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Reid gets warm reception at BYU
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Sam | 10:29 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
Where was the coverage about Reed's visit and speech? I don't get
much media so I may have missed it. When Cheney visited BYU there was months of
coverage and advance notice. You couldn't pick up a news paper or listen
to a news report with out it being mentioned. I would have attended Reid's
speech had I know he was going to be here.
I am an independent voter but usually tend to vote Republican. But I do like to hear from both sides of the isle.
By the way--ANYONE BUT CANNON--for the second congressional district!
I am an independent voter but usually tend to vote Republican. But I do like to hear from both sides of the isle.
By the way--ANYONE BUT CANNON--for the second congressional district!
ljl | 10:28 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
Interesting! When the Republican came to campus the Democrats protested. When
the Democrat came, the Republicans didn't protest. Just shows how much
more respectful and open-minded the Republican are.
Comments continue below
BYU Prof | 10:30 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
Senator Reid's talk was inspiring. He was just as unapologetic about his
testimony as he was about his political views. I have heard nothing but good
from my colleagues here on campus, even those who disagree with Reid
politically.
Many of you commenters need to read or consider the article more carefully. First, he did not speak about Pres. Benson in the talk, but in off-the-cuff remarks to reporters afterwards. And he didn't criticize PRES. Benson, the prophet, at all, but BROTHER Benson and SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE Benson, who was very outspoken (and very, very right-wing) before becoming the president. It is public record (read the McKay bio) that as a junior general authority Benson had to be reined in by the brethren several times for preaching his personal political opinions rather than doctrine.
If you have a problem understanding how Reid can reconcile his testimony and his politics, you really need to reassess what "testimony" means. If you see abortion as a moral issue but not war, you need to read the New Testament more carefully.
Many of you commenters need to read or consider the article more carefully. First, he did not speak about Pres. Benson in the talk, but in off-the-cuff remarks to reporters afterwards. And he didn't criticize PRES. Benson, the prophet, at all, but BROTHER Benson and SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE Benson, who was very outspoken (and very, very right-wing) before becoming the president. It is public record (read the McKay bio) that as a junior general authority Benson had to be reined in by the brethren several times for preaching his personal political opinions rather than doctrine.
If you have a problem understanding how Reid can reconcile his testimony and his politics, you really need to reassess what "testimony" means. If you see abortion as a moral issue but not war, you need to read the New Testament more carefully.
BYU Grad | 10:33 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
It is sad that members of this church confuse different views on policy with
faithfulness. Senate Reid said it all when he commented that: "I don't
have to answer to any of them. When I go to get my (temple) recommend,
they're never present." Are we so quick to pass judgment on a good
faithful recommend holding Latter-day Saint. If you want to point fingers look
at the Romney�s and their liberal leaning ideas on social
issues (before they switched). But no one mentions that because he has an R
behind his name. While Senator Reid a pro-life and ani-gay marriage Democrat
gets all the abusive rhetoric. It is time for Mormons to leave a party that a
majority of it's members (Evangelical Christians) won't even vote for
one of us simply because we are LDS. Bigotry in its truest form. Mormons
aren't welcome in the Republican Party (outside of Utah) and never will be.
Kyle | 10:33 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
ldsboy,
If Reid would have spoken his beliefs purely as a politician, I could at least partly agree with you. He didn't. He used an LDS forum to try to use his LDS influence, to persuade other LDS persons to join him in his political agenda while criticizing former LDS leaders whom he probably feined to sustain at the time in order to get a temple recommend.
If Reid would have spoken his beliefs purely as a politician, I could at least partly agree with you. He didn't. He used an LDS forum to try to use his LDS influence, to persuade other LDS persons to join him in his political agenda while criticizing former LDS leaders whom he probably feined to sustain at the time in order to get a temple recommend.
For Dan RE PP&NS | 10:38 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
Dan, my comment RE PP&NS was in direct relation to socialism/communism.
Some parts of the book are incorrect; however, when a person is called and
sustained as a prophet and speaks from the pulpit under influence of the Holy
Spirit, shouldn't we pay attention (I recall a verse somewhere about that)?
