January 5, 2008
Posted: 09:13 AM ET
On Friday, the McCain camp sent out old Romney comments praising the senator.

On Friday, the McCain camp sent out old Romney comments praising the senator.

(CNN) – Republican John McCain’s campaign responded to a statement by rival Mitt Romney that there was "no way" the Arizona senator could claim to be a candidate of change by sending reporters a 2002 quote in which he said McCain “has always represented change.”

“There’s no way that Sen. McCain is going to be able to come to New Hampshire and say that he’s the candidate that represents change — that he’ll change Washington. He is Washington,” Romney said on the campaign trail Friday.

Shortly afterwards, the McCain camp circulated comments Romney made when he was running for governor of Massachusetts more than five years ago.

“One of the reasons the people of America honor Sen. McCain and why I'm so proud to have him standing with me today is that he has brought American values to the debate on the issues we care about,” Romney said at the time. “He has always stood for reform and change.”

UPDATE: Romney campaign spokesman Kevin Madden said Friday afternoon that "Washington has not changed in the right direction during Senator McCain’s long career there.

"The legislation that McCain most expressly advocated—campaign finance reform and immigration reform—were the wrong approaches on both issues. We need more meaningful change brought about by someone with a proven record of actually turning things around."

The Romney campaign also emailed a newspaper account of some of McCain's own 2002 comments, in which he praised then-gubernatorial candidate Mitt Romney as an individual with the "honesty and integrity who will make the tough decision based on what's best for the state and not the individual. That's the theme of Mitt Romney's campaign, and if that message gets across he's going to be fine."

–CNN's Rebecca Sinderbrand

Filed under: John McCain • Mitt Romney


Jan   January 10th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

First of all as a corporate working professional female, whose husband served in the U. S. Air Force, I have been trained to identify phoniness in a heartbeat and Hillary Clinton is the biggest, fattiest phony I have every seen. Not to mention her sad-weak husband Bill.

They are the perfect picture of Jezebel and Ahab; Hillary being Jezebel of course, and Bill being Ahab. However, we have had enough with Hillary and Bill; I mean Bill and Hillary Clinton in this great country.

Schroeder, I was not going to vote until, I saw your friend’s Academy Award winning performance on television.

Hillary swayed my/our votes to Senator Barack Obama and our 5, 000 + church membership, and their family members. We will vote for Senator Obama because we are “BELIVERS” first and secondly, to stand against Hillary Clinton, and third to keep from voting for Hillary and Bill Clinton; I mean Hillary Clinton.

This GAINT Nation is sounding off loud and clear that, they are absolutely tired of the filthy, awful, and disgustful doings of Bill and Hillary Clinton.

Anytime a grown man takes advantage of a young lady (during the ‘80’s), which he cowardly denied, or vehemently declared that “I did not have sex with that woman” LIAR! LIAR!…. should never, ever attempt to lead these great United Stated in any capacity, at anytime…referring to Bill Clinton of course.

The AGING Clintons should go home, sit down on the porch, and gracefully shut-up regarding politics…..they are desperate for power, which they will never, ever have again and they are a TAINTED-embarrassment to society.

Nicolas B   January 6th, 2008 3:16 am ET

I am 18 years old and a senior in high school. I like politics, and am thrilled with my privilege to vote this year. As I have tuned into this year's race for the presidency, I have seen and heard mature adults allow emotion to cloud their powers of reason. Please, do not attack negativity with negativity, and please do your own research.

Louisa Freiberger   January 5th, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Hello, I just wanted to say that I felt Senator Ron Paul was very strong in the debate and yet was not even mentioned by anyone afterwards. You all spent a good 10 minutes mentioning everyone elses strong points except Sen. Paul's. Whats up with that. You, as a news team should present each one of the candidates, not just who YOU think has a better chance of winning.

Bob, Sacramento, CA   January 5th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

Romney attempts to protray himself as a man of change and immediately after Iowa smacks of transparency and shows him for the phoney he is. Political expediency is his priority andnot the welfare of this country. It's ironic that Hillary Clinton is abused because of her naked ambition for the presidency and Romney is not. Although Hillary has a lot to be politically abused for, ambtion is not one of them.
McCain on the other hand is still looking for a war he can win and would keep us involved in Iraq for what? One hundred years or more? He said so. Too old and with a tired old man's perception of Iraq, McCain is more interested in how to stay in Iraq rather than how we get out of Iraq. America is fed up with the likes of old war horses like McCain so best he retire where he can read war stories all day and revel in past glories rather than heaping his fantasies on present ones.

Sarah   January 5th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

McCaine should play the video where Romney is praising his immigration reform bill. That is what I call positive advertising! Mitt has said all things in a bid to be all things to all people all the time. This is why he is unpredictable and untrustworthy. NH, vote McCaine and put Mitt out of this race so that we can nominate a president. Remember polls show that 48% of americans would never under any circumnstances vote for Romney or Clinton. Democrats are getting it and voting for Obama, we too need to get it and vote for McCaine in NH.

Kris In Atlanta   January 5th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

This is sad. Millions of dollars spent, a semi-candid discussion on his unusual faith, and a host of not very funny joke-telling and Romney still can't be depended on to tell how he REALLY feels. Hmmm, and let's remember this man has been a frontrunner for Republicans most of the year. Hmmm, its easy to see how Bush got in office: Republicans don't seem to care whether they have a candidate whose honest; they just like a candidate who can keep his flip-flopping to a minimal and tell a lie without cracking a smile. Thanks so much, Romney! You and Mccain/Huckabee/Giuliani are the reasons we'll thankfully have a Democrat back in the White House in'09.

Paul Jamieson   January 5th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Mike is the classis liberal from Massachusetts trying to tell us not to vote for Romney

Thank you Mike - you are making a great endorsement for our guy.

Mike   January 5th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

Jay Bee, I am a Massachusetts resident and once admired Mitt Romney. After a long learning curve, I now know the real Romney and he is not fit for US President. McCain and others have learned a lot about Romney since the YouTube you reference.

There is a difference in changing a position or learning a revelation that compels a stance (applies to all people) than lieing and being a hypocrite. Using intellectual honesty, does anyone really think Romney's Hunter story was not completely fabricated? A politician can become pro-life all of the sudden. But a politician can all get caught in lie because he changes his story one too many times.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iJUdMJIKnTs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPrZ2VtD0yQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UeUK0N6D3co

Mike   January 5th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Flip flopper is not as accurate as 'liar and hypocrite'
1) Utah resident "yes" when it saved $54K "no" when Jane Swift tanked and Romney saw opportunity for Gov. (lied)
2) NRA supportor "yes" (lied)
3) Hunter "yes" (lied)
4) Illegal immagrants working in backyard TWICE (hypocrite)
5) 100000 other people's kids for army (hypocrite)
6) Offshore tax avoidance (hypocrite)
7) Pro-choice for GOP & Pro-life for Democratic election (?)
8) Independant during Reagan/Bush for Democratic election and Reagan Conservative for GOP election (?)
9) Anti-pornography for elections - pornography pofiteer at Marriott (hypocrite)
10) Anti-racism for elections - Sodexho Marriott $80M "admit no wrong-doing" race discrimination case with claims in1998 while Romney was signatory, "I shed a tear when my faith accepted minorities…" (hypocrite &/or liar)
11) Finally Romney get a newspaper endorsement in New England…the Weirs Times up near his multi-million dollar summer home in Wolfboro, NH.

Walt, Belton, TX   January 5th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

James From Austin, Texas,
I sincerely appreciated your comments and the way you presented them. You've been given insights most of us will never have the opportunity to see. I think you're probably right on the money about every candidate you've met.

By the way, your councilman sounds an awful lot like "our" Governor. In his case, the bumper sticker on my truck is appropriate: "Politicians, like diapers, should be changed often. And for the same reason."

Keep writing, I'm probably not the only one who appreciates reading your work.

EntertainMeDontBoreMe   January 5th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

McCain may be a Washington insider - but Romney is a Mormon insider. This is a religion that indoctrinates all the young women to believe that they have to do whatever the old men tell them to do. And what kind of freedom does this religion give to the young Mormon women? - The freedom to become subservient to an old Mormon man - specially selected for her by some other old men. Go Republicans! Nominate Romney, so the press can shine a spotlight on Mormonism as never before, and people will see it for what it is.

mh austin   January 5th, 2008 12:29 pm ET

Sorry, my last comment was for James, from Austin, Texas

mh austin   January 5th, 2008 12:27 pm ET

James,
Have you met any of the other Republican and independent candidates? I'm interested in the backside insight on all the candidates, and I felt you gave some very candid replies. Also, I read that Obama is courting the internet crowd. Is he better at responding to supporters in that forum?

