Mitt Romney - President in 2008

The Narrowing Field (Editorial)

2006-12-24T07:23:00.000-07:00

That problem has been exacerbated by the withering away of the federal matching fund system, which was designed to boost lesser-known primary candidates but has now become functionally irrelevant, because the top-tier candidates can raise more on their own than they would be permitted to if they accepted matching funds. An increasingly front-loaded primary system -- on the Democratic side, candidates will need enough to get through four contests in 15 days -- intensifies the need for an early pile of cash.
-From Washington Post

Keeping the Faith: Considering the religion of our next president (comments)

2006-12-24T07:21:00.000-07:00

Religion has always been a way of explaining an endermatic universe. We should not choose our national leader based on adherence to a more ancient and venerated irrationality than her opponent. The only rational religious question for a national leader is "does the person's belief interfere or assist the candidate." As Jesus said "by there fruits ye shall know them." Let's judge Romney and all other candidates on their life and what they have done. Romney is intelligent. First in his class out of Harvard. His life's work has involved turning around struggling companies. He did a great job with the winter Olympics and as a Governor. I am sure not every one agrees with these points. But that is what we should be talking about.

All comments in reaction to: Romney's Religion

Is America ripe for a Mormon president?

2006-12-24T07:19:00.000-07:00

All these things I learned that morning.

But as 10 minutes became half an hour and an hour and more, I made a much more profound discovery about this faith: that its adherents are bright and intellectually open, and have a sense of humour, of humanity, that is sadly lacking in other strands of American religious life.

The delicate balance between religion and politics

2006-12-23T05:54:00.000-07:00

Kennedy's September 1960 speech to the Greater Houston Ministerial Association is credited with having destigmatized his Catholicism as a campaign issue. No doubt the Romney camp would like to do something similar -- make it so that questions about Mormon temple garments are beyond the bounds of respectable journalism. But Romney, a man of faith, has another concern: at what cost?

Romney set for presidential announcement

2006-12-22T21:52:00.001-07:00

The Massachusetts chief executive is expected to file paperwork as early as Jan. 2 with the Federal Election Commission, establishing a presidential campaign committee and permitting himself to begin raising money for his race on the first business day of the new year. Romney will leave office on Jan. 4.

Romney's Religion: A Mormon president? No way.

2006-12-22T07:57:00.001-07:00

One may object that all religious beliefs are irrational—what's the difference between Smith's "seer stone" and the virgin birth or the parting of the Red Sea? But Mormonism is different because it is based on such a transparent and recent fraud. It's Scientology plus 125 years. Perhaps Christianity and Judaism are merely more venerable and poetic versions of the same. But a few eons makes a big difference. The world's greater religions have had time to splinter, moderate, and turn their myths into metaphor. The Church of Latter-day Saints is expanding rapidly and liberalizing in various ways, but it remains fundamentally an orthodox creed with no visible reform wing.

Mitt Romney and the Politics of Sincerity

2006-12-21T22:19:00.001-07:00

Some people believe that Mitt Romney had a genuine change of heart on abortion; some people believe that he has flip-flopped to win first the Massachusetts governorship and then the Republican presidential nomination. There is a middle possibility. Perhaps it is simultaneously true that Romney would pass a lie-detector test if asked whether he thought abortion should generally be banned and that he would not have adopted this position in different political circumstances.

MITT ROMNEY'S 'CHANGES'

2006-12-21T22:17:00.000-07:00

But is Romney just another glib Bay State quick-change artist who's rearranged his stripes because he would like to be president? Is he angling for acceptance among GOP social conservatives by turning himself into something he's not?

Will Christians Back a Mormon Candidate?

2006-12-21T13:56:00.000-07:00

As a clean-living, church-going father and grandfather, Gov. Mitt Romney has a natural appeal among conservative Christians.
The Massachusetts Republican, though, faces a delicate dilemma: How does a devout Mormon woo religious activists critical to winning the GOP presidential nomination when many of those same activists are openly hostile to a faith they consider no more than cult?

Mass. Governor's Rightward Shift Raises Questions

2006-12-21T13:43:00.000-07:00

As he prepares for a 2008 presidential campaign, Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney (R) has championed the conservative principles that guided President Ronald Reagan, become an outspoken opponent of same-sex marriage and supported overturning the Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion.

Frist Aide to Lead Romney's Online Team

2006-12-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

Frist Aide to Lead Romney's Online Team - The Right Angle @ HumanEvents.com:
"The tech-savvy Smith joins two other highly respected Republicans who recently signed on with Romney. Former RNC Research Director Matt Rhoades and Kevin Madden, who served as House Majority Leader John Boehner’s spokesman, form the nucleus of Romney’s likely campaign team."

Romney says he backs Bush’s Iraq war policies

2006-12-20T18:16:00.000-07:00

BostonHerald.com - National Politics: Romney says he backs Bush’s Iraq war policies:
"Romney told reporters in Iowa that Bush should talk with generals and others on the front lines in Iraq to decide how to proceed.
“We should not turn around and walk out of Iraq,” he said. “That would be a mistake.”
When asked if he supported a surge in troops, one of the options Bush is said to be considering, Romney declined to discuss such details. "

In South Carolina, McCain seeks reversal of fortune while Romney, Giuliani stand in way

2006-12-20T05:37:00.000-07:00

AP Wire | 12/19/2006 | In South Carolina, McCain seeks reversal of fortune while Romney, Giuliani stand in way:
"'We're programmed to hate McCain,' explained Lisa Manini Sox, executive director of the state Senate Republican caucus. She couldn't pinpoint one reason for her opposition but cast doubt on whether she could be 'deprogrammed.' Added Katrina Shealy, the treasurer of the Lexington County GOP: 'He's explosive. He's the Howard Dean of the Republican Party.'"

