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Last I checked the Gov't was secular and not dictated by a reglious authority. This is why we have separation of church and state. The United States of America is not a Christian nation contrary to what Newt and his buddies may think. It includes peoples from all walks of life and various religous and non-thestic backgrounds.

Hey Newt, separation of Church and State. Ever hear of it? Guess not...

Why shouldn't the government be secular??? Read the Constitution. Gingrich wants a theocracy – yeah, that's worked wonders in the middle East... He's a has-been and his ignorant comments prove that.

The guy is a former Methodist minister. How exactly does that make him 'anti-religious'?

And Obama is celebrating Passover at the White House tonight. Just because he's not a toe-tapping evangelical hypocrite like a lot of Republicans does not make him "anti-religion."

But even if he were: ever hear of separation of church and state?

Some people seem to forget that we are supposed to have a secular government. Newt, Obama's move wasn't "anti-religious." Your reaction to it was "anti-America." And now that we're talking about it, so are our government's faith-based initiatives.

This isn't the "White House advisory council on CHRISTIAN initiatives" and plus its a 25 member group. This guy will have 1/25 of a voice, which I think is a fair representation of the gay community. I disagree with a lot of Obama's policies but if anything, he seems to want a diverse group of people for this council. It shouldn't be all people of one specific religion.

Obama does not consult Jesus before he makes decisions? Oh the humanity!

Gingrich's statement is just more of the same fear-mongering posturing we've come to expect from the GOP. The statement is completely baseless. That said, I'd rather have the government in charge of a secular America than the Religious Right in charge of a Christian nation. At least you can vote out the government.

Obama and his administration are acting as the voice of reason. There's no legitimate reason for any religious entity to have any control over any aspect of our government. The administration isn't "anti-religious", they just are aware of fundamental importance of keeping PRO-RELIGIOUS RIGHT WING ZEALOTS out of the process.

I agree with Newt Gingrich. It looks like Obama is becoming anti-religious. A gay bishop made a speech during the eve of his inauguration. Surprisingly gay couples are going to attend easter celebration in the white house.

Although I love Obama, I seriously object to a gay rights activist heading a faith-based organization. I object to someone trying to paint current Christian leaders such as the pope as "discredited" whilst generally trying to integrate gay and transgender agendas into religion. I find it an absolute abomination.
With all this said, however, Newt Gingrich is still a moron, and his chances of becoming president of this country are virtually non-existent.

Why is "religion" defined in terms of gay marriage, abortion, etc? There is so much more to religion, such as ethics, morals, spirituality and social conscience.

When people start forcing their "religion" on other people it is not a good thing.

Is this guy grasping at straws or what? The more desparate the wingnuts get. the more ridiculous their rhetoric becomes. If it wasn't so funny to watch them self-distruct I'd feel sorry for them.

It's the 21st century people get over it, you couldn't stop women, Irish-Americans, nor blacks from being equal in our society...what makes you think gays will be any different?

Fear, fear, fear...all these people do is strike fear where it actually hurts us the most...wake up!

There's a huge difference between "secular" and "anti-religious". I can see where some republicans are shocked at the secular tone being set now as opposed to the evangelical one they're used to. However as someone who is truly "anti-religious", I don't see the administration attacking outdated tax breaks on fundraising organizations that call themselves churches. I don't see any proposals to limit religious extremeist speech to present as a model to other countries. The only anti-religious thing I can hope for is increased focus on real education reform which might teach free thinking instead of standardized testing (as more educated people tend toward less religious affiliation).
I'm afraid it will be a long time before we can get a truly anti-religious president...

Gay people can be religious too, you know. Some are even Christian. Is that a mote in your eye? I can't see it so well past this beam in my own.

Duh...separation of church and state. Thank goodness there will be no "favortism" toward any religion under this administration.

But by all means lets try to scare all the Christians so that Newt can get votes in 2012.

I was also disppointed when the President placed Knox on his faith-based advisory council. It is not because he is gay. It is because of his obvious and outpsoken anger and intolerance for those who hold views contrary to his. He sounds like a real hypocrite, angrily denouncing the Pope and others for their views, calling them names, accusing them of all sort sof things, and therby showing that he, himself, is the one most guilty of all he is condeming.

Gawd.

What's wrong with these people? Seriously.

It's one thing to legitimately question or even complain about something, but it's quite another to begin each day with a brand new, FOUNDLESS gripe.

These constant and ridiculous complaints can't possibly be about the country's well being. Surely their goal is to somehow benefit the Republican party.

Can I honestly be the only American who is beginning to HUGELY QUESTION THEIR SANITY AND THEIR MOTIVES???

what happened to separation of church and state

It's people like these that make seperation of Church and State impossible.

Secularism is NOT anti religious!! It is meant to keep peace among people of differing beliefs. Some Christians are not anti-gay, but unfortunately, many are. To reaffirm one groups religious beliefs by, for example, banning same sex marriage so that pasters won't be "forced" to marry same sex couples or be sued for descrimination (which is not true!) has the effect of forcing pasters who WANT to marry same sex couples from being able to do so. Who's religous beliefs are being violated here? The government should treat everyone fairly, without taking sides.

So, where is the problem ? In this age of humanism people have learnt to distinguish between priests and pedophiles and when they are not willing to being preached to from the pulpit that evolution is heresy.

After Georgie Porgie Pudding and pie, who used to talk to God regularly, and yet screwed the nation up, what's so wrong ?! Gingrich, humanism is the best form of religion.

Its called.....~ahem~... separation of Church and State.... maybe Newt hasn't heard of it.... but as a politician, you would think there are far more important things that actually NEED attention, that he has chosen to ignore over the years.... maybe its time for his type of closed minded politicking to move on

The Obama adminstration IS less focused on religion, as they should be. Religion has no place in our government. Hello... Separation of church and state?

I commend this appointment. Obama's method is to put people who disagree with each other at the same table so they can work it out. There are 25 people on this advisory council, shouldn't at LEAST one of them represent the GLBT Americans?

Lord knows the far-right and the GLBT community has been fighting each other for so long, its time to work out those differences. I think people like Newt Gingrich would prefer to just keep fighting, but the rest of us are getting SICK of it!

This country was BASED on SEPERATION OF CHURCH & GOV'T..

Go back to England you idiot!!!!!!!

Gingrich calls the Obama administration "asecular group of people who are consciously trying to drive things out."

Funny. You could accuse the Bush administration of the exact same thing, but in reverse. If you didn't believe in God under the Bush administration, you didn't count. At least the Obama administration makes room for divergent opinions instead of the catatonic group-think of Bush and his fellow Evangelical cronies!

No. They aren't anti-religious. Their religious beliefs just aren't consistent with Newt's. This is fear mongering, attempting to stir fundamentalist/conservative zeal by reinforcing the simple-minded us-and-them mentality that was so effective for the Bush II administration. Those days are past, and the religious right needs to get over it. Most of us recognize that there are plenty of seats at the Lord's table, and not all of them, if any of them, are reserved for bigots.

One more thing: Newt is an intelligent man, and this shameful pandering is beneath him. You'd think he's looking to run for office again.

Anti-religious? I think not. Including all groups and members of our society sounds like pro Democracy to me. When did that concept stop being a good thing...

Pardon me while I yawn. Back to the 90s here for some far-right trash talk from a man who lived and died in the 90s.

Newt holds no public office, was widely discredited, even in his own party, as one of the most hypocritical public servants in the nation's history, and has no discernible constituency. Yet he seems to hang on as somehow relevant in the eyes of certain media, such as CNN and Fox News.

What gives? Can't we just move on?

What's wrong with a secular government? Is that not what we are supposed to be anyways?

I like the idea that our country will not be dictated by religious beliefs, but rather by rational, secular decisions. That is how it should be done.

People will still be religious, but the governments should inherently not be.

Maybe Anti-his religion, but NOT anti-Christian. Seems to me that an administration that fights for healthy families, peaceful solutions to world problems, reduced poverty, and better world-wide communications is MORE religious than what we have had recently. Unless of course Newt is suggesting that the meaning of Christs teachings is to start wars with everyone. It is a curious position to take to be sure.

Dear God, please help Newt Gingrich to be more tolerant. Amen.

Newt has this right! This appointment is a strategic move to get america away from it's founding principles and into a Socialist paradise where govt controls everything.

There seems to be a pattern developing to tear down and object to all issues, nominations for posts, etc...by the republican party of no ideas. President OBAMA is the president of the UNITED STATES of AMERICA, a nation of immigrants from all parts of the world. The Catholic Church is not the dominant religion and has it's own "moral" issues to solve. Stop pointing fingers.