Jay Bee, USA   January 5th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

Listen to how McCain described Romney when he was running for Governor. McCain called him "a man of honesty and integrity… a role model for the youth of the country…"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QA7JTDjG-Po

Since they both supported each other, they real question is do you want a long time Washington Insider or a man that specializes in looking at a company and making it prosper again. A vote for Mitt Romney is a vote for a balanced budget, he has the skills to build teams, set a realistic path, and follow through to completion. IIn my humble opinion, Mr. Romney is electable and has the economic knowledge to know what types of economic sanctions will most influence rogue nations.

DT, Comstock Park, MI   January 5th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

"McCain may have stood for change in Washington at one time, but did things change? No. Look at the immigration status in the country. Look at other things McCain has tried to 'change'. Some of them not even very Republican in nature, so while he might have stood for change, he certainly hasn't made it happen, and his time has passed."

While McCain may not be my first choice, if you think one man can engineer change on his own, I'd find you quite naive. I believe McCain still wishes for change –however, it's hard to engineer change when a majority of Congress doesn't appear to want it.

I'd agree with you that his alignments have changed some, which is why my first choice would be Ron Paul in 2008. However, I'd take McCain over Romney, Giuliani, or Huckabee any day of the week.

Mike   January 5th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Hello Everyone.

You can look at all the minute details about Obama, Huckabee and McCain all that you want. The bottom line here I believe is we have 3 rare politicians who actually stand for something other than the financial and political Elite! Obama coming from a more humanistic view, Huckabee from a Christian centric humanistic view and McCain who actually loves this country more than his pocket book or cronies! Add to this these three men connect with large swaths of both sides of the isle means a ground swell of potential change in favor of the middle class in this country. I think that most of us blogging on this sight come from this large block of middle class voters. Finally we have a choice not of lesser evils but of lesser goods WOW! I am a Democratic centrist by nature and although I disagree with Huckabee, Obama and McCain, on some issues, I believe that if one of these three men wins the presidency we will come together as a nation and safe face in this world as a power needs to survive. We need a leader who can unite us in victory or defeat in Iraq and a leader who can unite the middle class to take back our country and bring us into the future with, not against, the powers of China, Russia, India & Iran.

bob springfield mo   January 5th, 2008 11:11 am ET

Mitt, I saw you on TV last night. What hair coloring did you use. It looked different than the shade last week. Did you ever think about going "natural"……it would help if you did.

Mario   January 5th, 2008 11:00 am ET

Mitt might want to tone it way down and keep to a certain issue, putting McCain down isn't the way to do it. He might be surprised after next week and have to drop out and maybe even endorse McCain in the end.

Kate   January 5th, 2008 10:59 am ET

MItt Romney seems all right on the face of it, but there is something very sterile about him (in the sense of too perfect, etc).

When his sons were lauding his work ethic on a program the other day, some of the things they said made me realize how out of touch they were.

First, they said that every Saturday their dad made them get up early and "work." Okay, that's fine. But it struck me that many working and lower class people have teenagers who work to earn money because that is what they need to do to provide some of their necessities. They weren't just being told to do chores in order to develop a work ethic, because it's a good thing. They have a work ethic because it's their key to survival.

Second, they bragged about Mitt working on vacations. That is a very upper class idea. It's actually a luxury if you think about it. Factory workers can't take their work home with them, or "work on vacation."

In fact, some people need the money so on their vacation days, they may even do side jobs or temp work.

I think there's really a disconnect there.

Vicki Hampton Hanceville Alabama   January 5th, 2008 10:46 am ET

I don't see a Democrat taking any oath next January especially as President. That is a real case of wishful Democratic thinking.

John Shevlin   January 5th, 2008 10:23 am ET

Watching the debates several weeks ago turned me completely off to Mitt Romney. He doesn't answer questions directly, waffles on his own actions and seems like the "typical" baby-kissing politician to me. No thanks Mitt!

PW Va   January 5th, 2008 10:18 am ET

Having spent millions of his own money in Iowa and not becoming one of the top 3 candidates, expect Mitt's campaign ads to get nastier and sleazier!!! There's not a Christian bone in this man's body…so beware!!!

GEORGE   January 5th, 2008 10:05 am ET

They all talk about money in the campains, Not until you take the big money out of campains, will ever get a person with some down home common sence who lives doing the right thing every day. It is one of those people that we need in the White House, someone that will say its not whats good for the republicans or what good for the democrats but its whats right for all americans, because your that before your a spicfic party, Not everyone can always have there way, sometimes i think we as a country forget that. It is simply amazing that people would spend hundreds of millions of dollars, to get a job that pays 200,000.00 a year. Seems to me we could spend some of that money in better places?

James, from Austin, Texas   January 5th, 2008 9:59 am ET

I think many prior McCain voters may be considering Obama, and for the reasons I posted in blogs regarding Hillary Clinton, I would suggest weighing these thoughts - and reconsidering McCain as you vote - and vote for him over Romney or Obama.

My obversations of Obama: I had started supporting Obama in 2004! in Texas, and did alot to talk him up here and at the University of Texas. I had photographed him 3 times in close quarters, and talked to him directly for a few minutes at one. I had made contributions to him the first 2 quarters of 2007. I was not the only one who put in ALOT of work to help him. Has his campaign found ways to get us involved or showed appreciation for our efforts? NO! His support in Austin has eroded in large areas, and his last rally here was MUCH smaller than the large Feb. 07 rally, that drew 20,000 people. His only contact with those of us, like myself who wanted to support him - has been "give me money" email and "hey come out to my rally!" email.

When I tried to give my concerns to the Obama people repeatedly!! by email and by phone, it was largely disregarded. When my concerns to a phone solicitor hit home at the time, and she gave me the national phone number, that national person's attitude was "hey there are too many people for us to follow up with" and we are focusing on the first 3 states. There was a strong arrogance with the person, as if Obama knows all and doesn't need any input on things from anyone. Is this giving a voice to those who are not lobbyists? Granted, the top person can't hear from everyone (despite Obama's rhetoric), but most campaigns understand that you need levels of leadership in a campaign to fully engage people nationally. This same mechanism is also required as President - since you need more than a podium and TV to truly engage people. While Obama gives lip service to this notion, his action and follow through are horribly lacking afterwards. Obama's is so restricted at the national level, they don't even engage voluntary groups like "Texans for Obama" - despite their efforts to help him.

There is a local young candidate here for city council who was like that, great initial candidate with charm and apparent charisma - but after winning he was largely dismissive of those that supported him. That city councilman has turned out to be one of the worst office holders in Austin. He tried to be friend to everyone, and he has come out to be friend to no one. Why? Inexperience! While Obama wants to have everyone have a voice equal to lobbyists and insiders, he is achieving this by excluding most everyone from input. While he has courted Iowa, NH, and SC closely, do not be mistaken - after you vote you won't hear or have any way to contact or be involved in his campaign, in my opinion - other than repeated "give me money" emails.

Having met all the top D candidates and also McCain on the R side, the two candidates that I think are the most personable when they are not wanting something from you are - Hillary and McCain. I was within the Secret Service bubble with Hillary for 3 hours and she was incredibly gracious and willing to listen to anyone. Obama was a rock star (in a negative way) in a similar position, and pretty much gives a smile, great giving speeches, but far LESS effective one-on-one than Hillary.

McCain also was willing to talk to people honestly, and I think also is someone that has incredible experience - and is not a gamble. I saw McCain get hit with a tough, emotional question from an audience member about health care, and he intently listened, and then gave his answer starting with, "you probably won't like my answer, but here it is …" While I don't agree with McCain on all issues, he is genuine and capable. For those independents who do not like Hillary, I might suggest strongly giving a second look to McCain.

As an independent moderate, I hope my insight from Texas can help you all in NH better judge these candidates from a different perspective - the back side of their campaigns (the side you all don't see!).

Take care.

Renaisauce   January 5th, 2008 9:19 am ET

I think Mitt is the only Republican candidate with enough actual competence to be president. But I don't think he'll become president, simply because he has a tough time speaking clearly to the public and relating to people who are lower-middle class. I see Mitt as becoming a new and improved Al Gore, taking the lead on some major issue and making a killing, and everyone will be standing around in 4 years with a mediocre Democratic president going, "wait, I forget. Why didn't we vote for this guy?"

