I find it truly amazing how easily people can be led to believe lies and I have to agree with Mike from New York that it's sad when people cannot wish each other Merry Christmas any more without others suspecting them of a hidden agenda.

We need to start thinking for ourselves and stop letting the media lead us around by the noses. Let's make our own choices so then if anyone deserves to be blamed, we can stand up and say, "I made a mistake and now I have to live with the consequences."

Common sense has truly died.

the book shelf looks like a plus sign perhaps he is a secret numerologist…… or maybe it is just a book shelf… from an Australian perspective you guys need to relax.

Dan

Using this obvious illusion of a cross to build and distort Huckabee's character is unethical. If Huckabee is a genuine ordained Baptist minister, then why is he a member of the CFR, whose goal is a New World Order? The NWO is the arm that will usher in the anti-christ.

Joe Carter, Huckabee's research director, stated Huckabee doesn't have a theology degree. (http://tinyurl.com/3bknaa)
During the YouTube debate Huckabee said, “I think I’m stronger than most people because I truly understand the nature of the war that we are in with Islamo fascism. These are people that want to kill us. It’s a theocratic war. And I don’t know if anybody fully understands that. I’m the only guy on that stage with a theology degree. I think I understand it really well.”

This information alone should raise the doubts of Christian supporters. You can't serve two gods. Isn't this a double standard? We've been fooled long enough by establishment-picked wolf candidates wearing sheep clothing.

what a joke. it was a christmas spot. one thing's clear – huckabee was the first to do it and everyone followed suit. his response to criticism seems genuine confirmed by his laughter and astonishment (check out the youtube videos) and his comments that making a politically correct mole-hill into a mountain demonstrates the a type of societal immaturity that even school children would never know how to participate in. come on, let's talk about stuff that actually effects peoples lives, 'merry christmas' or mentioning the birth of the most influential person the world has seen to date (regardless what you think about him) is simply that – mentioning his birth. goodness we're a petty people.

I want the 14 seconds of my life back. You know, the time I spent reading what passes for news here. . .

Hucabee our Christian candidate started it all and now all will follow. After all it is the festive season and religion is in the air. May Hucabee be the GOP nominee so Hillary can be President in 2009.

Go Hillary44 08!

If Huckabee had just said "Merry Christmas," he would have preempted this flap. But, his intent wasn't just to wish everyone a Merry Christmas. His intent was to single out religious conservatives and send them an exclusionary "I'm your man" message by pointing out what is obvious to them – namely that Christmas is "the celebration of the birth of Christ." That comment shows that this was not an innocent holiday greeting. It was a blantant "nudge" message. Huckabee shamelessly exploited occasion of celebration of the birth of Christ for a purely political purpose.

Why are you guys so upset about a religious man running for President? Goodness–he is not devisive. He's real. At least he's honest about his faith. If you want someone who waves his hands during every answer, then vote for Romney. Huckabee has gone out of his way to be inclusive, while being true to his faith. The strong reactions I see to Huckabees faith tell me more about you folks than it does about Huckabee.

Sometimes its better to be lucky than good..

What's the big deal?! Out of all the political holiday ads running, Mike Huckabee's and Obama's are the best. Heaven forbid, Mike Huckabee talking about celebrating Jesus's birthday and the importance of family and friends…(sarcasm). Hey dumb Americans I celebrate Christmas because I pay homage to Jesus being born, not to some fat white guy in a loud red suit claiming to have magical powers.

Stick to the issues! As a Christian, I was willing to take a closer look at this candidate.

Huckabee = High taxes, benefits for illegals, soft on criminals, no foreign affairs experience, several cover-ups, obvious bigotry of millions of people, manipulation of the legal system, constant ethics comittee reviews and violations… Need I go on?

You can wish me a Merry Christmas all you want Gov. Huckabee, I don't trust you any farther than I could throw you. You are NOT my kind of Christian, the truthful and responsible kind!!!!

NO VOTE FOR HUCKABEE!

Human nature and memory being what they are, few "Christians" managed to stay on Christ's path. In fact, the Bible states that the "path to righteousness is narrow" and few will follow it, while most will find the path to "destruction is broad and easy to follow."

Forget others, the answers are there for all to read. it's like cliff notes for life.

Someone already commented on this but it's worth repeating: The story talks about a cross in the ad as being a possible subliminal message but fails to note that to the left there is also a CHRISTmas tree in plain sight. Yes the tree has pagan roots and it's at the crux of holiday commercialism–where do the gifts go?–but it is nonetheless a religious symbol. Get on the ball CNN.

First Amendment reminder
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Now to the comment from Matt CA:
"Why is it all the athiests, jews, muslims and other non christian folk get so upset that someone says "Merry Christmas" …You say "ALL" this is a typical prejudice statement.Most of the other religious groups have the same respect for other religion than for their own .We are the one who over 2000 years try to put Christ in them ,not respecting their religion. It is not the majority of islam who hates and do not respect christians and their believes , it is the extremist of islamic groups, jewish people are still hated today by those islamic groups and some so called christian groups.We do do not tolerate pagans bcs they believe in the natrual things earth water etc,which we, bcs we do not understand compare with whichcraft. This is called Religious intolerance which is either intolerance motivated by one's own religious beliefs or intolerance against another's religious beliefs or practices. It manifests both at a cultural level, but may also be a formal part of the dogma of particular religious groups.

The mere statement on the part of a religion that its own beliefs and practices are correct and any contrary beliefs incorrect does not in itself constitute intolerance. There are many cases throughout history of established religions tolerating other practices. Religious intolerance, rather, is when a group (a society, a religious group) specifically refuses to tolerate practices, persons or beliefs on religious grounds.

Religious intolerance may be purely religious, but can be a "cover story" for an underlying political or cultural motive.

Religion has nothing to do with politics and should be seperated,it is just wrong to use religion to get browny points.This takes away from the main issues that politians should concentrate on .We dicect christmas messages of our candidates instead of to decide who benefits us the most and what their agenda is .It is very sad to see still today how much disrespect and lack of tolerance we have for each other in any aspect, religious, racial or what ever
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays

I live in South Carolina, while I don't mind Huckabee playing the religion card, I am more concerned about his stance(or lack of stance) on immigration. If Huck will sign a pledge to enforce existing immigration laws and kick out illegal immigrants, he may have my vote. I'm a true christian conservative. I couldn't vote for George W Bush because of how weak he was on immigration. I work as a manager at a video game store. If I wanted the border opened up, then I might as well voted for a Democrat, and atlest that way I would get a raise. I'm tried of people like bush saying that Mexicans will do jobs americans won't do. Mexicans work jobs that Americans aren't willing to do AT THAT PAYRATE! If you kick out the illegals, that forces American companies to pay more money to fill those jobs, or do it themselves! Please come out strong againsts Corportation Executives and Illegals, the candidate that comes out VERY strong against Illegal Immigration, or John Edwards has my vote!

hucks hurmor is about as dry as his sons ,.killing dogs is not funny and neither using god to get elected,.,.god dont like rich repubs.,no rich men get to heaven remember ,.good theng it didnt say anything about rich women hehhe,.,.txtj

Okay – for all those who think the "Paul is Dead" comment has to do with Ron Paul – where have you been? Do you even remember who The Beatles were? FYI – "Paul is Dead" is in reference to a Beatles song that when played backwards says "Paul is Dead". Huckabee is not insane, hes just making reference to a phrase that most Americans know the meaning of.
Suggestion – do your homework before sounding like a complete idiot.

It is not Jesus Christ nor his teachings that intimidates the non-Christians among us.

It is the self-righteousness of Christians that scares us, and their threats to take away our basic rights, such as: a woman's right to choose, the right of a gay couple to be able to enjoy the same advantages married couples have, and the right to have our children learn about the theory of evolution in their science classes. Among so many others.

We have a separation of church and state for a reason. The religious Christian fundamentals among us are threatening to impede our progress as a nation. Frankly, I believe they will cause our collapse.

"Live and let live" is not a concept the Christians seem to be all that familiar with.

Why is it all the athiests, jews, muslims and other non christian folk get so upset that someone says "Merry Christmas"

So many post about "That is not what I believe" Get over it and grow up. I don't want politically correct responses kowtowing to every minority opinion when someone is trying to wish you well.

Your in a minority because not many people think like you. Accept that. No one is saying what you think is wrong and that they do not accept you.

They are just not making some generalized watered down and safe response to coddle and inflate the ego's of minority opinions. To do so goes against the original intention which was to wish you well.

Now there is no harm in wishing someone well is there? There is no malice in the words or malice intended. By any means of saying it, it still means the same thing right? It's still a positive thing.

So saying Merry Christmas to someone should not break out into some political furver and accepting of minority points of view. Saying Merry Christmas is a cultoral, ethnic, and religious term. Not just one but all.

So for all the whiney people that bring up not my religion, accept my religion, specialize to my belief, why don't you start the accepting by accepting others and their beliefs as well.

Accept that Merry Christmas just means that someone is making the effort to wish you the best at this time of year. From their point of view they are just being kind and thoughtful. That is how it is intended and that is how it should be taken.

We accept that the words "All men are created equal" means all people not just the male of the species. Because in our hearts we accepted the change of meaning.

So when someone wishes you Merry Christmas at this time that they really mean " Happy Hanuka" or "salam malakim" or "Have fun sitting alone wishing you were with family" or whatever your minority opinion or belief is that is what you are being wished.

Maybe if you were more accepting of others they would be accepting of you. You can start by accepting that there is this majority in America and you are either some part of it or some part not of it. But you must accept it even if you don't agree with it or are apart of it.

And remember that you only have that minority opinion and belief because the majority are accepting of you.

And so to you all I say "Merry Christmas"

To all my Democrat friends:

Please accept with no obligation, implied or implicit, my best wishes for an environmentally conscious, socially responsible, low-stress, non-addictive, gender-neutral celebration of the winter solstice holiday, practiced within the most enjoyable traditions of the religious persuasion of your choice, or secular practices of your choice, with respect for the religious/secular persuasion and/or traditions of others, or their choice not to practice religious or secular traditions at all. I also wish you a fiscally successful, personally fulfilling and medically uncomplicated recognition of the onset of the generally accepted calendar year 2008, but not without due respect for the calendars of choice of other cultures whose contributions to society have helped make America great. Not to imply that America is necessarily greater than any other country nor the only America in the Western Hemisphere. Also, this wish is made without regard to the race, creed, color, age, physical ability, religious faith or sexual preference of the wishee.

To all my Republican friends:

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

To all the bashers of Huckabee's Christmas wishes & western religious ideals. An upcoming group of "religious folks" will be in the spotlight soon & they will be running for office. Attacking "their religion & beliefs" will have dire consequences not only in America, but world wide! So have your fun now chopping up Huckabee's cross, his religious views & Christmas ball trilogy.

You are about to meet & adhere to "The Ultimate Politically Correct Party". No Religious Bashing Allowed At All! Enjoy!

Perhaps the tree has a secret message to – it looks like a space ship is flying towards a red planet – is Huckabee sending a message to his leader? The media is out-of-control and less truthful than Bush.

I have no problem with anyone wishing me Merry Christmas. I do have a problem with someone running for president trying to show he is more Christian than someone else. He also is a religious bigot but Mormon bashing seems acceptable to some so-called Christians. I want a candidate to tell me his view on taxes and other important issues. I want an ethical president who doesn't solict gifts from other people while in office. People are actually saying they are supporting this guy because of this commercial. Look at his suggestion of a national sales tax and his foreign policy. A close look at this guy shows he is in no way qualified to lead the country.

A bookshelf. That's all–a bookshelf. No books on the shelves. But, a bookshelf. It probably had books on the shelves but God intervened to make us see only the Cross. Mysterious ways.

Jesus.

The only thing worse than him thinking we are total fools is the possibility that he is right.

Heaven forbid if we should have Christ like politicians..

Hukabee is an idiot. A typical lying self serving preacher that feeds off people and takes their money. Unqualified from a State that the economy is so small who cares??
This guy would not have a clue about the constitution. he just does his little smirk with those stupid preacher jokes.

You people must be blind or just stupid to follow this idiot. This is like the Preachers that take all the money from the plate and drive 200,000 dollar cars where Rolexes and live in Malibu and have 4 otehr homes and these peole send them more money. They should be in jail.

*sigh* What is it with the press and the media around Christmas time? Every bloody year, same thing. "Is it Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays?" Come on, people. I'm a Jew, born and raised in Canada, and if someone says "Merry Christmas" to me, I say it right back to them. I don't get into this whole "I'm not Christian, you should say Happy Hannukah to me blah blah blah". In fact, I find it more insulting when people say "Happy Holidays" to me than "Merry Christmas", because it sounds like they're trying to pander to me (or at least trying to be politically correct, and there are few things I hate more than being politically correct). I just hope this stupid and asinine debate gets finished eventually and we can all go back to saying what we want, the way it's supposed to be.

So, everyone, as Krusty the Clown says,

"Have a Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, Kwazy Kwanzaa, Tip Top Tet, and a Solemn, Dignified Ramadan".

Why is everyone all over Huckabee about his faith? Sure, Huckabee knew that was a cross behind him. And sos? What's wrong with that? Why doesn't he just come on out and say, yes, it's a cross back there. He is/was a Baptist Minister. Goodness gracious. But there's something about Huckabee that bothers me about this whole thing. I mean it seems he tries to hide some things that are true about the Bible and Jesus Christ just to make it politically correct as he campaigns. I think he'd better watch this because although he wants it both ways I don't really know if it can be done that way. And if it can, meaning embracing the entire America while still remaining true to what he knows, true to the Lord, then more power to him and of course all power to Him! And the same for Romney, I don't think Romney is being totally honest in revealing his faith to the American people. Has he said their book of faith is the Gideon Book? Has he said their name is Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints? And so all this means something absolutely different from Christianity, yet they seem to want to try to make it seem as if it is all totally the same, and it is not.

Iam more worried about what kind of kids Huckabee has than what his religion but he will not be able to separate one from the other. One of his sons was expelled from the Boy Scouts for torturing, cutting a dogs throat and hanging it. Nice family. I would compare him not to vick but to Dahmer. I hope we are not dumb enough as a country to once again put somebody in the WH who says God placed him there. And yes, Huckabee probably thinks that it's his religious right to be President.

Wow Tom Soppe, you seem to have a lot of hate in your heart. The only real point I was trying to make, and I’ll concede that I may have gotten a little side-tracked, was that by attacking Huckabee over something as trivial as wishing his supporters a Merry Christmas, you create the potential for Christians to flock to his defense. Evangelical Christians are looking for a candidate to back and they have proven that they can be easily manipulated. They backed Bush in the previous 2 elections and made ALL of the difference for him all because he told them he was a born-again Christian. I have actually been to churches that pass out flyers to the congregation with the Christian pros and cons of the candidates listed “for their information”. Sermons are being prepared AS WE SPEAK that serve to give “insight” into the evils of the liberal-minded world. No doubt, someone will use your comments (Keep your Jesus out of My Government) as a war cry to rally in support of a new Bush. Pastors feel the need all across the land to tell their congregations how they should vote.

Regarding my loyalties, I have no intentions of switching my support of Hillary to anyone. I will support her campaign until she is no longer running for President (be that February, June, November, or 2016). Regarding talking privately to God, I do it daily. It’s what Christians refer to as prayer. We believe that God hears us. We believe that he communicates with us through his Word (the Bible) and through his Holy Spirit. I’ve never verbally had God tell me that something is offensive. However, I have offended him often and know that it can be done. As a non-believer, I’m not asking you to fall for anything and I’m sure that you’ll dismiss this as poppycock. And that’s ok I guess. Understand that I know that you are entitled to your beliefs, opinions, and convictions. Just understand that Mike Huckabee is entitled to his as well.

Merry Christmas Tom Soppe!

Hillary ’08!

We cant say Merry Christmas because some people feel left out?

That makes me feel left out.

If I have to listen to you about your "holiday" then please he me spout about MINE…

Merry Catherine to all.. presents are now being accepted.

Ben Franklin
Congressional Congress, 1787

"I have lived, Sir, a long time, and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth–that God Governs the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without His notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without His aid?

"We have been assured, Sir, in the Sacred Writings, that "except the Lord build the House, they labor in vain that build it." I firmly believe this; and I also believe that without his concurring aid we shall succeed in this political building no better than the Builders of Babel: We shall be divided by our partial local interests; our projects will be confounded, and we ourselves shall become a reproach and bye word down to future ages. And what is worse, mankind may hereafter from this unfortunate instance, despair of establishing Governments by Human wisdom and leave it to chance, war and conquest.

"I therefore beg leave to move–that henceforth prayers imploring the assistance of Heaven, and its blessing on our deliberations, be held in this Assembly every morning before we proceed to business, and that one or more of the clergy of this city be requested to officiate in that service."

Fisher Ames

(Author of the First Amendment)

"Should not the Bible regain the place it once held as a schoolbook? Its morals are pure, its examples are captivating and noble….In no Book is there so good English, so pure and so elegant, and by teaching all the same they will speak alike, and the Bible will justly remain the standard of language as well as of faith."

4 Patrick Henry

"It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded not by religionists but by Christians, not on religion but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We shall not fight alone. God presides over the destinies of nations."

Zombie likes brains.
Brainssssss.
BRAINNSSSSSS.

“What students would learn in American schools above all is the religion of Jesus Christ.”
–George Washington in a speech to the Delaware Indian Chiefs May 12, 1779

Thomas Jefferson

“The doctrines of Jesus are simple, and tend to all the happiness of man.”

“Of all the systems of morality, ancient or modern which have come under my observation, none appears to me so pure as that of Jesus.”

"I am a real Christian, that is to say, a disciple of the doctrines of Jesus." [Letter to Benjamin Rush April 21, 1803]

“God who gave us life gave us liberty. And can the liberties of a nation be thought secure when we have removed their only firm basis, a conviction in the minds of the people that these liberties are a gift from God? That they are not to be violated but with His wrath? Indeed I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just, and that His justice cannot sleep forever.” [Notes on the State of Virginia, 1781]

“It [the Bible] is a document in proof that I am a real Christian, that is to say, a disciple of the doctrines of Jesus."
[Jan 9, 1816 Letter to Charles Thomson]

Benjamin Franklin: | Portrait of Ben Franklin
“ God governs in the affairs of man. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without his notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without His aid? We have been assured in the Sacred Writings that except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it. I firmly believe this. I also believe that, without His concurring aid, we shall succeed in this political building no better than the builders of Babel” –Constitutional Convention of 1787 | original manuscript of this speech

John Adams and John Hancock:
We Recognize No Sovereign but God, and no King but Jesus! [April 18, 1775]

John Adams:
“ The general principles upon which the Fathers achieved independence were the general principals of Christianity… I will avow that I believed and now believe that those general principles of Christianity are as eternal and immutable as the existence and attributes of God.”
• “[July 4th] ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty.”
–John Adams in a letter written to Abigail on the day the Declaration was approved by Congress

Patrick Henry:
"Orator of the Revolution."
• This is all the inheritance I can give my dear family. The religion of Christ can give them one which will make them rich indeed.”
—The Last Will and Testament of Patrick Henry

“It cannot be emphasized too clearly and too often that this nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religion, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ. For this very reason, peoples of other faiths have been afforded asylum, prosperity, and freedom of worship here.” [May 1765 Speech to the House of Burgesses]

“The Bible is worth all other books which have ever been printed.”

Christmas has become a BIG ECONOMIC BOOM for America. Let me see, you celebrate GOD's SON's birthday and America propers. It's…….almost…… like…….. GOD is pleased.

Hey Huck-a-don't, actually … Christmas being on December 25 is no accident, it was the date of the Roman feast of Juvenalia, which Pope Julius I conveniently chose to celebrate Christ's birth on. So much for religious authenticity. So secular celebration couldn't be more in tune with this particular holiday.

Ever heard of a wolf in sheeps clothing?? I would never try this bigot with some many past hateful attacks against minority groups. What a two faced bigot.

To all those outraged at Huckabee’s bookshelf cross, Christmas, other Christian Holidays & religious candidates showing respect for Christmas. Show your REAL convictions! Protest By Going To Work On Those Days & Shut Up! I don't want to offend anyone so, If Ya "Hate The Baby Jesus", Close Your Eyes NOW! Merry Christmas & a Very Prosperous Happy New Year To All of you!

Ok, Open Your Eyes NOW! YOU, Have a Nasty, Terrible Holiday Season! May hordes of annoying people cascade thru your neighborhood while singing off key Christmas carols praising the baby Jesus & Joy to the world. I have become like all the adversaries of Christmas & America. I will hate your religion or your atheist beliefs by protesting & opposing EVERYTHING you believe in & want changed From Now On! God Bless America & the freedom of expression to do unto others what they’ve done unto you & your country!

So, Bill in Iowa, are you sure that my support for keeping Jesus out of government offends God? You sound pretty sure about that. You must have talked to him privately.

If separation of church and state offends God so much, maybe God should finally read the constitution.

Oh, and I suppose I'm just driving you to Huckabee and away from the Dems by saying this, right? As if it is constitutionalist non-Christians' fault that you are threatening to support Huckabee for shallow reasons.

That sounds like the typical mainstream media argument- if Republicans win by out-Christianing the Dems, and Dems stay loyal to keeping the government nonsectarian like the founding fathers wanted it, it's the Dems fault for having principles, not the Republicans' fault for cynically manipulating theocratic feelings.

Or maybe you are just threatening to support Huck instead of Hillary if we disagree with you in order to trick fellow Dems into not responding to your comment? Nice trick to try to get the last word. I'm not falling for it.

America is too PC. When we wish Merry Christmas, it's not inclusive. If we left Merry Christmas out of an ad, you wouldn't see a bunch of Christians posting on a message board. This country has turned into the "me" country. The country of "I", where everyone thinks their opinion is the most important. Here's an idea. Stop being offended by things not meant to offend. Stop looking for things to be pissed off about. Be happy, enjoy life. Go to work on "Christmas day" if you don't believe in Christmas, although everyone believes in a day off. I celebrate the birth of Jesus, not Dec. 25. Had it happened to fall on July 19, I would still celebrate it as a day of significance, not celebrating the day itself. Get a life people. Stop reading in to things. Enjoy yourselves, help others, be kind. These are universal truths. And deal with the fact that people in this country can say whatever they want, such as Merry Christmas….even if they are running for President. Welcome to America, home of the free, just not free speech if what they say disagrees with your opinion. Welcome to the country of "ME" and "I".

I tell you what…to all of you that are offended by CHRISTMAS. Don't enjoy the benefits that this national holiday brings. Don't exchange gifts…and GO TO WORK. Take Halloween off.

Christ Mass, Christmas – Who cares? Huckabee's statement has nothing to do with denomination, but rather a history lesson on where the word "Christmas" came from. In the end, its Christmas! Its the same now as it was in centuries past. My first ammendment right gives me the freedom to say "Merry Christmas" just as it gives those the right to say something else. Why should Mr. Huckabee have to say "Happy Holidays" just so he won't run the risk of offending someone? Politicians lie enough these days without encouraging them to say what they don't believe just to please someone and get a vote.

