CNN

McCain's mom is right! For details about the Salt Lake Olympics, see

romneyforpresident.townhall.com

(Funny photos too!)

McCain's mom is right! For details about the Salt Lake Olympics, see

romneyforpresident.townhall.com

Like Mormonism, the blog isn't what it seems.

(Funny photos too!)

Excerpt from http://www.mormons.org, viewed on 11/12/2007:

The Commandments
Obedience to God’s Commandments
Pray Often
Study the Scriptures
Keep the Sabbath Day
Holy Baptism and Confirmation
Follow the Prophet
Live the Law of Chastity
Obey the Word of Wisdom
Live the Law of Tithing
Observe the Law of the Fast
Obey and Honor the Law
Endure to the End

Membership in the Church
Articles of Faith
Church Organization
Serving in the Church
Missionary Work
Church Growth
Forever Families
Temples and Family History
Humanitarian Aid and Welfare
Teaching and Learning in the Church
Holidays and Observances

sorry, she doesn't get a pass from me. may she rot. as a gay man I know that I cannot stand bigotry in any form

You are ALL dead wrong about everything you believe.

Response to the following post from Reality Check digging him/herself out of a hole:

Kelly –

Posted By Reality Check : November 12, 2007 1:56 pm

My response:

Cut and Paste is a beautiful thing, wouldn't you agree Reality Check?? I didn't misquote you. But you certainly did alter your statement in your repost/response.

Let me remind you... here is your original post. No where in the post does it say Roberta McCain is the only elderly person you were talking about:

To Kelly:

Posted By Reality Check : November 12, 2007 12:12 pm

Roberta McCain may have been the only person you were refering to, but it's certainly NOT what you said in your original post. I'm also certain you will have a last word reply to explain how I misquoted you by cutting and pasting your exact words... even though I cut and pasted the complete statement you made. But you'll try. Seems like you are practicing on becoming a true politician yourself. Nice start.

ps., Yes, if an individual is running for a political office, he or she does indeed need to address anything they have done in the past that they get called out on. That's the way it works. That's the only way we can see how an individual has grown from his/her mistakes of the past... or how they have not grown. He is running for the most elite office in our country, after all.

"Why is Romney's religion such a hot topic in politics?"

Because anyone who goes through the Mormon temple and has their Endownments makes a sacred oath to sacrifice every thing (including life) to the building of the kingdom of God on earth (the LDS church). Romney has made that oath, and so what that oath means to him and how he will uphold it in the worlds highest office should be scrutinized. Older Mormons (Romney's age) signaled that oath by running the thumb across the throat. They took that out of the ceremony some years ago.

** note: making the oath does not mean the church will call on you to give everything–but the promise has been made.

I'm sad to see so much hate displayed in these comments, especially in regard to Mr. Romney's religion. If you are a Christian and you are spewing hate, you certainly are not living the principles of your religion. If you are not Christian and are still spewing hate, you have somehow missed what your religion or your parents or your teachers have tried to teach you. Let's rise up above such mean-spirited talk. We're better than that, America.

Mr. Romney should do what JFK did, and say that he believes in a Separation of Church and State. If Mr. Romney does not believe in a Separation of Church and State, then his religion should be an issue, because he may want to use the power of the U.S. Government to promote his religious beliefs. I want Mr. Romney to tell us if he believes in a Separation of Chuch and State! If Mr. Romney believes in a Separation of Church and State, then the issue of his religion should end.

Every Christian and non-Chritian should know that the Mormon faith teaches salvation by works – in other words they say you can earn salvation. That is not what God's Holy Word – the Bible – says. The Bible says that salvation is a free gift from God purchased with the shed blood of His Son, Jesus Christ, and that we receive the free gift of salvation by faith in what Jesus Christ did on the cross and in what God did by resurrecting Jesus from the dead. If one accepts Jesus as Lord and Savior and professes his or her faith publicly then the Holy Spirit comes to dwell in the heart of that person and the Holy Spirit gives that person the desire to do good works in faithfulness to God and Jesus Christ. Christianity is not a religion – it is a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ, His Son. Christianity is God coming down to man – a religion is man trying to get to God which he cannot do. Christianity is based on the teachings of Jesus Christ – Mormonism is based on the teachings of Joseph Smith who was a mortal man in need of salvation like everyone else. There are many people who do good deeds but that will not get them to Heaven. The only way to Heaven is by trusting and obeying God by placing one's faith in Jesus Christ. Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No man cometh unto the Father (God) but by Me." John 14:6.

Mormons are so silly, if they don't get you while you're alive, they will when you're dead. It's true!
Mormons also believe Mitt has a chance. When will they learn. The make up less then 1% of America, I think GOD loves they gays more.

Of course religion and politics mix, it is impossible to seperate them. A person's religon affects the way they think and the what decisions they make (most of the time anyway). Obama is a good example of how silly people are when they ignore their religious beliefs when in politics. Obama says he's a Christian, but refuses to take a Christian stance on issues like homosexuality and abortion. These issues are clear-cut in the Bible, there's no question that they're evil, so if Obama won't take a Christian stance on these things, how can we have any confidence he'll seek God's guidance on things where it isn't so clear-cut on what to do, like the war in iraq or the 'war on terror' in general. I'd rather not vote at all than vote for a non-Christian candidate, and even though Obama says he is a Christian he doesn't seem to hold a Christian view-point on many of the current issues, so I don't see how voting for him would be any different than voting for a non-Christian.

