CNN

Roy:

Had I not known that you are a Mormon who doesn't like to keep your faith private, I would have taken your kind words about Romney more seriously.

Religion and politics just doesn't mix. That's where the conversations stop.
I respect your religion and please respect my freedom from your religion.
I liked Romney for his standing on issues and good management up to when you started to speak for him as a Mormon. Now I have to think again, although I know some Mormons are actually against him.

We must keep our country secular for us to stay united as a nation.
This may seem illogical to you, but this makes sense to me.
Good luck to your candidate!

VJH – having a library is one thing, learning from it is another, living it is the hardest thing of all......

As for the religion-bashers....time to actually 'live' your religion.
LDS members are wonderful Christians. We can show you references in the Old and New Testaments where our faith is right in line with early Christian teachings. The Book of Mormon is another testament of Christ.......remember the "other sheep I have which are not of this fold" message? If you believe in Jesus Christ, then surely you believe all his words and promises?

Go Mitt – the best GOP hope we have out there.
Romney is competent, a proven leader, innovative, and will bring change
to Washington. Anyone who has been as successful as he has been
will be respected from the get-go when trying to clean-up, take-out,
buckle-down, downsize, etc. all the EXCESS baggage that DC
is hoarding.

VJH

God has given me peace. May he give you charity and common sense.

For those who have a problem with candidates that point out the differences they have with other candidates on the issues... how do you choose between the candidates?

I thought it was very telling when Romney confronted Huckabee on his tax record in Arkansas that Huckabee had been misrepresenting. Romney, in reality, opened the door for Huckabee to rebutt what Romney was claiming... and he didn't. Romney exposed Huckabee by providing the truth.

It was also very telling when Romney confronted McCain on his stance on the Bush tax cuts and immigration. Romney gave McCain every opportunity to demonstrate that what Romney was saying was incorrect or misrepresentative of his positions. McCain did not. Romney exposed McCain by providing the truth.

If you want a candidate that is not willing to expose others for misrepresenting themselves then go ahead and vote for another candidate. If you want a candidate that will not be willing to aggressively expose the lies and misrepresentations of the democratic candidates in the November election, then vote for another candidate. If you want to continue to believe that it is more important to feel comfortable and deceived then vote for another candidate.

The last republican debate was VERY interesting. When McCain or Huckabee attempted to misrepresent Romney's record he successfully defended himself and demonstrated they were incorrect in their misrepresentations of his true record.

Anyone with a clear conscience and a brain can see, Romney is the man and the next President of the United States of America.

Jeff in TN

I would say Yes. Yes, they have money therefore contribute more to our economy, and they also speak english and understand our culture.

Now obviously this is a broad generalization, but the number of illegal candians who enter this country is vastly smaller than the southern border. Granted, the canadian government is a lot more efficient than the mexican.

Well, Mr. Dew...... once, again, let's by-pass the mind.

May God give you His Peace.

Everette:

McCain is as negative as it gets. Do you listen to him when he campaigns live? He is awful!

Romney's contrast ads were useful.

I really liked Mitt Romney until he focussed on negative campaigning. He should have focussed on his record and not on other candidates. Just listen to any focus group and they always say that his negative campaigning is a real turn off to many Republicans. I do not think that Romney can unify the Republicans with all the negative feelings he has left. I hope that McCain wins in New Hampshire tonight.

Roy

Your passion for Romney is appreciated. My two problems are this, 1) Since the You Tube debates, he has been attacking other candidates. If he would stand firm and point the facts you mention about his record, I would have more respect for him. On several occassions he has taken things out of context. I liked Romeny in the first debate months before the You Tube, but his personality I liked, changed. 2) None of the candidates stand out as a leader, passionate about America and it's citiznes, except for Paul.

I know they will all lie to try to be elected. As far as Romney, I liken it to ths. When people go to an interview, they prepare and have an idea of what questions will be asked. Most people try to give the answers an employer would want to hear, so they can get hired. What I hear from Mitt, more than any other candidate, is exactly this. He is saying what people want to hear. He is competely transparent. I don't care for Paul, but waht he says comes from his heart and waht he believes. He is passionate about his beliefs, though I may not agree with him.

Where is Ron Paul CNN?

Huckabee was on Leno, your handlers said "JUMP"!

Ron Paul was on Leno, your handlers said "stand down".

As a citizen of the USA I demand equal coverage of all of the cantidates from all media outlets!

Go RON PAUL!

MIKE
Only someome from Atlanta Geogia could possibly believe all that crap about Guiliani reducing crime in NYC. I was there and he did not do any of the things he takes credit for. The passage of the Ominbus Crime Bill and the leadership of Bratton, the Police Commissioner, resulted in the crime reduction. Guiliani had a hissy fit at Bratton's success and eventually arranged to have Bratton decide to "spend more time with his family". Do your homework Mike!

To all mormon bloggers on this site:

Perhaps it's time to just leave the ignorant in peace. They will say ignorant things, do ignorant things and be ignorant people. We know better. They can bash us all they want and what will we do? Just as Christ said and turn the other cheek. They have no desire to learn the true principals we have, so maybe it's time we stop pushing. Even our correcting their misled notions isn't working, so lets just move on and focus the fight on our individual candidate (whoever it may be). Yes, the field is white, but they are not ready to harvest, nor is this the true forum for such conversations!

