Religion & Politics

In a recent opinion article from USA Today, Mitt Romney's religious affiliation is critiqued. As a prospective presidential candidate, political pundits have begun to argue that Americans will fear a Mormon candidate. Authors David E. Campbell and J. Quin Monson state,

"Should Romney fear how some Americans will react to his religion? Unfortunately, recent polls say yes. But just like another Massachusetts politician who faced questions about his religion, namely John F. Kennedy, Romney can, and should, tackle uneasiness about his religion head-on — sooner rather than later."

Because I was raised in a Catholic family, I am hesitant to directly compare Romney to Kennedy. Would I vote for a Mormon presidential candidate? Most likely not. However, this has nothing to do with the ethical nature of this subject.

So, personal opinions aside, allowing a candidate's religion to define him (or her) is an unethical practice. Though one's religion is likely to affect personal beliefs and behavior, it is the civil duty of every citizen to hear Romney profess his identity. I think the pundits need to take a chill pill and allow Romney to reveal his own identity as a presidential candidate. He just officially announced his plans to run in the 2008 election earlier this month, so give the guy a break!