Reader comments
Mitt 'no shrinking violet' about faith
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SunofaMitt | 12:52 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Thanks goodness a Mitt story! It has been several minutes since the DMN ran one!
Chuck L | 1:42 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
It will be interesting to see how he handles the movie about the Mountain
Meadows Massacre to be released on 9/11.
Joseph W | 2:52 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
I wasn't sure if I really believed that Mitt Romney was sincere in the
positions that he's taken, but after seeing that youtube video my
confidence greatly increased.
Comments continue below
L.G.R. | 6:33 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Mitt is a great man, proven by the life he has lived, and the words he says.
Only "nit pickers" can say otherwise.
Bill Underwood | 7:54 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Anyone who has been a Bishop should not have ever been confused about abortion.
LTR | 8:15 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Don't you mean "Mitt pickers"?
R. M. | 8:15 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
I admire Mitt Romney. I feel when someone is honorable to their Spouse who
should mean the world to them then they have a better chance of being that way
with the country. Doesn't believing in Christ and trying to follow his
teachings mean you are a Christian?
Slim | 8:26 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Contrary to what his opponents and the media say, I must say Mitt seems to be
the most genuine and grounded of all the candidates for me. I have been very
impressed with the way he takes on all questions and doesn't run away from
people that want to confront him. I think he would make a great president.
R.B.B. | 8:50 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
The question of whether Mitt is a Christian, should be simply answered:
"not if you narrowly define it as a Nicene Creed Christian. I believe that
Early Christians (1st through 3rd century, before the Emperor Constantine) would
agree with my understanding of God and Jesus Christ. I have a broader
definition than some: I consider anyone following the Lord's teachings and
consider Him divine as a Christian."
peggy | 8:56 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
No other presidential candidate has had to give a speech defending his personal
beliefs. Why start now?
Levin | 8:59 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Bill, "Anyone who has been a Bishop" should not be confused about the
morality of abortion. Anyone who knows the LDS Church's stand on the
legality of abortion indeed has privileged information.
Nate | 9:07 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Hey Chuck L,
You are right. Because Mitt was involved in the Mountain Meadows Massacre, it will be interesting to see what his reaction in.
By the way, what was your reaction when such movies like "Uncle Tom's Cabin" or "Race to Freedom - The Story of the Underground Railroad" came out?
Good grief, people! Are you seriously going to tie in an incident like this, that has very little to do with modern Mormonism? If everyone posting on this sight went back in their history far enough, you would each be able to find an incident that you aren't too happy about.
You are right. Because Mitt was involved in the Mountain Meadows Massacre, it will be interesting to see what his reaction in.
By the way, what was your reaction when such movies like "Uncle Tom's Cabin" or "Race to Freedom - The Story of the Underground Railroad" came out?
Good grief, people! Are you seriously going to tie in an incident like this, that has very little to do with modern Mormonism? If everyone posting on this sight went back in their history far enough, you would each be able to find an incident that you aren't too happy about.
Jim J in Cedar Rapids | 9:08 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
I've attended two "Ask Mitt Anything" events in CR now and each
time have come away more impressed with Governor Romney. He does stand by his
beliefs but is also a political realist.
I do not believe, from his statements, he was ever confused about abortion. I believe he had to take a stance that was supportive of the constituency majority in his state when he ran for governor. As in life, gaining a greater understanding of the issues surrounding abortion (not just the moral but also the legal and medical) I think has helped refine his position and establish it as he is now espousing. Being a former Bishop or Stake President has no bearing on that.
I don't think I've ever heard him say that he is in favor of abortion, only that he recognizes the legal right of women to have one...under the law. That is different than saying you believe in abortion - which he's never done.
So, my vote is for Mitt and Ann! See you Saturday at the Straw Poll.
I do not believe, from his statements, he was ever confused about abortion. I believe he had to take a stance that was supportive of the constituency majority in his state when he ran for governor. As in life, gaining a greater understanding of the issues surrounding abortion (not just the moral but also the legal and medical) I think has helped refine his position and establish it as he is now espousing. Being a former Bishop or Stake President has no bearing on that.
I don't think I've ever heard him say that he is in favor of abortion, only that he recognizes the legal right of women to have one...under the law. That is different than saying you believe in abortion - which he's never done.
So, my vote is for Mitt and Ann! See you Saturday at the Straw Poll.
