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Mormon Media Observer: Mitt's curtain call

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Jay | 12:50 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
I don't think Romney's failure had anything to do with Mormonism, much as the media has tried to paint Christians as bigots. Romney's church affiliation was far less an issue with the media than was Huckabee's--although Huckabee had been a governor for 10 1/2 years and hadn't been a pastor since '91, the media disdainfully considered him "the Baptist preacher."

It's very simple. Up until a couple of years ago, Romney had been supportive of the pro-choice/pro-gay agenda in his state. His conversion wasn't convincing, and the millions of his own money he put into the campaign made some conservatives feel he was trying to buy their votes. Voters who supported the human life amendment, marriage amendment, and FairTax simply found a candidate whose message resonated with them.
Greg | 12:59 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
California was Romney's last stand on super Tuesday and we let him down. I passively watched when I should have got involved volunteering to help with his campaign. If he runs again in 2012, I'll be an active member of his campaign. We let the best qualified candidate get away this election. I do think there is a lot of mormon hate taught by the Baptists and Evangelicals that gives any Mormon running for Pres. a disadvantage.
Bill | 6:00 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
I didn't vote for him because I disagree with him. As a Mormon, I am always confused when my brothers and sisters flock to the Republicans, who hold them in such distain. There are certainly Democrats who don't like organized religion, in general, but I haven't ever heard the suggestion voiced that one shouldn't vote for someone because they are "religious" or a Mormon. It just isn't raised as an issue among Democrats.
Comments continue below
Angel | 6:06 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
I was disappointed, but not surprised. The Book of Mormon clearly states that in the latter-days the Gentiles will harden their hearts and reject the gospel, thus causing the "remnant of Jacob" to go through them as a lion amongst the flocks. The (relatively) few who repent will be numbered among the House of Israel and ASSIST the remnant in building the New Jerusalem. Let's do what we need to do in order to be numbered among the House of Israel who inherit this land.
Eric | 6:12 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
As a member of the LDS Church in Iowa who was actively involved in the whole process, I can tell you that Romney's Mormonism is what allowed Huckabee an opportunity to win the caucus. I had several people who didn't know I was a member of the LDS Church tell me flat out that they would never vote for him because of his religion. Obviously, there were other factors involved as well, such as what appeared to be a recent conversion to conservatism on his part, although truth be told, I think he had previously positioned himself as more of a moderate than he really was in order to win in a very Democratic state. In the end, though, I don't think any Mormon would have prevailed against a Southern Baptist preacher who could easily rally the support of hundreds of protestant church congregations.
Todd, Norfolk VA | 6:13 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Mitt Romney's campaign was not a failure. Many people I work with were terribly disappointed when he dropped out. His supporters were split between Huckabee and himself which hampered his success. He ran a good campaign based on principle, not on religion. He will be back and he will win. The mass media hurt Mitt more than any anti-mormonism. He was splitting the "evangelical" vote in almost all states except for the south. THAT IS SUCCESS!
Greg Wizer | 6:26 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Jay, take a look at Romney's RECORD as governor in Massachussetts and then come back and tell us how he voted on the issues of human life, marriage and taxes.

It was a combination of his religion and the label of flip-flopper the media gave him. Now I know McCain would never change his mind (taxes - amnesty) nor would Huckabee (amnesty) but those aren't flip floppers, right?

Lynn H in Tennessee | 6:20 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Exactly right -- a kick UP the stairs. I like it!
Keep adding fuel to the fire | 6:21 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Instead of everyone coming together this will keep us more divided.
REP | 6:28 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Greg,,,,it won't do any good to look to a 2012 try by Mitt, simply because Obama will be the next president for two terms. The most liberal canidate has been sucessfull in painting such a "gloom and doom,- the sky is falling!" campaign, that a lot of america, including the left leaning media have been sold, all the while, not having to explain a single accomplishment as a senator. The Republicans have lost the trust of america, to simply put forth a canidate that makes many hopefull promises, no matter how much more experiance, he might have as a leader.
I agree | 6:31 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
I agree with the writer. Who cares what the evangelicals think. They're attacks were only seen for what they were: not good-faith theological diffeernces, but rather rank bigotry.

