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Interfaith Alliance chief urges Mitt Romney to give a 'JFK speech'
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Lance S | 9:07 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
What a crock. This guy is a piece of work. The Southern Baptists have been one
of the main fountains misinformation about Mormons for decades. Now, this guy
wants Romeny to "clear up" the confusion.
Moreover, that bit about Romney showing his commitment to "separation of church and state" is laugh riot also. Most Evangelical Christians are desperate for more crossing and blurring of that line, not less.
Bottom line, Romney is a Mormon. If that is the sole basis for your rejection of him as a candidate, then you are bigot. If you want to reject him as a candidate, do it based on his politics, not his religion.
Moreover, that bit about Romney showing his commitment to "separation of church and state" is laugh riot also. Most Evangelical Christians are desperate for more crossing and blurring of that line, not less.
Bottom line, Romney is a Mormon. If that is the sole basis for your rejection of him as a candidate, then you are bigot. If you want to reject him as a candidate, do it based on his politics, not his religion.
Elizabeth | 9:16 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
I don't feel that we as Americans have asked any other of the polictical
runners for this explanation, why are we insisting Mitt Romney do this. This
nation was built on the very fiber of being able to worship any faith, this man
is a pillar of his community, does service to his country and has and is
successful in business. He has tried many times to answer questions on his
faith, why does he have to repeatedly do this??? Are you people listening or are
you all awaiting for him to say something that you want him to say? Listen up
America, out of all the people running on the Republican side, he is honest, and
has not had to admit being an adulter, he believes in man and woman marriages,
he believes he can without a shadow of a doubt be fair with all other (no matter
what faith they believe in) and to create a unified country. We are not all of
his faith, but I am certain by listening to him intently, that he wants to make
our country great again. Separate religion from government, that is what
everyone says, but they don't really mean it...
Comments continue below
Alan | 9:17 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
Why is it that the media, evangelical Republicans, and "orthodox"
Christians insist only Romney explain his faith? Perhaps these people should be
expected to explain THEIR beliefs that a Mormon is somehow a questionable
candidate. Isn't it time people who truly believe in freedom of worship
lay down the expectation that those who oppose a Mormon (or a Catholic, or a
Jew, or a Muslim) in the White House explain their bigotry? Why don't we
demand that those who would exclude someone based on their faith confront the
issue of religious elitism?
Neither Romney nor any other candidate owe America or the world any explanation for believing what they believe, so long as their beliefs value the dignity of human life and protection of human rights. (Romney's do.)
What we ALL owe ourselves is an explanation for why we would look down our nose at someone whose faith differs from our own, in any situation.
Neither Romney nor any other candidate owe America or the world any explanation for believing what they believe, so long as their beliefs value the dignity of human life and protection of human rights. (Romney's do.)
What we ALL owe ourselves is an explanation for why we would look down our nose at someone whose faith differs from our own, in any situation.
Kate | 9:22 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
Being from the Baptist Belt, alot of misinformation is because of the false
preachings of other religions. I grew up of a non-LDS faith, and people love a
reason to hate, especially when it comes to a religion different from their own.
I don't know if talking about religion will do anything because like I
said, people love a reason to hate, and regardless of what Romney says, they
will continue to do so.
Well.... | 9:28 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
Well...he probably does have to give a speech discussing what he believes. The
REALITY, like it or not, is that many American have a negative view of the
church, based on polygamy, the early church leaders, the blacks in the
priesthood thinge, etc. There is not much that can be done to make people feel
OK about most of those things. They happened, it looked weird, because, well,
it was. The best he can do is say we don't do those things anymore and
hope people can get over it. I hope he can get people to get over it, but I
doubt it. I don't think an LDS person will ever be able to run for a
national office and win. Too much historical baggage.
re: lance | 9:28 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
Why shouldnt Romney welcome the opportunity to set the record straight?
