Mormon Democrats gather for first-ever national meeting in Charlotte during DNC

Source: NBC

"People will automatically assume I support Romney," said Robert Cooper, 28, below, who belongs to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. A recent graduate from law school who lives in Washington, D.C., Cooper said he feels government should offer the kind of safety net that members of his church enjoy.



"I consider myself a centrist, but am more comfortable in the Democratic party. I feel there's a big-tent approach, helping those who are disadvantaged. If you look at economics, Mormons take good care of themselves. We give 10 percent of our income to the church, in addition to a monthly donation. So a lot of Mormons say that's not the role of government, but not everyone has that support structure. That's one of the roles of government, to help those who don't have that support structure. A lot of people don't have what we have."

-snip-



"My faith is the reason why I'm a Democrat," said Kaitlyn Janis, above, of South Jordan, Utah, adding "Christ is the example we follow. The Democratic party embraces values I try to emulate: charity, caring for poor and needy, equal opportunities for education. Health care is a big one, ensuring that everyone can live a good life."

Only 17 percent of Mormons are Democrats, according to Justin Daniels, a delegate from Utah. Janis said: "We are definitely few and far between. It's cool that Romney's in this high position and bringing attention to our church. But I don't share his ideals for the future and for our country."



Read more: http://photoblog.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/09/04/13664528-mormon-democrats-gather-for-first-ever-national-meeting-in-charlotte-during-dnc