Sasha and Malia Obama Dress Comments: Elizabeth Lauten resigns after controversial Facebook posts

WASHINGTON — Elizabeth Lauten, whose comments about Sasha and Malia Obama last week provoked backlash from both Democrats and Republicans, has resigned. Lauten was the communications director for Rep. Stephen Fincher of Tennessee, but after she slammed the President's daughters for their facial expressions and dress, a firestorm was ignited over Twitter, Facebook and other social media.

Elizabeth Lauten's tirade about Sasha and Malia Obama came after the President had the girls present at the White House Wednesday while he pardoned two turkeys, Mac and Cheese. Both of the teenagers didn't seem particularly interested, even declining to pet the birds.

Lauten slammed the 16-year-old and her 13-year-old sister, saying they should "try showing a little class."

"Your mother and father don't respect their positions very much, or the nation for the matter, so I'm guessing you're coming up a little short in the 'good role model' department," she wrote in a Facebook post. "Nevertheless, stretch yourself. Rise to the occasion. Act like being in the White House matters to you. Dress like you deserve respect, not a spot at the bar."

The rant invoked the ire of many on social media, who were quick to bring up the behavior of Jenna Bush, Bristol Palin and others. Twitter users made the hashtag #ElizabethLauten begin trending, while other users called for her firing.

Lauten apologized for her actions Friday.

"I quickly judged the two young ladies in a way that I would never have wanted to be judged myself as a teenager. After many hours of prayer, talking to my parents, and re-reading my words online I can see more clearly just how hurtful my words were," she wrote on Facebook.