NOTROMNEY | 9:38 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
I really hope LDS members don't vote for Romney simply because he is
Mormon. My parents, my in-laws, friends , they al are voting for this guy for
his religion. Take a look at his politics people. He flip-flops enough to where
I won't vote for him. I am LDS, hold a temple recommend, but I will not go
to hell for NOT voting for this guy.
Hombre.de.steele | 9:41 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
Marriner Stoddard Eccles was also a Mormon and Chairman of the Federal Reserve
Bank from 1934 to 1948. A man noted for his integrity and character. Oh, and
commitment to the constitution???? Who else believes that the Constitution is a
God inspired document, delivered to us by wise men for the '...protection
of all flesh, according to just and holy principles'???
Big Al | 9:43 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
I am active LDS, and spent many years living in Virginia and Georgia, and most
my neighbors and acquaintances were Southern Baptists. Wonderful people, but
they suffered from "institutional bigotry", largely because of their
religious leaders, who many times attempted to teach me what Mormons really
believe. Rev. Gaddy is only attempting to hide his own bigotry behind a lot of
politically correct language. I agree with others--what confusion is there to
"clear up" about Romney's religious beliefs? It just galls the
Christian right that a religion they have spent so much time and money bashing
could end up being represented in the White House.
Elizabeth | 9:45 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
Amen to Lance S comments! All too often bigotryand ignorance is a matter of
"Look who's calling the kettle black." We're all guilty at
one time or another but this "weakness" should not be reflected in who
we elect to any office.
Keith R. Wood | 9:48 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
So, the "Reverend" C. Wilton Gaddy says that Mitt Romney is going to
have to "confront the confusion in his faith" -- but the only
confusion is coming from Gaddy and others like him.
You have to look way down in the fifth paragraph to discover that Gaddy hosts a show on "Air America." That is the left-wing talk network, that has listener numbers so low that they have to steal money from the Boys' and Girls' Clubs to pay radio stations to carry their shows.
This makes the comments look like just more attempts to muddy the waters, especially when Gaddy ignores the minor little detail that, in fact, Romney DID meet with Protestant ministers, months ago.
While I can understand a political activist such as Gaddy disregarding facts which get in his way, why does the reporter not mention that?
For that matter, why is the Deseret Morning News paying any attention to what is essentially just a press release from a political action committee? The stated goal of the Interfaith Alliance is to "fight the religious right," according to their website, which they do by condemning Republicans, while not saying one word against left-wing, pro-abortion candidates.
You have to look way down in the fifth paragraph to discover that Gaddy hosts a show on "Air America." That is the left-wing talk network, that has listener numbers so low that they have to steal money from the Boys' and Girls' Clubs to pay radio stations to carry their shows.
This makes the comments look like just more attempts to muddy the waters, especially when Gaddy ignores the minor little detail that, in fact, Romney DID meet with Protestant ministers, months ago.
While I can understand a political activist such as Gaddy disregarding facts which get in his way, why does the reporter not mention that?
For that matter, why is the Deseret Morning News paying any attention to what is essentially just a press release from a political action committee? The stated goal of the Interfaith Alliance is to "fight the religious right," according to their website, which they do by condemning Republicans, while not saying one word against left-wing, pro-abortion candidates.
Jim B. | 9:49 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
What is there to clear up? Anyone who wants to know about The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter Day Saints can find all the information they want on the church
website at www.lds.org
As for how his religion will affect his presidency; I tend to think it will affect his presiidency in the same manner it has affected his whole life in that it will help him to continue to be the same upstanding, moral citizen he has always been. Look at his record and you will see there is nothing to hide.
We all want a capable President we can trust. This is the man.
As for how his religion will affect his presidency; I tend to think it will affect his presiidency in the same manner it has affected his whole life in that it will help him to continue to be the same upstanding, moral citizen he has always been. Look at his record and you will see there is nothing to hide.
We all want a capable President we can trust. This is the man.
