WASHINGTON – A top aide to Tennessee Congressman Stephen Fincher plans to resign today after facing a barrage of criticism for a Facebook post about President Barack Obama’s daughters, according to a published report.
Elizabeth Lauten, Fincher’s communications director, told NBC News by phone today that her resignation is already “in the works.”
Lauten touched off a firestorm on social media with her Facebook post about the president’s daughters’ appearance last week at their father’s traditional pardoning of two Thanksgiving turkeys.
“Dear Sasha and Malia,” Lauten wrote, “I get you’re both in those awful teen years, but you’re part of the First Family, try showing a little class. At least respect the part you play. Then again your mother and father don’t respect their positions very much, or the nation for that matter, so I’m guessing you’re coming up a little short in the ‘good role model’ department. Nevertheless, stretch yourself. Rise to the occasion. Act like being in the White House matters to you. Dress like you deserve respect, not a spot at a bar. And certainly don’t make faces during televised, public events.”
The post circulated widely on Twitter and was a topic on sites such as The Root, Gawker and Vibe. It also was picked up by traditional news outlets, including The Washington Post.
Lauten later removed the post and issued an apology, saying, “After many hours of prayer, talking to my parents, and re-reading my words online I can see more clearly just how hurtful my words were. Please know, those judgmental feelings truly have no place in my heart.”
Neither Lauten nor Fincher nor anyone else in the congressman’s office immediately responded to the report that Lauten intends to resign.