And to everyone else:

How can insulting us, our faith and our principals help you in your guide to "save" us. You only prove to turn us off further. How about you focus yourselves to the issues as well and let us practice what, how, and where we want.

McCain is not a traitor Matt... Is time for a little understanding and compassion in regards to our immigration troubles. They are god’s creatures too. The Canadians are invading our border everyday and I do not hear anyone yelling about them. Is it because they have money?

Jack K.

If Romney pandered to everyone then no one would be complaining.

The liberal media in Massachusetts has Romney in their cross hairs because he didn't buckle under their pressure on liberal issues while Governor. They are painting him as a "flip flopper" because he wasn't... and they know he won't be going forward.

The only issue where Romney has changed his public position is Pro Choice to Pro Life. I can assure you that if he had gone from Pro Life to Pro Choice he would have been painted as becoming enlightened on the issue instead of being a "flip flopper" on the issue.

Ask yourself why a liberal media and a democrat would endorse McCain and not Romney if they thought they could manipulate Romney.

VJH

You are impying that Mormons cannot love God with all of their heart, soul, and mind? No one who knows a good member of the Mormon Church would seriously believe what you are implying.

When my Great Grandmother, a life long member of the Mormon Church, passed away at 91 years of age a local Pastor who had known her for more than 60 years stated that she was more Christ-like and loved God more than any other person he had ever met. I guess that makes him a liar.

You are bigoted and deceived beyond your own comprehension and you wear your ignorance on your sleeve.

Romney is NOT BUYING THE ELECTION!!! This is called presidential politics!!! Everything he has said towards Huckabee and McCain is supported by facts. His remarks don't attack the individual but rather exploit the individuals policy actions.

If you don't like the truth about what you're hearing regarding your candidate – vote for the other-

ROMNEY 2008!!!

I can't wait to see a Recent Harvard Grad debate an ex-Harvard Grad with 30+ experience debate!!! AHH THE beauty of experience

ROMNEY!!!

It sounds like McCain is paraniod from too many years in isolation.

To all who consider Mitt Romney a great political leader because he "fixed" Massachusetts finances allow me to elaborate how he did so.

1. Reduce spending on schools which resulted in limited or no school bus services in most towns (particularly the smaller towns)

2. Reduce services to the mentally ill which essentially removed mentally ill people (many of whom were Vietnam veterans) from state healthcare to the street. The end result being a large upsurge in violent drug related crime and a huge population of hemless living in what used to be the lovely Boston common

3. Increasing fees on virtually everything. He never increased "taxes" mind you as this is political suicide but if he could think of a user fee to add he did. Anyone who actually thinks about this realizes how stupid it is as I can deduct increased local and state taxes from my federal taxes but cannot deduct user fees. Very bright

Anyway, that is just one Republicans perspective from Mitt Romney's "home" state. If you like more fees, less services, more homeless, more crime and less education by all means vote Mitt

My vote for Rumani. He is positive and not arrogant like McCain.

Foreigner

Eric,

You are right. Romney is the only republican candidate that can beat Obama.

The democrats and the liberal media are the only ones saying the McCain can beat Obama.

Ask yourself this question... if you were a boxer and you had a choice to fight someone, who would you want to fight, someone you know you can beat or someone who you know could beat you or give you a close match?

The reason the democrats and liberal media want McCain to win is because that is who they want to run against in November... because they know they can beat him. They don't want a viable republican candidate to oppose. They don't want to run against Romney.

Read through the 65 comments posted. Around 15 people are for Mitt and about two for McCain and they were Dems who said they are really for Obama/Oprah.
Then there are more dems or anti conservatives who said they will not vote for either one. There is no doubt that McCain would get crushed by Obama/Oprah just like Bob Dole was crushed in 1996 as a senior senator war veteran. The media (abc, cbs, nbc, etc) are doing everything they can do to prop up the old war vet so the dems can win in 08.
Mitt and Rudy on the same ticket may have a chance to stop the dems. The Dems will ruin this country with higher taxes, illegal aliens and getting out of Iraq in 12 months or less while we are winning and the terrorist are beaten in Iraq.

Thank you, Mr. Dew for your concern. Let me give you a little of my background so that you will have a better understanding.

I have dear, dear Mormon friends. All ex-LDS missionaries...and we still remain good friends. I have received and read, " a Marveleous Work and a Wonder"; your BoM (3 times); your original BoM; D&C; Mormon Doctrine; "The Miracle of Forgiveness' ; "Truth Restored", Gospel Principles"; "Jesus: the Christ"; various LDS student manuals; "Studies of the Book of Mormon," etc.
Do you think that I've may have given your religion a fair shake? Feel free to throw out any of your teachings, and I'll let you know if I've read it. If you don't think I have just pull out a page number and I'll locate it for you.
would I connect with mormon.org or lds.org ? Why? Those websites are meant to mislead people into believing something other then their existing history and teachings. Lets not confuse people.
I'm sure you are sincere about what you believe, but facts are facts. Remember we are to love the Lord God with all our heart, soul and MIND.

