KENT, Wash. -- Frank Disque sits at the ballpark cheering on his son, a senior in high school. He's like most of the other doting dads but doesn't usually share the same religion.
Disque is Mormon. He's hoping this next election, Americans will leave their stereotypes about his religion behind. Today, Mormon Mit Romney officially announced his candidacy.
Some speculate fellow Mormon and former Utah governor, Jon Huntsman won't be far behind.
"I don't know if I should be excited or surprised," said Disque.
Seattle University professor Mark Markuly isn't surprised.
"The more educated leadership has been moving into low level political positions, this is just a symbol of them moving into the next stage," Markuly said.
The last time Romney ran in 2008, he battled his religion and his opponents. Frank has heard the same concerns, including, his religion is a cult or Mormons promote within.
Markuly reminds us John F. Kennedy, the first Roman Catholic president, faced the same type of criticism. Markuly calls it the fear of the religious other. He says we'll continue to see it as our culture continues to diversify.
"Because of demographics, we'll eventually see Hindus running," Markuly speculates.
He suspects the same fear will surface until we learn to reach across what he calls our religious divisions.
Disque says at the end of the day he just wants people to realize Mormons are normal, just like everybody else.
Several other Republicans have announced but experts are calling this a wide open race for the GOP at this point.
To add a comment, please register or login.