Under such circumstances, aren't those statements duly considered
doctrinal (another verse somewhere)? Such leaders as Joseph Smith, Brigham
Young, John Taylor, Wilford Woodruff, Heber J. Grant, George Albert Smith, David
O. McKay, and more than a few of the apostles of the same time periods very
plainly stated that socialism and communism are the devil's counterfeit to
the Lord's plan. And yes, there are corrupt (and corruptible) people in
both major parties -- making it hard to support either one.
The Church has no position on politics (only moral issues). ALL persons of ALL political persuasions are welcomed into the Church.
Members of the Church in high political positions are just as susceptible to temptation as are everyone else (I think there's a verse on this, too). I have difficulty reconciling Reid's positions with statements from people I hold to be prophets of God.
The Church has no position on politics (only moral issues). ALL persons of ALL political persuasions are welcomed into the Church.
Members of the Church in high political positions are just as susceptible to temptation as are everyone else (I think there's a verse on this, too). I have difficulty reconciling Reid's positions with statements from people I hold to be prophets of God.
anonymous | 10:39 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
Some of these posts clearly show why Utah is considered the "Reddest of
states." Poor, ignorant people easily swayed by almost anything they are
told.
Anon | 10:40 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
The intellectual climate in the LDS church is not compatible with critical
thinking, and because of demographics and history, it pervades the state.
Emotion trumps rationality, and discussion degenerates into testimony or
vitriol. I'm glad that I don't live in Utah.
Kyle | 10:41 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
BYU-Prof
Maybe he can re-reconcile his politics with his testimony when political circumstances warrant. Maybe Mitt Romney could give him some hints. Professors like you are exactly the reason I don't encourage my children to go to BYU. I want my children to "stand for something", and to be consistent in their beliefs. Pro-choice and church membership are absolutely NOT compatible.
Maybe he can re-reconcile his politics with his testimony when political circumstances warrant. Maybe Mitt Romney could give him some hints. Professors like you are exactly the reason I don't encourage my children to go to BYU. I want my children to "stand for something", and to be consistent in their beliefs. Pro-choice and church membership are absolutely NOT compatible.
Thomas | 10:41 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
BYU Grad --
"Mormons aren't welcome in the Republican Party (outside of Utah) and never will be."
Hogwash. There's a boatload of Mormon Republican Congressmen and Senators from districts outside of Utah. And of course Massachusetts Republicans had no problem electing one Governor.
My impression is that it's a minority of evangelicals who would refuse to vote for a Mormon. It's also been my experience that for every evangelical conservative who objects to Mormons on theological grounds, there's at least one political liberal who would refuse to vote for a Mormon because of the Church's stances on gay marriage, abortion, etc., or because Mormons' allegedly far-fetched beliefs supposedly reflect an insufficient commitment to the liberal goddess Reason. (From which deity they regularly apostasize when science contradicts their own beliefs, but that's another story.)
"Mormons aren't welcome in the Republican Party (outside of Utah) and never will be."
Hogwash. There's a boatload of Mormon Republican Congressmen and Senators from districts outside of Utah. And of course Massachusetts Republicans had no problem electing one Governor.
My impression is that it's a minority of evangelicals who would refuse to vote for a Mormon. It's also been my experience that for every evangelical conservative who objects to Mormons on theological grounds, there's at least one political liberal who would refuse to vote for a Mormon because of the Church's stances on gay marriage, abortion, etc., or because Mormons' allegedly far-fetched beliefs supposedly reflect an insufficient commitment to the liberal goddess Reason. (From which deity they regularly apostasize when science contradicts their own beliefs, but that's another story.)
Leon | 10:43 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
Pardon me, "anonymous." Don't you mean ignernt?
rcronk | 10:48 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
It's true that we should not judge Reid himself, but we can judge his
fruits. It's true that there are problems in all parties and with all
politicians - we're all imperfect. I think the thing that brings people
out to post here and condemn Reid is that he's a high profile Mormon who is
doing things that people don't agree with and that don't seem to match
the gospel principles they hold to. They could just as easily rail on Bush for
debt, border security, etc.
I think it's OK to have dissent. In fact, I think it's healthy if kept civil. It's OK to judge fruits, reject, and stand up against what we think is wrong - if it's kept civil. I don't think it's right to sit back and remain silent when we see something wrong.