Romney says his view of immigration policy hasn't changed

2006-12-19T13:58:00.000-07:00

Romney says his view of immigration policy hasn't changed - The Boston Globe:
"'We need an employment verification system in this country, so that employers, legal employers, are able to determine whether the person they're hiring is a legal worker in this country,' Romney said. 'We don't have such a system, and I've been proposing for some time that we implement such a system.'"

The New World (blog)

2006-12-19T09:02:00.000-07:00

The Corner on National Review Online - The New World:
"Still, it is remarkable that Romney would reach out to bloggers and a conservative radio personality for such a private event. Such pre-announcement affairs where donors and activists are courted and cultivated have almost always been kept under wraps and out of public view by campaigns that haven't yet officially started. If a candidate wanted a press hit from his stop in the area, he'd usually pay a visit to local paper; that was the most effective way to get your message out. But the times are a changin.' "

Romney meets with press 'off the record' at holiday party

2006-12-19T08:47:00.000-07:00

Local News Updates - Romney meets with press 'off the record' at holiday party - The Boston Globe:
"Romney, who spent the weekend in Louisiana and Tennessee, is hosting his annual Holiday Press Party tonight in the Executive Suite at the State House. There is, however, one caveat that his staff made clear on the governor's schedule with bold letters and an asterisk.
The holiday party is 'off the record.' "

Romney quietly putting together meetings in New Hampshire

2006-12-18T20:09:00.000-07:00

James Pindell - The Primary Source - Romney quietly putting together meetings in New Hampshire - Boston.com:
"Some Romney supporters have long worried the Massachusetts governor would because so familiar to neighboring New Hampshire audiences that there would be less excitement about his visits. Because of this concern, they put together smaller events that attract less attention."

Mitt Romney & Conservatives

2006-12-18T12:13:00.000-07:00

Byron York on Mitt Romney & Conservatives on National Review Online:
"Another problem Romney might have is the sheer recent-ness of his change of views, which occurred at virtually the same moment Romney was making early moves in South Carolina. A change itself is not that unusual, says David Woodard, but the timing is. “There are a lot of conversion stories,” Woodard says, “people who say, ‘I was pro-choice until my daughter got pregnant,’ or ‘I was pro-choice until a friend got pregnant,’ and then they had a lot of misgivings. That worked in the ‘80s, or the early ‘90s, but in 2004, after this issue has been aired for many years? It’s going to be harder.”"

Romney has team in place

2006-12-18T08:29:00.000-07:00

Romney has team in place | GoUpstate.com | Spartanburg, S.C.:
"The 2008 presidential primary is still more than a year away, but that hasn't stopped the likely contenders from parading through South Carolina in recent months. While some are content to make a quick visit and possibly leave behind a small contribution for local party coffers, a few are doing more than that."

Candidates have their hands out

2006-12-18T07:12:00.000-07:00

Candidates have their hands out - Los Angeles Times:
"For Romney, the Massachusetts governor trying to mount a conservative challenge to better-known moderates, the three-day visit to California last week offered a chance to narrow his rivals' head start. Among the prominent California supporters helping to introduce him to donors was major Bush fundraiser Rick Caruso, builder of the Grove shopping mall in Los Angeles. "

Scrutiny and opportunity (blog)

2006-12-18T05:01:00.000-07:00

Scrutiny and opportunity » GetReligion:
"It’s a nice and lengthy story that includes many perspectives. Some folks think the church will benefit from the increased scrutiny, some don’t. She looks at how the Mormon church handles public relations during times of increased scrutiny and what previous Mormon politicos have had to deal with:"

Mitt Romney: America's First Mormon President?

2006-12-17T22:26:00.000-07:00

Mitt Romney: America's First Mormon President? - Newsweek Politics - MSNBC.com:
"In late October, departing Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney huddled with a godly group. Gathered in his kitchen were 15 of the country's leading evangelicals, including giants like Jerry Falwell, Franklin Graham and Richard Land of the Southern Baptist Convention. They'd come to nibble sandwiches, slurp soup and quiz Romney on his faith. Why on earth should they support Romney, a Mormon, in his presidential candidacy in 2008? Richard Lee, a Baptist minister from Cumming, Ga., got to the heart of the matter. What did Romney really believe about Jesus Christ?"

Changing views

2006-12-17T22:23:00.000-07:00

Changing views - The Boston Globe:
"When Governor Mitt Romney steps down next month, he will depart Beacon Hill a far more conservative voice on social issues than when he arrived in 2002 and when he ran for Senate in 1994. On stem cell research, abortion, emergency contraception, abstinence education, and gay rights, Romney has distanced himself from the more moderate positions he has held in the past."

Why a Mormon Can Be President

2006-12-17T22:09:00.000-07:00

Meridian Magazine: Why a Mormon Can Be President:
"The 59-year-old venture capitalist, governor of Massachusetts, and white knight, who saved the ailing Salt Lake Olympics and turned it from a $400 million deficit to a $100 million surplus, has been methodically putting all the pieces in place with the flair and deftness of one who has built many organizations before. He has been staff-building, fund-raising, and reaching out broadly for support."

