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Romney: No candidate should be rejected because of his faith
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Anonymous | 9:05 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
He did a great job we are one nation under God and He loves all of us
Earl | 9:06 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
The real concern some people have is that LDS leaders will make statements which
may appear to interfere or conflict with Romney's political positions.
Although LDS leaders seldom do that (liquor by the drink, homosexuality and
prohibition are exceptions), there is no guarantee it can't change in the
future. Romney, as a devout Mormon, would then have to choose between following
the prophet or following his version of Karl Rove (i.e., conscience). JFK was
able to persuade people that he wouldn't be swayed by papal declarations,
mainly because he wasn't that devout a Catholic. Romney can't say
that about his religious principles. That being said, I don't think he
understands his own religion if he can say he would double the size of
Guantanamo. There are more than enough reasons not to vote for him, religion is
a minor one.
Milt | 9:15 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Hey folks, I told you so yesterday, Mitt hit it out of the park and around the
world, there was nothing to worry about.
Comments continue below
Not Impressed | 9:18 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Not impressed with his speech. Given in a decidedly Mormon General Conference
fashion, with the trancing projection to boot! However, all the applause broke
the tempo, to the obvious chagrin of Mitt.
He really lost points when he equated the explusion of Brigham Young (and the Mormons) westward with the religious intolerance of earlier American history, since the whole expulsion issue was driven by the sedition and subterfuge against the State and Nation by the early Mormons, which was not the case with the earlier religious intolerance of American history.
It's amazing how every Mormon just has to inject their 'Prosecution complex' into anything and everything every chance they get. Not impressive at all, and totally out of historical context.
Romney still does not represent the values of the general American population and is still about changing values to meet the then prevailing political expediency needed to win office. He's just not credible on this point and that's what the Christian are most concerned about, not whether he's a Mormon or not.
He's just not electable.
He really lost points when he equated the explusion of Brigham Young (and the Mormons) westward with the religious intolerance of earlier American history, since the whole expulsion issue was driven by the sedition and subterfuge against the State and Nation by the early Mormons, which was not the case with the earlier religious intolerance of American history.
It's amazing how every Mormon just has to inject their 'Prosecution complex' into anything and everything every chance they get. Not impressive at all, and totally out of historical context.
Romney still does not represent the values of the general American population and is still about changing values to meet the then prevailing political expediency needed to win office. He's just not credible on this point and that's what the Christian are most concerned about, not whether he's a Mormon or not.
He's just not electable.
cg | 9:20 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
amen
steve | 9:21 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Interesting that Mitt mentioned separation of church and state. Israel could
use a bit of that, more tolerance, seems that it could help things a lot.
Well said | 9:21 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Thank you, Mitt, for your remarks. I like the reference to "we do not
insist on a single strain of religion � rather, we welcome
our nation's symphony of faith." That is beautiful. So is
"Freedom and religion endure together, or perish alone," and "I
will take care to separate the affairs of government from any religion, but I
will not separate us from 'the God who gave us liberty.'" Well
done.
Chris | 9:22 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Wow, that was amazing, if only those annoying people would have held their
applause to the end.
The speech was so well conceived it just might, might convince me to give up support for Ron Paul and put my full support behind Mitt.
If everyone in America saw this speech, I don't see how they couldn't be inspired and feel comfortable with this man being their president.
The speech was so well conceived it just might, might convince me to give up support for Ron Paul and put my full support behind Mitt.
If everyone in America saw this speech, I don't see how they couldn't be inspired and feel comfortable with this man being their president.
Dave | 9:24 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
As a Giuliani supporter, I thought Romney hit a home run with his speech. Very
presidential. I'd gladly support this man for president.
Katie | 9:26 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Bravo!
Brent | 9:26 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Well done Mr. Romney! I was inspired after listening to your speech. Well
done!
Dale S Perry | 9:28 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Gov. Romney did a wonderful job in expressing his faith in God and Jesus Christ.
He definitely explained his position that no religion, including his, should
take away or direct the President of the United States' responsibility to
its US citizens.
Great talk.
Great talk.
Jason | 9:35 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
To: Not Impressed
Why would you waste your time listening to the speech? You had your mind made up long before it.
Why would you waste your time listening to the speech? You had your mind made up long before it.
Very Impressed | 9:36 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
As a Ron Paul Supporter,and a catholic I gained alot of respect for Romney. Im
still voting for Ron Paul if given the chance but I would definatley support
Romney as our next President.
Sebz. | 9:39 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
I love his words, they reminded me of the importance of my religion! Hi!! Happy
Christmas! Love You!
