the buzz log
Laughs at the National Prayer Breakfast
Democrats and Republicans don't agree on much these days. But folks from both sides of the aisle were able to share a few laughs at this morning's National Prayer Breakfast.
Republican Sen. Orrin Hatch from Utah stood up to lead the assembled leaders in a prayer. To his side sat the big guy, President Barack Obama. This was no time to mess up. Unfortunately, Sen. Hatch forgot to turn off his cell phone. Just as he stood at the podium, his phone's alarm began to ring. D'oh!
Sen. Hatch, a good sport, laughed sheepishly and said, "Whoops, oh dear." He then did his best to shut up the noisy gadget. As onlookers chuckled to themselves (hey, we've all been there), Sen. Hatch said, "I never learned how to turn that alarm off. I apologize. Let us pray." Cue more laughter.
Some more chuckles came when President Obama worked in a jab against the birther movement. Birthers, for those who don't know, are those who believe that Obama wasn't born in the United States. The conspiracy theory has long sparked controversy. Critics have worked to disprove it, while believers continue to make the claim. Mr. Obama, clearly aware of the issue, remarked that civility is "not a sign of weakness" and that he's "the first to confess" that he's not always right.
But, the president continued, "Surely you can question my policies without questioning my faith...or, for that matter, my citizenship." There was a bit of a pause before the sympathizers in the crowd picked up the dig. Appreciative laughter and buzz in the blogosphere ensued. You can watch the clip below.