Jose Card

You are wrong about McCain's funding. Look it up. The majority of McCain's funding for his nomination has come from Washington Lobbyists. He even acknowledges that fact. Why should it surprise anyone? McCain is a long term Washington insider.

You don't change things in Washington by accepting funding from lobbyists who at some point will call the favor in.

You are right, "A" students don't always do well in life. Are you saying that a man who has been married to the same woman for 30+ years, raised a good family, turned around numerous businesses that employ 1,000's of people, and turned a multi-billion dollar deficit in Massachussets into a surplus hasn't demonstrated his abilities?

Mitt Romney didn't accept a salary from the "voters money" as Governor of Massachusetts. Are you implying that he would have been a better Governor if he would have accepted their money?

The fact is that Mitt Romney has raised more funding from the "voters" than McCain has. Look it up... it is in the public records.

Bottom line is that none of your arguments are based on fact and they are not logical.

Everybody knows McCain can't beat Obama.
But Romney is the only guy who can beat Obama or Hilary.
I will vote for Romney.

Allie, SHUTUP! what do you know about anything that pertains the Mormon faith...I'm waiting...NOTHING you moron!

Cult, you belong to a devil worshiping cult that is why Romney scares you, you can't be around someone with convictions of his/her own faith. It makes you uncomfortable people have deep beliefs in God, Jesus Christ or whatever the belief is.

If you want to poision someones soul, do it to yourselve and SHUTUP!

Go Mitt!

McCain is a traitor. He may have been a hero many years ago, but he is now a coward. He is a liar. He tried to push through a massive amnesty bill that would have destroyed our country.

Truthfully, with respect to both–the only discerning characteristics to their agendas is the fact the Romney panders to everyone–and McCain panders to independent voters (fence sitters).

As an independent–I learned a long time ago that "voting for the best time, at the best time in history, is the best thing."

My vote for Reagan–was right on.
My vote for Clinton–was far better than 4 more years of Bushe–The elder.

My vote for Gore–was a good thing.

My vote for Edwards–stands to correct many government misconceptions and judgement errors related to economic theory–and necessary government regulation. And should redirect our focus as a market driven "society" –and a better standard bearer and benchmark for other nations in the global economy. He is the only candidate who has the agenda and passion to affect meaningful changes in the current Washington paradigm–restoring representation by ALL Americans at the negotiating table. No more secret meetings–no more closed doors to the public that put the public servants in place!

bj

Huckabee the most educated? Huckabee didn't even finish theology school. He dropped out.

Romney graduated with honors from Harvard with a juris doctorate in law and a Masters in Business Administration.

Huckabee is a shyster. He has made more misstatements on the issues than all of the other candidates combined. He has not even been able to provide credible answers to the issues during the debates. He constantly stammers and stumbles. The reason that the other candidates smirk when he tries to answer the questions is because they know he is clueless and a fraud. When Thompson called Huckabee to the carpet on Guatonimo Bay Huckabee was dumbfounded.

If Huckabee were really smart he would not make comments on subject matters that he doesn't understand. I can't think of anything more dangerous than having a person in a decision making position who "pretends" to know an issue. Huckabee would be a loose cannon in the White House.

A war veteran... A long time United States Senator... A long list of Bi-Partisan bills in the Senate.... I think these makes John McCain qualified above all the rest to reign in the change that Washington needs. He will tackle the pork barrell spending... No more bridges to no where.. Vote McCain... He is American's Clear Choice for Change!!!

Roy:

I appreciate your detailed analysis between McCain and Romney.
If McCain did rank 790 out of 795 at the Naval Academy, he may be a very independent thinker. As many know, 'A' students don't necessarily excel in life.
Bill Gates did not even finish college.

One problem I have with Romney is that he is not supported by the general public, while McCain collected every dollar from individuals in our country. I even like Romney's illegal immigration standing better than McCain's, but McCain has the conviction and character of a trustworthy president and he does listen to the American people enough for him not to vote for the Dream Act. Religion is not a problem for me. I would even vote for a Muslim if he or she is the best qualified and trustworthy candidate. But too much religion like Huckabee is not acceptable for the White House. In order to keep Americans united, we must stay secular.

Had Romney funded his own campaign with voters' money, I would feel more comfortable about him as our president.

Once a candidate is voted in, the voters pretty much lose control. You must be able to say to yourself that you can trust your candidate before you cast the vote.

VJH

I am a fifth generation of the Mormon Church and I would encourage anyone to read the Book of Mormon to find out what the Mormons really believe. There is no better way to find out about something than right from the source.

Another great resource for those interested is lds.org or mormon.org.

Let me ask a logical and obvious question, if you wanted someone to understand what you believed who would you want them to ask, someone who believed in the same things that you do or someone else?

Anyone who honestly wanted to understand what the Mormon faith teaches would get it straight from the Mormon Church... not from a third party with a questionable anti-religion agenda.

Hey, Allie,
Wake up, you are so narrow minded and so misinformed about the LDS church. I suggest that you go and investigate about the church yourself, don't just listen to what others tell you, you have a brain don't you, then use it. You sounded so hateful, you reminded me of those hateful and ignorant people that persecuted the mormons so badly in the 1800's.
Allie, don't make judgements about the LDS church being a cult without investigate it yourself. What you are doing is spreading lies and rumors around. Remember, bearing false witness is not acceptable in God's eyes.