Trey | 9:51 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
The reason while Mr. Ronney needs to "clear up" the Mormon issue is
because the evangelicals have clouded the issue and muddied the waters. To not
vote for Mr. Romney over religion will cost the religious right the chance to
have a pro-life, pro traditional marriage candidate. Otherwise it is going to be
Billary or Guiliani. And though I would vote for Rudy over Billary, many
evangelicals won't, given our country the 4 worst years in american
political history. This lady will be a mixture of LBJ, Nixon and a crazy
socialist. Atleast Utah voters and most of the midwest know who to vote for.
confront? | 9:52 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
"Confront"???? Are we on trial here? What is there to
"confront" about belief in God? I never have heard anyone asking
Steve Young or any other person in the media, who may be LDS, to confront their
religion. Listen to conference old boy. Find out what we confront.
Mc | 9:53 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
It must be galling for a Baptist to find that the only presidential candidate
who espouses values important to Baptists with a chance to actually win is a
member of a church that Baptists have vehemently preached aginst for
generations. They are calling desperately for Mitt to persuade them that he
won't use the presidency to promote Mormonism. That fear is the only thing
that may keep them from supporting someone that stands for their values more
than the other top tier candidates.
David b. | 10:01 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
I find it really funny that he wants a statement from Romney about separation of
church and state when the religious right doesn't seem to believe there is
one.
GOP SUPPORTER | 10:11 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
THE RELIGIOUS RIGHT ON THE MERITS OF THEIR OWN DOCTRINES, i.e. BEING BORN AGAIN
HAD THE LIKES OF JIMMY CARTER, BILL CLINTON AND GW BUSH AS MEN THEY COULDNT
QUESTION AS A RESULT OF THEIR PROFESSION AS CHRISTIANS! WOW WHAT A THREESOME-
WHY CAN'T AMERICA SEE THAT THE FAR RIGHT IS BAFOONERY!!!!
WHAT A JOKE!!!
MITT HAS AS MUCH OR MORE FAITH THEN ANY CANDIDATE
OH BY THE WAY HIS FAITH IS CENTERED IN JESUS CHRIST
THE PROBLEM WITH THE RELIGIOUS RIGHT IS THEY REALLY BELIEVE THEY ARE THE ONLY ONES TRULY WORSHIPING JESUS!
WHAT A JOKE!!!
MITT HAS AS MUCH OR MORE FAITH THEN ANY CANDIDATE
OH BY THE WAY HIS FAITH IS CENTERED IN JESUS CHRIST
THE PROBLEM WITH THE RELIGIOUS RIGHT IS THEY REALLY BELIEVE THEY ARE THE ONLY ONES TRULY WORSHIPING JESUS!
former Mass resident | 10:21 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
I lived in Massachusetts when Romney was elected governor. The state was
liberal enough not to make such a big deal of his religion. The religious
issues come from conservative people. I know a lot of Mormons who say that
religion shouldn't matter in politics, but then I ask them if they would
vote for an atheist and they hesitate... The fact is there are a lot of
principled, honest, and good atheists who would make fine presidents too. I
think that many conservatives, like Mormons, would eventually get comfortable
voting for just such an atheist, but it would take time. They would have to
overcome their biases against atheists.
My main concern about Romney is that as President he would have to appeal to this intolerant/close-minded conservative base during his administration. I used to be Republican, but I'll vote Democrat now because the conservative base is too far out of touch and we need to empower the Democrats to work on health car, environment, immigration, etc.
My main concern about Romney is that as President he would have to appeal to this intolerant/close-minded conservative base during his administration. I used to be Republican, but I'll vote Democrat now because the conservative base is too far out of touch and we need to empower the Democrats to work on health car, environment, immigration, etc.