Mormons upbeat as Mitt hits spotlight

2006-12-17T07:54:00.000-07:00

Salt Lake Tribune - Mormons upbeat as Mitt hits spotlight:
"More than a year ago, Mitt Romney sought the advice of LDS President Gordon B. Hinckley about a run for the presidency. At the meeting, as reported in a Mormon-focused magazine, Hinckley said the decision was Romney's to make, not the church's. But if Romney decided to go for it, Hinckley wasn't worried. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints would survive the inevitable scrutiny. "

Can a Mormon be president?

2006-12-17T07:52:00.000-07:00

Can a Mormon be president? | Chicago Tribune:
"The 2008 race for the White House is under way and the question already is in debate: Can a Mormon be elected president of the United States? In a country where the majority of voters tell pollsters that a president should have strong religious beliefs, potential GOP candidate Mitt Romney may soon find out whether that equally applies to a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints."

Romney's Mormon faith an issue on its own as '08 campaign starts

2006-12-17T07:47:00.000-07:00

Romney's Mormon faith an issue on its own as '08 campaign starts | GoUpstate.com | Spartanburg, S.C.:
"A common question that is posed to a newcomer in the South goes like this: 'Where are you from?'

'What do you do?'

'Where do you go to church?'

The answer to that last one could sway the 2008 presidential race."

Romney's journey to the right

2006-12-17T07:45:00.000-07:00

Romney's journey to the right - The Boston Globe:
"'I sat down with a researcher. And he said, 'Look, you don't have to think about this stem cell research as a moral issue, because we kill the embryos after 14 days,' ' Romney recalled on ' The Charlie Rose Show ' last June, characterizing the meeting as a watershed moment for him. 'That struck me as he said that.'"

Hillary Trails McCain, Beats Romney in 2008

2006-12-17T07:39:00.000-07:00

Hillary Trails McCain, Beats Romney in 2008: Angus Reid Global Monitor:
"Republican John McCain holds the upper hand in a United States presidential contest against Democrat Hillary Rodham Clinton, according to a poll by Bloomberg and the Los Angeles Times. 50 per cent of respondents would vote for the Arizona senator, while 36 per cent would support the New York senator.

In a contest pitting Rodham Clinton against Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney, the Democrat holds a six-point advantage."

Romney masters the slip

2006-12-16T12:41:00.000-07:00

Romney masters the slip - The Boston Globe:
"Romney has, for the most part, successfully avoided the press in Boston and elsewhere in recent days, even as questions mount about his past comments on gay rights, his conservative credentials, and the timing of his expected announcement about his 2008 presidential run."

Romney's response

2006-12-16T08:09:00.000-07:00

Inside Politics - Nation/Politics - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper - Romney's response :
"'I'm committed to promoting the culture of life,' the Massachusetts governor told the conservative magazine. 'Like Ronald Reagan and Henry Hyde and others who became pro-life, I had this issue wrong in the past.'
The comments were Mr. Romney's first public explanation of his stance on the two key social issues since the publication last week of a 1994 letter — sent in the final weeks of his failed campaign against Sen. Edward M. Kennedy — in which he cited his sensitivity to the concerns of Log Cabin Republicans, the Republican homosexual group. "

GOP Contenders on a Tightrope

2006-12-16T08:08:00.000-07:00

George F. Will - GOP Contenders on a Tightrope - washingtonpost.com:
"Events are accelerating the 2008 Republican nomination contest. When the president speaks on Iraq next month, McCain might be compelled to choose between endorsing a troop withdrawal leading to a 'catastrophic' defeat or an 'immoral' policy of futile perseverance. And by then Romney must explain the ballast of belief he carries as he attempts to become the social conservatives' candidate."

McCain's Michigan nightmare: Romney

2006-12-15T21:43:00.000-07:00

DETNEWS | Weblog | Politics - McCain's Michigan nightmare: Romney:
"John McCain played the spoiler in 2000, upending frontrunner George W. Bush in the February Michigan primary and momentarily casting doubt on Bush's party coronation.

As 2008 looms, McCain is the frontrunner - and, ironically, Michigan could prove his undoing."

'06 rearranges '08 presidential chairs

2006-12-15T10:11:00.000-07:00

'06 rearranges '08 presidential chairs - USATODAY.com:
"Romney: He 'absolutely blew away New Hampshire Republicans with his smooth talking,' Luntz said. But Romney also was 'blown away by Iowa Republicans for evasive answers and lack of national experience.' Romney 'looks and sounds presidential,' Luntz said, but his Mormon faith was a hurdle for some focus group participants. "

Romney: I’ve evolved into the right’s stuff

2006-12-15T07:04:00.000-07:00

BostonHerald.com - Local Politics: Romney: I’ve evolved into the right’s stuff:
"Addressing the issue for the first time yesterday, Romney told National Review Online editor Kathryn Jean Lopez - who admitted to having “pro-Romney tendencies” in the transcript - that his position on gay marriage has changed."

Ehrlich sought by 2008 maybes

2006-12-14T12:45:00.000-07:00

Ehrlich sought by 2008 maybes - Metropolitan - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper:
"'Mitt and I have similar views on issues,' he said. 'He obviously being a Northeastern Republican had some of the same obstacles that we have had as well.' "

A Primary Factor: Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney in an exclusive pre-Christmas 2006 interview

2006-12-14T07:46:00.000-07:00

Interview on National Review Online: Gov. Mitt Romney:
"Lopez: Will an exposé on Mormon Christmas celebrations hurt you in the primaries?

Gov. Romney: This may sound strange to some, but my grandchildren will be eagerly awaiting presents to be delivered to their homes by a bearded man in a red suit led by a pack of flying reindeer. The lead reindeer, by the way, has a red light bulb for a nose — certainly a YouTube scandal waiting to happen."

