Liberal activists and pundits are making a big mistake. They are going after Christine O'Donnell and Sarah Palin about their religious beliefs especially in matters related to sexual behavior. They are incredulous that anyone could consider abstinence a viable option for adults. They convulse with laughter that anyone could consider masturbation sinful or, as O'Donnell expanded the concept, equivalent to adultery.
Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton all knew and all reminded their supporters on a regular basis that when it comes to people's spiritual beliefs, respect is the only option. Christian people will rise up to defend O'Donnell and Palin if they believe they are under attack for their faith. Mark Ensign, David Vitter and Mark Sanford all got away with outrageous behavior by referencing their faith and the faithful bought it.
Doesn't matter if the unbelievers can't see it, don't buy it, even find it distasteful. In this culture, ridicule of religious faith is bad politics.
Cross posted.