Same with Romney. Mormons are very dedicated to their beliefs so if he gets elected it's very likely he'll do as much possible to promote whatever Mormon beliefs his prophets and church tell him to. I'd rather not vote at all than vote for a cultist, especially one that has such a distorted view of who God and Jesus really are.

Romney is LDS, why is that a bigger deal than what religion any of the other candidates are? Has anyone asked Obama or Hillary what their religous views are and how they will affect their decisions were etiher to become president?
If we are going to focus on a candidates religion then lets do it to all the candidates and not just the one. It would be interesting to see what the American people think when other religions are put under the microscope.
How many misconceptions are out there about all religions, why don't the people who think Mormonism is so wierd and secretive check out lds.org and see what an abudance of information is available to everyone.

Only the idiotic Republican right can see symbolism in this. Something akin to Bush tugging on a locked door.

In addition, using TJ, Hilo twisted logic:
A Jew cannot be president because he does not believe in Jesus and a woman cannot be a rabbi.
A Catholic cannot be president because they must obey the Pope, woman cannot be a priest.
It appears that he thinks only a Christian can be president.
Some of the most inane postings I have seen. Apparently religion is THE most important criteria for the Republican base. That would explain the situation the country is in.

I was brought up Mormon, they are who they say they are. Mormon's think that everyone can go to the high kingdoms. I'm glad I'm going where they are. Mitt will rule in 2008!

I have lived in Salt lake city for 4 years and my husband has lived there for 20 years. They are nice people but very self-righous, they forcely try to make you mormon. Their society is very closed and being a minority among mormons is very hard. I can not imagine a person with that kind of philosophy become president. And by the way we don't live in Utah anymre and as non-mormons we are a lot happier living outside mormon land which is Utah! and believe me most of the pro-romney comments here are from MORMON MISSIONERIES who live in different state!

The GOP are supposed to be the party of moral values and astute, Christian behaviour, right?! At least they remind us of that every five minutes!!!

And this is a shining example of what?!?!?!?!

I guess you have to be the "right kind" of Christian, eh?!

A person lives their religion 24/7 … it is part of their "belief" systems which guides their thoughts and ideas … anybody but Romney!!
Posted By Jackson, Morongo Valley, CA : November 12, 2007 1:08 pm

Yes, I agree. It is much better for people to only live their religion on Sunday. The other six days they can do whatever they want. That type of behavior is much more noble and admirable. Kudos to you for the brilliant thoughts.

Kelly –

I believe Mitt side stepped the question because anyone with a right mind can do a little research and find out the answer. He doesn't need to explain what happened BEFORE he got to the Olympics.

By the way – don't misquote me. I didn't say Mrs McCain couldn't be enlightened, I just said that she wasn't. If you want to continually be enlightened, now is a good time to start.

Dear: Blayze Kohime: Actually, Hitler claimed to an atheist. It's people like Hitler who make a bad name for atheism. He was involved with the occult too. Does that make him a wiccan? It's people like St. Augustine, Fred Phelps or Jerry Falwell who give (gave) Christianity a bad name.

I am always surprised at the ignorance of the anti-Mormon bigots. "The Book of Latter Day Saints"?? What is that? As a lifelong member I have never heard of this book. Mitt is an elite because he is a "member of the Mormon Temple? Again, what is this? ANY Mormon, rich or poor in good standing can go to the temple. An elite? And when are these loonies going to drop the "cult" argument? No other Christian religion believes in revelation, baptism for the dead, apostasy and a need for a restoration, or Priesthood authority, all found in the Bible. Many have a problem with Christ being the literal Son of God, that he was literally resurrected, or that he even existed at all!

TJ and others,

Stereotyping doesn't hold up! If you want to know about Mormonism and Blacks you should ask Gladdys Knight who joined the church several years ago or maybe one of the other 700,000 black members. If you want to discuss Mormonism and women's rights, discuss it with Julie Beck, the president of the world's largest women's organization, the Mormon Relief Society or several other Mormon women with careers, advanced degrees and excellent cookie recipes.

A very significant belief of Mormonism, which is one of the many things that completely differ from mainstream Christianity, is the belief that if they are good little Mormons,they will remain married in the afterlife and will "eternally progress" to the level that God is now (referred to as the "godhood")to ultimately become gods and goddesses of their very own universes. (By the way, they believe the present God has a wife and that they "intimately join" to keep producing new sprits for our present Earth.)Didn't a snake-like entity once tell Adam & Eve that eating a certain fruit would cause them to become "just like God"? But, I digress!
Perhaps this step to the Presidency is Mitts way of getting closer to being a god and ulimately populating his own universe!
I just wonder if he'd be open to the idea of talking about that!

Greg, he really did let out a Freudian slip and called Obama "Osama".

http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/10/23/romney-makes-obama-osama-gaffe/

The guy has definitely made some gaffes. What candidate has not?

Roberta McCain for President!

Go Granny Go!

most of y'all need to do a bit of research. Romney is running for president not pope.

Mormonism is no secret, from what I read on lds.org and mormon.org you can read every bit of their teachings in nicely organized lessons and sermons for anyone interested in the truth on the church of Jesus Christ.

http://www.lds.org
http://www.mormon.org

And if you still have questions, I think they have bout 50,000 volunteers taking it door to door in shirts and ties! So where is the mystery and why should Mitt carry any religion banner?

I was brought up Mormon, they're not who they say they are. Mormon's think they are the only ones going to the high kingdoms. I'm glad I'm not going where they are. Mitt doesn't have a chance!
Hillary 2009!