S.D.K. | 9:27 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
I realize the folks in Utah have 'faith' and a great belief in their
religion, but it IS 2007, and we need someone to lead us who is also grounded in
reality.
A man in this day and age who doesnt 'get' evolution,
or someone who doesnt 'get' the reason the founding fathers demanded a true separation of church and state,
is not what this country or this planet needs right now.
We need reality.
A man in this day and age who doesnt 'get' evolution,
or someone who doesnt 'get' the reason the founding fathers demanded a true separation of church and state,
is not what this country or this planet needs right now.
We need reality.
Jean Eyre | 9:57 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
In regard to S.D.K.'s comment "I relize the folks in Utah have
"faith" and a great belief in their religion..." Doesn't
this person realize that there are millions of Mormons who DON'T live in
Utah. There are Mormons everywhere in this country not just Utah. We're
your neighbors and we try to live good lives. Hey, and not all Mormons are
Republicans. Get informed!
j.j. | 9:59 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
S.D.K.: "A man in this day and age who doesnt 'get' evolution,
or someone who doesnt 'get' the reason the founding fathers demanded a true separation of church and state,
is not what this country or this planet needs right now.
We need reality."
These two comments illustrate how far many in this country have come in their understanding of 1)what the Founding Fathers meant by "separation of church and state" and 2)the emphasis placed on "evolution" as an integral part of society -
Anyone who has studied the history of the founding know that the founders did not want an officially recognized church, such as the Church of England was. Lawyers from the ACLU and others who have demonstrated hostility to Christianity have worked feverishly to eliminate Christianity from not only the history of this country, but from all public utterances. The difference between NO Christianity and no recognition of "a" Church as the official religion are too great to be misunderstood.
With regard to evolution, not acknowledging that "man/life began by evolving" is strictly a personal belief, as the science to prove evolution has NOT been done beyond a shadow of a doubt, though of course many would dispute that, just as some have stated unequivocally that "mankind causing global warming is true with no arguments".
or someone who doesnt 'get' the reason the founding fathers demanded a true separation of church and state,
is not what this country or this planet needs right now.
We need reality."
These two comments illustrate how far many in this country have come in their understanding of 1)what the Founding Fathers meant by "separation of church and state" and 2)the emphasis placed on "evolution" as an integral part of society -
Anyone who has studied the history of the founding know that the founders did not want an officially recognized church, such as the Church of England was. Lawyers from the ACLU and others who have demonstrated hostility to Christianity have worked feverishly to eliminate Christianity from not only the history of this country, but from all public utterances. The difference between NO Christianity and no recognition of "a" Church as the official religion are too great to be misunderstood.
With regard to evolution, not acknowledging that "man/life began by evolving" is strictly a personal belief, as the science to prove evolution has NOT been done beyond a shadow of a doubt, though of course many would dispute that, just as some have stated unequivocally that "mankind causing global warming is true with no arguments".
Tom | 10:03 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
S.D.K.
The founding fathers were almost all influenced greatly by religion. There is a difference between not having a state sponsored religion and banning anyone but an atheist from positions in our government (although I would argue that atheism is just another religion). I also don't understand why our President needs to "get" evolution. The "reality" is that it's called a theory for a reason. While evolution is certainly a possibility, I don't know of anyone who has claimed to have "proven it."
The founding fathers were almost all influenced greatly by religion. There is a difference between not having a state sponsored religion and banning anyone but an atheist from positions in our government (although I would argue that atheism is just another religion). I also don't understand why our President needs to "get" evolution. The "reality" is that it's called a theory for a reason. While evolution is certainly a possibility, I don't know of anyone who has claimed to have "proven it."
Nate | 10:04 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Hey Chuck L,
You are right. Because Mitt was involved in the Mountain Meadows Massacre, it will be interesting to see what his reaction in.
By the way, what was your reaction when such movies like "Uncle Tom's Cabin" or "Race to Freedom - The Story of the Underground Railroad" came out?
Good grief, people! Are you seriously going to tie in an incident like this, that has very little to do with modern Mormonism? If everyone posting on this sight went back in their history far enough, you would each be able to find an incident that you aren't too happy about.
You are right. Because Mitt was involved in the Mountain Meadows Massacre, it will be interesting to see what his reaction in.
By the way, what was your reaction when such movies like "Uncle Tom's Cabin" or "Race to Freedom - The Story of the Underground Railroad" came out?