P.S. I think it's really funny to watch the people here who have said "don't judge" and how they themselves are judging the people who they claim are judging. lol.
I think it's OK to have dissent. In fact, I think it's healthy if kept civil. It's OK to judge fruits, reject, and stand up against what we think is wrong - if it's kept civil. I don't think it's right to sit back and remain silent when we see something wrong.
P.S. I think it's really funny to watch the people here who have said "don't judge" and how they themselves are judging the people who they claim are judging. lol.
Thomas | 10:50 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
LDSboy -- If Reid is a "political moderate," I'll eat my hat.
Dale -- Re: "judge not," the whole context of that scripture was that we'll be judged with the same measure we judge. If I ever become as dishonest, shallow, and sniveling a weasel as Senator Reid, I will readily confess to the world that any judgment of me as such will be entirely deserved.
And it's not because Reid has the temerity to be a Democrat. I actually somewhat admire one of my Democratic Senators, Dianne Feinstein. (I said "one.") Reid is simply not an honorable man, and my opinion wouldn't change if he had an (R) after his name.
Dale -- Re: "judge not," the whole context of that scripture was that we'll be judged with the same measure we judge. If I ever become as dishonest, shallow, and sniveling a weasel as Senator Reid, I will readily confess to the world that any judgment of me as such will be entirely deserved.
And it's not because Reid has the temerity to be a Democrat. I actually somewhat admire one of my Democratic Senators, Dianne Feinstein. (I said "one.") Reid is simply not an honorable man, and my opinion wouldn't change if he had an (R) after his name.
Rachel | 10:50 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
I agree with his statement that we need to forget about abortion, etc. only
because of what BYU student already mentioned... we believe in agency. But I
can't stand either party right now, so his assuming that republicans will
change to democrats because of Bush's mistakes... not me! I'm not
happy with the democrats in office either. I just want someone to actually do
what they are elected to do, their job! Instead, they focus on finger pointing
and arguing and a lot of empty promises.
anonymous | 10:52 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
"Just do as you are told and everything will be just fine" is the Utah
credo. Step outside the guidelines and you will be punished severely. Stay
within the lines - the lines are your friends. Stay within the lines - the lines
are your friends ...
(repeat as often as needed)
(repeat as often as needed)
Ethan | 10:54 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
It is a very good thing the LDS church does not endorse candidates or political
parties. Neither democrats nor republicans have all the answers and both are
extreme in their positions. There needs to be more meeting in the middle by
both sides and a presidential candidate from a third party.
Nelson Thomas | 10:55 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
Response to remarks by Brother Reed;
We do not have any right to compel others to be charitable by forcefully taking the fruits of their labors by taxation and giving it to others. The plan to force others to be good was Satins plan which we rejected in premortality. Brother Reed has a good heart and noble desires but his means to accomplish them are contrary to the fundamental principles of the gospel. Such a course is tantamount to slavery. Americans are the most charitable people on the face of the earth and give billions of dollars a year to charitable causes of their own freewill. In the LDS Church we can donate to Humanitarian Services, the Perpetual Education fund, and pay generous fast offerings to assist the poor. These programs are exceptionally well managed with virtually no waste. President Benson who Brother Reed disparaged to the national press after the assembly was a righteous man who understood these sacred principles better than Brother Reed.
We do not have any right to compel others to be charitable by forcefully taking the fruits of their labors by taxation and giving it to others. The plan to force others to be good was Satins plan which we rejected in premortality. Brother Reed has a good heart and noble desires but his means to accomplish them are contrary to the fundamental principles of the gospel. Such a course is tantamount to slavery. Americans are the most charitable people on the face of the earth and give billions of dollars a year to charitable causes of their own freewill. In the LDS Church we can donate to Humanitarian Services, the Perpetual Education fund, and pay generous fast offerings to assist the poor. These programs are exceptionally well managed with virtually no waste. President Benson who Brother Reed disparaged to the national press after the assembly was a righteous man who understood these sacred principles better than Brother Reed.
A.D. 34 | 11:00 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
"Beware of False prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but
inwardly they are ravening wolves..."
Beware of of those that call good, bad and evil, right. For me its easy to discern which is true.
