Until I saw Senator Obama’s personalized seal referenced at Neo-Neocon, I was unaware that the impact of the Heck Of A Guy Do It Yourself Vanity Seal Program1 had extended beyond the borders of McHenry County to influence the contest for the nation’s highest post.
Sen. Obama at Democratic Governors Meeting 6/20/08 (Photo by Alex Brandon)
Alas, from the news stories, it appears that Sen. Obama’s design did not meet with universal approval.
For example, there is this comment from McCain spokesman Tucker Bounds:
Even partially discounting Mr. Bounds’ criticism as a campaign tactic2 and as an invocation of sour grapes because McCain doesn’t have his own personal presidential seal, it is clear from similar responses and the semi-apologetic explanations from Obama’s staff that the Democratic contender’s current design, too derivative by half, is a flop.3
These results are do serve as a timely reminder of the danger of leaving seal design to the politicians.
On an editorial note, I will point out that the accusations of hubris which were also directed toward Obama could have been thwarted by wiser seal selection.
OK, there might have been some puzzled looks, but attributions of arrogance? Not a problem.
- See also How To Create An Official Seal – Part 1: The Mechanics and How To Create An Official Seal – Part 2: Credentials [↩]
- Mr. Bounds’ authenticity would have been enhanced had he not claimed that the seal ostensibly indicated that Obama lacked seriousness. Does anyone who has heard more than three minutes of an Obama speech really think the problem is that he isn’t serious enough? Barack is not, as far as I can determine, a big yuks, do anything for a laugh sort of guy. Heck, he doesn’t even seem to meet criteria for a “I can appreciate a humorous anecdote” kind of guy. He seems, in fact, to take himself and his campaign incredibly seriously. Compared to Obama, John Calvin would have been quite the funny fellow. [↩]
- I do, as it turns out, have a slot open on my seal designing schedule should the Senator want to take another shot at something a tad spiffier. [↩]
No Comments so far ↓
Like gas stations in rural Texas after 10 pm, comments are closed.