Good grief, people! Are you seriously going to tie in an incident like this, that has very little to do with modern Mormonism? If everyone posting on this sight went back in their history far enough, you would each be able to find an incident that you aren't too happy about.
Nate | 10:06 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Hey Chuck L,
You are right. Because Mitt was involved in the Mountain Meadows Massacre, it will be interesting to see what his reaction in.
By the way, what was your reaction when such movies like "Uncle Tom's Cabin" or "Race to Freedom - The Story of the Underground Railroad" came out?
Good grief, people! Are you seriously going to tie in an incident like this, that has very little to do with modern Mormonism? If everyone posting on this sight went back in their history far enough, you would each be able to find an incident that you aren't too happy about.
You are right. Because Mitt was involved in the Mountain Meadows Massacre, it will be interesting to see what his reaction in.
By the way, what was your reaction when such movies like "Uncle Tom's Cabin" or "Race to Freedom - The Story of the Underground Railroad" came out?
Good grief, people! Are you seriously going to tie in an incident like this, that has very little to do with modern Mormonism? If everyone posting on this sight went back in their history far enough, you would each be able to find an incident that you aren't too happy about.
JR | 10:21 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
S.D.K., evolution, like all theories, is exactly that - theory, not fact. Not
'getting' evolution doesn't mean that he or anyone else who
believes in divine creation doesn't understand evolution or give merit to
some of its elements. It simply implies disbelief that those so opposed to an
irrational or "unrealistic" belief in a God would put so much of their
trust in that which itself has yet to be proven as stable, factual and indeed
unchanging. I would caution such hasty argumentation or conclusion making. Look
at the man, look at his positions, look at his track record and make your
conclusions based on his qualifications for being president.
TIto | 10:23 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Sorry, I just don't care what religion the president is. Personally, I
think a muslim president would be pretty cool because then the middle east
wouldn't know what to think of us. I don't care about gay rights or
abortion. Let them get married or not, dont care. Abortion? So what, it
doesn't affect me unless it happens in my family.
I'm not a big fan of forcing my beliefs on anyone else...and from what I know of the bible, Christians really shouldn't either. It threatens them with hell or something if they do.
I'm not a big fan of forcing my beliefs on anyone else...and from what I know of the bible, Christians really shouldn't either. It threatens them with hell or something if they do.
Carl | 10:28 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
He will handle the movie like I will. "I was not there" seems like a
reasonable explanation to most of us. God will judge the matter.
Regarding faith, it takes as much faith to believe in the parting of the Red Sea, the manna from heaven, the brazen serpent, the water into wine, the raising of Lazarus, the gushing waters, the wrestle with the angel, David-1, Goliath-0, the burning bush and other miracles as it does to believe Joseph's account of the first vision. Proof comes by witness of the spirit on all of these, not first-hand accounts. And yet--Joseph's WAS a first-hand account!
Regarding faith, it takes as much faith to believe in the parting of the Red Sea, the manna from heaven, the brazen serpent, the water into wine, the raising of Lazarus, the gushing waters, the wrestle with the angel, David-1, Goliath-0, the burning bush and other miracles as it does to believe Joseph's account of the first vision. Proof comes by witness of the spirit on all of these, not first-hand accounts. And yet--Joseph's WAS a first-hand account!
Elias | 10:30 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
I cant believe the idiocy. Not only is the concept of Mitt being a reasonable
candidate for the presidency completely ludicrous, but the gall of the people
commenting on what our founding fathers "intended" when they mandated
the separation of church and state. If you think for ONE second that Mitt is
going to keep his faith out of his policies, then you are a fool that probably
believed Bush when he said Iraq had WMD.
Tracy | 10:44 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Elias,
If you think that Mitt, will let his faith dictate his politics, then you are FOOL, who knows nothing about the churches take on politics. The church never encourages people to vote on issues or for candidates. You should be more concerned about Evangelicals who stick thier noses into every aspect of politics they can, and preach from the pulpits who and what to vote for.
If you think that Mitt, will let his faith dictate his politics, then you are FOOL, who knows nothing about the churches take on politics. The church never encourages people to vote on issues or for candidates. You should be more concerned about Evangelicals who stick thier noses into every aspect of politics they can, and preach from the pulpits who and what to vote for.
S. Noel | 10:51 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
The words "seperation" and "Church" and "State"
are no where to be found together in the Constitution or its Amendments. Read
it, then comment.