Well Said Lance S | 10:21 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
There is only one type of bigotry that is still allowed and accepted in the US
and that is prejudice against Mormons. Heaven forbid we even mention that
Hillary may not be qualified because she is a woman or Obama because he is
black. You would hear the screams and cries to the ends of the earth if that
were the case and labeled a bigoted hate monger. It is time we as Mormons stand
up for ourselves and stop being so non-confrontational when others obviously
cross the line from curiosity to bigotry. Didn't Jesus show righteous
idignation when he drove the money changers from the temple? We so often want to
take the high road and just let things be. Why don't we stand up and defend
our beliefs and demand that our beliefs be given the same respect as any other?
SCTrojan | 10:25 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
It is disingenuous of Southern Baptist, Bible Belter evangelicals to claim that
ANY member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (especially Gov.
Romney) needs to clarify their position as a Christian or justify their religion
in any way.
Last weeks LDS Conference (which was broadcast worldwide) completely clarified any questions that these people could possibly have. The Mormons go out of their way to teach their beliefs to anyone who will listen..... they just haven't listened.
Last weeks LDS Conference (which was broadcast worldwide) completely clarified any questions that these people could possibly have. The Mormons go out of their way to teach their beliefs to anyone who will listen..... they just haven't listened.
Bill | 10:35 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
I think that the real issue here is that conservative Christians want to support
someone with Romney's values, but don't want to admit that Mormons are
Christians. If they support Romney they would have to confront an issue that
they have been turning a blind eye to for years. Their form of Christianity
does not allow Mormons to be Christians. Ironic, isn't it, that the Gospel
of inclusion that Jesus preached allows such behavior
Values | 10:40 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
Mc, Gaddy's values are NOT those of the vast majority of Baptists. He is a
liberal talk show host who opposes most of what the Baptists stand for. In other
words, he's a Baptist like Harry Reid is a Mormon.
What galls Gaddy is that there are millions of people in this country who DO hold those values, and most of them vote for more conservative Democrats or for Republicans.
What galls Gaddy is that there are millions of people in this country who DO hold those values, and most of them vote for more conservative Democrats or for Republicans.
Jake M. | 10:52 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
In response to the comments of Lance S, the Rev. Gaddy is not a Southern Baptist
and has repudiated what he seems to consider dogmatism in American politics. His
suggestion that Mitt Romney clear up misconceptions about his religion seems
thoughtful and reasonable since most Americans don't have much of a clue
about Mormons.
And to Trey--Midwesterners don't have a consistent history of voting along the same line as Utahns. Maybe he is thinking of the South.
And to Trey--Midwesterners don't have a consistent history of voting along the same line as Utahns. Maybe he is thinking of the South.
Jim P | 10:54 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
It never ceases to amaze me. Most LDS members display the same bigotry they
complain about. One can only imagine the level of support LDS church members
would afford a non-christian presidential candidate (i.e. muslim, buddist,
atheist, agnostic, etc.). As for Mr. Gaddy and his ilk, they don't think
mormons are christians. They're bigoted against non-christians. They
believe they have a monopoly on the truth and would prefer someone who
they believe is inspired of god be president.
they believe is inspired of god be president.
Rich | 11:00 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
What is Romney supposed to do? Recite the Articles of Faith? So-called
Christian bookstores stock volumes dedicated to proving that Mormons don't
really believe the Articles of Faith, pulling obscure quotes from long-dead
Mormon leaders totally out of context, contending among other things that
Mormons still believe in practicing polygamy and worship Adam as their God.
Look at all those who ignore historical evidence while claiming that Brigham
Young was behind the Mountain Meadows Massacre. Nothing Romney can say will end
such bigotry. Why do the Southern Baptists say Mormons believe in a different
God and a different Jesus than they do? It's because Mormons believe the
Bible when it says that Jesus is the son of God, that his father sent him here
to atone for the sins of mankind, and Mormons believe Jesus when he demanded
certain behavior of his followers (faith without works is dead). Because
Mormons do not accept the Nicene Creed, which was written under political
pressure and is accepted by most Christians today, they are said not to be
considered Christian in the historical sense.
Romney supporter? | 11:15 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
I actually think that whatever this ministers background or motivation is, his
idea is not a bad one.