It's religious bigotry

2006-12-14T06:50:00.000-07:00

deseretnews.com | It's religious bigotry:
"For that matter, polls have shown a percentage of Americans today hold onto their religious bigotry and would refuse to vote for Romney — should he run for president — because of his membership in the LDS Church."

Clinton and Giuliani Have Early Edge in '08 Race, Poll Shows

2006-12-13T19:23:00.000-07:00

Clinton and Giuliani Have Early Edge in '08 Race, Poll Shows - washingtonpost.com:
"There was another potentially more significant issue of concern for Romney in the survey. Asked whether they would be more or less likely to vote for a candidate who is Mormon, as Romney is, 35 percent said they would be less likely and 3 percent said they would be more likely. Sixty-one percent said it would make no difference."

Romney's Aspirations Take a Hit?

2006-12-13T07:48:00.000-07:00

Romney's Aspirations Take a Hit?: "Barbara Comstock, a senior advisor to Romney's Commonwealth political Action Committee defended Romney saying 'In 2003, when activist judges on the Supreme Court of Massachusetts redefined marriage by court order, Governor Romney stood up and defended traditional marriage. Governor Romney opposes same-sex marriage, but he also opposes unjust discrimination against anyone.' "

Latter-day Saints: A look at the Mormon church

2006-12-13T07:47:00.000-07:00

BostonHerald.com - National Politics: Latter-day Saints: A look at the Mormon church:
"Q: What moral values does the church embrace?

A: Mormons emphasize hard work, volunteerism, education and chastity; they oppose abortion, gay relationships, gambling and pornography. Family is especially important to Mormons, rooted in their belief that marriage and family relationships among the faithful are 'sealed' and may continue through eternity. As just one example of this emphasis, the church directs members to reserve Mondays for what they call Family Home Evening, when families gather on their own for prayer and instruction, followed by fun activities. "

Romney's Record on Gay Rights Questioned

2006-12-12T20:01:00.000-07:00

Romney's Record on Gay Rights Questioned | World Latest | Guardian Unlimited:
"The statement said the governor has been a ``champion of traditional marriage.''

At a gathering of San Diego County Republicans on Monday night, Romney brushed aside a question from The Associated Press. ``Thanks, I have other people to talk to right now,'' he said."

Mitt Romney and gay rights

2006-12-12T19:59:00.000-07:00

Power Line: Mitt Romney and gay rights:
"The article goes on to show that as governor Romney has appointed openly gay individuals to state office, has continued to speak generally in favor of defending civil rights without regard to sexual preference, and has continued to fund (though at a very modest level) the pre-existing Governor's Commission on Gay and Lesbian Youth. I don't see anything here that Romney should be embarrassed about."

Romney is fast rising as a serious contender

2006-12-12T05:01:00.000-07:00

Romney is fast rising as a serious contender - The Boston Globe:
"Until very recently, Governor Mitt Romney has been a long shot preparing for a race -- the Republican presidential primaries -- that almost always goes to the favorite."

Blue Bayou: Old Romney vs. new Romney (blog)

2006-12-11T20:51:00.000-07:00

Blue Bayou: Old Romney vs. new Romney:
"As Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney works on pumping up his right-wing social conservative credentials as part of his presidential campaign, he faces an interesting issue: the statements of Mitt Romney, candidate for US Senate, in 1994. As Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney works on pumping up his right-wing social conservative credentials as part of his presidential campaign, he faces an interesting issue: the statements of Mitt Romney, candidate for US Senate, in 1994. "

Candidates Seem to Be Emulating Reagan

2006-12-11T05:16:00.000-07:00

Candidates Seem to Be Emulating Reagan - washingtonpost.com:
"In these early days of the 2008 presidential campaign, when politicians still are exploring the notion of a run and trying to fill out their political profiles, candidates are trying to glom on to a little of the luster from the Reagan glory days."

2008 hopefuls woo Bush clan donors, aides

2006-12-11T05:14:00.000-07:00

2008 hopefuls woo Bush clan donors, aides - Los Angeles Times:
"The presentation was produced by one of the governor's longtime advisors, Sally Bradshaw, who is now a Romney strategist. Bradshaw is so close to Jeb Bush that it is unlikely she would work for any of the 2008 candidates without his blessing. In an interview, Bradshaw said that Jeb Bush only 'encouraged me' to meet with Romney, insisting that the Florida governor is not trying to indicate a favorite in the race."

Mister PowerPoint Goes to Washington

2006-12-11T05:12:00.000-07:00

Mister PowerPoint Goes to Washington — American.com:
"Mitt Romney, Massachusetts governor and Olympics savior, aspires to the White House. What does his background as a Bain consultant and hyper-successful venture capitalist tell us about how he’ll perform?"

Romney reaching to right

2006-12-10T09:15:00.000-07:00

Romney reaching to right - A Concord Monitor Article - Your News Source - Concord NH 03301:
"The Mitt Romney who twice ran for statewide office in Massachusetts is a different politician from the Romney who will likely court New Hampshire voters in the 2008 Republican presidential primary."

A dream come true

2006-12-10T07:41:00.000-07:00

Townhall.com::A dream come true::By Kathryn Jean Lopez:
"Back in 1963 on the Washington Mall, he proclaimed his dream, 'deeply rooted in the American dream.' He had a 'dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: 'We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal.''"

Diverse '08 presidential field

2006-12-10T07:38:00.000-07:00

Diverse '08 presidential field | www.azstarnet.com :
"And on the GOP side, with an equal number of possible candidates, the hard-charging challenger is a Mormon, the front-runners are more moderate than the average Republican and the only Southerner of any stature is a Pennsylvania-born former House speaker who resigned amid a swirl of controversy."

