Does a candidate's personal life and morals affect your vote?

I look at it this way. Suppose I am a crook who has amassed wealth by cheating people. Would I put my loot in an honest Institution or trust it with other crooks?

What ever I am in personal life, for the sake of a civilised society I would be more inclined to put faith in someone who is better than me.

Well, a candidate's honesty matters, and some of morality is honesty. Then there's hypocrisy -- like Newt Gingrich appealing to the Christian right while having an extramarital affair. That's not very appealing. But I absolutely don't care whether the candidate has the `right' religious belief or whether his sexual orientation is like mine.

I look mainly at accomplishments and experience. This year, I find that combination in Democrat Bill Richardson, and Republican Mitt Romney. Unfortunately for Romney, I don't like his policy orientation.

Definately. How can a candidate be fit for staying faithful and loyal to their voters, political party & country if they can't be towards their spouse? You are not voting for a robot but a human being, therefore every area of their lives are important to consider. Also I think morals are too underrated in today's society so it would be great if their were politicians/leaders who would stand up for morality, whilst backing up their policies by their lifestyles. We already have enough hypocrites in power.

Generally, no. The exceptions are issues that would call into question the candidates honesty and activities that directly contradict their public stances on the issues. We elect candidates, not clergymen. As long as he/she performs the duties of the office as directed by their constituents, whatever they do in their private lives is irrelevant.

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Not unless it gets really out of hand. We are all human and we are going to make mistakes in our personal and professional lives. So, I would say that I try to look over the small things.

Of course. Only a fool would think the character of the leader isnt important.

Yes ,if a man can't control his home ,how can he run my world.

Hilary was the president when Bill was in office.She was running the show then.That is why Bill had so much time on his hands.

Next year is not looking to good.

A woman who can't control her man.

A Muslim,who claims to be a christian.

God help us all.<><

Absolutely! If he or she is known to be immoral by reputation, then he or she cannot possibly have the kind of principled character of a person I would want to represent me!

Yes, a liar or cheat in 1 area will eventually lie and cheat in all areas of their lives.

yes, for example, if a person's personal life has involved oil companies or defense contractors, he might just be willing to sell out out his country to support his business buddies.