Anonymous | 6:26 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
You thought that NY Times piece on Mormons was "unfair"?! Wow. You've become blinded by your obsession with media bias.
Used to be | 6:34 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Mormons understand that people find them odd for their beliefs, but they don't understand WHY. It's because rank and file members find themselves defending a history that they're ignorant of. Have a courage to dig deeper into the church's history and founding, and you'll then understand. What Mormons call misperceptions in reality is often their own ignorance.
Anonymous | 6:44 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Howard Fineman and Jim Wallis, both powerful voices in the news media, said it best: Romney lost not because of his religion but because he was not likeable and he was insincere. In short, he was a used car salesman who changed his position according to the way the wind blew.
Ron in OC | 6:43 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
I've come to the conclusion that many Mormons want to be accepted as mainstream Christians. Mormons never have been and I don't think ever will be considered "kissing cousins" with Baptists and some of the other "mainstream christians". You know what, that's ok with me. I don't need Bible thumpers from the South to validate my religion and to be honest, if Southern Baptists are mainstream christians, why would I ever want to dumb down my religion for their approval.
Mark | 7:02 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Jay,

I live in Mass. Rommey certainly was not in favor of same sex marriage. That I know.
Roger | 7:04 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
"In Manhattan, The New York Times poked fun at LDS missionaries who didn't realize that Mitt Romney has dropped out of the presidential race. In my book, it's an unfair piece, particularly the headline: 'Missionaries spread the news, but don�t read it.'"

That might not be flattering, but it IS accurate. The missionary rules forbid reading, watching, or listening to the news. So why call the description unfair? Because missionaries *can't* read the news because the rules governing their missions forbid it?

Don't blame the New York Times. Blame the White Bible.
Nate | 7:06 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Not ready for an LDS president? Are you kidding me?

Mormons have shaped our countries history and innovation. FamousMormons dot NET has an array of successful mormons who most americans know and accept!
Ron in OC | 7:17 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Help me understand. The information on this blog indicates comments that are offensive will not be posted. It appears that anything that blasts the LDS Church is not considered offensive, but anything that dares mention Baptists is considered offensive. WHY???
pat logiudice | 7:27 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
It is a sad commentary on America IF Mitt Romney`s religeon detered his bid for office.
I am one of many in Florida who voted for Mitt, recognizing that (as far as I`m concerned) he was the ONLY real gentleman and respectful person running for office! His religeon is genuine to him, he has "lived it" proudly for his entire lifetime. His beliefs differ from mine, but I thought that fact was what defined our nation! (Someone with different beliefs, living what he believes and producing positive and helpful results in this world!)
He would have made a wonderful president, providing wisdom, genuineness and pride to this country.
Alan | 7:38 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
It isn't just evangelicals who are responsible for what happened to Romney. The media nursed the religious elitism and bigotry in their coverage. The entire time, all they could cover was controversial topics like polygamy and proselyting. There was no mention of the many, many strengths and admirable aspects of the Mormons and their faith.

Also bearing responsibility is the main body of conservatives who complain that Romney was rejected, but neither said nor did NOTHING to undermine the whisper campaign against Romney's faith. This was a chance for conservatives to show they opposed religious discrimination, to show they had no patience with Christian elitism. They could easily have stood-up for what was right. Instead, they chose only to attack McCain and left Romney unsupported and undefended until the very last minute ... when it was too late. No one wanted to be associated too closely with 'those Mormons.'

Americans are hardly the open-minded, fair, tolerant people they claim to be, and that goes for people on the right, on the left, and in the middle.
stracypete | 7:44 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Latter-Day Saints need to quit obsessing about "fitting in" and just live their lives as they are taught. Don't just talk the talk, but have lives that reflect quiet devotion to the Savior's example. Then it truly doesn't matter what Evangelicals or others say. By their fruits ye shall know them.... I am glad that, for the most part, Mormons don't return fire and get down int he mud with some Evangelical preachers who are worried about losing their income to a lay-church. Most evangelicals are good people who are "blinded by teh craftiness of men."
Jack from Ark | 7:55 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
I laugh every time I hear that Huccabee lead Arkansas for 10 and a half years. First of all the only reason he could ascend to the governorship,Was because his predecessor was found guilty of various crimes that were found out by the folks investigating Clinton. Huccabee would sell his soul (and probably already has to get to the presidency)So when you hear him "preach politic across the pulpit you shouldn't be surprised when he slanders a church or an individual. Not all Southern Baptists believe this nonsense. But you have to deal with these folks on a one on one basis. Be good examples and the world will see this good. BE BETTER
stracypete | 7:52 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Latter Day Saints need to quit obsessing about "fitting in" and "being accepted," and spend more time getting to know their neighbors in a genuine way, doing acts of service and adhering to the time-honored values of hardwork, honesty, integrity and family. Those speak for themselves and stand as a memorial to their beliefs more than any detractors ---Evangelical or otherwise, could say. We need to walk the walk; not just talk about it. We all know most Evangelicals are good people who are largely blinded by the craftiness of some of their leaders who are inwardly panicked at losing their congregations and income to a lay church.
RI Reader | 7:56 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
In New England, Mormons are really not well known, in spite of people like Mitt who are always finding a way to be in the public eye. However, Mitt's campaign did open doors that would not have otherwise been open. My neighbors all want to know more about the church now - because they want to know what this fuss is all about.

