Massachusetts Gov. W. Mitt Romney, mulling a 2008 run for president, should be a dream candidate for many in the Republican Party.
Popular in his home state and noted as a charming and articulate speaker, Romney, 58, sprung onto the national stage when he oversaw the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, turning what was a potential debt-ridden disaster into a stunning success.
From there, he garnered 50% of the vote in his initial run for governor, in a state dominated by Democrats. Romney discovered upon taking office a $650 million deficit in fiscal 2003 and an anticipated one of $3 billion in fiscal 2004. Romney balanced the 2003 budget, and he finished 2004 with a $700 million surplus.
Romney, the valedictorian of his class at Brigham Young University, is noted as a dedicated family man who does not smoke or drink and who has been a church leader. He is a governor who personally opposes abortion, but would not block a woman's right to choose. He supports benefits for gay couples, but has pushed for a state constitutional amendment defining marriage as the union of a man and a woman.
In theory, Romney's conservative pedigree should appeal to the same majority that swept George W. Bush to narrow victories in 2000 and 2004. But, as in Massachusetts in 2002, Romney also should have cross-over appeal to attract conservative Democrats and independents.
But many believe he has virtually no chance of ever capturing the party's nomination.
***
Here's the problem: Romney is a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, more commonly known as the Mormons.
The Southern Baptist Convention website categorizes the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a "cult" that is "radically" different from historic, biblical Christianity. A faith guide issued by the influential Christian right group Focus on the Family declares that "God cannot be identified . . . with the Mormon religion's notion of god." The Focus on the Family website features a guide for teaching Christianity to children that lumps Mormons in with pagan worship. And each year, evangelical organizers behind the National Day of Prayer bar Mormons from speaking at their proceedings.
Given that the South has become a GOP stronghold in recent presidential races, many, including Romney himself, believe Romney's religion would emerge as an issue there should he seek to become the 44th president.
We're nearly five decades past John F. Kennedy breaking the Protestant barrier, as the nation's first Catholic president. Joseph Lieberman (D-CT), an orthodox Jew, was accepted by most as Al Gore's vice presidential nominee in 2000. John Kerry (D-MA), a Catholic, was the Democratic nominee in 2004. But the Religious Right, apparently, hasn't caught up completely.
***
Romney suggested, in a June interview with conservative magazine Weekly Standard, that his religion could pose a problem for some:
"This is a nation that will always welcome people of faith, and my party, in particular, will welcome people of faith," Romney said. "I think if you said, 'Look, we have a candidate for you, and you can know nothing about this person, except [his] religion, that's the only thing that you can know, this person is a Mormon, but that's all you can know. Do you want [him] as president?' Well my guess is with all of the misunderstanding and lack of understanding and differences between one religion and another, that I think a lot of people would say, 'Gosh, I am not sure that that makes me feel real comfortable.'"
Article comments
— go to most recent comments1 - Michael J. West
And yet, the Mormons are almost uniformly Republicans. Utah is a red, red state. Realistically, shouldn't it be the fundamentalist right that's reaching out to the Mormons, and not the other way around? They can't really afford to risk a constituency as large and powerful as the LDS...
2 - Kelly Knight
It is unfortunate in this day and age where the "Christian Right" can so vociferously complain about the liberal left being intolerant of "Christian Right" beliefs, practices, and ideologies on the one hand, and then so openly condemn one who is LDS for their practices and ideologies.
The LDS Church is at the forefront of family unity (The Family: A Proclamation to the World); Staunchly supports and defends right to life principles; Promotes charity and charitable giving (LDS Humanitarian Services), etc. Everything a Christian stands for, the LDS Church promotes.
So why so much hatred? Why can a Mormon not run for president, garner the support of the South, and bring strength and unity to the Republican Party?
Besides, who left the Southern Baptists in charge, anyway?
3 - Bob A. Booey
Would he wear his magic underwear during the debates?
That is all.
4 - Jim Davies
Interesting article. If anyone opposes a potential Romney candidacy, based on his religion, they should consider two things:
First, a statement by Richard J. Mouw, President of the Fuller Theological Seminary.