Iowason | 10:54 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Honesty, integrity, strength, intelligence, wisdom... good qualities for a
president...regardless of the religion, party, race... Mitt seems to have them
all... but so does Rudy...
Cindy | 10:56 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
He's definitely a Christian. The Church he belongs to is The Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Key word...Jesus Christ. He's a
believer and a follower. He's a shining example of what a true Christian
is. He is an example of acceptance of all and love for all.
And about his stance on Abortion, no one knows the specifics of any particular case he is talking about or that others are throwing at him. No One. Of course he believes in the Right to Life. When he is faced with a situation on the matter, no one has the details on specific issues. People need to refrain from being judgmental. Be sensitive and open minded and know that what he says rings true.
Romney wants to lead a country. He doesn't want to impose his religion on anyone. All have the right to worship who and what they will. It's a free country. He doesn't want to tell others how to live. He wants to restore what this country was founded on. If everyone could look at that instead of personal issues in regards to his religion, it would be easier to see the forest for the trees and focus on what this presidency is all about. Let's get to the issues and leave his religion out of it.
And about his stance on Abortion, no one knows the specifics of any particular case he is talking about or that others are throwing at him. No One. Of course he believes in the Right to Life. When he is faced with a situation on the matter, no one has the details on specific issues. People need to refrain from being judgmental. Be sensitive and open minded and know that what he says rings true.
Romney wants to lead a country. He doesn't want to impose his religion on anyone. All have the right to worship who and what they will. It's a free country. He doesn't want to tell others how to live. He wants to restore what this country was founded on. If everyone could look at that instead of personal issues in regards to his religion, it would be easier to see the forest for the trees and focus on what this presidency is all about. Let's get to the issues and leave his religion out of it.
Cyndy | 11:07 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Elias and Carl-
First you need to learn to distiguish between media propaganda and the truth. The mountain meadows movie is the writer and directors interpretation of events and in no way has anything to do with Mitt Romney. Also, is it wrong to have a belief in God? Last time I looked at a dollar bill the words "In God We Trust" was written on it so don't go spouting off on the intended meaning of the seperation of church and state. The founding Fathers believed in God and the only worries we should have is the modern interpretation of separation of church and state. I would hope that whoever gets voted in has a belief in God and would not just lean upon their own understanding in leading this country.
First you need to learn to distiguish between media propaganda and the truth. The mountain meadows movie is the writer and directors interpretation of events and in no way has anything to do with Mitt Romney. Also, is it wrong to have a belief in God? Last time I looked at a dollar bill the words "In God We Trust" was written on it so don't go spouting off on the intended meaning of the seperation of church and state. The founding Fathers believed in God and the only worries we should have is the modern interpretation of separation of church and state. I would hope that whoever gets voted in has a belief in God and would not just lean upon their own understanding in leading this country.
Fran | 11:12 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
S.D.K.
Are you saying Mitt doesn't 'get' evolution because he accepts it?
http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/05/11/romney-elaborates-on-evolution/
Either you don't accept evolution or you are not informed on Mitt.
Are you saying Mitt doesn't 'get' evolution because he accepts it?
http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/05/11/romney-elaborates-on-evolution/
Either you don't accept evolution or you are not informed on Mitt.
angel youngblood-chick | 11:35 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
I will speak under my real name, no shame for my opinion. Mitt will make a good
President for the reasons he states, 1. He cares about this country and the
citizens within it, 2. He believes in God.,3He will really try to do good for
America and see that it cares for its own before caring for the rest of the
world.,4 He has proven himself as honest,faithful,loyal and inteligent enough to
know his faults and admit them.
He will get my vote and many more because of these quailities.Not because of his chosen church or his good looks. He appears to be the best man for the job.
He will get my vote and many more because of these quailities.Not because of his chosen church or his good looks. He appears to be the best man for the job.
Kaddie | 11:50 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
I sorta think this religion issue is like voting straight democrat or republican
just because your family or you always has.... I look at the person running for
office and his values, his work ethic, his accomplishments. Mitt Romney has them
all. His devotion to his family, his commitment to living his religion, his
accomplishments in every job he has undertaken should speak volumes. Those are
the types of things voters should be looking at. I believe the fact that he
commits, respects and follows through on that commitment should be what voters
consider when choosing the leader of our country. Lots of lives are being
intrusted here. So isn't time we look beyond the religion thing and if we
can't, why aren't we treating all of the canidates the same?
