Obama Angers Conservatives For Lack of Patriotism

Washington, DC (AHN) - Presidential hopeful Barrack Obama's patriotism is being questioned by Conservatives for his refusal to wear an American flag lapel pin. Obama is also criticized for the photo of him without his hand on his heart during the National Anthem.

Obama's wife, Michelle, also angered conservatives, and others, with her offhand comment on patriotism during a campaign stop in Milwaukee.

"For the first time in my adult lifetime, I am really proud of my country. And not just because Barack has done well, but because I think people are hungry for change. And I have been desperate to see our country moving in that direction," Michelle Obama said.

Conservatives consultants say that the patriotism issue could pose great threats to Obama's national campaign if he wins the nominations, especially because opponent John McCain is a Vietnam War hero.

Republican consultant Roger Stone told the Associated Press, "The reason it hasn't been an issue so far is that we're still in the microcosm of the Democratic primary. Many Americans will find the three things offensive. Barack Obama is out of the McGovern wing of the party, and he is part of the blame America first crowd."

Political analysts added that during the 2004 elections, patriotism has been a critical issue with John Kerry's campaign. Kerry lost the presidential race after critics questioned his Vietnam War record.

Obama is a practicing Christian, but he had a Muslim father from Kenya and a Muslim stepfather when he lived as a child in Indonesia, and he has also been accused of being a Muslim intent on destroying America.

However, Obama has denied all allegations. "Whenever I'm in the United States Senate, I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America. I've been going to the same church for 20 years, praising Jesus," Obama said in his campaign speech.

Attacks on Obama are expected to increase if he wins the Democratic nomination, according to reports.

Political observers have noted that attacks on Sen. John Kerry's military record in Vietnam helped derail his bid for the presidency when he was the 2004 Democratic candidate.