Utah senators defend Romney after Bannon attack

By CRISTIANO LIMA 12/06/2017 11:24 AM EST

Sen. Orrin Hatch blasted Steve Bannon Wednesday for accusing Mitt Romney of dodging military service by hiding behind his religion, calling the charge “disappointing and unjustified.”

“Steve Bannon’s attacks on Governor Romney and his service are disappointing and unjustified,” Hatch said in a statement. “Mitt is a close personal friend, an honest leader, a great American, and someone who has sought every opportunity possible to serve our country.”

Utah’s other senator, Mike Lee, also hammered Bannon’s Romney rebuke on Twitter Wednesday. “Mitt Romney is a good man,” Lee said. “Whether you agree or disagree with him on any matter of public policy, you can’t credibly call into question his patriotism or moral character—especially on the basis of his religious beliefs or his outstanding service as a missionary.”

Stumping for embattled Alabama Senate candidate Roy Moore at a rally Tuesday night, Bannon took aim at the former governor, claiming Romney “avoided service” by using his Mormon faith to escape the draft during the Vietnam war.

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https://www.politico.com/story/2017/12/06/mitt-romney-steve-bannon-fight-orrin-hatch-mike-lee-282111