Saying that former Presidents Ronald Reagan and George Bush were converts to as well, Bopp told LifeNews.com that the pro-life community "needs to be open to those who have a sincere conversion to the pro-life cause."

"When he was Governor and scientists were attempting to persuade him to support government funding of embryonic stem cell research, they said that there was no moral issue, because they destroy the embryos after 14 days," Bopp explained. "This hit him hard, how Roe v. Wade had cheapened life, and he publicly announced that he wanted to be considered pro-life."

He said a specific life-changing experience like Romney's is "persuasive."

Bopp also indicated that Romney's subsequent actions have affirmed his newfound pro-life stance.

"He vetoed the bill on embryonic stem cell research and some other efforts to liberalize the Massachusetts abortion law," Bopp said.

Ultimately, Bopp told LifeNews.com that a frank discussion of pro-life issues persuaded him.

"I have meet with him personally, discussed these issues with him and am satisfied that his pro-life position is sincere," he concluded.

Labels: abortion, Bopp, Endorsement, Right to Life