"In America then, the family is a vital economic unit, the foundation of the nation, and it's the strength of this nation's families that ultimately determines America's strength in the family of nations. That's why I believe that the most important work that goes on in America today for the future of this great land is the work that goes on within the four walls of the American home."I will be a pro-life president," Romney vowed. He set out numerous policy initiatives ranging from family impact statement for new government programs to a federal marriage amendment to a federal tax credit to help defray the cost of home schooling expenses.
Romney also managed a joke about his Morman faith. "I understand that some people think that they couldn't support someone of my faith," he said, "But I think that's just because they've listened to Harry Reid." [prepared remarks]
Romney has attracted considerable support from evangelicals and pro-life activists. In June his campaign announced its National Faith and Values Steering Committee chaired by Jay Sekulow (chief counsel for the American Center for Law and Justice). Sekulow introduced Romney before his speech. Another Romney supporter, Rev. Lou Sheldon, founder and chairman of the Traditional Values Coalition, was in evidence during the gathering. Coinciding with Romney's speech today, the campaign announced endorsements of Dr. John Willkie, who served for 10 years as president of the National Right To Life Committee and helped found the organization, and of Dr. Don Wilton, senior pastor at the First Baptist Church of Spartanburg, and the immediate past president of the South Carolina Baptist Convention. Earlier this week Bob Jones III, chancellor of Bob Jones University, announced his support for Romney.
