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Not Romney? Utah surprised

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Dude | 12:54 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
Oh come on! There is no way McCain would have chosen Romney. He would have lost in a landslide if he had! He is still LDS. The southern states and mid-west states still would not have voted for a LDS vice-president. Stop saying "Utah surprised" I for one Utahn was not at all surprised.
GOP Outcast | 12:56 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
I've voted straight-party for the Republicans ever since I was first able to vote years ago, but I've learned some interesting things about my former party over the past year. I'd like to tell you why:

First, the apparent strength of the party are the religious evangelicals that want my vote but not my religion because "Mormons worship the Devil." Second, the party of little government has been the party of big government for the past 7 years. I don't fault President Bush in particular. I fault every Republican in Washington. Third, I feel the only way to reorganize/reenergize conservative Americans is to give the White House back to the Democrats. Newt Gingrich wasn't smart enough to engineer a GOP comeback in 1996. It was merely a call for a counterbalance to President Clinton. The same thing will happen in 2012.

For these reasons, as well as a few others, I invite the Utah Republicans to join me in voting Democratic in November. Let's prove to the Nation why Utah shouldn't be taken for granted, and let's bring our party to the brink of destruction in order to allow for a resurgence in four more years.
JTM | 1:02 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
I wonder if Romney supporters have thought about this: If McCain wins, then Romney can't possibly run for president until 2016 (since incumbent presidents never lose their party's nomination). If that were the case, by 2016 the country would have had 16 years of Republican presidents, and the country would likely be ready for a Democrat no matter what. Soooo, if you want Romney for president during your lifetime, it seems that you'd want Obama to win this election, so he could run against him in 4 years. Hmmmmm...
Comments continue below
Chachi | 1:34 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
Romney would've been the better VP--far more qualified and more experienced--but I'm glad McCain chose Palin. She will appeal much better to voters, who often vote by who seems the most likeable, fresh, diverse, etc., and not by what makes the most rational sense. Nonetheless, Obama will win, America will eventually be disillusioned with him, and Romney will be back in 2012 for another go at it.
Don't be fooled | 1:38 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
Clever spin that Utah Democratic Chair Wayne Holland put on this that McCain passed over Romney because he was LDS. Don't fall for it. Obama/Biden stand for everything that's NOT in harmony with LDS values. Shake it off, Utah, and do the right thing.
No surprise | 1:41 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
Sarah Palin is a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, which does not allow Mormons to join.

When will Utah wake up? the Republican party takes us for granted while mocking LDS behind our backs.

Now I'm 100% sure I'm voting for Obama.
Not Surprised! | 1:52 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
The reality of politics is that McCain/Romney was never a good fit. After the primaries there is only "unity" to beat the other guy. Just as I pulled for Kobe in the Olympics, Romney pulls for McCain for president but there really is no love there. He may get an economic roll in the cabinet but I for one was glad that Romney did not get stuck with McCain. Not being the guy improves his odds in 2012 or 16 if he chooses.
xscribe | 1:57 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
This should not be surprising to anyone. It's obvious, as is always the case with the Republicans, that the American people are not what matter in the election; it's about winning the election; not who and what is best for the country, but to keep control of the White House. Picking a woman for a running mate, a far right-leaning one at that, is such an obvious attempt to "go for broke" and try to gain the votes of women. Once that happens, the change we so desperately need and which Obama would implement, will be out the window, and we'll have another four years of failed policy and economic downturn. You do have to hand it to the Republicans: They are very shrewd politicians and know how to win elections. I thought McCain was above this "win at all costs" attitude. Can we really trust him to run the country? And what if he happens to pass on - he is 72 - can we really trust to have a person with so little experience we know nothing about her become President? Sad!!
Move along | 1:59 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
Mitt Romney could have been a good VP. However, McCain needed something different. Palin is a shrewd choice. Romney would be a great Secretary of Commerce.
rvalens2 | 3:00 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
Mitt may have missed out on the Veep selection but he needs to take heart and continue supporting the GOP ticket. A lot can happen over the next few months/years and he may yet get his opportunity in 2012.
To : No Surprise | 3:03 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
You must be a lying Democrat since I easily found this at: Fellowship of Christian Athletes

�There are Mormon students who have come to the Huddle and raised their hands and said the prayer, so now we�re teaching the kids to ask the right questions and understand exactly what they believe. We�re not making denominational pitches against anyone,"
HAHAHA | 3:33 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
Poor Utah! A Mormon not being selected as the VEEP? The country knows that in Utah there is seperation between church and state......... It's about 4 city blocks!

OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT!!!
jmm36 | 3:32 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
I think Romney should run as an Independent, this year. Since there is no economic solution on the ballot, there is room for a third ticket.

Maybe Mitt could team with Bloomberg or something?

Will he do it? No way. Mitt is following the loyalty train and hopefully will win in 2012 as a Republican. But it would give me someone to vote for.

Who will I vote for? I am thinking Green Party this year. I do not support McCain, and I don't think Obama would be such a hot pick, either. I wish there was a box in the polls that says "apathetic" so I could express myself without staying home.

Congrats to Sarah. I have nothing against her. It is McCain's judgment, first in his marriage, then in his running mate, that brings the ticket into question.

Strategic, but not wise.
Utah not more enlightened | 3:45 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
A truely enlightened people would not choose a person for office based upon common religion, but on the qualities of the person. Are the people of Utah choosing Romney based on this? perhaps, but given his change of political views (abortion) so close to the time he choose to run for president it is doubtful.

The people of Utah it seems are no more enlightened than the rest of americans.

Nils | 3:54 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
I was honestly surprised that McCain didn't select Romney as a running mate. I think the LDS factor would have meant nothing but success in states that he needs to win the presidency (Nevada and Colorado) but would not have ultimately hurt him in the South. Nevertheless, as a Mormon I am very glad that Romney was not selected. I have a lot of respect for him as a person and he has a great resume. Unfortunately, his strategy in the primary election forced him to portray himself as somebody he is not. If he would have run as the "moderate Republican" he has always been, focusing 90% of his talk on the economy, he would have succeeded. Now, if he were a vice presidential candidate, he would continue to be the most visible Church member, and would support stereotypes of who Mormons are that are simply not true in every case. Hopefully Mormons will not consolidate too much with the Republicans. I would love to see the majority of church members take a big step towards the middle. Moderation in all things - especially politics.
LDS: compare Reid & Romney | 3:54 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
Let's compare the way Democrats vs Republicans have treated their LDS members:

Republicans: mock Mitt Romney, question his religion and its values, choose a much less qualified candidate who is very evangelical

Democrats: elected Harry Reid majority leader, making him highest ranked LDS in the history of US, gave Reid major slot at convention, nominated proud LDS Democrat Udall in Colorado, etc.

Democrats welcome all people regardless of race or religion, a party of regular working people instead of Republican millionaires.

Isn't that what you want for your country and your kids?
Joseph Atwater | 4:17 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
Lets face it Republicans are for war and power and money, "hell with the poor, ship em off to Iraq". If you got money and vote Republican come to Utah, "your welcome here". Democrats are for abortions and same sex marriage.When will the Mormons get it right and find another party who is God fearing and not whats promoted behind shut doors of Salt Lakes "religious community". They say..." oh we dont promote political parties" we only adopt the Republican way"....shhhhhhhhhhhhhh.
Like the Wise Teacher said of old...."Hypocrites"
Klay Peterson | 4:31 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
I am a life-long Republican but cannot support this ticket. No disrespect intended to Palin, but to me McCain is a pimp and is only pandering to the undecided Clinton female base. He is not choosing the best candidate for VP. This is achoice of political expediency over what is best for the country. A decision based on meeting her one time? This will back-fire on McCain as voters will see right through this. Given his age and health issues, we should be very concerned as to who is the next in line to the presidency.
Anonymous | 4:41 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
I thank God Almighty that Romney was NOT chosen. WHAT A RELIEF!!!!!
Utahn | 4:47 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
I'm not surprised.
Loser | 4:49 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
McCain is too vain to pick Romney. He couldn't pick Romney because Romney speaks better, looks better etc...

Don't get me wrong I think Palin is great but McCain chose her so he could totally control her!

I am glad that Romney isn't on the ticket with John McCain.
Republicans are bigots | 4:54 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
The republican party are a bunch of bigots. They are the biggest mormon haters around!

Jenny | 4:55 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
I think republicans need to lose this time. They need to get their priorites straight!
Reality. | 4:59 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
I won't say I told you so. Outside, Utah to know Mitt is to dislike his car salesman personality and fake plastic persona. We aren't commented to vote a member of our church in outside Utah so, we can be more objective about Mitt.

