Why is religion so important to the press in politics?

Juice: Why is religion so important to the press in politics?
I can’t help but notice that no matter who is running for what election, religion is always an issue. Why is it that a candidate’s religion always comes under fire by the press, specifically in presidential races?

Answers and Views:

Answer by Modus Operandi
Certain groups in the electorate really care about their religion and is sometimes a deciding factor for them.

Answer by michelob86
Because Americans, in general, think it’s important. You think an atheist would get elected? People tend to base their opinion on it. That’s why they track candidate’s religion.

Answer by Poohcat1
Because many of the people of this country still believe that a man’s religious connection indicates what kind of person he is. Probably not true anymore. The Constitution assumed that people would remain “Under God” To bad that idea failed. We are not the better for it being gone.

Answer by eir
i don’t think it’s that important, per se. it’s just another one of those things that is easily used to put doubt/fear/anger in people and throws just another cloud over really important issues.

Answer by SILHOUETTE
the global goal for the worl to erase from the memory that God or devil exist.

Answer by Ron S
Religion is man made and reflects on believe and practice. Those that don’t have a religious preference have no character standards to measure against or at least lie about.

Answer by Melinda C
Because religion is tied to every aspect of life. Wars are fought for religion. Just tell that to the men and women serving in Iraq. The Republicans stand up for American Christian values while Democrats don’t. Republicans are pro-life. Democrats are pro-choice. Define what is a baby? That is determined by the God. If God didn’t create an embryo than how is a human formed? Everything is about religion. Why were we attacked on Sept 11? Because the terrorists hates Americans. Why? Because we protect the Jews in Israel. Religion is everywhere! You just have to be educated on the historical significance of events.

Answer by Sybar
i dont know…
it scares the crap out of me thinking that the next Vp might take the bible litteraly (palin)… i like mcain and i like obama.. but im scared if palin becomes president what will happen( maybe if she had taught her daughter about the birds and the bees she wouldnt be a teenage preggo) but anyways hopefuly she changed her mind on the no sex education to middle schoolers…

i dont think religion should have anything to do with politics..
a man going off pure logic and insight has a better plan for running this country than a man who putts all faith in god.. -sorry christians