What? So having a secular America is bad? Its certianly a lot better than having one based on religion. I couldnt wait until Bush got out of office and took his supersticious dogma with him and his followers. (please excuse my spelling)

The only thing religous based laws do is create hate, crime, and bannishments such as books and movies, etc...

Religion is a private idea and should not be forced upon others who do not share those faith-based ideas.

Government SHOULD BE secular to protect people to worship anyway they want.

"Anti-religious" is hardly a bad thing. For all the self-promotion that Christianity does for itself, there's a significant number, particularly among the radical Fundamentalists, who would seek to oppress both science and competing religions. It is only our Constitution that stands between us and the Christian equivalent of the Taliban regime.

People of faith come in all shapes, sizes and beliefs. What this means is that the idea of faith is being allowed to be broad and the administration is embracing the disparity among believers. Hello – this is a good thing. While Christianity may be The Truth to you, the rest of the world would beg to differ. And no faith should have a corner on the market. Americans have the right to not believe Christian tenants. Quit whining. Thank you.

Keep government out of our religion, and keep religion out of our government. Everybody wins.

Anti-religious means without God in the sense that Mr. Gingrich is using it. But, doesn't a lack of God in this sense essentially mean atheism? Now, I don't have a problem with atheists, I disagree with them, but I don't hold their beliefs against them. Here's my point: if atheism is technically and legally regarded as a religion, then by using the term anti-relgious in the way he is, Mr. Gingrich is contradicting himself.

Harry Knox is anti-religious? I'll bet that will come as a shock to those in ecumenical, progressive churches working closely with the Human Rights Campaign to foster more inclusive, tolerant attitudes and actions in the church as well as in secular America. Many of us, myself included, are very religious. We're anti-hatred and anti-bigoted, not anti-religious–and so is Knox.

Of course Obama is anti-religious. I guess that's why Republicans attacked him so strongly on the basis of what church he attended for 20 years.

I also assume that's why the Obama Administration just announced the VERY first Passover Seder observance at the White House.

Someone please wake me up when any Republican (at all) starts actually talking seriously about fixing our weakened infrastructure, getting people back to work or rebuilding our horrible economy. Until then, I really don't care what 'Eye of Newt' and his merry band of idiots are spouting!

It would appear to be leading that way; but one piece in the many representing "change." Lots of people appear to like that because they know what "change" is, just not what exactly the president means by change.

There are other religions in the world and in our country besides Christianity. Our nation is a melting pot of those who worship differently and those who don't worship at all. We live in a representative democracy, not a theocracy...get over it. I'm proud of President Obama's inclusive attitude and actions.

"I think their goal is to have a very secular America in which government dominates everything,"

So you would have your religion dominating our way of life! Religion is a choice, and with so many religions out there who is to say your specific religion is right! Too many have been killed in the name of God for selfish "human" ego and power! Every one takes there own path to enlightenment.. whatever that may be, and that is an American right!

I'm surprised by Gingrich's theocratic commentary given the fact that he is a history professor. It was clearly our Founding Father's intent that church and state be separate, and our government - by intent - is secular.

isn't there supposed to be separation of church and state? i don't understand how this country is run by a religious majority, how is it possible that with the technology of today people still believe they have an invisible friend that watches everything, but does nothing.

It's government Newt. It's not church. Of course it's secular. What part don't you get?

Hey Newt, Have you read the constitution lately?There's this seperation of church and state thing you might want to check out.

Did Mr. Gingrich sleep through that section of the Constitution regarding separation of Church and State? Our President is supposed to have secular political views. What he believes in his own heart is his business. How he runs our government should not be influenced by his religious beliefs.

Anyway, I thought you guys were all for separation of church and state? And that you hated Obama's former pastor? I'd think you'd be glad. Oh wait, it's Obama, you have to complain and whine.

Calling the admistration "anti-religious" only shows admistration respecting the seperation of Church and State. But then how is he anti-religious when he used to be a pastor? And wouldn't that show the administration does not respect the seperation of C and S? Doesn't seem to make a whole lot of sense to me. Maybe because it doesn't make sense. It's an open ended argument propped up by the media and politicians. One more trivial thing to occupy our, the American's, time, that will not make a difference whether the admistration is anti or pro religious. Oh well, let the debate begin I say, Half the people in the country still think we are the center of the universe!

"I think their goal is to have a very secular America ..." just like it says in the Constitution! What a concept!

Of course the religious right, and Newt feel this way – they want a christian nation, with our secular laws changed into christian laws. I for one see that goal as an equal to the Taliban goal of enforcing their version of law upon others. This is a secular nation, it's about time the President of this country drives the country that way. Bush thought god put him in office, how pathetic. Let's leave religion where it belongs – in places of worship, and our homes. Let's leave science, the rule of law, and voters' wishes where they belong – in government.

Gingrich just confirms how out of touch and how bitter Republican leaders and operatives are. Obama is anything but anti-religious. Newt needs to accept that religious comes in all stripes and are not just rightist fundamentalists. The reason Obama is president is because he's welcoming all to the table- even Gingrich. So why not engage in civil repartee rather than in continuing the vitriol and demonization of others. Those who put Obama in office are tired of the rancor.

First of all, nothing wrong with being anti-religion. For goodness sake, is it not the cause of all that is wrong in the world? Second, clearly the administration is NOT anti-religious. They respect everyone's right to practice whichever religion works for them. Which is how it should be for a world leader.

Still trying to fire up those culture wars, eh Newt? If there is a better example of yesterday's man than Gingrich, I can't think of one.

This country was founded on the principal of separation of church and state. What is it with these GOP boobs? Why are they constantly trying to interject religion into politics? Why won't Gingrich go away?

Nwet is wrong. Having secular tendacies do not make you anti religious. It is falacious logic on his part. Besides he is just running for President and any press is good press for him.

Good grief! One distinguished gay on a 25 person panel. Now 4% of this panel is homosexual. This represents an anti-religion agenda? Is it impossible for gays to be decent religious people? Is this what Newt believes?

During the last eight year's Newt's party put a fox in charge of nearly every government henhouse – from Coal executives responsible for mining safety to extraction lobbyists in charge of the Interior Department, Agriculture, the EPA, etc. etc. He apparently thought that this was perfectly OK. At least he is consistent in his partisan bomb throwing. He's done that consistently and shamelessly since the 90s.

The Republican Party is too funny.

Like 2 articles down is about Obama hosting a Seder at the White House. Ha!

as long as gingrich , bush and the "moral" lol "majority" are anti obama, then i can guarantee you one thing,, we are safer as a nation than we have been in generations.. hey newt.. the world hates self righteous christians,, not americans.. havnt you figured that out yet..

coexistance is possible, as long as you are not a self righteous hyopcrite!

We elect a president ot the country, not a religious leader. The Republicans seem unable to grasp that idea and are at the mercy of only one of this countries many religions and not an especailly compassionate or understanding small segment of that religion.

The Government is supposed to be secular, nitwit.

It's interesting that such a "professed" believer in the Bible as Newt claims the Obama administration is being "anti-religious" for naming an out gay man to this WH advisory council on faith while being "intensely secular" at the same time. Of course, he and other believers like him claim Biblical scriptures as the reason gay Americans shouldn't be allowed - among other things - to get married in this country. OK, Newt, is it secularism or holy scripture that prevents gays from marrying at all but allows straight people like yourself to marry as many times as they want? It's that "holier than thou" attitude like yours that gives fanatical right-wing religious nuts such a bad (but well-deserved) rap!

What is so wrong about not wanting or needing religion in your government? These fanatical religious types claim to be for small government, yet they're perfectly happy to have government intrude on your private life to suit their own insecurities. Pathetic.

Besides, being lectured on morals by the man who divorced his wife from her sick bed is just plain silly. Go away Newt, you are not wanted OR needed.

Gays, guns, god. Same old politics of firing up base. Does Newt have any ideas for actually helping anyone? It's not like he had any great accomlishments when he was in Congress.

"Secular" is not the same as "anti-religious." Our government is SUPPOSED to be secular. Maybe Newt thinks America should be a theocracy if he is complaining of secularism?

Gee, ya think this guy is laying the groundwork for a presidential run in 2012? President Obama knows we are a nation of many faiths and governs accordingly. Gingrich is trying to appleal to the right. In anycase, why is pro gay rights anti religious?

What did you expect from a president that went to a church that preached nothing but hatred? That's his idea of religion. This country is going to hell with him at the wheel.

