The speech

Sara, Iowa — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 14:29:16 GMT

Mitt Romney is a man that has the right values. He is right on immigration and on the economy. I feel that he is the right person to lead America at this time in our history. I am voting for a President not the leader of my church. I know that he had problems with his lawn service. He hired an American company. It is not his job to check all of that companies employees. I'm sure that we have all eaten at a restraunt that has had illegals working in it. Are we all to blame for that? We in Iowa need to look at the big picture here. Huckabee winning in Iowa is a nice story, but he is not right for America. By Huck winning in Iowa, it just gives the nomination to Rudy. Please think it through Iowa. Take religion out of the equation. If you can't, what does that say about you?

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Carol J. Baton Rouge LA — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 14:33:38 GMT

Finally, a candidate that takes the job of President seriously! Unlike Hillary and others who think we work for the President, Romney believes he works for us.

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pat huntington ny — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 14:35:02 GMT

Mitt Romney is a liar. He'll only serve as president to the ultra right wing religious hate mongering fundamentalists that want to turn this country into a theocracy like Iran. Worse than Rove and Bush, he'll plunge this country into a culture war like it has never seen. Mitt Romney is a flip flopping freak show and anyone who votes for him needs his/her head examined. The people of Massachuesettes were happy to see him go after one term, and what a lack luster disasterous term that was.

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juan,ft lauderdale,fl — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 14:36:48 GMT

Placing one's hand on the bible and taking the oath to uphold the law met absolutely nothing to Bush who proceeded to shred the constitution with Habeus Corpus, Presidential signing statements, warrentless wiretaps and we are suppose to beleive Romney? Yeah right!

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Mark Atlanta,Ga. — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 14:59:20 GMT

Why doesn't Mitt pull out a pistol and shoot himself in the foot instead of giving this speech? It would be quicker and less painful in the long run.

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Chuck,San Diego — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 15:13:49 GMT

MItt, didn't you make your money by outsourcing American jobs to our enemies?

Why don't you talk about that?

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Jose, Philippines — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 15:14:24 GMT

You Americans are very fortunate to have someone like Mitt Romney aspire for the highest office in your country. To have a leader like him is all but a dream for most of us in the developing world. May God bless you all in choosing the right person to be your President. Please be mindful that it's not just your interest alone that is at stake but the rest of the world.

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Steve Turner Cedar Falls Iowa — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 15:21:33 GMT

The GOP has only one religion. The 'Bohemian Owl God'(nutty, ain't it?), whatever other denomination they infer. It is the Neocon Religion. The Corporate Religion. All other denominations, and I mean all of them, Christian, Muslim, Brahmin, Buddhist, Jewish, Wicca, Atheist, Agnostic, you name it, should realize they have been taken for a ride. The Separation of Church and State, is all that protects them. Pray for its' reinstating to its' original purpose.

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fra59e, Los Angeles CA — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 15:22:44 GMT

The last thing we need is another religious president. To get America back on course as a model for the world, not its imperial ruler, we need leaders who care more for the Republic than for their imaginary gods and delusions of divinely-endorsed mission. We need leaders who will seek to advance the well-being of the American people, not serve as our nannies supervising what they perceive as moral values.

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Ryan Keay, Central, Connecticut — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 15:27:07 GMT

Mitt Romney is a man who has changed his opinion on most major issues depending on what what office he is running for and what he thinks the voters want to hear. Then he is bashing opponents for hiring illegal aliens when he has them landscaping his yard at that very moment. This has nothing to do with politcal party, the man can't even manage is own home, how can he run a country? I guess none of this conversation will mean anything in the end, he was way behind in most polls even before the recent bad PR and has little if any chance of getting the nomination.

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juan,ft lauderdale,fl — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 15:27:32 GMT

Jose The Mormon's have been very good at spreading their faith throughout the world thru missions. Is that why you are so enamored of him? I see him as a millionaire who will say anything (flip/flop) and pander to get elected. His hair, swarmy smile/ kodak moment and his 5 sons who are too busy trying to get him elected to volunteer to fight against crazy Islamofascists. Mitt just needs to flush millions of his own money down the toilet and lose big time.