Mormon will always be the illegitimate step child of the republican party. If you want to be LDS and a republican, learn to deal with this fact.
Patricia Parrish Lewis | 5:19 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
As a dialysis r.n. in the state of Tennessee and an active member of The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-day Saints, I work daily with conservative "Christian" peers who have made no effort to conceal their disdain for Mitt Romney due to his Christian affiliation. They know of my membership in the kingdom, and are indifferent to my sensitivies. If the same attitude were vented in the work environment regarding race there would be major recupercussions. Latter-Day Saints are open market for the disdain and venting of religious southern political conservatives. Let me assure you that religious bigotry and "anti-mormonism" is alive and well in the southeastern U. S.
Anonymous | 5:24 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
Hey "No surprise" I've got some news for you, the Republican party will continue to take the Mormon vote for granted because we make up less than 2% of the vote while Evangelicals make up anywhere from 20-40% of the vote. What do you expect? Go vote for Obama out of spite. If he wins I'm sure you'll regret having done your part to get him into the White House. The Democrats will control the House, the Senate and now the White House. A sure recipe for disaster.

While I'm disappointed that Romney isn't on the ticket, I'm also a little relieved. Even though McCain appears to have warmed a little to Romney, there really is no positive chemistry from the two and Romney will not be able to do what I think Palin could do. I think many more of the Republican base will come out and vote for her than a few disaffected Mormons will vote for Obama. It's more likely that Hillary fans will vote for a McCain/Palin ticket versus a McCain/Romney. Romney has done a lot of good work for the Republican party/LDS church. You don't always have to win to make a real difference.
Mormon trolls | 5:24 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
I find it funny that some trolls come on and try to play on emotions and imply persecution to get others to not vote for McCain. Seems kind of evil and dishonest to me. I wouldn't be suprised if most of them aren't even LDS. I am not calling anyone out in this particular thread yet, but in the other...Oh man some where just obvious.

With Obama's class warfare rhetoric and Cindy McCains wealth, Romney was just too successful in his business career. With him on McCain's ticket that would make it the what? 300 or 400 million dollar ticket? I really like the Palin pick but something just bugs me when being successful hurts your chances. Just my opinion. have a great weekend.


Ted Jones | 5:35 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
I'm just absolutely shocked that Sen. Bennet was not an insider and knew who would be the VP! Of course who could have guessed that McCain would pick a gun packing mom?
Mom in MO | 5:36 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
I'm excited over the VP pick. Romney will likely get a position in the government somewhere. McCain won't run twice, and not one of us can predict the furture. After all, not long ago, it looked like Clinton vs. Guiliani in 08, and no one foresaw either VP candidates. So, no tears from me.
Anonymous | 5:37 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
Utah isnt 'surprised'.. it is relieved.. Now we can continue on with our lives without hearing of Romney throughout this election process. :-)
lost in DC | 5:47 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
I echo much of what Dude said. It's too bad that evangelicals will sacrifice the unborn at the altar of religious bigotry, electing an ardent abortion supporter as president before voting for a mormon as VP. That's a very christian attitude
Reality check | 6:00 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
McCain knows he needs the Huckabigot vote even more than the vote of disgruntled Hillary supporters. Palin gives him a shot at both, although ultimately I think he will get much more of the former than the latter. If he doesn't lock-up the Huckabigot vote, it's game over.

Sorry, Mitt. You belong to a political party in which your religion, unfortunately, IS a liability for you. Sen. Reid rose to the highest position of power in Congress and nobody batted an eye. Wake up, Utahns and Latter-day Saints! You are being had.
Anonymous | 6:11 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
I'm not surprised either. I am quite glad that Romney won't soil his name further with McCain. Not that it will keep him out of the mud forever. Obamination will sell out our country as fast as McCain to the New World Order. Hold on tight everyone... it will be a bumby ride. (To put it lightly)
AWB | 6:17 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
Is it beginning to sink in, Mormons? The Republican Party is NOT your friend! Outside of your little enclave in the shadow of the everlasting hills, the rest of the world still puts your religion firmly in the category of cult. Whether you agree or not, that is how you are viewed. Mormons are a minority group. The Republican Party is NOT the party of minority groups!