Apostles and Prophets have led us astray? Gay marriage and Abortion are not important issues? Global warming and health care are the greatest issues facing us today?
Having just watched General Conference, the contrast in message could not be more clear.
Take Senator Reid's speech for what it was, a prominant Democrat leader sharing his beliefs. A good man, probably? An inspired religious leader, absolutely not.
For "ye shall know them by their fruits"
Beware of of those that call good, bad and evil, right. For me its easy to discern which is true.
Apostles and Prophets have led us astray? Gay marriage and Abortion are not important issues? Global warming and health care are the greatest issues facing us today?
Having just watched General Conference, the contrast in message could not be more clear.
Take Senator Reid's speech for what it was, a prominant Democrat leader sharing his beliefs. A good man, probably? An inspired religious leader, absolutely not.
For "ye shall know them by their fruits"
anonymous | 11:02 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
At the beginning of Bush's War on Iraq, President Hinckley said, "this
war is a just one." Not long afterwards he was invited to Washington to
receive a medal. It doesn't take an overworked imagination to connect the
dots and wonder if a political party is being endorsed.
Deeply Concerned | 11:02 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
I am amazed at the people who are saying BYU is a bastion of liberalism and that
they don't want their children to go there. What am I missing here? BYU
is considered one of the MOST conservative universities on the planet. Which
bubble would you rather your children to be educated in? Church teachings
encourage LDS members to live in the world, be engaged in civic issues, and be
connected to our community and neighbors (yet not be of the world). How can you
be engaged if you don't understand issues from multiple points of view?
How can we defend views and beliefs if we don't understand differing points
of view and how to counter opposing views? Also, there are some issues that are
ambiguous and we have no clear definitive guidance and a left to "be
anxiously engaged in a good cause" and "are not commanded in all
things."
The mentality that we should "hole up" and shelter ourselves from the outside world is deeply disturbing and actually goes contrary to the teachings of President Hinckley. Look at Colorado City as an example of the outcome of that mentality.
The mentality that we should "hole up" and shelter ourselves from the outside world is deeply disturbing and actually goes contrary to the teachings of President Hinckley. Look at Colorado City as an example of the outcome of that mentality.
Bocas Brain | 11:04 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
To those who see a huge struggle between religion and politics it may be a
surprise for you to know that you do FULLY EXPRESS your religion (your beliefs
or your faith) in how you are politically. What you really are is what you are
politically.
If you separate them then they can only operate in a mind that is compartmentalised or be in a state of schizoprenia.
If you separate them then they can only operate in a mind that is compartmentalised or be in a state of schizoprenia.
Sweeping generalites | 11:06 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
People on these pages seem to be making sweeping generalizations about each
other. No one says anything about voting for only the letter behind each name.
No one says Reid is a bad member and Hatch is good because of the letter behind
their name.
What a silly and simplistic argument. For those of you who think Christ doesn't sanction war at times, you don't know your scriptures very well. For those claiming not to judge others, again, you don't understand the scriptures. By their fruits ye shall know them.
For the people who flame that if you oppose Reid one is for Bush is ridiculous. One can oppose both!
For the Rush/Coulter haters out there, please provide concrete evidence of your assumptions. Then please provide evidence that MoveOn.org, Air America, Media Matters are not people with an agenda and spew propaganda. I think you've watched too much PMSNBC.
The issues are deep and widespread but the comments on these pages are just the little branches. Want to solve the issue, get to the roots and then you can strengthen the greatest country in the world!
What a silly and simplistic argument. For those of you who think Christ doesn't sanction war at times, you don't know your scriptures very well. For those claiming not to judge others, again, you don't understand the scriptures. By their fruits ye shall know them.
For the people who flame that if you oppose Reid one is for Bush is ridiculous. One can oppose both!
For the Rush/Coulter haters out there, please provide concrete evidence of your assumptions. Then please provide evidence that MoveOn.org, Air America, Media Matters are not people with an agenda and spew propaganda. I think you've watched too much PMSNBC.
The issues are deep and widespread but the comments on these pages are just the little branches. Want to solve the issue, get to the roots and then you can strengthen the greatest country in the world!
rcronk | 11:06 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
"We believe in agency" and therefore we should have no laws or
punishments? If someone kills, we should let it happen because "we believe
in agency"? I disagree.
