Romney seeks acceptance in South

The only southern states he has won are Virginia, where Texas Congressman Ron Paul was only other candidate on the ballot, and Florida where his campaign outspent rivals on ads.  

"I realize it's a bit of an away game," Romney told Birmingham radio state WAPI on Thursday, referring to his chances in the South.  

His troubles in the South reflect lingering suspicions about the depth of his conservative views. As a former governor of a heavily Democratic state he is seen as more of a moderate.  

His Mormon faith is also seen as a factor in the Bible Belt.

"I think religion should have no part in today's politics, but it does," said Cheryl Patton, who attended Romney's Jackson event and said she likes Romney's business experience and family values. "He seems mellow and kind."  

Bob Hardin, also at the Jackson event, thinks Romney is the best Republican to take the fight against Obama, but believes his vast wealth may also be a factor.  

"Unfortunately he carries with him the baggage of success, which doesn't resonate with a large part of the public today. As a free market capitalist, I don't think it should, but it does," he said.