The Republican presidential hopefuls were at a forum sponsored by The Family Leader in Des Moines yesterday, and as this report from NPR shows, it was a Christian red meat event:
The moderator, political consultant and pollster Frank Luntz, started the discussion by asking the six candidates to think about the oath of office.
"At the end of that oath are the words, 'So help me God.' When you hear those four words, if you have the privilege to say them, what will come to mind?" he asked.
Texas Gov. Rick Perry's answer was one of several Saturday that appeared deeply emotional for those on stage.
"'So help me God' is almost a plea. It's not part of an oath," Perry said. "I look at it as a plea. I've been driven to my knees multiple times as the governor of the state of Texas, making decisions that are life and death, that have huge impacts on people's lives."
Except that the phrase "so help me God" is not part of the presidential Oath, which is spelled out in the Constitution (Article. II. Section. 1.):
Before he enter on the Execution of his Office, he shall take the following Oath or Affirmation:--"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States."
Only Republicans could fabricate a phrase in order to demonstrate their obeisance to faith.