The Obama Nation?
21 June 2008 10:52 am by Scott Hopkins
Guest post by Scan
AP photo
What is it about this new logo that creeps me out?
Presumptive Democratic nominee Barack Obama sat down in Chicago Friday morning to discuss the economy with visiting Democratic governors, but all eyes were on the Illinois senator’s podium bearing, what might be described as, a quasi-presidential seal – a new Obama campaign logo. The seal includes the same bald eagle as the actual presidential seal clutching an olive branch and arrows in its talons, but instead of a shield covering the center of the eagle’s body, the Obama version displays the campaign’s trademark “O.” Unlike the Presidential seal, which includes the words “Seal of the President of the United States” around the circumference, “Obama for America” and “www.barackobama.com” grace the top and bottom of Obama’s.
Also, just above the eagle reads “vero possumus”, which translates to “yes we can” in Latin.
Ask yourself: If Hillary had won the nomination and created her own quasi-presidential logo with a big “H” on the eagle’s chest, “ready on day one” in Latin, and her website URL at the bottom…what would your reaction be?
Exactly, which is why such a thing is silly. I’m sure there are all sorts of logo ideas thrown back and forth, with most of them rejected. What’s revealing is that Obama approved of this and proudly stands above it behind the podium. Beyond the sheer goofy factor, which opens it up to all kinds of parody, it simply sends the wrong message: That the position is presumed to be his already, and that if he is elected, it will be all about him and not about the American people. Or maybe even that it’s starting to go to his head.
The McCain camp didn’t hold back, and for once, I’m sympathetic to their viewpoint:
Snarked John McCain spokesman Tucker Bounds, “I think we can all agree that we need presidential candidates that are serious enough not to play make-believe on the campaign trail.” “It’s laughable, ridiculous, preposterous and revealing all at the same time,” Bounds said.
Oh, and some are even wondering if it’s actually illegal.
I’m sure the staffer who came up with it thought it was “totally rad” but I would suggest it be retired early. If Obama is lucky enough to win, the real presidential seal should be enough once that bridge is crossed.
I would hope.