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Rick Lapin, Albuquerque, NM — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 15:31:39 GMT

Politics, n. A strife of interests masquerading as a contest of principles.The conduct of public affairs for private advantage.

Politician, n. An eel in the fundamental mud upon which the superstructure of organized society is reared. When he wriggles he mistakes the agitation of his tail for the trembling of the edifice. As compared to the statesman, he suffers the disadvantage of being alive.

Conservative, n. A statesman who is enamoured of existing evils, as distinguished from the Liberal, who wishes to replace them with others.

Presidency, n. The greased pig in the field game of American politics.

President, n. The leading figure in a small group of men of whom -- and of whom only -- it is positively known that immense numbers of their countrymen did not want any of them for President.

Religion, n. A daughter of Hope and Fear, explaining ti Ignorance the nature of the Unknowable.

Mugwump, n. In politics,one afflicted with self-respect and addicted to the vice of independence. A term of contempt.

-- from “The Devils Dictionary”, by Ambrose Bierce

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juan,ft lauderdale,fl — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 15:36:50 GMT

fra59e-Right on my sentiments exactly!

The speech

Randy, Prince William County, Va. — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 15:46:28 GMT

It’s shameful that Mitt Romney feels compelled to give a speech to the American people proving he is “Christian enough” to be their president. It’s downright frightening that he must do so because Mike “I’m no monkey” Huckabee is surging in the polls. Let’s face it folks: An intellectual giant and proud non-Christian such as Thomas Jefferson could never get elected in today’s America.

The speech

Richard, Fort Worth, TX — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 15:51:57 GMT

Do we just live in a Great Country?

We have freedom of Religion.

But a Mormon can not be President

We fight for Women’s rights in other Countries.

But a Woman Can not be President in our Country.

I wonder how many of our History’s Great Men in this COUNTRY came here as illegal immigrants?

The speech

norma kent — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:01:39 GMT

Mitt Romneys faith requires him to "FIRST, PROTECT THE CHURCH' dictated by Brigham Young. His hand on the Bible will mean nothing, because, as a mormon, he believes in the Bible only as interpreted by Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism.

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norma kent — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:04:41 GMT

Mormonism is not a Christian religion. Their present president wishes us all to believe that they are, as it is important to be read as mainstream. However, they don't believe in the divinity of Christ, nor the Trinity. both of which are absolute in being a Christian religion.

The speech

Lou Ramos, Tampa, Florida — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:06:45 GMT

I am a born again Christian and am not totally familiar with the Mormon theology. However, this speech was a "home run" and may mark the start of our new President!

I would like to get a copy of the speech Mitt Romney just gave. The contents have valuable information for anyone interested in professional growth, integrity, honesty, love of country, and las; but not least, believe and love for our Creator!

How can I get a copy of the speech?

The speech

judith,pittsburgh,pa — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:07:44 GMT

as a jewish women, i feel that i just walked into the
church!!if you don't believe in jesus...you don't belong in this country??

The speech

John Thompson Branson ,Mo. — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:09:26 GMT

Did I count wrong I read 8 negative statrments about Romney and 3 positive. Sounds unfair to me.

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Gary, Franklin, WI — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:11:17 GMT

Romney's statement reads very well until these sentences:

"It is as if they are intent on establishing a new religion in America - the religion of secularism. They are wrong."

The term "secular" (and it's various permutations) is the critical buzz word of the "religious" right. The "they" in Romney's sentence applies to everyone who believes firmly in the separation of church and state in the administration of public affairs in the United States.

The idea that a person's religion (or lack of any religious faith) has no impact on their thought processes or decision-making is not rational. What we should all want is that America continues to be a land of freedom (sorely tested under Bush) where our elected officials remember they represent ALL the people, not just some subset of persons of faith or persons who deny or remain unsure about God.

We are a secular society because government leaves to the individual issues of faith. That is one of America's greatest strengths. If that freedom is what Romney is criticizing, he does not deserve to lead this nation.