Wait... you're telling me he's an anti-religious FORMER PASTOR?!

Gingrich/Cheney are playing pure negative politics. There are 25 members on that Council. Look at the whole picture. Charging that Obama is anti-religious is outrageous slander. This should not be news. As for Harry Knox, he will have to learn that there is a difference between heading an advocacy group and working toward solutions with people whose views you do not share. It is one thing to be an outspoken advocate for gay rights. It is another to attack people's religious leaders. One can disagree with the pope without belittling him. Though that may not win cheers from donors and supporters on whom Knox depends, it is a better politics, one more aligned with what Obama says he believes.

Anyone who doesn't want a theocracy is "anti-religious" in Newt's book. Trying to stir up culture wars is so 1994...can't he give it a rest already? Gingrich represents the Christian equilavent of the Taliban– Mullah Newt for President 2012!

How can one say their goal is to have a secular America? That is "clearly wrong." First of all, government action should be secular in the sense that it should not side with one religion over any other, regardless of majority or minority.
His unsettled demeanor over the appointment of a representative of the majority of America into an exclusively right-wing christian committee only shows that Ginrich doesn't understand that.

Gingrich fears what he does not understand like most humans do! Characterizing yourself as a "Christian" these days just means you are more judgmental of others and feel morally superior to those who are not like you. Why can't the so called "Christians" remember the teachings of Jesus which said to treat others as you would want to be treated and not to judge. Jesus hung out with the rejects of society! Organized religion is a choice and should not be forced down peoples throats!

The Knox appointment is definitely another step in the right direction for this administration. It's about time that our government moves towards a separation of church and state. Oh, that's right–separation of church and state was actually a foundational principle of our democracy.

Wouldn't the appropriate response be that Gingrich is anti-gay? I mean, what does he base that statement on, really?

America as a secular, non-religious country??! THE HORROR!!!

A secular government is exactly what we need. And it's exactly what our founding fathers had in mind when they created the very documents we still use to guide our nation. Anyone who cries out to the contrary is ignorant of this country's history.

Republicans, Conservatives and Fundamentalists: Stand Down!

You had your moment in the sun. You tried to run the world and pretty successfully manipulated the last administration, which was a disaster.

Religion belongs in the church, not in the government.
The last thing we need is the American equivalent of the Taliban, exerting it's self-granted power against the will of a free nation.

Wait, I thought he was secretly a Muslim... now he's "insanely secular"? Seriously, it's almost comical how disjointed the GOP is right now.

Just because an appointee doesn't follow in lock step with the far right evangelicals doesn't make him/her anti religious. These so called Christians need to get back to basics and remember the teachings of Christ don't focus on sitting up on a throne and passing judgment.

From a political perspective, I believe Newt is just continuing to pander to the Republican base. Maybe he should just spend more time up on the Death Star with Cheney and they can use their lasers against North Korea and the Somali pirates. Arrrgh.

Newt is all wet. This pannel has 25 people on it. Some he agrees with and some he does not. That is America! Why have a council if they all think the same. The idea is to come up with ideas not rubber stamp what is already known. Newit is use to a small tent.

HELLO, where has Gingrich been? This administration has included religion more than the past three presidents. It is just getting more and more rediculous how the Republicans will attack Obama on just about everything. I have just planned on hearing the party of NO just oppose everything that comes out of the white house. The only smart one of the party is Mitt Romney. He said the President will not always be wrong. They need to follow his lead. I sure can understand GOP disagreeing with Obama on alot of policy, but saying no just to oppose on everything is just SAD.

Gingrich had better not include V.P. Biden in that group. He made the comment once "if anyone else says I'm not religious enough, I'm going to shove my rosary down their throat". But maybe that would be a good thing!!

Is this a joke? What is wrong with the government being secular? It is SUPPOSED to be secular! I'm an Atheist, but I seriously find Mr. Gingrich's assumptions to be completely awry. Religious denominations don't like abortion or gay rights and the like, but do they REALLY feel that it is necessary to put laws against those things that affect everyone, even the people who don't adhere to their belief system? I find that personally offensive, Mr. Gingrich.

I am so glad I am Canadian.

Hey NEWT! Separation of church and state! Remember??? Lets keep your silly religion out of all of our politics.

Yes they are anti religious. Let's call a spade a spade. (Are we allowed to say that now?)

Newt clearly wants to be first out of the gate for the necessary fear-mongering it will take to win the Republican nomination.

It is the government's job to be secular. Let's not confuse secular with "anti-religious, Newt. The government is not a faith based institution; it is supposed to represent all peoples regardless of race, religion or sexuality. After years of right wing Christians dominating Republican policy initiatives we have finally "taken back" the government from the religious zealots and are moving towards an egalitarian non-discirmatory democratic institution fit for this era. And if the Pope continues espouse utterly nonsensical positions such as his anti condom platform, he will lose credibility amongst all educated Christians. Not surprised you and Dick C. are not happy with the new approach but the changing of the guard was long overdue!

Another fantastic move by President Obama. This shows inclusiveness, slaps the necons in the face, and furthermore ends the close door policy to the GLBT community from the previous administration. I couldn't be more pleased by this move, and frankly, this is Change We Can Believe In!!

Ah, yes – the party of "NO" continues. I hardly think that one former Methodist minister who supports equal rights on a board of 25 can be considered "anti-religious" and Mr. Know is hardly a zealot . But i suppose the Repbilicans have to continue their bigoted, narrow-minded rhetoric as they have no plans or ideas of their own other than the out of touch wedge issues.

Gingrich is saying anything to get elected.Yes, the country is pulling back to tthe Constitution after the religious Bush years that forgot the Constitution. We have separation of church and state.Obviously Gingrich wants to control our bedrooms where he and the Republicans do not belong. We are not a theocracy in the United States-a point Gingrich has forgotten here.

the USA is clearly going in the right direction in the eyes of both USA's former friends and former enemies. The shift from Bush's religous political fevour to Obama's secular approach in global and internal affairs is not only refreshing but absolutely needed in a world that was beginning to boil with religous hatred.

I say good riddance! Keep religion out of politics! Religion is nothing but a tool to manipulate weak-minded people who cannot think for themselves. Religion was created by mankind, not God. It doesn't belong in politics or governance. It is a personal choice and should be kept to people's private lives. Your beliefs should not be thrust upon me nor should mine to you. The religious nuts in this country are one step away from the radical fundamentalists of Islam. Think for yourself! That is the only path to any kind of true spiritual enlightenment.

very easy to criticize, lets look at Newt Gingrich record, oh that's right, he's not perfect either and left office under less than poor conditions. Go Newt.

*yawn*

Gingrich sure is desperately fanning the flames of ignorance, hysteria and extremism, isn't he? I guess that's all you can do when you have no ideas, no vision, no values, no power and no chance to win elections. Keep babbling and highlighting the childish, reactionary sore-loserism of modern Republicans. How does Obama's 69% approval rating taste?

Apparently the only type of government newt believes in is one that is faith based like the taliban.

Why is this even considered a criticism? I consider it a compliment, and I would hope most other people would. Shouldn't government be secular?

Gingrich is a religious fanatic. He and his ultra christian counterparts all rank right up there with the Islamic fanatics that we call terrorist. Now he is trying to terrorize America by saying we are les safe and the Obama is trying to drive out religion.

Former House Majority Leader Mr. Gingrich is absolutely right about this new nominee Mr. Knox. I see more problems for our country with these liberal/socialist decisions from this administration. People who voted for Obama now are realizing that they made a major error in judgement. Lets hope our Republican leaders in Congress can prevent these proposals from becoming law. Regards, Steve

Isn't that what government is supposed to be? Separation between Church and State? Why does everyone seem to forget that we already have debated this in past history?

Dustin
University of Colorado

This is a nation of HUMAN BEINGS and should not be categorized in any other way.

Gosh Newt, could it be to provide some balance to the inherent bigotry of you and yours when it comes to gay, bi and transgendered folks?

Looking forward to the day when they finally plant you, Newt.

Oh yea, because you know that having a group of people in office who put religion ahead of politics for the last 8 years was so great.

Obama and his team are not anti-religion, they just believe in the separation of church and state.

To challenge any particular religion's values and/or beliefs does not make one "anti-religious". Mr. Gingrich is one of many conservatives that think being "religious" only means being Christian. On the other side, any embrace of a religious leader that does not believe in a left-wing agenda is also somehow bad (i.e. Rick Warren speaking at Inauguration). I thought the point of the initiative was the bring together people of ALL religious beliefs and those without any belief to discuss common goals and interests. If only one religion is advanced, what is the point?

