal, but the remark that Matthew
made was extremely personal, at least in my opinion. When you call a person an
embarrassment to their religion, I think it crosses the line of political to
personal. It's uncalled for. I don't watch CNN, but then I
don't watch Faux News, either. I get accused often of being a liberal, but
I'm the furthest thing from it. Bush is way too liberal for me, as are
most of the candidates, including Romney. Bush has surrounded himself with
yes-men because he fires the ones who say things he doesn't want to hear.
He probably deserves a lot less credit than even I give him.
Cameron | 11:11 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
I like Mitt and am glad he's close to his faith, but I need him (and it
seems the majority of the Republicans :)) to get a different view on immigration
before I vote for him. While I wouldn't mind him in the White House (and
it'd be a milestone of respect for the LDS church if he were), my vote will
probably go to McCain for now. My own personal view (and I know I'm a
minority here) is that the Republican majority's view on illegal
immigration isn't very Christian at all.
Dan | 11:11 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Kyle:
I guess you wrote your comments without some serious forethought, at least in a political sense. If/when Romney gets the nomination, the LDS religion will not be as serious an issue as it is now, if at all. The irony is that the Republicans, more than Democrats, are playing the �religion card� on Romney. But the reason the LDS religion should not or will not be scrutinized during the general election is that perhaps one of the two most powerful Democrats, Harry Reid, is a Mormon himself. In other words the Dems might as well attack Reid instead of Romney.
Personally, I know that Romney, bar none, is the most qualified candidate; he has the most experience as well as competence. May the best candidate to lead the country win!
I guess you wrote your comments without some serious forethought, at least in a political sense. If/when Romney gets the nomination, the LDS religion will not be as serious an issue as it is now, if at all. The irony is that the Republicans, more than Democrats, are playing the �religion card� on Romney. But the reason the LDS religion should not or will not be scrutinized during the general election is that perhaps one of the two most powerful Democrats, Harry Reid, is a Mormon himself. In other words the Dems might as well attack Reid instead of Romney.
Personally, I know that Romney, bar none, is the most qualified candidate; he has the most experience as well as competence. May the best candidate to lead the country win!
Sharon B | 11:14 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
It is incomprehensible to me to picture God "hating" one of His
children. When my children made crazy choices, I sure didn't hate
them...but hated their actions. I would also consider it pretty risky to
determine that GWB has not received answers to his prayers. That is a pretty
risky judgement to make. I have to confessed that I have changed some of my
ways of thinking during my lifetime....in fact...I believe that to be a good
thing as we mature, receive additional information and knowledge not had
beforehand. I don't consider myself a "liar" for that. The
Constitution may not mention "God" but those who provided it for us in
most of their writings were very vocal in their dependency on Him. Thomas
Jefferson cut out direct quotes of the Savior from the New Testament and carried
them with him..it was called Jefferson's Bible. I feel one or two of the
candidates are more likely to love our country, respects it's citizenry and
their rights and protect and preserve the Constitution. A man of faith knows
there will be an accountability to Diety one day which can be an influence for
good in fulfilling the office of the Presidency with honor and integrity. The
pull to be powerful is a huge negative influence on any human being, but a
nation of prayerful citizenry who truly believe in God and prays for the welfare
of our nation is even more powerful. May God direct our choices..that's
what it's all about in my mind.
Steve | 11:16 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
To the KSL board monitors: I made the mistake of putting someone else's
name where mine should have been in a previous comment. That caused me to think
about the havoc that a prankster could play my misrepresenting themselves as
someone else on these boards. I'm sure you've considered having a
login so that kind of thing won't happen, but I wish you'd reconsider
it to make sure it won't. Plus, it would save people like me from
accidentally putting in the name of the person you're addressing rather
than your own.
Bob | 11:23 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
I guess ego is what makes it impossible to admitt a mistake. GW is the worst
Pres ever and many Repubs. are admitting it. How much information does one need
to see the truth. Ego is a sin too. Pull your heads out of the sand and see bush
for what he is, a crook to has almost ruined this country
Melville, Wariboko T | 11:26 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
It does appear to me that most of us have forgotten the history of the founding
fathers who relied on God. Brad, talks of a pro real man. Reality is a creation
of religion. Religion changes views and puts them in good focus. If Mitt Rommney
is religious it is fine for America now than ever. However, i agree that most
people may apparently be religious in public but are not in private and official
activities. Give Mitt a chance lets see how he may combine religious colouration
into policies. How much does he Understand Africa? China is fast taking over
that continent. Talking about winning war is over. We need to withdraw! Lets us
think about a religious leader that may likely make us to win the new rag of
DE-AMERICANISM now appearing! That can better be a religious leader MORMONISM
not withstanding. The values are what we need and it appears Mormonism is the
Mover of Americanism.