Susan for Mitt | 9:44 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Well done Mitt Romney! That was a beautiful and heartfelt speech. It promoted
unity and tolerance and his love for America and the citizens. He was very
Presidential!!! He should not have to explain the Mormon doctrine because we
have missionaries out in the field to do that. They are not hard to spot. Mitt
Romney said what needed to be said and it was fantastic. He was emotional at
times, and so was I. Mitt would make a fantastic president. Everyone needs to
see that speech! Here's to our new President of the United States!!!
Conservative Mormon | 9:46 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Nice speech. I still would not vote for him. He's a liberal.
VERY impressed | 9:48 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
I thought making this speech was a huge political mistake. After all, religious
bigotry is too deeply rooted with most people to allow them to see anything
positive about Romney.
However, contrary to the negative comments (and shaky grasp of American history) found here, I've had our 3 DVRs going so I could watch the pundits on three different national news stations analyze the speech, and they all think it was mostly a positive thing for Romney.
I guess I have to agree; I stand corrected.
It was a great speech, and more importantly, a great thing for Americans to be thinking about right now.
Whether or not the speech affects Romney's candidacy (for good or bad), remains to be seen, but what Romney said was spot on and needed to be said. More importantly, it needs to be heard.
We've made great strides in America to overcome gender bias, racial discrimination and even tolerance for sexual orientation.
Hopefully, we can soon do something about all this religious bigotry, and perhaps Mitt gets people thinking about themselves.
However, contrary to the negative comments (and shaky grasp of American history) found here, I've had our 3 DVRs going so I could watch the pundits on three different national news stations analyze the speech, and they all think it was mostly a positive thing for Romney.
I guess I have to agree; I stand corrected.
It was a great speech, and more importantly, a great thing for Americans to be thinking about right now.
Whether or not the speech affects Romney's candidacy (for good or bad), remains to be seen, but what Romney said was spot on and needed to be said. More importantly, it needs to be heard.
We've made great strides in America to overcome gender bias, racial discrimination and even tolerance for sexual orientation.
Hopefully, we can soon do something about all this religious bigotry, and perhaps Mitt gets people thinking about themselves.
Anonymous | 9:48 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
As a person from jewish heritage, I am disappointed that a political candidate
would make it a point to talk about Jesus Christ as a "vote-for-me"
tool.
This should add ammunition to the Church and State separatists - as it should.
We forgot what happened in Nazi Germany, didn't we?
This should add ammunition to the Church and State separatists - as it should.
We forgot what happened in Nazi Germany, didn't we?
Not Sold on Romney | 9:49 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
What I find interesting with Mr. Romney and Mormonism: if one is rich, powerful
and has influence, they can publicly support positions in opposition to announce
Church policy and be named to Church leadership positions. But if you are a
regular working stiff and support similar issues, at the discretion of local
leadership one can be deemed not worthy of recommends, and denied positions.
There really are two Mormonisms.
There really are two Mormonisms.
Great poise and confidence | 9:50 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Mitt Romney has the poise and confidence and demeanor that I want in a
president. I am glad some comments here are discussing his political agendas
and opinions rather than his faith in God. Like Chris said, if every American
can hear this speech, they would see what kind of man he is. Whether you are
mormon or not, you have to respect the fact that he is standing up for what he
believes in. Now maybe we can now discuss everything else about his candidacy
other than where he goes to church on Sunday.
Lucille Ridd | 9:54 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
I could feel the genuiness, and humility of this great man, Mitt Romney
He made several remarks that should live in history. No wonder the applause.
Every thoughtful, serious American should be sure to view this speech.
If this man is not our future leader, America will surely miss out.
He made several remarks that should live in history. No wonder the applause.
Every thoughtful, serious American should be sure to view this speech.
If this man is not our future leader, America will surely miss out.
GoodGuyGary | 9:58 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
To Earl:
I like what you said "there is no guarantee it can't change in the future", so take what you get now. No doubt Mitt is the right guy for the future of America right now.
Go Mitt!
I like what you said "there is no guarantee it can't change in the future", so take what you get now. No doubt Mitt is the right guy for the future of America right now.
Go Mitt!
Uriel | 10:00 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
To Glenn Beck, Mormons are fanatically loyal to their leader who they claim
speaks directly with Christ. Dissent from the Mormon church is quashed by the
leadership. So this massive influence is what concerns Americans. Not to
mention if Romney becomes president he will probably have a
�bat phone� to Gordon B. in his
office.
Nick in Iraq | 10:02 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Mitt Romney did an excellent job. I was very impressed with his delivery and
his successful attempt to draw ALL faiths together. He did not need to EXPLAIN
his Morman beliefs, and I'm glad that he didn't dwell on that.
It will be a shame if he does not get the Republican nomination.
Watching this speech from Iraq, at a time like this, was very motivating and reassuring.