Fred   January 5th, 2008 9:14 am ET

YS in Fullerton, CA — TS is exactly right. The republicans brought religion in and are reaping what they have sown. Romney does not havve what it takes to be president. He would just be a very slightly improved George W. Bush.

America needs to get away from "God told me" politics and our leaders need to make cool, calculated, and considered decisions. That BS about God talking to Bush and telling him there would be no American casualties in Iraq is one of the reasons we are now mired there with nearly 3000 Americans dead and some 30,000 wounded and maimed.

Romney is just a leaf being blown by the corporate wind. He flip-flops. He doesn't hold the best interests of his constituents as the highest priority (except for the corporate ones), and he plays the religion card over and over.

What will it take for you people to finally realize this country was founded on the separation of church and state? Romney doesn't understand that.

"Anything but the hair!"

Kyle, NY   January 5th, 2008 9:05 am ET

Mitt, shut up! everytime you say something someone has a quote or a video clip showing you saying the opposite. Mitt Romney for President "He was on your side at some point"

Vince1310 Dallas,TX   January 5th, 2008 8:40 am ET

Im a Republicrat(Democrat/Republican), Im voting stright Democrat this time, Bush and Karl Rove in 2004 made you Christians look like IDIOT'S , So I can run for president and bring my Karl Rove look a like and just say those words "Jesus,Flag,Bible, and Bald Eagle" and you Moron's will vote for me, hey it worked in 2004 why cant it work now???? And Mitt Romney this guy's religion did not like my race(black folk's) until the late 70's, Morman's thought black folks were going to Hell just for being black ???? Please all Mitt is ,is a under cover David Duke. Clinton's approval rating was higher than Bush's and to top it all off this was during the Stained Dress Scandal.

Kevin, Derry, NH   January 5th, 2008 8:16 am ET

People who claim to be "Life-Long" Republicans or "Life-Long" Democrats drive me up the wall. It's like fingernails on the chalk board. It means you don't vote for the best candidate; you vote for the best party member. It's cyclical, sometimes the nation needs a democrat, sometimes a republican… maybe even a green party member. Please vote for the candidate that will best suit the current needs of the nation and not be blinded by the political assocation your mother told you you were a member of.

James Jonas   January 5th, 2008 7:40 am ET

A man running for the Presidency of the United States must have intergrity. At
this time anyone who even think for a moment to cast any vote for this man is
either a lunatic or seriously brain dead. Here is a man who first saw his father
matching with Martin Luther King for civil right - which has been comfirmed to
be untruth. He was once for gay right, and now he is not. When McCain was
endorsing him, McCain stood for change and now that McCain is running
against him for the Presidency , McCain does not stand for change. Well I will
say this if he should by any chance become the President of the US, well then
the voters deserve whatever they get in return because there has been series of
untruths coming out of his mouth during this campaign.

Alice Newman Center Harbor NH   January 5th, 2008 7:29 am ET

Mitt's the Man??? I don't think so!!

Remember that as he keeps "evolving" (in a party that does not believe in
evolution) that the man you elect in November, may NOT be the same man when
President.

once a flip-flopper - always a flip-flopper!

Nick in Atlanta   January 5th, 2008 7:27 am ET

If you ask me, Romney needs to fire his PR people. How could they not warn him, before he said McCain couldn't offer change, that he had personally stated in another speech that McCain represents change?!? Mr. Romney, would you care for some salt and pepper for that foot you're chewing on?

Sharon   January 5th, 2008 7:07 am ET

Both Mitt and McCain are colossal flip-floppers and while one of them may win the GOP nomination, I don't think either of them will be elected president.

PJ, Arizona   January 5th, 2008 4:55 am ET

I am sorry to see our country completely under the power of political parties. What happened to make thinking for ourselves such an insurmountable task? Do we really need the media to explain what anyone is saying? Why do we need sports announcers to tell us what just happened ? Learn the facts, know what can be accomplished, DO NOT BELIEVE ANYONE WHO SAYS HE OR SHE CAN MAKE ANY MAJOR CHANGES IMMEDIATELY, and vote with your brain, not your heart. We have a great country and need to use intelligence and understanding to keep it that way.

Matt W. Las Vegas NV   January 5th, 2008 4:52 am ET

to anybody who says that romney isnt a flip flopper, just watch his debate with ted kennedy from 94 then compare it to what he boasts of right now. Even as late as 2005 has he defended abortion. Listen I'm an independant and I'm not voting for change, I'm voting for anybody who can get this government rolling again. McCain is the only one with the foriegn policy experience to handle the crisis he will be inheriting. Hes not afraid to do what he thinks is best no matter what is party or the voters say. Sure he plays the political game, but he is more than willing to jump party lines if he thinks it is for the right reason. He didn't vote for tax cuts because his party DIDNT CUT SPENDING (also Romney was never in support of the tax cuts while he was gov.)! He never voted for amnesty, read his plan, at least he tried to deal with the problem. The only man who is ready to lead now is John McCain. Obama needs a touch more time in the big boy government, and Hilary is joke, almost the size of John Edwards.

Anonymous   January 5th, 2008 4:46 am ET

I am sorry to see our great country under the control of two political parties. What happened to rule by the people? In order to even begin to consider running for any office, one must have a huge Quote"WARCHEST" of money and the backing of a political party. When did thinking on our own become such a problem. Do we really need the sports replays and the after the debate rhetoric of the media? I agree CNN is adept at finding something to stir into the soup even if it does not add nutrition or value of any kind. Just watch their sports broadcasts and you very soon know who should win and how great that team is. Sorry, a little off base but that probably makes me a politician! We all need to vote with our brains. Be intelligent and really know what can and can not be changed. Anyone who promises to change ANYTHING over night is no qualified to lead this country.

Nancy, Sammamish, WA   January 5th, 2008 2:49 am ET

Mitt Romney changes his position on issues and on his core values like he changes his suits. How do you know which Mitt is real? Mike Huckabee is authentic. He has always been Conservative. He's for secure borders. He's for the Fair Tax. Huck doesn't have to take a poll to figure out what he believes.

Lee M, Egg Harbor NJ   January 5th, 2008 1:47 am ET

Of course Mitt is the candidate of real "change". - He changes his tune almost DAILY and just says whatever he thinks his voters want to hear that day depending on where he's running.

The big news out of Iowa was that voters in both parties want change, so today Mitt Romney has a speech and uses the word "change" over 20 times hoping that republican primary voters are stupid enough to believe that if he suddenly starts using this "change" theme today, that he really represents "change".

Next to Rudy 9ui11iani (9-11, in case you forgot), there is no more of a complete phony running than Mitt Romney. It's shameful, his father was a decent man and told the truth.

G   January 5th, 2008 1:39 am ET

BOB SEATTLE:
McCAIN/HICKABEE? MY WORST NIGHTMARE.
A WARHAWK AND A RELIGIOUS EXTREMIST.
A LOSER TICKET. THE LAST GASP FOR THE GOP.
RON PAUL WILL P.U,. HICKABEE'S VOTES.
WE NEED CHANGE, NOT BUSH CLONES.
SAVE THE GOP AND THE COUNTRY.
VOTE FOR RON PAUL.

Scott   January 5th, 2008 1:29 am ET

Chi-nese water torture = drip…drop

Rom-nese voter torture = flip…flip

Julie   January 5th, 2008 1:27 am ET

Would you give Mitt a break! If you actually listened to one of his speaches you would see how inteligent he is on all of the issues we are concerned about and he clearly has the best plan of attack for each of them. We need a problem solver like him in the White House!!!
As far as his Mormon faith is concerned there are a lot of ignorant people out there that obviously need to do their homework on the religion before casting judgement. You DON'T know what you're talking about. Give it a rest already. It is just ridiculous and so shallow minded - really very sad to be honest. MITT'S the best choice for the next President of the United States of America plain and simple.

Ci2Eye   January 5th, 2008 1:10 am ET

Many people are criticizing Romney and over and over I’m hearing he'll say or do anything to get elected and that he flip-flops on issues.

The trouble with those accusations is that seldom is there any evidence of actual flip-flopping cited. By definition, a flip-flop is to change one's position on an issue or to "flip" and then to change it back to the original position or "flop" back. I've looked at the guy's record and don't see a single time he's done that. On abortion, he did change his position once but he hasn’t flopped back to the old position and as science advances and we begin to be able to see inside the womb and develop a better understanding of what it is that is being aborted, many people either have or will change their position there and we should. The pictures we are getting from inside the womb don’t look like mere tissue but like a tiny human so his change there is a result of becoming more enlightened and having the good sense to adapt.