To Wayne:
He never referred to Obama as Osama. He stood next to a sign that played on a joke about soldiers telling Chelsea Clinton that the three things they fear most are "Osama, Obama and your Mama."

Mormonism is a cult. I would never vote for a Mormon.

Americans should put more weight on Leadership and Management qualities, Domestic and International policy skills, organizational skills and integrity. Religion should weigh less. Though it is also important to have BASIC moral and family values. Mitt Romney has all the ingredients of most of the criteria. His religion, LDS, is well grounded on basic Christian values and his family values is definitely rooted in being a mormon. If we dig further and discuss theology it will be a useless pursuit, unending and inconclusive - and will only deviate from the main issue of electing a president. Mitt got the basic values that we all share and we need to just let it be that way and respect it.

A person lives their religion 24/7 ... it is part of their "belief" systems which guides their thoughts and ideas ... anybody but Romney!!

i love all these Republicans on this blog that are screaming- "religion shouldn't matter, religion shouldn't matter, its discrimination". Yet as we have seen, during Republican rule religion is the basis for just about everything. Republicans like playing this bait and switch game.

Because of our current brave leader we actually have tax dollars being funneled to church groups and their pet projects which are nothing more than recruitment and indoctrination events.

Religion does matter. You just wait for a Romney presidency. The Mormons that come bugging you knocking on your door trying to convert you will multiply many times over and they will be even more smug and ridiculously uninformed than they are now.

Meg, baltimore maryland:

"Romney ran for governor in MA as a pro-choice republican who worked (with recognized success) towards legalizing civil unions."

Meg, your statement is completely untrue. Before making comments like this please at least do some research. Romney didn't run for Governor of MA on the pro-choice and pro-civil unions platform. Google this subject and you'll be pleasantly surprized what you'll find out!

Wayne, Greenville TX:

"And judging by his repeated references to Barak Obams as "Osama" and his refusal to apologize for same."

Wayne, is this all you got on Romney? What you are referring to wasn't "repeated references" – it happened ONCE. Romney didn't publically apologized because it was nothing to apologize about – a lot of people have done it before, including your beloved liberal Sen. Kennedy. Did you hear Kennedy apologize? So, quit it.

As for Gov. Romney, once again he us showed class and character that no other candidate (democrat or republican) in this race possesses. Very well done!. Gov. Romney was born to be the President of our great nation – the United States of America.

Romney 08! Romney all the way!

So many have asked, "Why not a Mormon in the White House?" Here's why. Because Mormon's believe that a woman's place is in the kitchen making cookies. Because until recently blacks could not be Mormon priests and are still believed to carry the "mark of Cain", because Mormons belief in Jesus, but that he lives on another planet, not in heaven, and... must answer unquestioningly to the President of the Mormon Church. So, who will actually be running the country?

This is a direct quote from the Book of Mormon: 2 Nephi 26:33: "...and he inviteth them all to come unto him and partake of his goodness; and he denieth none that come unto him, black and white, bond and free, male and female; and he remembereth the heathen; and all are alike unto God, both Jew and Gentile." This was transcribed by Joseph Smith from the ancient writings he had in posession.

"Oh I give a pass to anybody that's over 90."

–seems a bit disrespectful to me. i'm only 24 years old, but that doesn't mean i should discredit what older people might say, or take it any less seriously.

A pass for anyone over 90? Okay Rudy, Fred, and any prospective Dem opponents: Dredge up plenty of geezers for attack ads!

http://www.political-buzz.com/

To Reality Check:

Here's a reality check: If a middle aged, or younger, white man made the same claim as McCain's mother, would he have given him the same brush off? My educated guess would be: probably not. He would have reached into his bag of intelligently crafted sound bites to give the comment and person the respect of a reasonable response. That’s if he’s running a thoughtful and intelligent campaign. Using someone's age against them is not a "reasonable response”, and is definitely not classy (as you suggested). You can still be classy and “take the high road” by addressing the actual issue in a respectful manner. Instead, he allowed a topic to go unaddressed (regardless of who brought it up). He’s not just answering Mr. McCain’s mother, he’s answering a question that all the viewers heard McCain’s mother present to him. It put focus on it, even though an elderly woman who, in your opinion, is incapable of enlightenment after all her years. I sincerely hope that my growing never stops and that I can learn and improve, even in my old age. Having the ability to change my mind on something, given good evidence, seems like a great thing to me.

New Research shows Obama beating Clinton in online participation

Read the full release, including data, graphs and analysis at http://www.mackenziemoritz.com/

Highlights:

*Obama’s blog is updated almost three times as frequently as Clinton’s and has generated 73,566 comments over the course of the campaign – 64,186 more than Clinton’s 9,380 comments.

*Obama’s lead in internet participation has grown in recent months as Clinton’s has fallen. Last month, users of Obama’s website posted 20,665 comments to Clinton’s 868. One possible explanation of the gap is the different policies the campaigns utilize on their websites. Obama's campaign posts all comments and allows users to flag inappropriate comments for review. Clinton's campaign makes use of a moderator, not posting comments until they have made it past the campaign's censor.

As long as Mitt Romney will not display his Mormonism Theology on the campaign trail, he will be a good candidate for presidency. Other than that, not a Biblical-based theology, Mormonism, or LDS faith, must not be followed. Lest they might make Romney, a god for themselves, and a god above all other gods. Plus, we don't want the "Book of Mormons" be displayed in the White House more than the Holy Bible. According to the Mormon teachings, The Holy Bible and the Book of Mormons have an equal setting and holiness with each other. One thing I can say, the Book of Mormons is just any other books in the Library without any importance. I study their teachings about it. Go, Romney, go! Please have a Bible in your hand rather than the BM or the "Pearl of Great Price" book.

