The upcoming presidential election seems likely to be a close one. Many have questions about whether or not members of the LDS church are obligated or asked to vote for Governor Mitt Romney.
The answer is no.
There has been no pressure from church leaders to vote for Mitt Romney or support him because he is a Mormon. There has been, however, repeated encouragement to research both candidates in as much depth as possible so you are making an educated decision when November 6th rolls around.
I live in Massachusetts very near to where Mitt Romney lived during his time as governor. I have enjoyed getting to know members of the church here that have affiliations with both political parties. I am confident that among people I count as dear friends, there will be votes cast for both parties.
One of the beauties of the Latter-day Saint experience is that when you come to church you become part of a community that puts service and friendship above political preference. We will all go to the polls on November 6th, vote for our preferred candidate, and then meet on Sunday as friends and family working together to be more Christlike.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is politically neutral. One of the verses in our scripture states “…we do not believe it just to mingle religious influence with civil government” (D&C 134:9). Even though Mitt Romney is a devote Latter-day Saint, or Mormon, his plans and ideas for America are not determined or swayed by leaders of the church and church leaders would not attempt to influence him politically.
I am convinced that being a good citizen includes becoming informed on political issues and voting for the candidate you believe represents your views. I am equally convinced that being a good citizen includes accepting, serving, and loving one another, regardless of political preference. When the final vote has been taken, we should all honor the elected president, whoever it might be, and work within the means of the law to make the changes we feel are beneficial for our country to sustain the law (Article of Faith 12).
Well said, Shelly! I have never felt any pressure from anyone, Mormon or otherwise, to vote for one candidate over the other. As Americans, it is our civic duty to research the candidates and then cast our vote according to the dictates of our own conscience. And it’s my sincerest hope that everyone will do just that!
Well said Shelly, I love the fact that our Faith is based on our own agency to choose what’s best and not be told what’s best or in this case who’s best.
I think one of Mormonisms most basic beliefs is our freedom to choose. We chose to come to earth and to be able to make choices, good or bad. I think the church’s policy of remaining politically neutral stems from this.