For those who say he'll say anything to get elected, I'd ask one simple question. Given that his religion has been a major hurdle for him in this campaign, wouldn't renouncing his Mormon faith be the most politically expedient thing for him to do? Overnight his poll numbers would surely soar and a win would likely be assured. Yet, Mitt won’t do that. Why do you think he won’t?

G   January 5th, 2008 1:08 am ET

ANYBODY WHO STILL SUPPORTS BUSH AND HIS POLICIES
IS OUT OF TOUCH. McCAIN HAS NO EXPERIENCE IN THE
PRIVATE SECTOR, SO IS OUT OF TOUCH WITH AMERICANS
WHO HAVE A REAL JOB. ALL McCAIN KNOWS IS WAR. IT'S
HIS SOLUTION TO EVERYTHING. OUT OF TOUCH. THE
AMERICAN VOTERS WANT OUT OF IRAQ. THIS MAN IS A
HAS BEEN. HE'S A LOSER AND THE VOTERS KNOW IT.
UNLESS THE GOP GETS BEHIND A CANDIDATE FOR
CHANGE, THEY ARE DOOMED TO LOSE THE WHITE HOUSE.
AFTER 10 YRS OF GOP RULE OF DEBT, DEATH AND
DESTRUCTION, WHO BELIEVES THAT THEY WILL CHANGE.
THE ONLY ONE THAT CAN SAVE THE REPUTATION OF
THE GOP IS RON PAUL. HE IS A CANDIDATE FOR CHANGE.
HE WANTS TO BE OUT OF IRAQ. HE HAS CONSISTENTLY
VOTED AGAINST BORROW AND SPEND. HE IS IN TOUCH
WITH THE FORCES FOR CHANGE AND CAN LEAD THE
COUNTRY TO FORMER GLORY.

Pedro   January 5th, 2008 1:06 am ET

You have to love how the Romney faithful defend the blatant lack of character as an attack on his faith.
Face it - we don't like him because of the phony that he is, not because of any religious preference. But keep slinging mud at McCain - he's been through a lot worse than any of you schmucks can dish out and his character is what keeps voters coming back.

Dale Davis, Glendora, California   January 5th, 2008 1:02 am ET

LET THE TRUTH BE KNOWN. THE IMAGE-MAKERS OF THE MEDIA ARE MANIPULATING ALL OF YOU WITH RECREATING A TEMPORARY PROPPING UP OF MC CAIN, IN ORDER TO GET YOU TO THINKING MITT IS SLIPPING. IF YOU DODOS FALL FOR THIS, THEN FINE. JUST REMEMBER THAT THIS IS FABRICATING A FRIENZY FOR A SURE LOSER IN MC CAIN. AS SOON AS MC CAIN WINS IN NEW HAMPSHIRE, THE PRESS WILL SMEAR HIM LATER ON, ONCE THE CLINTON MACHINE GETS GOING. YOU DUPES ARE FALLING FOR THE BAIT, WITH LESS FLATTERING IMAGES OF ROMNEY. IT IS A KNOWN FACT IN CLOSE CIRCLES THAT THE CLINTONS FEAR ROMNEY THE MOST.

Jake, Las Vegas, Nevada   January 5th, 2008 12:49 am ET

BKK has a point. Romney's millions are good for the economy. If Romney doesn't win the nomination this time he can kiss ever being president goodbye. The incumbent rarely loses. Even GW bush won reelection.

If the economy is really your biggest concern mitt is the man.

Go Mitt.

USAF CAPT   January 5th, 2008 12:05 am ET

Huckelberry has to constantly ask his aids what the names of the capitol cities in the middle east are, he has to be "advised" about who is where and what the "name of that one feller is" you know the head of state? Ahhhh and he is the potential nominee of the GOP? I have many neighbors who are dems and they are just laughing hysterically at the GOP right now, and all I can do is bow my head and say yup that Huck is in the lead of the GOP as his aids help him try to figure out who all them there fellers are leading those far off nations.

Please: MITT, McCain, or Juliani save the GOP before we become the laughing stock of the world with Huck as our leader!

John Hale   January 5th, 2008 12:00 am ET

Even if Mitt doesnt win the nomination this time around, I think America will be ready for him in 2012, after Hilary trys to ruin the best (But still has loads of problems) health care system in the world. If you Libs dont like your health care here, move to Canada where they have universal health care, maybe that will open your eyes.

liz   January 4th, 2008 11:58 pm ET

don't dress in dark colors mitt. not a good idea. if you know what i mean. i do think you can make a good pres.at the moment it looks like some kind of TV game.

Lisa Salt Lake City UT   January 4th, 2008 11:53 pm ET

NH's newspapers called him on it - he is a phony. He is willing to say anything to make the sale. I'm sure the people of New Hampshire are smart enough to see through him.

Butch Dillon   January 4th, 2008 11:51 pm ET

Now, Romney is hard at work in New Hampshire building his next crucifix. This guy is stupid beyond belief and it's got nothing to do with Mormonism. He's blind to his own political ineptitude. Romney has been subject to the pull of gravity for several weeks and it's only getting worse. He lies, he slings mud and he contradicts himself regularly. New Hampshire is the last stop for this clown, this is where he will retire the Mitt Mobile because as bad as it is for him in the laboratory states of Iowa and NH, it will be unmerciful beyond belief down south. Sayonara Mittmeister!

Don   January 4th, 2008 11:50 pm ET

As far as Romney's remarks regarding McCain's failure to represent change, it looks like Mr. McCain is trying his best to verify Romney's claim. Last night in New Hampshire, he declared to an audience, with pal Joe Lieberman present, that he (McCain) would be "ok" with the U.S. remaining in the Iraq war for 100 years. 100 years? That's not exactly what I would characterize as "change"…..at least, not for 100 years? I saw the video at:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vf7HYoh9YMM

Unbelievable that any homo sapien life form could make such a statement as that. I don't think Mr. McCain should be allowed to get close to the launch codes.

P.C.Barman   January 4th, 2008 11:47 pm ET

I guess I will not vote for Romney, why does he put his foot in mouth all the time.He should grow up and come back in 8 years. McCain has given his time in the service of the country and he has more integrity then Romney any time and any day.I will be honored to vote for McCain in the comming elections.

Jay Bee, USA   January 4th, 2008 11:39 pm ET

Romney has been using the word "Change" since early on. Check out his ad from October 15th. He is a change from Washington, Romney knows how to balance a budget - a vote for Romney is a vote for a balanced federal budget.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPWVDq0zI1w

Gil - California   January 4th, 2008 11:31 pm ET

Hey Mitt, those shoes must taste might fine for you to keep sticking them in your mouth.

Alan, Iowa   January 4th, 2008 11:25 pm ET

This entire conversation is moot all you republicans. Iowa had twice as many democrats turn out for their caucus, 235,000 to 114,000. Democratic control of the executive and legislative branches (you remember the ones that Cheney says he belongs to neither) wil be in the democrats control in '09.

Bettendorf, Iowa   January 4th, 2008 10:59 pm ET

5 years in politics is a long time.
I hate to say this but if you are going to bring up that you were a prisoner of war every possible chance you get and that happened over 30 years ago-but you're still living it—how much 'change' can you comprehend. I respect that the man went thru what he did-alot of men did the same thing—but to still be harping on it is wrong. There is medicine and therapy to help that and he is just an angry old man

S Benn   January 4th, 2008 10:56 pm ET

Fred Thompson is the man to be president. He is running a consistent campaign on his own record. The conservative sites are praising him today as though he had won the Iowa Caucus! He will lead us to victory. Watch him in the debates this weekend!

Val Davydov, Agawam, MA   January 4th, 2008 10:54 pm ET

stunnedsilence,

Excellent post. My thoughts exactly - thank you for putting them into words.

Mike, Fredericksburg, VA   January 4th, 2008 10:54 pm ET

All the comments about Romney losing Iowa because he is Mormon ignores something very important: Why should conservative Christians trust a guy, no matter what his religion, who has been pro-choice and pro-gay rights up until the time he needs the votes of evangelicals to get the nomination for president?