My purpose on this earth is to tell others about Jesus, just as it is their "choice" whether they "choose" to believe. In the end, its about choices. Why is it that we find the need to criticize others for that? Why? Maybe because we live in a society where everyone has to be right, and to hell with those who "choose" not to believe what you believe. The question is – how much faith do you have in your choice? I choose Jesus! I choose "Merry Christmas!" I choose my first ammendment right to say so. If I offended anyone with my comments, oh well … I guess I'll just have to live with that. And, by the way, its a bookshelf! Get over it!

In response to some of my attackers out there:

From Adam in Ohio
"Your view, Matt, that that means I am not voting for him because he's a Christian makes you an idiot."

You're still against him for talking about his Christian faith. It seems that is your main criticism of him, which is my point. Huckabee will use his experiences as governor and as a Church leader to guide his judgment.

From Bukky in Baltimore
"I dont want YOUR way of thinking forced down my throat or mandated into law."

Huckabee is not going to force Christianity down anyone's throat, but he has every right to talk about religion. As president or VP he will be guided by his views same as you are guided by your liberal views. Both are equally valid, I just believe Christian and conservative values are best for the country.

When you look at American values and laws they are deeply rooted in the Christian tradition. As far as I am concerned "my" way of thinking was mandated into law long ago.

D Scherer said <>

D Scherer – Unfortunately, you and others have disorted things a lot. No one is saying you can't say Merry Christmas to Christians or that it's not OK to be Christian. You WANT to see it this way because it makes it easier to excuse your own bad behavior. Or you're just not that bright. You pick.

KND said:

KND – it IS possible, but Huckabee is evidence that it's not possible for HIM. Look at the ad, look at his past behaviors. He can't do it. He's a mistake.

I don't attend the company Christmas parties (yeah – more than one) and I would be working on Christmas if I could. They lock me out of the building, same as they do on Good Friday.

Why should anyone expect that I celebrate the birth of another religion's god? He's not my G-d, and celebrating false idols, isn't that one of those pesky commandments?

It's such a commercial holiday now. Why don't the Christians attempt to wrestle their holiday back from the edge of extinction into the orgy of spending and eating that is has become.

Take a look at your own house, before you attack non-Christians for just not wanting to have to bow down and celebrate someone else's religion.

Is that so ho, ho, ho hard to understand?

YOU PEOPLE. The one's who are whining about having religion "slammed" down your throat. GIVE ME A BREAK. The 1st Amendment allows Christians and all people of faith to "express" their beliefs. IF YOU DON'T LIKE IT, TURN IT OFF OR DON'T LISTEN. If an islamic radical gets on TV and starts wishing everyone Happy Bombing then I will laugh and turn it off. The United States govt. has absolutely nothing to do with this ad. You have no right to condemn Huckabee's faith. The 1st Amendment says that the government will make no law establishing a religion. The second that the government makes a law establishing Christianity as the countries "official" religion I will contact the ACLU on your behalf. UNTIL THEN, SHUT UP and quit your whining.

…liberals cannot tolerate Christianty and will do anything to remove all aspects of faith and religion from society." Sounds like classic victimization identity in psychology. This liberal labeling is indicative of what's wrong in the US: an us-vs.-them mentality.

And why is one of Huckabee's ears white while the other is black?? @#$%racist..

Again Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays
Frohe Weihnachten, Felize Navidad, Bon Noel,Buon Natale ,Gelukkige feestdagen, Feliz férias,καλες διακοπες , 즐거운 명절 , 幸せな休日, 節日快樂,You guys don't get it , you play way to much in this …No matter what religion,important is what the candidates can do for us and our country , frankly I don't care if he/she is pagan,atheist or what ever longest the job is done better than is the past especially for our poor,our almost no more existing middleclass
our children,veterans etc …you get the picture. Happy Holidays to the whole country

Agree agree agree….there is no story here. It is a media attempt to sensationalize something out of nothing again. Huckabee may not be fully qualified to be president like a Hillary and Giuliani (in my opinion) but he is sharp when it comes to dealing with the media. The media has not made a puppet on the string out of Huckabee like the other candidates. He's standing tall and firm with who and what he is…answering only to the real public. This approach is masterful and I can not pull myself away from this guy even though I am such a big fan of other candidates. His responses exposes what the spin machine & media is doing and it kills them. My fear? the media will now go on a character assination crusade …and poor Huckabee….I hope he can handle it. Though, my suspision is that the public can see through all this and the more they attack him on these ridiculous stories, the more support he'll get. Advise to the spin machine…..attack the candidate but do not attack the public's intelligence…it'll back fire on you. Go Huckabee!! oh….btw, it was only a bookshelf….I saw no cross other then a white bookshelf. Also, I am no evangelical…trust me! but I say merry christmas to all so what's wrong with that? but then again…what do I know…I'm only an average voter.

Ahhh, maybe it really is a sign, sent from Heaven to tell us he is the chosen one? Could be? God can work miracles you know.

Huckabee = Heaven-sent

???????????????????????????????????????

It's plain to see that this is a cross…nothing SUBLIMINAL about it. We don't need another Bible thumper in the White House. This guy has ZERO foreign policy experience. I hope the GOP has sense enough to nominate someone else or they're toast in '08.

Hi Ian,
From Eastham MA ,no hard feelings. Ya see how easy it is for most any issue, comment etc to be taken out of context when one doiesnt have a full understanding of the background.If we all knew everything about everything maybe the world would be a better place.
It´s Ironic that an issue over a cross in a political campaign became a lesson on a detail about the Beatles and Paul McCartney.Bottom Line is that this country is a mess and it´s diversity that we are so proud to exclaim to the world will be our down fall. For those that celebrate the Birth Of christ it´s quite sad that this beautiful time of the year has become a corporate/ media campaign as the brain washed masses flood the non descript shopping malls.
peace to all

I just don't understand why some people refuse to believe that it is possible for a Christian to be a Christian without parading (and by parading I mean forcing) their religion around for all else to see. I am a liberal, democrat, Christian who, when greeting passersby, says "Seasons greetings" and then Christians are happy, Jews, and any and everyone else because if nothing else, it is Winter. Republicans need to stop their "monopoly" on religion and need to admit the possibility that democrats' desire to keep Christianity, or religion in general, out of the public and governmental sect is not representative of shame or embarrassment for Christianity but is upholding the highest tenet of said, religion, the golden rule, namely that the best way to love and show respect for one's neighbors is to be open, and more than tolerant of their personal and religious beliefs.

What so many of you don't seem to understand is that the louder you complain, the more you are driving Christians who are sick of being attacked to him in droves.

Posted By Faith, Evansville, Indiana: December 18, 2007 8:36 pm
————-
Faith has a point. I've been a Christian since I was 12 and have never voted for a republican presidential nominee. In fact, I am a STRONG supporter of Hillary in this presidential race. However, to see Mike being bashed on the topic of wishing his supporters (mostly Christian GOP’ers) Merry Christmas, makes we want to write his campaign a check.

He seems genuine, which is more than I can say for most in this race. McCain was recently asked if he was a Christian, but would never admit outright that he was. I find that disturbing. I didn’t vote for Bush or his daddy in their elections, and wouldn’t vote for someone solely based on their faith (simply because I have found that people will say anything to get elected). However, multitudes of people did group around Bush in 2000 and 2004, just because he claimed to be a Christian. So, whether you like it or not, Christians can (and are likely to) choose the next President of the United States. Let’s not give them (and me) reasons to rally around this candidate. Comments like “Keep your Jesus out of my Government” serve not only to offend me and countless other Christians, they offend God (Jesus’ Father), Jesus (God the Son), and the Holy Spirit of God. The God-head, as we Christians call it, can triple-handedly alter the course of the election. May God’s mercies, blessings, and grace flow to all of the candidates, especially mine.

Hillary ’08!

It's plain to see that Huckabee is pandering to the right-wing evangelical base. Nothing wrong with that except we aren't electing a Theocrat in Chief.

By the way he does NOT have a degree in Theology. He attended the seminary for one year. He has a B.A. in religion from a Baptist university. Do some homework before you defend his "degree in theology". He doesn't have one.

yes, there is a subliminal message when you play it back! and it's not "Paul is dead", Hucleberry, you old jokester, you. it actually says; "I am a wolf in sheeps clothes, I march in step with Bush but try to act like I don't now that I realize it won't get me elected, I am a member of the CFR and bow to their wishes along with the international bankers and corporations and this explains my sudden surge of media coverage, I am a globalist, I will tax the living daylights out of you like I did Arkansas"….it continues but it is muffled and actually sounds like he makes a deal with satan. figures.

…and the three Christmas balls on the shelf represent the Trilogy, and the Christmas Tree represents the logging industry
This isn't news. I want to know who will be at the next quilting bee.

Liberals hate Huckabee because they hate Christians and can't stand see a candidate devoted to his morals. Huckabee is not a Christian running for president, he is a great leader who happens to be Christian.

Anyone who wouldn't vote for Huckabbe because of his faith are the same bigots that wouldn't vote for Obama because he's black.

McCain/Huckabee in 2008

Posted By Matt, New York, New York : December 19, 2007 10:14 am

Whoa dude… 1st- I am a christian AND a tree hugging liberal. I dont hate christians. I seriously dislike people who believe that THEIR way of christianity/ Doctirne/ Faith is the ONLY way and all other believers are doomed to burn. I dont want YOUR way of thinking forced down my throat or mandated into law.

Thats what Bush tried to do with gay rights and abstinence as sex ed. Those ideas are core to religious beliefs and not necessarily what MAKES SENSE.

And really… How can you equate one not wanting mandated religious doctrine to one NOT voting for a man based on skin color. Religion defines a man more so that his skin color because religion goes deep to the soul while color is only surface. Clearly you have issues for thinking the two are eqaul.

Anyone who wouldn't vote for Huckabbe because of his faith are the same bigots that wouldn't vote for Obama because he's black.

McCain/Huckabee in 2008
Posted By Matt, New York, New York : December 19, 2007 10:14 am

I'm an atheist, and I dislike Huckabee–not because he is a Christian, but because his social philosophy is such that social ills can only be solved through Christian faith and not through public policy. That's at odds with my worldview. Your view, Matt, that that means I am not voting for him because he's a Christian makes you an idiot. If that were the case, I would vote for nobody. I would not have voted for Bill Clinton. And last year, I would not have voted for Ted Strickland, a Methodist minister, for Ohio governor. The difference with those guys? They don't govern from the pulpit.

This has probably been said, but as a politician, in a political message, Huckabee knew that saying "Merry Christmas" would bring a reaction. For him to say otherwise is deceitful and dishonest, or he's an idiot. Either way, he loses credit.

For those of you bashing atheists, the reason they're up in arms isn't because they hate God, it's the fact that people are saying "I think Christians's should stand up up for what they believe. We need a strong Godly leader for president." To an atheist, that means their leader is going to be listening to voices in his head for guidance, instead of the people, and rationality.

We are an ethical nation, a humane nation, a great nation… We are not, however, a Christian Nation. Our country is based on Freedom, that's it. God can be good, the Bible can make some valid arguments, and Jesus may have been a swell guy, no problem, but I refuse to let the "Lord our Savior" take office. If Huckabee backs away from his pulpit and approaches the presidency as a representative of the land of the Free, I'm all for him. So far, he's just touting religion, and it's a terrifying thought.

It's a shame when a Christian candidate in a mainly Christian nation is actually critized for wishing people a Merry Christmas. Evangelicals are often accused of intolerance by liberal types. But those same liberals cannot tolerate Christianty and will do anything to remove all aspects of faith and religion from society.

The Republican party is a Christian party, so are the Democrats so are 90% of the American people. The difference is the Republicans embrace their faith. The Democrats are only Christians when it suits their political careers.

Posted By Matt, New York, New York : December 18, 2007 4:18 pm
————————–

So what do the other 10% count as? Nothing? I guess Jews, Muslims, Buddhists etc are not welcomein the GOP. I am assuming Yuck reviewed the ad before it aired and approved as is, even though it appears to be a cross purposely or not. But since he was targeting Christians, he left it. That also goes for wishing people of other faiths a "happy whatever"

As for Matts comment above about removing faith, we are trying to keep it where it belongs. NOT front and center. I do not want the GOP who obviously would put religion back into the process trying to press their beliefs into everyone else's life.

I am a Buddhist but wish all Christians a Merry Christmas, all Jews a Happy Hanukkah, all Muslims a glorious Ramadan, and those of other faiths Joy and Peace. What I dont want is for any of those groups to shove their religion down my throat through the political process. Also, New Years is just around the corner so Happy Holidasys to all.

As a pro-growth, pro-national defense, yet very heathen and non-religious Conservative Libertarian (is there truly such a thing?), I have to say, you whiners need to get a life.

The guy simply said Merry Christmas. So sue him.

How about a nice, "You have a nice day, too," in response? No need to be a petulant jerk when someone is wishing you well.

That's the bitter pill of "tolerance" that liberals refuse to swallow: accepting and tolerating views different from your own.

See, liberals demand tolerance, but only for the issues they champion. You other rubes, well you can just go p*ss up a rope.

I'm SICK of this guy abusing his identity as a Christian to get votes. This is SO slimy! He's using his religion as a qualification for office. This is SO wrong! Besides, if this was a bookshelf, it would have books on it.

US population – 300 million
US Christians – 270 million

90% of the population believes Jesus is their savior.

And the earlier poster is correct. If Huck want's to celebrate Christmas in it's wholeness, he ought to reconcile with the Catholic Church.

Bless him for saying Merry Christmas though. I turn to every holiday clerk that says "Happy Holidays" and look them square in the eye and say "Merry Christmas."

I am not offended if a Muslim or Jew gives me a blessing from their faith, so you can't be offended if you recieve a blessing from mine.

I don't know why there's such an uproar that Huckabee denies subliminal Christmas message in his recent ad. Go back to your coverage of the 2004 Republican National Convention and study closely the design of the podium. It appeared to me and most everyone I spoke to that there was a cross shape in the inlayed wood of the podium . . . and no one noticed or pitched a fit (as they SHOULD have) at that!!! Why doesn't CNN investigate this and do a report on it. Keep this thing going, please please please!!!

I cringed when I read some of these posts by theists. Anyone who doesn't believe in evolution, i.e Huckabee, cannot be trusted to run the nation, Furthermore, the argument over symantics that follows the logic that because science uses the term theory when describing its fundamental beliefs it isnt fact is not an argument. Evolution has never been disproven and is an observable and verifiable reality.Just like the theory of gravity, theory of relativity and so on. Since you may not want to take the time needed to read the thousands upon thousands of scientific journals and texts that demonstrate this here are some youtube links that will give you quick answers:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jVaCmASYLDg&feature=related

This is nothing more than a feable attempt for the news forums to try and push us towards who they want as a contender for their candididate. Fox news bashes everyone not Gulieani and CNN is for whoever would do worse against Clinton or Obama. Wake up America. Form your own opinion and vote for who you beleive will be best for this country. One who handles such topics as a stronger dollar, lower fuel costs, alternataive fuels, global warming, and basic freedoms that we should have based upon the foundation of America. I dont want to fight everyones battles but at the same time if we don't who will? As a superpower we need to make sure countries do the right thing. This means we also need to do the right thing in order to set examples. But anyway – regardless if that person is a Republican or Democrat, I like Huck and because he is s straight talke. However I do believe he pandars a little to the religous base. I like Mccain but I fear is his message is not getting across. I wanted to vote for him in 2000 but Bush got the nomination before Ohio had a chance to really do anything about it. I like on the other Side as well. I like Clinton but I have concerns that it will really be Bill running the show. I like Obabam but I am unsure if he pandars to his audience. On the other hand Edwards makes me feel dirty after listening to him. Like a car sale gone bad. Giluani does not talk about anything other than Terriorism. He happened to be a leader at the time and was not very popular. Given that Jerry Springer was once the mayor of Cincinnati. Can you imagine him running for President if he happened to be mayor during a terrorism attack on Cincinnati?

Wake up an vote your mind people we are all humans and are capable of voting based upon critcal thinking. Please do that come election day. Just don't vote the party line or what your church tells you to vote for.

It's not after watching Huckabee's ad, but it's after watching CNN's interview of Huchabee for the bookshelf that I've decided that Huckabee would be a good president. He just needs to find a more shrewd and practical Vice President and guide the nation to the right path. For those in San Francisco area wanting to vote for Edwards, I just want to point out that Edwards thinks any family making $200,000 is top rich and should be taxed more, and in the Bay Area, if you don't make this much, you can't afford living in a real house. So when you vote for him, think about all the middle class people here will get taxed more, and already middle class people are being weighed down by all the heavy burdens of paying for everything in the country. The super rich don't really get taxed much because they have smart accountants and their income is capital gain, not regular salary.

can't even say ‘Merry Christmas’ anymore without somebody getting all upset about it.”

Ah, there he goes with the bull**** war on Christmas. What a smooth operator–he put out an "innocent" ad so that he could drum up a phony war on Christmas and then say, "look at these terrible secularists."

How naive does Huckabee think voters are?

Wait– don't answer that.

Anyway, I'm sure it was intentional, but it's also much ado about nothing, too, IMO.

"Paul is Dead"

Since you asked this question, I'm guessing that you are either in your 20s or 30s and do not remember when The Beatles were still performing together.

I'm only 24 and I still know what "Paul is dead" refers to.

What do these candidates think would happen. Religion and politics is a cheap, weak way to speak to the uneducated, the niave Americans.
I'm insulted when these idiots speak like Bush has that they have late evening talks with the frolicing Christ.

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Happy New Year, Grow Up.

Correction: I said "undoubtably" when I should have said "undoubtedly."

Oh, and to Jill and Brad– put your punctuation inside the quotation marks. It's easier to take you seriously when it looks like you have at least a sixth grade education.

Matt, your argument is *really* tiresome. Most liberals in America *are* Christian. Whether you like it or not.

(P.S. You don't get to decide who's a Christian.)

i'm no more offended by this bookshelf than i am the t in the headline.

The comment that "we" celebrate Christmas is infuriating and most of all, ignorant. It does not matter that the majority of the US is Christian. Is he running to be president for just the Christians? Congratulations, Mike, you just alienated millions of voters. Merry Christmas to you.

that first sentence was supposed to read
And it's not Huck's faith that will make me not vote for him, it's his lack of faith.

It was quite obvious to me (and most people I'm sure)that it was a shelf behind Mr. Huckabee. we had some exactly like them not long ago. I think it was Pat Buchanan that first referred to a cross as I feel sure
Huckabee didn't even think of such a thing while making this.

Hey all you despisers of the cross (there isn't one in the Huckabee ad), where was your cynical outrage and hatred when Obama and Hillary were filmed leading church services (there were crosses all over the place in those ads)?

Jews and Muslims also celebrate Christmas.
Anyone who wouldn't vote for Huckabbe because of his faith
Posted By Matt, New York, New York : December 19, 2007 10:14 am

Uhhh, WRONG, what an absolutely ludicrous statement.

And it's Huck's faith that will make me not vote for him, it's his lack faith.
Lack of faith in evolution in the face of mauntains of empirical and forensic evidence. Or perhaps it is his faith, his faith that the Earth is only 6000 years old. Anyone who espouses those two viewpoints gives me great concern and causes me to suspect their objective judgment.

Personally, I have absolutely no problem with Merry Christmas, but I absolutely have a problem with the Huckster's very calculated, sneaky moves. He is not proud at all of his record and can't find anything in Romney's record to discredit him, so he plays the religion card again and again.

Bill from NY, NY exposed the whole thing with his comment:

Not intentional?? Then why does the bookcase have more light on it than the darned Xmas tree and most of the Huckster's face?

Good for Mr. Huckabee.
I will never say happy holidays to anyone. This is Christmas. So Merry Christmas to all Americans and everyone around the world.

"To JONAH regarding 'he does not believe in scientific fact'. When did the THEORY of evolution become FACT?
You need to get your FACTS right."
-Jill from Minnesota

"Uhh… Jonah, do you realize that it's called the 'theory of evolution'? No, it's not a fact, as you claim, anymore than the story of Adam and Eve is"
-Brad from Texas

You are both confusing the word "theory" with the word "hypothesis." Nothing in science is described as fact; even gravity is a theory. There are only a few absolute truths, or axioms, and they include a handful of mathematical and logical principles. Anything else starts as a hypothesis, and once it is proven through rigorous testing and analysis of all other possible explanations, it is called a theory. It doesn't mean it's a guess or a loose inference. Yes, if you use the language of science, evolution is a theory, but for practical purposes, it is a fact.

And, by the way, it is CERTAINLY more of a fact than the story of Adam and Eve. Given that Genesis has essentially been proven false by simply measuring the age of the Earth (which is a completely sound science), I would put the odds of Adam and Eve's validity at 0 percent. Compare that to 99.999999999 percent for evolution.

Also, to respond to Brad's claim that "it's all speculation" since no one was around: no it's not. "Speculation" means inferring a number of potential scenarios with very limited information. We, on the other hand, have a wealth of information which has been examined, tested, and analyzed to rule out every single explanation besides evolution, which holds up under any light. EVOLUTION IS UNDOUBTABLY FACT. It's not up for debate. Try arguing that gravity is a lie, or that the sun orbits the earth.

"Liberals hate Huckabee because they hate Christians and can't stand see a candidate devoted to his morals."

Nice to see that there are some people who understand and accept the truth.

I'm not a Christian, but the hate that libs have for Christians is something I find extremely disgusting. Not that the hate that some on the right have for gays isn't, but the hate that almost all on the left have for Christians is far worse.

I don't see how anyone who is Christian, Catholic, Protestant, Mormon, or Jewish could ever vote Democrat. You do realize that you are casting a vote that is getting our nation one step closer to losing our freedom of religion? You vote is in direct contradiction to the morals and values of your religion.

For me it is not religion, it is just common decency, respect and true love for our other citizens. I realize that most on board with me have needed religion to get there. Regardless, we are all united together, to represent what is best about America, to keep the dreams of the founding fathers alive. We all must vote against liberal Democrats since they have made it known that they are committed to destroying the America we know and love. It may be your faith, or it just may be the way you feel obligated to treat your fellow Americans, stand by those beliefs, and vote against liberal Democrats. If you are a religious person who is a Democrat then you do not know the truth. Please take the time to hear what liberals are saying, what they think, what they truly believe and want for our nation. This election is really about decent, caring people Vs. mean selfish Narcissists. Help defeat them in the polls and change the lib hate in their hearts and lead them on the path to being decent people who make a positive impact on our society. Thank you.

Actually, it looks like an addition symbol…is Huckabee trying to promote mathematics!!!!! Holy cow, we do NOT need that in our country

Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Uh oh, I might have offended someone, get over it.