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pat huntington ny — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:12:04 GMT

Has anyone seen the South Park episode spoofing the Mormon religion and how it was started...one of the biggest con-jobs in American history!

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Jason Leverette, Mobile, AL — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:13:00 GMT

HYPOCRACY! It's extremely difficult to believe there are so many hypocritical American'? in our country especially those who claim they are Christians. Morever, there are Evangelicals who claim they are the ONLY Christians and every other Religion IS NOT! Civilised American citizens should vote for the person who will guide our country to success in all endeavors and improve the status of every American by offering them opportunities to advance their positions and situations to a better life...regardless of race, creed, religion or gender.

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Joe Dunkle — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:13:08 GMT

Very Impressive - and spoken like a president. The founding fathers would embrace Mr. Romney.
Joe in Idaho

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Joshua, Atlanta — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:18:43 GMT

Richard,
Who said a Woman or Morman could not be our President?
You may have heard many say they do not want a Woman or a Mormon as Pres, but there is no law saying they cannot.
If so why are they running?
I think most Americans vote on more than religeon or gender but rather on convictions and principles.

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Donald, Fairbanks,AK — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:19:37 GMT

Since someone believes Mormonism is not a Christian religion. Please define what you believe a Christian religion is.

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Sean Drummond, — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:19:58 GMT

Norma Kent, one of the tenents of the LDS faith can be found in the their Articles of Faith which describe some basic beliefs. The twelth article of faith reads: "We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in cobeying, honoring, and sustaining the law." I beleive you will find that members of the LDS faith are very patriotic to the countries in which they live around the world.

The speech

Billy, Seattle Wash — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:21:50 GMT

Seems like a straight shooter to me. Good to see a politician be forthcoming without all the political spin. Dang good speaker as well. More eloquent than our present guy by leaps and bounds.

The speech

Jeff Henderson, Raleigh, NC — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:26:28 GMT

Norma -

You believe you have to believe in the 'Trinity' to be a Christian? You need to read some history and learn more about how the false doctrine of the 'Trinity' came into being. It was NEVER taught by Christ and the scripture are CLEAR they that are seperate individuals. Besides, I love how so many consider 'mainstream' christianity to be those who believe in the trinity - dictating what a 'Christian' is. There are hundreds of different Christian denominations and they all teach different doctrines. Mitt Romney - and all other active Mormons believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God - LITERALLY. Please don't tell Mormons what they believe. Romney would be a terrific president - despite the differences in doctrines believed by different Christians. I'm Mormon - and I also think Huckabee would serve sell...I don't let his belief in the Trinity influence me. Either of the two would be head and shoulders above MANY Presidents we've had in
the past.

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Griffin Edwards, Atlanta, GA — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:29:36 GMT

Norma Kent,

The bible officially used by the body of the Mormon church is the Kings James Version, in English, and the Reina Valera, in Spanish. Neither were translated by Joseph Smith, and both are pretty mainstream editions of the Bible.

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Dr. Glenn Partridge, Flint, Michigan — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:30:00 GMT

Because of the treatment of the Latter-Day-Saints over the last 150+ years, Mr. Romney is all too aware of the value religious tolerance. It is more than just a philisophicly or even just a theologicly appealing practice, it is based in historical fact. Despite the violent intolerance heaped on this miniscule sect (at the time), the Latter-Day-Saints have let the fruits of their faith speak the trueth of the values that resonate with all cultures throughout the world. Because of this, Mr. Romney is uniquely qualified to find shared interests with the global community that transend mere politics.

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Sean Drummond, Terre Haute, IN — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:32:48 GMT

Norma Kent, as to your comment that the LDS church does not believe in the divinity of Christ, you need only to read the statement published by the leaders of the LDS church in 2000 from which I have quoted below to realize your statement is incorrect:

"As we commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ two millennia ago, we offer our testimony of the reality of His matchless life and the infinite virtue of His great atoning sacrifice. None other has had so profound an influence upon all who have lived and will yet live upon the earth.