The topic of the proposed speech was not the LDS faith it was "How will that faith affect the way he governs America?". I think this is a valid question for several reasons. Someone already mentioned several of the prominent members of the church and the fact that they have differing political views, this to me both creates confusion and provides evidence of the political flexibility of the LDS faith. I think the reason that none of the other candidates have been asked to explain the relationship between their religion and their politics is first, because few of them practice their faith to the extent that Brother Romney does and second, because like it or not Mormons are viewed as different from most other Christians. I think that a well written, sincere speech that addressed this matter with conviction could only help the Romney campaign, and I hope he decides to do it.
The topic of the proposed speech was not the LDS faith it was "How will that faith affect the way he governs America?". I think this is a valid question for several reasons. Someone already mentioned several of the prominent members of the church and the fact that they have differing political views, this to me both creates confusion and provides evidence of the political flexibility of the LDS faith. I think the reason that none of the other candidates have been asked to explain the relationship between their religion and their politics is first, because few of them practice their faith to the extent that Brother Romney does and second, because like it or not Mormons are viewed as different from most other Christians. I think that a well written, sincere speech that addressed this matter with conviction could only help the Romney campaign, and I hope he decides to do it.
Shawn Lindsay | 11:21 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
I can just see our teachers in our schools: "You can become anything you
want in this life, maybe even president (except for you, you, and you because
you're Mormon)."
Romney supporter? | 11:26 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
RE: NOTROMNEY
I would really like someone to tell me why being a "flip-flopper" is so bad.
Why can't an educated person change his mind?
Do we expect our elected officials to go into office and close their mind and stop thinking about issues?
Unfortunately I believe that is what we have forced our representatives to do. That is why they appear to behave as a bunch of mindless idiots, BECAUSE THAT IS WHAT WE EXPECT THEM TO DO!!!!! Changing your mind on an issue has almost become a sort of political suicide and I think it is a shame on the American people for alowing ourselves to think this way.
I would really like someone to tell me why being a "flip-flopper" is so bad.
Why can't an educated person change his mind?
Do we expect our elected officials to go into office and close their mind and stop thinking about issues?
Unfortunately I believe that is what we have forced our representatives to do. That is why they appear to behave as a bunch of mindless idiots, BECAUSE THAT IS WHAT WE EXPECT THEM TO DO!!!!! Changing your mind on an issue has almost become a sort of political suicide and I think it is a shame on the American people for alowing ourselves to think this way.
Anonymous | 11:27 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
How about examining Barack Obama--his congregational leadership or church has
said some pretty wacky things. But really Obama,like Romney, should be judged
on their character, their stands on the issues, their proven
achievements...period!
William | 11:28 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
Did Kennedy stop being a Catholic while he was president? No!He continued being
Catholic. Have not all presidents belonged to a religious group or had religious
convictions? Did any or all of them make or need to make a special, and
apparently necessary, if we believe Rev. Gaddy, speech? Why did Kennedy feel the
need to make his speech? Did he really think that there were enough people in
this country that felt that there was a danger that he would take orders from
the Pope on matters concerning the nation? Maybe so. Rev. Gaddy, what makes you
think that just making a "Kennedy" speech will calm the fears of
paranoid Americans? Is there a fear of religion in the minds of most Americans?
Is religion something to fear? I believe in the separation of church and state,
and I believe that Romney and every other public servant in this country also
belives in it.
religion | 11:33 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
Why don't all the presidential candidates need to make a "JFK
speech?" Aren't there other people running for president with
religious affiliations? Should those people have to make a speech stating they
will run the United States as a "citizen" and not as a protestant, or
catholic, etc? Why is it such a big deal Romney must make a statement, and
other religious candidates don't need to?