I'll have to admit...that was nice of Romney. He still won't get my vote. I'm either going for Hunter or Rudy...or whoever is going against the witch from Arkansas.

WatchingHillary.com

With all the money he has to spend and with his political aplomb Romney will not win the GOP nomination. The fix is in for Guiliani. He will be the sacrificial lamb for the republicans. They have already accepted the fact that 08 will not be their year. 08 will be a watershed year for the DEMs, monumental gains in the house and the senate. It doesn't matter who the GOP select. CLINTON will win the general election and become the first female President.

This is 2007 there are many means by which one can research a topic in order to better educate themselves. Try the official LDS website for starters (www.lds.org. A faithful honest Christain is exactly what this country needs. Mitch is probably the front runner in that category......as of right now.

Mitt shows us what class is!

Posted By KEITH JAMES LOUTTIT : November 11, 2007 9:35 pm

And judging by his repeated references to Barak Obams as "Osama" and his refusal to apologize for same, Mitt Romney has shown us that he has none.

I am a Mormon and I find it interesting how it's OK for people to say whatever they want about our faith and beliefs when the world is full of PC. Had Mrs. McCain made such a comment about Jewish peopple or people of different colors, she would have been hung out to dry. With Mormons, it's always open season. I don't care, really, because life goes on and stupid people make stupid comments. As Romney said, "anoyone over 90 gets a pass." By the way, I am NOT voting for my fellow Mormon candidate.

To Kelly:

What did you want Mitt to do – call Mrs McCain an ignorant old bigoted puppet? He has far too much class to give her comments any attention so he gave her a pass. It seems as if it is the classy route to go.

As for the elderly – if they have held some views for 95 years, no one is changing their mind. So it is better left untouched and 'given a pass' as Mitt would say.

He wasn't taking a jab at the elderly -he was taking the high road with this particular elderly.

Hello!?!

Wow – there are a lot of misconstrued ideas about Mormons out there. One post talked about a membership to the mormon temples. Another talked about a book of the Latter Day Saints. One can really see the back-woods ignorance out there because most of these people don't have a clue what they are talking about!

I believe that the media has to dig deep to find a bone of contention to pick with Mitt. I am astounded that his religion is sparking so many debates. His faith is just that – HIS – and FAITH. If faith were explainable then it wouldn't be faith. And, he is entitled to his beliefs without ridicule.

Grow up and get some class people.

Come on Howard Dean, where are you when we really need you? It's time for Dean to enter the 2008 Presidential race, come on Dean, it is finally your turn to "turn" the political tide of "keep it all in the family (bushclinton)", "don't let anyone new in the political 'game' because we (GOP & DNC) may lose all the marbles." Can't let anyone take OUR marbles now can we. We don't like to share, we won't share.

It is Howard Dean for 2008!

Did Mr. Mitt Romney make a declaration that he's not going to take an elderly person's comments seriously?? Nice. So Romney, at what age do we become voiceless and irrelevant in your eyes?? Just checking so that I know when it's pointless to speak up and/or vote. Oh, wait... the elderly can still vote even though you think they ramble insignificant remarks off the cuff. If someone says something ignorant or brilliant, the age shouldn’t be held against them. Now, if they suffer from an illness or mental condition, that’s one thing… but age, standing alone, is no reason to “excuse” someone's comments. Sounds like a convenient way to brush someone off and not have to answer to a particular claim.

Guess why the media (republicans) is making such a stink about Romney's religion? ... Because Mitt Romney has a strong probability to win the race and Mitt isn't anyone's (republican) puppet. Mitt Romney frightens the GOP and so it goes, the GOP will push hard at trying to break the only thing about Romney they think can push him aside in a very important race. Remember what the GOP did to Howard Dean? Dean was a well qualified former Governor who scared the heebeejeebees out of the GOP so what did they do? They took a sign of healthy expression (Dean's full-bodied scream) and made it into an ugly, unmanly fault. The GOP has no shame.

Romney's religious views are irrelevant in the 08 race. His religion is irrelevant. Those that fear that he is a devout Mormon are themselves afraid of many things in their own life. Fear, this goes out directly to all Americans, will keep you from living a full life, will keep you from making good, sound decisions and acting on them to improve your own life. Fear is what the GOP uses to get the fence sitters to follow their lead – look at the 00 and 04 Presidential race. The GOP's motto is so old and wornout that their very existence is brinking on extinction, and thank goodness for that.

A MORMON (slang for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) could make a great candidate. So could a JEW, MUSLIM or HINDU. The fact is, religion should be left out of the issue all together. Romney won't push religion on America if he was president, and as if anyone would at this point now.

If Jew was running for president, would people dare attack the religion? LET IT BE!

mormonism isn't a religion.
it's a cult.

Hey Dale in St. Petersburg:

How do Mormons not believe in the Jesus Christ that is in the Bible when we study the Old Testament, New Testament, as well as the Book of Mormon. We believe that Jesus Christ is the only begotten Son of God, born to the virgin Mary, who suffered in Gethsemane, died on the cross at Calvary, and was resurrected three days later. We believe that Jesus Christ is our Savior and Redeemer and through his grace we may be saved after all that we can do. If this isn't the Jesus Christ of the Bible, then you need to re-evaluate what you are being spoon fed from the pulpit by the profit motivated preachers out there.

By the way, why can't folks on this board spell. It is Mormon, not Morman. Better yet, it is the Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-Day Saints.