He was the Great Jehovah of the Old Testament, the Messiah of the New. Under the direction of His Father, He was the creator of the earth. "All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made" (John 1:3). Though sinless, He was baptized to fulfill all righteousness. He "went about doing good" (Acts 10:38), yet was despised for it. His gospel was a message of peace and goodwill. He entreated all to follow His example. He walked the roads of Palestine, healing the sick, causing the blind to see, and raising the dead. He taught the truths of eternity, the reality of our premortal existence, the purpose of our life on earth, and the potential for the sons and daughters of God in the life to come.

He instituted the sacrament as a reminder of His great atoning sacrifice. He was arrested and condemned on spurious charges, convicted to satisfy a mob, and sentenced to die on Calvary's cross. He gave His life to atone for the sins of all mankind. His was a great vicarious gift in behalf of all who would ever live upon the earth.

We solemnly testify that His life, which is central to all human history, neither began in Bethlehem nor concluded on Calvary. He was the Firstborn of the Father, the Only Begotten Son in the flesh, the Redeemer of the world."

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J.C., Salt Lake City, UT — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:35:31 GMT

Thank you Jeff Henderson, for trying to inform someone as ignorant and close-minded as norma.

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Bob W. — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:40:49 GMT

I am still trying to understand why wo many fall at the feet of one who says he loves God. Look what God hath wrought with our "Saved" prsident bush. Our forfathers foresaw the danger in just such a religious test or criteria. Saying one is religious or saved does not assure honesty, integrity or truth. Today it is a political statement.

The speech

Ryan, Phoenix, AZ — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:47:41 GMT

Before you hatemongers get on your high horse anymore, how about you learn a little about what you slander so that you can at least talk without looking foolish to those of us that have studied a little about it. Feel free to browse literature offered by the LDS Church, (and not some sideshow charltan or religious bigot) you might learn something and be able to at least offer a credible argument instead of 'South Park r00les dude! I R ub3r 1337! Mormons sukzorz!'

There is not a candidate in the land that offers everything that Americans need for a successful president. You need to prioritize your concerns, be it the border, the war on terror, the economy, oil etc and then find those candidates that agree with your priorities the best. Mitt Romney is the candidate that is the best suited to run this country and bring it back to greatness. We need a strong moral compass and a sound understanding of why America is still the greatest country on earth and Mitt is the man for the job.

The speech

truthseeker,charleston,sc — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:51:27 GMT

Mitt Romney, a Mormom, believes Jesus Christ visited Missouri???

I do not think that will play very well in South Carolina and Mitt knows this is a big problem.

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Johnny U, WA State — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:53:03 GMT

We don't need religious zeal (of ANY flavor) in the WH. We need clear thinking, honesty, sound foreign & domestic agendas.

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Phil Edwards, Aberdeen, NC — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 17:06:24 GMT

Jeff is correct in his comments concerning the "trinity" and its origins. I also agree with his comment that both deeply religious men (Romney and Huckabee) would make good Presidents. I, too, do not belive in the Trinity but have voted for candidates that did. Their religious beliefs notwithstanding, I voted for the person I felt would serve the country and its people best. Something that the gainsayers should remember is - a little manure around the base of the tree only helps the tree to grow. Focus on the issues that affect us, not the religious issues that divide us.

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Donald Fairbanks, AK — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 17:17:42 GMT

Does a faith in a supreme being preclude "clear thinking, honesty, sound foreign & domestic agendas?" I wonder why no faith and a belief in nothing greater than oneself would be outstanding qualifications for any job.

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Carol Horr,Farmington Hills,MI. — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 18:28:10 GMT

Ditto- Ryan of Arizona-most of the above comments are out of total ignorance- ignorance of the Mormon Religion and ignorance of being so influenced by the biased left wing media. Try reading some truly valid information on the religion and what incredible accomplishments this man has on his record. I am also really tired of you hypocrites talking about him flip flopping-Intelligent people will and should change their opinions after being informed of new information. And whether he has gotten his moral convictions from his church,his family or the Easter Bunny- at least he has them. We won't be wasting the tax payers money or time on an impeachment if he becomes president. He is the most intelligent and moral candidate we have seen in many, many, many years. He will be looking out for all of us, regardless of our religion, race or gender.

