Romney would use JFK model

Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, often questioned about how his Mormon faith would affect a potential presidential run, says he envisions mimicking John F. Kennedy and explaining his religion to the public.

Romney, a Republican, says that while his religious beliefs are integral to his life, they do not unduly influence his political judgments.

“I think if I decided to go national that there will probably be a time when people will ask questions, and it will be about my faith, and I’ll have the opportunity to talk about the role of religion in our society and in the leadership of our nation,” Romney said.

Kennedy, then a Democratic senator from Massachusetts, took the same approach in September 1960 when he was attempting to become the first Roman Catholic president.

Romney, who is not seeking re-election this fall, has said he likely will announce sometime next year whether he is running for president.