Sorry, but I think his religion is an issue. Joseph Smith was a palm reading, fortune telling, con man, and he is the Mormons' prophet? Golden plates in the woods? Translates the secret language printed on the plates from his house w a hat and a seer stone? Only in America.

Just three words - Mountain Meadows Massacre.

You know a person's religion has little or nothing to do with what kind of a person they are. There have been evil men that touted themselves as Christians (like Hitler) and very good men who weren't Christian at all (like Ghandi). Every religion has good people as well as people that misuse it for their own goals.

It's really sad to see so much ignorance, bigotry, and hatred manifest in some of these comments. Perhaps, this is the reason that much of the world has such a low opinion of us right now.

Wouldn't it be nice if a person could believe or worship in this country without others feeling like they have to go on the attack?

Wouldn't be nice to give people like Mitt a little bit of credibility for their accomplishments and values rather than dwelling on doctrinal differences?

He's no dummy and neither are the other 13 million people that happen to believe the same things he does...

David from Tampa Writes:

Romney's religion is important because of the Mormon's view on race.

The Book of Latter Day Saints specifically states that black people are inferior and cursed by God. And should be separated from the 'pure and preferred' white race.
____________________________________

David – you are so right! But, unfortunately it is not only the Mormon religion who is bigoted – it's most religions. For instance, I think you would find very few religions who would support a homosexual male or female in their religious community.

I'm sorry – I just do not think religion belongs in any sort of policital platform. People in political office need to stop using God in any way, shape or form. These people should not be thinking about their narrowminded crowd of like-minded thinkers. They need to be aware of ALL people, take away religious impressions, and make decisions based on what is right – not what the Bible, Koran, Book of Mormon (etc.) tells us that is right.

I'm so sick of Bush interjecting his God veiws into everything. You want to pray on your own – FINE. What I do not want, though, is for you to make decisions about my future based on your religious affiliation!

I'm sick of those people who tell us that their religious views shape who they are – blah, blah, blah. That is perfectly fine as long as you are not a politican who is voting ON MY BEHALF because you hold a personal view on something that is based in religion like: abortion, gay rights, gay marriage, etc., etc.

I could care less that Mitt Romney is a Mormon. He's a flip-flopper and not to be trusted. I actually thought his work in MA was pretty nobel given his religious affilition – that regardless of how he personally viewed things, he was willing to open up to civil unions in MA (I'm from NH, so we watch this stuff pretty closely). But, now that he's flip-flopped on that – sorry, I just do not trust him.

I USED to be Mormon, and I think there are a lot of good people in the church. However, I guess I'm just too scientific in my thought pattern to truly believe in everything they say (or any religion for that matter).

I like Mitt Romney and I am not a blue or a red supporting U.S. voter. Heck, I am not a Mormon either. I am an independent woman from California with a conscience. Romney seems to have a quiet power inside him that screams leadership and balance, two things we need desperately in the United States right now and as we move into the future. Just because I am a woman doesn't mean that I would vote for the only female candidate for U.S. Prez. What I know for sure, she is not the right candidate.

Romney said he didn't feel it was the right time, but was "open to the idea."

This is what will destroy the Romney campaign. Romney does NOT want people to know the details of how Mormonism came to exist. Anyone who would believe such cooky stuff is not smart enough to be President of the United States. We might as well have a Scientologist run for president.

Posted By marquis : November 12, 2007 9:14 am

This guy is a Moron... All what he is doing is flip flopping on your face....Try google him on more issues you see....

As a NON BIBLE THUMPING REPUBLICAN who believes in God, but doesn't base decisions on "faith", I am sick of reading and hearing you liberal nitwits hammering this guy on his religion, fearing that he is going to bring his religion into office or flat out LYING that all he talks about is his "faith".

By the way, when Lemocrats are down south ALL of them purposely put in references to faith and beliefs, so save the BS that it is only Republicans.

They all do it and I do agree that I wish they ALL would not.

As Governor for four years he NEVER shoved it down our throats and I find it disgsuting that it gets brought up on him, what faith is Hillary believing in this week, how about Obama and his churches beliefs?

Check out the head of his church and what he spews, not some BS about 200 years ago, but what his "leader" is spewing now.

If he was Jewish would this even be an issue? Doubt it.

They did this same BS to John Kennedy (the only good Kennedy) and it was wrong then as it is now.

This is all the "dirt" you can dig up on this guy, ONE wife, GOOD family man, NEVER cheated or ALLOWED cheating, NO smoking, swearing or drinking and you sheep find that bad???

The sad state of the Republican Party:

It used to be about the economy. It used to be about taxes. It used to be about foreign policy.

It's now about which religious screwball is truly "Holier than Thou".

As Charlie Brown once said: "Good Grief!!"

for the life of me can't figure out how Mitt's religion has been such a focal point for everyone. I couldn't even tell you any of the other candidates faiths This seems to be predjudice in it's most blatant form

Posted By Sidney madsen : November 12, 2007 3:44 am

I think this is a calculated thing... I think he is making a case here so that he can be able to cover so much baggage he carry from his shody job in massachusetts to being a CEO of Bain venture capital that had alot of illegal activities in massachusetts...I hope you focus more on where this guy is coming from. He also said he is lucky his sons are not in IRaQ and he pity poor Americans on Jay leno....

Attention Conservative Christians who won't vote for a Mormon:

When you understand why you so readily reject others' interpretations of God, perhaps you will understand why so many reject yours.

We're all in the same boat seeking the same ultimate truth. Different religious and scientific views are different ways to that ultimate truth. The day we realize there is no one true way is the day we begin working together and end these silly factions that divide us.