Matthew R | 11:35 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
I disagree that Mitt is a flip flopper. Pres Ronald Reagen as govenor of CA was
prochoice. I also think from time to time it is good to see somemone change
their mind. We all learn new things and sometimes that requires us to change
our minds. I'll definitely be voting for Mitt, not because he is LDS
because he is the real deal. I would never ever vote for Ried who is of
questionable marbles. God bless Mitt Romney.
TLW | 11:39 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
Regardless of whether or not the LDS church has been viewed in a negative light
should have nothing to do with Mitt's ability to govern. Has he used his
governorship to promote Mormonism? Mitt is trying to show that he is focusing
on the political aspect although he chooses to be LDS. If he has to give a
statement about his religion and how his beliefs either will affect or not
affect his potential presidency, then so too should Hillary, Guilliani, and any
other candidate have to give a statement about how their religous views will
affect thier potential presidency.
Mike G. Shirra | 11:43 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
This entire religious "litmus test" discussion is SAD. This is
supposed to be America. We are supposed to have seperation of Church and State
and freedom of religion. What right do these religious elitests have to say that
Mitt Romney has to "confront" his religious background? They should go
and confront their own! They are the ones who have for decades tried to confuse
people about what Mormons believe anyway. They are religious pinko communists!
Romney is the most intelligent, most accomplished and most honest one in the
field. He has the most progressive vision for American.
Religious right hypocracy is cutting off their nose to spite their face, couching their hate behind "oh, we don't understand his religion - he needs to explain himself." To who and why? because you are not a Mormon? The information is out there on what they believe.. It's strange that hate and bigotry have couched themselves in the self-rightousness of people who feel justified in their religious superiority. It is the most un-Christian example of prejudice I've ever whitnessed. I am voting for Mitt Romney. I want the America back that I love.
Religious right hypocracy is cutting off their nose to spite their face, couching their hate behind "oh, we don't understand his religion - he needs to explain himself." To who and why? because you are not a Mormon? The information is out there on what they believe.. It's strange that hate and bigotry have couched themselves in the self-rightousness of people who feel justified in their religious superiority. It is the most un-Christian example of prejudice I've ever whitnessed. I am voting for Mitt Romney. I want the America back that I love.
Michael | 11:56 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
I really appreciate the comment which struck me the most of what I have read so
far; the comment by Keith R. Wood. Just be commenting on a topic you are
influencing and adding credibility to it. I must ask myself why this Rev C
Wilson Gaddy is given any credibility himself? What has he done? Has he
governed a state successfully? Has he raised a good family and been faithful to
his wife? Does he have anything better to do than prop himself into the
judgement seat of all who run for political office of this country? Last time I
checked there was no legitimate reason to question anything about Mitt
Romney's character or personal life. To quote Mitt himself he said,
"I think people are more interested in a man's position on the issues
than where he goes to church." Given our choices of candidates and their
proven history I am voting for Mitt Romney hands down. I strongly encourage all
to do some personal research and look at the issues and vote based upon this and
your conscience not because of someone's religion whether you belong to it,
or agree with it, or not. God Bless America!
Anonymous | 11:59 a.m. Oct. 11, 2007
Religion and a few other thigs should just be left out period!
What!? | 12:04 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007
Mitt's political problems have nothing to do with the religious right.
They have somewhat to do with his perceived flip flopping, but that's not
the primary issue either.
His problem is the viewpoint of the average american when it comes to his religion. I'm not saying it's right...but it is true.
The average american knows very little about mormonism and they don't really care to. What they DO know is that mormons are a bit weird. They know that mormons believe that JS was a prophet who talked with god, and that mormons believe their current leader is a prophet who talks with god.
They also know that mormons have temples where they do secret rites, wear strange underwear, polygamy figures in somewhere, have different sorts of dietary habits and in general are not your average religious practitioner.
This leaves the average american with a bit of a queasy feeling about mormonism and mormons in general...although most folks consider mormons to be good people.
They're not going to support a mormon for pres.
They don't understand mormonism...but they know that it's sorta weird...and they know that "they" are considered outsiders by insider mormons.
