Ala. gov. apologizes for remarks on non-Christians

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama — Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley apologized Wednesday for his remarks about only Christians being his brothers and sisters.

Bentley said he didn't mean to insult anyone when he told a church crowd on Monday that those who have not accepted Jesus as their savior are not his brothers and sisters, shocking some critics who questioned whether he can be fair to non-Christians.

"Anybody here today who has not accepted Jesus Christ as their savior, I'm telling you, you're not my brother and you're not my sister, and I want to be your brother," Bentley said Monday, just moments into his new administration, according to The Birmingham News.

1. Top politics news
   1. White House defends IRS handling, McConnell asserts 'culture of intimidation'

      President Barack Obama's team emerged on Sunday to defend his handling of revelations that the IRS had targeted conservative groups for scrutiny, as senior Republicans conceded they lacked evidence — so far — that the president directed the abuses.

   2. Ax hovers over food stamp program as costs grow
   3. Capping week of scandal management, Obama says focus remains on jobs
   4. 2016 notebook: Republicans try to dent Clinton's armor?
   5. Issa issues subpoena to Benghazi review board leader
   6. IRS officials testify at House hearing
   7. Michelle Obama urges grads to be 'an example of excellence'
   8. IRS official in charge of scrutinizing political groups now heads agency's role in 'Obamacare'
2. More politics
   1. Obama's 2nd year
      

      AP
   2. Political Cartoons
   3. 
      BLTWY: Political news, photos and gossip

The Anti-Defamation League on Tuesday called Bentley's remarks shocking.

"His comments are not only offensive, but also raise serious questions as to whether non-Christians can expect to receive equal treatment during his tenure as governor," said Bill Nigut, the ADL's regional director.

Bentley apologized on Wednesday, however, saying no one should hate anyone else because of color or religion. Bentley spoke with reporters after meeting with several members of Alabama's Jewish community and other faith leaders at his Capitol office.

The Southern Baptist deacon says he will be a governor for everyone, not just Christians.