Great job!
It will be a shame if he does not get the Republican nomination.
Watching this speech from Iraq, at a time like this, was very motivating and reassuring.
Great job!
waynedew | 10:03 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
I am not LDS, but have many dear friends that are. I do not accept the theology,
but admire the values of the LDS relgion. That being said, I feel the main issue
Romney needs to address is independence from the Church. It seems that the Utah
legislature routinely confers with church authorities about potentially
controversial legislation and the church's excommunication of those who act
in opposition to church beliefs and firing of BYU professors is well documented.
Would he govern with an eye toward keeping the leadership of the church
happy?
Can Mitt Romney assure voters that he will do what is best for the country even though it may risk the wrath of church leadership?
Can Mitt Romney assure voters that he will do what is best for the country even though it may risk the wrath of church leadership?
Tab L. Uno | 10:04 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Unfortunately while Mitt Romney made a statement about how the public interest
would not be dictated by his religion, his matter of fact presentation at that
point in his speech did not appear to have the emotional connection to provoke
any strong reassurance among the skeptics. He didn't appear to go quite
far enough to inform Non-Mormons about his somewhat mysterious Mormon religion
to enable them to understand how Mormonism is consistent with Christianity.
Lastly, I would have been much more comfortable if Mr. Romney could have spoken
to his commitment to uphold any decisions of U.S. Supreme Court on matters that
happened to violate Mormon doctrine and that he would refrain from the excessive
use of Presidential Executive Orders and the policization of the federal
executive branch of government as President Bush has done. Mr. Romney's
religious background could easily permeate the Executive Branch if he wanted to.
Overall, Mr. Romney's speech sounded more like a testimonial at Church
that provided comfort to the Mormon population, but did little to assauge the
concerns of the general public.
wyorunner | 10:06 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Gov. Romney's best statement was:
"They would prefer it if I would simply distance myself from my religion, say that it is more a tradition than my personal conviction, or disavow one or another of its precepts. That I will not do. I believe in my Mormon faith and I endeavor to live by it."
I respect anyone who lives by his religion and at the same time allows others to live theirs. I will support Gov. Romney.
"They would prefer it if I would simply distance myself from my religion, say that it is more a tradition than my personal conviction, or disavow one or another of its precepts. That I will not do. I believe in my Mormon faith and I endeavor to live by it."
I respect anyone who lives by his religion and at the same time allows others to live theirs. I will support Gov. Romney.
Newbie | 10:06 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Some people will take issue to the fact that Mitt rarely mentioned "the
mormon" religion. I on the other hand feel that he did a wonderful job in
stating why it doesnt matter what religion one belongs to. What a great speech.
Religion is important to America, and the notion of separation of church and
state has been taken out of control for too long. Christmas or Hanukkah should
be celebrated in our schools, not simply secularism. Good job Mitt on saying
what has been on all of our minds.
Great Speech | 10:07 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
One of the best political speeches I have heard in a long time.
Art | 10:11 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Excellent speech. He did a great job. Very well done.
RE: Not Impressed | 10:11 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Lets face it no matter what Romney said you wouldn't like it. Lincoln could
have given the Emancipation Proclamation and if he were LDS you would say it
sucked. Oh and by the way Romney is very electable, take it from a non Mormon
like me.
Boths Sides of Mitt's Mouth | 10:13 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
From the left side of Mitt's mouth:
"Donate to my campaign and vote for me because I share your faith."
From the right side of Mitt's mouth:
"The American people should not vote for a candidate because of his faith. I am an American running for President, not a Mormon running for President."
Which is it, Mitt? This is another example of Mitt Romney taking whichever position will garner him the most support, money, and votes from the audience he is addressing at that moment.
Mitt appears to be a flip-flopper to me. I can't trust a flip-flopper to run our nation.
"Donate to my campaign and vote for me because I share your faith."
From the right side of Mitt's mouth:
"The American people should not vote for a candidate because of his faith. I am an American running for President, not a Mormon running for President."
Which is it, Mitt? This is another example of Mitt Romney taking whichever position will garner him the most support, money, and votes from the audience he is addressing at that moment.
Mitt appears to be a flip-flopper to me. I can't trust a flip-flopper to run our nation.
Luis L. Cort�s G. | 10:14 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
When you say Mormon faith, are you referring to a Christian faith? remember that
Brother Romney belongs to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Mormon has no church at all!
Mormon has no church at all!
