Bush on Presidency: “Christians Only.”

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From Drudge:

President Bush said yesterday that he doesn't "see how you can be president without a relationship with the Lord," but that he is always mindful to protect the right of others to worship or not worship.

Mr. Bush told editors and reporters of The Washington Times yesterday in an interview in the Oval Office that many in the public misunderstand the role of faith in his life and his view of the proper relationship between religion and the government.

"I think people attack me because they are fearful that I will then say that you're not equally as patriotic if you're not a religious person," Mr. Bush said. "I've never said that. I've never acted like that.

"I think that's just the way it is."

See, here's the thing: "In God We Trust" is a statement of American resolve. I'm OK with that.

But "In Jesus We Trust?" Not so much, and here's why: "E Pluribus Unum" is our national ideal -- "Out of many, one." The United States was founded on the ideal that a pluralistic society can offer hope, freedom and liberty to anyone, regardless of religious belief (or non-belief).

So, for President Bush to say that "In Jesus We Trust" is the way it is, well, it's wrong. Just say, "It's what I believe" and leave it at that.

But, sadly, no. He can't bring himself to say that. So he's isolated himself from the American ideal.

And in so doing, he's the lesser for it.