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Romney's speech champions 'Symphony of faith'

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Phil | 1:18 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
I was impressed by what he said as I watched it live on TV. I was a worried that Mitt might come across too contrived, and he might sound like he was trying to tell everybody what he thought they wanted to hear. It was sincere and honest. The media response was very positive. Over all this will work out to help him get elected.
Flake kid | 1:18 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
I understand that Romney wrote his own speech and that what he said was obviously from the heart. You can disagree with a man like that but you have to respect him.
Richard G. | 3:28 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Romney displays a complete lack of understanding of separation of church and state, and denigrated those of us who do not believe religious fairy tales. Nonbelievers are good Americans too. Government should be secular. Religious people have complete freedom to believe, pray etc. where ever they want EXCEPT they shouldn't use the government to advance their religios agenda. The religious right has hijacked the U.S. Constitution. Romney's speech kissed the backsides of these evangelical fascist theocrats to show he endorses their agenda for imposing personal religious beliefs on all of us via government.
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Mahershalalhashbaz | 5:37 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
This speech did it for Romney. Now is not the time to mess around with third rate candidates like Ron Paul (who I like) or Mike Huckabee. A vote for them is a vote for Giuliani, who will completely destroy the Republican party if he wins the nomination. I don't even believe Giuliani can beat Hillary. Why? Because there isn't much difference between the two, and even I (a Republican through and through) will vote for Hillary vs Giuliani. A wolf in wolfs clothing is far less dangerous to this country than a wolf in sheeps clothing. So really a vote for Ron Paul or Huckabee is a vote for Hillary!
lynn h. | 6:06 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Fantastic. I wouldn't change a word. Inspiring!
ty | 7:00 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Even if Romney doesn't get elected I hope that the other republican candidates will be inspired by his words.
Kevin | 7:16 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
The speech was disturbing and self-contradictory. On one hand, Romney speaks of the separation between church and state, and on the other he says we need more religion in our discussions of public policy.

He insultingly denounced people who are secular, as if we are anti-moral and anti-American.

The most egregious form of political correctness is this deference to so-called "people of faith" on matters of morality. If our politics is going to be increasingly polluted with religion, we can no longer be polite to the faith-based.

My opposition to Romney is reaffirmed.


Anonymous | 7:16 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
It may be a symphony, mitt, but I know who you expect will be conducting and who will be in the back playing the triangle and who will be the roadie.

You did a good job championing the church's rebranding efforts ("we're more normal than you!") but outside utah this is a tempest in a teacup.

