Rev. Sharpton apologizes for remark about Romney

After a comment that presidential candidate Mitt Romney called an assault on his belief in God, the Rev. Al Sharpton has apologized to LDS church leaders and members.

In a debate on Monday, Sharpton said that “those of us who believe in God” will defeat Romney in the presidential race, the Associated Press reported. On Wednesday, Romney said Sharpton’s comment could be construed as bigoted.

During an interview with talk show host Glenn Beck on Thursday, Sharpton apologized to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

“If my words could have been construed in any way that would hurt a regular Mormon, I apologize to them,” Sharpton said on the show. “The politics with Mitt Romney is a different thing.”

Sharpton said later in the show that he had called Romney’s camp, but that was unconfirmed. Romney couldn’t be reached for comment on Friday morning.

Sharpton also told Beck he called church leaders to apologize.

Church Spokesman Scott Trotter said Sharpton called the church at approximately 10 a.m. on Thursday. Sharpton spoke with members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles — Elder Russell M. Nelson and Henry B. Eyring — and apologized for his remarks.

The church considers the matter finished.

“We appreciate his phone call, and we consider the matter closed,” Trotter said.

Sharpton also told Beck he planned to meet with church leaders. Trotter said Sharpton was in talks with church leadership to set up a meeting.

“Mr. Sharpton and church leaders are looking at possible dates for a meeting, but nothing is imminent. It won’t happen next week, but they are looking at dates,” Trotter said.