"By bearing false witness against our LDS neighbors, we evangelicals have often sinned not only against Mormons but against the God who calls us to be truth tellers."
Secondly, they should read an extremely thoughtful, well researched and documented book by Douglas E. Cowan, a former clergyman who teaches sociology and religious studies at the University of Missouri, Kansas City. The book's title is "Bearing False Witness? An Introduction to the Christian Countercult" (Westport, CT: Praeger, 2003).
Cowan's book is available on Amazon.com.
If one thoughtfully studies and considers these things and still concludes that they could not support a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, then so be it. But, in considering an office as critical as the Presidency of the United States, we, as citizens, should seek out honest, wise, good and capable men to serve. Mitt Romney is such a man.
5 - Dave Nalle
Romney does seem to have done a good job as governor, but even though I'm against everything the religious right stands for, they are basically correct in calling Mormonism a cult - of course it's a case of the pot calling the kettle black - but mormons remain creepy.
On the other hand we have had two Quaker presidents (can you name them?), so maybe it's not that much of an issue. After all, we used to tar and feather Quakers just on principle.
Dave
6 - Silas Kain
Richard M. Nixon was a Quaker. Anyway, I live in Massachusetts. Romney has done an adequate job. He has a reputation for being an aloof Governor who spends very little time within the confines of the State House except for photo ops. Romney may think he's presidential material, but he's not. While he may be a Mormon, he comes nowehere near Senator Orrin Hatch in stature or trustworthiness.
7 - zona
Magic Underwear? Creepy? Some of you people are so out of touch with the real world. Do you even know any Mormons? I bet you all know many and don't realize it, and would be shocked to learn they are as normal and everyday as anyone else. Some of the greatest people I know are Mormons. Many of them are excellent leaders, and I know that most of them I can trust completely. They don't compromise, they love and care of their families, and they have been wonderful friends. What are some people so afraid of?
The religious right has become so jaded...what do they care about most? Voting in one their own congregation? or putting a president in office who is honest and trustworthy, who knows how to lead, and can cut government enough to start getting us out of debt...and who shares their same values.
If Romney runs and people choose not to vote for him because is a Mormon, then that says much more about the voter than the candidate. Very sad.
8 - Jed Merrill
A cult is an organization that follows the teachings of a single person. In the case of the Mormons, that is Christ. How is that different than other Christians? No Mormon that I know of worships Joseph Smith or Brigham Young or even deifies themselves (as a Gerald or Sandra Tanner would claim.) Even the name honors Jesus Christ, where Baptists seem to honor John the Baptist above Christ, judging by name alone. Mormon is a nickname given the Church by non-Mormons, and never was an official name.
Anyway, I am very impressed with both the openmindedness and strong overall values of Mr. Romney and would certainly support him for President and encourage all others who value great leadership to do the same. He is strong and independent enough to not have to rely on a cabinet and questionable advisors to make smart decisions. We've seen it in his handling of the Olympics and his turnaround of the Massachusetts economy.
If you have any animosity toward Romney as a "Mormon" or "Mormons" in general, perhaps it is time to make sure the beam is out of your own eye. Baptists, not to offend anyone, have no firmer hold on what is "Christian" doctrine than any othe Protestant church. They simply have a louder voice as a larger church. I think it is also worth noting that while the Baptists are the second largest church numerically in America after Catholics, the "Mormons" or Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, recently became the fourth.
9 - DrPat
According to my Wikipedia,
And when the LDS Church began, they were certainly considered far outside the mainstream...
10 - Mormon Friend
If anyone has any question about what Romney or members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe, the following is excerpted from a document originally known as the Wentworth Letter (sent by the first President of the Church, Joseph Smith, to John Wentworth of the Chicago Tribune circa 1940) and now incorporated as The Articles of Faith of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I would draw particular attention to articles 11 through 13.
Incidentally, Joseph Smith was the first Mormon to run for President. He was assassinated prior to the election.
