GOP aide steps down over Obama daughters comments

WASHINGTON, Dec. 1 (UPI) -- A GOP congressional staffer resigned Monday after criticizing President Obama's daughters on Facebook over their clothing and bored facial expressions at the annual turkey pardoning last week.

Elizabeth Lauten stepped down from her role as communications director for Rep. Stephen Fincher, R-Tenn., after she garnered deep criticism for her comments, confirming her decision to the Washington Post and NBC News.

Lauten wrote Malia and Sasha Obama looked like they were dressed for "a spot at the bar" during the annual White House turkey pardoning, a lighthearted event in which the president grants a reprieve to one lucky bird ahead of Thanksgiving.

"I get that you're both in those awful teen years, but you're a part of the First Family, try showing a little class," Lauten wrote, in a post that quickly went viral after screenshots were published on Gawker.

"At least respect the part you play. Then again your mother and father don't respect their positions very much, or the nation for that matter, so I'm guessing you're coming up a little short in the "good role model" department. Nevertheless, stretch yourself. 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. And certainly don't make faces during televised, public events."

While several outlets poked fun at the teen girls' obvious boredom at the event and embarrassment at their dad's cheesy jokes, Lauten was accused of cyberbullying and turning them into political targets.

Lauten apologized on Friday, again writing on Facebook:

"I reacted to an article and I quickly judged the two young ladies in a way that I would never have wanted to be judged myself as a teenager. 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. Please know, those judgmental feelings truly have no place in my heart. Furthermore, 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."