Thanksgiving Day 2015: Republican, Democratic Presidential Candidates' Honor Thanksgiving
It’s Thanksgiving Day, and politicians and national organizations are taking the moment to acknowledge their “thanks” or advance a political message.
Republican Party:
With Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, surging to second place in Iowa, based on a Quinnipiac University poll, there will be an intensified focus on the conservative politician. On his campaign website, Cruz wrote a lengthy observance of Thanksgiving. Cruz, the son of a Cuban immigrant, is celebrating "the blessings the Lord has bestowed upon us and this great nation." Acknowledging the many uncertainties ranging from terror threats and the economy, Cruz emphasized on religion and the need to thank God.
"We are grateful for all those who have gone before us and for those who continue to serve: for the soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines who courageously defend our freedom. For the police officers, firefighters, and first responders who protect our communities. And for the pastors, teachers, and parents who guide us to know the truth, and be set free by it," wrote Cruz, recognizing the sacrifices that have occurred in the U.S. since the first Thanksgiving dinner in 1621, to the American Revolution, slavery and the two World Wars.
Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., went on Twitter to commemorate Thanksgiving. NBC's "Today" also featured the son of Cuban immigrants on Thursday morning.
Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush also tweeted his thanks, including for the U.S. troops. -- both in the mainland and overseas.
Republican front-runner Donald Trump tweeted his Thanksgiving message, with a reminder of his campaign slogan: "Make America Great Again."
Republican National Committee (RNC) Chairman Reince Priebus and Co-Chairman Sharon Day released a joint statement also wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving, a time that provides reflection on the many blessings affecting families and the U.S.
"During this time of the year, we think especially of the men and women in uniform," said Priebus. "We are grateful for the many sacrifices, including being away from their own families. Our prayers are also with Americans who are in hard times. As we give thanks, let us remember their needs and help meet them."
Day said, "The Pilgrims had much to be thankful for at the first Thanksgiving. It is our hope that we will continue to honor that tradition by pressing pause on the hectic pace of life and spending time with those who are closest to us. It is my hope that you have a warm and joyful Thanksgiving, and that God bless all of us."
Democratic Party:
Democratic presidential front-runner Hillary Clinton tweeted, "So much to be thankful for. Wishing a happy Thanksgiving to you and yours," with an old photo attachment of herself, former President Bill Clinton and daughter Chelsea.
Clinton's campaign also tweeted that they are thankful of fellow campaign supports, and included a link to attract further people to join the campaign.
Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., acknowledged that not all families have the opportunity to gather with their loved ones. Sanders tweeted his immigration reform plan. As Latin Post reported, Sanders supports comprehensive immigration reform with a pathway to citizenship, the end to private family detention centers and is open to expanding executive action to grant deferred action to nine million eligible undocumented immigrants -- but only if congressional gridlock on the issue continues.
Former Gov. Martin O'Malley kept a straightforward approach with his Thanksgiving message, writing on Twitter, "Wishing all a very Happy Thanksgiving."
In a statement, Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz provided her thanks to all Americans, including President Barack Obama, who, "brought us back from the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression, giving us much to appreciate after so many families lost jobs, homes, and a sense of confidence just a few short years ago."
Wasserman Schultz added, "On a day in which we celebrate a remarkable voyage by pilgrims seeking religious freedom and the helping hand they found on our shores, I can't help but be reminded that we're a better people and a better nation when we come together and strive to lift others up. That's what the Democratic Party stands for -- creating more opportunity for people - and we are inspired to work toward this goal each and every day, especially at the holidays."
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