Human rights and equality is more important than an outdated religious book from 2000 years ago . Religion is the opiate of the people

I 100% agree with everything that Mr. Gingrich is saying. I knew that Obama was a horrible choice as president but even in my worst nightmares did I ever imagine that he would do as much damage to the moral fiber of this country in as short of time as he has. If it is against the Bible he is all for it. God help America. No matter what any one thinks, God is in control and those who oppose Him will pay a dear price. I will continue to pray for Obama and the others in this country who continue to defy the only true God in order to better themselves.

You know, maybe its a good thing. First, we are suposed to have a secular government. Second, the last administration didn't do a great job with religion steering the course, time for a change. I thought thats what this election was supposed to provide. Grow up Newt.

The Obama administration is not anti-religious. It just dosen't pander or take orders from from the pope or religious nuts like the right does. Thank god for that.

Newt Gingrich should employ a little introspection and be honest with himself and us. The only religious people he wants to have input are the ones that reflect his (and a lot of right wing conservative christians) views. No diversity here. No difference of opinion allowed. Even though Mr. Gingrich wants more religiousity in the public arena in the US, I'm sure he's virally opposed to it in other nations – say, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, ..... oh right, they're not predominantly christian nations.

Seriously, does Newt think that all of this bitter partisian talk is going to get him in the White House in 2012. He needs to understand that elections are won by the middle of the road candidate

What about when Obama said to Iraq that "America is not a Christian Nation." This confused me because I thought that America was founded on Christian beliefs. Something is really wrong with that, if we denounce God as a nation we will never be blessed and will probably fall into a 3rd world status, we are on our way, with the recession and all.
"Lord help us!"

Typical right-winger: if you don't support right-wing intolerance, you're anti-religion. I'm sure all the religious organizations that welcome LGBT people and support their concerns would have something to say about that. Remember that the new administration is trying to unite *community* and faith-based initiatives, correctly acknowledging that secular organizations are important community resources, both for people of faith and for secular people.

Secular people are real and are usually good and honest! You judgemental, intollerant, quick to cast the first stone Christians are the ones destroying the world! You all sadly MISSED the whole point of being Christlike!

If people listen to Newt for their moral compass they might want to check his background. He has lot's of bad mud in his past. Just because Knox supports gay/lesbian rights does not make him anti-religious. He may be, but that alone is not cause enough to say so. Newt and his buddies hate the "drive by media" and I cannot stand the "drive by Christians" that pick and choose their do's and don't from the Bible like someone ordering take-out from a Chinese restaurant. When Newt stops eating pork and shellfish I will at least know he is practicing from the parts of the Bible he preaches from.

More right-wing nut talk. I'll go out on a limb and say that the hate being spewed along with the lies of the right wing, whether it be related to the 2nd amendment, religion, or else, will cause some traumatic instances over the coming years. It's sick and shouldn't be tolerated by anyone.

So sorry that Mr. Obama does not remember that "in GOD we trust". Our nation wil only become empty without Him.

Religion has no place in politics anyway, Newt. Get that through your thick skull. The fact that you believe something about your particular religion doesn't mean that our country should run based on those beliefs. That's why this country has freedom of religion. It allows all Americans to practice the religion of their choosing, or even no religion. Go worship in a church or at home. Keep it out of Washington.

What else do you expect from a Left Wing Socialist like Obama?

Words have meaning and actions speak louder than words and Obama is a Socialist down to his core. How ELSE do you explain the take over of the banks and two of the Big Three automakers?

Obama is a disgrace to the White House, America and to those in her history who have sacrificed for her, her future and her people.

Hey ... the Bill of Rights is still in effect ... so I can express my opinions ... And if you Left Wing types don't like it .... my opinions are far kinder than what your ilk have said regarding former Pres. Bush.

At least I only call your president a disgrace ... your ilk actively called for Pres. Bush's demise.

I know what lines cannot be crossed. Too bad your side doesn't.

Newt Gingrich said Tuesday the Obama administration is "intensely secular" and "anti-religious,"

hmmmmmmmm....anti-religious. Is that the same thing as seperation between church and state?

Seperation of Church and State is not Anti-Religious. In fact those who advocate more religious involvement with our Government are advocating something UNCONSTITUTIONAL. The belief in a GOD or ANY GOD does not need to be associated with any religion( ie Catholic, Muslim, Quaker, or Puritan). That is why our constitution is written the way it is. Our Founders NEVER wanted to get involved with what was religious or what wasn't !!! Good Grief they would still be in Philadelphia !!!! What we are guaranteed by the Constitution is the freedom to practice our whorship however we wanted too. That being said a membership to a particular religion does not make an individual any less a servant of God or any Higher Being. One only needs to believe. An organized religion does not have a monoply on government or on any country's people. Really not an important issue folks.

Mr. Gingrich, pleases sit down.

I have HAD ENOUGH of politicians mixing their personal religious believes with politics. The U.S. IS NOT a theocracy and I sure hope it never becomes one. It's just a shame that the Republicans have so closely aligned themselves with the politics of the christian right. After eight years of the Jesus-Bush team it's about time we brought some level-headed clear-thinking minds to our country's leadership!

Go Obama!

And thank God if they are anti-religious! Eight years of those religious freaks trying to shove their gullible ways down everyone's throats–and in typical hypocritical fashion, now it's not right when the shoe's on the other foot. The people that claim to be closest to God are always the ones with the most to hide. If God was such a fan of Bush, he would've had a successful presidency.

This is EXACTLY why the Republicans are destined to fade away. As this nation progresses further, we no longer support the ways of the old. Republicans, and the religious extremists believe if its not what they believe, then it clearly must be wrong. This is why they are losing ALL credibility. This country no longer feels that way. We are growing ever more diverse and as a free nation, we the people can believe in whatever we want. No republican or christian extremist is going to tell us what to do. We will simply vote them out of existence.

With that, I fully support the common sense republicans (if there are any) to jump ship while they still can and give rise to the era of Libertarians. The time is now. This is the only means conservatism can survive. christian extremists have destroyed everything republicans used to stand for.

An extremely intelligent and proud Atheist. You will not hold me down!

Maybe we should try governing by reason and intellect, since governing by faith and gut instinct hasn't worked out so well for us so far.

I agree with Newt 100% and I am saddened that our country is falling so far into this degraded idea of non-religion, perpetuated by the lesbian, gay, bisexual community, as well as the athiests, agnostics and others of little moral substance. Our country is in big trouble with this administration in charge.

Separation of Church and State!! And, by the way Newt, just because we're not all right wing conservatives doesn't mean we are all anti-religious! It's time for the church to get back to it's role and stay out of government. You said "I think their goal is to have a very secular America in which government dominates everything"...The only reason gays and lesbians don't have equal rights is because of "government domination". Oh...the double standard!!!

Good. Important decisions that affect all Americans should be made in the most secular manner possible. We are not a theocracy. If individual Americans want to make faith-based decisions that benefit them, they can do it in their own pews on their respective worship days.

Yeah, whatever, Newt. The White House under Bush had staffers LITERALLY running around with Bibles under every arm - and on the tables in every meeting - to appease the far-right that ran policy under Bush. Tell me THAT wasn't a violation of church/state separation! Go Obama! Tear down the far right anti-constitutional clique that ran things before!

I'm a conservation Christian and it is a hard pill to swallow but everyone should have a voice.

Joline
North Carolina

Newt, as usual, is spot on right. Obama's comment that the US is "not a Christian country" shows his lack of understanding of the principals that this country was built on as well as his lack of understanding of the US constitutional provisions of seperation of church and state.

I view Obama as actively hostile to the moral foundations that made this a great nation. What a treacherous four years we have in front of us.

I'm not anti-religious. I'm just against the far right wingers such as the Taliban, Al Queda, most Iranian Mullahs, Branch Davidians, and other evangelical extremists such as the bombers, the shooters, the arsonists, etc. Of course the far left wing also have their own extremists whom I'm also against.

An "intensely secular" administration inclined to grant gay people the human rights they deserve? I don't know, that sounds pretty good to me, Newt.

Even so, who cares if they are "anti-religious"? Isn't this country based off of FREEDOM? Religion is a personal choice and shouldn't dictate laws for everyone.

Yes, that's right. Keep everyone who thinks the same as you away.

Or we could try something new and innovative and have people of all faith's, people who represent all people (gay or straight) to talk and discuss differences. What a novel thought – discussion and acceptance that could actually bring this divided country together.