When your words reflect life in Utah, or life in Utah reflects your words, then I will believe.
Camille | 7:39 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
I listened to and watched Mitt Romney's speech, and I feel he hit the nail on the mark. He did a great job!! Everything he said came from his heart and he didn't jeapordize anything. He didn't put anyone down and if some think he did they really weren't listening. He stood for his beliefs and for what these the United States of America is supposed to stand for and what our founding fore fathers wrote in the Constitution and that is Freedom of Religion and Liberty. Nobody should be judged by their faith. Mitt you did GREAT!!!
Ross | 7:41 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
What Romney said was true and in harmony with the founding principles of our great nation. Truth is truth whether you like it or not, it is still truth. There is much to learn about Mormonism from his address. Some people hear the truth and can't stand it, but the truth is still true. Our liberty was and is a Gift from God, Freedom and Religion with tolerance must support each other. Those offended by this speech must be opponents to freedom and liberty.
Bob Kjar | 7:54 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Romney's speech was a signature moment in American history. It brought us back to ground level and introduced us once again to our forefather's principles. His testamony is one that will be listened to and respected throughout the world.
Kent | 7:57 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
I feel that he did not give the world quite what they were hoping for, in not claiming or disclaiming certain aspects of the doctrines of the LDS church, but as he stated, it would be unconstitutional if he had to defend his faith or preach from a political pulpit. I think that he did well at building on commonalities between not only Christian religions, but those of other faiths, such as Muslim. He also reminded the nation of our religious heritage and the need to keep religion and freedom together, otherwise the nation will fail. I commend Mitt Romney on his courage and delivery.
Kyle in AZ | 7:59 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
To be honest I fully expected another mediocre pre-presidential speech that would draw some media coverage and then die. This speech was unreal! This is the kind of leader this nation needs at this time. Could you imagine any of the other candidates even coming close to giving something like this?
Rob | 8:02 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
I didn't read or hear the whole speach but am very impressed with what I did hear. Isn't it wonderful to see a man who is faithful to his wife and family. It sure says quite a bit about a man who honors his family. It seems like he would honor his committment to our beautiful country also.
Separation - no such thing | 8:08 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Separation of church and state- hmmm. Let's see that is detailed in which amendment to the constitution? NOT. That's right,there is no such ammendment. Never has been. This idea was hatched up by politians to apease the atheist crowd. Read Washington, Jefferson and Adams writings and you will find NO separation mentioned or even suggested. Interestingly enough today, you find the ACLU and other cancerous organizattions preaching plently about atheism and that is fine - I guess but don't any one dare mention the name of Jesus Christ . Pure political hypocracy.
David S | 8:14 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
"Richard G" suffers from the delusion that something like "the separation of church and state exists", it doesn't and it was never written as part of official law in this country until some rogue judge in the 30's made it so. The founders of this country clearly believed in a religion-centered government, just not in a government religion. Two days after writing the "separation" comment that today is erroneously-applied by religion-haters Thomas Jefferson attended church ... in a service that was regularly held in the U.S. Capitol Building.
Mike | 8:15 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
I am a lifelong Mormon who admittedly has lost much of his testimony due to the history and early doctrines of the Church. But Romney's speech made me very proud of my LDS heritage. I believe he is someone who sheds a very bright and positive light on all that is good about the Church. And I like that, despite having to posture otherwise, he is probably a real Bush Sr. moderate at heart.
Re: Richard G. | 8:15 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
As a non-practicing Catholic living in Utah, I found Romney's speech very impressive. It was patriotic, well-reasoned, and surprisingly inspiring.

Like Richard G., I too noticed that while Romney was careful to be inclusive of all faiths, he did seem to stop short of including people who do not believe in God.

On the other hand, neither Romney, nor any Mormon I've talked to, has demonstrated the blatant lack of tolerance for others' beliefs as he did here.

If that is what atheists think of others, and this is how they treat them, then I'm happy to hang on to my "fairy tale" beliefs.

Think what you will of people of faith, but the truth is, if everyone believed and behaved as him, clearly this would would be a much worse place.

Why tear down other people for what they believe? Why not discuss instead the merits of what YOU believe?

Failing to do so leaves us with the conclusion that perhaps there ARE no merits to atheism -- particularly when we see how miserable atheists are.
Rob S | 8:17 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
In my opinion, way too much media coverage has been given this non-issue. The real issue is Mr. Romney's pandering to the "group of the day" that will garner him the most support (votes, money, etc.) and the back peddling / damage control / spin that follows.

The perceived concern is the influence the Church of Jesus Christ of Ladder Day Saints would have on the Romney administration .... how is this different from the influence of Evangelical Christians on (enter administration name here)?

The difference, it's not their influence on the administration.
Anonymous | 8:21 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Romney made a fine speech that he shouldn't have had to make. Democrats are never asked about their faith or religion. It just shows the bias of the media. I can support any candidate that recognizes we have a serious immigration problem, but after Bubba, it would be nice to have someone with family values and integrity. This country desperately needs this. I do believe Romney is one who would be that person.
Just wait | 8:29 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
So Mitt has now made his pandering to the religious right complete. I guess Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, agnostics and atheists just don't have a place in the country. Don't be surprised when the very bigots he's chatting up drop him for Mike Huckleberry.
willie | 8:32 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
wow. Mormons supporting Romney, who would have guessed? Too bad he put religion ahead of the U.S. Constitution and ALL people just to suck up to the right-wing-religious-wackos.
Aaron | 8:43 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
RICHARD G. "Romney displays a complete lack of understanding of separation of church and state...".
I'm sorry Richard, but you are the one who has misinterpreted the constitution. I quote from the First Amendment: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof...". You cannot find the words "Separation of Church and State" in the U.S. constitution. The founding fathers most certainly intended for religion to play a vital role in the direction and continued progress of this great nation! Of coarse, they did not advocate that the state establish, by law, the exercise of one religion over another, but all you must do is read the constitution itself to understand that the free practice, or non-practice of religion is an absolute right!! Romney and his fellow "evangelical fascist theocrats" do not wish to impose religion upon you, but you are obviously dedicated to imposing non-religion upon them (as is the radical American left)!!! Radical liberalism seeks to destroy the most fundamental and critical rights guaranteed us in the constitution, and I should hope you could see that your own thoughts and opinions are under attack when such freedoms are challenged.
Ken Baguley | 8:44 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Timing and location were great. The speech was presidential and if there were any fence sitters you pulled them back Mitt. Good for you and the country. Success!!!
Warning from the South | 8:48 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Governor Romney's speech was marvelous. However, ministers will use his lack of LDS depth of discussion as fuel for their nasty little sermon's this past week. Feelers indicate the sermon of the moment will be his lack of full disclosure on the tenets of his faith as proof positive he is "ashamed" of his religious roots. Ministers will pick up where Mitt left off. It will be brutal, just as the polls will indicate at the close of the weekend.
BBKing | 8:49 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Richard, sorry to hear you feel that way, though I am glad you posted. It is good to hear all sides of the issue.