Jake in Minnesota | 11:50 a.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Personally I'm one Mormon who thinks Mitt is not fit for the job...
don't reply on why because I simply do not have the time to display the
MANY issues with good ol' Mitt!
Raymond Takashi Swenson | 12:23 p.m. Aug. 10, 2007
The great virtue of the discussion at the radio station that is preserved on
YouTube is that Romney explains clearly, to anyone who pays attention, that
there is a clear demarcation between what HE is obligated to do as a voluntary
member of the LDS Church and what, as a government official, he can require
(with the coercive power of government) of people who have never made such a
commitment. Romney is aided in making that distinction because the LDS Church
itself maintains that distinction, as it specifically does in its statemehnt on
abortion, explaining that it does NOT tell members what stance they should take
on how their own nations (all 160 of them) should regulate that practice.
Unlike the National Conference of Catholic Bishops, Mormon leaders do not have discussions on political issues and issue policy recommendations on things like capital punishment or "just war theory". Unlike the Black Protestant churches that have offered their pulpits to Bill Clinton and Al Gore, they do not let their churches to be used for any partisan political activity. Unlike many Evangelical churches during the 2004 elections, they do NOT release their membership lists to political parties, and do NOT issue "voter guides" on various issues and the candidates' stands on each.
Unlike the Southern Baptist Convention, the LDS Church is an international organization with half its members outside the US, most speaking languages other than English. The Church does not want to get involved in any political issue that does not directly infringe the freedom of its members to worship and live as Mormons, and that goes for the USA just as much as it does for Ghana (where the regime for a time banned Mormon missionaries from coming into the country based on bad advice from ministers in competing churches), Mongolia, Hong Kong, Mexico, and Ukraine.
People who think Romney "must be ignorant" because he is a Mormon are claiming their deduction (based on their own ignorance about Mormon beliefs) has more intellectual validity than the obvious fact that Romney is demonstrably in the 99th percentile of Americans in intelligence: Harvard JD degree, Harvard MBA degree, a self-made millionaire through SELLING GOOD ADVICE to major businesses, a leader who brought together fractious local, national and international parties to pull off the 2002 Olympics (at a rare profit!), and who was elected in Massachusetts (AKA Kennedy-Kerry Land) by people who are NOT Mormon, and who include the faculties of many of America's leading universities. If you can get through that gauntlet of politically correct know-it-alls as a Republican (no intelligence test required for Democrats), you have to be impressively smart and articulate. Mitt's rationality is on display in the radio show exchange.
People who think they can do some kind of "gotcha" to try to show that Romney is not a "good Mormon" are simply demonstrating their own utter ignorance of Mormon beliefs. People who think Mormons are not "Christian" in the same way that Eastern Orthodox are Christian (who disagree with parts of the Nicene Creed, as Mormons do, and who have continuously taught the doctrine of "theosis"--that salvation consists of men becoming like Christ, like the Mormons do) are displaying their ignorance. Anyone named Stephanopoulos should be more careful about ridiculing a member of a minority Christian religion. After all, nobody was testing Massachusetts Governor and presidential candidate Mike Dukakis on his Greek Orthodox catechism.
Unlike the National Conference of Catholic Bishops, Mormon leaders do not have discussions on political issues and issue policy recommendations on things like capital punishment or "just war theory". Unlike the Black Protestant churches that have offered their pulpits to Bill Clinton and Al Gore, they do not let their churches to be used for any partisan political activity. Unlike many Evangelical churches during the 2004 elections, they do NOT release their membership lists to political parties, and do NOT issue "voter guides" on various issues and the candidates' stands on each.
Unlike the Southern Baptist Convention, the LDS Church is an international organization with half its members outside the US, most speaking languages other than English. The Church does not want to get involved in any political issue that does not directly infringe the freedom of its members to worship and live as Mormons, and that goes for the USA just as much as it does for Ghana (where the regime for a time banned Mormon missionaries from coming into the country based on bad advice from ministers in competing churches), Mongolia, Hong Kong, Mexico, and Ukraine.
People who think Romney "must be ignorant" because he is a Mormon are claiming their deduction (based on their own ignorance about Mormon beliefs) has more intellectual validity than the obvious fact that Romney is demonstrably in the 99th percentile of Americans in intelligence: Harvard JD degree, Harvard MBA degree, a self-made millionaire through SELLING GOOD ADVICE to major businesses, a leader who brought together fractious local, national and international parties to pull off the 2002 Olympics (at a rare profit!), and who was elected in Massachusetts (AKA Kennedy-Kerry Land) by people who are NOT Mormon, and who include the faculties of many of America's leading universities. If you can get through that gauntlet of politically correct know-it-alls as a Republican (no intelligence test required for Democrats), you have to be impressively smart and articulate. Mitt's rationality is on display in the radio show exchange.