Ignorance is a scary thing.

Negative about slick Mitt and his lacking character. I'll take that challenge. I've known LDS members who have an inner compass, and like members of any religion, I' ve met those who don't. Religion is definitely not Romney's problem. Romney's record shows that he relies on polls more than his own substance or principles. I'd rather a leader who will sometimes stand up to his party and be candid in elections as well as office.

Romney's attacks were misleading and created an artificial divide. He has admitted that deportation of all illegals is not feasible, and further admitted that McCain's plan was not amnesty despite the attack ad claims and talk radio rhetoric. Romney called the visa reform plan reasonable. That plan included substantial penalties, background checks, language requirements, and other measures. Once again, Romney and most other candidates recognize a need for comprehensive immigration reform beyond border control. McCain was the one who tried something instead of leaving a growing problem for later.

Romney's attacks also deceived on tax cuts. McCain's approach was fiscally responsible. He wanted tax cuts, but knew spending also needed limitation. Failing to cut both sides means a growing deficit and debt to be handled later and with more pain. McCain recognizes that we're in a bad position because China owns a lot of our debt. Romney is smart on the business side there, but seems to have little sense of the foreign policy considerations and potential security/human rights issues.

McCain is hardly one issue. He recognizes that we've left too many problems for later. The environment, health care, social security obligations, debt, education. He refused to bend on non-emergency subsidies because of the negative trade impacts and market bent. What did Romney pay and say to place higher in Iowa? It is easy to disagree with McCain on one or several issues, but at least he'll help to push DC past deadlock and divide. Others have misrepresented his foreign policy positions. I urge you to look at his longer explanations. Look beyond others polish, and beyond what are obvious jokes to certain audiences. He favors soft diplomacy and multilateralism, but once we're there, there are consequences of a hasty departure. He spoke of long term basing, but in terms of a mutual Japan scenario, not current violence and casualty rates. Engagement and agreements are necessary to ensure both fair trade and the kinds of human rights standards which will reduce worldwide violence. Negotiation by taking options off the table means immediate concession of our values and open market.

Character is a lot more important than a single issue or party line.

Looks like people missed something. I saw Romney Ads from Iowa and the new Hampshire deabte. All I can say is Romeny = Contradiction. The ads state the other candidates records, but the statements are false. It is aparent Romney is saying what needs to be said to get elected. I see no passion for change coming from him. He is a typical liar. i don't know who to vote for. Obama has no experience, McCain Would be a better, Sec. of State, Hillary = Status Quo, Huckabee is by far the most educated, but lacks experience, Paul makes sense on some things, but a Liberal Repub. has no chance, I do like Edwards, but the media has forced Hillary and Obama down our throats, and most voters unfortunately believe the media. I have spoken with New Yorkers and when I mention rudy they laugh, enough said. Another lose-lose year for elections which means another close race. A Huckabee/Edwards race would be nice, but probably has no chance.

I have an anti-establishment streak, so I've always been a fan of John McCain. I like him a lot. That said, I'd rather have someone with Mitt Romney's background as president. I like McCain where he's at – in the Senate. What this country needs is a turnaround – and that is Romney's specialty.

I think if we voted today, no one could beat Barack Obama. I'm even tempted to vote for him when I hear his speeches. They make me forget how much he differs from me on the basic role of government.

But this is a long road, and Obama has hardly been scrutinized at all. Eventually, the fervor will die down and people will start to look at his record and his experience. Depending on what that scrutiny yields, he could remain formidable or lose steam. The point is that it's way too early to assess who could beat him.

Until a few weeks ago, my least favorite candidate on the Republican side was Giuliani. But I've liked him in the debates. My new least favorite candidate is Mike Huckabee. Using Mitt Romney's religion as a weapon in Iowa was inexcusable. Under no circumstances will I cast a vote for Mike Huckabee.

This story is nothing more than a lame excuse to use the phrase 'perfect storm' in a sentence!

Whats wrong with some people here. So what if romney spent money on elections, atleast he spent what he made himself as a successful businessman.

He wouldnt have to do that, if the media was giving him coverage that he deserves. The media dint even wna talk abt him. The only reason his name started coming up in media is when people like hucabee attacked him.

Mitt Romney is a hugely successful proven business Leader, insider of US & Int’l financial markets, fairly successful Governor & a Political Leader, successful husband & father and a religious person; who stands shade taller than Mike. In the best interest of America Mike should put his ego aside and must accept Romney is better qualified to deal with present crisis and he can be a good team as Vice President with Mitt Romney. They can be a formidable team and will go down in the history as one of the best Team, American’s ever had.

Media is scared to discuss Romney’s all round fair achievements as compared to others in the field. Rather than discussing real Leader with a proven track record of hard work, experience, intelligence & character, under Semitism they are trashing him 24/7 for being a Mormon. As if elected he will force every one to convert to Mormon. This is the same Media who never raised any objections when a Mormon Democrat Harry Reid became Senate Majority Leader.

