One of the foundations of this country is freedom of religion. One thing that really irks me right now: Why at the end of all speeches, debates, TV ads, etc., do each of the candidates conclude with “God bless you”? Has this phrase now become a cliche, like saying “How are you?” when we don’t really want to know the details?

If both candidates really and truly want God to bless them and the U.S., they should focus on the foundation our forefathers fought to give us. Help American poor and homeless regain their self-esteem and beliefs again. Stop trying to lean on themselves alone as candidates and the thinking that all can be accomplished solely through their own efforts, without God’s blessing. Stop using “God bless America” as just a phrase to hide behind.

If they really want God to bless America, then put back into the view of every American what our forefathers were not ashamed to do.

They want God to bless America? Then they should stop trying to find loopholes with God. Believe in marriage the way it was intended to be.

Leaders must put away their finger-pointing and bring forth values and morals for all to see. I want to see them, and perhaps many other countries and allies as well. Perhaps then, when they say “God bless America,” God will.

Our veterans and military count on us to support them in their efforts to preserve this freedom, too.

Diana Warden, Lewiston