People who think they can do some kind of "gotcha" to try to show that Romney is not a "good Mormon" are simply demonstrating their own utter ignorance of Mormon beliefs. People who think Mormons are not "Christian" in the same way that Eastern Orthodox are Christian (who disagree with parts of the Nicene Creed, as Mormons do, and who have continuously taught the doctrine of "theosis"--that salvation consists of men becoming like Christ, like the Mormons do) are displaying their ignorance. Anyone named Stephanopoulos should be more careful about ridiculing a member of a minority Christian religion. After all, nobody was testing Massachusetts Governor and presidential candidate Mike Dukakis on his Greek Orthodox catechism.
Carol | 12:27 p.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Mitt's the man for the job. Period.
Richard in RI | 12:27 p.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Count me in as one who is a faithful Latter-Day-Saint, who thinks Mitt is the
second coming of George Bush-boy, and would serve America equally as bad as
ol'Georgie Pordgie has. After hearing him run for office for several years
and watching him in action as a governor, I don't know know what he
believes - other than he likes being rich and he wants to be the boss. Not
really good qualifications for a president - not matter how faithful he is.
Pablo Sierra | 12:30 p.m. Aug. 10, 2007
After sixteen years of politicians misleading America, is time for a change. We
need someone that will make America strong and bring decency to the White House,
Mitt Romney.
Owen in Texas | 1:27 p.m. Aug. 10, 2007
After reading all of the comments on Mitt, I think it would be good for everyone
who has doubts about Romney to do some studying and reading about him. I too had
doubts about his pedigree, especially on being elected governor to the REDDEST
state in the country where the people of such doubtful intelligence continue to
elect such noble statesmen as Ted "The Swimmer" Kennedy and John
Kerry. So I decided to read Hugh Hewitt's book "A Mormon In the White
House?" which is excellently researched and written by a non-Mormon. I
highly recommend it and believe that the sound reasoning of the American people
can still come thru with a little education before voting. Mitt is the real
deal and is the only man for the office.
By the way Richard: do people actually LIVE in RI???
By the way Richard: do people actually LIVE in RI???
J. | 2:05 p.m. Aug. 10, 2007
I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, and at first I
felt Romney maybe was not the right person for president. I look at Harry Reid,
and because I live in Nevada I see that he is not real, he says one thing with
the church and acts,does, and says, differently as a politician. As I have
studied Romney as a person my feelings right now are that he would make a great
president, and has the know how and the courage to get our nation out of a mess.
He is a great people person, and willing to take care of problems. I feel
that's what our country needs, religion doesn't matter. What religion
is all the other candidates, Romney is the only one that has been pulled out. I
really would like to know.
Me too | 2:10 p.m. Aug. 10, 2007
I was traveling abroad this summer. A couple we met at dinner asked where we
were from. When we told him, he asked if we were Mormon. I said we are. He said
he was from Mass. and was planning for the first time in his life to vote for a
Republican -- Mitt Romney. He commented on what a wonderful governor he was and
how impressed he is with him as a person.
LittleMe | 2:29 p.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Kaddie, I agree with parts of your post, ``I sorta think this religion issue is
like voting straight democrat or republican just because your family or you
always has....`` Unfortunately, I see a lot of mormons voting for Mitt for the
simple fact that he is a mormon, just like some African Americans will vote for
Mr. Obama or women for Mrs. Clinton. People need to inform themselves and find
out what the candidates bring to the table. I personally will not vote for Mr.
Romney because I disagree with many of his ideas including health care, and also
see his flip flopping on important issues as something scary...
Johnboy in Ogden UT | 3:00 p.m. Aug. 10, 2007
To Richard in RI. Its interesting and somewhat comical to me how individuals use
cheap grammar, personal attacks and intellectually inferior comments to support
an ideology or position and then expect the reader to acknowledge their thought
as having any relevance. While I hold no position regarding Gov Romney at this
point, I certainly won't let "Richards" inarticulate words sway
my decision.
dgr | 3:01 p.m. Aug. 10, 2007
SDK says someone who doesnt 'get' the reason the founding fathers
demanded a true separation of church and state,
You are all wet and are spouting myths. The founding fathers didn't demand a separation of church and state, as you imply.
