For some, a candidate’s religion means a lot

Commentary writer Cal Thomas’ piece “GOP should cut the God talk” prompted a discussion among readers (Opinion, Tuesday).

Cal Thomas is off the mark. He is entitled to his opinion. However, so is anyone who wants to talk about his or her belief in God! Many American voters want to know how candidates feel about God.

As an American voter, I am more interested in men or women who are not afraid to discuss their beliefs in public no matter what those beliefs are.

Please don’t be politically correct. Americans have fought and bled to be able to speak their minds on any subject. Give me a leader who has strong beliefs, who stands behind those beliefs. That is what makes a leader worth following!

Ron Williams

Some seem to be missing the point Thomas is making, which is not that politicians shouldn’t be religious. He’s saying that talking about their religion is not information that the voters need to make an informed decision about their qualifications for elected office.

And, in my view, he’s right, especially given that our Constitution specifically forbids a religious test for office.

Lucius Whitman

Politicians talking about faith is disingenuous pandering, at best, to gain votes. I respect our differences in the ways that we believe and worship, and that should be good enough.

I challenge anyone to tell me how a Bible passage can get a bill through Congress that helps people. Good luck with that.

Michael Anthony Shea