Or we could go back to the Bush years of the Chrisian Conservative right wanting to decide for everyone how to live, even those people who are agnostic or atheists.

Let's see, I think I'll take Obama's approach.

The only way to have freedom of religion is to prevent any one particular religion from having power. If one religion becomes dominant, then the other religions become oppressed.

Our founding fathers new about this. That is why the USA *IS* a secular society. It says it right on the great seal, "Novus Ordo Seclorum," which is latin for "A new Secular Order."

Obama is doing the right thing in keeping church and state seperate. Would you rather have a state-mandated religion?

Once again, another republican that is against being an "all inclusive" nation where ALL citizens are represented and respected.

For as much as Obama claims to be a Christian man, his policies quite often do not line up with the Bible he claims to read. I understand the argument that gov't can't legislate morality, but it also should not seek to silence the voices of the majority in the nation, by consistently appointing people who represent the minority.

If I were in the Obama administration I would actually take this as a compliment! I feel scared and sick when I see how much religion affects every aspect of our lives and how religious people and governments take it as their right to judge and condemn anybody who does not believe in something that some guys said over 2000 (and in some cases even more)years ago!

The White House is having a Passover Seder tonight. To me this shows a deep respect for religions.

Newt Gingrich doesn't know what he is talking about. There is more than one religion in America that needs to be respected by the US Government. There is even more than just his one form of Christianity in the US. Something seemingly forgotten by the loudest GOP'ers.

Quite simply Newt, SEPARATION OF CHURCH AND STATE. Please remember this IS AMERICA.

The Power of Nighmares. It looks like Newt is trying to convince Americans that they have everything to fear when it comes to the President. What Newt does not offer is an alternative. I'm sure it would please him to have a theocratic regime in the US

Shouldn't the administration be "intensely secular"? Isn't that the separation of Church and State that is one of the tenets of America?

Since church and state are to be separate, this shouldn't even be an issue.

"They want a secular society where the government dominates everything". Oh, so Mr. Gingrich wants a religious society where religion dominates everything. I'm not sure which one is worse, but being a libertarian I want neither. That's why I guess I'm politically homeless, have been for many years

We NEED a secular administration. Religion was pushed down our throats too much with Bush!

This country was founded as a secular country, so it's fitting that the President should keep it that way. America is not a Christian theocracy no matter how much you want it to be. We all have a voice, not just you right-wing Christians.

If this is indeed the case, I'll i can say is THANK GOD......

This is news? What parts of Obama's administration did people think were favorable to religion?

But beyond this issue, why has Obama nominated the most extreme, leftist people when he campaigned on working together and bridging the gap?

President Obama has been heavily criticized by many from the right because he stated that the US is not just a country of Christians but also many other religions and beliefs. This is a fact and the right has become so out of touch that they see it as being radical to state this simple fact. He is also being criticized for his attempts to improve relations with the Arab/Muslim world. I think we desperately need diplomacy in the area. I don´t agree with everything President Obama does or says, but I do respect him and think that he is doing a lot of very good things.

Could someone please comment on the fact that Obama has not been to a church, any church since he has been in office ? what about his little girls? shouldn't he be setting an example for them? Now that Mr Gingrich has spoken , I'm sure there will be a photo op at a church or something like it ,having to do with Easter weekend .

Sadly, college-professor Gingrich is incapable of distinguishing between "anti-religious" and "non-religious." The Constitution requires that our government be "non-religious" and since we now have such a government for the first time in 8 years, the Christo-facists are up in arms.

I find Obama to be a religious man, but religion has no place in government. For these people who have created so many problems with our society to belittle the Obama administration because they differ from them can only separate the masses.

Gingrich and the rest of the Bible thumping hypocrits should just stop talking, they had their run at leadership and did a very poor job.

Surely on a 25 person committee there is room for several different points of view.

Wow, heaven forbid a president actually understands the importance of having a separation of church and state as defined by the founders of our country. And Gingrich is full of it. He's not upset by a perceived anti-religion stance by this administration, he's upset by what he sees as an anti-Christian stance, because something tells me Gingrich wouldn't sleep any better if the administration was obviously spiritual in a Buddhist sense. The reason why Obama's administration is not overtly religious is because he understands that we cannot go down the same path as Iran or North Korea, totalitarian countries.

It's not anit-religious Newt, it's progressive. Majority of the country voted for it and if the GOP wants to get back in with the majority they better start being more open-minded!

I think Newt Gingrich's comments are rediculous. Isn't there suppossed to be a separation of church and state? You think being that since he was former speaker he would understand. Maybe that's why he's not there anymore.... With that said, the better informed a person is on all issues from all stand points would lead one to think they would have taken more stand points into consideration when making that decision. When one has a hard line stance and let's their religous views dictate decisions you end up with administrations like that of former President Bush and wars in Iraq when the real fight is somewhere else. Due to those decisions, that cost the US the lives of so many of it's milary service men and women. I think President Obama is making the right decision by trying to at least see the view points of so many so that he is informed of the issues and is aware of the possible outcomes of his decision before he makes them.

Just because you're FOR secularization, doesn't mean that you're ANTI-religion. A secular government is among the fundamental ideals of the founding documents of this country. Newt's comments do, however, reveal something very important. When he says that Obama wants a "secular America in which government dominates everything", he is acknowledging that the opposite is true now – religion is the dominant power in America. What the religious right wing wants everyone to believe is that a secular government is bad for religion, when in reality a secular government provides for greater tolerance of all religious views (which is not a convenient idea for fundamental Christianity ... which grows stronger when other religions are marginalized). A secular goverment is exactly what this country needs (as a first step in the right direction) – get religion back where it belongs – in homes and churches – and out of public policy.

Just keep talking until 2012, Gop will lose again. The Republicans are so negative, and out of touch with american people. Stop throwig out stupid statments!!! Gingrich just making noise because he want to be the next President.

Newt.....your out of touch and trying to stay relevant! America is changing whether you want it to or not! I have three teenage sons and their great kids! But they (kids) have their own opinions and view America from a different perspective....

As a person of non-christian faith, I welcome this change. It is in line with the 1st Amendment of the Constitution that was intended to create a wall of separation between Church and State.
I do not want my government legislating my faith, something the Neo-Conservatives have been bent on doing since they gained power in the Congress in the 80's.

Get a clue Newt; religion doesn't belong ANYWHERE in our government. The fact that we even have a faith-based initiatives department or effort in our government spells trouble to me.

When are people going to get it? The common laws we live by cannot enshrine religious doctrine or dogma (Christian or otherwise); our system must be based on laws that treat every person with equality of opportunity and justice. That's the only way a diverse population of truly "free" people can peacefully coexist.

If you want your religion in your house or your church, that's fine by me. But keep it out of our government.

Typical comment: "If it's not my way of practicing religion, its wrong"
Then people wonder why so many say things about evangelicals and ultra-conservative religious types.
A TRUE Christian knows Christ embraced everyone- not just those he agreed with.
if you quote the Bible, then live by its words.

As part of the 16% of Americans that identify as Atheist or Agnostic, I have no problem with this choice. I actually applaud this choice because I believe it is important to have a different perspective in every group. It helps breed new ideas and debate.

And to Gingrich, what is wrong with a secular administration? Isn't that what our government was created on? Freedom of/from religion is our very first right enumerated in the Bill of Rights. And don't forget that whole separation of Church and State idea either.

Right on, Mr. Gingrich. I suspect the same, that our new presidential administration is indeed VERY anti religious, not just "secular".

Finally an administration not influenced by religion. Imagine that! Haven't republicans learned anything?

Newt Gingrich should retire, if there is such a thing as a retired politician. When will these men (Republicans) grow up and say things that the American people would not consider childish and ridiculously stupid. Anti-religious is strapping a person to a chair and flipping the switch. Read your bible. You can't just adhere to the parts that support your agendas. We (the American People) are smarter than that. Don't talk to us like we are stupid.

Maybe Mr. Gingrich, the historian, should take a look at the religious views of the Founding Fathers, most specifically Thomas Jefferson. I don't see the connection between a secular policy and one in which "government dominates everything." It's a non-sequiter. Iran, anyone?

I am growing very tired of conservative religious groups as a whole. My biggest problem is that none of them can seem to keep their religious convictions out of the rest of our lives. Here in the states, they act as if they are more patriotic than the rest of us and it makes me sick.

If they truly were patriotic, they would understand the principle of separating church and state. Nobody can move past abortion or gay marriage because of these people.