Romney charms key Bush backers

2006-12-10T07:35:00.000-07:00

Salt Lake Tribune - Romney charms key Bush backers:
"Among the 160 or so wealthy Republicans the Romney campaign had invited for the weekend were a particularly important group of potential supporters - the 40 or so men and women who were ''Rangers'' or ''Pioneers'' in the 2000 and 2004 campaigns of President Bush. "

Romney’s Gay Rights Stance Draws Ire

2006-12-09T12:13:00.000-07:00

Romney’s Gay Rights Stance Draws Ire - New York Times:
"Mr. Romney’s standing among conservatives is being hurt by a letter he sent to the Log Cabin Club of Massachusetts saying that he would be a stronger advocate for gay rights than Senator Edward M. Kennedy, his opponent in a Senate race, in a position that stands in contrast to his current role as a champion of a state constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage.

"

Romney gets snickers, raves from Beijing college students

2006-12-08T21:26:00.000-07:00

Local News Updates - Romney gets snickers, raves from Beijing college students - The Boston Globe:
"Governor Mitt Romney’s weeklong trip to Asia took him to the renowned Tsinghua University here yesterday, where he fielded questions from a sometimes skeptical audience of students and sketched out his views on China’s emergence as a world power."

Romney's '94 olive branch to gays may haunt him

2006-12-08T08:32:00.000-07:00

deseretnews.com | Romney's '94 olive branch to gays may haunt him:
"Asked about Romney's remarks in 1994, his communications director, Eric Fehrnstrom, said in an e-mail statement: 'Governor Romney believes Americans should be respectful of all people. What he opposes are the efforts by activist judges who seek to redefine the longstanding institution of marriage being between a man and a woman.'"

Romney, Not McCain, Gains Support of Republican Traditionalists

2006-12-08T07:12:00.000-07:00

Bloomberg.com: Worldwide: Romney, Not McCain, Gains Support of Republican Traditionalists
:
"New Hampshire activist Bruce Keough is signing up with Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney's burgeoning presidential campaign for one reason: He considers Romney the opposite of John McCain. "

3 Join Romney's GOP Presidential Bid Team

2006-12-07T21:32:00.000-07:00

3 Join Romney's GOP Presidential Bid Team:
"Three big-name Florida Republicans and allies of outgoing Gov. Jeb Bush are lining up with Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney in the 2008 presidential race."

Some state GOP leaders think Mitt is it

2006-12-07T14:58:00.000-07:00

Some state GOP leaders think Mitt is it | Local News | PensacolaNewsJournal.com:
"Romney has already lured former Jeb Bush advisors Sally Bradshaw and Ann Woods Herberger to advise his likely 2008 presidential bid.

But it's unusual for high-profile political figures to commit to a candidate two years before a presidential election.Romney has already lured former Jeb Bush advisors Sally Bradshaw and Ann Woods Herberger to advise his likely 2008 presidential bid.

But it's unusual for high-profile political figures to commit to a candidate two years before a presidential election."

McCain announces support of top Utah elected officials

2006-12-07T14:57:00.000-07:00

BostonHerald.com - National Politics: McCain announces support of top Utah elected officials:
"BOSTON - A week after crashing Gov. Mitt Romney’s party at the Republican Governors Association meeting, Sen. John McCain announced Thursday he had the support of two leading Republicans in Utah - the headquarters of Romney’s Mormon church and the site of his family’s ski home. "

In a twist over knickers: Morality makes Mitt a hit with evangelicals (Column)

2006-12-07T14:32:00.000-07:00

BostonHerald.com - Columnists & Opinion: In a twist over knickers: Morality makes Mitt a hit with evangelicals:
"Unlike some all-too-devout Christians who’ve run for president (Gary Bauer, Alan Keyes), Romney doesn’t give off the “religion makes me weird” vibe. He’s articulate, faithful and personally appealing - a rare combination in political life. "

FOX News Poll: Mormonism A Negative Affiliation To Voters - Polls

2006-12-07T14:21:00.000-07:00

FOXNews.com - FOX News Poll: Mormonism A Negative Affiliation To Voters - Polls | AP Polls | Gallup Poll | Opinion Polls:
"'A lot of this is cultural-not actually based on any religious test,' comments Opinion Dynamics Chairman John Gorman. 'The personality and presentation of the candidate matter more than any specific because, in the end, the specific question is: will this person consider my needs or put their own group forward?'"

Massachusetts governor in S. Korea

2006-12-07T09:15:00.000-07:00

YONHAP NEWS - Massachusetts governor in S. Korea:
"Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, a Republican considering a presidential bid, met with South Korea's Vice Foreign Minister Cho Jung-pyo in Seoul on Thursday. "

Mormon Mitt Romney's Potential as President

2006-12-06T19:42:00.000-07:00

NPR : Mormon Mitt Romney's Potential as President:
"Massachussetts governor Mitt Romney is everything the Republican Party could want as its presidential candidate in 2008: pro-life, anti-gun control, pro-business, anti-gay marriage, and strong on national defense. He also has a sterling reputation as a businessman and devoted family man."

Evangelicals for Mitt: National Review: Evangelicals for Romney?

2006-12-06T16:56:00.000-07:00

Evangelicals for Mitt: National Review: Evangelicals for Romney?:
"Earlier this year, Mitt Romney, the undeclared GOP presidential candidate, came to the attention of Mark DeMoss, a public-relations specialist in Atlanta. “I had not met him, but his stand on traditional marriage as governor of Massachusetts convinced me that he’s a real leader,” says DeMoss. “Evangelical voters can put their faith in him.”"