Publish THIS ONE if you *dare*   January 4th, 2008 10:40 pm ET

It sometimes appears as though the old KKK may still be alive and well in the good ‘ol South these days STILL…judging by all the bigotry going around.
Seeing Huckabee and his supporters(business partners-Huck doesn’t have to spend a dime like others, the televangelist network pays his way along with all the leftist media outlets/publications freebies…) attacking/slandering/slurring a candidate based solely upon their affiliation with a particular minority religious group (Mormon) as a means to win an election because the “Klan” can’t seem to win in any other way is truly sad.
After the “Khristian Krusading Klan” led by their Grand Wizard Wannabe, The High Huckabeast and his faithful pseudo-supremacist sidekick Jon-Boy McCane and their lethal lieutenant/enforcer/Chuckles igNorramus get the Republican nomination secured by “cross-burning that thar ‘evil’ Mormon right on out” of their Party (…just wait Jews, blacks, hispanics, catholics, hindus, asians, protestants, muslims, etcetera, YOU just might be next after these crusading bigots are done with the MORMON minority group that they are CURRENTLY focused on eliminating…)…
…THEN after they’ve had their way with the Mormons these same cross-burning/bearing, bigots/supremacists can concentrate on OBAMA after they’re done with Mitt Romney and his family…any bets there will be many allusions to OBAMA having “possible MUSLIM/ISLAM” connections??? Or church affiliation? Where he went to school??? His heritage??? How about his ETHNICITY??? ANY BETS AMERICA???
I truly hope that ALL AMERICANS left right and center, of ALL religions, colors, cultures, ethnicity can STAND TOGETHER and UNITE against this ugly racist/bigoted BEAST that has reared it’s grotesque head in OUR nation as of late.
This particular Beast was SUPPOSED to have been buried back in the 60’s/70’s during the civil rights movement (which the Romney family was influential in - hence the reason white-supremacist evangelicals hate them so much).
MY America is a nation which is supposed to represent EQUALITY AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL PEOPLE…not just white southern supremacist evangelicals.
Romney and his father, and his entire family have fought for and stood by OTHER minority groups throughout their lives.
Now it would be a wonderful miracle that could only happen in OUR country…AMERICA…if all those same minorities that the Romney family has stood by over the years and generations, could somehow find the courage, and somehow find it in their hearts to STAND BY THEM IN RETURN in this their time of need… as they are being attacked left, right, and center by these dishonest, HATRED FILLED BIGOTS. Please consider it America. Please.
I have but three candidates I care for as I have stated before. Obama, Romney, and Thompson. Any of the three would be good for ALL Americans (regardless of color/religion). I could vote Democrat or Republican and I WILL go for the candidate more so than the party as I have on occasion in the past.
The candidates that will win my vote will be those that stand for ALL Americans, not just ONE COLOR, or ONE RACE, or ONE RELIGION.
America let’s all stand together for one another and whether it’s Obama or Romney you want to lead…let’s show these hate-mongoring bigots that they can’t ever succeed in the type of class/Race/religious warfare that they are attempting to instigate amongst our society. They wish to divide America into special interest groups in order to control us all. Let us all unite as EQUALS and AMERICANS and show them what for!!!! May this message somehow find a way into your hearts…we could all use a little more PEACE and COMPASSION and KINDNESS in this world. Here’s to a UNITED AMERICA!!!

TS   January 4th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

YS, careful in your assumptions. I'm about as Democratic as you are politically savvy. I especially liked how you insulted my intelligence in a message rife with spellings and grammatical errors. I also liked how you used your own poorly-formed beliefs as the basis for what "all" evangelicals think.

Of the IA caucus goers who identified as evangelicals, the overwhelming majority supported Huckabee. Of the IA caucus goers who did not, the majority (though not overwhelming) sided with Romney. You can make any statements you like about how Christians will vote, but only I have facts and polling on my side.

You're also wrong about how the general vote will go. It's true that evangelicals won't vote for Clinton/Obama… but they won't vote for Romney either. They just won't vote, at all. Bush's political success were due in large part to massive voter turn-out among the Christian electorate. Do you really see them getting that excited about Romney? Are you capable of understanding that individuals have concerns that don't always mesh with either political party?

It's interesting that your entire presidential selection process is apparently based on "faith"– not the candidate's historical accomplishments. I can only hope that other evangelicals make informed decisions rather than just following whim and political party programming and labeling that "faith."

BTW: In case you haven't noticed, God doesn't appoint the President of the United States; the people do. That's why we're a democracy and not a theocracy. And the people do not like Romney. You can sputter all the denials you like, but again: I have facts and polling on my side.

Steve Blaine Washington   January 4th, 2008 9:56 pm ET

January 4, 2008 5:10 pm ET

Once again, nothing intelligent made against Romney without an attack of his faith. Every comment here that openly attacls religion, ANY RELIGION, is stripped of its credibility and only proves the needs for more education in this country!

What is it that everyone has against mormons. I guess it must be the millions spent in humanitarian aid that offends people. Or their peaceful nature. Or maybe the missionaries that have never harmed anyone. You know, I get offended when people gladley donate their income to benifit others!! As far as I see it, it is only peoples misunderstanding of mormon doctrine that offends people, but what do you care? Does it affect you? Are you afriad you're missing something? Because I am 100% positive you are! People fear that which they do not know.
—————————————————————————————-
Because one day the Baptists woke up and discovered that the Mormons had
converted 300,000 Baptists right under their noses. That is also why you find all the anti Mormon propaganda in Baptist Bookstores.

RH   January 4th, 2008 9:52 pm ET

How on earth can you post Patty from Atlanta's comment and not call for moderation, but do on mine? Does mine even get posted?

People have to be allowed to respond to that kind of comment.

There was no profanity or anything–why sensor me–when she writes hate speech?

Mike, Fredericksburg, VA   January 4th, 2008 9:46 pm ET

So Romney is now claiming that he is an agent of change? Wasn't it just last week that he was aligning himself with Bush administration policy when other Republican candidates were saying what they would do differently?

Allen   January 4th, 2008 9:45 pm ET

The guy made the comment 6 years ago!!! How many things you say now the same as they were 6 years ago.

McCain is just as guilty of flip flopping. Every politician is guilty of flip flopping. You're an idiot if you think otherwise.

Mike Allen   January 4th, 2008 9:32 pm ET

If all Mitt did was flip flop I could forgive him. But his ugly negative campaign style is what drives me away from him for keeps. I am not voting for McCain but the man is an honerable American war hero. Mitt is not fit to wash McCains socks.

Richard   January 4th, 2008 9:28 pm ET

I agree with Matt. I was a Ron Paul supporter but I think John McCain is ultimately the best candidate to beat the Democrats. McCain represents real progress and change, Ron Paul just claims to stand for such things.

Matt   January 4th, 2008 9:25 pm ET

To any Ron Paul supporter, your candidate is an idiot. He plans to bring every single American soldier in Japan, Germany, Bosina, South Korea and elsewhere around the world, home. What are these millions of troops going to do when Paul cuts down the military? He plans to turn all the navy ships around and return them to port. He wants to dismantle the IRS and dozens of other government funded organizations, firing tens of thousands of employees. With 5% unemployment, where are these fired workers going to go?

Ron Paul brings change alright, but it would certainly not be good for the security of the country.

Support John McCain and make your vote matter.

Allan Jones   January 4th, 2008 9:24 pm ET

GOTCHA! There goes CNN again, engaging in "gotcha" journalism. You mainstream media people ust don't get it do you? People's opinions change, and it's pointless to pretend that they don't. Leave Romney alone. He's a strong candidate with excellent qualifications to lead this country. He's got my vote and he should have yours.

Dan Petersen   January 4th, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Sorry to see all the critical comments on here about Mitt. The fact is, he is the best prepared presidential candidate this country's had in decades. He will do better in the upcoming states. Mike Huckabee playing the religion card in Iowa had a lot to do with what happened there. Hopefully other states will be more tolerant.

RH   January 4th, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I have no idea what happened to my normal post that pointed out I am one of many latter day saints (mormons to the ignorant) that do not want Romney to win this nomination, do not like how he operates, and are upset with the way he does not want religion to matter one week and the next week tries to take advantage of his membership in our church with playing the poor persecuted me game.

Why can't he just take consistent stands like other LDS political leaders, state his positions, and let the public make a judgement.

Ryan is definately right and Mittens is sinking himself……and McCain fills the void.