When will this country grow up and stop acting like spoiled little brats. So what if youre offended! I get offended every time the alarm goes off in the morning. What the hell ever happened to freedom of expression, or freedom of speech, or constitutional and inalienable rights? This is the type of B.S. that enables the blind stupidity of the masses, and exactly why no one raises their voice in the face of governmental wrong doing any more. Get a clue people or prepare to lose your rights forever!!!

Isn't it interesting that the very enemies of Christ who want to remove Jesus from His own birthday celebration notice a cross in the background! The fact that Jesus is the Savior of the world cannot be denied, even by those who reject Him. Facts is facts.

Come on. There really isn't a need to be subliminal. It's pretty obvious the Huckster is targeting Christian evangelicals in this ad. Sorry Jews, Muslims and other non-Christians. He doesn't care about your holidays.

Christmas is a legal holiday and is on many calendars just as is Independence Day, Veterans Day, Labor Day, etc.
Where “The very word Christmas comes from the contraction of 'Christ Mass' — the worship of Christ – again, change the word if we don't want to talk about it, but that’s what it symbolizes and represents.” what this says sounds correct, in fact one needs to look at the background of words to find the truth. This truth may be schocking to many Christians. We often hear not only of The Lord Jesus Christ, but the Anti-Christ. So, which Christ is in "christmas". Next look at Mass, an invention of not Catholics, but pagans who offered sacrifices. The Lord Jesus Christ, being the Lamb of God, was the PERFECT and LAST sacrifice necessary to please the Lord God Almighty. In keeping this brief,I hope people reading this will do some of their own homework on this to find truth for themselves.

And the red lights on the tree are actually red glowing eyes of a demon. Get a life.

Bye the bye I am anot a supporter of Huckabees, but really.

MERRY CHRISTMAS! Liberals like to preach tolerance, but then they turn around and show intolerance toward Christianity. What hypocrites! And enough of these false religions like Kwanzaa. Why does Kwanzaa take place on Dec 26 – the day after CHRISTMAS? That's not just a coincidence – looks like they're trying to benefit from the CHRISTMAS season. Or else, Kwanzaa would take place in June or August. Liberals, get the hatred and intolerance out of your hearts and start embracing other people's right to celebrate CHRISTMAS. You have no right to impose your views on them. Oh, and did I say, MERRY CHRISTMAS?

Oh good grief…

1. To the person who confused the terms "fact" and "theory" when speaking about evolution: "Evolution is a theory. It is also a fact. And facts and theories are different things, not rungs in a hierarchy of increasing certainty. Facts are the world's data. Theories are structures of ideas that explain and interpret facts. Facts do not go away when scientists debate rival theories to explain them. Einstein's theory of gravitation replaced Newton's, but apples did not suspend themselves in mid-air, pending the outcome. And humans evolved from ape-like ancestors whether they did so by Darwin's proposed mechanism or by some other yet to be discovered." Stephen Jay Gould.

2. Kudos to Dave from KS for this: Sorry for centuries it's been the begining of the Winter Solstace that we celebrate. Romans celebrated the God Saturn on this day. There's very little truly Christian about your so-called "Christ-mass" The tree is Pagan, as well as the yule log. The exchanging of presents was from the Roman Saturadia. Celebrating Winter Solstace goes back to the Egyptians, long before your Jesus was thought of. And for almost two centuries after the so called life of Jesus, No christians celebrated X-mas"

3. Why do some people think the founding fathers made America a "christian" nation?? Some of them often related their anti-organized church leanings in their speeches and correspondence, including George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson (who created the "Jefferson's Bible"), Benjamin Franklin, Ethan Allen, and Thomas Paine. Several of the Founding Fathers considered themselves to be deists or held beliefs very similar to that of traditional Deists, including Jefferson, Paine and Ethan Allen. "The government of the United States of America is not in any sense founded on the Christian Religion," states the 1797 Treaty of Tripoli. This document was ratified by Congress without much debate or contention and stands today as a reminder of the founding fathers' intentions.

Personally, I have absolutely no problem with Merry Christmas, but I absolutely have a problem with the Huckster's very calculated, sneaky moves. He is not proud at all of his record and can't find anything in Romney's record to discredit him, so he plays the religion card again and again.

Bill from NY, NY exposed the whole thing with his comment:

Not intentional?? Then why does the bookcase have more light on it than the darned Xmas tree and most of the Huckster's face?

"No, Huckabee, that is what YOU celebrate. "We" do not have a national religion. Some people celebrate other holidays, and some people celebrate nothing. Comments like this from Huckabee make me think the forced political correctness may actually be worth it."

Ok then…we have legalized abortion in America…notice the WE. I am completely against abortion along with millions of others. Does that mean I shouldn't say WE AMERICANS HAVE LEGALIZED ABORTION. Whether you like it or not Christmas is the reason for the season. If you don't celebrate it, don't go to the work christmas party, don't take the time off, give back the bonuses. But don't you dare say that WE can't be used you bigot.

My education is in Marketing and I have read and study about product placement and other tools used in the industry for over 30 years…That bookcase was carefully staged that way. There is no way this was an accident. These people are playing for keeps and whoever thinks it was not put together that way is so naive it’s incredible. I say 10 points to the Hucky boy for the BUSS it has generated. That is my friend a great marketing strategy. FREE PUBLICITY and when you a running low in funds against someone like MITT this is great!!!

I never noticed a cross behind Gov Huckabee until somebody called the bookcase "a cross". Don't we have a sick society, though?

I much less worried about the non-existent "subliminal" cross than the explicit pandering to Christians he spoke out loud in the message.

Leave your Bible at home when you come to work Huckster. Thanks.

Good for Huckabee – wouldn't you want to have a candidate in office who will stand up for what they believe in. The reason everyone (including atheists) get vacation time at the end of December is because **wow** the majority of people are celebrating Christmas. For those that don't enjoy being wished a Merry Christmas, I also expect you to be at work on December 25th. And also, I am a Christian and I'm not going to wish someone a Merry anything else, regardless of their religion. If a Jewish person were to wish me a Happy Hanaukah, then I would respond with Merry Christmas. Its about being polite and respectful BOTH WAYS. Just because someone is in the minority does not mean that everyone else has to walk on egg shells around them to be politically correct.

If the man can not stand up and talk about his God then how can he stand and lead a country.

As for those of you who do not beleive in God, the father, the son (Christ), and the Holy Ghost….well, let's just say, one day you will!!!!!!!!!!

He may have just found himself some new supporters. God workd in mysterious ways – whether or not he meant for that to look like a cross, it does. Maybe God put it there. Anyway, I like the way he responded.

I don't understand the problem. Why is it controversial to have a Cross, whether intentional or not, in a Christmas message? Yet, the Cross is a symbol of Christianity, and Christmas is a Christian Holiday?

It never ceases to amaze me that these people who get all worked up over crosses and not saying Merry Christmas are the same people saying use of those words affect their freedom of speech. Give me a break…by complaining that I or anyone else is saying Merry Christmas …. is that NOT infringing upon my freedom of speech to say Merry Christmas?? If you expect to have freedom of speech then myself self as a Catholic Christian has just as much right to freedom of speech as those who don't believe is saying the words Merry Christmas. And Yes the holiday we are celebrating on Dec 25th is CHIRSTmas….that's how the holiday got it's origin. The 25th is the birthday of Jesus Christ. I guess we should change all of our holiday names to be politically correct as to not infringe upon everyone's freedom speech. Suggestions please, what should we say on St. Patrick's Day…Happy beer drinking day?? What about Easter? Happy Bunny and Egg Day?? Please provide me some suggestions, as I wouldn;t want to ruffle any feathers.

Some people really need to get a life

People see what they want to see. Those who saw a cross have too much time on their hands.

Apparently, anything (the cross) even remotely associated with Jesus Christ bothers many people. Why? Jesus is truth and when people see or hear anything remotely associated with the truth they rebel. They do not understand and/or do not want to know the truth. Truth either sets us free or convicts us.

It was "turn me on dead man," not "Paul is Dead," that you would hear if you played the Beatles' song backward. Perhaps Mr. Huckabee should get his facts straight before he tries to slough off a clearly subliminal message.

So, what if it was?

Merry Christmas!

God Bless us this Holiday!

WWJW?

Whom would Jesus waterboard?

*eyeroll* this clown doesn't seem to like people very much. and the last time i checked, corporations do a lot more to exploit and distort holidays, but you never see these religious people talk about that.

It appears pretty clear that the image of the cross was there on purpose with the 3 ornaments. Also if you look at the thickness of the shelves and the size of the ornaments, it is pretty clear that the image was added after the fact. If those ornaments are suppsoed to be on a shelf behind the tree — as it appears, then those are some huge ornaments. This clearly looks like an image that was purpsoefully placed there. Every element of ads like this are scruitinized by experts.

So, my question is — if it is so obvious, why is Huckabee playing stupid and denying any meaning to the shelf? Just admit what you or your editors did and the good intentions behind it? Why hide? There is nothing to be ashamed of in the symbol of the cross.

I can't believe that no one has noticed that Huck is "blinking" a message in Morse code. The translation is roughly "Democrats and liberals are THE DEVIL!"

Idiots. Find something constructive to do with your lives.

Sad, has CNN nothing better to report?

While I'm not for or against Huckabee, I, like him, think that it is intellectually offensive and ridiculous to say "Happy Holidays" when it is, in fact, Christmas. The overwhelming majority of people in this country celebrate Christmas and it was founded by Christians. Various ethnic groups have attempted to essentially steal the country's heritage from the majority and there is, and will continue to be, a growing backlash against that.

The United States was not founded on Christianity or any other religion. The Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and separation of Church and State, and provides that no religious test or oath may ever be used. God is not even mentioned in the national charter
No one wants to stop Christians or anyone else from enjoying Christmas. What most of us do want is for Christians to stop trying to shove their mythologies down our throats.

RE: Matt, Ny, NY

The actual % of Christians in the U.S. is 76.5%…and declining.

Merry CHRISTMAS! Merry CHRISTMAS! MERRY CHRISTMAS!

I have just the same right to celebrate what I believe as everyone else.

MERRY CHRISTMAS! MERRY CHRISTMAS! MERRY CHRISTMAS!

According to the BiBle the Birthday of Jesus Christ was in the spring. However, I would define Huckabee as more Anti Christian than Christian.

This is *definitely* intentional, and the message the ad sends is chilling: "we" are all Christians and there is no room for anyone else. As an atheist, I don't mind Christians celebrating Christmas, but I'd appreciate their not shoving their religious superstitions down my throat ("the reason for the season", indeed).

Enough is enough! It is a bookshelf! In addition, I would like to wish the Huckabee's a Merry Christmas. This is America and I'm a Christian as unpopular as that seems to be. I'm proud of the fact. If you don't like it, TOO BAD.. It's my CHOICE and it IS OK! Remember it is AMERICA!

Thats why I'm voting Huckabee!!

I commend Gov. Huckabee on his solid stance. You can be a politician and a christian at the same time. He can make decisions based on the law written in our constitution and still personally live a christian life.
Why does the media target Christians? If an anthiest or other religion such as Islam or Judiasm were to have their symbols in their add, no one would even comment. The Christians in this country need to be more vocal instead of letting the media ruin this culture by their biased comments. "Political correctness" has targeted Christians. This country and the constitution was founded on Christianity. It has slowly turned atheist with no definable culture. Thank you media for ruining our country.

Great comments from Mike Huckabee on the issue with the cross and saying Merry Christmas. Political Correctness is tearing the heart out of our country. I am so glad for what his come back was. Thanks you Mike Huckabee for your stand.

A good majority of the country celebrate Christmas. 90% of the population are Christians. Jews and Muslims also celebrate Christmas. They may not believe Jesus is the son of God but they beleive he is an important prophet in their religion.

Liberals hate Huckabee because they hate Christians and can't stand see a candidate devoted to his morals. Huckabee is not a Christian running for president, he is a great leader who happens to be Christian.

Anyone who wouldn't vote for Huckabbe because of his faith are the same bigots that wouldn't vote for Obama because he's black.

McCain/Huckabee in 2008

So what if it was a cross, it is Christmas isn't it??

My husband and I watched the CNN news last night and they had a poll of tell us what you think on the Mike Huckabee campaign ad. I couldn't find it, so I figured I would post it here. We think that it is great that he is not ashamed to tell everyone what he thinks about Christ-mas and that he is standing up for God, our Father, who this country was founded on. You'll get our vote. You go Mike!

I think people are looking into this too much. People are seeing what they want to see and beliving what they want to belive. How about just taking it for what it is and quit trying to analize the world.

We don't need another crazy evangelical conservative in the White House. Didn't you people learn that's not a good idea from the Bush Administration?

Wow – the Christmas tree and ornaments are just too obvious to attract attention then, right? The man is an admitted Christian. Why can't he have a cross behind him? Even if he would've done it on purpose, it would've been no surprise to me that he is a Christian. Plus, as I stated before – there is a BIG Christmas tree beside him that is certainly NOT subliminal!
Which begs the question…Why does anyone care that this man is a Mormon? I thought we had separation of church and state in this country.
It would appear that Dr. Martin Luther King's vision of being judged by the content of one's character is still unattained.

"God is not dead but alive and well and working on a much less ambitious project".

Anonymous, Graffito

"In religion and politics, people's beliefs and convictions are in almost every case gotten at second hand, and without examination."

Mark Twain

Where should I start, on the media who love to create "news" by making mountain-out-of-a-molehill stories that aren't even there, or on the liberals and athesists who can't tolerate religious freedom being practiced in America? In the first case, this is exactly why the American public has zero respect for the media today. In the second case, the non-Christian reaction to Christians exercising their inalienable rights clearly unmasks their falsely professed embracing of diversity and their outright bigotry.

I am so sick and tired of people (aka morons) being "offended" by everything – no matter what it is!! We have become a society of spineless people. Shame on all of you for being "offended" by things like this!!
What have we become? Why are we so sensitive? The guy is a Christian. Christians believe in the birth of Jesus. It is clearly a bookshelf but SO WHAT that it also looks like a cross. SO WHAT if it were placed there on purpose, though I think it wasn't. SO WHAT! Are we so shallow and mindless that we have to talk about things like this? IF YOU DON'T LIKE THE AD, CHANGE THE CHANNEL. AND IF YOU ARE SO OFFENDED BY CHIRST, YOU HAVE MUCH BIGGER PROBLEMS THAN A TV COMMERCIAL.

You filthy liberals and your THEORY of evolution!
I am sick and tired of hearing people using reason and scientific principles to make objective statements about reality.
There is no proof of evolution anywhere—much like radio waves—who has ever seen one?
Only an idiot would believe that radio exists.
You cannot see it!
X rays cannot be seen either.
X Ray technology does not exist!
No one has ever visited the sun.
Only an idiot would say that the sun actually exists!
He who has ears, let him hear.

Do Americans not know that Christianity is the religion on which this country was founded on? "ONE NATION UNDER GOD." It's amazing how after 2007 years, Jesus Christ still intimidates non-Christians. So what if that bookcase in the background is in the shape of a cross? If you have a problem with it, then you have the right, just as Huckabee does to put a cross shape in the background whether it was intentional or not, to vote for someone else. Get over it, and get on with your lives. Overanalyzing everything won't get you anywhere. Huckabee, just like every other American, has the freedom of religion, and if he chooses to wish everyone a "Merry Christmas" then so be it. And just FYI…the term "mass" is not just a Catholic term. Mass is actually defined as the dismissal at the end of a religious service. I doubt we would have "holiday" breaks if it weren't for Christmas…because I'm pretty positive no one gets off work for Hanukkah or Kwanzaa. Hopefully Americans will soon realize what this season is all about.

Calm down people, it is a book case.
a book case.
Not a political undermining of the Christians, but a book case.
I do have a question however, are the people that are all bent out of shape the same ones that are making the holidays so difficult to celebrate because of the offensiveness of saying Merry Christmas or Ho Ho Ho?
Calm down.
I think that there are more important issues in the world to get all bent out of shape about than a bookcase that had been purchased at IKEA.

Devine intervention…

War on Christmas? What war on Christmas??

I say, HOORAY FOR MIKE HUCKABEE, and shame on CNN for pushing one candidate down our throats whilst belittling all others. I thought the media were supposed to be unbiased

Western society seems to have fervently embraced the thought control mechanism of the defunct Soviet Russian state. We have simly renamed "the party line" as "political correctness". A former soviet subject did not dare express an opinion before he had read his latest daily copy of Pravda – "The Truth". Those who opposed this degrading situation could only express their disgust in the form of humor – a "crime" the soviet state stood ready to punish up to the death penalty. Our own ever changing version of "reality and truth" – "political correctness" is a carbon copy of the soviet version.
I do not personally observe Christmas at this time of year, but it is refreshing to observe Mr. Huckabee's humor and courage to poke fun at those "gods" of "political correctness" who have decreed that the word "Christmas" must henceforth be spelled "Holiday" ! ("Ignorance Is Strength !" – from the novel "1984″)

Funny how the 'haters' on here read more into a perceived "subliminal" message and won't believe arguably the most honest guy from either party when he says it wasn't intentional, but will jump in front of a bullet for a Clinton when one day they say: "I've been against Iraq all along", but the next day say, "Well, that's not what I meant!"

You dopes on here need to lighten up. This is a federal republic, not an anarchy as many of your comments advocating "being inclusive", as for separation of church and state, you should re-read the first amendment and search for a true understanding. Those that think the word catholic refers to a denomination when Christ-Mass is mentioned need to look at the root and origins of the word catholic, from the Greek meaning universal.

Ms Cubas from AZ –
As a former production person myself, I can assure you that NOTHING appears in a professionally produced video spot that is not clearly intended. Sublime as it may be, it was absolutely the intention of Huck to speak to We the Peeps at Christmas time with the cross behind him. How very touching. Yet he denies it on Today show. Another hypocritical liar running for office. Nothing more; nothing less.

How absurd that we would actually take time to point this out… i bet i can find Crosses just about everywhere.I just need to look for two intersecting lines …
there are those that would see just that .. intersecting lines… and not a Cross…
I wonder if the people that spotted the Cross are the same people that saw the Blessed Mother on a potato chip?
PLEASE let us focus on the issues
and not on ways to bash Chirstians.
Has anyone searched for subliminal messages in Mitt Romney's ads?

If you like hooky pandering or may I say HUCKY pandering then you are in HUCK heaven… this guy one day a couple of weeks ago was for lifting the Cuban embargo and the next he had to come to Miami for the Debate and OVERNIGHT he switched position and now he for the embargo… OH my god the pandering was shameful on how obvious it was and what a lip service…

John G. in Charleston, AWESOME POST:
"Are you guys serious? You're mad because he had a bookshelf that vaguely resembles a cross in his commercial?

What about windows in houses? They usually have 2 pieces of wood (or whatever) CROSSing in the middle. And how did you get through first grade math class? Those pesky plus signs are obviously a product of the religious nut jobs who pull the strings of the Republican (Christian) party…

With all of this Political Correctness weighing heavy on my mind I say MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!!!!"

Ditto; Merry Christmas!!

The first thing I thought when I saw the ad, before any of this broke, was that it looked like the bookshelf was intentionally lit up to resemble a cross. The way the camera slowly moved to put it into the center of the picture had to be either intentional or an eery coincidence. Mike's time in the spotlight, though, is almost up. The media darling, Rudy G., will be back center stage again soon. Thanks for playing, Huck.

John G. in Charleston, AWESOME RESPONSE:
<>
Ditto; Merry Christmas!

If the commercial message is about Christ and Christmas holiday, then what is the big deal even if there was an actual cross in the commercial….

The ad was filmed in a private home where they happened to have their Christmas tree placed in front of a built-in bookcase next to the fireplace. Not a studio where lighting was controlled and props were setup.

Like Huckabee himself, the background isn't a prop – it's real. Wow, imagine that.

From a stictly neutral standpoint, as I have no religious affliation, all I can say to this rehetoric is….FIND SOMETHING ELSE TO WHINE ABOUT!! I celebrate a holiday called Chistmas, it means different things to different people. Last time I check it wasnt against the law to say Merry Christmas. If you dont celebrate Christmas…SO WHAT? Take it as a nice gesture from someone wishing you a nice holiday. I am a devout democrat, and wouldnt vote for a republican if you paid me! I am offended by the people on here BASHING a fellow american over his ad. If someone didnt bring this "cross" to my attention, I wouldnt have noticed it…and now that I DO know…it really dont care. Neither should anyone else

if it were just a book shelf there would books on it therefore making it LOOK more like a book shelf and LESS like a cross.

This wouldn't such a big freaking deal if he had put a real cross up there… but dont try to sneak it in.

Sometimes a bookshelf is just a bookshelf . . .

There's nothing subliminal about it. There it is in plain sight, and yes, it is intentional.

Oops! I stand corrected…it's a shelf!!! And, for those who are not in the "we" group of those who celebrate Christmas, maybe you should work on that day Seems like you're reaping the benefit of something you don't believe in.

Not only is the cross apparent, but the three ornaments definitely appear to represent the trinity. How sneaky…

Hmm… suprised someone didn't reference the Trinity at the same time. Those Christmas balls next to the "cross" could be the Father, Son and the Holy Ghost… or COULD they? This is not a new tactic. The lectern at the last Republican National Convention displayed the Cross and no one apologized or even noticed. So why is this "subliminal" thing suddenly a big deal?

Hank Reardon for President!

Like it or hate it, this ad has done exactly what it was intended to do – rally conservative Christians against the "godless" leftists. He is now the candidate of Christians defending Christianity like some guardian angel. Yes, the bookcase was calculated. He played it off to make those who had issue with it look like crazy people so when the attacks came, he could play his faith defender role. This is what most GOP candidates do. They seek to draw a clear line between the God-fearing and those who question the church and the establishment. GOP – good Christians, Dems – bad atheists bent on destroying Christianity. It's a self-fulfilling prophecy of good vs evil… armageddon that any devout Christian will buy into and perpetuate because it's what they want to believe and accept as inevitable. Mindless sheep.

