Romney: Faith Won't Sway Me, Nor Should It Voters

But does Romney want to have it both ways and thus be judged on the values of his faith?

Romney conspicuously pointed out he believes in Jesus Christ as the son of God and the savior of mankind, as do other Christians. He then acknowledged the distinction of the Mormon faith from other Christian doctrines: "Each religion has its own unique doctrines and history. These are not a basis for criticism but rather a test of tolerance."

Romney downplayed the difference by pointing out he will need the prayers of people of all faiths to be successful as our president. He also wants the faithful of all sects to remember they share a common course. This includes the struggle with abortion, civil rights and the right to life in general.

Romney does face an actual test of his message of faith very soon at the Iowa caucus Jan. 3. The Iowa Republican Party has a large number of evangelical Christians who take part in the caucus. Romney will need them to win.

Romney faces a close contest with former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee in Iowa. Huckabee is a former Baptist minister and, according to a recent Los Angeles Times poll, has become the choice of many evangelicals. He has surged in local polls in Iowa over the last few weeks. A new national poll had Huckabee moving ahead of Romney in national polls and challenging frontrunner Rudy Giuliani.

Romney has laid his faith on the table. Now we wait for voters in primaries in Iowa and across the nation to judge whether it's an important issue in this election.

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