A Primer on the 2008 GOP Candidates

2006-12-06T15:45:00.001-07:00

A Primer on the 2008 GOP Candidates by John Hawkins:
"Mitt Romney is an interesting character. Although he is the outgoing governor of the very liberal state of Massachusetts and was named as one of the Top 10 RINOs (Republicans in Name Only) less than a year ago in HUMAN EVENTS, he's not as liberal as he might appear at first glance."

A Primer on the 2008 GOP Candidates

2006-12-06T15:45:00.000-07:00

GET OF THE WEEK: Matt Rhoades (blog)

2006-12-05T18:28:00.000-07:00

Hotline On Call: GET OF THE WEEK: Matt Rhoades:
"You won't see Rhoades quoted by name, and he rarely talks to the press. But Republican insiders say he has a preternatural understanding of news cycles and the folkways of the establishment (and non-establishment) media. And as Cillizza reports, he has a direct line to Matt Drudge, who can still (despite some slippage) drive network news coverage. Finally, he's one of the best opposition researchers in the business. "

Can a Mormon Be Majority Leader?

2006-12-05T07:22:00.000-07:00

Can a Mormon Be Majority Leader? by Lisa De Pasquale - Human Events:
"The mainstream media set the agenda and by default people think the issues they see on magazine covers and on the evening news are the most important. When Time magazine asks, “Can a Mormon be President?” it puts the issue center stage, implying that a person’s religion can hinder his presidency. In its cover story on Barack Obama they didn’t ask “Can a Former Muslim be President?” "

2008 GOP field disappoints some conservatives

2006-12-05T05:40:00.000-07:00

2008 GOP field disappoints some conservatives - Politics - MSNBC.com:
"Romney now calls himself pro-life and favors leaving it up to the states to determine the legality of abortion. He also now opposes embryonic stem cell research and has asked his state's highest court to force an anti-gay marriage constitutional amendment onto the ballot in 2008. And in May, Giuliani stumped for former Christian Coalition honcho Ralph Reed, who lost his bid to be Georgia's lieutenant governor due in part to his ties to convicted GOP lobbyist Jack Abramoff. "

Romney assembles wide-ranging team

2006-12-04T08:09:00.000-07:00

Salt Lake Tribune - Romney assembles wide-ranging team:
"The Republican is expected to announce in January he will run for the White House, and he's already assembling a far-flung team. The list includes some big names who combined have decades of experience running presidential and other high-profile political races. "

Romney looks to boost résumé with Asia trip

2006-12-03T11:20:00.000-07:00

Romney looks to boost résumé with Asia trip - The Boston Globe:
"Governor Mitt Romney, looking to bolster his foreign policy experience as he prepares for a 2008 presidential run, is to embark tomorrow on a week long trip to Asia, making stops in Japan, China, and the Korean Peninsula, where he is to tour the demilitarized zone that separates North and South Korea."

‘Illegals’ reinvented around Globe (Column)

2006-12-03T11:03:00.000-07:00

BostonHerald.com - Herald Columnists: ‘Illegals’ reinvented around Globe:
"How do you turn a noble undocumented worker into a sinister, conniving illegal immigrant?

You do it by hiring him to cut the lawn at Gov. Mitt Romney’s house, or at least that’s how the bow-tied bumkissers at The Boston Globe pulled it off."

Does Mormon Mitt have a prayer?

2006-12-03T11:02:00.000-07:00

BostonHerald.com - National Politics: Does Mormon Mitt have a prayer?:
"Gov. Mitt Romney’s Mormonism and how voters might react to the church’s beliefs became national news this week as a 2008 campaign issue, thanks to stories in Time magazine, Slate and the Dallas Morning News. "

Mormon political clout grows

2006-12-02T05:39:00.000-07:00

Mormon political clout grows - USATODAY.com:
"When Sen. Harry Reid becomes Senate majority leader next year, he will be the most powerful Mormon in Washington.

But that reign could be short-lived if Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney makes a bid for the presidency in 2008 and wins. Romney is considering a run in what is expected to be a wide-open field."

The Bottom of the Barrel

2006-12-01T12:19:00.000-07:00

FOXNews.com - The Bottom of the Barrel - FOX Fan:
"Wavering? No. But out right reversing, yes. Romney seems to be a chameleon who adjusts his positions to suit the need of his environment. When he was running in a liberal state against the most liberal member of the Senate, he talked liberal. But now that he wants to win a Republican primary with a conservative base, he speaks their language."

Jonathan Martin on Republican Governor's Association & 2008 on National Review Online

2006-12-01T07:27:00.000-07:00

Jonathan Martin on Republican Governor's Association & 2008 on National Review Online:
"Refusing to cede the spotlight to his early rival, McCain swooped into south Florida for a full slate of his own engagements. Romney backers scoffed at the attempt to steal their thunder. “It was a cheap C.R. move,” one prominent supporter of Romney sniffed, likening the senator’s appearance to College Republican tactics. "

As Governors Meet, McCain Comes Calling

2006-12-01T05:55:00.000-07:00

As Governors Meet, McCain Comes Calling - New York Times:
"Mr. Romney has hoped, like George W. Bush in 2000 and Bob Dole in 1996, to use the overwhelming support of the Republican governors as a springboard to the presidential nomination. Mr. McCain served notice with his incursion that Mr. Romney could not take them for granted."

