AL, MS Voters Guided By Religion Prefer Santorum

WASHINGTON (AP) — Early results from exit polls of Alabama and Mississippi voters show Rick Santorum leading among evangelical and born-again Christians saying a candidate’s religious beliefs deeply affected their choice. Mitt Romney and Newt Gingrich are faring better with such voters who said religion mattered less.

Santorum and Gingrich are running well among the strongest conservatives as both states hold contests for the Republican presidential nomination. Romney is doing strongly among more moderate voters and those most focused on the economy.

Romney is also attracting those seeking a candidate who can oust President Barack Obama in this fall’s election. Gingrich is doing well with voters looking for a contender with the proper experience, while Santorum is popular with many eager for a candidate who is a true conservative and with strong moral character.