This is innocent, it's an 'X' on it's side, not a cross. A bookshelf. But lets face it: his christianity is his first priority. There's nothing wrong with this– unless you're running for office and will be tempted to impose your religion onto others. I wonder if he would answer this: since most all evangelicals believe that 'end of times' and 'second coming' mythologies are real, and that it is SUPPOSED to include horrific wars, natural disasters, ugly ugly ugly….until the christians 'win'——then where is the motivation to learn to resolve the global/religeo/political differences that cause all these wars? IF you thought you were doing 'god's will' and believe yourself a 'stepping stone' for the unfolding of prophecy….where's the incentive to try to find dialogue and get along with our 'enemies?'—Our current president believes he's doing the 'will of the lord' and prays to carry it out. This includes war and violence. But then again, many world leaders also believe the same thing: that they are doing the will of whatever god/allah/christ,etc. What's the difference. Why aren't people talking about this? If we keep electing proud religious leaders who think war is supposed to happen or that they're 'called' to be a part of the process, what's to stop them from silently condoning it all and sympathizing with the process, even praising the process? BinLaden thinks infidels/jihad. Bush thinks sinners/crusade. We don't hear about this stuff, except via Pat Robertson TV or accidental/idiot comments by mainstream politicians. Cant' we look at the Islamic leaders of the world to see the backwards wrongness of it all? Evangelical Christians are no different: that is, we're not ever really supposed to get along. Must we forget the atrocities made in the name of religion all over history? People: ask the unwelcomed questions, ask the religious questions, ask and wait for the foot in the mouth answers. Why don't the Christian leaders say it up front? Because they know how stupid it sounds. So, ASK….And I wish someone would run as a Secular Humanist–sadly, just saying the words would end the politicians career. Talk about backwards.

Go MIKE!!!!! These PC nuts can just sit back and watch as you win the general elect.!!!! Woohoo!!!

It's a window pane!!!!!!!

Oh my gosh!!! He talks about Jesus!!! He's not allowed to do that is he? All you PC people out there need to get a life. Most of this country is Christian. Get over it.

This is becoming more and more and more and more *&^%$# by the day. The guy's religious, a minister (with or without a degree – that means nothing), and may OR may not have had a window pane in the background that looks similar to a cross. This is like the little old man in Guatemala that makes a peanut butter and mango jelly sandwich and the oil from the jelly makes an imprint of Mary, and BINGO – it's a MIRACLE! Should Mike have had a slew of Star's of David (or is is Star of David's?), an Islamic crescent, and a Wiccan symbol also "imaged" behind him? What's next? Hillary with a "subliminal" HRT message for all her supporters, or John McCain "introducing a new anxiety medication for post-traumatic stress sufferers? Let's focus on the issues, for Christ sake….no wonder this whole process makes this country look like the joke it's becoming! And who's gonna get us the hell out of Iraq? I'm sure those soldiers and airmen could care less about who's got what "subliminally" in their campaign ads. Let's get real!

This is just another example of how CNN and the rest of the mass media have looked for anything possible to criticize Huckabee for. It really is sad that this is the news we get these days. It was an uplifting ad for a change, which of course some felt the need to spin into something negative. MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL.

Oh, and BTW, I notice CNN changed the picture to show how the "bookshelf" was more highlighted in the video. Their previous photo was clearly manipulated to make the "bookshelf" look unimportant.

Just what I want in another Presidency, more propaganda and another president calling people paranoid kooks when they see right through it.

If you want to run a campaign as a righteous Christian, you just might want to start acting like one. Lying is most certainly NOT Christian.

Way to go, Mike. Christmas, after all, IS Christ's Mass. If not for Christ, why would we even celebrate Christmas? Why would we even WANT to? Forget the Happy Holidays and let's celebrate the Merry HOLYDAYS. Christmas just ain't Christmas without CHRIST.

It's only been in the last 100 yrs that Christmas has been celebrated by Christians.
Posted By Dave, Kansas KS : December 18, 2007 6:41 pm

No problem with the rest of your little history lesson, but the above is just stupid. You're saying the first Christian Christmas celebration was in 1907, absolutely absurd.

And the fact of the matter is regardless of origins, Christmas today is a Christian holiday, if it weren't why are all the seculars so up-in-arms about it in the public venue.

this guy isn't try to reach out to all Americans necessarilly
Posted By Surrealist, Fort Myers, FL : December 19, 2007 8:28 am

Umm, excuse me, he's running for President, that's exactly what he's supposed to be doing.
Personally, I have no problem with his Christmas message, but Christians are not the only ones celebrating a holyday this time of year, and he came off as exclusionary.

ENOUGH! Huckabee.. not all of us worship your god, jesus, or even acknowledge them. I am not of your faith yet you and Romney continually shove Christian or Mormon religion down my throat as an essential part of your campaign.

Huge turn-off!

"When facism comes to America, it will be cloaked in the flag and carrying a cross". This man is dangerous.

And furthermore, if Huck wanted a cross in the shot, why not just put a cross in the shot? Why the sneakiness? Why the denial?

Is Huckabee actually ashamed of his religion?

And why is he pretending this isn't a political ad, but instead just a warm wishes to, oh, the early states?

That's the PROBLEM Huck-a-bots. Your candidate is slimy. He lies and manipulates, just like his supporters all over the internet.

Like always the media tries to make something out of nothing. It looks like a bookcase to me. Maybe if I look hard enough I can see a Jesus image in the background to. And the media wonders why nobody take them serious.

The christmas ornaments stacked on the left side of the shelves, and the lighting, are skillfully there to clearly portray a christian cross FROM bookshelves.

There is nothing wrong with a cross, the Governor could wear a cross around his neck for all I care, but lying to the news media is so sad.

I think it is so dishonest that Governor Huckabee, or his production team, won't fess up to the fact that the bookshelf was intentionally used to portray a cross in the television advertisement.

People are not stupid and this will unfortunately hurt the Governor since anyone that looked at the finished product could easily discern this issue well in advance.

It makes the Governor look either stupid or dishonest.

Huckabee is revealing himself to be every bit as phony as the other Republicans. He claims he does not want to discuss religion but constantly finds one way or another to rub our noses in it.
I want a candidate who will strongly support the Constitution's separation of Church and State. The last thing America needs is another dimwitted theocrat in the Oval Office.

To normal people; it's a shelf. To the liberals it's; The sky is falling, the sky is falling! Liberals eating their cheerios in the morning see a message in their spoon that says; oooo…

The very word Christmas comes from the contraction of 'Christ Mass' — the worship of Christ

Really? Seems for a VERY LONG TIME NOW it's been more a celebration of rampant consumerism, all in the name of fattening up the bottom line. Before you all go and claim one side of the aisle or political party as being the downfall of Christmas, you ought to look at what's REALLY trivializing and degrading what Christmas is truly all about.

The problem? Some Huck-bots are asking? The problem?

How about that Huckabee is flat out LYING!? How's THAT for a problem? It's an extremely serious problem for me and for millions of others looking to vote for someone they can trust.

If Huckabee is lying about something as simple as this, what else is he lying about? Actually, ALOT. And every time you look into this guy you see more and more lies.

Hardly a "christian" in my book. More like an opportunist.

You blew it once again for me, Mike.

Oh my God..He said Paul is dead..Is this a conspiracy to kill Ron Paul and take his campaign money? Obviously I'm being sarcastic..You people in the media are absolutely nuts. Merry Christmas!!!!!!!!

"some of the founders of this country and SIGNERS of the Declaration of Independence were men of ministry." — Jon from Plantation, FL.

Get our facts straight, I think you're the one that has to get your facts straight. I'm a Canadian and I know that none of the founding fathers were even religious let alone ministers. Most of them didn't even want a priest or minister on their death bed. Jon you should read more history books and not fairy tales like the Bible and other books you find in a church.

I feel bad for all of you below the 49th parallel. Your country is in ruins, the economy is barely afloat, your education and health care systems are of 3rd world quality, your government does whatever it wants, everyone is divided (just the way the Elite and the powerful want it), you've got people talking about religion when it is of no importance, your fighting wars for imperial dominance and oil and your country is afraid of terrorists that don't really exists(there is no real threat — if terrorists were as dangerous as our governments want us to believe than there would be attacks all the time but the fact is Islamist terrorists are nothing but a ruidmentary gang that don't have the means to inflict any real damage and remember just as many people die from guns each month in the U.S. has did on September 11th but you don't hear anything about that in the news) and the rich keep getting richer and the poor poorer. And you people are arguing about religion. Your country is just like the Romans and the Brits were before those empires fell (and need I say that every empire falls — so you should all come off your pedestal and let China takes its place). My fear is unlike the other two empires, you guys will probably kill us all and the worst part is you'll do it in the name of God. I'm sorry I'm rambling but I love Americans and everybody else in this world and that's why it so important you people get your house in order cause if you don't the next decade is going to make World War II look like Disney Land. It's time for America to accept its place in society as just another democratic country, no different than the rest. Democracy is a universal human trait not an Amercian one. That's a hard pill for most Americans to swallow. Anyways, I ramble to much. I don't care who wins the presidency, I just hope that he or she has some common sense and really does care about the peoople instead pretending like he or she does (which is what 99% of politicians do now).

If the atheists don't like relgion, why do they and the politically correct crowd feel the need to get in an uproar about this message? None of the other candidates have done this. I'm in no way a Huckabee follower, but at least he has the guts to come out and say "Merry Christmas" to everybody.

If the PC crowd and the atheists don't like what he has to say, don't listen.
I'm 37 years old and I remember a time when you could walk down the street at this time of year and tell a total stranger "Merry Christmas" and the greeting was gladly returned. Do that nowadays and you take the chance getting sued or worse.

Lets face some facts about the US. Maryland-started by Catholics; Massachussetts-started by Protestants;Florida-founded by the Spanish, who just happen to be Catholic;Louisana-started by the French who at the time were ardent Catholics. For the PC crowd and the Atheists to say that the US isn't a Christian Nation just shows that they don't read very much US History.

By the way, the First Amendent says that Congress won't establish a national religon. There is no clause or paragraph in the Constitution calling for the seperation of church and state. So the PC crowd and the atheists need to go back and read the Constitution again.

If memory serves, Ramadan starts latter this month going into January. To the Muslims citizens of our country, enjoy your celebrations openly and loudly. To our Jewish citizens, make those eight candles blaze gloriously during Hanaukah. To every Christian citizen, have a happy and loud Merry Christmas and lets take back the holiday season from the people who have nothing better to do than whine and complain about nothing.

I must be really naive because I grew up with the impression that you celebrate what you chose or what is prevelant to your faith…otherwise just don't celebrate. Just as some people feel they shouldn't have to hear "Merry Christmas", I feel like it is my right to say it. It has to work both ways. Changing things to hinder one group to make another more comfortable doesn't make sense to me…it's doing the same thing. I guess i'm just confused. I don't understand what is so offensive about christmas…I have never taken offense to any other religious holidays celebrated by those of other faiths. To each their own…

Merry Christmas!

The ad, Merry Christmas, was not, Merry Christmas, subliminal at all. Merry Christmas..

You athiests posting on here are ridiculous. Most people still celebrate Christmas, and presidents are no exception. They have all carried their religious beliefs to the oval office in one form or another for 200 years, and our country turned out pretty good. Get a friggin' life!

If it weren't intentional you would highlight the tree in the background, not the shelf that looks like a cross, and then pan around his head so it's always in frame. The shelf is clearly, clearly meant to look like a cross. And you cannot in this day and age of political marketing was not meant to be there. I thought Christians were supposed to be honest and forthright in all they do, not deceptive. I don't care if he wants to run as a Christian or say Merry Xmas, that's all free speech, but don't say one thing and do another. That's not even "Christian".

You know we're all getting a bit too riled up about this Merry Christmas/Happy Holiday's deal. I propose that we all just do this and move on. Why can't we all (the givers) just wish folks the joy of the season using the holiday we individually celebrate. The recipient of the greeting can accept that as our heart felt wishes for whatever holiday they celebrate and nothing more. It could be universal and no one should be offended and everyone should just appreciates the well wishes of another sincere, honest, and caring individual.

Corky of west palm beach, florida. No, I don't think that it is "awesome" that I have a "right" to choose. I'm assuming that you mean the right to vote. Big deal. To choose what? Between the Tweedledee and Tweedledum candidates the Repubs and Demos will push at us in November 2008? Regardless of what we want and what we think, we will have only those candidates that have passed the muster of the Establishment. Those who promote real change, or MUCH BETTER STILL, a return to a Republic under the Constitution, won't have a chance at either the Republican or Democratic nomination.

When I went to public school in the early 1960's, we were supposed to thrust out our chests and feel superior to the Soviet Union, which allowed its citizens to vote for the communist of the Party's choice. One party, one candidate. How, pray tell, is our system superior to that, except that we allow two candidates of the Establishment parties' choice.

Democracy is a joke and majority rule is tyranny, pure and simple. What matters is the individual liberties that our Founding Fathers intended to secure for us through a Republic based upon the Constitution and buffered by the Bill of Rights. If we were still free, really free, it wouldn't matter who was sitting in the Oval office at the end of January 2009.

How many of you people who are having a fit about the word Christmas are going in to work on December 25? Shouldn't you tell your boss, excuse me sir/madam, I don't celebrate Christmas, so therefore I will be coming in to work on Tuesday. I seriously doubt that many people do. If your neighbor gives you a Christmas card, do you throw it back at them? Do you refuse gifts?

Even if you don't believe in Jesus, don't celebrate Christmas, I'm sure you have no problem reaping the benefits of it.

While watching this, I also saw a goat drinking a can of beer, an otter and a duck doing the mambo on a pond, and a woman without teeth who couldn't stop smiling. LOL Just kidding…never even seen the ad and don't want to see it. No one, including me, takes this guys seriously. He's still insignificant in the grand scheme of things. Oh, wait, there's a blindfolde donkey playing hopscotch in the foreground! LOL Thank you…I'll be here all week!

I can't believe you at CNN would lend credence to this by publishing it….hmmmm..on second thought, yes I can. On top of this hoopla, Britney's 16 year old sister is pregnant…whoopie dodo…imagine this will be making the front page now on CNN!!!

GIVE ME A BREAK!! I'm a Democrat, but the people complaining about Huckabee injecting religion into politics by mentioning Crist, at Christimas time no less, will obviously complain about anything. And the floating cross? Maybe they want to ban all objects that intersect at 90 degrees. How paranoid!!

IT'S A &%@!? BOOKCASE!!!!!

Geez, if this guy new he was going on tv he should have taken down his bookshelf, not killed a tree and saved the environment by using LED lights on it.
This all seems to me that people dont have enough to worry about in there own lives

As an atheist (married to a believer) what I can ssy about religion is this – I don't have an issue with anyone believing in god . My problem is with those believing trying to force it down my throat. Believe or not – it's up to you or me. When people wish me Merry Christmas I say same to you. I don't offer it, but I don't repudiate it either. Religion or the lack thereof should be private. That includes those running for public office.

It is amazing to me that CNN, which is not a news reporting organization but an advertising company, reports this "cross" in the ad blithely as news. CNN's news reporting is designed for one and only one reason: to sell as much advertising as possible at the highest possible price. The ads that CNN runs by the thousands every day are filled with such suggestive images. How can anyone be surprised by this simple technique? Does the technique work? Of course it does. It sells insurance, razor blades, and political candidates very effectively. It is used on us by those we do business with. It is not a friendly thing to do.

As for those who are arguing that a cross is appropriate at Christmas time, I think it is fine to use crosses in Christmas art, but I don't like it in advertising, whether the merchandise being sold is a candidate, a life insurance policy, or a car. The cross suggests eternal life, victory over the grave, holiness, and saintliness. Using it cheapens our cultural symbols.

A final comment to those who are grumpy about the absence of Christ in Christmas and the phrase "Happy Holidays" instead of "Merry Christmas," I suggest that you put a cork in your cranberry-hole. Christmas is not your personal property. You do not own the copyright, the patent, or the trademark to Christmas. I own it as much as you do. If I prefer a secular holiday to a religious one, then I can certainly have one. The whole secular Christmas thing is simply a method by which retailers try to sell stuff to non-Christians. All of you evangelistic fundamentalists vote for the people who support "free market" policies, in which corporations are pretty much free to do anything they want to. It is the retailers who are stealing your holiday, not the Liberals. The legitimate targets for your criticism are Walmart, KMart, Penney's, Target, and that crowd, not the ACLU.

I probably won't vote for Governor Huckabee for a lot of reasons, but this is not one of them. It's a BOOKSHELF people!

The message is so obvious that it sickens me to my stomach.

We DON'T ALL celebrate Christmas. this guy is a nutcase. There are other religious holidays around hucky. You won't get elected buddy, you are no match for ANY of the Democrat contenders, especially Clinton or Obama. Just do yourself and your supporters a favor and go home.

"Paul is Dead, Paul is Dead, Paul is dead," the Politician shot back wittily, a double entendre also referencing Paul on Fox and Friends quoting Sinclair Lewis, "When fascism comes to America, it will be wrapped in a flag and carrying a cross."

While I don't think the bookshelf thing was intentional, Huckabee's comments are downright scary. He apparently believes that all Americans do (or should) worship Christ. It is this kind of closed-mindedness that leads to intolerence and persecution. While I'm not ready to compare him to Adolf Hitler, these comments certainly seem in-line wiith his ideology and should serve as a wake-up call.

I urge my fellow Americans to steer clear of this candidate- he is not what we need to recover from the Bush era.

What the heck is wrong with a candidate sending out a Christmas video? Look, this guy isn't try to reach out to all Americans necessarilly–so don't be upset when he leaves those others out. The point here is this: HE IS CHOOSING THIS MANNER TO COMMUNICATE TO THE CONSTITUENTS–EVALUATE FOR YOURSELVES AS TO HIS "INTENTIONS" AND "JUDGEMENT". For my 2 cents, I'm voting with my feet and RUNNING to the John Edwards booth!

How difficult would it have been to say "Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all?"

By saying this is what "we" celebrate, he is saying "these people are with me and the rest of you don't count."

Bad move. I am a Pagan… and I vote… and you don't get mine, Mr. Huckabee.

Unfortunately the news about the Dem's capitulation to Bush over Iraq funding yesterday is not headline news for this blog site.

As soon as the elections office is open in my So. Oregon county, I am changing my voter's registration to Independent. This means I can't vote my heart in Oregon's primary election because Independents are not allowed to vote for anyone of any party in the primaries (seems illegal to me). But I just don't want to wait until May to switch.

I am beyond ashamed of my Dem party that I have been a member of since 1960. Cowards all. Do you have grandkids? They will probably be fighting in Iraq someday.

No. It's not subliminal. It's very carefully planned and filmed.

We're in big trouble, people.

A subliminal cross, really? Come on people it's a freakin' bookshelf whoever thought it was a subliminal cross is really grasping at straws here. How scared of Huckabee do you have to be to pull this one?

I do take issue with his explaination of "I don’t know what else to call Christmas, last time I checked that is what we celebrate." If you want to wish folks a Merry Christmas I have no problem with that but don't try to say that it's what "we" celebrate, I know I don't celebrate it so don't lump me in there. If you wanted to say that it's what YOU celebrate then that would have been fine.

This whole PC "everyone must say 'Happy Holidays' rather than 'Merry Christmas'" is just as insane as the claim that there is a war on Christmas everytime someone says 'Happy Holidays'. Newsflash everyone there are multiple Holidays going on this time of year, recently Thanksgiving and Hanukah and next week is Christmas and Kwanzaa followed by New Years. So there are multiple Holidays what is wrong with someone covering all of their bases when talking with someone in public, it's not like you can tell what Holidays a particular person celebrates simply by looking at them.

That being said I still take no offense if someone wishes me a Merry Christmas even though I don't celebrate it, I simply nod my head and say "You too."

Planned or not, it worked out that a symbol of a cross appeared in the ad. This is Christmas and we are celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior who died for us ON A CROSS. My gripe is that he just should have said, "yea,the bookshelf happened to form the shape of a cross when we taped it. I did not see any harm in keeping it in." But like a professional politician, he had to try and blow smoke up my kooloo by acting like they had not even realised the cross was there. You get a refrigerator magnet for the effort Mike, but not my vote.

You people are giving Huckabee far too much credit, the dude about half as sharp as Bush, who is brain dead.

In an age where every nuiance of an ad is scrutinzed, it's not believable that the effect of the bookshelf lighting in this ad was there intentionally. This candidate is running on his faith pandering to the religious right and other Christian sects. A cross behind him as he discusses Christmas, there by accident, come on we all didn't fall off a turnup truck in Arkansas, some of us have the ability to use critical thinking processes, duh, 1+1=2.

The art of plausible denial is as lost today as the mysteries of windsor knots and one-handed bra removal were back in the '60s.

When are people going to wake up and realize that this guy is plain dangerous. If he gets the job (which I doubt he will, but you never know), we might as well issue our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan white overcoats with the knight's templar insignia and declare this the third holy crusade.

All hail the flying spaghetti monster.

Another non-story………..

Merry Christmas and happy New Year.

I am sick and tired of all the religious comments and topics brought up in this election. I am wondering now is this a presidential election or a papal conclave? Since when is religion the main issue to talk about. First it is Huckabee’s claims that he is the real christian and the rest of the candidates are not as much of a devout christian as himself, next it is Romney's speech about his faith, and in between all they are discussing is their religious beliefs! Who cares about their biblical inerrancy beliefs or mormon faith? This is a secular country where religion should not be part of public discussion let alone of a presidential campaign. Don't they have anything else to talk about but crosses, christ, bibles, scripture and personal religious beliefs?

If people don't agree with the use of the word Christmas, why do they participate in the festivities? What exactly are they celebrating? They shouldn't have days off from work(with pay), shouldn't gather for Christmas meals with family, shouldn't exchange gifts. It should be just another day for these people who become hypocrites for complaining about Christ.

While the royal use of the word 'we' was not appropriate, it is in fact Christmas that is celebrated on December 25th. If people want to celebrate the winter solstice or any other holiday at that time go for it. However, as I've read in other comments people do not get the day off from work and/or school for the winter solstice, only for the celebration of Christmas. So if I want to say to someone "Merry Christmas" that should be my right. As it is the right of anyone else to say "Merry (insert holiday)".

Again, Christmas is what this particular holiday is about. Christians celebrate the birth of our Lord, we should not be discriminated against just because we're Christians. Just as I believe that no other faith tradition should be discriminated against.

BTW: I consider myself a liberal and will vote democrate so this is not in support of Mr Huckabee's political stance, just in his right to say "Merry Christmas".

That ain't no ad for Oak Express.

The image looks like that of a Sunday morning televangelist.

Mike's reputation for truthiness just went in the toilet.

Right next to Rudy's.

Abandon all hope, ye who enter there.

This is all blown out or proportion, and is a little sad that some people are so "out for Huck" that they will go to any length to attack him. It is a bookshelf and nothing more. Is it because of the latest polls or the fact that he has spent so much less money than the other's and is still at the top that you are upset? I do not remember the negative stuff when he wasn't ahead. Must be.
The thing I like about Mike is that he has convictions about life and his faith.
Go Mike!

I think Mr. Huckabee is saying some of the things alot of the majority would like to say but can't because we do not want to offend anybody and therefore be accused of being a racist or insensitive when we just want to celebrate one of our most cherished holidays. I also think he will be getting my vote for President of the United States of America. Merry Christmas to all!

Glad he said it. Christmas is about the birth of Christ. If you don't like it get over it.

Everyone from Rapper's to Aunt Alice wear a Cross pendant around their neck … and it's all good.

Yet, when we see a horizontal and vertical board intersect on a bookcase, we feel guilty!

