AOL Poll : Does the religion of the candidate mater

[biscotti]

Democrat Poised to Become First Muslim in Congress

Though Keith Ellison, right, usually mentions his faith on the campaign trail only when asked, his candidacy has amounted to a political awakening among Muslims tired of being vilified since the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

Is a candidate's religion a factor for you when you vote?
Yes 54%
No 46%
Total Votes: 65,356
http://articles.news.aol.com/news/_a/democrat-poised-to-become-first-muslim/20061008090109990004?ncid=NWS00010000000001

[jwirr]

1. I voted no. As a Minnesota resident I welcome him to our party.

[silverweb]

2. I used to say 'no' ....

Now I take another look at HOW religious the candidate may be based on his history.

It's not just the religion I consider -- it's how extreme the candidate's expression of that religion might be and/or how he may have pandered to religious extremists.

Personally, I prefer a mildly religious to more secular candidate, rather than one who puts religion of any sort on the front burner in his/her profile and concerns.

[LiberalFighter]

6. Absolutely... because then it colors their decisions adversely

[mrreowwr_kittty]

7. The question is open to interpretation

I'm concerned about religion for the same reason you are but a hardcore evangelical would be for different reasons.

[Blackthorn]

3. And that, ladies and gents, is what is wrong with your country.

Too many believers, not enough thinkers.

[JDPriestly]

4. The Constitution provides that there shall be no religious test

for office. I follow that. So, no.

[biscotti]

5. I thought this was an intolerant question.

Another divisive element in government that should not be at issue. What if you are atheist or agnostic? It should not matter are be part of the equation.
I voted no.

[sakabatou]

8. The choices are too extreme

There has to be more than a yes or no...