Mormon for president in 2008? (Vote)

2006-11-30T16:57:00.000-07:00

Mormon for president in 2008? - Tucker - MSNBC.com:
"While Barack Obama may have to overcome his race to become president, intriguing potential Republican candidate Mitt Romney may have to overcome his religion. MSNBC’s Tucker Carlson discusses with Michael Graham, host of 'The Natural Truth' radio show in Boston."

GOP strategists: Impact of Romney's Mormonism exaggerated

2006-11-30T12:58:00.000-07:00

Salt Lake Tribune - GOP strategists: Impact of Romney's Mormonism exaggerated:
"'The Mormon issue is way overstated,' said Mark McKinnon, a former chief media adviser to President Bush's 2004 campaign and a strategist now aligned with Arizona Sen. John McCain. 'In the end, it won't be much of an issue.' The comment was echoed by David Kensinger, a strategist for GOP Kansas Sen. Sam Brownback, who is expected to announce his White House bid soon. 'The country will be ready for this [a Mormon president] at some point,' he said. "

Mitt Romney, and whether a Mormon can win the hearts of Southern Baptists, Methodists

2006-11-30T07:28:00.000-07:00

Mitt Romney, and whether a Mormon can win the hearts of Southern Baptists, Methodists | Political Insider | ajc.com:
"That said, a prominent figure in Atlanta area church circles has stepped up to help bridge the gap between Romney and the GOP’s evangelical base.
Mark DeMoss is a Duluth-based public relations consultant who specializes in Christian ministries. Clients include both Billy Graham and his son, Franklin."

Romney 'courting' at Rankin GOP event

2006-11-29T05:41:00.000-07:00

Romney 'courting' at Rankin GOP event - The Clarion-Ledger:
"But his visit Tuesday into the deep Bible-belt South coincided with this week's Time magazine story on whether a Mormon can reach evangelical Christians, especially in the South."

Economics Experts Join Romney's PAC

2006-11-29T05:39:00.000-07:00

Economics Experts Join Romney's PAC - washingtonpost.com:
"He hasn't even formed his presidential exploratory committee, but Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney (R) has already signed up an economic brain trust to advise him, led by two former chairmen of President Bush's Council of Economic Advisers."

Romney needs to talk about his Mormonism—now.

2006-11-28T19:25:00.000-07:00

Romney needs to talk about his Mormonism—now. - By John Dickerson - Slate Magazine:
"When they're talking about your bloomers, it's time to clear a few things up. It's not that Romney should come clean about his clean laundry—he should please stay quiet about that—but now is the time to improve on his current approach, which has largely been to make fun of misconceptions about Mormonism. ('Take my wives, please' kinds of jokes.) If he doesn't define what his religion means to him, others will do it for him—focusing on the most loopy aspects. Constant questions and endless press coverage will get in the way of his larger task of pitching himself as the only 'true conservative' in the GOP race."

Evangelical pundit Hewitt touts value of blogs, Mitt Romney

2006-11-28T19:20:00.000-07:00

Evangelical pundit Hewitt touts value of blogs, Mitt Romney:
"'Many in this room in the next year to year-and-a-half will be asked by students and the media, 'What do you think about Mitt Romney?'' he said, adding that once 'secular absolutists' get them to talk about theology, they open themselves to attack. 'If we begin to ask Mitt Romney about which [Morman] practices and doctrines he subscribes to, it cannot be capped. It will not be stopped.'"

The Media Obsession (Blog)

2006-11-27T09:13:00.000-07:00

Evangelicals for Mitt: THE MEDIA OBSESSION:
"Does this make sense? Why are we not seeing similar questions and demands directed at Democratic supporters of Harry Reid? After all, as the single-most politically powerful Mormon in the history of the United States (instead of a presidential candidate currently trailing in the polls to better-known Republicans), shouldn't he be getting all the religious scrutiny right now? Why doesn't the media obsess over his faith? Does this make sense? Why are we not seeing similar questions and demands directed at Democratic supporters of Harry Reid? After all, as the single-most politically powerful Mormon in the history of the United States (instead of a presidential candidate currently trailing in the polls to better-known Republicans), shouldn't he be getting all the religious scrutiny right now? Why doesn't the media obsess over his faith? "

Can a Mormon be President?

2006-11-26T20:50:00.000-07:00

TIME.com: Can a Mormon be President? -- Dec. 4, 2006 -- Page 1: "But church officials are wary of the impact Romney's candidacy could have on them--and on the portrayal of their faith. Yes, his campaign will bring attention and credibility to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), as the Mormons are formally known, and give them a chance to demystify their theology and customs."

Romney Leaving Mass. With Mixed Record

2006-11-26T08:33:00.000-07:00

Romney Leaving Mass. With Mixed Record - washingtonpost.com:
"While he can point to a major policy success in health care, his relationship with the Democratic-controlled legislature that made it possible is in tatters. His efforts to challenge the Democrats and promote Republican candidates for the legislature failed. His partner in the statehouse, Lt. Gov. Kerry Healey, lost a bid to succeed him. And Romney is leaving office with the state GOP weaker than when he arrived."

The Taboo Pew (Opinion)

2006-11-26T08:29:00.000-07:00

Dallas Morning News | News for Dallas, Texas | Opinion: The Taboo Pew:
"Mr. Romney, who has balanced the Massachusetts budget, reformed health care and stuck to his conservative social beliefs, is aware of this perception. Over the last few months, he has made several efforts to meet with conservative Christians and convince them that he shares their most sacred moral and social positions – such as opposition to abortion and gay marriage – no matter his theology. As a result, one can detect a mild surge of support on sites like EvangelicalsForMitt.com."