Vote Romey all the way

Huckabee is playing the spoiler that Ross Perot played historically. Huckabee cannot win, but he can steal enough votes from Romney to give McCain an edge. Huckabee is a country bumpkin who only appeals to people on the basis of religion. He is clueless on the issues, which has been clearly demonstrated by his numerous misstatements on the issues and by his inability to provide credible answers to the questions on the issues during the debates.

McCain is out of step on the issues of tax cuts and illegal immigration. McCain’s only platform is based on military and war. Every question that he is asked on the issues he relates back to the military or war. Even his perspective of saving/cutting taxes is nothing more than stopping the corruption in military spending. McCain is a one issue wonder.

McCain really believes he is running for Secretary of Defense, not President of the United States. If you would like a person whose whole perspective revolves around the military and war then McCain is your man and your candidate. Go vote for him.

If you want a candidate who has a strong grasp of the issues this country faces from a broad perspective and has demonstrated leadership in both the private and public sectors, then you need to seriously consider Mitt Romney. No other republican candidate has his skillset or ability.

There is nothing more contrasting between Romney and McCain than their educational backgrounds. McCain graduated from a military school, the Naval Academy, at the bottom of his class, number 790 out of 795. Romney graduated with honors from Harvard with a juris doctorate in law and a Masters in Business Administration.

Their educational backgrounds demonstrate the differences between them. One has a formal education in military and war. The other has a formal education in law, economics, and business.

Please don't let Romney buy the election!

No one has aything negative to say about Mitt Romney's record so they bring religion or name-calling to the table. How BORING and LAME!!!! Go Mitt!!!

here's one for you...

(Psalms 82:6) I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High.

do all christians believe this verse from the bible or only mormons?

I just finished reading, "When Salt lake City Calls" – 'Is there a conflict between Mormonism and the public trust?'

Not to influence anyone's think, but I would strongly suggest that Mormons and non-Mormons read it for what it is, so that, you will get a better idea of how much power and pressure and the Mormon Church uses.

Well documented with LDS materials that are available to checkout. Also, it is written by a ex- military and sixth generation Mormon.

McCain is a good man and a good Conservative in the Goldwater tradition. I hope he wins the nomination. He stands out in the rather unimpressive group of Republican candidates.

As for the Democrats, I will vote for their nominee. Eight more years of Conservatism will bankrupt the country. Those people never met a deficit they didn't like. I personally am beginning to wonder if the Conservative strategy isn't to bankrupt the federal government so as to finally do away with the hated Social Security and Medicare programs.

To Lori-
How dare you use the scriptures to bash me! Only I should be allowed to do that . . .
Seriously, to all of you so-called "Christians," stop with the hate. The Christ I believe in would never have done that. The only conclusion I can come up with, and which more and more Americans agree with, is that it is you people and your soldier funeral protesting brothers who are destroying this country. You are sowing the seeds of your own destruction.

Romney For President!
And Why you ask...?

Ok, the Democrats...

Hillary :
She talk's alot about experience, but...what experience? Being a shady lawyer in a backwater state with a closet full of skeletons. Or maybe being the first lady now qualifies one to be the most powerful person in the world? NOT!

Obama :
He's always talking about change, the reason? Because he is a junior senetor who has very little experience in anything except local issues. So...presto "Change". This will all wear off soon. We have 11 Months to go and his message will wear thin early in that time.

Edwards :
He's just too angry, probably because he's been doing this for a few go rounds now and it doesn't seem to be getting any better.

And the Republicans...

Huckabee :
Well gee wiz let me think of something. Christianity is his only message that resonates with anyone. So if that's your thing, he's your man. He's just not a candidate that can win...the nomination or the election.

Thompson :
Represents the current administration too much. You get the feeling he's getting his advice from Dick Cheney.

McCain :
He is a patriot, but thats sort of where it ends. Thanks for your service John! But It's just not gonna happen, whether you dilute the process by winning New Hampshire or not.

Ron Paul :
Great message. Getting back to the constitution, great. But many of his other ideas are just...out there. And he suffers an unelectable personality issue. Again, he's not going to win.

Giuliani :
Good man, was in the right place to handle the 9/11 crisis, but couldn't beat Hillary in a Senate race, why does he think he'll be President? Sorry Rudy.

So...Governor Romney. :
A guy who's a family man, finished at the top of his class, headed up an Olympics, has done great in business and knows how to run a government! None of the other candidates come close in terms of qualifications! Take a closer look for yourself and get behind the right person for the job!

...And here come the anti-mormons right on queue...It's amazing how history repeats itself. The same spurious arguments were used against JFK in his presidential bid. People said that the Pope would have the presidency if JFK won and that as a Catholic he was not Christian. Your idiotic arguments didn't make a difference then and they won't now, and if by some chance they do then that is a sad commentary on America. Try looking at the facts and you would see that despite his change of heart on key issues he is the only true conservative running. I support Mitt and pray that the anti-mormons get a life.

We got your back Mitt! Go get em'!

Deb
Doesn't Mike Huckabee do what his church tells him to do? Let's get off the religion bashing and focus on the candidates credentials. Based on what I've seen, Mitt is a man of integrity and will do what's right for this country. I'm voting for him.