Of COURSE Romney didn't get the nomination! Of COURSE he wasn't picked to be VP running mate! If you are honestly surprised, you are honestly not paying attention to how the rest of America sees your peculiar people.
Its about time | 6:29 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
Utahns line up with Christian Conservatives every year just to get mocked, ridiculed and shunned. This election finally showed how loyal the political right is to the CTR. Maybe now Utahns will figure out that leaving uninsured children to fend for themselves while corporate greed goes unchecked is unChristian. Its a good thing there was at least one good Christian family at the head of a major party ticket.
why | 6:36 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
I am not LDS,but how i hate to read comments that look down on LDS.ALL you who say bad things about Lds,you have shown who you really are by what you wrote.You are not better than most LDS ppl.Go and see a mirror first before you give lds bad comments.You are just Not fair at all!Although i myself prefer OBAMA and BIDEN,lets not see other ppl by their religions.Respect each other always as we all brothers and sisters indeed.
Anonymous | 6:38 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
utah still has orrin hatch and that is important plus we are the party of buttars also
harold | 6:49 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
Even if Mitt had great wealth and could flip flop from morning until evening voters remained distant. Personal integrity was missing.
M Russell | 6:51 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
While I am shocked and disappointed Mitt is not on the ticket I feel very good about Palin. I knew she was a fine soul before her pick as VP. She is an asset for the ticket. I just tell it the way it is.
liberal Larry | 7:02 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
I think that star struck Utahans fail to realize how scary most of the country finds Merciless Mitt. Not only did he make his money with his cool, ruthless, intellect, but he hasn't manage to connect with voters as an engaging personality. Throw in the fact that he's harder to gauge politically than the mythical shape shifter, and he's just not an appealing package.
Member in Texas | 7:10 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
The next time Mitt runs and has a chance to answer about our beliefs, maybe he will stand up instead of cower behind his political advisers.
utahn | 7:17 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
Not surprised one iota. I like Romney but didn't want him on the ticket by any means.
Frank | 7:23 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
The only one who really thought McCain would pick Romney as VP is Mitt. I am so grateful we are not going to see this self righteous man on the ticket. Send him on a mission.
To No Surprise | 7:28 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
I thought of that also. However, you don't fight bigotry by responding in kind.

We continue to try to vote for the very best choice - the most moral, ethical, wise and experienced candidate we can...from what ever church-going background.

phoebe | 7:29 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
Considering the treatment that Romney received from McCain before the Primaries, I'm surprised that Romney speaks to him.

McCain will not get my vote nor will Obama. I don't trust either one.

Not Ready | 7:29 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
The world is not grown-up enough to have a Mormon in the White House. The Church has never cried for relief from the government (like other racial groups have) because of Gov. Boggs order and all the killings that went on over religion. If the Church had sought relief then Mitt may have had a better chance.
Blame | 7:34 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
If Mitt had been selected then EVERYTHING that happened in the White House would have been blamed on the Church. People are childish. But for a Mormon he really went a long way. It has taken nearly a century for people to accept a woman running for office in the White House. It may take longer for a Mormon.
MOTHER OF 5 | 7:36 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
HOW CAN A MOTHER RUN AN ENTIRE COUNRTY AND STILL HAVE TIME FOR HER CHILDREN. HOW DOES SHE GIVE SPECIAL TIME FOR HER SPECIAL NEEDS CHILD. I BELIEVE IN WOWMEN LEADERS...BUT ONES THAT ARENT HAVING TO BALANCE CHILD REAING AND MOTHERHOOD WITH THEIR CAREERS. I HOPE THAT HER HUSBAND IS A FULL TIME STAY AT HOME PARENT TO MAKE IT RIGHT BY HER CHILDREN. I DON'T FEEL THE CONNECTION WITH THIS WOMEN TO LEAD ME AS AN AMERICAN.
@ No Surprise 1:41 | 7:39 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
Are you trying to tell me that Obama loves Mormons?
Heck, he doesn't even like white people! Give me a break, His religion doesn't even have the form of godliness.
"Beautiful" choice | 7:39 a.m. Aug. 30, 2008
Last night on the news Orrin Hatch when asked about Palin being put on the ticket stumbled and hemmed and hawed and finally said, "Well she's beautuiful and talented." Huh? Is being beautiful now the lowest common denominator to be elected to the second highest office in the land? Hatch can't list any of her qualifications (afterall, Palin was the mayor of a town of 9000, the Gov. of Alaska, and a beauty queen winner) and has to stoop to "well she's beautiful...

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