(ABC News) — A Tennessee congressman’s head of communications was under fire Saturday after scolding President Obama’s daughters Sasha and Malia on Facebook for how they behaved at the turkey pardoning ceremony.
Elizabeth Lauten, spokeswoman for Republican Rep. Stephen Fincher, took to Facebook after screenshots of Sasha and Malia Obama — who are 13 and 16 years old — looking bored at Wednesday’s turkey pardoning emerged online.
“Dear Sasha and Malia: I get you’re both in those awful teen years, but you’re a part of the First Family, try showing a little class. At least respect the part you play,” Lauten wrote on her Facebook page.
“Then again, your mother and father don’t respect their positions very much, or the nation for that matter,” Lauten wrote. “So I’m guessing you’re coming up a little short in the ‘good role model’ department.
“Stretch yourself,” Lauten told the Obama girls. “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.”
Lauten’s post went viral over the weekend, with screenshots shared on Facebook and Twitter.
She was immediately criticized across social media for her attack on the two girls.
She deleted her original post and wrote an apology on Facebook, which she sent to ABC News.
“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,” Lauten wrote. “I’d like to apologize to all of those who I have hurt and offended with my words, and I pledge to learn and grow (and I assure you I have)from this experience.”
Lauten declined to comment beyond her statement.
Fincher had not returned ABC News’ request for comment as of midday Saturday.
The White House has not commented on Lauten’s post.
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