I agree – the Mormonism does scare me a little bit - I read the bio on Joseph Smith - everyone should. But I investigated the Southern Baptist Preacher, the Huckster, and he's falling short on a lot of fronts. He's only other possible candidate since McCain is too old and one-dimensional and not really a conservative and illegal immigration stand is too soft. We can't have the perfect candidate, so if Mitt governed a state and didn't try to convert them all to Mormonism or do anything crazy, then I think the U.S. will be okay. He's the best and brightest in all areas. GO MITT!!!

Why are the media silent on McCain's votes for the Military Appropriations and Military Commissions Acts of 2006? McCain, a former POW, voted for torture and extraordinary rendition. He voted to deny American citizens the Constitutionally-guaranteed right to petition for a writ of habeas corpus. He voted to allow our government to do to its own citizens what a hostile and brutal foreign government did to him.

How McCain can cast himself as being for change, under such circumstances, is beyond me. And how he can call himself a conservative, given the massive and largely unaccounted for spending on the Iraq War, is downright baffling.

Wayne,

You talk about this almost being a destroyed country. Do you have a job? A safe home? Healthcare? You obviously have the luxury of a computer and the internet. I imagine you have enough food to keep you satisfied, and furnace to keep you warm, and you go to bed each noght nowing tomorrow will bring much of the same comforts and luxeries.

Now, you wanna talk about destroyed countries? Myanmmar, Kenya, Rhowanda, Darfur, Ethiopia (just to name a few). You are so arrogant to believe that our countries plight bares even the slightest resemblances to theirs?

I got it, we are in a war that is making less sense day by day, our president seems a little too out of touch with the american people, our congress is the worst/laziest group many of us have seen, and the value of our dollar is going down. Are we still better off then MOST of the WORLD?? YES!! So quit your whining and start appreciating the comforts our country offers us.

Deb

The apostle Paul uses that exact same analogy – milk before the meat....

Allie

You said "Romney is a member of a cult that's precepts are against Christianity. "

You didn't get that info from personal investigation. You are paraphrasing anti-Mormon literature. Real info comes from websites like lds.org or mormon.org

The LDS Christians' (Mormons') precepts are embedded in and circulate around Jesus Christ and his teachings. I know because I am an LDS Christian. I go to that church every Sunday and study the teachings from the church itself.

I see what Mitt meant about posting up to Obama. No amount of posting will help him from failure nationwide. He's too liberal for the evangelicals and too sleazy for everybody else. He practically guarantee's democratic victory. Put him up and watch him fail.

Allie

The founding fathers purposely worded the Constitution to bar the very faith based bigotry that you are spewing. Article VI prohibits excluding a person from holding political office on the basis of his/her religion. It sounds like you don't support the ideals of the Constitution.

If you believe that the Mormon faith is not Christian then you do not know anything about the faith other than what the anti-Mormon propagandists have told you... which is not very Christ like on their part.

Althought this is probably not the forum to do this, let me share a verse from the Book of Mormon:

"And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our cchildren may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins."

Which part of that verse is not Christian? Does that sound like Mormons don't believe in Jesus Christ? How do you define who is Christian and who is not?

Romney may be well-intentioned, but is not presidential material. Perhaps he's not be well-intentioned, he may believe in the prophecies of his church about our country.

Mitt claims his church leaders will not control him. He has not denied that he does what his god tells him to do, that his god directs his church leaders so in effect he does what his church tells him to do. It's just that his god tells his leaders what to tell him. It's in their doctrine. He does claim his god and his church are the god of the Bible and are Christian. That is one of the blantant lies he's told, most of his statements are blurry and misleading.

Romney will not discuss his church in-depth because you have to be given "the milk before the meat" when it comes to his beliefs or you'd run away from him. It's not possible to slowly spoon feed during an election, so he side-steps and gives us double-talk. His church teaches that people have to be slowly brought into their church, or "they couldn't stomach it".

"Some are so near spiritual death that they must be spoonfed on the broth of fellowship, or nourished carefully on activities and programs. As the scriptures say, they must have milk before meat." (Mormon Doctrines and Covenents 19:22.)

Romney is the only candidate that provides an ounce of hope for this country. He is truly an innovator. He has the financial acumen needed as well as the humility and wisdom to see outside advice from experts in each field to solve problems. He has done that in Massachusetts. He single handedly revolutionized healthcare in Massachusetts. All Massachusetts residents now have healthcare at minimal cost. Did that accomplishment get the praise it deserved? Of couse not – not here in Massachusetts. Massachusetts hates Romney because he was not afraid to cut – cut departments, employees, budgets that were not needed. Romney did not let the intimidation and scare tactics stop him. He does what needs to be done.

To Allie:

Isn't the church's name "The Church of Jesus Christ"?

I'm sorry but you've been misinformed.

(Perhaps by some of Huckabee's campaign...)

Hey Allie,
You can say what you will but lets put it this way, no one wants your bigotted, unamerican, bible thumping vote anyway. You showed your tue colors yesterday by refusing to relent on your COMPLETELY FALSE notion of religions in this country, and it's pretty clear, you are an awful, shameful, uneducated, insufferable bigot. But I guess thats ok for you, your god seems to approve. So, when are you gonna bomb a Mormon Temple, Mosque, or a Synagogue? Isn't that what your radicalism teaches you? Go to Iran, pakistan, Turkey, and Israel and see what your kind of hate breeds!

