A Christian missionary running for governor of Colorado has faced questions over claims that he helped people suffering from demonic oppression through prayer.

Victor Marx, a former US Marine and founder of All Things Possible Ministries, has previously said that he has prayed for hundreds of people whom he believes were experiencing demonic influences.

Marx has sometimes carried out these prayers remotely, including over the telephone.

But although he does not favour the term "exorcism", speaking to The Times, the 61-year-old says he believes prayer has freed people from spiritual oppression through Jesus Christ.

He described the practice to the news outlet as "supernatural in a natural way", explaining that sessions can last between 10 and 15 minutes.

The Republican candidate has also faced scrutiny over other accounts of his past.

These include claims that he confronted Islamic State fighters while carrying out humanitarian missions in Iraq and that his stepfather forced him to kill a man when he was seven.

Marx has defended his accounts, insisting he has been truthful about his experiences.

His candidacy has divided Republicans, with congresswoman Lauren Boebert supporting him while former Colorado Republican Party chairman Dick Wadhams has publicly questioned his credibility.

Marx says his Christian faith and humanitarian work distinguish him from conventional politicians.

He told The Times: "Never have I been called in question for the work I've done ever until I got into politics."