Posted by
Gary Garfunkel on Wednesday, February 27, 2008 9:48:42 PM
Is Barack all talk? That's for you to decide. Meanwhile, let's examine the credibility of some of the reasons given for why Obama should be President of the United States by pitting him against the Phillie Phanatic! We'll explore how they match up on issues that are often cited in support of Obama:
CHANGE
Obama would be the first black president; the Phillie Phanatic the first green president. Blacks have advanced far further in recent years than Greens to the point where today's youth have few qualms about an African-American president. However, our generation has been raised on Kermit the Frog telling us "it's not easy being green." The emergence of the Phillie Phanatic as a Presidential candidate would eliminate Ralph Nader from all future elections, as Phanatic supporters would take offense to the name of the Green Party.
Advantage: Phanatic
ABILITY TO INSPIRE
At the time of this post, 1,008,451 people have contributed to Obama's campaign, per his campaign website. According to baseball-almanac.com, 3,108,331 people bought Phillies tickets last season.
Advantage: Phanatic
ORATORY SKILLS
The Phillie Phanatic lacks the ability to speak.
Advantage: Obama
ABILITY TO UNITE THE COUNTRY
Both are especially liberal: Obama was recently rated the most liberal Senator, and the Phillie Phanatic is certainly liberal in appearance. The Phanatic, however, has spent years in the city where our country was founded and has literally "reached across the aisle" to fans who wish to shake his hand. Nonetheless, the Phanatic is a National League mascot and is sure to offend voters in American League cities who support the designated hitter rule.
Advantage: Obama
FINAL TALLY: OBAMA 2, PHANATIC 2
It's a draw! I need your help. Who is the more viable Presidential candidate, according to Obama's strengths? Barack Obama or the Phillie Phanatic?