His problem is the viewpoint of the average american when it comes to his religion. I'm not saying it's right...but it is true.
The average american knows very little about mormonism and they don't really care to. What they DO know is that mormons are a bit weird. They know that mormons believe that JS was a prophet who talked with god, and that mormons believe their current leader is a prophet who talks with god.
They also know that mormons have temples where they do secret rites, wear strange underwear, polygamy figures in somewhere, have different sorts of dietary habits and in general are not your average religious practitioner.
This leaves the average american with a bit of a queasy feeling about mormonism and mormons in general...although most folks consider mormons to be good people.
They're not going to support a mormon for pres.
They don't understand mormonism...but they know that it's sorta weird...and they know that "they" are considered outsiders by insider mormons.
Brenda | 12:07 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007
I look for a candidate who lives what he/she professes to believe. If a
professed Christian, then I expect him to live the 10 commandments. He
shouldn't have to tell us how or if he's going to let his religion
morals ditate his presidency; his life should show it. Romney's life
reflects his convictions. This tells me that if he professes to believe in
patriotism and the constitution, his actions will follow. Kennedy claimed
Catholism, but did not live it. Guiliani's and (Bill)Clinton's moral
actions also do not reflect what they profess to believe. It does not matter to
me what religion our president follows, but I expect him/her to be true to it.
We need integrity in the White House, not hypocracy.
Anonymous | 12:09 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007
I think the point is not just the religion. Mormons are often perceived as
religious zealots and the Church is a well organized united group that spans so
many nations. The perception of those outside the church is, "If that is
the case how can there be seperation of church and state if we elect this
man?" The perceptions may be right or wrong. But even a great leader like
JFK had to deal with it and he did well answering it. Maybe those calling for
the speach have other motives but it doesn't mean that the speach
doesn't need to happen. People are right that we should vote for this man
because of his politics not for his religion. I am Mormon and I haven't
made any decisions regarding this man or his politics yet. Nor have I made any
full opinions of any candidates. Right or wrong such a frank and
straight-forward address should be made, though I think Mitt can make it on his
own terms in a forum he chooses and not lose the effect of it.
Jake M. | 12:08 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007
I think readers (who may not have actually read the Rev. Gaddy's remarks)
are mistaken in painting him with the Christian Right brush. He has NOT promoted
such hateful rhetoric. Gaddy rejected (and left) the Southern Baptist Convention
because he considered their policies and brand of political activism to be
un-Christian. (There ARE other kinds of Baptists besides the Southern Baptist
Convention whose beliefs and policies differ greatly from the SBC.) I don't
think you will find Gaddy among those who brand Mormons as non-Christian.
Anonymous | 12:29 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007
If religion isn't the point then why is it brought up constantly?
Robert | 12:40 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007
"Mormon Issue" I didn't realize that there was an issue with the
Mormons. Since when is there a religous test those who wish to be our leaders?
I'm not quizzed on what beliefs I have for a job application. Why should
Presidentail canidates be quizzed on what their religious beliefs are every
where they go for their "job interviews" with the people.
Personally, Romney has my vote. Not because of the the faith he chooses to follow but because of his performace with organizing the Salt Lake Winter Games and what he was able to accmplish as Govenor of MA.
Disclaimer: I am a member of the LDS fatih and my missionary service was in MA.
Personally, Romney has my vote. Not because of the the faith he chooses to follow but because of his performace with organizing the Salt Lake Winter Games and what he was able to accmplish as Govenor of MA.
Disclaimer: I am a member of the LDS fatih and my missionary service was in MA.
ex-communicated | 12:46 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007
oh shucks can't run now and who cares about his polygamy ancestors..many of
the bible people treating this guy like he should be ostrasized need remember
the principles they preach themselves. He lives the law of the land and that is
good enough. I am glad to see him running as he doesn't have the guile of
some of them. Won't vote for him but I like his family involvement but
would like to see him in a debate with the morman democrat who was at BYU...now
ain't that AMERICA!