I decided a couple of months ago that I could not take any more of Mitt's crap until he straightens up. I formally gave my support to fellow academy grad John McCain and am certain he is the right choice to be our next President at this time. I do not agree with him about much of the war, but he will change it and fix it and eventually get us out of Iraq in a way that considers REALITY and not the dreamy clueless statements of the leaders of my Democratic Party…I'm for McCain.

stunnedsilence   January 4th, 2008 9:10 pm ET

You hear all the talk about the two Iowa winners signaling that voters want change. Well I do believe Mr Huckabee is ridng Mr Obama’s proverbial coatails on that premiss. Huckabee’s victory has nothing to do with voters wanting change. It had everything to do with an ex-evangelical pastor getting the evangelical vote against a Mormon opponent. When will the mainstream media finally come out and finally say what is obvious. The vote for Huckabee was not a vote for change, but a vote for intolerance. Huckabee’s numbers without the evangelical vote would have been in the low teen percentile at best. The entrance polls clearly indicate that. If he gets half the evangelical vote, which he might get given his Baptist pastor credentials, regardless of his glaring shortcomings as an actual republican conservative candidate, he still only gets perhaps in the low 20s percentile. If Romney is a Methodist, Lutheran, or Presbyterian, etc…, he doesn’t get fleeced out of his reasonable share of the evangelical bigot votes, and he beats Huckabee handily. It’s fair to speculate that if Romney wasn’t Mormon, that Huckabee might not even be a factor in Iowa. He would have been regarded as another Pat Robertson to the evangelical block. So please mainstream media, stop insulting everyone’s intellegence by saying a vote for Huckabee was a vote for change. Time to say what everyone knows, but is ashamed to admit we want Huckabee to knock out Romney so our Liberal candidate can win easily, and if it means we look the other way when the we let the evangekicals take care of our agenda for us, oh well we get the best republican candidate out of the way. Some of us have our own no Mormon for predident skeletons in the closet too. Everyone knows it, just let it out, and real “change”,may come by way of exposing the bigotry right under everyone's noses. It will help us enjoy the fact that we are only possibly getting past one bigotry by pehaps nominating an african american, but ignoring a good man being discriminated against because of his religion. Wouldn't that be a pathetic way to celebrate our new found tolerance, by silently accepting another.

RH   January 4th, 2008 9:08 pm ET

Ok, my comment is awaiting moderation.

I guess I will just have to summarize it.

Believing that mormons are witches is the mark of an idiot. Teaching that idea is the mark of the Taliban wing of the rest of american christianity.

Christine Grace, Overland Park Kansas   January 4th, 2008 9:04 pm ET

McCain is the only guy I have any respect for on the Republican side. the man had the guts to stand by his position regarding immigration - imagine what romney would have done if he was in the same position. mccain served our country heroically (unlike Mitt) and i feel he has the integrity that romney severely lacks.

RH   January 4th, 2008 9:03 pm ET

Witches Patty?

I am sorry to have to break this to you, but you are an idiot!

Bigot or prejudiced and all is just too nice. Whoever you buy that trash from is a liar and you are an idiot to believe it.

I felt like you needed a little tough love so you don't end up like that crazy Warnecke follower that drowned her kids.

Don't believe stupid teachings by paid hate teachers!

Vic, Las Vegas, Nevada   January 4th, 2008 8:41 pm ET

Mitt Romney is the biggest phoney EVER!

He tounts his business accomplishments with respect to the Olympics…it's a bunch of hype.

In preperation for the Olympics, Romney made sure lucrative contracts went to Mormon contractors. NON- Mormons were completly overlooked and didn't have a prayers chance in hell of securing prep work for the event.

Take a look at where he stays while campaigning…good ol Mormon Marriots. What airline does he fly…good ol Mormon Jet Blue.

If this guy gets elected, we won't have no bid contracts going to Halliburton, or Blackwater, they'll be going to Mormon businesses and organizations.

Mormonism is a cult, folks…a cult!

FleetingThoughts, America   January 4th, 2008 8:34 pm ET

McCain supported Romney when he ran for Governor calling him, "Honest and a role model for the young people of this country".
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QA7JTDjG-Po

Bill, California   January 4th, 2008 8:07 pm ET

This guy is redefining brazen. Does he really think America is so stupid that he can continue this nonsense? Today he says, "we're THRILLED with our silver medal."

Mitt, you were a terrific businessman. You're shredding all respect any of us had for you at one time. Even die-hard Republican business guys can't stomach what you're cooking.

And it has nothing to do with your Mormonism. It has to do with leadership, which requires integrity.

Dave-o, Honolulu HI   January 4th, 2008 8:07 pm ET

To have old Mitt "I'll change my politicis to suit the audience I happen to be lying to this week" Romney continue to flip-flop is just an indicator of the sliminess this guy represents. He's so slippery he leave an oil slick where ever he goes.

Chris Jordan   January 4th, 2008 8:06 pm ET

McCain is the only viable moderate candidate in the republican party. mitt is way too SLICK. When I look at McCain I see a real true sense of integrity and honor. If Hukabee is the nomination, no right minded, moderate, independent, or mainstream common sense american will vote for him. Get someone who has a broad national appeal. Go John McCain

Scott   January 4th, 2008 8:06 pm ET

Traditional Chi-nese water torture = drip…drop

2008 Rom-nese water torture = flip…flop

Allison   January 4th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

"Oh yeah? Well, you said …. " "Did not, you once said…." Come on America. This is juvenile. Do YOU remember every word you've said? Have you ever recanted? I think we all have. Our media televises the minutia of politicians and celebrities and we all watch it??? This should be about career experience and character. I like Mitt's track record. I've seen what he can do. Don't discount him on religion because chances are you don't know much about it. Ignorant prejudice could deny us all a president who can represent our country with dignity, values and management experience. Don't forget the media's fascination with slamming just about everybody. Be your own wise judge.

Tejano Tater   January 4th, 2008 7:52 pm ET

It appears as though the KKK is alive and well in America these days judging by all the bigotry. Attacking/slandering/slurring a candidate based solely upon their affiliation with a particular minority religious group as a means to win an election because the Klan can't seem to win any other way is truly sad.

After the "Khristian Krusading Klan" led by their Grand Wizard Huckabeast and his faithful supremacist sidekick Jon-Boy McCane and their lieutenant/enforcer Chuckles -igNorris get the Republican nomination secured by "cross burning that evil Mormon out" of the Party (just wait Jews, blacks, hispanics, catholics, hindus, asians, protestants, muslims, etcetera, YOUR next after these bigots are done with the Mormon minority group)…THEN these same bigots/supremacists can concentrate on OBAMA…any bets there will be many allusions to "possible MUSLIM" connections??? Or HIS church affiliation? How about his ETHNICITY??? ANY BETS AMERICA??? I truly hope that ALL AMERICANS left right and center, of ALL religions, colors, cultures, ethnicity can STAND TOGETHER FOR EACH OTHER and UNITE against this ugly racist/bigoted BEAST that has reared it's grotesque head in OUR nation. A nation which is supposed to represent EQUALITY AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL PEOPLE…not just white supremacist evangelicals. Romney and his father, and his entire family have fought for and stood by OTHER minotiry groups throughout their lives. Now it would be a wonderful miracle that could only happen in OUR country…AMERICA…if all those minorities the Romneys have stood by could somehow find the courage, and find it in their hearts to STAND BY THEM IN RETURN in this their time of need as they are being attacked left, right, and center by HATRED FILLED BIGOTS. Please consider it America. Please. I have but three candidates I care for as I have stated before. Obama, Romney, and Thompson. Any of the three would be good for Americans (regardless of color/religion). I could Democrat or Republican and I will go for the candidate moreso than the party as I have in the past. The candidates that will win my vote will be those that stand for ALL Americans, not just ONE COLOR, or ONE RACE, or ONE RELIGION. America let's all stand together for one another and whether it's Obama or Romney…let's show these hate-mongoring bigots that they can't ever succeed in the type of class warfare that they are attempting to instigate amongst our society. The wish to divide America into special interest groups in order to control us all. Let us all unite as EQUALS and AMERICANS and show them what for!!!! May this message somehow find a way into your hearts…we could all use a little more PEACE and COMPASSION and KINDNESS in this world. Here's to a UNITED AMERICA!!!

pam Eugene OR   January 4th, 2008 7:39 pm ET

I am a registered Democrat so you can take this with a grain of salt.
The more this man is attacked the harder I look at him. Why is there so much hatred for him. He seems OK to me and if he wasn't so pro life I would might consider him. He seems like a decant man who wants what is best for America. Most of the posters here are the reason the country will be so difficult to heal. I guess Romney is your version of our Hillary. The one everyone hates.