The Mormon who might just go all the way

2006-11-25T19:47:00.000-07:00

The Mormon who might just go all the way - Sunday Times - Times Online:
"Romney has made enormous strides in persuading them that on their key issues — abortion, marriage, gays, stem cells — he is indeed one of them. But the worry remains that the base won’t really turn out for a Mormon. And so the religious right, bereft of alternatives, may find itself hoist on its own theocratic petard. Maybe, eventually, they will learn to moderate. But only, I suspect, if the sole alternative is President Hillary Clinton.

And so Romney’s deepest asset may well become finding the right opponent. And that, paradoxically, is up to the Democrats."

Romney reaches for Reagan touch

2006-11-25T10:59:00.000-07:00

Romney reaches for Reagan touch - The Boston Globe:
"Romney's repeated references to the nation's 40th president in two weeks illustrate how the governor, as he builds toward a 2008 presidential bid, is increasingly trying to cast himself in the Reagan mold -- as a patriotic, small-government conservative from outside the Beltway who's bent on repelling taxes, moral relativism, and foreign threats."

There's Something About Romney

2006-11-22T22:54:00.000-07:00

Hugh Hewitt - There's Something About Romney: "Romney has won the hearts of people like Kathryn Lopez because he is a singularly impressive individual. Almost all politicians can talk the proverbial buffalo off the proverbial nickel; as a class, politicians excel at delivering lengthy extemporaneous speeches that offer virtually nothing in terms of substantive content. After a while, you discover that the reason our politicians shy away from substantive content is that they often don’t know what they’re talking about and thus must do so out of necessity."

Is America ready for a Mormon president?

2006-11-22T10:09:00.000-07:00

Is America ready for a Mormon president? | US News | Reuters.com:
"'A lot of them find him an attractive candidate. But a lot of them can't get past the whole Mormonism aspect of his faith, which puts him in a difficult position,' Spiliotes said."

Romney Gets It

2006-11-21T22:16:00.000-07:00

The Claremont Institute: The Remedy - Romney Gets It:
"At Claremont we study statesmanship. One of the main elements of statesmanship in our republic is teaching. Great American statesman must educate the citizenry about the nature and purpose of republican government.

I have only begun to pay close attention to the race for the 2008 Republican nomination, but so far Romney seems to be the only one who might understand that."

Romney Forges On, Heedless of GOP Losses

2006-11-21T21:32:00.000-07:00

Romney Forges On, Heedless of GOP Losses - Forbes.com:
"By almost any measure, Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney - a would-be presidential candidate - should be hanging his head right now...

Yet true to the business training that earned him hundreds of millions of dollars, Romney has a plan and he's sticking to it...

The 59-year-old former venture capitalist, who gained fame resurrecting the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics, is proceeding on a methodical course of fundraising, staff-building and outreach."

'06 Election Could Bode Well for Romney in '08

2006-11-21T21:31:00.000-07:00

'06 Election Could Bode Well for Romney in '08 - KCPW:
"'The voters indicated they wanted new faces,' says Bennett. 'Romney is a new face. McCain has been around for a quarter of a century. This may be unfair, but it's true. Romney is ten years younger than John McCain and looks 15 or 20 years younger.'"

Little-known details about Mitt Romney

2006-11-21T21:29:00.000-07:00

Little-known details about Mitt Romney:
"DETAIL YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW: His first name is Willard. He was named for his father's friend J. Willard Marriott. Mitt, his middle name, comes from a relative who played football for the Chicago Bears - Milton Romney. The governor went by 'Billy' in kindergarten."

Can Mitt win?

2006-11-21T10:48:00.000-07:00

Can Mitt win? - News - The Phoenix:
"To woo those conservatives, Romney has staked out a position in the GOP presidential field akin to that of George W. Bush, without the taint of Washington. He supports the Iraq war as a necessary part of the war on Islamist-fueled terror. He has embraced social conservative causes by shifting to a strict pro-life position, denouncing stem-cell research, and, of course, bashing same-sex marriage. And Romney is on even steadier ground with what you might call the corporate wing of the Republican Party, which is looking for a pro-business, small-government, anti-regulation, low-tax candidate. "

On Mitt Romney’s Chances

2006-11-21T10:17:00.000-07:00

The Corner on National Review Online - On Mitt Romney’s Chances:
"FRED BARNES: You know, I think [his religion] is less of a problem than people think. You know, he spent a lot of time talking to people like Richard Land of the Southern Baptists Convention and others who . . . had said this, we're not electing a theologian-in-chief, we're electing a commander-in-chief. An while an earlier generation of Christians might have said, 'Look, I'm not going to vote for a Mormon,' I think now most of them will just set aside — are willing to set aside his faith."

Romney: ‘I’m a conservative Republican’

2006-11-21T10:14:00.000-07:00

Romney: ‘I’m a conservative Republican’ - Examiner.com:
"“That’s his position, and in my opinion, it’s disingenuous,” he said. “Look, if somebody says they’re in favor of gay marriage, I respect that view. If someone says — like I do — that I oppose same–sex marriage, I respect that view. But those who try and pretend to have it both ways, I find it to be disingenuous.”"

Mitt Romney for President: Part II, the Man (Blog)

2006-11-21T10:10:00.000-07:00

Sound Politics: Mitt Romney for President: Part II, the Man:
"Romney's resume is more diverse than Giuliani's: successful businessman, mega-project troubleshooter, and innovative Governor. In fact, if one wants to avoid taking the time to read up on Romney, just watch the video at the link above. Impressive stuff as far as political videos go, and which drew praise from NRO's The Corner."