If you saw someone trying to kill a defenseless child, would you let them because "we believe in agency"? Watch the defenseless fetus open it's mouth to scream as they chop it to pieces and tell me that's not one of God's children who just got their chance to live get killed and then tell me that we should not only let that happen but should support it. I couldn't disagree with you more.
It's a disgusting practice that should go the way of slavery. Most people now believe slavery is disgusting and that those who engage in it should be punished and I hope people will think the same of abortion some day and pass laws to punish those who engage in the act the same way we punish people who kill other people for convenience. With so many parents willing to adopt, why kill? For convenience and selfishness.
I do agree that it would be nice for politicians to do their job, represent the people, hold to correct values.
If you saw someone trying to kill a defenseless child, would you let them because "we believe in agency"? Watch the defenseless fetus open it's mouth to scream as they chop it to pieces and tell me that's not one of God's children who just got their chance to live get killed and then tell me that we should not only let that happen but should support it. I couldn't disagree with you more.
It's a disgusting practice that should go the way of slavery. Most people now believe slavery is disgusting and that those who engage in it should be punished and I hope people will think the same of abortion some day and pass laws to punish those who engage in the act the same way we punish people who kill other people for convenience. With so many parents willing to adopt, why kill? For convenience and selfishness.
I do agree that it would be nice for politicians to do their job, represent the people, hold to correct values.
Mo-Town | 11:08 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
Who cares that Reid is LDS, that's not the issue. There's a lot of
members of the church who are nothing short of political nut jobs. They may be
worthy, kind, great neighbors, the whole bit; but when it comes to the political
problems and realities we currently face, those on the left are absolutely
clueless. Great people, but politically stupid, Mormon or not.
And I don't mind the Left living in the same country as I do, as long as they're not in power. I have no problem shopping, hanging out or worshiping with a political nut as long as he/she isn't in a position to to impliment their absurdity
That is what makes Reid different. He is in position to sacrifice our country's security. He is in position to sacrifice our country's moral integrity. He is in position to waste people's time and resources with the myth that man is responsible for the slight increase in the earth's temperature
Great man. Dangerous political nut
And I don't mind the Left living in the same country as I do, as long as they're not in power. I have no problem shopping, hanging out or worshiping with a political nut as long as he/she isn't in a position to to impliment their absurdity
That is what makes Reid different. He is in position to sacrifice our country's security. He is in position to sacrifice our country's moral integrity. He is in position to waste people's time and resources with the myth that man is responsible for the slight increase in the earth's temperature
Great man. Dangerous political nut
Blake | 11:09 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
To everyone here that is questioning if you can be a good Mormon and Democrat:
YOU DO REALIZE THAT YOU ARE GOING AGAINST CHURCH DOCTRINE AND TEACHING?
Church leaders read the same script every year telling people to be involved in politics, regardless of what party it is. Why are you able to disagree on this point and be a good Mormon, but not disagree with a stance like gay marriage. QUIT PICKING AND CHOOSING!
Church leaders read the same script every year telling people to be involved in politics, regardless of what party it is. Why are you able to disagree on this point and be a good Mormon, but not disagree with a stance like gay marriage. QUIT PICKING AND CHOOSING!
Alma 30:7-11 | 11:09 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
7 Now there was no law against a man�s belief; for it was
strictly contrary to the commands of God that there should be a law which should
bring men on to unequal grounds.
8 For thus saith the scripture: Choose ye this day, whom ye will serve.
9 Now if a man desired to serve God, it was his privilege; or rather, if he believed in God it was his privilege to serve him; but if he did not believe in him there was no law to punish him.
10 But if he murdered he was punished unto death; and if he robbed he was also punished; and if he stole he was also punished; and if he committed adultery he was also punished; yea, for all this wickedness they were punished.
11 For there was a law that men should be judged according to their crimes. Nevertheless, there was no law against a man�s belief; therefore, a man was punished only for the crimes which he had done; therefore all men were on equal grounds.
8 For thus saith the scripture: Choose ye this day, whom ye will serve.
9 Now if a man desired to serve God, it was his privilege; or rather, if he believed in God it was his privilege to serve him; but if he did not believe in him there was no law to punish him.