I think it is fair to say that the evangelical wing is playing an informal religion test. It is this same test, and purity in passage that has eliminated Guiliani, and people such as Clinton, Obama, etc.

And the irony of these religious tests is that Bush passed, and yet most religious voters I know really do not like his policies outside of his views on religion.

Americans are a faith based people, so looking into the religious views is important. I respect that. We do not need to worry about Romney or others imposing religion on us. On the other hand, we do feel that atheism has spent the last many decades attacking everything we do once we step outside of our front door.

A balance has to be found and I think we have found it. There is no religious test for being a candidate. And voters get to ask religious questions of candidates. That is what took place yesterday.

Now for the same passion for balancing the budget, or strengthening the dollar.
Steve | 8:49 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
My husband and I felt that Mitt Romney did a fine job. It raised my eyebrows when he mentioned the whole "Freedom needs religion and religion needs freedom" thing, but do you know what? He's right! It is time America increases her vessel of faith. My husband and I have. I am unable to bear children, but hope to adopt. When I do, I hope that Mitt is the leader of our country, so that they will have good character at the helm.

Steve Schlotzky
JWunderli | 8:55 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Mitt is honest, passionate, creative, and very intelligent. He is a very successful businessman and, therefore, probably THE best candidate to right the budget woes of our country, build our economy and our international relationships. As for the "non-believers," I don't think he meant any disrespect by not mentioning them; I think the focus of this speach was to address his faith and the role God plays for him relative to him being president. I can't help but think that he we be a good, fair president for ALL contributing citizens, believers and non-believers alike.
Scott | 8:59 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Richard,

DID YOU LISTEN? He beleives that you should not be elected for your faith or not elected for your faith. He was not the one bringing up his faith in this election. He has tried and still has kept his personal faith out of this. Pay attention and listen!
Tai H. | 9:01 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Religion hasn't mattered in this election, and it still won't matter. Romney's supporters simply use his religion as a prop to sustain him, and then as an excuse as to why he will lose.

Conservative rhetoric does not replace a liberal record.

Huckabee has a proven conservative record, as does Fred Thompson. Ron Paul is a respected Libertarian-leaning Republican

John McCain is the very person that tried to hijack the GOP in 2000 when he won the upset in New Hampshire, only to be defeated decisively in South Carolina. Is Romney not guilty of the same corruption?

Rudy Giuliani is just like Mitt Romney - a liberal who has no respect for the Party of Reagan.

Mike Huckabee will beat Mitt Romney like a government mule. Oh, and when I cast my vote for Mike Huckabee, I'll be wearing my CTR ring. I might even cook some green Jell-O salad with marshmallows and carrots that day.

