While I abhor the cynical use of religion by politicians, and appreciate that the perspective of the New York press is based on their media/politics bubble, I work with and represent people of faith who will find this perspective questionable. I mean, I've got the hide of a rhinoceros, spiritually speaking, and this bothered even me some.
Also, I heard a new term this evening: "Prayer Shaming". That is, shaming someone for praying in reaction to unimaginable events. Even Sen. Chris Murphy and Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty got in on it today through their Twitter accounts.