I am for equality and tolerance. You don't have to like my religion, skin color, national heritage or gender, but you must repsect it...thats what makes this country so great!

Allie January 8, 2008 11:33 am ET

Romney is a member of a cult that's precepts are against Christianity. Christianity is what America is founded on. As a republican, I could never vote for a Democrat, but if he gets the republican nomination I just won't vote.

America was NOT founded on Christianity – it was founded on the precepts of English Common Law, which predates the arrival of Christianity in the British Isles. You've fallen vctim to one of tha major lies being put forth by the Religious Right to advance their freedom-hating agenda.

FYI, please read the following:

The Government of the United States of America is not, in any sense founded on the Christian religion

by Jim Walker
Originated: 11 Apr. 1997
Additions: 26 Dec. 2004

Many Religious Right activists have attempted to rewrite history by asserting that the United States government derived from Christian foundations, that our Founding Fathers originally aimed for a Christian nation. This idea simply does not hold to the historical evidence.

Of course many Americans did practice Christianity, but so also did many believe in deistic philosophy. Indeed, most of our influential Founding Fathers, although they respected the rights of other religionists, held to deism and Freemasonry tenets rather than to Christianity.

http://www.nobeliefs.com/Tripoli.htm

I know everyone is for change. But to execute change for the better is an enormous task. Romney or McCain instead of Obama is better for America. Not enough experience in the Democratic nominees to lead this country at a most critical time.

There is no doubt that Romney has the strongest leadership background. None of the other candidates really compare at all. Romney's problem solving ability is very apparent during the debates. The ads he puts out are focused on the issues and the candidates track record, not personal at all. If the others can't take the heat now, just wait until one of them have to face Obama and the rest of the democrats.

I believe Mitt Romney is the only candidate that win against Obama. The reason is that change is what Obama is all about. Obama's weakness is in his experience; he has none. Romney's life has been devoted to building and strengthening big companies and corporations. And he has been very successful at it.

Romney has my vote for 08.

Romney is clearly an accomplished man. In my opinion, he is far more accomplished than any of the other candidates in either party and by virtue of his experience, among other factors, is uniquely equipped to guide our country into the future. His leadership has been clearly demonstrated and we can feel confident with him as our President economically, socially, and foreign policy-wise.

The real fun would be a brokered GOP convention. The corporat types in the news media would love this.

Barak is like to win, ironical using Reagan's technique. Problem will be the impact on the interantional arena. It will be like sending an 8-year-old to negotiate at a used-car lot.

Three new polls this morning have a tightening GOP race, with Romney leading one of the three and trailing by only one in Rasmussen's. Full roundup here.

I agree that McCain is a war hero – a cold war hero. Why that makes him qualified to lead America in the post-cold war age against Islamo-Fascism I have no idea. McCain is trying to fight Vietnam all over again. Rudy Giuliani (mayor during 9/11) is also a war hero – and he fought the war on his home turf. Only Giuliani can steer this country through the chaotic times ahead. Based on his performance in NYC, both before 9/11 (fighting crime) and afterward show that he will do whatever it takes to get the job done. Say what you will about his personal life or his stance on gays/abortion – Giuliani is a tough SOB and that's exactly what we need right now.

Giuliani 2008.

Bob.... Mormons can be Pro-choice. Thanks for repeating the same nonsense, though.

John McCain is the only true hero running for President. Having survived five years of torture in Vietnam with his character only strengthened, McCain emerged from the experience with wisdom instead of bitterness. There is simply no challenge that Senator McCain is not supremely prepared to respond to with exceptional perspective and leadership. The presidency is a calling for John McCain who sees the threat of Islamic terrorism with the same clarity and purpose with which Ronald Reagan viewed the Soviet empire.

About Romney, I can care less that this guy believes in a religion that I don't. He's the right man to lead our Country! He's proved himself to me now. He gets my vote as of yesterday after seeing him at the FoxNews Debate and McCain lost mine. I was shocked to see McCain that way.

Steve O'Rourke,

I don't know if you're being serious, but honestly, if you actually support Ron Paul, which I doubt, then stop talking about Zionism. Ron Paul wants to end all foreign aid, which includes Israel and many Arab/Muslim countries. If Zionists controlled Washington they why would the rest of the Arab/Muslim world be receiving more aid then Israel does? Surely the "Zionists" (and I am going to give you the benefit of the doubt here and not assume you simply mean Jews ) would prevent any American help of their enemies in the Middle East.

The fact that some white supremacists and anti-Semites happen to support Paul is being used to tarnish his name (since you can't actually tarnish his personal behavior or voting record). If you were a real Paul supporter you would keep your Zionist BS to yourself and realize that Paul doesn't have a problem with Jews, or any religion for that matter, and in fact he does have some support amongst Jewish voters (myself for example).

It really bothers me that the instant an decent politician who respects the Constitution shows up he is flooded with support from people who think the Jews magically control the world with their ample Jew gold and our ability as sorcerers.