10 But if he murdered he was punished unto death; and if he robbed he was also punished; and if he stole he was also punished; and if he committed adultery he was also punished; yea, for all this wickedness they were punished.
11 For there was a law that men should be judged according to their crimes. Nevertheless, there was no law against a man�s belief; therefore, a man was punished only for the crimes which he had done; therefore all men were on equal grounds.
Perplexed J.D. | 11:11 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
People seem to forget that the law of the land is suppose to be the
Constitution, not the Bible. The Bible may have influenced the framers, but
their main concerns were taxation and religious freedom. I do not understand
why conservative members of the church, not just the LDS church, insist on
imposing their religious views on society as a whole. If you personally choose
to have conservative religious views why should those views be forced upon
society as a whole? That seems to be counter intuitive to the framer's
intent. Live your life by your beliefs and allow others to do the same.
Lee | 11:19 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
Maybe the LDS church's standards have slipped when it comes to giving
temple recommends. I always thought the church taught "love thy
neighbour". With the name calling Mr Reid engages in he is certainly
lacking in that department. I am surprised that someone did not tap him on the
shoulder when he started to criticize your prophets. What is BYU going to allow
next... a speech from an anti- Christ explaining to students Christ did not
really exist? After all, do you not believe your Prophets are Christ's/
God's spokesmen on earth?
Ian | 11:22 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
So its OK to allow people to kill babies (3,700 per day in the USA), but we
should be upset that our soldiers are fighting against oppressive governments
and terrorists that want to enforce their beliefs on everyone!
anonymous | 11:23 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
It's hard to believe that there are still those who literally believe in a
"talking snake" in The Garden and belief in a white haired old man who
lives in the clouds who hides on everybody and throws people into everlasting
fire --- because he loves them. Were people asleep in school when they were
being taught metaphor?
To Perplexed J.D. | 11:23 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
Stop imposing your secularism on the rest of us then
Carl | 11:27 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
We watched Senator Harry Reid on KBYU yesterday and were impressed by the polite
reception BYU gave him.
Harry Reid praised Ezra Taft Benson "while serving as an Apostle serving in President Eisenhower's cabinet".
Sen. Reid said "The invasion of Iraq was the worst foreign policy blunder in our country's history" (without mentioning George Bush). His opinion of the wrong path of some LDS leaders was NOT part of his speech but was a comment given in a press meeting AFTERWARD. He did NOT critize Ezra Taft Benson - The President of the Church.
I had served one year in Vietnam in the US Army and was VERY offended when Governor George Romney said the US Military had "brainwashed" him.
Shortly after beginning my 2nd one year in Vietnam I realized that George Romney was a rare politician who spoke the truth about the War in Vietnam.
Senator Reid and Governor Huntsman are good examples that Democratic and Republican parties EACH have a few, good, honest politicians.
Harry Reid praised Ezra Taft Benson "while serving as an Apostle serving in President Eisenhower's cabinet".
Sen. Reid said "The invasion of Iraq was the worst foreign policy blunder in our country's history" (without mentioning George Bush). His opinion of the wrong path of some LDS leaders was NOT part of his speech but was a comment given in a press meeting AFTERWARD. He did NOT critize Ezra Taft Benson - The President of the Church.
I had served one year in Vietnam in the US Army and was VERY offended when Governor George Romney said the US Military had "brainwashed" him.
Shortly after beginning my 2nd one year in Vietnam I realized that George Romney was a rare politician who spoke the truth about the War in Vietnam.
Senator Reid and Governor Huntsman are good examples that Democratic and Republican parties EACH have a few, good, honest politicians.
Ken | 11:29 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
I don't know about this guy. There's a whole lot of
compartmentalization going on within this guy when he belongs to a church that
definitely feels that abortion and gay marriage are moral (meaning serious)
threats to the American family, but then dismisses them as unimportant.
Sure the economy and the American dollar are important to all of us, but it's hard to walk away from infanticide and men marrying men and say that we live in a good society because our bank accounts are fat and the polar bears are walking on solid ice again.
Sure the economy and the American dollar are important to all of us, but it's hard to walk away from infanticide and men marrying men and say that we live in a good society because our bank accounts are fat and the polar bears are walking on solid ice again.