Every cynical comment (such as Mormons actually believe Jesus and the Devil are borthers) didn't offend my neighbors - it piqued their curiosity. I had many missionary conversations that came about through people taking pot shots at the church in the news to defame the Mormons. All they really did in my town was contribute to free advertising and a boost in missionary work.

I would not have voted for Mitt for a number of reasons (all having to deal with his poor human relations skills), but I am glad he made his religion an issue to be talked about. It is truly a religion worth talking about ... over and over.
Why Mitt lost | 7:59 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
1. No question that a fair amount of religious bigotry still exists, some people will simply not vote for a Mormon no matter what.

2. Mitt was successfully labeled as a flip-flopper by his opponents (he certainly flipped on several issues, but didn't "flop" back; it's too bad one can't change their mind)

3. Mitt said stupid things about seeing his dad march with Martin Luther King (untrue) and hunting all his life (untrue), which made him appear like John Kerry in being willing to say anything to get elected

4. There's quite an animosity toward the rich in this country, and Mitt looks, acts, and spends like a disdainful Ken-doll rich white man that has no empathy for "real people"

5. Mitt came across as mean, unlikeable, disagreeable, and unable to cooperate with others--even in his own party--to make things happen. I believe the animosity he created among other Repuplican contenders was his final doom.

It's too bad, because I feel that Mitt was the best-qualified presidential candidate the U.S. has ever seen; I think he would have made a stellar president. In the end, he's blazed a good trail that he'll be able to follow in 2012.
Rick | 8:06 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
After having read some of the comments, I have come to the conclusion that we mormons do not want to be kissing cousins of any other Christian religion. What we really want are two things: First, we want to be free to call ourselves Christian because in our hearts we follow our Lord an Savior Jesus Christ and second we want to be free to define our brand of Christianity as we see fit. I find it the height of arrogance to call another's Christian faith anything other than Christian because it does not follow the specific doctrines of your own sect.

I find solice in the fact that I can go to my Church services with the express expectation that I will spend my time personally worshipping my God and fellowshipping with my fellow brothers and sisters with the goal of becoming a bit more like Him I attempt to serve and NOT to spend my time belittling or attacking the doctrines of other faiths.

I'm thankful for the efforts of those who are so virulently against us. It only serves to strengthen my testimony and remind me that we truly are a peculiar people. We should be proud!
Steve Price | 8:01 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
I served a mission in Oklahoma, parts of Kansas, Missouri, and Arkansas. The Southern Baptists are not the only ones who share an anti-Mormon sentiment. However, most of the Christian church members don't know much about Mormonism, they just listen to what their ministers tell them and accept that. I believe it is more accurate to say it is the religious leaders that have the anti-Mormon feelings and they pass it around.

Frankly, I was very surprised by the success that Mitt Romney experienced. I think he was well liked by most of the people that knew him. Those steeped in ignorance and other party affiliation only listen to inaccurate media information. In 2012, Obama may find he can't win a 2nd term with a sour economy and Romney might have more support. Wait and see.
Andy | 8:14 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
The Republican Party will reap what it has sown - A life long Republican will now consider a party swith. This is not because of Romney but due to the blatant disregard for the principles of the constitution - NO Religious test for President - The Republican Party By putting the Christian Right Wing in their back pockets has caused a potential opportunity for the Democratic Party to win in the west for the first time in a long time.

