I have been asked to write about Mitt Romney’s presidential bid.
You should know, the LDS Church has a fairly firm political neutrality stance, you can see more about it in this video. And I think our website here does as well.
Yes, a member of the LDS church is running for president. This is seen as a boon for the Church as it has increased awareness of our beliefs and general existence. At times it seems that the media cannot leave Romney’s religion alone, as if it matters more than his policies or goals. Generally we welcome this attention, even though it too often seems that they are missing the mark. I like that mormonnewsroom.com, a church-run site for church news has started a series of blogs titled “Mormonism in the News: Getting It Right” where they highlight mainstream media attention that gets the story straight. It’s a great way to weed through the deluge and get the accurate details.
No, we do not, as members, have to vote for him, agree with him or support him. Though many may choose to do so. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D) and many others probably won’t. The Church does not endorse any political candidates. Nor will the Church organization exert any influence over the politics or policies of Romney.
Yes, Romney is a Mormon, a Christian, and a Politician.
No, this is not the first time that a Mormon has run for President. The Prophet Joseph Smith announced his candidacy for President in 1844 as an independent but was killed in July of that year.
If you do not like Romney, but you still like Mormons, that’s fine, maybe you will like Yeah Samake, the LDS candidate running for president of Mali.