LDS Church says it is careful to avoid crossing lines with Romney in race [View all]

[trailmonkee]

Source: The Salt Lake Tribune

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"LDS public affairs specialist" Mark Severts last month emailed dozens of southern Nevada stake presidents, each of whom oversees several LDS congregations, encouraging a get-out-the-vote drive for members and saying that those interested should contact Ron and Judy Tobler, according to Jon Ralston, an independent Nevada journalist who formerly worked for the Las Vegas Sun.

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It was unclear Monday if Severts was a church employee or volunteer. He lists his job on social media profiles as communications director for NV Energy but the faith does at times enlist local members for public relations work.

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The LDS Church on Monday dismissed concerns that it was helping Romney, reiterating its neutral stand in the race.

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That’s why it sparked concern among some when the email to local church leaders in Mormon-rich southern Nevada from Severts included a PowerPoint presentation suggested for use in Sunday worship sessions or a special event. Nevada is seen as swing state in the race between Republican Romney and Democratic President Barack Obama.

"You will note that this PowerPoint touches on both encouraging members to vote, as well as helping prepare them for difficult questions posed by their friends, work associates, neighbors, etc.," Severts wrote, according to Ralston, who first reported the message.

"Enclosed is a possible voting registration announcement that can be used or modified to meet your needs," Severts wrote. "You will note that it is formatted to be duplicated as a standard ward bulletin insert (front and back) that can be used to remind members of their responsibility and process to register to vote AND as a teaser for the type of responses to tough questions they can get answered from Mormonism 101."


Read more: http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/politics/54868744-90/church-lds-romney-members.html.csp

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I always feel a little uncomfortable bringing up the LDS aspect of the race... but considering what went on in 08' with evangelical churches crossing the line, as well as the whole Prop 8 thing... I think it is very appropriate to shed some light on what is happening in Utah.