THE ARTICLES OF FAITH
OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS
History of the Church, Vol. 4, pp. 535-541
1 WE believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.
2 We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam's transgression.
3 We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.
4 We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.
5 We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof.
6 We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and so forth.
7 We believe in the gift of tongues, prophecy, revelation, visions, healing, interpretation of tongues, and so forth.
8 We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God.
9 We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.
10 We believe in the literal gathering of Israel and in the restoration of the Ten Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American continent; that Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and, that the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory.
11 We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may.
12 We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.
13 We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul--We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.
JOSEPH SMITH.
Source: http://scriptures.lds.org/a_of_f/1
11 - Dave Nalle
Sounds like a cult to me.
But at least he's not a Scientologist.
Dave
12 - Silas Kain
I know many Mormons as well and once considered conversion. The Book of Mormon is an interesting read. If you want to see what Mormons are all about all you have to do is look at the State Government in Utah or several local governments there. Most Mormons are fair, decent people who govern with principle and extreme efficiency. I have no respect for their attitude toward women or gays; but, that's the way it is with most religions built on hatred and guilt. Romney is in a different class. As much as people want to believe that he turned Massachusetts around, it isn't to all his credit. He is far from a hands on Governor unless it suits his opportunity to pose for pictures and give sound bytes. Socially he is ultra conservative which also causes me alarm.
13 - zona
What do believe are their attitudes towards women and gays? I have a very hard time believing that there is any hatred or guilt behind any of their motives or beliefs. Those I know who are Mormon, some of which have family members, friends or co-workers who are gay/lesbian, certainly don't agree with the lives they lead (I accept that they are firm in their beliefs regarding the matter) but seem very loving and accepting of them as people nonetheless.
I suppose there are going to be individuals who will have certain attitudes or act in certain unkind ways towards people who do things that they don't believe in. That is common in every aspect of our lives. But to say that the Mormon church is built on hatred and guilt is VERY hard for me to swallow. If it were so, I'd expect that the members of the Mormon church would act in accordance with those base beliefs...and I have just not seen it.
14 - Jed Merrill
The Mormon Church is not built on hatred or guilt, but love and service. It is understandable from a conservative point of view that Mormons would not view open gay lifestyles positively, as such a lifestyle could be seen as anti-family and immoral. Other Christian faiths (albeit not all individual Christians) seem to agree. The Church does welcome gays, but not their earthy lifestyle. Gays are encouraged to repent, and receive support from Church leaders (and God for that matter) in their efforts.
As for what you say about women, the largest women's society in the world is the Relief Society of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I do not know of a more empowering or empowered group. They could be seen as conservative feminists as opposed to liberal. They put family and personal spiritual development first in their lives.
Priesthood is irrelevant. The man without the woman or the woman without the man is incomplete before the Lord, according to the Bible. There are "priestesses" in the Church, just not in the Aaronic or Melchizedek Priesthoods, which administer the rights and ordinances of the gospel. In the end, all men and women are equal, and all are children of a just God who is merciful to those who exercise faith and repent, or in the words of Jesus, Come unto him.
15 - Jed Merrill
By priestess I mean that a man and a woman, when sealed in the temple as man and wife, receive certain blessings that individually they could not qualify for. In a sense they become priest and priestess over their family, and the family is the basic unit of the Church.
16 - Jed Merrill
And ultimately most enduring unit of the Church. Wards and Stakes divide and change, but the Church teaches that families can be together forever, and not just until death do we part, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel taught by Christ and restored through revelation from God in our day--to those who had the faith to ask for it.
17 - Jed Merrill
"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, who giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him." James 1:5 (The Bible)
18 - Jed Merrill
Can anyone find fault with that?
19 - Mormon Friend
That makes the one teaching that is truly distinctive about the Mormon faith the idea that God still answers prayers, and that the Heavens are not closed, contrary to teachings of other churches in the early 1800's. Everyhing else rests on that principle of continuing revelation from God. Joseph Smith was rabidly attacked by preachers in his day over that idea, even before the Church was organized, and I suppose we can expect the same today from closed-minded people who are willing to accept what God said 2,000 years ago but reject what he might have said 150 years ago or today--without looking at or praying about it.