Mitt Romney's speech did nothing for his credibility. To label his rhetoric as a "Symphony of Faith" is not only irresponsible, it's down right dishonest. Mitt Romney's speech was a desperate attempt to garner a vote. He's just not wanted among conservatives.
spiritree | 9:14 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Gov. Romney's words were a breath of fresh air in a society that is more and more saying that believing in God should not be talked about by anyone that is in any government office. In God We Trust. Is the foundation of this nation and those that want to change that will stop at nothing to remove God from America. Thank you Gov. Romney for standing in the light and reaffirming what this country's strength is all about.
Founding Fathers will prevail | 9:19 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Romney will get the Utah vote.
So what?
In the end, the Founding Fathers' notion of complete separation of Church and State will stand.
This IS American after all and all REAL Americans will stand for nothing less.
CBU | 9:25 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
It took a lot of courage and conviction to denounce secularism. Mitt Romney spoke the truth. Kudos.
Teresa | 9:31 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Richard G. do you have any idea of why this great nation of ours was founded? Ever heard of a little thing called religious persecution? This country was founded on a belief in God and you should be thanking your lucky stars that you are privileged enough to live here where you can believe whatever you want to believe. If you think our Founding Fathers didn't believe in God then you are sorely mistaken. I'm so tired of the voice of the minority, ruining it for the rest of us. For example, those who want the words "under God" taken out of the pledge because it is a violation of their rights not to say "God" because they don't believe in God. Well, what about MY right to say "under God"? I'm so tired of being "PC" so as not to offend the fragile little hearts of those who prefer to feel picked on simply because they are the minority. Religion is here to stay in this country, it it really offends you so much, then GET OUT!
Ray | 9:31 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Mitt Romney said what was needed for the people of America especially those groups concerned about his personal faith and religious depth. He appears for sure the most presidential candidate my numerous friends and family have heard or read about. He did include the non-believers who say he didn't. They just couldn't read into it with a positive listening ear.
Hagoth | 9:34 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
To all you who have denounced religion, that is fine and your opinion is respected. But remember what our country was founded on, and why the founding fathers came here, a release from oppression and religious freedom. How could the colonies, incredibly outnumbered by the english, the world's most powerful army, be able not only to withstand them, but to establish their here. It has been a God-based country since the beginning, and that is why religion is so vital to our country's success and foundation.
??? | 9:35 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
After reading the contents of the speech, I am certain that it had the effect Mitt wanted. Except for a couple of unfortunate statements, it was a very good speech.

I take exception with the phrase "Freedom requires religion", this is patently untrue. Mitt would have done himself a great favor by replacing the word "religion" with "faith" After all, what is religion but faith directed and defined. I think it can be shown that many very secular countries have tremendous freedom, but freedom requires faith; faith in the ability of mankind to rise above selfishness and power.

Also, I don't understand why the religious view the secular as the enemy. They are simply two ethical choices. Religious fanaticism is much more the enemy of religion than secularism. If you disagree, let me ask you all who is the greater enemy, the atheist next door or Osama Bin Laden?

Michelle | 9:35 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Awesome Mitt! I applaude when he said that you can't have freedom without religion. Our country is based on this fact. The few 'seculars' posting can't deny history. I suggest if you want a country without religion take it back to England. This very well could be the beginning of ALL religions realizing similarities in 'heart' and becoming a united nation again. Oh yeah, "One nation under God."
Warren | 9:46 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
When quoting John Adams (I believe), he said the constitution was for a religious and a moral people. Aethiests can be a moral people. He didn't even remotely suggest that if you are not sitting in a church pew on sunday your not worthy of being called an American. That would be a religious test, and what he spoke out against! To all you aethiest who got your panties in a bunch, the constitution works for you too, if you respect my religion as I respect your choice as well. The government should not supress either. It has no hand in my freedom of conciense, nor yours. So I can't spell, sue me.

suzyk | 9:46 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Mitt Romney did speak from his heart. He is a man of integrity and wants only the very best for the United State of America. He is a man of values and loves his wife and family. Like President Bush, Mitt is the man who will carry the calling of President with upmost respect and honesty. He is not afraid to admit error and yet humble with the abilities and experience he has. My hat goes off to you Mitt...hopefully the citizens of the United States will open their hearts and minds and see with full vision your capabilities and love for this nation. You have my vote.
Keith | 9:47 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
I feel like I am in elementary school when I read some of these comments.

First, to insult someones belief by referring to it as a "Fairy Tail" is outrageous. But I am sure you have not moral issue with that!!!