Mormonism is a hot topic to say the least. However this is the religion that a potential president is involved in. Mormonism does not follow the Jesus of the Bible, PERIOD! If Mr. Romney does not see that, what else will he miss as Commander in Chief? Will he follow another wrong path that will affect YOU and ME? This is more than just a man's religion here. It's about a leader who goes the wrong way.

Good for you Mr. Romney.
Like Senator McCain, you are a gentleman and a scholar.

Keith Ellison is a wonderful person. I have personal experience working with him from a Non Profit perspective. And honestly, I had no clue he was a Muslim until he was elected and it came up. Mr. Ellison is an honest, hard working person. Perhaps Mr. Romney is as well, except how will most people know if their opinions are clouded by his religious beliefs? He's not hiding from his religion, which can be respected, however, the only reason Mormonism isn't getting people driven out of town anymore is because we're more tolerant. Just because people are more tolerant doesn't mean the "cult" has suddenly turned into a "religion". All religions were cults at some point in time. That's why NONE of them should be a point of contention when voting for a POLITICAL LEADER.

Glen Oster,

What a ridiculous, incoherent statement. You obviously have no idea what you're talking about. A satanic cult? Seriously? You need to get out more, sir. Wake that hateful heart up a bit and get with it.

That seem to have really gotten you right? You must be a mormon and Romney supporter, I give you a pass too....

Keith Ellison is a Muslim; why aren't people whining about him trying to force Islam on America? Why is he allowed to be in Washington? Isn't he a supporter of terrorism if he's Muslim?

FlangeSqueal, I must belong to a different Mormon church than the one you know of, because I'm pretty sure in my 33 years of being a member, there has been no "alien talk."

Mormonism is not Christian based and it is a satanic cult - is this why Mitt doesn't want to talk about it. OH, and by the way Mitt is not only a Mormon, he's a member of the elite – as in a member of the Mormon Temple.

BillyBoy, glad to see you watched South Park.

A few things:
1. It's nice to see that Mitt is such a good sport. Some would use that as an opportunity to mudsling.

2. His religion is an issue just like every other candidate's religion is an issue. Even on CNN's description of the candidates, it LISTS the religion of the candidate. If it wasn't important to potential voters, it wouldn't be included. For instance, we don't ask what sort of soap these people use; boxers or briefs; their most embarassing gradeschool moment. But, religion is somehow everyone's business – whether people wan't to believe it or not. Think we'll ever have an openly ATHIEST president? (One can dream!)

3. Romney can give Mrs. McCain a pass for being over 90. Similarly, I will pass on voting for someone who believes that a known con-artist looked into a hat with magic spectacles and was somehow able to translate invisible golden plates. I'm sure he's a really nice guy, but I personally don't want to see a president with a magic wand and a rabbit up his sleeve instead of a game plan. As far as I'm concerned, we already have one of those in office right now. Look how well that's working out for us!

The mormons are an evil cult...Mrs. Romney hit the nail right on the head.

Why else is Willard so afraid of talking about his whack cult's beliefs ? Jesus was an alien....yeah – right.

A MORMON could make a great candidate. So could a JEW, MUSLIM or HINDU. The fact is, religion should be left out of the issue all together.

I'm MORMON, BUT that doesn't make me anymore predisposed to vote for MITT. I will vote for the candidate who I think will do the best job as president. AND, I think that most MORMONS feel just like I do.

why do people think Romney will inject his religion into his politics? He hasn't done so as Governor of Mass. It is illegal to do so. HE'd be impeached if he did so.

To Vince Foster,

You are exactly what is wrong with America. It has always baffled me as to why so many hate Mormons. If they open a new temple it will surely be surrounded with ignorant, hateful picketers who say incredibly offensive things – not at all Christlike. Notice you won't see any Mormons lining up around your churches or persecuting you for what you believe. You people won't vote for a Mormon? What a bunch of sad, ignorant people. And we're supposed to be God's country...

A failed treasure hunter named Joseph Smith convinced a group of people that an angel named Moroni (also a place in the Caribean where pirates would hide treasure) came to him and told him to secretly dig a spot on a hill where he would find a book with metal pages. Moroni told Joseph that he could use some magic rocks found in a hole when Joseph was digging a well to decode the metal pages. Moroni said that no one was allowed to ever see the book except for him. Joseph put his face into a hat and read off what the book said while someone else wrote it down. This is the Book of Mormon.

I don't think Romney wants to stand on a stage and answer these kinds of questions. He'll look like Jim Jones or David Karesh by the time the Democrats are done with him.

Romney's religion is important because of the Mormon's view on race.

The Book of Latter Day Saints specifically states that black people are inferior and cursed by God. And should be separated from the 'pure and preferred' white race.

Don't take my word for it, or any one elses word against it – research it yourselves.

This is why Romney does NOT want to discuss his 'religion'. Because he knows it is a supremacist religion.

How has this become a focal point?? (By the way, I'm referring to Romney's religion. I could just as easily be referring to the barrage of unnecessary comments in this string about spelling errors, which have been corrected...) Catholic, Jew, Mormon, etc., it should be a non-issue.

Romney isn't open to ANY ideas. At least, not any that involve enhancing individual liberty, and those are the only ones that really count with me.

That was class to not speak back at the really old, stern lady. The religion is not an issue and her comments were not relevant to America or this campaign.

Watch out for the Romney bus as it comes through your town spewing Prayerpaganda.

That's funny. I wouldn't give Romney a "pass" to go to the bathroom!