Standing Up for Something | 10:14 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
I am so gald that Mitt is standing up for religion and religious freedom! I
loved that he addressed how the seperation of church and state has gone too far
and how we should keep God in our public lives, in our pledge, on our money...
it was great that someone of consequece is finally taking a stand against the
athiest population who think that this country, which was founded upon Christian
principles, should no longer allow God to be present in anything but it's
citizen's private lives.
wendy | 10:15 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Great Job Romney!
not impress????...hmm sounds lik | 10:17 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
thats too bad you obviously have no idea what you're talking about the
mormons are THE ONLY religion in the nation that have an extermination order
against where a governor to kill and destroy. You tell me when were you or your
family ever forced to leave your home simply because of what you believe in.
And why is Romney even required to explain and make such a speech. when a muslim
(the one religion who insist on killing you and all Americans) do not get the
same Requirement. As for not electable, Do you even compare every person thats
running instead of running your mouth why don't you do your homework.
Romney is the only person who gratuated number one in his class from Harvard and been successfull in everything he's done. Governor of the most liberal state in the nation 2. Had a very successful career in business. 3. Rescued an olympic from almost bankrupt and rittle with corruption. And heres somthing from the bible "By their fruits ye shall know them" Now tell me again who else is running that is more qualify than him
Romney is the only person who gratuated number one in his class from Harvard and been successfull in everything he's done. Governor of the most liberal state in the nation 2. Had a very successful career in business. 3. Rescued an olympic from almost bankrupt and rittle with corruption. And heres somthing from the bible "By their fruits ye shall know them" Now tell me again who else is running that is more qualify than him
Matthew R | 10:21 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
President Romney is a man of fine talents and wisdom. He has my vote not
because he is LDS because he is the best candidate as a conservative.
Tom | 10:21 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Many of his remarks in the speech were not original. He basically took well
known phrases and slightly modified them to make them sound like his own. Very
similar to what a guy name Joseph Smith did long ago.
Marianne | 10:21 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
He did a great job - he will have my vote!!
Anonymous | 10:24 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
This was a very nice put together speech about tolerance and respect. We should
admit that every time we criticize or worst, ridicule others' beliefs, we
are going against of what our Constitution proclaims. He did also make a point
about standing for his beliefs. While other politicians dance according to the
song, there is this man who just says "if that's the case, so be
it".
Mike | 10:26 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
I think Gov. Romney's speach was powerful, rational, inspiring and sincere.
I trust that it will put his candidacy on an even playing field with the other
candidates of various religious persuasions, none of whom have had to respond,
ad nauseum, to questions about their church's doctrines. I have just
enough faith in America and Americans to believe it will do so, despite the
growing number of those "champions of tolerance" who accept, applaud
and celebrate any belief and any behavior EXCEPT those held and practiced by
people of faith with whom they disagree.
Anonymous | 10:30 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
No, we haven't forgotten what happened in Nazi Germany. He said that he was
asked about his beliefs in God and Jesus Christ and he answered and specifically
said "his beliefs". You can go to the Salt Lake Tribune and read the
speech. The rest of the speech he refered to God and even mention he likes the
jews traditions, I guess, since he lives in Boston and is in contact with the
jew community there (I understand a strong one).
Robert | 10:33 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Mitt Romney did an outstanding with his speech. He has my support. Definitely
"Presidential Material".
For all the critics and complainers, you criticized him before for not addressing his religion issue, and now you criticize him for addressing the nation regarding his religion. Get a Life!!!! Just accept the fact that Romney is the most capable for the position!
For all the critics and complainers, you criticized him before for not addressing his religion issue, and now you criticize him for addressing the nation regarding his religion. Get a Life!!!! Just accept the fact that Romney is the most capable for the position!
Mark | 10:35 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
I think the applause bothered Mormons more than other viewers. Mormons are not
used to people applauding at speeches. Applause is usually a good thing,
folks!
Maybe Mormons should start applauding speakers in their church meetings. It would prepare them for the real world of politics!
Maybe Mormons should start applauding speakers in their church meetings. It would prepare them for the real world of politics!
Wesley | 10:39 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
I thought this speech was a bad idea. I was wrong. If we were voting today,
i'd vote for Mr. Romney. It'll be interesting to see how it went over
across the country.
Dewaine M. Brown | 10:41 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
I look forward to reading the entire speech. I have only been able to read parts
of it so far. I loved the all inclusiveness of all religions. How important that
is. For years I have had this feeling about the pledge of alligance.
"One nation under God, indivisable, with liberty
and justice for all."
If we are not under God, we will become divisable.
"One nation under God, indivisable, with liberty
and justice for all."
If we are not under God, we will become divisable.
MINNIE | 10:46 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Romney's speech on faith will be among the great speeches of all time.
Eric | 10:47 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Well done!
Dean | 10:51 a.m. Dec. 6, 2007
Haters will still hate. There is nothing Mitt could say to appease the
habitual sneerer.
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