LAS VEGAS (AP) - Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney says voters should not choose their president based on the candidate's religious beliefs or the place where they worship.

Romney was responding Tuesday to recent comments made by Robert Jeffress, the pastor of First Baptist Church of Dallas and a supporter of Governor Rick Perry.  Jeffress called Mormonism a cult. Romney is Mormon.

Romney says he was troubled that the minister would imply that people should choose a president based on the candidate's religion. He says it runs counter to the country's principles.

Perry reiterated that he did not agree with Jeffress's remarks. Jeffress introduced Perry at a recent speech and asserted that Romney isn't a Christian and Mormonism is a cult.

Asked about the comments, Romney said he's heard worse, "so I'm not going to lose sleep over that."

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