BYU Undergrad | 11:32 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
Before all of you start throwing rocks at Reid, remember that there is as much
rhetoric in this article as the news writer claims there was in Reid's
talk.
Although I wasn't at the press conference afterwards, I was at the forum assembly and I can assure you that this article is extremely biased to the traditional republican point of view.
I felt that Reid's address was one of standing for one's principles (as he has done regardless of his union or political affiliations) and warning us to think rather than blindly follow. A major portion of his talk was devoted to telling us HIS political views and explaining why he stands by them (never in a tone of judgment of disagreement).
I don't agree with the writer of this article that he was attacking former LDS political leaders. In fact, I believe that he was applauding them and recommending that we follow their lead in taking a personal stance on the issues.
Like previous writers on this blog have argued, go and read his words yourself before taking a stance based on a biased writer's perspective.
Although I wasn't at the press conference afterwards, I was at the forum assembly and I can assure you that this article is extremely biased to the traditional republican point of view.
I felt that Reid's address was one of standing for one's principles (as he has done regardless of his union or political affiliations) and warning us to think rather than blindly follow. A major portion of his talk was devoted to telling us HIS political views and explaining why he stands by them (never in a tone of judgment of disagreement).
I don't agree with the writer of this article that he was attacking former LDS political leaders. In fact, I believe that he was applauding them and recommending that we follow their lead in taking a personal stance on the issues.
Like previous writers on this blog have argued, go and read his words yourself before taking a stance based on a biased writer's perspective.
Democrats | 11:34 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
Interesting that when Dick Cheney comes to town there is no respect from the
Democrats, but the Republicans at least show a little courtesy and dont picket
this guys speech. When are the Demos going to clean up thier act and not play so
dirty.
Very sad | 11:36 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
The sad part of so much of what I read is the hatred spread by people. Why is it
nesecary to turn to name calling either by Mr. Reid towards Pres Bush or by
readers towards Mr. Reid. Here is our biggest challenge, we no longer want to
allow people to have their beliefs, their opinions, If you are not with with me
then you are my enemy, so we turn to spewing hatred. Is it not possible to
disagree with someone and still have them be a good person?
Very sad...
Very sad...
Jayson | 11:37 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
I have no respect for a guy who holds himself up as a member of a church and
through his actions in the public eye brings disgrace on that church. I
can't recall any other LDS politician who spent so much time disrespecting
our soliders and fellow politicians. It is a shame that he can't be more
like Mr Lieberman. Mr Lieberman is an example of the civility that is lacking
among many of our modern day politicians.
Paul | 11:38 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
Harry Reid, Are you honest in your dealings with your fellow man? As a
politician, your greatest skill is the ability to lie with that transparent
straight face. I lived in Nevada and I was ashamed of you every minute I was
there. Oh by the way, how are you and your son doing with those land swindles?
To Dale J. Christensen | 11:39 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
Ok Dale, stop judging those who apparently are judging Harry Reid.
Where are older comments? | 11:39 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
What happened to the older comments posted on this story yesterday (October
9th)? They are gone now. Why has the story been revised today? Is that why
yesterday's comments are gone?
Clark | 11:40 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
Wow. Reading these comments makes me glad I'm leaving Utah in two months.
Let's all get over the idea that you can't be a good Mormon and a
Democrat. Even if it were true, what does it matter to you? You're not
giving him his temple recommend interview. You don't have to support him.
I'm a conservative who respects President Bush while having serious issues
with many of his policies. I also very much respect Senator Reid after
attending the forum yesterday. I didn't agree with him on a lot of things,
but overall I thought his talk was excellent and he was right on regarding a
number of issues. So while I'm still a conservative, I say HURRAH for
Mormon Democrats!!! Hopefully there will be more of you in the future and
we'll learn to look beyond political differences. But either way, LDS
people commenting on this article, let's quit the bickering, accusations,
and name-calling. That is certainly not consistent with the doctrines of our
Church.
tj | 11:42 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
Get a grip folks. Once and for all Harry Reid is not pro abortion or in favor
of gay marriage. He is a democrat but he personally does not favor those issues.
