(1888PressRelease)
October 31, 2007 - United States of America -- "In February 2006 Mitt Romney said: " Well, I think people in this country want a person of faith to lead them as their governor, as their senator, as their president." Effectively stating that anyone who didn't have faith in their imaginary friend wasn't fit for office...."
An opening statement which may seem controversial, but this tactic is used more than some might think. Not a single presidential candidate has missed the opportunity to talk about their 'personal faith'. Many republicans are running on what could be seen as faith issues, vowing to overturn Roe vs Wade and keep marriage between one man and one woman.
So what of the atheist in America? One blogger wants an answer:
"So what is it you're hoping to achieve?"
"I want to know how politicians are going to help those without faith. It just doesn't get mentioned in a public forum. Ever. And I think the atheist community has an obligation to find out where these people stand before they're elected."
"You say the atheist community..."
"Well thats just the thing! We have the numbers, but no official organization. Our views and beliefs tend to be wide and varied, but every atheist living in the United States has a stake in how their country's run."
"And how to you intend to unite people?"
"I've asked every potential presidential candidate how they feel about this issue. I've only gotten replies from Obama and Ron Paul at the moment but my blog lists the candidates contact details. The more people write to these campaigners the more responses we're likely to receive! This is something that everyone, from all political spectrums, should get behind."
"But atheists only make up around 10% of the population."
"Thats true, but we're a voting 10%, and those numbers can still make a difference. There are many other issues to take into account when choosing a candidate, but this one is important. People like Mitt Romney appear to be alienating those without faith. You have to ask; What will happen to our secularism if they get in power?"
"Recent studies have also shown that atheists are the least trusted minority in America. Wouldn't pandering to atheist's interests lose them votes?"
"I honestly believe a lot of that comes from misconceptions. The number one question we're asked is: If you don't get your morals from God, where do you get them from? As if without the watchful eye of an eternal dictator people would just feel free to murder and pillage whenever they like. Atheists make up 0.02% of the prison population. Christians make up 75%. I mean if that doesn't say anything about moral standings I don't know what does!"
"Well thank you Godless. To find out more and join the campaign please go to: http://www.thoughts.com/godlessheathen/blog.
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