James | 11:27 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Kyle, I think that would be a good thing to stir up those issues nationwide.
Most of the myths and lies that go around come, I think, from a vacuum of
genuine discussion.
But let's face it: Romney's campaign was doomed before it started. More doomed than Leiberman's was for him being Jewish. I'm only hoping they pick Romney for VP running mate, as Leiberman was.
As for Romney being liberal: The only way a republican takes the White House this go-round is if it's a more liberal one, like Romney or McCain- The pendulum will swing back after 8 years of Bush.
But let's face it: Romney's campaign was doomed before it started. More doomed than Leiberman's was for him being Jewish. I'm only hoping they pick Romney for VP running mate, as Leiberman was.
As for Romney being liberal: The only way a republican takes the White House this go-round is if it's a more liberal one, like Romney or McCain- The pendulum will swing back after 8 years of Bush.
Anonymous | 11:32 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
My daughter is doing a unit in school on choosing "virtous and moral"
leaders. Its forced us to look at what the indicators of virtue and moral
conduct are. Religion and how closely one practices his or her faith are one of
the few indicators a voter has. A candidate's past record is another, but
only when the voter is aware enough of the changes in circumstances that occur
when an official changes a stance on an issue. Any man that won't change
his position when confronted with superior evidence is an idiot. Anyone who
takes a stand on an issue that is contrary to espoused religious beliefs is a
hypocrit. The right person for president should have a set of strong convictions
that guide his policy decisions, a record of following those convictions and
principles, but should be intelligent and flexible enough to change when the
situation warrants. He should also have the strength to carry out his policies
rather than abdicte decisions to his staff or to the pollsters loaded questions
and biased responses.
As voters, we bear the responsibility of evaluating the available information about the candidate, deciding what is real and matters and what is fluff, and voting accordingly. As difficult as the job of president is, I'll bet that Romney will do a better job of discharging his responsibilities, should he be elected, than most voters will of theirs.
As voters, we bear the responsibility of evaluating the available information about the candidate, deciding what is real and matters and what is fluff, and voting accordingly. As difficult as the job of president is, I'll bet that Romney will do a better job of discharging his responsibilities, should he be elected, than most voters will of theirs.
Raymond Takashi Swenson | 11:45 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
With respect to Mitt Romney: It seems that people can't find legitimate
bases to criticize him, so they exaggerate things that are minor or not even
true.
On the issue of abortion, he has taken a rational and achievable stand, seeking to have the poorly reasoned decision in Roe v. Wade overturned so that people in each state can decide by initiative or through their legislators where the balance lies. The fact is that most nations that allow abortion do NOT leave it unregulated, as the US courts have done. A total ban on abortion under ALL circumstances is contrary to the position the LDS Church takes for its members, and most Americans actually would be in that middle ground if their power to make the laws had not been stolen away by the Supreme Court.
Romney has not "flip-flopped" on abortion law--he changed his mind, once. His prior statements were in the context of being powerless, like the rest of us, to change the law. If Orrin Hatch can become a supporter of embyonic stem cell research, why can't Romney, upon considering it, take the opposite position? Criticizing Romney over once allowing the law to stand, even though his position has changed, is like continuing to criticize Mormons as "racist" even though they opened the priesthood to blacks 30 years ago! It is like criticizing President Bush for the drinking of alcohol that he gave up decades ago! People who hate you don't really care if you have changed for the better or not, they are just looking for excuses to express their preemptive self-righteousness. Anyone who has never had to change his mind on any political issue just doesn't know how to learn anything new.
On the issue of abortion, he has taken a rational and achievable stand, seeking to have the poorly reasoned decision in Roe v. Wade overturned so that people in each state can decide by initiative or through their legislators where the balance lies. The fact is that most nations that allow abortion do NOT leave it unregulated, as the US courts have done. A total ban on abortion under ALL circumstances is contrary to the position the LDS Church takes for its members, and most Americans actually would be in that middle ground if their power to make the laws had not been stolen away by the Supreme Court.
