New York, NY, October 16, 2007 ... The Anti-Defamation League (ADL), concerned about the growing insertion of religion into the presidential race, today called on all candidates to keep in mind that "there is a point at which an emphasis on religion in a political campaign becomes inappropriate."

"Appealing to voters along religious lines can be divisive, and contrary to the American ideal of including all Americans in the political process," said Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director.  "Voters should be encouraged to make their decisions based on their assessment of the qualifications, integrity and political positions of candidates."

Those remarks were part of an ADL letter sent to the Republican and Democratic candidates seeking their party's nomination for President: Senator Joseph Biden, Senator Hillary Clinton, Senator Christopher Dodd, Senator John Edwards, Senator Mike Gravel, Representative Dennis Kucinich, Senator Barack Obama, Governor Bill Richardson, Senator Sam Brownback, Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, Governor Mike Huckabee, Representative Duncan Hunter, Senator John McCain, Representative Ron Paul, Governor Mitt Romney, Representative Tom Tancredo and Senator Fred Thompson.

ADL's letter urged the candidates to bear in mind that, "anyone who legitimately aspires to the Presidency of the United States must be prepared to set an example and to be a leader for all Americans, of all faiths and no faith."  The League also sent each of the candidates its Frequently Asked Questions About Religion and Election Campaigns.

The League has traditionally sent similar letters to candidates during past campaigns.

A 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization, ADL neither supports nor opposes any candidate for political office.  ADL has been a longstanding advocate of separation of Church and State.

The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is the world's leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract hatred, prejudice and bigotry.