What exactly is wrong with that? Can one be a Republican and not agree with
every position the Republican party takes? Yes and Yes again. This dialogue
makes me want to vote Democrat. And to the many who think you cannot be a
Mormon and a Democrat please think again. I stand by my previous statement that
I would vote for Harry Reid over George Bush any day of the week. And once
again I am currently holding a temple recommend.
Perplexed J.D. | 11:43 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
I stand corrected. Secularism is evil. I now support requiring all publicly
funded schools to teach religious doctrine and requiring all government
gatherings to begin with a prayer. The new national religion will be
Catholicism. Those who disagree will be prosecuted.
MINNIE | 11:42 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
To: "GLAD I'M NOT A MORMON"
I think tho protest too much????
I think tho protest too much????
anonymous | 11:45 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
For those who proclaim to be "the chosen people" there certainly are
some nasty ones in their group.
Never seen such back-biting in my life.
Never seen such back-biting in my life.
jade | 11:46 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
I wonder how many Israelites made fun of Moses's inability to speak well.
Just as well Harry Reid isnt chosing Prophets.
dk | 11:51 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
I knew it wouldn't be long before some catholic-bashing would enter into
this blog discussion. Perplexed J.D. unfortunately speaks for too many in this
community who focus on this sort of nonsense. It's much easier than look at
one's own group and expect positive change.
Army Guy | 11:53 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
I took BYU Prof's advice and read the New Testament. I learned about
Armageddon. I think it might refer to a war...
Dave in Vegas | 11:59 a.m. Oct. 10, 2007
I left Utah for Las Vegas with 100,000 Mormons because of the close mindedness
of Utah Mormons.
On my LDS mission I was always told my opinion didn't matter because I was a Utah Mormon. It upset me.
Listen to you people, and ask yourself what would Jesus say or do?
From the comments on Mr. Reid's speech Jesus would be saying I hate Democrats, anyone who believes differently than I do about Gays, Abortion, the war in Iraq! I missed anger and hate in the bible from Jesus, in fact I'm not sure the book of Mormon had it either.
Isn't being a true Christian or being able to listen to opposing views and be able to re-affirm your position stronger?
Most Mormons feel that Pres. Bush supports their beliefs, but as I read he follows the religious right. If I'm reading the news right they HATE Mormons and think they are a cult.
How many Democrats tear down the Mormon church?
Not living in Utah anymore I can see that possibly the people on my mission were correct, my opinion was very short sighted from living there.
I think I now understand what Jesus taught.
On my LDS mission I was always told my opinion didn't matter because I was a Utah Mormon. It upset me.
Listen to you people, and ask yourself what would Jesus say or do?
From the comments on Mr. Reid's speech Jesus would be saying I hate Democrats, anyone who believes differently than I do about Gays, Abortion, the war in Iraq! I missed anger and hate in the bible from Jesus, in fact I'm not sure the book of Mormon had it either.
Isn't being a true Christian or being able to listen to opposing views and be able to re-affirm your position stronger?
Most Mormons feel that Pres. Bush supports their beliefs, but as I read he follows the religious right. If I'm reading the news right they HATE Mormons and think they are a cult.
How many Democrats tear down the Mormon church?
Not living in Utah anymore I can see that possibly the people on my mission were correct, my opinion was very short sighted from living there.
I think I now understand what Jesus taught.
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1. The likely GOP presidential candidate (Rudy) is pro-abortion and pro gay marriage. The senior democratic leader in congress (Harry Reid) is pro-life and pro-traditional marriage.
2. Under GOP control, the federal deficit has reached all time highs. This goes contrary to church teachings of living within our means.
3. The GOP has drastically cut programs for the poor. Read King Benjamin's speach on how we should care for the poor.
I could go on, but I won't. My point is to provoke and incite a reaction. I don't really believe what you can't be a good mormon and a republican, just like I don't believe people who make similar claims that "you can't be a good mormon and be a democrat." I have great respect and admiration for both Harry Reid and Orin Hatch. I don't agree with both of them all the time, but I respect both of them as honorable and decent people who have the best interest of their constituents and the country at heart. I am active LDS, hold a current reccomend, church leader, and vote for both Democrats and Republicans. We can think for ourselves.