Feb. 8, 1962 - George Romney (pictured with his wife Lenore) began a 24-hour fast today as he sought to decide whether to become a candidate for the Republican nomination for Governor of Michigan. “My final step in making such an important decision is to seek Divine guidance,” he said. “I consider this a personal matter, but it is true that I’ve begun a fast.” The president of the American Motors Corporation is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormon). According to a spokesman for the church, Mormons who require Divine guidance usually fast “to put ourselves better in tune and to obtain a closer physical relationship with Divine Providence.” Leading Republicans and close business associates believed there was little doubt that Mr. Romney would announce his candidacy Saturday. His entry is expected to touch off one of the most exciting Michigan campaigns in many years. Moreover, the campaign will have strong national overtones because Mr. Romney is being discussed widely as a dark horse for the Presidential nomination in 1964.
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