Republican official apologises for criticising Obama daughters over turkey pardoning
You might have already read about the looks of boredom displayed by Barack Obama's daughters during the odd Thanksgiving tradition that is the turkey pardoning ceremony at the White House a few days ago.
Well, a Republican official noticed too - and her comments on social media have forced her to make a humbling apology.
When Elizabeth Lauten, the communications director for Republican congressman Stephen Fincher, saw Sasha and Malia Obama during the ceremony, she was neither impressed by their demeanour nor their short skirts.
Writing in a scathing Facebook post which has since been deleted, Lauten said: "Dear Sasha and Malia, I get you're both in those awful teen years, but you're a part of the First Family, try showing a little class. At least respect the part you play.
"Then again, your father and mother don't respect their positions very much, or the nation for that matter, so I'm guessing you're coming up a little short in the 'good role model' department.
"Nevertheless, stretch yourself. Rise to the occasion. Act like being in the White House matters to you. Dress like you deserve respect, not a spot in the bar.
"And certainly don't make faces during televised, public events."
Lauten's comments on the Sasha and Malia, who are 13 and 16 respectively, soon made the rounds and predictably drew flak from the Internet.
In another Facebook post, Lauten wrote: "I reacted to an article and quickly judged the two young ladies in a way that I would never have wanted to be judged myself as a teenager.
"After many hours of prayer, talking to my parents and re-reading my words online, I can see more clearly how hurtful my words were.
"Please know that these judgmental feelings truly have no pace in my heart.
"Furthermore, I'd like to apologize to all of those who I have hurt and offended with my words, and pledge to learn and grow (and I assure you I have) from this experience."
And to think that all of this came about over a pair of white turkeys named Mac and Cheese...
Related story: Turkey pardoning ceremony at the White House bores Obama's daughters
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