Romney has not "flip-flopped" on abortion law--he changed his mind, once. His prior statements were in the context of being powerless, like the rest of us, to change the law. If Orrin Hatch can become a supporter of embyonic stem cell research, why can't Romney, upon considering it, take the opposite position? Criticizing Romney over once allowing the law to stand, even though his position has changed, is like continuing to criticize Mormons as "racist" even though they opened the priesthood to blacks 30 years ago! It is like criticizing President Bush for the drinking of alcohol that he gave up decades ago! People who hate you don't really care if you have changed for the better or not, they are just looking for excuses to express their preemptive self-righteousness. Anyone who has never had to change his mind on any political issue just doesn't know how to learn anything new.
Steve | 11:51 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Tim, I apologize if I offended you. The difference I see is that political
comments are not a problem, it's just when you start criticizing a person
for his or her religion, it crosses the line. Matthew's comment crossed
that line, and I think it's uncalled for in a political discussion. I
wouldn't have even flinched if he'd said Harry Reid was a spineless
liberal hack who carries water for the far left. Be as harsh as you want with a
person's political views, but keep their religion and race out of it.
Steve | 11:56 a.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Anonymous, where do you get your "expert" opinion of Bush if not from
the media? Do you claim to have personal contact with him? It's funny how
people who watch Faux News once or twice a week seem to think they know more
than people who choose to watch and read something more objective. By the way,
I don't watch CNN and I'm not a liberal. For my own taste, Bush is a
Rockerfeller liberal, just like Mitt, both of them way too liberal for me.
Craig Ulrich | 12:07 p.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Religon is important, but only helps form the character of the man (or women)who
is eventually nominated. Mitt's track record is what is impressive. Look
at what he has accomplished in buisness, civil, and elected positions. In the
last GOP debate he said something that was very important... "well, my
experience is being able to build consensus," "I believe good
Democrats love America just like good Republicans, and I�ll
find a way to get us to work together."
He is the only one who said that he had a plan. Let's give him four years to see if his plan can work. This is more than any other canidate has offered.
He is the only one who said that he had a plan. Let's give him four years to see if his plan can work. This is more than any other canidate has offered.
Mark | 12:30 p.m. Sept. 7, 2007
I think many grossly overestimate Romney's chances. He is barely breaking
double digits in the polls. McCain is ahead of Romney after running a horrible
campaign. Fred Thompson leaped ahead of him 24 hours after announcing. This
means that Republicans have seen Romney and they are looking elsewhere. Unless
the other campaigns self-destruct, the door is closing rapidly.
Kyle | 12:45 p.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Dan- I highly doubt it will just be the Dems attacking Romney's religion. I
believe the Christian south will have some major issues with his religion and
that he might actually lose some of the red states down there. The only thing
Clinton or Obama will have to do to win these states is start referencing god
and get caught once or twice leaving church. All politicians are sell outs! I
consider myself conservative (not my Utahs standards), I voted for Bush twice
(Oops, egg on my face), but I don't think there is a snowballs chance in
southern Utah that a Republican will win, so whoever gets the Republican nod
will most likely just be a sitting duck to be scrutinized.
Cheers!
Cheers!
Dave | 12:56 p.m. Sept. 7, 2007
I don't see the big deal with the (maybe) future president being mormon,
catholic, or muslim. What I do care about is the ability of the man or woman to
guide the country on conviction. That said, I believe the the convictions of
certain candidates (Clinton, for example) are not convictions at all. How many
of us thought something was "totally cool" or whatever in our
twenties, but grew up and changed our opinion about the thing? Does that make
us any less of a good person? I don't think so.
Candidates, like it has been said, should be judged on what they will do for the country, not what you and I think of their religion and how that will guide them. And with the issue of abortion, the president can't do very much anyway. All the president is authorized to do is appoint justices in the supreme court. So, if that's your deciding point for '08, figure out which candidate will appoint justices that reflect your views.
Candidates, like it has been said, should be judged on what they will do for the country, not what you and I think of their religion and how that will guide them. And with the issue of abortion, the president can't do very much anyway. All the president is authorized to do is appoint justices in the supreme court. So, if that's your deciding point for '08, figure out which candidate will appoint justices that reflect your views.