The constitution prohibits Congress from creating a state religion, et. a national religion. This would mean everyone born here would automatically belong to this religion.
Thomas Jefferson wrote about a wall of separation. BUt he allpied it to the federal gov't. Not state gov'ts. MAtter of fact if you will read his letters you will see that he took liberally from early writings from many in Britain. BUT... he believed firmly that it was a State's right to combine religion and government.
fact are facts, these aren't the sound bites you seem to repeat from the tv news
You are all wet and are spouting myths. The founding fathers didn't demand a separation of church and state, as you imply.
The constitution prohibits Congress from creating a state religion, et. a national religion. This would mean everyone born here would automatically belong to this religion.
Thomas Jefferson wrote about a wall of separation. BUt he allpied it to the federal gov't. Not state gov'ts. MAtter of fact if you will read his letters you will see that he took liberally from early writings from many in Britain. BUT... he believed firmly that it was a State's right to combine religion and government.
fact are facts, these aren't the sound bites you seem to repeat from the tv news
JW | 3:08 p.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Iowason - you have got to be kidding if you think Rudy has honesty and integrity
- chat with his ex-wife. Integrity is having a code of morals and values - did
Rudy have that when cheating on his wife while serving as the Mayor of NYC?
MDJ | 3:59 p.m. Aug. 10, 2007
There is testimony to learn from through Mitt�s example.
You will get father telling people what they want to hear than by telling the
truth. Remember, George Bush telling us that he was against
�nation building?� Here you see you
get extra points by confirming people�s belief systems.
I�m chosen from a special family that belongs to the only
true church. This goes over better than someone saying
you�re delusional.
Mitt�s is the plastic politician to me. I�m rare. I believe it take no real character to tell people what they want to believe. I�m not god. I�m mature enough to accept that I�m wrong. The sun still comes up the next morning. I gave up the fantasy that my family was special and I don�t think it matters if you think you belong to the true church. If you believe in god, this will be god�s, call to make.
I love double standard. Mitt is a metaphor of double standards. It�s bad to use religion to decide whom you vote for. This is unless you�re LDS and you vote for Mitt because he is LDS. Voting against Mitt because you question the intentions of LDS hierarchy is wrong!
Kerry was a flip flopper. Mitt�s is constantly modifying by stands like a old farmer with his finger pointed toward heaven to see if the wind has changed direction.
Mitt�s is the plastic politician to me. I�m rare. I believe it take no real character to tell people what they want to believe. I�m not god. I�m mature enough to accept that I�m wrong. The sun still comes up the next morning. I gave up the fantasy that my family was special and I don�t think it matters if you think you belong to the true church. If you believe in god, this will be god�s, call to make.
I love double standard. Mitt is a metaphor of double standards. It�s bad to use religion to decide whom you vote for. This is unless you�re LDS and you vote for Mitt because he is LDS. Voting against Mitt because you question the intentions of LDS hierarchy is wrong!
Kerry was a flip flopper. Mitt�s is constantly modifying by stands like a old farmer with his finger pointed toward heaven to see if the wind has changed direction.
Rudy | 4:40 p.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Thanks JW - I concur. As a former NYer, I have enjoyed Rudy as a leading figure
in NYC, especially during the crucial times of post-9/11 (although reports on
his decisions at the time are shedding some light on where he wasn't doing
such a great job--a la safety of city recovery workers). I must say that when a
politician can't be honest/faithful to their spouse/relationship, it should
be a red flag for who they are as a leader. If you can cross the people closest
to you, how can you be trusted with the future of an entire nation?
Where I stand now, I'm leaning towards Mitt Romney for 08. As a current MA resident (aware of both his business and political doings in this state), I feel confident with him as a candidate for moving our country forward.
Where I stand now, I'm leaning towards Mitt Romney for 08. As a current MA resident (aware of both his business and political doings in this state), I feel confident with him as a candidate for moving our country forward.
R.B.B. | 4:45 p.m. Aug. 10, 2007
The question of whether Mitt is a Christian, should be simply answered:
"not if you narrowly define it as a Nicene Creed Christian. I believe that
Early Christians (1st through 3rd century, before the Emperor Constantine) would
agree with my understanding of God and Jesus Christ. I have a broader
definition than some: I consider anyone following the Lord's teachings and
consider Him divine as a Christian."