As a heathen son of a pastor I do not see how religion has anything to do with politics.
but as it is, as a person who worships gods other then the God of Abraham(Of the Christians, Jew, Muslims, and if you insist on them being seperate the Mormans. i would never even see my name oon the balot, even were I the best canidate, and the best one to be in charge. So realy religion and religious belife has nothing to do with politics. It may have in Dark Ages Europe, but not Modern America.

Gods All Bless Us, each and every one.

I wouldn't vote for Romney any more than I would vote for Hillary! Slime is still slime no matter how you disguise it as Mormon, sexual unknown or whatever.

politics religion = redundancy
all these groups have zealots that have a belief that all should be free to do as they wish as long as their little splinter group says it is ok..
the best known art of JUNK SIENCE is politics ..

I guess you could consider me an "evangelical" christian if we must use labels, however I'd have no problem voting a Mormon in office. Too bad I don't like people who change their stance on issue for political convenience:

In Romney's own words:

I think all religions are wacky and anyone who believes in any of them should be certified insane; however, the Mormon (LDS) faith is even wackier than most – surpssed in the US only by Scientology, in my opinion. Anyone who can believe all that stuff should be locked up, and not in the White House!

Hasn't our country learned from this administration the effects of involving religion in politics? There is a reason why our founding fathers wanted "separation of church & state". I don't care what someone's religion is so long as they do not use it as an excuse to invade soverign nations. I wish our candidates would stop pandering to these religious groups and stick to the issues that affect ALL Americans and not just a selected few.

Huge boost for Romney in a new poll of Florida today, as he jumps in to second place and as Thompson tumbles down to 5th. The poll also has general election numbers so check it out here.

If anyone - TV analyst, news reporter or talk show host had said they wouldn't vote for a JEW in Joe Lieberman or a CATHOLIC in John Kennedy , they'd be vilified.

Don't judge a religion's present impact and influence based on the past. What about the cruelty of today's Islamo-Nazi terrorists? what about Muslim apologists? What about Christian misdeeds during the Crusades? We don't say "Oh, no I'm not voting for a <i.Christian! Do you know what they did in the 13th Century?"

On all of these boards where Mitt is concerned, Evangelicals post they are bent out of shape that Joseph Smith says the Lord told him that all churches on the Earth are an abomination. Here is the exact quote from the Doctrine and Covenants of the church, "I was answered that I must join none of them, for they were all wrong; and the Personage who addressed me said that all their creeds were an abomination in his sight; that those professors were all ccorrupt; that: “they ddraw near to me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me, they teach for doctrines the commandments of men, having a form of godliness, but they deny the power thereof.” And to that I say so what. Evangelicals and other relgions feel the same way about the LDS. It is not ok for Mormons to think they are the one true church but it is ok for Evangelicals, Methodists, Presbyterians, etc. to say they have the only true religion and that Mormons aren't Christians? Pope Benedict said the same thing about the Catholic church months ago and no one raised a ruckus over that. Give me a break. I have a problem with Mitt catering to these Evangelical hate mongers who can't even agree on doctrine amongst themselves let alone bash someone else's beliefs. However, Mitt showed he was a class act in giving Mrs. McCain a pass and I thought John McCain showed some class as well in his response. Let's leave religion out of it and focus on the issues of the day.

The mormons I know are excellent neighbors! Might even make good presidents. As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints I know they don't believe in Presbyters, Episcapols, Roman Cathos or any other Cathos, Baptists...1st 2nd or third, Evangelists, Methods or any of that confusion....they follow Jesus Christ and his teachings from the Bible.

I wonder if Mrs. McCain might have been alluding to a different scandal...the one in which forged documents concerning the founding and early days of the Mormon church led to burglaries and at least one murder? In the remarks I have seen quoted, there is no reference to the Olympic scandal per se.

Mormons? I don't have a problem with them. But Mitt is a MORON.

Marquis wrote, "Romney does NOT want people to know the details of how Mormonism came to exist. Anyone who would believe such cooky stuff is not smart enough to be President of the United States. We might as well have a Scientologist run for president."

You must not be Christian, because every Christian religion has "cooky stuff." Mary having a baby that is the son of God? Moses parting the Red Sea? Christ being resurected? All of the miracles read about in the New Testament? The "facts" upon which Christianity in general bases its claim to truth are just as extraordinary as the foundations of Mormonism.

It is interesting to note that when Christ lived, the Jewish establishment perceived Christianity as a cult. When Luther and Locke and all of the great men associated with the Protestant Reformation challenged the Catholic Church, they and their followers were considered a cult. Now, you have some of those religions that used to be "cults" in the eyes of the Catholic Church calling Mormonism a cult. Give it another couple of hundred years and Mormons will be considered just as Christian as the Evangelicals.

My question to all the would-be Romney voters out there is, very simply, WHY? John Kerry lost his bid for president because he was successfully cast as a "flip-flopper". I literally cannot imagine how you think Romney will escape the same criticism. Romney ran for governor in MA as a pro-choice republican who worked (with recognized success) towards legalizing civil unions. He has since completely reversed his opinions on these issues, and is ambiguous on others. For example, when asked about his strategy for dealing with the impending strain on social security he suggests forming a separate committee to look into social security issues. That's great Mitt, but we want to know your opinions on the issues, not how well you can delegate responsibility.

Ok, they made a minor mistake, people. No one has started a war over it, and it was edited. Drop the 'Christ' outrage.

As for Candidate Romney, bravo. The right amount of tact and style, with no cheap shots at Sen. McCain included. Well done.