Spud Man | 1:15 p.m. Sept. 7, 2007
One thing, who would be the better leader with the country's best interest
in mind? Voters should think hard before they vote.
lifer | 1:16 p.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Sharon B,
Your discription of the Jefferson Bible may be a bit off in my opinion.
TJ did not believe in anything smacking of the supernatural, such as Jesus' divinity, the Trinity, the resurrection, miracles, etc. The Jefferson Bible was a much-pared-down and edited version of the Gosples. In TJ's own words, it was intended to present "the pure principles which he taught." ("he" was uncapitalzied in the version of a letter TJ wrote that I've read.)
I doubt many would disagree with the tenets of Jesus's teaching such as mercy, love your neighbors, or do unto others. But I think TJ's focus was far more secular in nature than you suggest.
I think this emphasizes a point already made that what is important is WHAT you believe, not whether you are Mormon, Unitarian or Atheist. There are multitudes of humans who have never laid eyes upon the New Testiment or the Book of Mormon who sincerely believe in the golden rule.
Your discription of the Jefferson Bible may be a bit off in my opinion.
TJ did not believe in anything smacking of the supernatural, such as Jesus' divinity, the Trinity, the resurrection, miracles, etc. The Jefferson Bible was a much-pared-down and edited version of the Gosples. In TJ's own words, it was intended to present "the pure principles which he taught." ("he" was uncapitalzied in the version of a letter TJ wrote that I've read.)
I doubt many would disagree with the tenets of Jesus's teaching such as mercy, love your neighbors, or do unto others. But I think TJ's focus was far more secular in nature than you suggest.
I think this emphasizes a point already made that what is important is WHAT you believe, not whether you are Mormon, Unitarian or Atheist. There are multitudes of humans who have never laid eyes upon the New Testiment or the Book of Mormon who sincerely believe in the golden rule.
Jann | 1:24 p.m. Sept. 7, 2007
I would vote for mitt first because I think he would do a good job. Im LDS and
so is he, big deal. I find hillary despicable. But in the whom ever the american
people chose for a president; we will have to live with it as when the election
is done and overwith the american people have choosen it. What bugs me more than
anything (especially in my own family) is that they dont vote and if you dont
vote you shouldnt complain about who is in office.
Sub-Odeon | 1:25 p.m. Sept. 7, 2007
I also believe Mitt is probably the best Republican candidate going, by far.
Sadly, he will not win. Why?
1) Recent Republican scandals combined with Bush/Iraq will hang like an anchor around the neck of any Republican who runs in 2008.
2) The Bible Belt will not hold its nose for a Mormon, and would rather sit the election out than vote for a "cult" member.
So we'd all better get ready for President Obama or President Clinton. Whether we like it or not.
And for all the Bible Belters: when you're busy whining about Obama or Clinton, just remember that you could have had the best candidate, and allowed your religious bigotry to cut your nose off to spite your face.
Sadly, he will not win. Why?
1) Recent Republican scandals combined with Bush/Iraq will hang like an anchor around the neck of any Republican who runs in 2008.
2) The Bible Belt will not hold its nose for a Mormon, and would rather sit the election out than vote for a "cult" member.
So we'd all better get ready for President Obama or President Clinton. Whether we like it or not.
And for all the Bible Belters: when you're busy whining about Obama or Clinton, just remember that you could have had the best candidate, and allowed your religious bigotry to cut your nose off to spite your face.
Confused... | 1:48 p.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Why is Mitt Romney (of all people), seen as the most "religious"?
Because HE simply touts that he is a active Mormon? I find that rather
humorous, considering he is also the most liberal of all the candidates (John
McCain coming in a close second).
Ezra Taft Benson never spoke of his involvement in the LDS Church when he considered running on the George C. Wallace ticket in 1968 (or for that matter, Strom Thurmond). Mitt Romney being a Mormon is simply his excuse to claim the conservative religious base, and will be his excuse when he loses the GOP ticket. I can�t wait to hear him -�Boo hoo! They didn�t vote for me cause I�m a Mormon and my great-great-great-great grandfather had some plural wives�.
Mitt Romney is not the global ambassador for the LDS Church, and he surely isn't ticket for the Republican Party. He's simply just a liberal ex-elected official who represented the State of Massachusetts (not Utah - not Idaho), JUST LIKE JOHN KERRY and JUST LIKE TEDDY KENNEDY.