Duane Hansen | 7:01 p.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Mitt Romney is responding the right way. He is campaigning for President of the U.S. and his constituency goes beyond Mormons and Utah.
In Mass, he did not endorse abortion, he was just following and upholding a bad law beyond his control.
He is so smooth, smart and impressive and the more he talks and speaks the better. The more people get to hear him, the higher he will stand compared to the other candidates in both parties.
MittForMeAndMine
Cary, NC
DLG | 7:39 p.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Many years ago, I had a poli-sci professor who said a candidate for public
office would commit political suicide by attempting to educate his (or her)
constituents. I didn't buy it then and I don't buy it now. With
respect to the Mormon "issue": Why not simply invite those who feel
it is important to research Mr. Romney's stand on the "issue" by
researching the issue itself. The keystone of the Mormon Faith is the book that
bears the same name.
All the candidates are vying to be the CEO of the United States. This requires skills (I exclude experience on purpose) to manage...through delegation...operations (budget and procedures, efficiency, fiscal management), sales and marketing (foreign trade and foreign policy), human resource management (health, welfare and education). In addition to skills are traits. Resolve, trust, compassion and integrity (in a word...leadership).
An educated contituency, confronting the candidates in a public forum, is the best way to see who shines and who wilts. The unscripted format used in the democratic "debate" was most entertaining. Kudos to the Dems for stepping up to the plate first. I can't wait for the September edition...and hope that we will see this format continue and improve.
All the candidates are vying to be the CEO of the United States. This requires skills (I exclude experience on purpose) to manage...through delegation...operations (budget and procedures, efficiency, fiscal management), sales and marketing (foreign trade and foreign policy), human resource management (health, welfare and education). In addition to skills are traits. Resolve, trust, compassion and integrity (in a word...leadership).
An educated contituency, confronting the candidates in a public forum, is the best way to see who shines and who wilts. The unscripted format used in the democratic "debate" was most entertaining. Kudos to the Dems for stepping up to the plate first. I can't wait for the September edition...and hope that we will see this format continue and improve.
Me | 9:24 p.m. Aug. 10, 2007
So many nonsense are being said about Mitt Romney, about whether he is Christian
or not? What the Mormons believe? How about looking at Mr. Romney and what he
has done, Thats what we can see and judge him by, 1. Graduated first on his
class from one the top school in the nation
2. Self made Millionaire through hard work
3. Turn an almost disastrous olympic to a very
successful one
4. Became a Governor of one the most liberal state
in the nation, while being one turned it to
smooth running state.
Only one thing now "HOWS EVERYONE ELSE DOING?
WHAT DO THEY HAVE TO COMPARE WITH THAT.
by the way "remove the beam from your eyes, then you can see clearly to judge him" ....thats from the bible by the way.
2. Self made Millionaire through hard work
3. Turn an almost disastrous olympic to a very
successful one
4. Became a Governor of one the most liberal state
in the nation, while being one turned it to
smooth running state.
Only one thing now "HOWS EVERYONE ELSE DOING?
WHAT DO THEY HAVE TO COMPARE WITH THAT.
by the way "remove the beam from your eyes, then you can see clearly to judge him" ....thats from the bible by the way.
Bob C | 10:00 p.m. Aug. 10, 2007
Personally, I would like to hear more about his achievements / tenure as Mass.
governor and his political career and LESS about his religion...
And BTW - to the poster(s) complaining "why does Mitt have to give a speech 'defining' his religion, no one else has?" that's not exactly true.
John F Kennedy "had" to do the same thing when questions were raised about his faith (Catholic) and was his "allegiance" to his country or to his faith... in fact, the "nitpickers" back then went around saying if elected Kennedy was going to take his "orders" from Rome and the Pope...
So, it's not the first time this has happened.
And BTW - to the poster(s) complaining "why does Mitt have to give a speech 'defining' his religion, no one else has?" that's not exactly true.
John F Kennedy "had" to do the same thing when questions were raised about his faith (Catholic) and was his "allegiance" to his country or to his faith... in fact, the "nitpickers" back then went around saying if elected Kennedy was going to take his "orders" from Rome and the Pope...
So, it's not the first time this has happened.
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Charlie Neibergall, Associated
Presidential candidate Mitt Romney pours a milkshake Wednesday at the Wilton Candy Kitchen in Wilton, Iowa. He is campaigning for Saturday's GOP straw poll.
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