Obama Leaves 'God' Out of Thanksgiving Address, Draws Criticism From Conservatives
U.S. President Barack Obama has been coming under fire for not thanking God in his Thanksgiving Day address to the nation.
"As Americans, each of us has our own list of things and people to be thankful for," said Obama. "But there are some blessings we all share. We're especially grateful for the men and women who defend our country overseas. To all the service members eating Thanksgiving dinner far from your families, the American people are thinking of you today."
The president also took the time to express his gratitude for those serving in soup kitchens and shelters, the fact that his daughters are able to grow up in a country of endless freedoms and the opportunity he has been given to lead the country.
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However, the noticeably absent mention of God in the speech is eliciting some major criticism from conservative pundits.
"In the text of his speech, he referred to Thanksgiving as a "celebration of community," wrote columnist Sherman Frederick for the Las Vegas Review Journal. "Holy cow! Is that one screwed up view or what? Somebody ought to remind Obama (and his speechwriter) that when Americans sit down around a meal today and give thanks, they give thanks to God."
In addition, Fox News Radio host Todd Starnes was among those who blasted the president for failing to mention God.
"His remarks were void of any religious references, although Thanksgiving is a holiday traditionally steeped in giving thanks and praise to God," Starnes wrote. "The president said his family was 'reflecting on how truly lucky we truly are'. For many Americans, though, Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on how blessed and thankful they are."
Conservative commentator Ben Shapiro tweeted, "Unreal that Obama doesn't mention God in Thanksgiving message. Militant atheist. To whom does he think we are giving thanks?"