Mitt Romney courted to Massachusetts voters by favoring abortion of demand, gun control, gay civil unions, and of course, being the son of the very man that attempted to steer the GOP to the far left (away from Nixon and Goldwater). The fact that he, while sitting on the BSA National Council, favored homosexual scout leaders directing young men in their adolescence, only seals his fate in the conservative AND RELIGIOUS conclaves.
Stay in Boston, Mitt. At least you have a fan club there!
Ezra Taft Benson never spoke of his involvement in the LDS Church when he considered running on the George C. Wallace ticket in 1968 (or for that matter, Strom Thurmond). Mitt Romney being a Mormon is simply his excuse to claim the conservative religious base, and will be his excuse when he loses the GOP ticket. I can�t wait to hear him -�Boo hoo! They didn�t vote for me cause I�m a Mormon and my great-great-great-great grandfather had some plural wives�.
Mitt Romney is not the global ambassador for the LDS Church, and he surely isn't ticket for the Republican Party. He's simply just a liberal ex-elected official who represented the State of Massachusetts (not Utah - not Idaho), JUST LIKE JOHN KERRY and JUST LIKE TEDDY KENNEDY.
Mitt Romney courted to Massachusetts voters by favoring abortion of demand, gun control, gay civil unions, and of course, being the son of the very man that attempted to steer the GOP to the far left (away from Nixon and Goldwater). The fact that he, while sitting on the BSA National Council, favored homosexual scout leaders directing young men in their adolescence, only seals his fate in the conservative AND RELIGIOUS conclaves.
Stay in Boston, Mitt. At least you have a fan club there!
Al | 2:26 p.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Please do your duty and get to know the ability and experience of the candidates
how to solve our own domestic social problems and can sustain our ability to be
the leader in the world today.
Stop the nonsense atacking one candidate to another.
Stop the nonsense atacking one candidate to another.
lifer | 2:26 p.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Sub-Odeon,
One reason some people are suspicious of Mormons is what they perceive as the religion's secrecy. Like not being allowed into temples. Yeah I know, "It's not secret, it's sacred." The Sistine Chapel is sacred too, but . . . .
I am NOT saying Mormons do not have a right to do whatever they want. I am saying that in America, people are not terribly tolerant of others who don't show their cards.
I guess I'm also saying it is hypocritical to criticize others for not respecting Mormons when the others perceive the Mormons don't respect them enough to be totally open.
Another reason is the perception that Mormons are none too hesitant to impose their beliefs on others. Things like Utah liquor laws and its extraordinary conservatism come to mind.
Again, I'm not asserting what is true or not true. I'm just talking perceptions.
Of course one of the biggest problems is when you run across a BYU football game and witness some 40-year-old RM trying to do a touchdown dance. EEEYUUU
One reason some people are suspicious of Mormons is what they perceive as the religion's secrecy. Like not being allowed into temples. Yeah I know, "It's not secret, it's sacred." The Sistine Chapel is sacred too, but . . . .
I am NOT saying Mormons do not have a right to do whatever they want. I am saying that in America, people are not terribly tolerant of others who don't show their cards.
I guess I'm also saying it is hypocritical to criticize others for not respecting Mormons when the others perceive the Mormons don't respect them enough to be totally open.
Another reason is the perception that Mormons are none too hesitant to impose their beliefs on others. Things like Utah liquor laws and its extraordinary conservatism come to mind.
Again, I'm not asserting what is true or not true. I'm just talking perceptions.
Of course one of the biggest problems is when you run across a BYU football game and witness some 40-year-old RM trying to do a touchdown dance. EEEYUUU
Sacto CA | 2:37 p.m. Sept. 7, 2007
I don't see Mitt getting the Republican nomination, since there are too
many right wing bigoted evangelicals in the Republican party.
Mormon for Fred Thompson | 3:12 p.m. Sept. 7, 2007
"Sub-Odeon" makes an obviously stupid remark in the words:
"The Bible Belt will not hold its nose for a Mormon, and would rather sit the election out than vote for a "cult" member."
Horsefeathers!
The Bible-belt would elect any official to any office, if the candidate offered conservative credentials. Mitt Romney's love affair with socialism prohibits him from such an endorsement. Ideally, Mitt Romney and his supporters are far better if they kept their same love affair with Stalin and Marx to themselves, and didn't infest the Republican Party.