Whether you are Democrate, or Republican, removing the cross does not remove the reason behind the cross.

Merry Christmas … oh, and do have a Happy Holiday also.

AMEN! It's about time a Politician said what is really important. He is talking about a Christian based message, that HE is celebrating Christmas NOT Happy Holidays as most of sales stores are trying to sell people. I for one am glad someone has the guts to tell it like it is. This Great country was based on the Christian faith, but with a few minorities, the Goverment is trying to cater to these people by Taking OUR religion away from US! They are removing GOD from our schools, and Court houses and all Official buildings, so It's about time a Politician said what he is really feeling. Thanks Mike!! I will pray for you!!

Who cares! If it was a cross, which it isn't, CROSSES GO WITH CHRIST MAS.

People, Christ Mas is a religious holiday.

Christianity, and white males. The only two things you can openly discriminate against!!

I think this is probably just a message from Jesus, letting us know which candidate he picks…..hahahahahahahahaha!!!You're a crafty man, Mike Huckabee. I agree with Jeff- well played.

Good for Mike Huckabee! Better watch out, Mike, like Lennon said " Christ you know it a'nt easy, you know how hard it can be. The way things are going, they're going to crucify me". Merry Christmas

Mr. Huckabee is wrong if he thinks the American public is so naive as to think that every aspect of a political ad isn't scrutinized before it is put out to the public. It was misguided of him to do it in the first place and now it is down right insulting of him to assume that he can pretend the whole the was just coincidental .

Thanking Mr. Huckabee for the well wishes.

If only we could put aside the requirement for gift giving, but still present gifts to the children on the eight or twelve days of the season, and give a christmas feast away with the funds which would be spent on the presents for the alternating adults, so funding a meal for those less fortunate.

When is Mosesmas?

As someone who has spent thirty years in advertising I can assure you that there is nothing accidental about the cross imagery displayed. Set design is never casual or ill-considered.
Draw your own conclusions about the sincerity of his denial.

I have absolutely NO problem with a Christmas ad that features a panning not-so-ssubliminal cross. My issue is his blatantly LYING about it. Rather than simply saying "meh…Im a Christian..did this neat-o lighting effect after all its CHRISTmas…deal with it" he rather puts ridicule on anyone with half a brain who KNOWS that nothing in a political ad is "by chance" by referring to them as "Paul is Dead" Beatles geeks. It speaks volumes about the kinds of dishonesty we could expect from a Huckabee Presidency. He hides his LIE by saying "you just dont like Jesus" and we aint buying it- LOVING the sinner and HATING the sin atm in Washington

I support Mr. Huckabee. Whether it was a plan messege or not, it is the basic principle on which this country was found. Why is it ok to downgrade the Christians, but we don't to the other religions. No one get upset about that. I beleve that this country has turned its back on the true reason for the Christmas Season. Christ. It is time to bring back Christ in Christ. Perhaps that is what Mr. Huckabee is doing.

I don't care much for Huckabee, but at the same time, christians should be allowed to be celebrate Christmas publicly without people complaining that we are forcing Christianity down their throats.

You know what I have to say about it… I don't believe homosexuality is right, but I DO believe that homosexuals should have the right to express themselves. Ever heard of the gay pride parade.

Other belief systems celebrate their uniqueness, but whenever we try to express our faith in god we get hounded over it.

Face it, our country was formed from protestants who were trying to escape the religious persecution of the day.

Everyone should be happy that we have this time to celebrate our uniqueness and the blessing we have to have our personal freedoms. Celebrate to what, whom you may. Have a great HOLIDAY season!

The person in this ticker with knowledge of the true facts is Dave from Kansas, the Romans celebrated this time of the year for their harvest and exchanged gifts in return, the Christians of the time became jealous and started the same tradition with the exception of adding the 25th of December as the birth of Christ. No one knows exactly when Christ was born, it says in the bible that it was cold. For Christians to herald this day as their own is just plain wrong. People read your history!

What a hick.

You can't be serious that this is conisered worthy of NEWS..this article is running over Star Magazines territory…so if we're going to run with the conspiracy idea…might as well include the 3 balls in the background too…I'm sure they picked up that that's subliminal imagery supporting the Trinity of the Christian faith (note: saracasm).

Unfortunately I am not the least bit surprised that such an allegation arose from something so nonsensical. It is truly sad that even the simplest of things can't be conveyed to your fellow citizens these days without having someone in enter an uproar. Even in reading some of the responses to this story I am seeing more partisan prejudice than anything else; yet another travesty. I suppose the only way to avoid something like this would be to have Huckabee standing in front of a white wall wishing everyone a happy chrannukwanza. But then I suppose the white wall would be a race issue.

With all the pressing problems in today's world such as war, poverty and millions without medical coverage, I find this current debate to be meaningless. I do however wonder how America would react if instead of an ordained minister a Catholic priest or Rabbi were running for office? Can you imagine the howls from our Evangelical friends? I know, that's different.

First, it's a bookshelf. If it is a subliminal message it's well done, bravo and all that.

However, it does gall me that the Republicans have been the "Party of Faith" for years now but push a Book of Revelations foreign policy. Now that an actual Christian runs for President the movement conservatives are afraid he'll undo all of the very *anti-christian* domestic policies they've put into place.

That having been said I'm not christian (nice book, lot's of good teachings on morality but I don't believe in ghosts, holy or otherwise) and I think Huckabee would make a mediocre President although frankly anyone will look good after GW.

Christmas is a Christian holiday, and we have the right to celebrate it, even if we are the majority faith in this country. I find this tip-toeing about trying not to offend someone offensive. Say "Happy Holidays," if it makes you more comfortable, but I DO NOT celebrate "the Sparkle Season," Pittsburgh, and I am NOT taking "a Winter Holiday," Mr. Employer. I am celebrating Christmas, the anniversary of my Savior's birth. When I wish you "Merry Christmas," I have only the best for you in mind.

It irks me when people say Christmas originated as a Christian holiday, when it was clearly stolen from the pagan holiday Yuletide in order to get more pagans to join the Church during the Dark Ages. Christ wasn't even born on that day, its just an astrological thing.
By the way; it was called 'the Dark Ages' when Christianity ruled Europe for a _reason_. We do not want this happening again, and that is why I am against clergy of any religion (even my own) becoming the leader.

From a Liberal Democrat. I don't see anything wrong with Huckabee's message. So he's a Christian..so was Carter and Clinton. Both Southern Baptist. Hillary is a Christian. Usually Democrats don't jump up and down and yell..Hey look at us..we are Christians. I don't think Jesus would like that.

Some people need to get a life. It's a bookshelf, if some people see a cross than maybe they want to see a cross. I see a bookshelf. Come on America, don't we have alot of other issues we need to worry about?

The former Baptist minister also shot back at some who said the spot should have been more inclusive, and that he should have wished voters “Happy Holidays.”

“The very word Christmas comes from the contraction of 'Christ Mass' — the worship of Christ – again, change the word if we don't want to talk about it, but that’s what it symbolizes and represents.”

Well, if that is really how Christmas got it's name, why don't we settle all of this anti-Christmas crap right now and call it something that is named after what it is really about now days. How about "Salmas"? You know, a contraction of 'Sale Mass'.

It's interesting that so many people spend so much time trying to find a possible link to religion in politics, schools, shopping malls, or anywhere especially during this time of year. Obviously THERE IS a link! If they don't want to hear or see things that have to do with CHRISTMAS then why spend so much time LOOKING for it? Just ignore the concept and pretend it doesn't exist; or are they really looking for something more?

Almost 80% of Americans identify as Christians, what's wrong with trampling the rights of the tiny minority of only 60,000,000 non-Christians.

Of course, you need to be the right kind of Christian, since Huckabee himself has said recently that he isn't sure that Mormon's don't revere Satan.

Yes, we have the option of an American Theocracy, a Christian Dictatorship with all of the hate, intolerance and violence that so many other parts of the world have to live with every day.

Or we could try Freedom. The courage and the faith in the American spirit that has kept political religions from controlling our government and our lives for 230 yeats. The choice is ours.

Political correctness is for shmucks.

I wish my Muslim friends Eid Mubarak and they reply back with the same words, although I am Christian, and neither of us feel any offence.

On Christmas, there is absolutely nothing with wishing others Merry Christmas, for that is what it is – Christmas!

Why on earth should it cause offence to anyone unless they are so paranoid and shallow they don't deserve to be taken into account for anything.

I was having a tough time on who to back for the next election and now I am sure. It is Mike Huckabee! I am sick of main stream media trying to create stories that are not there. It's a bookshelf!

All I can add is Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all

I think Mr Huckabee has for me hit the nail on the head. For those folks who wish not to celebrate Christmas they need not but to attempt all this political correctness with Happy Holidys seems to me to tell those of us who do celebrate Christmas the we should not enjoy our freedom of religion as our past battles for freedom granted us. Thank you Mr Huckabee for having the courage of your convictions.

Please note subliminal is defined as "below the threshold of conscious perception" Since the "cross" was perceived, than the "cross" was not subliminal. A better word is overt or open to view : readily perceived . The use of subliminal is an editorialized word that shades Huckabee's actions as "underhanded" or "manipulative." Huckabee doesn't hide his faith in his speech, so why would a reporter think that he would hide his faith in a Merry Christmas message? Maybe the reporters need to get a hint from the overt language of Gov. Huckabee and have a Merry Christmas. The Christmas story is about Christ's birth anyway, Easter is about his death and resurrection.(Does anyone know of a book shelf that doesn't have intersecting right angles?)The Christmas tree isn't subliminal, but the book shelf is, huh? Perhaps Huckabee should have had a picture of an empty tomb!

Whoever is seeing images in the background and making a federal case out of it needs mental help. They obviously have an agenda and are wasting our precious time. With other gigantic issues looming, why waste time on trivial stuff?

you people keep forgetting what this country was founded on GOD if you don't like it get over it .CHRISTMAS is what it is the celebration of the birth of our lord and savior i say merry christmas and always will…….. MERRY CHRISTMAS…….

First let me state, the phrase 'Seperation of church and state' is meant to keep state oout of church, not church out of state. Second, that is clearly a bookshelf. Third what if it is a cross? It represents what christ died on for the christians, jews, muslims, buddhists, hindus, atheists, blakcs, whites, asian, europeans, conservative, liberal, republican, democrat. Fourth, If you don't like Christmas then don't celebrate…don't give or recieve any presents, go to work, don't spend your money at the after christmas sales, don't think about eating that christmas tree cookie at the office party…oh wait you be there either. its CHRISTmas for a reason, that reason is a tiny baby born some 2000 years ago who sent here to die for you. And to everyone who doesn't believe in god or simply refuses to, i have one question…If you are are right, what have I lost? nothing. But if I am right, what have you lost? everything

HUCKABEE IS NOTHING BUT A SLEAZY
SALESMAN. HE'S SELLING RELIGION.
AND PEOPLE WORRY ABOUT MORMONS?!!!?
WHAT'S PAUL IS DEAD??…WISHFUL
THINKING?? HUCKABEE IS PRO WAR…
PRO DEATH & DESTRUCTION… SOFT
ON CRIME… SOFT ON ILLEGALS…
HAS A SON WHO BELIEVES IN TORTURE..
THE APPLE DOESN'T FALL FAR FROM THE
TREE. HE RAISED TAXES AS GOVERNOR.
HE'S NOT CONSERVATIVE. DO WE WANT
4 YEARS OF THIS? WHY NOT JUST
REELECT BUSH???

OH for pity sake;give me a break, how ridiculous. Enough with the mud-slinging;get back to the real topics that are important,like border security & illegal immigrants taking US citizens' jobs,child health insurance, education,and senior-citizen prescription assistance.
Leave Religion OUT of politics!Remember separation of Church and State or doesn't anyone adhere to the Constitution anymore?!

"Paul is Dead…"? What does that mean? The man is strange to say the least. He better watch what he says or the Ron Paul supportes will be flying that blimp his way.

Good Golly its Chrsitmas on my Calender. I get Christmas Day off at work and paid for it. EVEN IF I DONT CELEBRATE IT.

So yeah, MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!!

Any you know what.. I am offended that your are offended that I wished you ALL a Merry Chirstmas.

Remember when it was about Santa and good tidings and turkey dinner and Presents, lots of presents. The pretty tree, family, bad eggnog and yucky dry fruitcake, scary sweaters….

Cant we all just be….
Im not Chirstian.. Hindu or Alien. Im me and I celebrate Christmas and I am proud of it!!! Give me presents or give me death!!

What cross? All I see is a shelving unit and Christmas regalia.
Now get on to something important like the public schools accommodating the Muslims, Arabs or whom ever, with a foot wash on public school property.
That is unconstitutional and not subliminal!
Don’t Mess with Texas or the Christian USA
MERRY CHRISTMAS, tis the reason for the Season and none other.

Huckabee is not running for President of the Christians.

He is running for President of the United States. While the United States may be primarily Christian, it is not exclusively Christian. I'm looking for a President who is concerned with all Americans.

And, to Patti from Brookhaven, MS, for the last several decades I have volunteered to work Christmas, as well as Easter, so that those who celebrate these holidays may have the time off to be with their families.

I have also been known to cover for co-workers celebrating Kwanza, Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur, Hanukkah, MLK day and Cinco de Mayo.

Christmas was not a holiday in the early history of the United States and was actually illegal in Boston from 1659 to 1681.

Congress was in session on December 25, 1789, the first Christmas under America's new constitution.

Christmas was not declared a federal holiday in the United States until 1870. Not so very long ago, actually.

Many of the traditions now associated with Christmas such as holly, ivy, mistletoe, trees, feasting, yule logs and the giving of gifts date back to pre-Christian times when the solstice and the return of the sun were celebrated in December.

While many celebrate Christmas, many others celebrate different holidays in December.

To wish someone "Happy Holidays" is not a curse but a statement that you hope the other person's celebration will be happy for whatever and however they celebrate.

The wish of Happy Holidays includes everyone. Even those who seek to exclude others.

Happy holidays to one and all!

Nice free advertising for Huckabee! Since everybody's talking about this earthshattering controversy, it's the most blogged video according to Google. Which means – when anyone goes to Google video search the commercial automatically starts playing. And Mike H. doesn't even have to pay for it.

Exciting new approach to viral marketing. Do you suppose the Huckabee campaign planned the whole cross controversy just to get lots of views? Should there be regulation of campaign online commercials, as there is of television ads?

For now, it's just mighty strange to go to Google video search and have Mike Huckabee wish me a Merry Christmas…

Critics say "Huckabee's a hack." Rolling Stone calls him a "muppet" Two thumbs down for this neo-con nutjob.

I am Catholic and I don't beleive in all these megachurces that call themselves christians, they are far from it. I respect those that celebrate Christmas as I do as well as all other religions and what they celebrate isn't that what America is about. I believe its the so called christians that create this false religion to hide their hatred for everyone who doesn't agree with them, kind of like the way the fundementals muslims are doing.

Huckabee is a joke. He is a con artist like no one else. The cross was accidental and his son was doing a humane thing by putting the dog down, by hanging it from a tree. Wow. Who in their right mind would vote for this guy. He has overplayed his hand and is done for it.

"If they don't believe in Christmas they need not have parties and take this time off of work."

some of us are celebrating the pagan festivals..

as are christians they just dont know it…

Who are these unnamed critics and what is their criticism? Do they really exist or are they just figments of Huckabee's imagination? There's no way to tell, because this story doesn't say.

Why are people getting all upset over this? Isn't that what most 'Christmas' cards say – 'Merry Christmas and Happy New Year'. I guess some people wants to make peace and some just want to pick a fight. There's nothing wrong with what he said. Thank you Huckabee for explain what that word means. I didn't know the origin of that word. Interesting.

No professional director, photographer/videographer, or editor would see this composition – with decorative tree and luminous 'cross shape' elements – as anything less than suggestive of a Christian-bent message.

Does that matter? Did Huck call for this specifically?

I dunno or care, but any 'pro' producing this spot for him can't say that they 'missed' it.

This is news?? Why did I take the time to respond?

Why do people even argue about religion? I think that anybody that argues over a religion or fights over a religion is so unsure of thier faith that they figure by fighting over it makes them feel religious and closer to God. There is no such thing as a religion, man created religion and then started wars to try and force other races to submit to a certain religion. Everyone just needs to get a life, live and let live. Stop trying to make me believe like you do!!!

This is absolutely the most ridiculous thing I have heard all year.

Way to go, Mike! Finally! Someone willing to stand up to the Politically-corret left and tell it like it is! Y'know, there is nothing wrong with celebrating our differences. Isn't it the liberals that say we should "embrace our diversity"? Oh wait! That doesn't go for Christians and conservatives! Sorry about that. Keep doing what you are doing. It's making you stand apart from the field in different, positive way. At a time when America's collective self-esteem is at an all-time low, this nation needs someone who will stand up and and now be afraid or ashamed of who they are or where they come from.

Christmas to me is time to celebrate the Birth of Jesus Christ. To others it may mean something else. We have become to PC in this world. If you dont' celebrate something, then the message is not for you. I tell everyone Merry Christmas, not to offend anyone, but to just wish them a Merry Christmas. Just be happy! Oh and I want World Peace too!

Does anyone else get the feeling that this is a completely manufactured, hyped-up publicity stunt designed to garner publicity and whip the right wing into a complete frenzy?

Christians, take a memo: THERE IS NOT A WAR ON CHRISTMAS! No one wants to do away with Christmas. No one wants to take your Christmas from you. We'd just like it if you kept it within the religious sphere of society, not in the government sphere of society. We are tired of your war on secularism. Thomas Jefferson wasn't kidding when he said there should be a 'wall of separation' between church and state. I don't think the Founding Fathers could have been any more specific than that. It’s not that liberals are intolerant of your religion, it’s that we’re intolerant of you forcing it upon us by means of the government.
Also, for those of you who just keep going on about the majority, please keep in mind that in a Madisonian model (you know Madison, he’s the father of the Constitution), the system is set up to prevent a tyranny of the majority. When we ignore this basic tenet of our Constitution, we are undermining all that it means to be American. Here’s the minority rights scenario I give my US Government 101 students: pretend you (a Christian) have been arrested in a Muslim country. You are taken to a courtroom in which there are quotes from the Koran inscribed on the walls and you are being tried by a religious cleric. Would you feel that you are getting a fair trial? Now put the shoe on the other foot – if you were Muslim & walked into an American courtroom in which the 10 Commandments were posted, would you think you were going to get a fair trial?
The long and the short is this: the rights of the majority do not supersede the rights of the minority.

Nothing appears in an ad like this by mistake. Every last detail is planned for, checked on, re-checked, and finalized. The real insult here isn't the cross — Gov. Huckabee is free to worship whomever, whatever, and however he wants. He is also free to share his religious beliefs with anyone that is willing to listen. The real insult is that he believes Americans are naieve enough to believe that a tv spot in a hotly contested primary in a key early state would ever be "last minute and ad-libbed." That's just laughable, and if he thinks you'll buy that, what else will he try to sell you?

The next thing you know, bookshelves won't be allowed in any political ads.

Didn't one of the democrats mention he believed in Jesus the other day.
Why wasn't there an outcry over that.
Americans should be able to believe in Who they want and not be afraid of what someones going to think about it.

Why do so many people get offended when you mention Jesus, but yet no one gets offended or says anything when Islam, Jews, or anyone else says anything. Wasn't America, founded because people were fleeing religious persecution. Come on America,Christians can say things too.
I pray in Jesus name that all of you have a blessed Christmas and may God Bless Mike Huckabee because he believes in JESUS CHRIST.
get over it liberals, just get over it.

Who ever decided to make a story out of this, has too much time on their hands. This is not news.

There are no coinciences in politics. And its this same type of shameless religious exploitation that not only alienates people from the churches, but also reminds us just how arrogant some Chrisitians are in essentially forcing their views on the general public.Huckabee as president equals religious extremism in every aspect of our federal government. The Chrisitan version of Iran.

Just goes to show you, they are all base politicians. Remove the masks, the slogans, the polished spin and they crave power. "Compassionate conservatism", "benign neglect" just words to lull into thinking these men and women lust for power. And all will tell you whatever it is you want to hear just give them the power. They will find the justification. Ron Paul, Romney, McCain and Obama are just politicians.
This controversy over an real or imagined cross is giving Huckabee free time and time to make further in-roads to the conservative christian right, the same people who brought you 8 years of George W. Bush. ugh!

I am starting to like this guy more and more…how genius… is Karl Rove behind this? Mitt Romney has been checkmated.

It is good to be noticed, what a difference a few polls make? They once ignored him, then they laughed at him, now they are fighting him. When this guy (i.e. Huckabee)was at the battom of the pack anybody hardly paid attention to anything he said. Now everything–literaly everything–he said or does is being scrutinized to minuscule delails. Romney and company have to relax! Stop this useless political insurgency against your fellow candidate and engage in a more conventional political fight–that is, if you got teeth!

MERRY CHRISTMAS! This is OUR country, get used to it.

The Reason for the Season ISN'T Jesus.

Sorry This season was already taken, enjoy it if you wish – but remember your place.
Posted By Dave, Kansas KS : December 18, 2007 6:41 pm

DAVE,

I say this in humility and with no intention to spite you. . . . .Jesus loves you. I hope that this season he will somehow show you this fact. Again, i say this in full humility and with respect of your beliefs. I hold no corner in the 'morality market' I am as crusty and nasty as could be but he continues to save me anyway. God pursues us. . . even when I/you have nothing to pursue. . . .

well,cnn, here ya go. . . .i dare you to post it.

Yeah, And I suppose Huckabees' red sweater means he's really the Anti-Christ in disguise… gimme and the rest of America a break!!

You have to be kidding me. This is what CNN wastes time "reporting?" Give me a break

This is typically how these politicians work – subliminally and through control and fear. There is only one politician that has the integrity not to stoop to these dirty tricks. . .

Ron Paul is hands-down the most intelligent, honest man to ever run for president in modern history. He has a comprehensive and extensive understanding of history, finance, foreign policy, and the constitution. Americans should be proud to have him as president. What a difference from your current president (who is ALREADY being remembered as an embarrassment and the dumbest U.S. president ever).

I'm definitely not voting for him, but i'll defend him on this one. Why would he need a SUBLIMINAL Christian message when he is broadcasting a CHRISTMAS themed commercial?

Thank you CNN for inserting the Governor's comments without proper context. There are several people who have written comments complaining that he said "last time I checked that is what we celebrate." Unfortunately, those people have failed to watch the video otherwise they'd realize that those comments were in response to a reporter's follow-up question in which she said "I think the problem they have is that you talked about the birth of Christ" (as opposed to Christmas). Huckabee was making the simple fact that Christmas is the birth of Christ. His statement did not mean that the whole country celebrates it. Readers should watch the video or CNN should be responsible enough to post the full context. Be responsible people. Oh, and Merry Christmas.