Mike | 12:55 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007
The idea that people will vote against a religion, gender or race is as absurd
to me as voting for a religion, gender or race. This type of voting behavior is
dumber than voting for your party simply because it's your party. When
will people begin to see that the issues are what we are supposed to vote for,
not a stereotype.
John | 1:08 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007
I assume and certainly hope, that Mitt Romney or his aides read all these
earlier comments. It is very refreshing to see that in most cases people feel
that one's religion/faith or lack of it, should not be the criterion for
presidential candidates.
It should be their 'character' which counts and that includes most of the Christian virtues. As others have asked, why is Mitt singled out?
I am not a registered Republican but would vote for Mitt if the election was today. I think he has great character traits.
It should be their 'character' which counts and that includes most of the Christian virtues. As others have asked, why is Mitt singled out?
I am not a registered Republican but would vote for Mitt if the election was today. I think he has great character traits.
Ben Williams | 1:14 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007
Great point Brenda! I too look to the candidates to see if they are true to what
they believe, no matter the religion.
M.M. | 1:20 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007
The evil that men do is highlighted by the media.
The good is often buried under labels..so it is with Romney.
When the scandal laden 2002 S.L.Olympics was embarrassing our nation, Romney stepped in and turned it into a showcase. Yet Romney is a MORMON. (and certainly a MOROMON cannot be President)
Romney won the governorship of Mass. as a Republican, yes, in a State that gives us Ted K.
He saved that state from fiscal disaster, something our whole U.S. could use. (yet, Romney is a MORMON and certainly a MORMON CANNOT be President)
Unlike most politicians, Romney has remained faithful to his wedding vows, and by doing so he has blessed his children and the whole community.
(Yet Romney is a MORMON and surely a MORMON cannot
be President)
Romney's faith group is respected by governments throughout the world, teaches that the our Constitution is divinely inspired, teaches love & compassion for all, provides millions of aid throughout the world and is given freely.
There are differences in all people and religions,
But, Romney is not running for Rabbi, Pope, Imam,
Pastor, or Minister.
HE IS RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT!
The good is often buried under labels..so it is with Romney.
When the scandal laden 2002 S.L.Olympics was embarrassing our nation, Romney stepped in and turned it into a showcase. Yet Romney is a MORMON. (and certainly a MOROMON cannot be President)
Romney won the governorship of Mass. as a Republican, yes, in a State that gives us Ted K.
He saved that state from fiscal disaster, something our whole U.S. could use. (yet, Romney is a MORMON and certainly a MORMON CANNOT be President)
Unlike most politicians, Romney has remained faithful to his wedding vows, and by doing so he has blessed his children and the whole community.
(Yet Romney is a MORMON and surely a MORMON cannot
be President)
Romney's faith group is respected by governments throughout the world, teaches that the our Constitution is divinely inspired, teaches love & compassion for all, provides millions of aid throughout the world and is given freely.
There are differences in all people and religions,
But, Romney is not running for Rabbi, Pope, Imam,
Pastor, or Minister.
HE IS RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT!
Richard G. | 1:26 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007
Oooooh! A Mormon vs. Baptist catfight. Us atheists love it!!!!
John | 1:26 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007
Let's not judge him by his religon. Please look at another rich
father's boy, hedge fund CEO, and a man of privilage. Sound familar not
another Bush Jr. PLEASE! Hedge fund operator's are in part responsible for
decline of the American worker.please forgive my gammar.
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Bottom line--it's time to get over this religious crap and judge a man by his character and accomplishments (MLK said about the same thing). I actually believe Mitt does okay on those things. However, the religious right of the Republican core may kill his chances because of their own intolerant and ignorant views on religion. Perhaps this guy is right int the sense that Romney needs to explain himself but in reality he shouldn't have to. His record of running an ethical business, a successful Olympiad and a decent tenure as a Republican Governor of Mass. should be enough to evaluate him among the other candidates.