Atheism is still a taboo for American politicians

[the artist formerly known as catmusic]

"Atheist" is a dirty word. It's how I describe myself, rather defiantly, because I don't like that people think it's somehow more aggressive than just saying you aren't religious. People get uncomfortable with the term because it makes them think of edgelords with beards in a basement laughing at anyone who believes in god. Personally I think it's important to use the word in self-description, when it actually fits your belief system. But that's just me; ultimately people can describe themselves however they wish. If I remember correctly there was a study that showed "Atheist" was one of very few types of people where a near-majority said they wouldn't vote for a candidate who was that thing, much higher than the percentage for simply "non-religious" or "doesn't believe in god"