Sinderbrand and Brusk assert that "critics" "said" the "bookshelf" was a "subliminal message".
"[C]ritics"? Who are these "critics"? The same kook fringe freaks who said that the George Bush ran an ad with a "subminal message" when the screen cut off the word "Democrat" and revealed only the letters "C", "R", "A" and "T", and said kooks "thought" that was a "subliminal message" involving a different word, to wit: the word "RATS"? God, please help us if those fools actually vote in elections and cancel the votes of the normal human being community.

Geez, people give the guy a break. I'm a screaming liberal and I'm not put off by it. Last time I checked, there were really big problems going on in the world these days that merit our attention, not this non-issue.

I think Huckabee is glad that people are so focused on his religion and not focusing on his horrible history as a politician.

I would think that the shape that our country is in, these people could find something more important to talk about than whether or not the bookshelf looks like a cross. It is a bookshelf!!! Also, I am proud to know that there is a man of Huckabee's quality willing to take on the challenge of the mess he will inherit if he becomes President. Whoever wins the election will need our prayers for guidance for him to get us straightened out. As for the "cross", it is a big part of Christmas. If it were not for Christmas there wouldn't have been a need for the cross. They kind of go hand in hand. One is the celebration of Christ's life and the other is a symbol of his death. Get real people and find something good to say instead of looking for something negative. There is not one of us that is perfect and Huckabee comes closer than any of the other candidates. If he gets elected there won't be any Presidential scandal for at least 4 yrs. unless you dream up another stupid scheme to discredit the person.

Conservatives love to say that the Constitution is not there to protect the government from religion, but to protect religion from the government.

The only problem is that if one religion becomes the dominant ideology in the government, the policy will eventually reflect only that view and it will be easier to persecute other religions in the name of whatever faith currently controls the government.

"Plausible deniability" is exactly what it is.

Whether purposeful or not, the bookcase is neatly centered in the video, framed on the left by a Christmas tree and framed on the right by Huck-a-been's head.

The bandwagon effect, also known as social proof and closely related to opportunism, is the observation that people often do (or believe) things because many other people do (or believe) the same. The effect is often pejoratively referred to as herding instinct, particularly as applied to adolescents. Without examining the merits of the particular thing, people tend to “follow the crowd”. The bandwagon effect is the reason for the bandwagon fallacy’s success. Huckabee being the savy politician he is has no delusions as to who his demographic is in Iowa. He will say anything short of, ” the only person that can help a hick in Iowa is a hick his self”. And if he thought thought the evangelical center of the Iowa republicans would buy it, he would say it. Suffice to his saying that he is the “Christian candidate” and that he is choice of the disenfranchised underdogs of the country, this Elmer Gantryish candidate will do only one thing for Iowans, insure that their third choice in the republican nomintion gets nominated. Namely,Rudy Giuliani,because once he runs out of evangelicals he is toast. Or maybe Rudy Giuliani’s running mate. Oh well, same difference.On that note by all means forget about politics and have very merry Christmas,and a happy New Huckabee,"erm" New Year, sorry for the freudian slip

To all people who said they are not part of the "we" when Huck said "this is what we celebrate." You are right. He was not referring to you. He was only referring to him and me. Yeah, just the two of us ol' buddies. What made you think he was talking about you???

I didn't even read anything in this article except the headline and the picture caption. All I have to say is that anyone who even cares about this is completely ridiculous.

Hey people! Be nice to Huck. Or God will punish you.

CNN, if you do not publish this, God will punish you too.

Merry Christmas to all…I mean to all Christians only!

He looks like Gomer Pyle.I trusted Gomer.So I will vote for him.

The latest Iowa poll has Huckabee sliding a bit, and now back in a toss-up with Mitt Romney. This is proving an explosive month indeed. Link.

The words Christ-Mass are Catholic. It's the feast of celebration for Christ's birth day. Hence the word Christmas. Another Catholic example is Michaelmas, Sep 29, the feast day for Archangel Michael. Christmas is the main feast day of ther year, but it's the secular people who have turned it into this overblown, crassly commercial day of excess and gluttony. Now the same secular people are complaining when people brought up in the Catholic tradition wish each other a joyous Christmas !

I just thought I would get a message out to Mr Huckabee, from the solution provider for the divine Mother Meera:

MADONNA!!!!!!!!!! Butcher Tammuz Lesbos? Not again?!?

Love, HoneyBunny

Posted by NEWSSTAND GUY | December 18, 2007 8:59 PM

Comment (25) http://ellen.warnerbros.com/2007/12/breaking_news_well_its_not_act.php

I'm not saying I'm against the guy, but he's got some major sucking up to do.

the antiChrists on the left are so blind ignorant to the fact that their emotional immaturity gives the Republicans all they need to win again.

Ian in Eastham:

The Beatles' Abbey Road, when played backwards on a turntable, supposedly came out "Paul is dead". That was an "urban legend" and also started up a rumour that Paul McCartney had indeed died.

He couldn't win in this situation. He would have been branded a hypocrite if he had said "Happy Holidays" instead of "Merry Christmas."

Originally I didn't think he was an electable candidate but I may need to rethink that.

AGREED…….this is 'CNN Trivia Pursuit'…CNN needs to concentrate on the REAL story, like: Huckabee is going to drop like a rock…and soon! His comments have made him less and less attractive as a candidate. He's cocky and full of 'cheap shots'…not smart.

As someone who doesn't celebrate Christmas, I feel it would have been nicer if he wished everyone "happy holidays" so that certain groups of people wouldn't feel left out.

I'm not offended, though, because I wouldn't expect someone from Arkansas to know much about other religions as not many other religions exist in that area.

-Sorry for centuries it's been the begining of the Winter Solstace that we celebrate. Romans celebrated the God Saturn on this day. There's very little truly Christian about your so-called "Christ-mass" The tree is Pagan, as well as the yule log. The exchanging of presents was from the Roman Saturadia. Celebrating Winter Solstace goes back to the Egyptians, long before your Jesus was thought of. And for almost two centuries after the so called life of Jesus, No christians celebrated X-mas.

It's only been in the last 100 yrs that Christmas has been celebrated by Christians. Remember that on "The Day of Saturn",while you sit next to the Pagan Tree, under your Druid Misiltoe.

The Reason for the Season ISN'T Jesus.

Sorry This season was already taken, enjoy it if you wish – but remember your place.
Posted By Dave, Kansas KS : December 18, 2007 6:41 pm

IT'S INTERESTING THAT I'VE HAD TO POST THIS TWICE NOW BECAUSE IT WAS FLUSHED THE FIRST TIME! SO HERE IT IS AGAIN!

Thank you SO much Dave in Kansas for spelling out the truth about Yule! It is so refreshing to see more and more posts on the political ticker from real, open-minded, educated spiritual folk. I was raised Southern Pentecostal and am now Pagan. What a breath of fresh air!

May your Yule be filled with blessings & love!

I am so tired of everyone sayiny that we can't say Merry Christmas, when it is ok to say happy Hannukah, happy Quanza etc. If they dont want to say Merry Chrismas, then let's all stop saying Happy Hannukah and Happy Quanza and the like. So, I guess it's Ok to be Jewish or African American, but not to be a Christian…well, Merry Chritmas to each and every one of them!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Who cares about the supposed "subliminal message" with the cross? What's more important is that conservatives such as Huckabee think that, regardless of the fact that separation of Church and state is clearly discussed in the constitution, voters should still make decisions based on religion. In the ad Huckabee flat out states that the important thing right now is celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior, not political ads. He didn't need the subliminal message to be offensive, and for anyone interested in actual politics and the future of this country, the ad is clearly irrelevant.

Wow! I don't understand the mainstream media today….Lets talk about a "subliminal message" (window frame), instead of giving any kind of attention to Ron Paul.

RON PAUL 08!

what and idiot…

Come on people, Christmas is what "we" celebrate. Dec 25th is a recognized National Holiday. It is Merry Christmas not Happy Holiday.

Christmas is not originally about Christ at all, so no need for him to defend it. Anyone who has done any mild research knows that Christmas was long a pagan holiday until Christianity rose and wanted to convert the pagans. And what better way than to tell them to keep doing what they do already, just rename everything? I bet there was quite a fuss the first time someone said "merry Christmas" instead of the traditional festival greeting.

If this ad offends you to bad. This is a wake up call to all Christians. I for one am not ashamed of the gospel and am tired of the secular society telling us God has no place in public life or politics. This nation was founded on Godly principles and it drives liberals insane. If this ad offends you-you are missing something in your life that will never be filled by anything else. Jesus is the reason for the season!

> I'm guessing that you are either in your 20s or 30s

Guilty, I'm 31. A little before my time and I never got into or liked the Beatles…I know, I know…I'm sorry. Just not my thing.

IF IT WAS A BOOKSHELF, WHY DIDN'T IT HAVE BOOKS ON IT? C'MON HUCK. GIVE ME BREAK. YOU'VE LOST LOTS OF VOTES ON THIS ONE.

Last time we at Perkins School of Theology checked Christmas was just that – Christmas. "Inclusive" sounds like another PC word for give me the time off (and maybe some gifts – and by the way how about an "inclusive" bonus. If Christmas is now what you celebrate then go to work that day.

The real issue is that a Post By Ian, Eastham MA : December 18, 2007 4:37 pm
doesn´t get the Beatles Reference.
NO sick sense of humor just a reference to a late 60´s pop culture urban legendof Paul Mc Cartney and he being dead and replace by Billy Shears.

I think you if you look real close you may see a cross on on the side of the burning car as it goes off a cliff on the Sgt pepper album cover.
AS for the cross is it subliminal?
one must understand the meaning of subliminal.
as per Merriam-Webster
Pronounciation
\(ˌ)sə-ˈbli-mə-nəl\
Function: adjective
Etymology: sub- + Latin limin-, limen threshold
Date: 1886
1 : inadequate to produce a sensation or a perception
2 : existing or functioning below the threshold of consciousness <subliminal advertising

1)Since all this commentary exists I would say quite the conrtary, the cross members of the presumed book case ( opps did I say cross) were indeed adequate to provide a senstation and or preception.
2)I Don´t belive that the white cross members just offset from the focal point of Mr Huckabee functioned below ones level of conciousness, if it did then go buy a sgt peppers album.
OK There is a major cross behind Huckabee but what´s the concern about a vertical upright with a transverse beam at the mid point. If the point of intersection of the up right and transverse beam were at a 2/3rds point above mid center then I think I´d say we got a cross or crucifix instead of a plan ol in your face plus sign.
peace out last of the baby boomers 63
get real people.

Remember Mike, Axial Tilt is the Reason for the Season.

Whatever religious values these candidates with to espouse are fine with me– but I will not vote for anyone that would even consider using the term "we" aligned with "Christian" when referring to Americans in general. Read the Constitution Mike! If your religion is so weak that it requires the force of government to prop it up you have a much bigger problem than a few people who are tired of hearing "Merry Christmas" from politicians who claim to represent all Americans.

Mr. Huckabee presents us with what the current campaign has hungered for; a pointed insight for every posture. He is a candidate capable of skewering intellectual nabobs of negativism (where have I heard that before?)while maintaining the dignity and humorous thoughtfulness that lends perspective to all issues, great and small. I think I am going to follow him closely.

The tyranny of the minority, oh how I love thee.

It really is amazing that saying "Merry Christmas" is such a horrible and vile thing to some people. It's also vile that at Christmas-time people give to charity, provide meals to the homeless, etc.

Let's just get rid of Christmas so all of these evil people will stop wishing for goodwill among men and peace on earth.

Then we can all be happy that the homeless starve, children don't get the joy of opening a present on Christmas morning, and people go without proper clothes in the dead of winter.

Christmas, such an evil holiday.

I was the recording engineer on hundreds of sessions for political ads. Every single detail was always strategic and even the "ad lib" ads analyzed from every angle. I am disappointed that Huckabee seems to believe am a FOOL or just plan ignorant!

You've got to be kidding me! To say that the 'symbolic' cross was unintentional is laughable. No matter how you feel on the issue, one thing is for certain… this is a political ad. These ads are scrutinized up and down, back and forth before they are ever released. Don't be fooled or naive!

We Christians know 12/25/2007 is not the "birthday" of Christ Jesus. However at this time of the year we remember his birth, and celebrate God's Gift to us all. Feliz Navidad!

Omg……I think I saw the Anti-Christ in his left cheek! Not..I guess the liberals, Atheist's and lunatic separation of Church and state fiends are out on the prowl tonight. This is such a non story. OMG…….is that shelf white? He must be a white supremacist……..OMG…….there are no Gay, Lesbian, Jews, Christians, Hispanics, Asians, African American,s Armenians, Russians, Czecks, Germans and others behind him. What will we do?

How come the book shelf has no books?

To Mr. Huckabee: FELIZ NAVIDAD!

The shelving in the background only vaguely resembles a cross-like structure. The 'T's in Political Ticker are more cross-like than that.

Even so, wishing someone a Merry Christmas should not get hackles up any more than wishing someone a Merry Kwanzaa or a Happy Yule would. It is more a testament to the fractured nature of our society that everyone feels offended and left out if the holiday mentioned doesn't belong to their particular group, as if all other holidays are null and void but their own. To me, all holidays are just as valid as long as someone feels joy in celebrating them. If someone wishes a person happiness during (insert holiday here), that is an invitation not an exclusion.

So, 80 years ago…if this joker ran an ad that said there's a rason for women and black folk not being able to vote, it would be acceptable too.

Is this a Presidential race, or a church rally? Mr. Huckabee, go take care of your dog killing son…and take a few science courses.

I really don't care whether the "cross" thing was deliberate or not. I do care about the "we" thing, since 17% of us are not Christian. If Mike Huckabee gets the Republican nomination–and God, I hope he does–he might take Mississippi and Alabama. Maybe South Carolina. Beyond that, the Democrats wipe him out. Despite the fact that 83% of this country is Christian, a majority of them do not someone to be our president who does not believe in evolution, who thinks women must seek only to serve the interests of their husbands, that the earth is 7000 years old and men and dinosaurs played togehter, that carbon dating is an atheist conspiracy, that all abortions should be outlawed and on and on and on. The vast majority of Americans disagree with Mr. Huckabee on every single one of these issues. The Democrats could run Daffy Duck and Huckabee would still lose. Despite what the evangelicals like Huckabee say, this is not a Christian country and the framers of the Constition certainly never intended it to be. If they had, there would be no Establishment Clause in the First Amendment. It is intersting to me that the people who belive the Second Amendment gives individuals the right to have guns, also believe that the country should be ruled by Christian values and that somehow this is not an affront to the First Amendment. I agree with the Second Amendment argument and I own guns. However, you cannot read one amendment literally and then add crap to another because it suits your religious beliefs. The fact that Jefferson, Washington, Adams, Hamilton and Hancock were Christian and believed in God means absolutely nothing. After all, if it hadn't been for Haym Salomon–a Jew–there would probably be no United States because he almost single-handedly financed our revolution by getting money from France and Holland at the request of George Washington. Washington's diary testifies to this-"that when money was needed for the Revolutionary War, you went to Haym Salomon." My guess is that Washington and the rest of our founders are rolling over in their graves.

Of course its a cross.

I'm sick of this guy. First, by branding himself the Christian Candidate, he is using his religion as a qualification or a "test" for office. This is wrong. Second, his denial of this incident is appalling. That is absolutely NOT a normal bookshelf behind him. His act is getting old. He does controversial things, and then he laughs them off, saying they weren't intended. C'mon Huck, don't insult our intelligence. You could never beat the Democrats anyway. I'm voting for Romney.

You gotta be kidding me, right? Subliminal cross? Only liberal medias like CNN would be paranoid about stuff like that. (Why don't they send that footage to one of those paranormal reality series and people will really be spooked.) Wake up liberals, stop acting like idiots!
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL AND HAPPY HANNUKAH! (Oooh, you must be horribly offended by that, you must be writhing all over the floor!)

Alright already! Christmas is Christmas. Just like Hanukah is Hanukah, etc., etc. Waiting to see the day when 4th of July will no longer be an American holiday since we will need to be careful not to offend (liberals are such wusses!!!!)people in this country who don't have their own holiday to celebrate THEIR country's freedom from Spain, France,Germany, etc., etc.

I doubt Mr. Huckabee attempted to use the bookshelf as a cross. But calling him kind in his ads is a mistake. His news interview just today responding to Romney's ad was the worst type of attack ad I have ever heard. The beginning of this ad made me shiver, he is a slick communications major – even if he quit his master's degree program! It says a lot about a man who can't finish something he starts. Simile Huckabee is not for me.

Disguisting. Just because it is a federal holiday does not mean that everyone celebrates it. And just because someone celebrates it does not mean they celebrate it for the same reason as others. If this man can't recognize that there are other people in this country besides Christians, and that not all Christians are even the same, then he has no business being president. This is not "PC" as so many of you are fond of calling it, it's simple respect and helps avoid things like Holy Wars. It's bad enough Bush said that God wanted us to invade Iraq. Now I suspect that this man probably won't be any different.

I completely agree with Jon, New Haven CT. It is concerning that politicians insist on mixing government and religion. People need to realize that America is changing and its people are changing as well. The U.S. is one of the most, if not the most, diverse country in the world. People need to respect other people's religions, whatever they may be. He has the right to wish people Merry "Christ Mass". On the other hand, to say "that is what we celebrate" is ridiculous and ignorant. Who is the "we" he is talking about anyways? Not only is it ignorant, but it is a stupid political move because he is seperating those who are not christians by saying those ridiculous comments.

I saw the ad and did not think for a minute that it was a bookshelf. I saw only the cross…not very subliminal, somewhat like Mike. Besides, Mike, just like Jarred is a bit more than zealous in their product hawking.

This is the lowest form of news. Cnn you should be ashamed of yourselves for sinking so low that this is news. I have watched the tape and as a non Christian it did not offend me. Let's also use terms such as subliminal correctly. Subliminal is defined as existing or operating below the threshold of consciousness; being or employing stimuli insufficiently intense to produce a discrete sensation but often being or designed to be intense enough to influence the mental processes or the behavior of the individual: After watching the commerical did anyone run out convert to Christianity and get Baptised. If you did well I am sure the US military has a front line position for you Iraq as well. Spend time covering real issues and try not to sensationalize. Thank you for your time.

Some one should remind Huckabee that Christmas was orginally a pegan holiday hijacked by the Christians…

I wonder if Jesus is rolling over in his grave about now. All this miserable B.S. and in his name!

Huckabee will probably take a tour of the Holy Land and call that his Middle East policy.

Well put. I agree one hundred percent. The whole point of the holiday season was and still is to celebrate Christmas. Call it what you want but it's still Christmas. Subliminal message? It's a bookshelf. Nothing more, nothing less. People are really reaching for straws and getting worked up over nothing. Don't we have more to be concerned with like our troops overseas, starving children here in our own country, falling economy, etc. etc.?

I hope it IS a cross! Why does that scare a small percentage of people? Christ died for your sins also. Merry Christmas!

Oh wait! The 3 balls on the bookshelf are the "Holy Trinity."

Christmas is the name adopted by the US as a Federal Holiday so for all those who post "that is what you celebrate", it is also what YOU celebrate unless you discount the day entirely which if you have children I imagine most of you don't. It is not solely a religious holiday.

Would somebody be so kind as to show me where exactly in the Bible is says that Christmas occurs on December the 25th?!

Anyone … anyone?

*crickets*

Christians set the holiday arbitrarily against the established Pagan tradition … and then this country commercialized it – end of story, folks!

I applaud Mr. Huckabee for taking his stand. It's time to take a stand in this country. Jesus is THE reason for the season. Thank you for not giving in to political correctness that has the nation in a mess!

"Last time I checked [Christmas] is what we celebrate"

What a ridiculous thing to say. I'm proud to live in a country where "we" means more than just "Christians who celebrate Christmas." I'm proud to live in a country where, if a candidate says something this idiotic, people will speak up.

So now Governor Huckabee wants to put aside politics for a moment and focus on more important things like the true meaning of Christmas. Of course he's only interested in wishing a Merry Christmas to people in Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina. Nothing political about that, for sure! What a phoney. Using Jesus to try and scrape up a few votes – coming from someone who recently said he hoped no one would vote for him just because he is a Baptist minister – is the ultimate hypocrisy.

Are you guys serious? You're mad because he had a bookshelf that vaguely resembles a cross in his commercial?

What about windows in houses? They usually have 2 pieces of wood (or whatever) CROSSing in the middle. And how did you get through first grade math class? Those pesky plus signs are obviously a product of the religious nut jobs who pull the strings of the Republican (Christian) party…

With all of this Political Corectness weighing heavy on ym mind I say MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!!!!

Excepting that he looks like he has a glass right eye, the bookshelf reflects the studio light, as does his collar.

But what are those huge Christmas balls on the shelf that are dwarfing the tree?

It's depressing to read all the vitriolic diatribes from people posting here. Yikes, people. Christmas is about the birth of Jesus Christ; deal with it. You may not believe that he is the Savior of the world–I do–but his birth is an historical fact (see Josephus).

Good ad, Mike! You just secured my vote. If people don't like the fact that you have beliefs, they can emigrate back to wherever and not be missed. This IS a Christian country founded on Christian ideals.

Great. Now we can't even have bookshelves on display anymore?

If there's a candleabra in the shot, then maybe peole will think it's a menorah.

No, wait, let's have a star in there so people will think it's a pentogram.

Grow up people.

You can tell by the posts who got screwed by Santa cause they didn't get squat under the tree at some point in their young life. You guys sleigh me…no pun. It's Christmas…if you don't want to participate nobody cares.

I have just digested comment on the christians, atheist, jewish, beatles and i guess i missed any reference to darwin in here. The comments on the bookshelf/cross/plus (my personal favorite) represent the varied perceptions.

Find what makes you think, what motivates you as a person, become passionate and dedicated, the very life that stirs inside of you.

The people that are driven to try to accept the responsibility to oversee "the country that was established for all to come that will" have found a passion. Something motivates them.

As people we strive for reasons to celebrate, reflect, rejuvinate, believe in and look foward to.

I enjoy learning about my Jewish co-worker who is so passionate about her faith. Though I am not Jewish, I believe we are motivated by similiar passions.

My atheist friend and I are going to a basketball game on Saturday. I think I want to ask him why he put up a christmas tree? Do you think its because retailers depend on the fourth quarter revenues for profit?

I heard men of faith state that in thier studies, Christmas is celebrated in the wrong season. hmm?

I can take a simple statement and change a letter to my own interpetation….
Christmas Love…Christ Was Love.
I guess in someones' book I am a non-atheist…

I want the men and women that are in charge of the use of my husbands talents and skills in the Air Force to make the best decisions on how to use them.

Instinct,Good from bad, morales to not having any, right from wrong, choices and not, love and hate…

We each are given the opportunity to look at, hear, read and reason somewhere between our heads and our emotions and make a decision….