I hope those of us in Utah will not vote the party line but really look at the situiation and vote accordingly - The Republican party has either abandoned us and or never even considered us. The need for a third part has never been greater.

I belive this should count for local leaders as well let the Republican Party feel the sting of this outrage
Not suprised | 8:08 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Last summer I told a Jewish supporter of Mitt Romney that I did not think a Mormon would ever be elected President for the very reasons all of these articles mentioned. This is one Mormon who is not suprised or disheartened. Romney did better than I thought he would. You can't expect everybody to accept you or like you. There are many good people in this country and some of them have biases against our faith. God will sort that out. We should just do our best to be among the good people.
Adam | 8:10 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Bishop Campbell--

I agree. I truly considered Romney to be the best pick, but I of course found myself dreaming of what that could mean for mormonism if he became president. I was surprised to hear anyone think it was bad for the faith. There is a reason for every LDS chapel in Spain displaying the picture of Hinckley shaking hands with King Juan Carlos. I believe the LDS gospel will only ever reach the open-minded anyway, so negative publicity does nothing but help lead those minds to the missionaries. Having a Mormon president is like taking "BRT" out of the committment pattern because it is already done for you.
CGK | 8:17 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
If the "naysayers" had any idea who Mitt Romney really is, they would have been honored to vote for and support him.
Anonymous | 8:19 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
It's not just the American people; Huckabee played a large role in this, inflaming and leveraging peoples' intolerance into increased political power for himself at the expense of Romney. Why is he not being torn to shreds by the media for this?
Art | 8:15 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
This country has gone far enough into the gutter that the thought of electing someone with integrity to the highest office in the land is offensive. It would be so terrible to have a president with high morals and a sense of right. Shame on us.
Texas fan | 8:16 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Here in the Bible Belt, there are lots of fairy tales told about the Mormons. If we let it all get to us, we will not want to reach out to them. People really deserve to be told the truth. All of them are not being mean on purpose, but out of ignorance. The more open we can be about who we are and the more positive and truthful we are, the more others will see us for who we are.

Remember! The persecutions that we receive are but a sign of the true church. Let us be happy to share in Christ's legacy.
Anonymous | 8:19 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Mormons can serve in the military and die for their country. Mormons can pay taxes. Mormons can supply international relief. When it comes to being President of the United States of America, Article IV Section III of the United States Constitution does not seem to apply. If you are a Mormon their seems to be a religious test when it comes to be President of this country. This seems especially sad when it appears for the first time this country may choose a black man or women as President. I wonder how the Evangelical Sanhedrin would treat Jesus Christ today.
SLC | 8:28 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Romeny was a poor choice from the start and he finished as a poor loser.
Charles | 8:28 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
The vote in 1908 was controversial in that Taft was a Unitarian who did not believe in the Trinity. His opponents used that against him but the American public voted him in by a landslide. I think this election shows that Americans are more bigoted, close-minded, and prejudiced than 100 years ago. A very sad indictment on our society.
No Matter | 8:39 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Frankly, I don't see what all the hubbub is about. My faith has never been based on how acceptable it is to others, and I don't understand that some LDS have of needing to feel "main stream". If we are living our religion, we are not main stream and never will be. Ignore the jeers that come from the great and spacious building and don't be ashamed of what you believe in. Live your life so that no one can deny you are a true follower of Christ, especially Christ himself. That's all that really matters.