Dear Christians, your god gave everyone us free will... now leave people alone !

"intensely secular" ... as it should be!

I thought goverment is supposed to be secular. Religion is a private matter and I do not want the goverment telling me what my morals should be.
We have enought with the Pope to direct us and guide us. The ultimate desicion is ours. We decide if we want to go to hell or heaven is not supposed to be imposed.
Thank you.

So what? Who cares if Obama is anti religious! Who cares if he is atheist! What matters is the economy and health care, not gay marriage. I'm tired of the religious trying to tell me how to live my life. get over yourself our country is full of people who don't believe in any of that. So lets focus on the things that matter to EVERYONE!

Finally an administration that understands the Constitutionally mandated separation of church and state. I'm surprised that Mr. Gingrich doesn't understand the meaning of the Constitution, or, even worse, chooses to ignore one of its most important elements.

secular groups don't drive people away but actually bring people together and it is ABOUT TIME!

A lot of people out there misuse the term "secular".

The terms "religious" and "ant-religious" are polar opposites. "Secular" means to be in the middle, or really more accurately, to be out of the religious discussion altogether.

But a lot of the pro-religious folk treat secular as being anti-religious, when it's not.

He is correct. Obama could care less about GOD. America is the great county it is because of GOD.

More Republican hysteria! They will say anything (and have) to try to gain the attention of the voters. And can't understand just why it isn't working. Its beginning to look and sound pitiful!

SIlly Obama Administration... trying to separate church and state. Where did they get that idea?

Who is Gingrich to speak of religion and morals and ethics?

This from a man who left his second wife while she was in the hospital with cancer so he could run off with his mistress who was to become his third wife.

Hypocrite! He's just trying to set himself up for a 2012 run, hoping that people have forgotten his past. Fat chance.

What does he know about religion; he sold his soul to the Wall Street Lobbyist which stripped us of all our regulations and got us into the mess we are in now. Newt is now Catholic, what a joke; a twice divorced Catholic. President Obama has been married only once. Guys like Newt and Rudy really should leave the moral arguments alone since they are the void of any morality in their personal lives.

How right you are. But what can you expect from our President, who told the world that America is not a Christian Nation? Please God,
let this President be a one term office holder.

Jesus will judge this country and our president USA is headed down the wrong road morally if we turn our back on god he will punish this country

Hey, Newt, the government is SUPPOSED to be secular! Have you completely forgotten basic history and your high school civics lessons?

Look at the mess we're in because of a bunch of right-wing neocon bible thumpers!

Why don't you just go ahead and form your third party already filled with religious zealots hell bent on fighting fire with fire?
Leave the Obama Administration alone if you have nothing good to say. We use our minds and rationaliity, not bigotry and irrationality.

Gingrich should read the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. I seem to remember there being something in there about the separation of church and state. The government SHOULD be secular.

What is Newt afraid of? "Oh no! The gays are being given a voice in a faith based group!" Give me a break. Because gays can't possibly have religious faith, right, Newt?

By the way Newt, how's your third wife doing? You know, the one you started courting before you even divorced your second wife, who you left your first wife for just as she was starting treatment for cancer? Right. Everyone whould hold you up as a moral authority on religious values.

Is this guy even relevant even more?
Republicans figured that no matter what they say about anything does not matter anymore, so they just try to keep throwing stuff in the media that does not even make sense.

So, what even if Newt was right, and it is secular administration. I think it is a great thing. Just think about how many people died and were tortured during the "most religious" administration of George W. Bush. Rings the bell? It is not what you preach, it is what you do.

Nobody cares about GOP's twisted interpretation of religion anymore Newt. Give it up.

Umm Newt? What happened to seperation of church and state? The government is SUPPOSED to be secular. Faith should have nothing to do with how a country is run, especially because not everyone in the country subscribes to the same faith or to any faith at all. Government must be run on fact and ethics not on whatever collection of stories they happen to believe in. All this proves is that Newt has no place in government and should go preach to the brainwashed masses from a pulpit somewhere

Why are we even discussing how religious a Presidential Administration in the United States of America is when our constitution clearly defines that there is to be a SEPERATION of church and state in this country?

In case you haven't noticed, Newt, but when a government tries to intertwine Religion and state, we have a very serious problem.

Do I need to bring up Saudi Arabia, Iran, and the Taliban?

I thought Mr. Gingrich was a scholar of American History. As such, I would have thought he knew that the Founding Fathers of this country envisioned the United States to have a secular government with freedom OF and/or FROM religion. I guess Gingrich prefers to cling to a religious ideology that was perpetuated by a bunch of ancient mysogynists who believed the Earth was flat and that the Sun revolved around Earth. His political ideology is about a relevant and current as his religious ideology.

I remember when America was at it's prime, when religion and morals were a basis for this country. Now we have people pushing for bigger gov't, giving handouts to the lazy and needy, and gays and lesbians berating the leader of the Catholic Church. The end of the glorious American Empire is be upon us sooner than we thing.

For too long the white evangelical right wingers have been the predominate voice in American politics. But as a group of people, Americans encompass much, much more than that perspective.

The separation of church and state concept was to have guided us since the birth of this nation.

Gingrich confuses "anti-religious" with "the freedom OF and FROM religion". His comments sound vaguely Islamic: "Infidels must be eliminated". Or as W put it: "If you're not with us, you're against us."

But Mr. Gingrich.....the far worse situation is advancement of right-wing, pro-religious zealots.

Getting religion (as opposed to faith) out of government is in the best interest of all. Religion does much more harm than good in how it drives wedges between people of faith.......it's one of the most destructive forces in human history.

Duh! Why does the religious right wing of the GOP insist on making religion so prominent in American politics?! Religion is fantastic and all religions should be respected. But keep religion out of the business of running this country. Like President Obama said while in Turkey, we are a nation that embraces all religions. So to the right-wingers: STOP TRYING TO SHOVE YOUR BELIEFS DOWN THE THROATS OF AMERICANS.

This man will spew any lie that pops into his head.

Perhaps Newt missed this but government is supposed to be neutral on the subject of religion. It's not as of yet; things are heavily slanted in favor of religion. His complaints seem to me to be about how the government is moving toward a more neutral and correct position towards religion.

How is being secular anti-religious? isn't there suppose to be a seperation of church and state? I would hope our government is striving to be secular

There is a large Democratic community that disagrees vehemently with President Obamas anti-religious actions.

So it's time to put our priorities in place and although we support and agree with President Obama on some issues it's time for all of us to stand up against President Obama and his administration when it comes to their anti-religious actions.

I'm sorry but this is just ridiculous. Since when does being 'religious' mean that you decide who is a good person and who is a bad person? As far as I can tell, the human rights campaign strives for the same things that most religious people want in this world: freedom of expression, equal rights for everyone, and tolerance towards others. Isn't that what the teachings of Jesus promoted in the New Testament? I don't think there is anything wrong with being secular, or being religious but tolerating others. It certainly is a welcome change from the previous administration and the views held by certain people that expose the notion that unless you are a religious fanatic then you must be immoral. Go see the movie Religulous Mr. Gingrich!

Wow, guess Newt never heard of he crazy concept of "separation of church and state."

Anything to bash Obama.

Nah, they're just OPEN MINDED and NON-RACIST.

"Anti-religion"......so, wouldn't that mean "guided by reason rather than supersition and myth". I don't know about you, but I welcome that!!

The good Book also says Judge lest yea be judged. I swear, you'd think they never got their shot at power. Now we have the leader and architect of the '94 Republican Revolution acting as if his party (and the programs they pushed for and stand for) are in some kind of perma-minority. Get over it, he's been Prez less than 3 months and he's doing what he said he was gonna do... and he got elected in a landslide saying it. Instead of saying what you don't like and saying 'no'... find something CONSTRUCTIVE to say and do and you MIGHT pick up some seats in 2010.

Please.. Government should be religious-neutral. That's the constitution. If you're a true religious person, there is no "human right", everything is under God.

So apparently being an activist for gay rights automatically makes you anti-religious. Why not just say what you really think Newt–that we're all atheists and unpatriotic.

Whatever happened to the concept of "separation of church and state?"

Hello, they are supposed to be anti-religious, it's called seperation of church and state.

Newt,
I hate to tell you this, but the Bill of Rights (you have read that haven't you) creates America as a Secular State. I am a religious as the next guy, probably more so (I am a Chaplain, and on track for Ordination in a Protestant Denomination), but I think that having a secular state which admires and lifts up all religious beliefs is a strong part of this great nation, and a banner which the world can lean upon.