To each comment posted…bravo..as for Mike Huckabee and every other canidate seeking office, focus on your passions so we can exercise our FREEDOM to choose leadership by a majority.

I will hammer this guy FOREVER on his policies but not on this non-story.

"We as a nation", meaning the HUGE majority (about 85-90 percent) do indeed celebrate Christmas and that includes many of our non-Christian friends.

If you don't want to celebrate, work that day, don't give out presents and CELEBRATE whatever you want.

I encourage it, do what makes you happy and share it with others.

If you want to be a miserable, whiny insignificant piece of crap who believes in nothing, crack a cold one and celebrate that.

Beware when you open your Christmas present this year. An Evangelical Christan fanatic may be secretly watching your fingers to ensure you unwrap non-secularly.

Dave in Kansas: You serve no one by posting your mistaken opinion of the facts.

In 350 AD the Bishop of Rome, Julius I, chose December 25th as the day to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Look it up.

And New Years comes from New – Year. Why, that's a holiday! That makes 2 in one weeks time?!?! That makes it "Holidays" and I want yours to be happy. The contraction is now "Happy Holidays" instead of Happy New Year, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Merry Kwanzaa, Happy Thanksgiving, etc.

I'll just say "Happy Holidays" instead. If I'm in Church, I feel comfortable enough to say Merry Christmas and leave it at that, but usually only during Christmas Mass. Imagine that.

Huckabee will never be president, so don't get your feathers ruffled. From a purely political standpoint, the advertisement is brilliant. He couldn't buy better advertising for the meat and potatoes conservatives who will eat this up.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!! Enough said.

Whoa. Someone said a theology degree is not "real"? If you were working for one, especially a university based one like I do (Vanderbilt) you would beg to differ. They do not come easy. Please stop the degrading blanket comments.

As for the cross in the background, I've got to admit I did not notice it from the picture.

I guess I should mention for "validation's" sake that I have never and will never vote Republican — not as long as they stand for a foreign policy of dominance and coercion, fail to provide adequate healthcare, education, and other social services for its citizens, and is willing to form a transparent government… everything Democrats are saying they are working for. My prayer to God is that they are telling the truth.

Thank you SO much Dave in Kansas for spelling out the truth about Yule! It is so refreshing to see more and more posts on the political ticker from real, open-minded, educated spiritual folk. I was raised Southern Pentecostal and am now Pagan. What a breath of fresh air!

May your Yule be filled with blessings & love!

Huckabee neglects to mention how at this time of year, some Americans celebrate Christmas, others Hanukkah, others Kwanzaa, others Eid al-Adha, others Winter Solstice, others New Year's Day, others nothing at all. In mentioning "Christmas" is a contraction of "Christ's Mass," he neglects to mention this is a Roman Catholic thing, for which reason his Protestant forebears OUTLAWED Christmas in the United States well into the 19th century, making it an ordinary day of work, business and government during which churches were closed under penalty of fine or jail time.

Tax hike Mike trying to steal the Christian Evangelists, eh.

Wack job religious zealot / Bush 2.0

Ridiculous denial by Huckabee.
Of course the high contrast lighting on the book shelf was intentional. The cross is framed perfectly and more well lit than Mike himself. But at the same time, so what? He is a Christian Republican candidate, why wouldn't he want to emphasize that? Why is it wrong to display the cross?

Go to thelivingroomcandidate website if you don't think that every last frame of a campaign ad isn't managed.

What makes it even more convincing is Huckabee's lame denial. Last minute? Christmas is the same time every year Mike. And you've been campaigning in those states for months now.

And his claim that it is an ad just so Mike could tell people "Merry Christmas" in Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina. No nothing more than a highly expensive Christmas card sent to people you don't know.

Huckabee played this perfectly –stir up the resentment over a clear display of his "so-called" Christian beliefs–And in so doing so stir up the Religious Christian voters–Brilliant Mr. Huckabee—

I just want all you religion bashers to know that I (along with many others) pray for your salvation and wish you had the peace that comes from faith, hope, grace and love.

As one of the 83% of Americans who is Christian, I'd like to say that quite frankly, you don't know what you're missing.

let's ask what kind of person would abuse his powers to prevent rightful investigation into his son's act of hanging, torturing and killing (slitting it's throat) a stray dog? i'm a christian, but this in no way means i would ever support a candidate like that. some may say "it's only a dog." but we can easily say that about everything else.

It's interesting that CNN took the liberty to subdue to lighting on the "bookshelf" to make it just look…umm… normal.

In the ACTUAL ad, the lights are set up to purposefully bring out a "cross" from it and move the camera angle and "depth of field" to make the cross appear to "float."

Yes. It was extremely diliberate just as diliberate as the "halos" seen around Bush's head in thousands and thousands of photos in the media (or the Romney "speech" at an official "seal of the U.S. President" podium.)

I actually don't have a huge problem with what Huckabee did, but then lying about it, I do. He would have been better off just calling it "marketing genius" and shrugging at the critics. Lying about it like it wasn't intentional sets off alarm bells for me. What kind of President will he be if he will lie about something so little?

Wow. It's a bookshelf… with ornaments on it. Everyone start freaking out, now.

While I cannot believe how many of you missed the holy "trinity" on the shelf, I was really less concerned with the cross, the trinity, the message or the song than I was with that poor excuse of a sweater the guy was wearing.

I didn't even notice the cross until everyone started sounding off. I was listening to his message. Had to go back and see it again to see the cross and I'm a Christian. Focus on the person and what is being spoken and stop contriving every gnats knuckle to some "Oh, I'm SO offended" routine. Real tired of it.

To everyone who said that "we" don't all celebrate Christmas … I thought that by "we" he meant we, as a country. And that's accurate. Christmas is a national holiday. Government and corporate offices are closed. We take off work and spend time with friends. On the calendar of federal holidays, it's called "Christmas." Too bad the very word is offensive. You may not celebrate this holiday, but the vast majority of us do. We're not forcing our religion on you by wishing you a merry Christmas. The next thing you know, it's going to be wrong to say "God bless you." "Well, what do you mean by God? What if I don't believe in God? I don't want to be blessed by him…" Give me a break!

Christmas is what WE celebrate. If you believe in Christ, celebrate Christmas. No one said you have to put up a tree, no one invited you over to open presents, NO ONE FORCES YOU TO GO TO CHURCH. Seperation from church and state does not give you freedom from religion, it gives you the freedom to shout from the highest rooftops who you believe in. You can not say a president cannot tell the world they believe in Jesus. I want every President to say this out loud with joy. Jesus is a saviour and a great teacher with the first peaceful message on this planet that has lasted for 2000 years. Love your neighbor as you love yourself.
I don't care if you don't believe in Jesus.
Why do you care that others do?
WE will all be having a MERRY CHRISTMAS, you univite yourself if you hate the message and the messenger.

I don't like Huckabee, and I don't like his religion but seriously – that's totally not a cross and he can say Merry F-ing Christmas all he wants. The PC crowd need to shut-up.

He obviously dodged the question. He does not say yes or no. At worst, his response to this criticism is deceptive, at best, it is spin. How about a politician who simply tells the truth without any spin, or have we given up on that?

"And, to those who say religion can not effect a choice for President I say what a load of leftist secular humanist garbage. A candidates religious views effect his world views which effect his political decisions. For a quick example. A fundamentalist Muslim believes Isreal should be thrown into the sea where as a Christian believes Isreal has a GOD given right to a home land. This is just ine of many examples where your religion will shape your politics.
Posted By Michael Allen Palm Beach Fl : December 18, 2007 6:54 pm"

What effect do you think it has when we elect those that pander to the "fundamentalist" Christians here in the USA? Look at Bush, he has said before that he has things on good accord from the Holy Ghost and where exactly has that gotten us? Now our country is basically at war with another religion, "islamic extremism". Why do so many people in this country think that it is important to vote in someone who will direct this country with a faith-based radar? Don't you understand that by pushing your views on others in trying to "spread your goodness" you are in effect, creating hatred and resentment against you? Don't you realize that you are really selling yourself out, that they are using your religion (which nobody here in America has a problem with, in and of itself) to pander to globalist movements to defeat us all? United we stand, divided we fall. The NeoCon agenda is for religion to take over the Republican party and use your religion as a ploy to get you to vote for funding this world empire.

That's exactly what we have, an Empire, and a unjust one in many cases such as with our unyielding support for Israel over the Arabs. The sad thing is that you seriously still wonder why those horrible "terrorists" attacked us. Wake up! Most of the problems in this world are due to occupation, greed and fights between religious factions. It's always been that way!

Ironically, by voting for those who can't keep their religion to themselves, you are pushing us closer to a situation like your "mark of the beast" in doing so. One has to wonder if the "Christian extremists" and/or NeoCons are doing this on purpose, in effect, trying to make the prophecies in your religion come true.

Now don't get me wrong and think that I am anti-American or hostile towards you in any way. I am a real Patriot brother of yours and I would die for your right to practice that religion of yours. I am sorry if I come across as harsh, but people need to stop and think about the bigger picture in this world.

You need to step outside your own ego and the corporate owned TV brainwashed mentality long enough to think for yourself.

Yeah, Mike, and since Christmas is the only holiday celebrated by the diverse population of our country right now, your argument works just great. Then again, keep it up. If all you get is the religious right vote, that'll be just fine with me! Meanwhile, someone who respects and appreciates all groups in our country can win the election.

Actually the point Huckabee was trying to make with what people thought was a cross was this, The cross represenst our current economy and its trade prctices. The three christmas ornaments in the upper left and none in any other sections of the cross represent that only 25% of Americans are prospering in our global style. economy.

Why does God offend so many people? It offends them because they know they are not living a life that is pleasing and acceptable to Him. So many people are going to be saddened when the Lord Christ Jesus returns in the Rapture for His people.

Looks like a bookshelf to me!! Wow!! Can you find some real news?

Now debating that Christmas is Christ Mass steps over the bounds for Huckabee. He wants to be given the benefit of the doubt when it comes to the supposed "subliminal cross" in his ad, but then goes and rants about Merry Christmas like the rest of the holidays that include the Jewish Holiday of Hanukkah and the African American Holiday of Kwanzaa are nothing to celebrate?

I would be the first to claim Merry Christmas to another in honest good cheer. But to state his annoyance at saying Happy Holidays in this way to the whole of society is to isolate himself within the confines of the Christian Coalition. This is not what I would want to see in a candidate that is going to bring all sides together in today's divisive society. His Baptist upbringing is showing in his response. Do we need another zealot in office? No.

Telling it like I see it,
Wynter

Mike Huckabee, or anyone else running for office, has every right to talk about their faith. Period. The religious freedom and tolerance that we enjoy in America is part of what makes this country great.

You can't make law or public policy based on religion. But you can certainly be a politician and be religious. That is a right that is guaranteed.

And for those who relentlessly demean people of faith, please, as you ask others to do, just keep your opinion to yourself. Your unkindness demonstrates a need to believe in something, if only good manners.

What is the subliminal meaning by this stories author? The name Rebecca means Servant of God. How dare you CNN.

Some moron commented concerning Huckabee "the guy is presenting himself as a preacher that entered politics without taking off the collar," suggesting that should immediately disqualify him. Do your homework, people, some of the founders of this country and SIGNERS of the Declaration of Independence were men of ministry. People in this country truly do NOT know their history, and just how many lives/sacrifices paved the way for our freedoms…!

I agree with Huckabee. This is the Christmas season. Something that has been celebrated for years and years. Now we are having to cater to those who find it offensive. Maybe the majority are tired of the minority upsetting the apple cart. Wonder what I can do to change Groudhog Day?

I am not a Christian but I dont find anything wrong in Huckabee wishing me Merry Christmas!

If you truly believe in God, respect all religions!

"It's only been in the last 100 yrs that Christmas has been celebrated by Christians."

That's what Huckabee meant when he said, "that's what we celebrate" He wasn't talking about what was celebrated 101 years ago.

To JONAH regarding "he does not believe in scientific fact". When did the THEORY of evolution become FACT?
You need to get your FACTS right.

Let's just say the image of a cross was intentional in the ad. So what? If you don't like it, don't vote for him. He has the right to wish Merry Christmas to those who celebrate it. He has the right to have the image of a cross in his ad if he so chooses. What so many of you don't seem to understand is that the louder you complain, the more you are driving Christians who are sick of being attacked to him in droves.

Actually, "WE" do celebrate Christmas, to all of the naysayers above. Because Christmas is a national holiday in America.

I don't know about you but I don't get any mail on December 25th.

If he did this intentionally, it's absolutely brilliant.

I am in no way a supporter of Huckabee, but yes, Christmas Day is a federal holiday.

From the US Offic of Personnel Management website:

2007 Federal Holidays
Monday, January 1, New Year's Day
Monday, January 15, Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.
Monday, February 19*, Washington's Birthday
Monday, May 28, Memorial Day
Wednesday, July 4, Independence Day
Monday, September 3, Labor Day
Monday, October 8, Columbus Day
Monday, November 12**, Veterans Day,
Thursday, November 22, Thanksgiving Day
Tuesday, December 25, Christmas Day

Like he said, perhaps we should call it "Happy Three Days After the Winter Solstice." On second thought, that wouldn't fit very well into the meter of many songs…

What? Candor from a politician… What's the world coming to? Common sense and straight talk perhaps…Good for you Mr. Huckabee!

Why is he so opposed to wishing those who celebrate Kwanzaa, or Hanukkah, or New Years a happy holiday too? Last I checked, they were all holidays. This season is all about holidays. I hope everyone has a happy holiday season regardless of the particular holiday combo they acknowledge. I personally celebrate two of them.

And so, happy holidays to you all!

This was a non issue right up to the point that he denied that the cross symbol was not placed there on purpose. Of course it was purposely placed there along with every other detail of the photo. We already know his religious background and expect him to cater to his base. But denying this symbolism issues way past being dishonest.

Thanks Mike, and Merry Christmas to you too!! That's as simple as it gets…people can play all their word games..but it is Christmas we celebrate this time of the year..period. As to whether "we" includes ALL Americans ..think what you think..As it is the message is for people who celebrate Christmas..rest of u can go around saying Happy Holidays..if thats what makes u feel better (and included!!)…This is coming from someone who is not even American (neither republican) and has lived here just 6 years..Phew!!some people just need growing up…(they panic seeing a Christian wish another!!) No ones asking u to wish back, right?? Sooo stop whinnig..Go get on with ur "Christmas Specials" shopping..or is it Holiday Specials??

Good Job Mr. Huckabee! I applaud you!

if it was meant to be a cross, so what.

Who cares about the bookshelf… the problem is that Huck is another ignoramus who doesn't understand the separation of church and state. And, who isn't sick of the Hucks of the world trying to re-write history with all that "America was founded as a Christian nation" drivel. BTW, the Beatles reference was trite.

What is the big deal if it's a cross or not? The man said 'God Bless' so it's not as if he's hiding his faith. Once again, the 'stir' caused is in the minds of the media, stirring it up. Would the media be so quick to get on his case if a candidate had said 'Praise be Allah'?

This is a TOTAL subliminal gesture!

Can't you all see it? It's a plus sign and he's subtly saying that he's good at math and that the current administration is mathematically inept.

How dare you push your math skills on us Huckabee!!!

Just because the No Child Left Behind is a detriment to the educational system doesn't mean you have to push your math signs on us. That's it, I'm switching my vote to the Democratic side!

The United States Constitution does not say, "freedom FROM religion", but rather, Freedom OF religion. Those who must attempt to convert another do not know the story of Jesus and the rich young man.

Yet another non-story. Why CNN wishes to contribute to the current political climate of covering everything but candiadte positions on the issues is simply beyond me.

No way a minister becomes president. That would really suck. The last thing I want my president doing is making a decision because "God" told him to. Most clergymen are shady anyway (ie, Catholic Priests, Falwell (racist), Greedy sleazebag country ministers)

There's no such thing as a last minute ad libbed spot that looks that good. I'm sorry Huck, but those of us in advertising and production just aren't that dumb. Second of all, just look at the still frame… no lighting designer in his right mind would ever highlight an object in the background like that without it being intentional. Seriously, anyone who says it's a coincidence does not understand the amount of time, effort, and planning that goes into something like this.

No, it's not a subliminal message, it's a friggin shelf!!! It's so disgusting how there are "watch dog" groups out there waiting to pounce on anything they don't approve of. It's always the biggest hypocrites who cry the loudest. I'm a Democrat, but I see nothing wrong with Huckabee's photo. GET OVER IT PEOPLE!!!

Wow, so now we can’t even wish each other a Merry Christmas? Who cares if you’re a politician? Christmas is Christmas, regardless. Now you're just searching blindly for something to criticize him on. Watch Huckabee in interviews and read his Web site, rather than only listening to what his critics say. I saw him on Larry King Live, and I felt like he genuinely addressed all the questions. No playing dodgeball for him. What a breath of fresh air to find a candidate who actually answers the question that’s asked!

What a non-issue. The man was talking about Christmas. Who cares if there is an image of the cross in the back? It's appropriate for the topic. It's not like he was giving a policy speech on Comprehensive Immigration Reform with a cross in the back. Sheesh, get a life.

Please stop! I know America is better than this! Whether your choice is Paul, Huck, Clinton or whomever, your right to choose is the awesome part! How about this people; let's start blogging about the POSITIVE stuff and stop playing the childish game of he-said-she-said. 911 showed us we can work together. Let's not let those who have gone before us die in vain.

This is a joke, right? Isn't this the ad where Huck literally injected the name of Jesus Christ in the commercial? Why you guys would run this story is beyond me. How can anything be subliminal in an ad where Christ is overtly the theme? Just the thought of it seems stupid. Why would someone put the name of Jesus in an ad but put a subliminal cross in the background? This story just makes me want to vote for the Huckster even more. You people are crazy, or just desperate for a story!

Huckabee's comments are very selfish, narrow-minded and centric on his religion.
I'm Catholic and I celebrate Christmas, but I don't wish 'Merry Christmas' outside the house. I always say 'Happy Holidays' for fear that someone will feel left out, and the holidays are a time for everyone to feel good. Huckabee just comes across as saying "To hell with the rest of the holidays!," which is very un-accepting and closed-minded of his fellow man.

Happy Holidays everyone! Stay safe and enjoy family and friends:)

Doesn't look subliminal to me looks like it's pretty blatant and I'm sure it's comforting to the others that think the earth is six thousand years old. But, Mike does have that cross-marketing approach which can be reflected in his reponse, "Paul is dead" which along with his bass playing and frequent comments on music are targeted for the left and secular. I am an athiest, but I celebrate the winter or solstice by goodwill gestures and gift giving. I know others that celebrate hanukkah, Kwanza or Rammadan. Huckabee is a zealot, and I think Rudy and Ron Paul are a little closer to reality or rationalization. ~Peace to All~

Interesting article, another sad day for journalism.
I noticed not a single source was cited criticizing the ad, which is obviously intended to send a Christian message (he says "God Bless" for crying out loud). Who are these unnamed critics?
Then, if you go to his Web site, he touts the spot at "the ad everyone is talking about." Isn't this just a case of a political campaign creating a story through the media to create some much-needed hype?
Even worse, it apparently took two CNN writers (Rebecca Sinderbrand and Steve Brusk) to come up with this piece.

Did anyone notice the subliminal holiday tree behind him to the left?

Well, Mr. Huckabee, I won't burden you with a Pagan vote. Since I celebrate Yule at this time of year, and not Christ Mass.

It's the REASON for the season!!
MERRY CHRISTMAS to one and all! I'm very glad that Christians are finally speaking up. I am so sick and tired of always hearing about being "polically correct" all the time. I for one DON'T CARE about being that way, it's Christmas. And so what if there was a CROSS in the back ground, big deal….deal with it.

I am a Muslim American and I actually appreciated the warm wishes offered by Mike. He seems to be sincere in his message and it was a nice change to hear something positive than a mudsling comment aimed at an opponent.

Personally I would rather have some one in the presidential office that had respect for a God and is not extreme about their views. I think Mike has a good presence to bring Americans together. Whether he is sincere about his words is hard to say as he is a politician. But even so if his words and messages bring the country together then it a good for this beautiful country.

Stop knit picking at everything. We will never find anyone perfect that satisfies everyone's personal policy. It is time that we unite on the very big issues and save our country.

Once again, Gov. Huckabee panders to the religous right: he knows quite well that the word "Holiday" derives from "Holy Day", and as such is a pefectly innocent midwinter festival greeting. I bet he considers Christmas, (or Xmas, it's Chi-for-Christ Greek further contraction), a holy day, whether or not he takes a holiday that day. I'll further wager that he isn't going to attend Mass on Dec.25th! Now, somebody tell me just what the heck is IN Congressman Tancredo's "National Creed"…are we electing a President or a Lord Protector?

POWER TO RULE NATIONS COMES FROM ABOVE AND NOT FROM THE PEOPLE….THAT INCLUDES THE GOOD AND THE EVIL….THAT STATEMENT IS OVER MOST PEOPLE'S HEAD……..ASK PILATE

His bookshelf has no books! The most telling aspect of this spot isn't the alleged subliminal cross; the barren bookshelf illustrates the intellectual void inhabited by Mr. Huckabee and his evolution-doubting supporters. I doubt the absence of books is a deliberately coded signal of anti-intellectualism. More likely, bookless shelves simply reflect the reality in Huckabee's political community.

RIGHT ON HUCK!- WHY ARE "ATHEIST" THE MOST OVERLY SENSITIVE PEOPLE ON THE PLANET?? IS THERE IS NO GOD WHY DOES RELIGION BOTHER THEM SO?

Why does it have to be subliminal? Huckabee makes no bones about his Christianity. I am an Obama supporter, but I respect Huckabee. I think I could live with him as President, even though I am not Christian. He is a thinking man. He doesn't set off my bush-dar.

I have never understood why fundamental Christians display the cross at Christmas?

The Christmas religious symbol is the Star of Bethlehem heralding the arrival of the Christ Child.

The Cross is an Easter symbol – heralding Redemption!

This confusion of symbols is "symbolic" of all that is wrong about the so-called "Christian Fundamentalists" who know nothing about the true tenets of the Christian faith!

I'm a Christian and found this pretty lame to do in an election cycle – especially in key states. Just a little disingenuous Mike. You start off by implying that it's not about politics and then no doubt have used political money to show this – unless this came out of your own pocket – then you can do what the heck you want. It's pretty apparent this is a political piece – intended to incite the exact people who are giving you the thumbs up doing it. Isn't there something in the Bible about not bearing false witness?

Of course, the cross was purposeful because it was framed and crafted carefully; these things are looked at with a microscope before airing. I've worked in TV adversiting and believe me nothing is overlooked before it is aired. But, if Huckelberry Hound wants to say Merry Xmas and show a tree and a cross in his ad…. more power to him… it's a free country. I think he is pushing the Christian thing a bit much, but then, the GOP has been playing the religion card for a long time and it's now just more blatant with ads and a cross. Let the people decide with their votes if they want this religious guy as president.