Second, Separation of Church and State, Our Founders would have NEVER imagined not having FAITH in a GREATER POWER, THE CREATOR.......WAKE UP. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE GREAT MEN WHO SIGNED THE CONSTITUTION......

Third, Non-Believers are "Good Americans too", only shows your LACK OF INTELLEGENCE. I have never met a member of "THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATER DAY SAINTS" that believes non-members are NOT GOOD AMERICANS.

REALITY...LDS belive ALL HUMANS are GOOD [WORLD WIDE] and have the LIGHT OF CHRIST...Next time keep your comments of ignorance to yourself.

Final comment: you want to know what a Baptist believes, visit their church learn, same for Episcopalian, Catholic, Methodist, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Jehovah Witness just to name a few.

DONT'T LEARN FROM THE NON-BELIEVERS propaganda, by the way, where is the MORALS when you are not sharing love but hate, makes ya go HMMMMM.
Richard G the idiot | 9:48 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
you can have a seperation of religion and state and still have religion in the public. he talking about ACLU and all the other organizations that are trying to take "under God" out of the pledge or prayer in school. he's not saying those without faith are any less american, he's just saying that if someone with faith would like to publicly display it by praying then that's just dandy. also, that no matter what these groups say, God will be an integral part of our money and pledge....AS WAS INTENDED BY OUR FORFATHERS. pull your head out and think a little.
Reality | 9:51 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
If Mitt has the only true church and all the others are apostates what does he have to explain, he is right and they are wrong: end of conversation.
crich | 9:54 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Shorter Mitt: It's wrong to use Mormonism as a religious test for public office. The correct test is whether you're a Christian.
to: Just Wait | 10:09 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
I am not sure if you paid close attention to Romney's speach. By your comments, you obviously did not. Romney spoke of the importance of religion and freedom - he spoke of respect to Jews, Muslims and other groups - not just protestant Christian sects.

I would like you to help me on something. Will you please name one US president that did not mention something about faith while he was in the white house?

What one's personal convictions are or are not should not be criteria for a public office (look at our speaker of the house). The media has pushed Romney to make this speach. He did great.
Returning to our Country's Roots | 10:16 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Thank you Governor Romney for giving us a real choice!

Wouldn't it be nice to have someone with real values leading our country. As he spoke, we could picture George Washington, John Adams or Abraham Lincoln saying exactly the same things he said....and in the same way.

Thank you Governor Romney.
Rose | 10:26 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
I think it's kind of funny because I saw the way he stood up for Christianity a little different. Christians today are heavily persecuted based on past historical events, and those who are outspoken among that religion. The truth is that there are many who are not like, but are afraid to publicly let others know what they believe. While there is a great effort to protect a variety of other beliefs, there is no protection for Christians. They are suddenly prejugded as a bigoted, self-ritious people, unaccepting people. Those who are quote "non-believers" preach tolerance, but there is none for those Christians.

I have met many wonderful Christians who are afriad to come out about thier beliefs because they will just be torn down. It's truly sad. This speech is hope that there is equality for those who practice that faith in which this country was founded. Sure there are a number of those who aren't Christian who are good American's, but please, let's respect everyone.
Bottom line | 10:28 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Romney is big in Utah (of course) and with Rush Limbaugh. (Need I say more?)
But his connection to a peculiar people will come back to haunt him.
Separation: Keep reading | 10:32 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Thomas Jefferson wrote a letter to the Danbury Baptist Association in 1802 stating "I contemplate with sovereign reverence that act of the whole American people which declared that their legislature should "make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof," thus building a "wall of separation" between Church & State."

The framers always intended a separation.

However, there is no constitutional separation, just the "Establishment" and "Free Ecercise Clause".
No to Huckabee | 10:38 a.m. Dec. 7, 2007
Mitt Romney's speak on religious tolerance was impressive and allayed some of my fear with him. After listening to Huckabee attack Mitt's religion, I will not vote for him if he wins the Republican nomination. Huckabee has a right to express his distain for the Mormon religion. But, if Huckabee wins then we Republicans will have a Mormon basher. And if Hillary wins we will only have a conservative basher. I think someone who distains a specific religious group is the worst choice of the two.

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LM Otero, Associated Press

Republican presidential contender Mitt Romney delivers his "Faith in America" address Thursday.

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