Observers offer insight into Romney's speech

— -- Republican Mitt Romney, whose Mormon faith has become an issue in the presidential campaign, delivers a speech Thursday in Texas titled "Faith in America." Romney's situation is similar to what John F. Kennedy, a Roman Catholic, faced during the 1960 race. USA TODAY's David Jackson talked to a variety of people who have confronted the intersection of religion and politics. Here's what they said about the challenges facing the former Massachusetts governor:

Ted Sorensen

Background:Speechwriter for John F. Kennedy, co-wrote Kennedy's speech outlining his belief in a separation of church and state

Quote:"Romney could benefit if he said, 'I'm not the Mormon candidate for president, I'm a candidate for president who happens to have been born a Mormon.' Romney should say he is not bound by every statement or issue adopted by some Mormon group, conference, or leader."

Jay Sekulow

Background:Noted Christian rights lawyer who has endorsed Romney

Quote:"This speech is being given to the American people. It is not targeting evangelicals. … He needs to connect the role of faith and the role of government and politics. … People of faith have served our country. While we don't all share the same theology, faith does matter."

Doug Wead

Background:Adviser to Republicans on religious issues, including President Bush and his father; has donated to Romney's bid

Quote:"You can't win the Republican nomination without a substantial piece of the evangelical movement. … The hope will be that people see him as a leader and he won't back down from what he believes. … I think it represents a real desperate moment in the campaign — a realization that it's slipping from him because of his religion."

Annie Laurie Gaylor

Background:Co-president of the Freedom From Religion Foundation, the nation's largest association of agnostics and atheists

Quote:"He's going to try to place himself in the camp of the typical Christian fundamentalist. That's who he needs to vote for him."