Oh, and by the way,

Dick Cheney is "clearly Right" but I do not think that is what this counrty needs right now. We have had eight years of a Theocracy, it is time we had smart leaders.

It is sad that some people use the term "anti-religious" to refer to anyone who follows a different religious tradition - it is divisive and not in keeping with the Christian principle of loving your neighbor as yourself.

God does not care by what name we call Him or whether we view God as a Him or a Her. What matters is that we have a deepening relationship with the Divine that leads to compassion for ourselves and those with whom we share this Earth.

Maybe it's because this administration is sick of this country being run on fear and excluding people because they aren't white Republicans.

Seriously Republicans you have been out of power for only a few months yet you act like you have been oppressed for years.

The key word when reading comments by Newt Gingrich is that he is a "former" congressman. He is no longer a voice in politics, but is merely a "former" voice, and his words carry no weight, only an envious vitupritude toward the present administration.

Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich with all due respect " Just Shut Up and sit down"

For so many reason to list you have nobacking of your argument.

Just when I thought the GOP had reached the height of hypocracy. Out comes the much divorced, morally challenged Mr. Gingrich calling the current administration anti-religious. Why? Because the new moral authority thinks that fellow humans who happen to be gay should not have rights. By the way Newt, your hero Mr. Cheney has a gay daughter. Until Republicans have something intelligent to say, perhaps they could do us all a favor and say nothing!!!

Newt Gingrich is becoming more and more extreme every day that a Democrat is in charge of this country. I expect that somewhere around the time to elect a new president he will be in fatigues, walking around with an M16, screaming like a madman about commies or socialists or some such nonsense. The more successful the Democrats are the loonier he gets. If we aren't careful we may find Gingrich in a watchtower somewhere with a gun. He is almost beginning to sound not just like a conspiracy nut, but more like a schizophrenic.

These right wingers are screwing the republican party over by being totally illogical. A
Aren't church and state supposed to be separate?
Do these people see an Iranian theocracy as their ideal?

Neocons, get your head out of that "place where the sun don't shine"
and try to rub a few brain cells together to think an act in a logical manner.

Surely all persons should be respected in our country whether they are religious or not.

I read articles like this and am convinced the Republican party is much better critisizing their opponents than governing.

This country has major issues that have been ignored by the previous administration and as a result have gotten worse. This is no time for arm-chair quarterbacks to be sending smak from the cheap seats. Especially when they had their shot to demonstrate their policies and main street is going to be paying for their blunders for a while.

Until the Republicans find their voice (who is not a shock jock radio personality or a governor taking on an 18 yr old kid in the mass media), maybe they should consider giving this administration more than a 100 days before they start sending verbal harpoons at folks representing those who can't afford to take extravagently paid weekends at lush resorts.

Really, an administration that is secular rather than religious, heaven forbid. Seriously, isn't that the way it is suppose to be.

How is recognizing gays being anti-religion. I may not agree to their life-style, but as a christian I do have love for them. They deserve the rights to the American dream just like everyone else. Sometime we may not see eye to eye, but this does not give me or you the right to walk all over them. If Newt was a true God believer he would understand that, instead of passing judgement. This is why We need Change.

Secular and non-religious doesn't mean anti-religious. Right-wing christian fundamentalists continue to wage their holy wars in Washington... Give it up Newt. Americans are tired of your ilk.

This is RIDICULOUS!! Does Newt beleive that if you are gay you can't be religious. Why are these people so homophobic?? I don't get it. This is just like the Republicans rejection of same sex marriages. Close to 50% of marriages end up in divorce and YET they feel same sex marrages is a BIGGER threat to the institution. How does that make sense?? PLEASE...lets move on to more important issues.

The wave of secularism that has heralded this administration is alarmingly dangerous! While Obama tries to allow people express their freedom, we should not forget that human freedom should not be allowed to destroy the fundamental values of ethics and religion. The value of human life, the dignity of marriage and the life of the unborn child – should be protected! While Obama, because of his liberal mindedness, allows certain things to happen, which he himself does not practice, I would like him know that we are judged by God for both our actions and our passivity (in allowing bad things to happen)!

Newt, Newt, Newt! Your narrow definition of who has faith and who does not it very unrealistic. We are a very large and diverse nation with many valid viewpoints. Evangelicals are not the only relgious people in this nation, in fact they do not even come close to forming a majority. A 25 member pannel should be large enough to accomadate a wide range of viewpoints. This is the thinking that has marginalized the GOP .... I can have faith and be religious without confining myself to the judgementalism of the right wing evangelical crowd that controls the GOP.

I am a Christian, but religion has no place in government! So, Newt if someone holds a view different than yours that makes them anti-religious??? What? Why can't you have faith and be religious and still want equal protection and rights for all Americans? God must be crying at the right's representation of Him.

That's the way to bring people together? Make reckless twisted hateful statements in order to incite further violence against others. I'm a Christian and I don't agree with homosexuality, but I would never say something against gays/lesbians that would push them further away from the church or make them out to be outcast from society. Nor would I say that someone is anti-religious because they disagree with my ideology. Mr. Gingrich, If you can biblical prove where Obama is anti-religious, compared to your adulteress life-style, then by all means make your hate filled statements and turn your hate filled violent follower against groups who don't agree with you. How irresponsible!!!

I fail to see a problem here.

Let's look at this. Knox is a former Methodist pastor who worked for a non profit organization to help others, but Gingrich calls him anti religious. But Gingrich committed adultry and he's the poster child for conservatives? Nice. Is this really the best face for conservatives trying to recover from the Bush years?

Gingrich is trying to revive the culture war again...the strategy that the union of right-wing evangelicals and Republicans had so much success with in the early 80's. Too bad people don't care anymore, Newt. You're a political dinosaur. Give up.

Seeing that President Obama is having Passover at the Whitehouse, I hardly call that anti-religious. Once again, the Republicans come up short.

And as the news reported, this is a first for an American President to hold Passover in the Whitehouse.

Get a clue, Republicans. No one is buying your line of whooey. Either become part of the solution or you become part of the problem.

The Taliban is religious. Religion and spitituality or personal faith are two very different things. Religion is ugly and hateful. It is used for political advancement and to control small minded people like individuals of the religious right. Obama has faith in the Lord our God. Mr Gingrich is part of the GOPs problem.

I could not agree more!!!

I seem to recall something about "separation of church and state." I"m glad to have a secular administration, in which ALL Americans have an increased chance at equal rights, versus an administration which invades countries in search of WMD's, because "God" told him to.

Many, many Christians support gay rights, including marriage. God made us all the way we are, and He doesn't make mistakes.

Gay bashing never grows old for the GOP.

Good! I hope Newt is right. Religion has overstayed its welcome in this country's government, as it is.

That's good. There should be no mention or recognition of religion in politics and our government!

anti-religious? Isn't there supposed to be a separation of church and state?

Government supposed to be separate from religion you moron! Separation of church and state ... don't you people ever read in the South?

Since when is open-mindedness confused with being "anti-religion"?

Funny, I see this as a compliment

I guess Republicans can't understand the phrase "separation between Church and State"

People like Gingrich should be exiled...They think america is so much different then it really is. Gingrich, Limbaugh, Hannity, and O'Reilly are stuck in the 90s. Welcome to the 21st century folks. Its time to invest in sciene and follow a more secular path when it comes to governing. Religious belief should remain with the individual and should not be used in politics AT ALL...

Because the LGBT community isn't religous? Newt is frightening. Shame on Newt and anyone else that wants to cotinue to disavow people their rights. This is why Republicans will be the minority and lose more and more people in their party. DISGUSTING

From a straight, white supporter of EQUALITY FOR ALL American!s

I love it! Let's put all of these religious zelots in their place.

Why in the world do we care what this has-been thinks?

Newt Gingrich needs to go back to teaching history. His day has come and gone.

Get over the anti secular comments..... it is the religious fanatics that purport to be good christians that got this country in this mess. If any group or person is anti secular it is the Evangelicals with their narrow mind set instead of the Christ mind set.

I love seeing the Republicans going NUTS over gay marriage! I mean this is hilarious!! What does this tell you? If Republicans can't tell you what to do in your own bedroom they'll lose a talking point for getting nuts to the voting booth.

No Newt... he's not "Anti-Religious".. he's exactly the opposite.. he shows respect to all religions and bases his policies on common sense instead of the bible.

He is exactly what Christianity preaches.. he follows his beliefs himself and shows respect to others, rather than pushing his beliefs down other people's throats.

