Overview
- The Washington Post highlighted official messages from multiple agencies and Cabinet officials that referenced Jesus and described them as overtly sectarian and a departure from prior secular holiday norms.
- White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson defended the posts, saying the administration is wishing people Merry Christmas and noting that many Christians celebrate the birth of their Savior.
- Administration allies and conservative commentators condemned the Post’s framing, with figures like Sebastian Gorka and FTC Commissioner Mark Meador criticizing the coverage on social media.
- The Christian Post reported that the Pentagon press secretary responded to a request for comment with a pointed holiday greeting that took a swipe at the Post.
- Newsbusters accused major outlets of inconsistency by noting The New York Times’ concern over these messages despite previously citing President Biden’s Easter statements that referenced Christ’s Resurrection, while civil-liberties advocate Rachel Laser called the posts divisive.