Mitt Romney: Gay Marriage Opposition 'Not A Religious Decision'

Mitt Romney claimed Thursday during an interview that his opposition to same-sex marriage has nothing to do with his religious beliefs.

"As a society, I think we're better off if we encourage the establishment of homes with a mother and a father," Romney told KETV's Rob McCartney after a speech in Omaha.

Asked if religion played into his opposition, Romney replied, "I indicated that's based entirely upon a civil understanding of the needs of a society like our own."

"So it doesn't have any weight?" McCartney asked.

"It's not a religious decision," Romney said. "It's based upon what I believe is right for the nation and the building of strong generations for our future."

The Mormon church officially condemns homosexuality, although some members of the church see that stance as beginning to soften. The church was among the most prominent supporters of California's Proposition 8, which banned gay marriage.

After President Barack Obama announced his support for same-sex marriage Wednesday, Romney reiterated his opposition, although he does support the right of gay couples to adopt children.