Daniel, WA   January 4th, 2008 7:37 pm ET

NO WITCHES IN THE WHITEHOUSE. GOD BLESS AMERICA!! JESUS KNOWS A SINNER.

Patty…it is comments like this that worry me. What if a Jewish president made it into the white house, would he or she be the devil then? Does that make sense…? This shouldn't be the issue anyway, but of course many will make it that.

And for all the people commenting on how your religion can't be important to you but not negatively affect one's candidacy, think about it. Romney is letting America know that religion is a big part of his life, but that he realizes it's role in governing America. He follows principles which can be found in all kinds of religions.

As for flip flopping. It is not like last week Mitt said, I support this, but now let me support this in New Hampshire….The man learns & adapts to try and get the best results. Why don't people actually look at McCain's history, you will see that he was for change…and nothing really happened. Mitt's comments make more sense.

Mitt's negative campaigning. Stop reading CNN headlines people, have you seen the ads? He is pointing out facts. One reason you know that is to see how others "retaliate". They don't try and defend the apparent weaknesses, they attack Mitt for "negative campaigning". Think about it.

People also need to stop knocking all his money. Guess where he got it? Because he is brilliant at everything he does and works extremely hard. This man's vacations are not really vacations. (Read about his history, really dig). So he wants to run, what do you expect with his money? (Anyone who thinks he just throws money around…you should find out what he is really like). For example: Leaving the lights on at home….hates it.

Bottom line, stop focusing on all this crap and look at people's past experience, REALLY look at it and see who has no corruption & a VERY STRONG record of success for 20+ years…..ROMNEY. Do you want to change America, be smart and do your homework.

Walt, Belton, TX   January 4th, 2008 7:36 pm ET

Jeremiah, Phoenix AZ,
Have had many experiences with our mormon brethren and wouldn't trust one with my wallet or daughter again. Yeah, I'm still bitter.

Wilko   January 4th, 2008 7:36 pm ET

McCain: War Hero, his sons haves served in the marines.
Romney: 6 sons - none in the service. Just be nice and maybe (I hope not) McCain will chose you as a running mate.

YS, Fullerton, CA   January 4th, 2008 7:33 pm ET

TS, how a miserable person you are! You are a Democrat and you don't know anything about Evangelical Christians. Do you think the Evangelical Christians are as dumb as you? Absolutely wrong! You are not even as smart as a dumb donkey.

Regardless of what Mr. Romney's faith is, Evangelical Christians will vote for him instead of the Democrat nominee. Don't ever hope Evangelical Christians will ever vote for Democrat nominee. It will never happen. The ideology is just too far away different, live heaven and earth.

Losing in IA doesn't mean that Mr. Romney will lose the nomination. I just hope that Mr. Romney will serve no group (such as his mormon group) when he becomes the President of the United States. He ever mentioned about this so many times and I do believe in his integrity.

Mr. Huckabee has betrayed his own party rules. If he can betray his own party, he can betray us too. There is no such loyalty that I can see in Mr. Huckabee. I can't judge when he became the Baptist preacher, it was for political purpose or because he really loves God. My tendency is the former: political purpose.

I can put my faith in Mr. Huckabee because not only he is so childish (by saying will knock Mr. Romney's teeth out), but also his integrity is questionable.

May God annoint Mr. Romney or Mr. McCain to be the next President of the United States so that His name can be glorified and exalted in this blessed land.

Walt, Belton, TX   January 4th, 2008 7:32 pm ET

If Romney were to win, God forbid, and ran against Hillary, God forbid, which one would do the most flip-flops? They could start now and not be done by election day…………………

Dem from MI   January 4th, 2008 7:23 pm ET

Rafi, NY NY January 4, 2008 4:15 pm ET

"Okay, I like McCain way better than Romney, AND I don't doubt Romney's just saying whatever he thinks it takes to get elected. But to be honest, the McCain of 2002 is a different person than the McCain of 2008. In 2002, McCain *was* more about change, and abuot standing up to Bush's absurd schemes. Today, McCain has aligned himself a little too much with the current administration.

Romney's comments weren't necessarily contradictory because McCain did use to be more about change than he is now. But… it would've sounded better coming from almost anyone else though, considering Romney's habit of pandering and the fact he's STILL closer aligned with Bush than McCain is."
*****************************************
Rafi:

I couldn't write it any better than you. Even as a Democrat, I have to stand up for Romney on this issue. How many people remember what they said 6 years ago, much less 6 days ago? Also, you are absolutely right, McCain is a much different politician today than he was 6 years ago. In 2002 McCain and the current President disagreed on many issues. Today, McCain has aligned himself with Lieberman (then a Dem) and is in agreement with Bush on most issues. A LOT HAS CHANGED.

Albert Gonzales   January 4th, 2008 7:20 pm ET

Senator McCain just might BEAT Romney in New Hampshire ! Romney save the negative ads for Super Tuesday!! You will need a lot of help that day!!!

Romney needs ALL the endorsements he can muster even from one percent Tancredo!!! Tancredo drops out and endorses Romney with his one percent following! But Iowa Rep. Steve King has endorsed Thompson. Iowa Rep. Steve King who was backing Tancredo does not even follow his endorsement. Romney must be in dire shape to need the Tancredo endorsement. God save the GOP nomination.

Robert New York City & Miami, Florida   January 4th, 2008 7:20 pm ET

FLIP FLOP MAN!

JM   January 4th, 2008 7:08 pm ET

I hope Mitt spends another 30 million of his own $$$. He and his "perfect family" can hang up any thoughts of prancing around on the White House lawn. Now he is the candidate of "change" because it worked for Obama. Anybody but Mitt!!!

Lisa   January 4th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

oops, he did it again. Just like Britney! Old habits die hard.

Student in Pullman, WA   January 4th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

People seem to forget how canned all of the responses from Huckabee and Romney really are. Fred Thompson? Forget about him too. Can anyone here actually say that McCain isn't right for he Republican bid? It has got to be between him and Ron Paul. Get everyone else out of there.

Justin   January 4th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

Of all the candidates, Romney is more suited that Huckabee, McCain, or Rudy. 1) He isn't shady, he actually knows where Islamabad is, is actually concerned about the change that is relavent now, and he doesn't "preach" his topics. Though he has had some set backs due to certain things that he has said.. hasn't others done that.. including George Dubya? Frankly, Mormon or not, Mitt is a Republican's only real choice. You want someone who will actually know what he's talking about with regards to foreign and domestic affairs and seek change.

Leave out '04 and '00 because obviously that was a bigger set back.

Sean   January 4th, 2008 6:31 pm ET

These are like little kids bickering… how about fixing George Bush's mistakes?

Ms. Angela M. Wakeman-Freilino   January 4th, 2008 6:20 pm ET

Any candidate who changes their image to "fit" within the public spectrum does needs to re-think what image they are actually creating.

This time is certainly a pressing frame …

Authentic, real individuals, who respect family values, and most imprtantly, the equality between men & women certainly deserves an applaud.

There are authentic and valuable men and women out there, this should not be a battle between the sexes …. it's about intrinsic authenticity –

Sincerely,
Ms. Angela M. Wakeman-Freilino

It's time to get things in order, not to split groups in half —

Equality Today

JGonzo2   January 4th, 2008 6:11 pm ET

Mitt will do or say anything to get elected. He's a "plastic" candidate that lacks integrity and is dishonest. John McCain is, by far, a man of integrity and conservative values. I don't always agree with him but I honor his integrity.

If the Republicans want to lose the White House then bring on Mitt! He's a rich, plastic man trying to buy the election with money and words. Where does he stand? Answer: Wherever the wind blows. No integrity, no values, no honesty means no White House for you.

bill, East Ridge Tennessee   January 4th, 2008 6:01 pm ET

Flip flop, flip flop flip flop.

Dave, California   January 4th, 2008 5:59 pm ET

CNN, your bias is showing! Onve again turning something Romney said into something he didn't say. But then again, I don't expect much more.

The differnece between the 2002 comment, and the 2006 comment is just that, 6 years! In 2002 we were still recooperating from 9/11 and the cries of the American people were for justice. Our economy was in a much better state (real estate was entering its boom) and our governmental focus was purely on Afghanistan and terrorism. America loved McCain because he was gonna beat the terrorists. Well times have changed. Whats the political climate now? Our economy is a few more interest rate cuts from a recession, people are losing their homes left and right, America is screaming we leave those poor terrorists alone, and while our back was turned (to afghanistan) somehow millions of illegals hopped the border! 2002 McCain was a leader for the people of 2002. Things are different now.

