Focus defends Dobson's skepticism of Fred Thompson's Christian faith

Focus defends Dobson's skepticism of Fred Thompson's Christian faith

Focus on the Family founder Dr. James Dobson is attempting to clarify remarks he made to a reporter regarding possible Republican presidential candidate Fred Thompson.

Dobson recently told Dan Gilgoff of U.S. News & World Report he did not think former Tennessee Senator Fred Thompson was a Christian. "Everyone knows he's conservative and has come out strongly for the things that the pro-family movement stands for," Dobson said in the interview. "[But] I don't think he's a Christian -- at least that's my impression."

A Thompson spokesman took umbrage with Dobson's statement and responded by saying, "Thompson is indeed a Christian. He was baptized into the Church of Christ."

Focus on the Family spokesman Gary Schneeberger said Dobson "use the word 'Christian' to refer to people who are evangelical Christians," and was not expressing a personal opinion about his reaction to a Thompson candidacy.

In addition, Focus on the Family Action has issued a statement saying, "Dr. Dobson was attempting to highlight that Senator Thompson hasn't clearly communicated his religious faith, and many evangelical Christians might find this a barrier to supporting him." The statement goes on to say that Focus was "pleased to learn from his spokesperson that Senator Thompson professes to be a believer."

Dr. Dobson has yet to endorse anyone for president, but did tell U.S. News & World Report that former House Speaker Newt Gingrich was the "brightest guy out there" and "the most articulate politician on the scene today."