It didn�t take a county of Evangelicals to elect Bill Orton to the House of Representatives. It took a county of liberal Mormons. It wasn�t a caucus of Unitarian Utopians that protested Dick Cheney�s commencement speech on the campus of BYU. It was a faculty of liberal professors and students. It wasn�t a quorum of Elders and High Priests that elected Ernest Istook, a Mormon Republican to Oklahoma�s 5th District in the US House Of Representatives. It was conservative Baptists and Pentecostals, right smack in the middle of the Bible-belt. It wasn�t a returned missionary that offered Ezra Taft Benson a spot on the 1968 presidential campaign. It was George Wallace � an Alabama Born Again Bible Thumper.
Romney�s supporters are made of the same pack that elected Rocky Anderson, and continue to send Orrin Hatch to Washington every six years. Remember, the National Review named Orrin Hatch it�s �Latter Day Liberal�. Hatch obviously has a friend in Mitt.
The only "cult" I see, is the cult that Romney has built in the GOP.
Sincerly,
Mormon for Fred Thompson
"The Bible Belt will not hold its nose for a Mormon, and would rather sit the election out than vote for a "cult" member."
Horsefeathers!
The Bible-belt would elect any official to any office, if the candidate offered conservative credentials. Mitt Romney's love affair with socialism prohibits him from such an endorsement. Ideally, Mitt Romney and his supporters are far better if they kept their same love affair with Stalin and Marx to themselves, and didn't infest the Republican Party.
It didn�t take a county of Evangelicals to elect Bill Orton to the House of Representatives. It took a county of liberal Mormons. It wasn�t a caucus of Unitarian Utopians that protested Dick Cheney�s commencement speech on the campus of BYU. It was a faculty of liberal professors and students. It wasn�t a quorum of Elders and High Priests that elected Ernest Istook, a Mormon Republican to Oklahoma�s 5th District in the US House Of Representatives. It was conservative Baptists and Pentecostals, right smack in the middle of the Bible-belt. It wasn�t a returned missionary that offered Ezra Taft Benson a spot on the 1968 presidential campaign. It was George Wallace � an Alabama Born Again Bible Thumper.
Romney�s supporters are made of the same pack that elected Rocky Anderson, and continue to send Orrin Hatch to Washington every six years. Remember, the National Review named Orrin Hatch it�s �Latter Day Liberal�. Hatch obviously has a friend in Mitt.
The only "cult" I see, is the cult that Romney has built in the GOP.
Sincerly,
Mormon for Fred Thompson
Get over it... | 3:41 p.m. Sept. 7, 2007
Lifer,
If you're SOOO worried about what goes on in the temple, it's no big secret outside of the church, there are plenty of places you can find it. If mormons believe that's how God wants it to be then let it be. Get over it.
If you're so concerned and have such a disdane for how the conservative majority in Utah want the laws to be concerning liquor, then move. It's not like you can't buy liquor, people do it all the time. Besides, is that not where laws come from? The people get together and decide what laws they want? Sounds like that's how the majority of Utah wants it. Get over it!
Mitt is a good person, better than anyone running, I have my reasons for not voting for him, but I do believe he is the most religious and moral candidate available.
If you're SOOO worried about what goes on in the temple, it's no big secret outside of the church, there are plenty of places you can find it. If mormons believe that's how God wants it to be then let it be. Get over it.
If you're so concerned and have such a disdane for how the conservative majority in Utah want the laws to be concerning liquor, then move. It's not like you can't buy liquor, people do it all the time. Besides, is that not where laws come from? The people get together and decide what laws they want? Sounds like that's how the majority of Utah wants it. Get over it!
Mitt is a good person, better than anyone running, I have my reasons for not voting for him, but I do believe he is the most religious and moral candidate available.
lifer | 3:53 p.m. Sept. 7, 2007
"Get over it..."
If you're so defensive about what I merely suggested were perceptions, at the very same time I said mormons have the right to do what they want, then it is you my friend who has much to get over. And responses like that aren't going to engender much respect in return - know what I mean?
As for my personal view of liquor laws - shoot, I've gotten drunk with lots of mormons!
If you're so defensive about what I merely suggested were perceptions, at the very same time I said mormons have the right to do what they want, then it is you my friend who has much to get over. And responses like that aren't going to engender much respect in return - know what I mean?
As for my personal view of liquor laws - shoot, I've gotten drunk with lots of mormons!
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