Romney is our only choice!!! He's brilliant, honorable, has business and political leadership experience - and let's not forget CONSERVATIVE!!!!! We'll have to unite and work for his election. The Obama (the likely Democrat nominee) train is rolling, but he will, he HAS to be, exposed for what he is - a 2-yr Senator, who has NO record for doing anything – his peers have called him lazy – he rarely voted!!! Go MITT!!!! He'll be a great President.

Romney is a member of a cult that's precepts are against Christianity. Christianity is what America is founded on. As a republican, I could never vote for a Democrat, but if he gets the republican nomination I just won't vote.

Curt January 8, 2008 11:24 am ET

Great points about skeletons in closets. Everybody is talking about change, but talk is cheap. I've taken the time to review each candidates web site to see what they have to say about themselves (BTW I've contributed $2300 to both Republican and Democratic parties – which means I'm truly neutral from a wallet perspective). In looking at what the candidates have actually accomplished (I put a lot more weight on what they have done to create positive change), I'm most impressed with Mitt Romney. He's turned corporations around (I can personally identify with how difficult a task that is to accomplish and the way he has handled it has been most impressive), turned the 2002 Olympics into a success when it was in terrible shape, and took Massachusetts from a deficit to a surplus. I know he feels like he has to point out the weaknesses of other candidates, but I wish he would focus more on his strengths.

Big deal – Bush and Cheney were both businessmen and they nearly DESTROYED this country.

Only one man will save America from Forever War: RON PAUL. Remeember the Keating 5 and McCaines's prominent role

Great points about skeletons in closets. Everybody is talking about change, but talk is cheap. I've taken the time to review each candidates web site to see what they have to say about themselves (BTW I've contributed $2300 to both Republican and Democratic parties – which means I'm truly neutral from a wallet perspective). In looking at what the candidates have actually accomplished (I put a lot more weight on what they have done to create positive change), I'm most impressed with Mitt Romney. He's turned corporations around (I can personally identify with how difficult a task that is to accomplish and the way he has handled it has been most impressive), turned the 2002 Olympics into a success when it was in terrible shape, and took Massachusetts from a deficit to a surplus. I know he feels like he has to point out the weaknesses of other candidates, but I wish he would focus more on his strengths.

I can't believe New Hampshire is voting for ANY of the GOP.

McCain is a complete maniac, and Romney a leaf in the wind.

Romney-Thompson-McCaine-Guliani-Huckster-Huck: All phonies and liars. Ron Paul: America's only hope against Forever War and the Zionist Occupation of the West Bank of the Potomoc

Romney for 2008! He is the best leader, will vote for him, and hope he wins.

Steve Blaine Washington January 8, 2008 10:49 am ET

Has everyone forgot about Keating 5 and McCains part in it?

I haven't.

Has everyone forgotten that Rudy Giuliani was the one who had NYC's emergency management center put in the World Trade Center – the site of a previous terrorist attack – and its destruction hampered rescue efforts, resulting in a greater loss of life? And that he approved the purchase of non-compatible radio systems that prevented police and firefighters from speaking to one another, also resulting in more casualties? And that he tried to move his mistress (his current wife) into the mayor's residence while his then wife and kids were living there?

And has everyone forgotten that while the Twin Towers were burning, George Herbert Walker Bush was having breakfast with Osama Bin laden's brother at the Ritz-Carlton hotel in DC?

There are enough skeletons in closets to disqualify any GOP candidate, once you start connecting the dots.

How is it a blood feud again? Did I miss the part where the McCain family was at war with the Romneys?

Has everyone forgot about Keating 5 and McCains part in it?

Noone in either party I want to see occupy the whitehouse. Where are the clowns, send in the clowns, never mind there here in the form of the current crop of presidential canidates.

McCain's just a big baby. Romney's ads are not attacks. They focus on the issues – He has stated all along that McCain is a good, honorable man, but they disagree on issues. Mitt's not attacking his character, only his position. If McCain can't take the heat, get him out of the race. Romney can stand the pressure.

And I look forward to seeing him debate Obama in the election – it will be a great debate.

Go Mitt 2008!

Any Democrat can beat Mitt Romney so I say Romney for the nomination! I beleive every vote today for Romney is insurance of a Democrat in the White House!

Ron Paul is our only hope

Go Ron Paul 2008

And they'll both wind up sitting on a rooftop waiting for a boat to save them from the incoming tide of Democratic voters.....

Neither one deserve the nomination. I am a life-long Republican who will be endorsing Barack Obama this November. My father would probably be spinning in his grave if he knew that his party is balancing on the overspending of attack ads on these two mediocre candidates.

Mitt Romney is attempting to buy an election with negative ads and that doesn't sit well with a lot of people. He doesn't seem real.

Everyone makes mistakes and changes on certain policy issues. How can a serious candidate flip flop on abortion rights? Especially since you were raised a devout Mormon and attended BYU and was a Mormon missionary. It appears that he was pro-choice for about 5 convenient years while he was governor of liberal Massachusetts, then flip flopped back when he decided to run for a conservative Republican Presidential candidate.

The media is too manipulative. They have tried to play kingmaker and mortician through this whole thing. FOX kicking Ron Paul out of their debate in order to help Guiliani was repugnant- and I don't even support Ron Paul.

The media needs to be brought under control.