Way to go Huck!! Finally somebody who isn't kissing up to the whining self-righteous, self-absorbed spoiled rotten widdle wiberals. Christmas is about Christ. Get over it. Some people (liberals) just live to be miserable and complain about everything, wallowing in their own self pitty.

Whether or not Huckabee meant for the bookshelf in the backround to portray a cross, the accusation that it represents subliminal messaging is absurd. Subliminal messaging has been proven not to have any effect on the decisions we make by numerous psychology studies. However, while that critisim of his add is rediculous, I agree with many others who have posted here that his comments about Christmas are exactly why he should never be president.

Is CNN sending a subliminal message in the caption under Huck's photo? Read carefully. "Is the bookshelf behind Huckabee in his Christmas ad is a subliminal message?"

There's nothing wrong with the Huckabee ad, if he wants to be President of the Christians. I'm looking for a candidate who wants to be President of everyone.

It's fine to wish people a Merry Christmas, but a candidate who is truly presidential wouldn't have run this commercial.

I know exactly what you mean, President Huckabee!

Around this time of year, I often find myself being irritated by TV commercials that wish everybody "Happy Holidays." Whatever happened to Christmas?!?

Nothing good can come of a human government thinking itself to be above the necessity of praising God for all that's good in the world.

are you kidding me!!??? it's a bookshelf! i'm not a relegious person myself, but even if it really was a cross i wouldn't care. it's his ad, let him do whatever he wants. if you don't like him don't vote for him. but that is definitely a bookshelf, not a cross.

Yeah, well, we also celebrate Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, New Year's Day, orthodox Christmas, some even do Hanukkah and Kwanza, or Solstice, and Eid; and all the days in between we might be taking off work, you know, taking a holiday or two = holidays. Have happy ones. Isn't all that complicated, is it?

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.

If this was really just a "Merry Christmas" message, as Huckabee claims, he broke campaign finance laws by using campaign funds for non-campaign purposes.

People are ridiculous, so what if he had a cross in the background, although it really just seems as more of a very convenient coincidence for his opponents. I am a muslim person living in Canada and frankly find that its stupid and pointless to be unable to say Merry Christmas, or anything to that effect. I say it to people all the time…people need to come to a realization that they live in a Christian country….its not like if people non-christian countries will have to stop promoting their religious holidays because of the Christian population. If you dont like it then that is your problem.

The difference is the Republicans embrace their faith.

100% Total BS!

Republicans only embrace faith and religion to gain POWER. Look at all of the scandals in the Republican Party over the last few years. The Republican Party makes the Democrats look like SAINTS with all of their sex, money and corruption problems.

The only time Republicans embrace religion or faith is to scare up support from the rabid religious right. The Republican Party will use and abuse religion to get whatever they want and that is always power and control.

What scares me is that the Republican Party is starting to take on many of the aspects of the ruling party in Iran. I mean do we really want a Christian version of Extremist Muslim politics in our country? The Republican Party is definitely taking our country in that direction and that is patently Un-American.

I resent the statement that when "we" are celebrating Christmas we are celebrating Christ's birth.

I celebrate Christmas as a purely secular holiday.

As a Muslim I hardly expect Huckabee to say Happy Eid.

So Huckabee a Christian did not say happy holidays. Who really cares. Go to any Patel owned grocery store in NJ and you'll hear educated and well off Indians say Namaste.

Should I stop shopping at these stores simply because they don't wish each other happy holidays?

Let us talk issues. Moral and ethical ones.

Does Huckabee obey the commandments or will he ignore them to suit his "foreign policy" goals?

Come on CNN!

I don't consider myself a Christian, but, you people that have an issue with this really, really need to GET A LIFE!

Are you all for real? A subliminal cross? What a crock! Wake up folks will ya? Mike cares about people, period. He has already stated his views on the seperation of church and state and I guess you folks did not listen. Get real people and grow up. Hey CNN, I'm moving to FOX who actually reports "News" (and voting for Mike!) WE LIKE MIKE!

If he really meant "we," he could have easily wished other Americans a Happy XYZ…you know, "Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, and very Happy New Year to all." Something along those lines.
Everyone has a right to wish people a Merry Christmas – especially if it is their own holiday. Everyone, though, is not running for President of the United States. See in THIS country, we are a mix of all religions. He clearly doesn't feel a need to desire to be inclusive of all Americans.

It's a bookshelf, highlighted by studio lights – but if the country (or a part of it) wants to see a cross in it, cool!

Is it ok for Obama to appeal to blacks because he is? Is it ok for Hillary to appeal to women because she is? You bet! Do you thik they play those 'cards'? You bet! And that's their right.

Were Mike to have prominently displayed a crucifix around his neck that's his right, and he has the right to self-appeal to people he identifies with – the 85% of this country who self-identify as Christians.

Nothing in politics is accidental or ad-libbed – especially Christian propaganda.

I have to wonder what sort of dim-wit would try to read a "subliminal message" into a bookshelf. A Christian cross, perhaps, intended to warn potential voters away from supporting a (gasp) Mormon like Romney?

But wait — I thought Mormons WANT others to think of them as being a "Christian" church, too. So why should the symbol of the cross (even if it is only a bookshelf) be any less an endorsement for Mitt Romney than for Mike Huckabee? (Or for that matter, for Fred Thompson, Barack Obama, or any other politician I can think of, except parhaps Joe Lieberman?)

Oh, right. Mormons don't like or use the symbol of the cross. Never have. Odd, isn't it. The LDS insist that others should consider their denomination to be "Christian" because, as they point out, they believe in Jesus Christ. This would seem to make sense except for the fact that it would lead one to also think anyone who believes in the Book of Mormon should therefore be considered a "Mormon", right?

Wrong. The LDS Church emphatically denies that the approximately 40-60,000 people who currently believe in and practice modern polygamy based on the teachings of the Mormon founder Joseph Smith should be entitled to be called "Mormons".

The term the LDS Church uses instead for those people?

They call them "cultists."

Actually the message I was getting says "Vote Early! Vote Often!"

"I don’t know what else to call Christmas, last time I checked that is what we celebrate."

Here's the important point of his comment: who exactly is "we"? Him and his family … or the American people?

First to the previous Blog that said that Huckabee's Theology Degree is not a real college education. Please remember that Harvard was also established by and for Christians and still has a prestigious Theology Degree program. And, to those who say religion can not effect a choice for President I say what a load of leftist secular humanist garbage. A candidates religious views effect his world views which effect his political decisions. For a quick example. A fundamentalist Muslim believes Isreal should be thrown into the sea where as a Christian believes Isreal has a GOD given right to a home land. This is just ine of many examples where your religion will shape your politics.

VERY WELL PUT, JONAH FROM BOSTON, my old home town.

Recently there was an article in our local paper about a Christian church – think it is the Church of God, or something similar – that refuses to celebrate Christmas BECAUSE THERE IS NOTHING IN THE BIBLE about it!! In fact, early in this country's history, Christmas was not celebrated at all.

I saw the Huckster's Christmas commercial and frankly it scared me. He is folksy, he is funny, he is so very Christian, and he is getting quite a following. But as Jonah said: He does not believe in Evolution!! What, if we don't believe in the bible, we aren't good people, we aren't good Americans?

After Romney's "faith speech", Joe Biden actually said something to the effect that it shouldn't even matter if a person is an atheist. Faith is something personal. It should NOT be part of the presidential race. December is a month for widely different holidays observed by Christians, Jews, Muslims, as well as Africans the world over. (These are just the holidays I know of; there could be more). What can be so wrong about saying Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays

Not intentional?? Then why does the bookcase have more light on it than the darned Xmas tree and most of the Huckster's face?

"Last time I checked [Christmas] is what we celebrate"

-Sorry for centuries it's been the begining of the Winter Solstace that we celebrate. Romans celebrated the God Saturn on this day. There's very little truly Christian about your so-called "Christ-mass" The tree is Pagan, as well as the yule log. The exchanging of presents was from the Roman Saturadia. Celebrating Winter Solstace goes back to the Egyptians, long before your Jesus was thought of. And for almost two centuries after the so called life of Jesus, No christians celebrated X-mas.

It's only been in the last 100 yrs that Christmas has been celebrated by Christians. Remember that on "The Day of Saturn",while you sit next to the Pagan Tree, under your Druid Misiltoe.

The Reason for the Season ISN'T Jesus.

Sorry This season was already taken, enjoy it if you wish – but remember your place.

Is this the best people can do to attempt to come up with something negative about Mike Huckabee? Leave him alone already! I just have two comments for the post be BlueGoose. First of all, if you are going to make statement like your statement about the Republican Party should just change it's name to The "Christian Party" and be done with it then at least have the guts to own up to it by posting your name. Second, I agree most Christians are Republican because the Republican Party best represents our values on issues such as marriage, abortion and I am proud to be a part of the Republican or "Christian Party" as you would call it.

It was philosopher and poet, Georges Santayana, who said
"those who do not study history are doomed to repeat it."
Enough Said!

I agree with Huckabee's add. I think Christians's should stand up up for what they believe. We need a strong Godly leader for president.

Okay, ENOUGH! Is Obama black enough? Is Huckaby too Christian? I wonder if Hillary is woman enough or if Romney is Morman enough? Let's stick to the issues in this election and leave all the nit picking out of it!!

Huckabee should feel free to wish people Merry Christmas or whatever other holiday greeting he prefers. It's pretty simple to say Happy Holidays, but if he'd rather not be inclusive, that is his perogative. But don't try to start a quasi-culture war by making the issue into a "woah is me, I'm a clear-cut majority of the country and I'm oppressed."

For the first time in years, someone is willing to stand up for his fellow Christians. At least Mike Huckabee is not embarrassed to be a Christian.
Christians are the only group that is being discriminated against. It is time that someone defended our Lord. America has been blessed by God, and we are losing His protection due to those who try to deny Him.
We need to pray for Mike Huckabee and his family. Christians have always been under attack. The more publicity that Mike receives, the devil will use the liberals to attack him as they attacked Jesus.

Subliminal? It was totally liminal! Jesus Jesus Jesus….that's all this man knows how to say. I'm sick of it. Keep your Jesus out of my governement.

I am a democrat but I have to back Huckabee on this. He is a Christian who was just saying Merry Christmas to those who accept it. The last time I checked, we Christians celebrate Christmas around this time. If you don't celebrate Christmas then OH WELL…he wasn't referring to you!!!! STOP BEING SO OFFENDED OVER SMALL THINGS AND ENJOY YOUR CHRISTMAS!!!!

You know if that is a bookself behind Huckabee then it would have shown the lines from the beginninjg until the end of the ad. I'm sorry but only highliting a short segment of the shelf did what they wanted it to accomplish.

It's interesting how everyone loses sight of the original intent of our founding fathers regarding Separation of Church and State… their intent was to keep the State from establishing a State-sponsored church (much like China is doing now)… NOT to keep religion out of politics. I'm not asking you to believe me, but if you dig a little deeper instead of believing the limited perspective taught by our public school systems, you WILL be surprised!

I think it is tragic that we are generally unwilling to look to our American history to see see how our Founding Fathers looked to the Bible in establishing the Constitution and all the freedoms and liberties that result for people of ALL race, gender and religions. I'll always be more inclined to place more trust in a leader that looks to Divine guidance than one that doesn't.

This is a "campaign advertisement"

If Huckabee wanted to be a real Christmas hero he would have used his own money to produce and air the ad.

He didn't.

For any of you who are wondering.
I believe Preside…I mean Mr. Huckabee was referring to how the media and much of the world falsely believed Paul McCartney had died in 1969.

Shouldn't all these people worried about the War on Christmas become Catholics since that's where the word came from?

Ian, it was a Beatles reference, not a Ron Paul reference. People thought that there was a subliminal message in a Beatles album that said "Paul is Dead". I know many Ron Paul supporters want to make everything about him, but Huckabee was just wishing everybody a Merry Christmas and he got attacked for it.

"Men never do evil so completely and cheerfully as when they do it from religious conviction"
- Blaise Pascal

There is nothing this man will not stoop to in his fervor to cram his religious beliefs down the throat of citizens whether they want it or not. Obviously the intent in framing this spot was to imply 'Christian Beliefs'.

Won't work, Yuckleberry. Get religion out of your campaign except to pray to your maker that you won't break down and cry when you've been soundly defeated.

The same "wink and a nod" that Bush gave earlier in his presidency when he spoke behind a podium with a cross on the front.

I wonder if Huck will join any protests if some store, oh, like Target, displays a "Happy Holidays" sign instead of "Merry Christmas"?

Keep your religion to yourself, Huck. I neither need nor want it.

“I don’t know what else to call Christmas, last time I checked that is what we celebrate."
Did he forget Hanukah and Kwanza? Not everyone celebrates Christmas during this time of year! America is multi-cultural or did you forget that too?

The ad is hardly his problem. The man is a real nutjob and will never be President. Now he's good for entertainment.

"Paul is Dead"

Posted By Ian, Eastham MA : December 18, 2007 4:37 pm

This is not a reference to Ron Paul, Ian.

Since you asked this question, I'm guessing that you are either in your 20s or 30s and do not remember when The Beatles were still performing together. Back in the Late '60s, there were widespread rumors that Paul McCartney had died and been replaced by a look-alike. There were supposed to be clues in the Beatles music. For example, on the cover of "Abbey Road", Paul is barefoot while the other Beatles are not – allegedly proof that Paul was dead. And supposedly you could hear the words "Paul is dead" if you played certain Beatles records backwards. Of course, not everyone had record players that played backwards.

As you said, Ron Paul is very much alive. And so is Paul McCartney.

Ian commenter you're showing your youth. Its a reference to an urban legend concerning the Beatles' Paul McCartney. Just google "paul is dead" and learn a little something about music.

If I thought a person of the Jewish faith running for president was best suited for the job, thats who I would vote for. I don't know why a person proud of their faith makes them a poor candidate for a leader. I am voting for Hilary Clinton in the upcoming election so this is not standing up for my candidate. I know several atheists that celebrate Christmas and the only group as a whole that I know of in the United States that doesn't celebrate some kind of winter holiday in December are the Jehovah's Witnesses, and you never hear them saying one word about everything being Christmas or if you wish them a Merry Christmas they say thank you and go along with their day. If you celebrate something other than Christmas promote it. I don't think you will find any Christians that are going to try to make you feel bad for it. But please leave us alone because we are the majority and proud of our faith and what this time of year means to us.

Haha. It really is astounding what people can come up with if they look hard enough.

And to save you the time, it says nothing backwards. You'll hear only gibberish.

Mike Huckabee's message is about as subliminal as a two-by-four hitting you upside the head.

I beleive it is called seperation of church and state. Huck Finn here would not understand that. he thinks the Bible is the constitution. This guy scares me more than Hillary or Mitt. They are all a joke.

Ron Paul is the only Candidate that speaks the truth, understands the constitution and the Federal reserve what a joke it is. It is owned by Wall Street and Wall Street is owned by the govt.

Wake up America. Huck has no idea about these issues he is too busy preaching!!!!!!

These good old boys need to stay on the farm

this is guite funny,,, truthfully funny. Life is but every bit astonishing.

Uhh… Jonah, do you realize that it's called the "theory of evolution"? No, it's not a fact, as you claim, anymore than the story of Adam and Eve is. I still don't see why so many people are hung up over Huckabee's beliefs about the creation of the world. After all, it's all speculation because nobody was around when it happened anyway. How about we focus on current political/social/economic issues facing us TODAY, instead of worrying about how many birthdays Earth has celebrated?

Really? Then why did the camera pan around ever so slowly to place the "cross" right behind his head? People that make these spots are very smart and have studied film making and marketing. You know what you did, we know what you did, lets move on.

all right, way to go mike. merry christmas. americans sick of the non religious trying to take religion out of everything — from the 10 commandments, pledge of allegience, to a holiday that millions around the world celebrate — have a man they can look up to. values, faith, morals and the courage to stand by them are the most important traits in a leader as they will guide you through tough decisions. you don't have to shove your faith down others' throats, but it is nice to see someone showing genuine faith and not just going to church when the cameras are rolling.

"Paul is Dead"

Where did that come from? This guy seems to have a sick sense of humor. Maybe that's why his kid hung a dog and slit its throat.

Anyway, Ron Paul is still quite alive.

Good for Huckabee! It's about time that someone spoke up as to the real reason for "Christmas". People don't mind taking time off work or having parties at Christmas time. If they don't believe in Christmas they need not have parties and take this time off of work. They just need to continue their everyday routines and let those of us who believe in it celebrate our beliefs the way other feel inclined to do theirs.

I am a far left liberal, but while I don't want a manger scene on public property or the ten commandments in our courtrooms, I find the degree of political correctness regarding Christmas to be a little ridiculous. However, this advertisement (and Huckabee's subsequent defense of it) is pretty insulting. Case in point:

“I don’t know what else to call Christmas, last time I checked that is what we celebrate."

No, Huckabee, that is what YOU celebrate. "We" do not have a national religion. Some people celebrate other holidays, and some people celebrate nothing. Comments like this from Huckabee make me think the forced political correctness may actually be worth it.

And what about all the ultra-religious Christ talk in the ad itself? That's pretty overtly offensive and scary coming from someone who wants to be president– someone, who may I remind you, DOES NOT BELIEVE IN EVOLUTION. Repeat those five words in your head every time you see this guy, and never forget that he's a blind follower of fundamentalist religion and so stupid that he does not believe in scientific fact (as if that should even be a matter of belief). Frankly, I'd love to see a politician who's intellectual, forward-thinking, and thoughtful enough to declare that he doesn't have a religion. Even my main man Kucinich fails that test.

As far as the subliminal message goes, my response is, "what?" What would be the point of a subliminal message in a blatantly religious ad that mentions Christ by name? To Huck's credit, his "Paul is dead" line was a pretty good retort.

No. Nevermind. I'm not giving this religious nut credit for anything.

Kucinich '08

I like Huckabee. Whoever is criticizing a former Baptist Minister about Christmas ads, is making a terrible mistake, especially around this time of the year. While people like Mitt and Thompson and McCain are firing "rounds" at Huckabee, Huckabee remains on target with a positive message for Christmas celebrators. This makes the attacker look really bad, especially in South Carolina.

If Mike Huckabee deliberately went for a crucifix effect, shame on him. I don't believe it.

As a Jew, I am tired and insulted by the whole Christian argument that serves to segregate non-Christians from some "inner circle" of "saved souls." Why can't they just enjoy their advantage as they see it!
These leaders have no idea what it's like to live in a Christian dominated world. It demonstrates a lack of emotional intelligence, primarily empathy, when they rant on about Jesus (who was a Jew afterall, his teachings steeped in Judeo principles like love thy neighbor, first spoken by Rabbi Hillel, by the way!)

Let's move on from this; it is a hefty example of the pettiness of the religious argument.

Candidates must recognize that values are present in many traditions and that we, as the American people, are stronger when we tap into the righteousness of us all.

PS—As a former production director, the serendipity of lighting and "effects" are most often unplanned. I don't believe Huckabee is that depleted of spirit.

A beatles reference! It's nice to see one of these guys has a sense of humor about the absurdity of the critics. I don't care what you celebrate most American's celebrate Christmas, let's stop playing to the minority of people all the time. Just because someone wishes you a Merry Christmas doesn't mean you are required to change your beliefs. I would be just as touched if someone wished me a Happy Holiday, Hanukah, Christmas, or Kwanza. It's the thought people stop being so sensitive about the small details that you lose the big picture.

What subliminal message? Perfectly obvious to me, America is becoming more and more like Germany in the 1930s. Only this time, we Jews will not go quietly.

Huckabee,keep your anti-semitic thoughts to yourself. This is AMERICA, where everyone can worship as they please and religion has NO place in politics!

This has to be the stupidest attempt to discredit Huckabee's message. The back ground shelves look like a plus sign, not a cross.

It would seem people are obsessed with Huckabee to the point of insanity.

"I don’t know what else to call Christmas, last time I checked that is what we celebrate."

That's the issue, Huck. It's not what "we" celebrate. It's what YOU celebrate. Unless by, "we", you aren't including the non-Christian American citizens in your message of well wishes.

It's the same problem with "In God We Trust" and "Under God" in the Pledge. Either non-theists aren't Americans, or they're deemed of a lesser value than "real" Americans.

It has been shown to be a good tactic recently. He might want to rally the Christian base, since he it should bring in votes while not costing him any.

What, a protestant preacher holding the Christ Mass? Most of us just settle for celebrating the more secular holiday of Christmas, but perhaps Huck's denomination is more catholic. And does he mean that he purposefully said 'Merry Christmas' and not 'Happy Holiday,' but didn't notice a whackin' big cross behind him? Naah. He doesn't lie well. He'd have noticed a swastika or peace sign in that same spot, I betcha.

I would never let anyone tell me what to call it either. Good for You Huck.

I have no plans to vote for Huckabee, though I'm not full-bore against him as I am most of the Republican candidates and a couple of the Democratic candidates.

That being said, it doesn't matter whether there was any intent in the bookshelf/cross. What matters is his response, and I think its safe to say he just gained a LOT of votes with his response.

From a strictly neutral view: well played, Mike…well played.

"Last time I checked [Christmas] is what we celebrate"

Actually, I don't celebrate Christmas and I am American and WE the People have a first amendment which prohibits Congress from declaring a state religion.

For that matter, it also prevents Congress from censoring someone like Huckabee for saying Merry Christmas. But don't speak for the Royal We Mr. Huckabee. I find that offensive.

It's a shame when a Christian candidate in a mainly Christian nation is actually critized for wishing people a Merry Christmas. Evangelicals are often accused of intolerance by liberal types. But those same liberals cannot tolerate Christianty and will do anything to remove all aspects of faith and religion from society.

The Republican party is a Christian party, so are the Democrats so are 90% of the American people. The difference is the Republicans embrace their faith. The Democrats are only Christians when it suits their political careers.

No story here. It's a bookshelf.

He also could have pointed out the Christ Mass would have been Catholic. But hey, the guy is presenting himself as a preacher that entered politics without taking off the collar. Without regards to his policies, that by it self removes him from consideration by Americans. The separation of Church from State is under siege and he represents a battering ram. If you must vote for the party of Chaney, Abramoff, Gonzo and Duke Cunningham, then vote Ron Paul.

Yet ANOTHER non-story story. What is going on? Don't you folks at CNN have any real stories to put on the ticker?

Huckabee is showing he is willing to play the same religon card that Bush has in the last 2 elections. The ol' "Attention Christians we are under attack".. Why don't the Republicans just rename their party the 'Christian Party' and be done with it. Its a good tactic though- it takes attention away from the fact that Huckabee didn't graduate from a real college, raised taxes to pay for illegal immigrants, and lets rapists out of jail if they find Jesus.