Obama Links Economic Policies with Faith

The National Prayer Breakfast in Washington isn't usually a politically-charged event -- since it's hosted by lawmakers from both parties.

But President Barack Obama today told attendees that his Christian faith influences his economic policies, including his call for the wealthy to pay more in taxes, and his health care overhaul.

He said his tax policies coincide with the teaching of Jesus that "unto whom much is given, much shall be required."

Obama didn't mention Mitt Romney or the other Republican candidates. His remarks came a day after Romney created a flap by saying he's "not concerned about the very poor" or about the "very rich."

Obama said his faith also guides some of his foreign policy decisions, including supporting foreign aid or sending U.S. troops to Africa to target a violent rebel group.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)