20 - T.D.
If this is an issue for you, I strongly suggest you peel back the onionskin on Mormonism. It will take a little time, but is the only way to get your hands around why this is such a hot issue.
Mormonism is predominantly focused on the teachings of Joseph Smith, not Christ. It's "scriptures" are mostly penned by Smith and subsequent "prophet/presidents" and include numerous anachronisms and fanciful stories that defy any standard of objective truth. The secret of its proliferation lies in its reliance on emotional reaction to reading LDS books after periods of prayer and, often, fasting.
Someone who blindly believes these fantasies probably lacks the intellectual fortitude and common sense to govern responsibly. I'm a Republican and a Christian, and believe strongly that my beliefs must stand up under scrutiny, or they simply aren’t truth. I have never seen anything that demands such blind obedience and acceptance as Mormon doctrine. It is a classic cult that developed through isolation in Utah's frontier. Followers of Mormonism must declare allegiance to their doctrine, as well as belief that Joseph Smith and Gordon Hinckley (current Mormon President) are prophets.
If you want to peel back the onionskin more, I recommend "An Insider's View of Mormon Origins" by Grant Palmer. It's a short read, and one that will open your eyes to the truth about Mormon beliefs. Palmer, by the way, is a Mormon.
21 - Silas Kain
The basic tenets of Mormonism are very positive, especially when it comes to taking care of their own. What I have a problem with is the shunning of gays that takes place within the Church. If you're gay, you are disowned, disavowed, treated like scum. Fortunately, Affirmation is working to reconcile Mormons in the LGBT community. I don't have a problem with Mormons in political service. Orrin Hatch is an excellent example of a Mormon who has done a lot of good in Washington.
22 - Colin Jensen
The quick acceleration of this post shows exactly why Romney couldn't be elected. People just have no idea what Mormons believe, and the powerful political groups who try to monopolize and redefine the word "Christian" will prevent anyone from ever finding out.
I mean, James Dobson calling Mormons a non-Christian cult? Do people not know the definition of hypocrite any more than they know the definition of Christian? I like Romney, and have never liked Dobson or any of the like who think Christ needs help from those who are willing to lie cheat and steal to steady the ark.
If there were any moderates left in the world, Romney would be elected in a heartbeat. But when US politics has become ACLU vs. Pentecostals, Romney doesn't have a chance.
Colin Jensen
www.colinandbethany.com/phpBB2/
23 - Silas Kain
And Dobson doesn't head his own Christian cult? This is what kills me. These preachers all want a piece of the Christian pie and call it the best slice. Give me a break.
24 - Dean Bender
"any standard of objective truth" ? Give me a break; Moses walking on dry ground across a Sea? Christ walking on water? Peter instantly healing someone? Where does this standard of objective truth fit here?
"lacks the intellectual fortitude and common sense"? It has been researched and documented that the more education Mormons have the more active they are in their religion. The opposite is true of Roman Catholics and Protestants. The more education they have the less likely they are to be active participants.
Finally American culture teaches us to let our conscience be our guide. But according to some that Doesn't apply to reading the Book of Mormon. Read, ponder and prayer doesn't seem to work for them. How many times does the Lord have to instruct us to "Seek, ask, knock"?
25 - Rodney Remington
"Someone who blindly believes these fantasies probably lacks the intellectual fortitude and common sense to govern responsibly. I'm a Republican and a Christian, and believe strongly that my beliefs must stand up under scrutiny, or they simply aren’t truth."
??
You are a Christian but your beliefs must stand up under scrutiny? Do you believe in the Creation? That Moses parted the Red Sea? That people in Bibilical times lived to be hundreds of years old? Do these beliefs pass "scrutiny"?
Come on, Religion is an act of faith, not logical scrutiny. This is no more or less true of Mormons than any other Christian faith.
The fact is, most Mormons are more socially conservative and Republican than Baptists. Baptists better come to terms with this or they will find themselves in a very small tent.