Romney said he didn't feel it was the right time, but was "open to the idea."

This is what will destroy the Romney campaign. Romney does NOT want people to know the details of how Mormonism came to exist. Anyone who would believe such cooky stuff is not smart enough to be President of the United States. We might as well have a Scientologist run for president.

Reality Check (and others with similar opinions) - I'd LOVE to leave religion out of the whole political mess, but it seems to be mostly Republicans who always bring it up. And honestly, wearing it on their personal sleeves is not a problem with me. It's when they continuously rub my face in their sleeve that I get irritated, as they seem to do on a daily basis. As for Rommney, if he wants to campaign on religion, then he should be prepared to take the inevitable shots fired back.

I am a Mommon of 32 years, and it is an OUTSTANDING religion. We LOVE going to church each week, LOVE our association with inspiring wonderful, decent people who are hard working, humble, family centered, Christ loving people. Mormons are the cream of the crop in our associations with them, and they actually practice what they preach. I can't tell you the countless acts of kindness, service, financial, social and spiritual help they have been to my family over the years. Knowing what we know about what this religion does for people's lives, America will be very lucky to have Romney in office.

And, by the way...

I think Mr. Romney was very gracious regarding Mrs. McCain (and would bet that John McCain will thank him for that).

We could all use a bit more graciousness when dealing with each other!

I don't think Mr. Romney's religion is any more important than the religion of any of the other candidates.

I've worked for a number of years with a lot of different people and their religion means nothing when it comes to doing the job.

Do CNN New Hampshire Producers not have spell check or proof their submissions?
Christ Matthews?

I just heard Mitt in NH this past week: 1/2 of his presentation was about what he did for the Olympics and listing the Olympians he met. The rest were grand ideas and no specifics.

As for his religion ... some evangelical Christians do not believe that Mormans are Christians ... and so will vote against Mitt on that reason alone.

Personally speaking, I am not impressed with the Christian monopoly for the last 7 years: With so many problems that need solving, war, health care, falling dollar, sub-prime loans, I don't have time to worry about the narrow focus of the religious right.

MORMONS ARE OK IN MY BOOK, I am sure so would like to use bigotry as a wedge but it won't work.

My bigger concern is Hillary who has no heart seems to have aged 10 years in the last 12 months.

I for the life of me can't figure out how Mitt's religion has been such a focal point for everyone. I couldn't even tell you any of the other candidates faiths This seems to be predjudice in it's most blatant form

Christ Matthews? Really?

I'm thinking Abraham Simpson's mother for some reason...

How old is John McCain, like 70?
Where does his Grandpa stand in all of this. I would say, John McCain should announce his running mate right now – I wouldn't want to give him the job of president without knowing who is going to take over for him when he croaks.

Eric, somehow it got cut off of the beginning of my posting, but I was raised LDS and was devout until I was 19 years old (4 years of seminary, one year at the University of Utah LDS Institute of Religion, etc.) It was repeated to us again and again and again. God came down to Joseph Smith and had him restore the ONE TRUE Church on the earth, because He (God) felt all the other religions were "abominations." That's the wellspring from which the whole LDS religion flows.

Poorly written article. Romney wasn't asked why he didn't discuss his faith more openly on the campaign trail. He was asked if it was necessary to have an entire special speech dedicated to it. The thinking is that he has been so open about it on the trail that it such a speech is unnecessary.

A lousy article. I believe it was 'Chris Matthews' who did the interview. Otherwise, that is some interview.

Richard, from Derry, New Hampshire:

You are an ignorant, bigoted 'moron'.

Nice Freudian slip in this post: "Christ Matthews" ???

Richard in NH –

Your post is incoherent and ignorant. You must have been raised by Mrs. McCain to hold such ignorant views.

You obviously have a chip on your shoulder regarding the morman faith. I think it is so simple minded to stereotype (ie: "I don't want a mormon in the white house..."). I pity you.

Reality Check: Actually I'd like to know what kind of underwear Hillary wears, after all we had to endure the 'boxers or briefs' debate with Mr. Bill!

I bet Huma Abedin can tell us!

I'm still trying to figure out what the hell she was talkibg about. The quote is completely nonsensical.

Why is Romney's religion such a hot topic in politics?

Can you imagine asking Hilary Clinton what kind of underware she has on, or if she had premarital sex with Bill (although the simple thought of that makes me shutter), or if she were drilled on her religion at every corner?

It is time for America to leave Romney's religion alone and focus on how well he would do as a president. He is an articulate speaker, has fantastic ideas, is a proven business man and is a good decent person. Enough of the religion already! Lets focus on the REAL topics. PLEASE!!!

What is "Morman"?

Christ Matthews?
that's a bit much...

Mitt shows us what class is! Right on Mitt!

"When asked if he would start to discuss his faith more openly on the campaign trail, Romney said he didn't feel it was the right time, but was 'open to the idea.'" Okay, religion and politics do not mix. Tell us what you can do for us, thank you, without injecting faith. We all have our own faiths to adhere to, but religious faith is not what I cast my vote on.

you were not over 90years old when you called Obama Osama but he gave you a pass too. I just think he gave you a pass because you are a mormon and you would say anything.....If that scandal in SLC had nothing to do wit it, how about bain financial company that you founded in massachusetts that has been involved in illegal activities....Romney I am not voting for you, you know why, I don't want a mormon in the white house....not good for my son....

"McCain's mother told host Christ Matthews"
Christ??? Okay, the "t" is nowhere near the "s" or the "spacebar."