TS   January 4th, 2008 5:49 pm ET

I have nothing against Mormons. I'm just enjoying watching the GOP reap what it has sown.

Bush won 2004 and (to a lesser extent) 2000 by claiming that religion matters, and specifically evangelical Christianity matters. It doesn't matter what a person actually does; all that matters is that he accept Jesus as his personal Savior. Evangelicals– who are generally NOT pro-business– ate this up and voted for Bush despite his entirely corporate agenda. And once in office, Bush more or less ignored them. And now they're pissed.

So now we have Romney, the next candidate of the pro-business wing that controls the Republican party. Only he's a Mormon, who (btw) evangelicals see as essentially the same as scientologists. After eight years of saying religion matters, the GOP is now saying that religion doesn't matter. It doesn't take a college degree to see the hypocrisy.

And shame on Romney for trying to have his cake and eat it too. Kennedy famously said that his religion doesn't matter, and that candidates shouldn't consider it in making their voting decision. Romney tried to say that the fact that he believes in Jesus (in the Mormon way) matters, but not anything else. Sorry Romney; either your faith is important or it isn't. You can't have it both ways.

Romney WILL NOT WIN. The GOP invited religion into politics, and has discovered that it has a houseguest that refuses to leave.

In the words of Nelson: "Ha- HA!"

Patty Atlanta GA   January 4th, 2008 5:45 pm ET

NO WITCHES IN THE WHITEHOUSE. GOD BLESS AMERICA!! JESUS KNOWS A SINNER.

Mike, Austin, TX   January 4th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

I don't think these words "haunt" Romney at all. McCain has changed in my mind over the past few years.

There was a time when he stood for change in the Republican party… but, since then he has made some bad decisions (not voting for tax cuts, immigration, campaign finance reform).

That's what I hate about all this political mess…. and it happens on both sides of the aisle…. people assume that a comment made years ago still holds true today. Life is about change and people need to adapt to survive. It's not being two-faced, it's called learning.

Of course, I don't think the whole issue is even newsworthy… but, there you go CNN.

andrew   January 4th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

The true test of man's character is whether he stands by his friends when they are in trouble. Romney failed that test with Senator Larry Craig. Without even having the respect to call Craig in person to get his side of the story, Romney publicly blasted Craig and dropped him from his campaign. How Romney treated Craig tells us much about his character- Romney is no gentlemen and thus not one to be trusted with the fate of this country.

Lev Klinemann, Redondo Beach CA   January 4th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

you cannot put lipstick on a pig MITT!!!

Mindy Chatsworth, California   January 4th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

To Wayne Greenville, Tx -

Yay!!! You answered our friend Stacey so well that I didn't feel I needed to follow it up. How true it is. The voters will see through Romney for the phony hypocrite that he is. I don't even like his hair!

So you were helping your mom distribute flyers for JFK in 1960. Wasn't that a time! I was a young 10 year old girl who was inspired by him and ended up campaigning for Bobby in 1968. Unfortunately, we have not seen their like since then. But you are so right that we don't have to worry this time, because come January, 2009 we will have a Democratic president inaugurated.

Thanks to a fellow Democrat for telling it like it is!

av3   January 4th, 2008 5:35 pm ET

Romney is a POLITICIAN and that is scary. This guy will do anything to get elected including, but not limited to:

a)Spending millions of dollars(sorry, mate, but money can't buy you love from the voters)

b)changing pretty much every stance he has ever had on people (ie mccain) and issues (ie abortion)

c)LYING. how many times has this guy said one thing and two weeks later either "clarify", "disclaim", or "adjust" his previous statement (ie MLK)

d)having his closest aid pose as a police officer TWICE to get the media off his trail (look it up, it's legit. Romney of course claims he had no idea what his CLOSEST PERSONAL AID was up to)

e)running character attack ads on other candidates (you seriously need to look in the mirror bud) an age old political scheme that is finally beginning to be frowned upon.

we dont need another politician for president

Christine D   January 4th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

To Jay about Romney commanding successful results:

Mitt didn't do a great job here in Massachusetts after running on a platform of creating jobs in the state. The state was losing jobs for almost Romney's entire term until halfway through 2006 (or 3 1/2 years after he was sworn in) when he picked up his first job created as governor. You should be able to google 'June ends job deficit for Romney' and find the article. What kind of economic success is that from the Governor?

Then there was his 2004 effort to get more Repbulicans elected to the legislature which belly flopped when seats were actually lost. Today the number Republican Reps in the state is at its lowest level in over a hundred years.

Now on Romneys statement about McCain, maybe he should just talk more about himself and what he hopes to accomplish as President rather than making negative comments about others. Negative comments that contradict his own past statements just makes it look even worse.

Scambino   January 4th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

All you repubs out there, evaluate each candidates records objectively. Mitt is the true champion of change. America needs Romney. Romney all the way.

mac   January 4th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

the rest of the republican candidates have to be dead before romney gets the nomination

Richard, Ewing, NJ   January 4th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

Dave, California

No one is against Romney because of his religion. You may want to pretend to be a victim and ask for affirmative action, but like race, religion is not the issue. Romney most likely will be defeated by John McCain in New Hampshire. New Hampshire is very independent and secular state, maybe you can blame the christain right for that lost too. By the way, I am an atheist and I loth Romney., maybe you can explain that.

Linette, Lexington MA   January 4th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

CNN and TIME: enough of your ever-present anti-Romney mantra. Enough already. Lets have a positive fight for the presidency, from you the media. If you look at the TIME website, it looks like a Huckabee love fest. Is someone over there married to one of his relatives? Or is someone over there actually one of his relatives?

Josh   January 4th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

Romney could teach John Kerry about flip flopping…if he had a D next to his name even the Republicans would see that.
Is he anti-abortion? Who knows…he says he's not now.
Is he against homosexual marriage? Who knows…he says he's against it now.
Does he think McCain "Is Washington" or "Stands for reform and change?" Who knows…he says he's not a candidate of change now.

What will he say when an election isn't on the line? Who knows?

I'd argue the McCain comment shows his true colors…when he needs a position to appear to be the best candidate…he takes that position.

Maybe all the Mitt fans should check out the Democratic candidates, so they can see what integrity in a politician looks like.

Richard, Ewing, NJ   January 4th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

Mitt has great imagination. He doubt the military surge before he is certain of the surge. He was for pro-choice before he is against pro-choice. He was pro-gun control, before he is against it. He saw his father matched with MLK before he did not. He supported the senate immigratation bill before he is against it. He was an independent who did not want to be Reagan/Bush before he is for it. He was a hunter, before he is not a hunter. He had a plan to win early states before he is going to lose them all. He was unwilling to talk about his religion before he decided to give a speech on it (when his poll number dropped). He always do everything for the poll not for principle. I would have been much respect for him, had he been a pro-life and decided to declare himself as a pro-choice during the primary. That I will believe is out of conviction.

Tim Howe   January 4th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

Mitt must have been busy reminiscing about those days spent marching with Martin Luther King, and his past statements about McCain just slipped his mind.

Dave, California   January 4th, 2008 5:10 pm ET

Once again, nothing intelligent made against Romney without an attack of his faith. Every comment here that openly attacls religion, ANY RELIGION, is stripped of its credibility and only proves the needs for more education in this country!

What is it that everyone has against mormons. I guess it must be the millions spent in humanitarian aid that offends people. Or their peaceful nature. Or maybe the missionaries that have never harmed anyone. You know, I get offended when people gladley donate their income to benifit others!! As far as I see it, it is only peoples misunderstanding of mormon doctrine that offends people, but what do you care? Does it affect you? Are you afriad you're missing something? Because I am 100% positive you are! People fear that which they do not know.

David ~ Austin, Texas   January 4th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Romney appears to be the candidate of "change" only if you consider how often he "changes" his opinion and stance on the issues. Now if a candidate changes their stance because of a new development or new information, bravo (only a fool does otherwise). However, Mitt Romney appears to change his stance more often for political convenience, than for any new revelation. I’m also amazed at how many of the Romney backers who go after anyone who dares to mention that he’s Mormon (although I don’t think insulting someone on the basis of their religion is acceptable), but are strangely silent when other’s (including many Romney fans I suspect) who t