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John Alexander,Edinboro,PA — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 18:28:16 GMT

Anybody can say they believe, It is not what they believe that is important but how they would act, will they talk to our enemies or act out, will they look to help the poor, the hungry, the less fortunate, the faithful and the non-believer. George says he belives, goes to church and closes his eyes, but does he really pray, we will never know, but what we do know is that he has used his faith to quiet dissent from those who don't support him, that is the way of a scoundrel, I believe he belives but his actions show he doesn't listen. Will Romney be any different, I am not sure, he has not pulled away from the current administration yet, this does not bode well for our country.

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Brad, Broomfield, CO — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 18:57:01 GMT

Romney owes a donation to the JFK foundation for plagiarism of Kennedy's 1960 speech. However, unlike the JFK, Romney is only playing to the crowd and does not believe in his own words (borrowed as they may be). Not long ago a Muslim could not serve in a Romney Presidency but yesterday suddenly he is calling for a separation between church and state when it benefits his candidacy. Mitt is the snake oil salesman, con-man, and hypocrite regardless of what church he attends. This should not be a discussion about LDS but on his core values, which seem to be for sale rather it be for votes or donations.

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Bruce, NV — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 19:01:10 GMT

Pat, you seem awfully tolerant of everyone except for those that don't agree with you, or ultra right wing religious hate mongering fundamentalists that want to turn this country into a theocracy like Iran.

I'm sure you see the hypocrisy of your views.

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Bruce, NV — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 19:01:11 GMT

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pat huntington ny — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 19:47:47 GMT

Bruce, I am intolerant of the intolerant, which includes people like Mitty and yes, the entire religious right, because their whole message is based on intollerance.

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pat huntington ny — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 19:51:42 GMT

Mitt Romney was governor of Massachusettes when they started the Big Dig. Remember, the huge tunnel under Boston that was crumbling down on drivers? He signed off on the shoddy work and cheap inferior materials. This is not who we need as president.

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Phil Edwards, Aberdeen, NC — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 20:49:56 GMT

I just viewed Romney's speech in it's entirety and was duly impressed. He came across as a good and patriotic American and I believe he will make a great President. I would even vote for a Democrat if I could ever find one with such conviction and with core values that are actually reflected in the lives of both himself and his family. Not since Ronald Reagan, have I had a greater respect for a man running for public office. Those of you who wish to wail and gnash teeth over particular tenets of faith as prerequistes for such a high office, need to kneel down in deep introspection and remember those words of Samuel Adams that Romney quoted, "I will hear the prayer of any man of piety, and of good character, as long as they are a Patriot". When you can do that, as they did in 1774, you, too, are a patriot and true American.

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Phil Edwards, Aberdeen, NC — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 20:57:01 GMT

Pat, wherein did Mitt Romney "sign off on" any shoddy work or cheap materials? He was the Governor, not the Mayor of Boston, or the Inspector that was supposed to be there to hold the contractor to a high standard. If you don't like the guy just say so and let it go, but don't blame him for everything that didn't go well while he was in office. A good number of former Presidents would have been in the unemployment line if they were all similarly held accountable for the mistakes of others.

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TS Beavercreek, Ohio — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 00:03:24 GMT

Oh...Pat. Now I understand where you're coming from.

YOU ASK,
'Has anyone seen the South Park episode spoofing the
Mormon religion and how it was started...one of the biggest con-jobs in American history!
pat huntington ny (Sent Thursday, December 06, 2007' 11:12 AM)
South Park is where Pat got his "facts" about the Mormon Church. Scarier is that some of you believe him.

This country can only be as great as the people in it. When a good one comes along with the character of Romney and we can not see the good, it is a sad day.
Too many would vote for a Homer Simpson for Pres.