Just when you thought the GOP coundn't possibly become less relevant...

Newt is very much like Palin. He keeps making alarmist, outrageous statements to keep his name in the news. And a tidbit of news for you Newt. There is supposed to be separation of church and state in this country. The government should not be driven by religion, nor should it mandate any activities. Freedom of religion means that the government stays out of it.

Why not move to Alaska, Newt? You and Sarah, and the others who are a little vague on the way government is supposed to run can have a great time together.

Yes, the Obama administration is secular. It's called "separation of church and state" and it is so refreshing after eight years of religious zealots trying to codify their extremist beliefs.

A government founded on principles of separation of church and state pursuing secular policies? Oh the horror. Vocabulary lesson: Secular does not mean anti-religious.

Yet another example of the "my way or the highway" attitude of right-wing religious zealots.

this is undeniable. Obama wants to replace deferenc e to God with deference to the state.

Everyone in this country is entitled to the same rights as anyone else. People should be judged by their character, actions and abilities, not their race, religion, gender or sexual preference. This is in law and Newt should know better.

No Newt,

What he's doing is moving us back to the Center, away from the right-wing nut jobs that have dominated politics with their greedy, self-serving interests. Finally, someone in charge actually CARES about people, and I see it's driving all the "Christians" nuts.

Ironic indeed.

One of the main teachings in the Bible is....judge not, that you be not judged....guess Newt missed that part of the Bible!

Coming from Newt, this borders on hilarious; just more of the usal right wing nonsense – im a moderate conservative and even I find the remarks typically Gingrich.

The US is based on the separation of church and state. Please take the zealots out of my government. They can go to church on their own time

This is not a christian country. It's a country for all religions, and was specifically designed as such. Sorry of the authoritarians out there disagree, but many of us have no intention of believing your narrow interpretation of the bible.

Really? Ever hear of the US Constitution? Separation of Church and State? And what makes ol' Newtie say Obama is 'anti-religion'? Could it be because he's not of the same faith as Newt? Hmmmmmmm......I'm Jewish, and I think this whole argument is nuts.

Why would we put right-wing zealots in charge of anything, Newt? Don't know, but we do. Most of them are in Newt's party, so I guess if you aren't a right-wing religious fanatic, you are 'anti' religion. I suppose since I'm Jewish, he could accuse me of the same thing because I don't want the country to be led by anyone spouting FAKE Christian ideals.

What would Jesus do?

NOT THIS – NEWTIE

what ever happened to seperation of church and state? there should be no religion in politics!!!

It never ceases to amaze me what comes out of the GOP mouths. No wonder they are losing ground in politics. They are filled with hate.

I'm sorry, I thought the U.S. was a secular democracy. And "secular" and "anti-religious" are not the same thing. And, wow, I can see why Gingrich is upset with the Knox appointment - wouldn't want some who respects other people's rights in a position like that. How frightening!

Good. I hope Newt -d-frog is right.

I am tired of self-righteous believers in mythology pushing their snake oil on everybody.

Religion is fine in people's homes and in their churches. It does not belong on the floor of the Congress or in the White House.

Get over it. Darwin Won...

This from that well known upright christian man .. if you over look his adultery and divorces. Pah, what a hypocrite.

The Republican game plan:

call him a socialist (didn't work)
call him a facist ( didn't work)
just say NO to everything (didn't work)
say he's anti-religion (won't work)

I feel Rev. Wright coming...........

"...secular group of people who are consciously trying to drive things out."

You mean maintain and defend the separation of church and state from special interest groups full of fundamentalist zealots whose number one desire is to force a rewrite the US Constitution into the King James Constitution? How dare he!!!

Someone esle's religion doesn't have anything to do w/ the rights and responsibilities extended to me by my government. We have a separation of church and state in this country.....get over it!!

Crawl back under your rock, Newt. Haven't you seen Obama with his yarmulke, ready to host Passover seder in the White House? Or extending W's religious groups' aid programs, etc.?

Good! Religion causes more problems in this world than anything else; always has, always will. People should have the right to practice their faith, but it shouldn't impact government policy in the United States, which IS Newt, a secular government.

There is a huge difference between 'religion' and 'spirituality'. "Religion" is made up of the man-made rules and beurocracy that dilutes a person's 'spiritual' relationship with their God.

Obama is spot-on in his statement. Gingrich is just using some people's ignorance to try to sway them.

Way to go Obama way to show why you will not be president when your four years is up

secularism >>> conservative

What's wrong with being secular? This country was founded on secular beliefs.

Gay people are religious too, SURPRISE!

Wait so.... they don't bring their religion into governmental affairs? Just one thing to say to that: It's about time!!!!

Bring back Newt! It was Newt's congress that balanced the US budget NOT Clinton. He just signed off on public pressure!

I wish they were anti-religious! It's the year 2009 and billions of adults still believe in the equivalent of Santa Claus.

That sounds a lot like communism. No religion, complete government control.

I believe the framers of the US constitution intended for their government to be "intensely secular" and for their religious needs to be fullfilled by their churches and pastors, exactly because they wanted to avoid the European history of religious wars and state backed enforcement of one set of beliefs over another.

If Newt is right, then the Obama administration is probably the first one in many years to be true to that aspect of the US Constitution.

I would certainly like to know what Gingrich means by consciously trying to drive things out? He might be worried that fear factor politics my not work anymore and our country just might begin to catch up with the rest of the world.

Guess Newt hasn't caught wind of the First Seder.

Go get them Newt. Tell it like it is. For those of you who do not believe in the bible maybe its time that you pick it up and read it. Obama should never appoint someone with these credentials. God Bless America.

Government should be secular. There is more than one religion in the United States- although some don't acknowledge this fact.

Separation of Church and State is essential- a lesson learned in the Middle Ages.

American government needs to attain higher moral values or we will all fail. This is not a good 100 days for this adm.

Come On Newt

He's having passover at the Whitehouse and attended a church in Chicago for twenty years.

Why is there so much talk about religion and government? I thought this country was built on religious freedom and the government was not supposed to promote any particular religion over another. Doesn't that mean that the government SHOULD be secular?

Gingrich & his GOP followers exemplify in their philosophy the epitome of anti-religion, why is this loser given a platform??

NEWS FLASH!!!

Secular does not mean "anti-religious".

Newt is just trying to con the republican base into positioning him as the new Front Runner.

He's so obvious. Oh, and did you know, he recently converted to Roman Catholicism?

More hate language and fear mongering from the Conservatives. Pretty pathetic!

I agree that President Obama is anti-religious.

Matthew 7:15 (New International Version)
Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.

Newt and his generation are fading away. In the coming years, their generation will die away and these backward thinking neanderthals will be off the planet at last.

The GOP wants a culture war, because they have lost everything. They cant win on the ecomony or healthcare or any other issue America has rejected them over. They have no ideas and no plans...all they have is NO

When times get despearate, the GOP starts a culture war.
Sad

Iran has a religious government. Good for them.
-Frank Zappa

How come just because we are gay makes us not religous?

I'm not a Christian–in fact, I'm an atheist. Articles like this about the Republican-Christian alliance send chills down my spine. We are a pluralistic society, one best served by a secular government.

Good, the government should be anti-religious.

I only wish Obama were as anti-religious as all the right-wingers fear. There is a separation of church and state for a reason, and we should actively prevent those who would let their faiths interfere with public policy from serving in the government.

he is not anti-religious....but he recognizes that MANY religions make up this great country (not just one!) and he seperates religion from government (as our founding fathers did)...that's why many of us voted for him!

explain to me exactly how being gay and anti-religious are connected??? I'm gay and I believe in God.
I thought God loved us all???? What does that make you?

He's not anti-religious maybe anti-christian. For the first time the world had witnessed a President of USA bowing to the King of Saudi Arabia. That is EMBARASSING!

Anyone remember the phrase:

Separation of Church and State.

Why does the extreme right hate American values?

Live and let live!!! When will this debate be over?! Why is the happiness of other people such an issue for us???

This man is really insane and anti-american in every sense of the word....And so is Fox News!

Gingrich is irrelevant. He's the only one who hasn't gotten the word that no one gives a hoot about his opinions anymore. Over and out...exit stage left.

Yes – separation of church and state – read your history books, pal. Not everyone in this country is a Christian – or wants their stupid ideas ruling our lives.

way it's supposed to be separation of church and state...church shouldn't be dictating state as it has been last few years...glad it is finally going the way it was meant to be....

And Gingrich and the entire republican Party are Anti-American.