It is disappointing that religious bigotry is so alive and well. But then that is a natural response when minister's incomes are threatened by a proselytizing church. It's a question of economics for the ministers and a question of deception for their followers. Too bad, but it is what it is.
Members Ready for the Net? | 8:36 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
I have found it very interesting that the Church has recently called for members to join in the discussion of our faith particularly on the internet. I'm afraid most members are woefully unprepared both for what they will encounter and how to honestly and effectively engage in the internet "conversation". One thing should be clear - simply bearing your testimony in response will do nothing (no matter what you have been taught in seminary) so please don't even engage if that is all you intend to do. Beyond that, the most difficult aspect is that in order to truly know how to respond to other's concerns you have to know what they are concerned about. That takes honest, thick-skinned research and most LDS are not ready to learn what millions think about our history and certain aspects of our doctrine. And folks, much of it is true so please either go into this with an understanding that you may learn things you don't like or don't start this process at all. And no matter how much you respect your Bishop or SP, just cause they say it is all just anti and wrong does not necessarily make it so.
A Democratic Republican | 8:36 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Bill,
Mormonism wasn't an issue amoung Republicans until Romney ran for their nomination. What would happen if one of us ran as a Democrat?
Rick | 8:37 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Since when are Fineman and Wallis experts on anything that matters! Don't make me laugh. Try judging a man on his character from those who know him best. Not on some media hack who writes for a living. Not on some one whose political views are left-leaning from the very start. Judge a man on his record, his personal integrity, his character. I can find a long list of so-called media experts who lambasted Mitt. Does that even really mean anything? All we really know about politics is that far too many voters hear a statement by someone in the media and accept it as truth. Media folks should stick to reporting the news and not twisting it or taking short clips totally out of context. Sure, take Fineman and Wallis or Klein and Kinsey as gospel if you choose. Just makes you the fool.
Ernest T. Bass | 8:44 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
For generations the Church as said "we're a peculiar people"
That thought has come back to bite it in the end. Mitt tried to fit in as best he could, but was hamstrung by the peculiarity of his faith.
It's too bad, but he wasn't the best option anyway.
dejelie | 8:45 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Yes, the media loved the controversial religion angle and happily fed that beast. I am grateful for the few who stepped forward to counter the craziness, but they were few and far between.

One can't ignore the fact that anti-Mormon preaching goes out over the pulpit routinely in the heartland, something I learned as a military spouse for many years and now retired to a midsize southern city. I like to point out, when appropriate, that one has to wonder when a religion diverts so many resources from promoting the faith to bashing that of others. Still, negative efforts directed at the LDS church can have positive outcomes. People of goodwill can see the difference between those who detract and demean when most LDS are trying to live a life of good conscience.

Why is Gov. Romney held to a higher standard in terms of flip-flopping than the other mostly professional politician candidates in the field? He wasn't a perfect candidate, but I'm not unhappy Gov. Romney was willing to stick his neck out.
Anonymous | 8:46 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
How sad that Republicans have not evolved enough to be able to but religious bigotry aside so that we can nominate the best Presidential candidate. Here the Democrats have a black man and a woman running which is great but we discriminate because someone practices a religion different than ours. Maybe we as Republicans deserve to lose the White House this year until we can become united and but bigotry behind us.
Riley | 8:49 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
I wonder if those who refer to us as a "cult" turn away any aid that comes into their community when the "cult" responds with help? I would hope our "Christian" responses to their needs will still be accepted when/if a need arises. I for one do not specify for my small monthly donation NOT be used for those who despitefully and verbally tear down those who claim to know more about us that we do ourselves.
We are brothers and sisters whether they want us to be or not.
Phil | 8:55 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
I think life in some respects was easier for members of the LDS church when we were not caught in the middle. Not when we have to please the world and our convictions. Back when the church was the outsider, and didn't want in. I just now want a president who will cut spending, and not bankrupt the next generation.
Dutchman | 8:51 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Don't get me wrong, I am all for helping people and pouring millions of dollars of humanitarian aide into areas that need our help but I can't help feeling that the next time a hurricane or tornado or some other disaster hits the southern states that the Mormon relief funds should go somewhere else. If the southern folks can be duped by their ministers into torpedoing a good man like Romney why should our hard earned aide go there? The aide is more appreciated in Indonesia, a Muslim country hit by a tsunami than it is by these southern baptists. I just hope McCain doesn't put Huckabee on the ticket with him. What goes around comes around. I will not vote for any ticket with Huckabee on it.
Rick | 8:52 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
To "used to be". So you are the expert on LDS history. Where is your PH. D. ? I have many friends who have Ph.D.and Masters degrees. These individuals have made the study of LDS history and doctrine almost their entire career. Now you pretend to know deep dark hidden secrets from LDS Church history. You assume that we are all ignorant dupes who know nothing of the origin and early history of our faith. Choose to believe as you wish but let me just shed some light on your dark parade. You will certainly continue down this road you have chosen. That is your privilege. As for those of us who are LDS we are so far past this petty "stuff" to which you refer.
Sharron | 8:56 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
The only group who consider Mormons, Christian are Mormons,do a web search of mainline Christian and Catholic articlesof faith.

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