The Rev. Franklin Graham says presidential candidate Mitt Romney is not a Christian.
Appearing on MSNBC’s Morning Joe show, Graham was asked whether Romney is a Christian.
Graham said he likes Romney, but added, “He’s a Mormon.”
When one of the hosts suggested Romney still is part of the “Judeo-Christian faith,” Graham responded: “Most Christians would not recognize Mormons as part of the Christian faith.”
“I’m just saying that most Christians would not recognize Mormonism. Of course they believe in Jesus Christ. They believe in a lot of other things, too, that we don't accept theologically.”
Graham said he would not have an issue with Romney's becoming president.
“He would be a good president if he won the nomination because I think he’s got the strength, business-wise, politics-wise. He’s sharp guy. And he's proven himself,” Graham said.
But the respected evangelist noted that former Sen. Rick Santorum is the one candidate who shares his beliefs more than the others.
“I would say on moral issues, no question, Rick Santorum,” Graham said.
“He's a very sharp guy as far as his Christian faith being more in line but all of them are when it comes to policy and running the country. You’ve got to have a person make good decisions that are best for all of us, and I think all the candidates that are running are capable men.”
Graham also praised Newt Gingrich.
“Now Newt’s been married several times. He has those issues. But he could make a good candidate. And I think Newt is a Christian. At least he told me he is.”
During his presidential bid, Romney has touted his strong religious faith in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. A devout Mormon, he served as an elder in his church and tax records show he tithes to it as well, having donated millions of dollars to the church.
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