Divided by more than an ocean

[tinyjo]

So Californians have elected Arnie to run their state. Good luck to them. The report on the radio left me with the impression that his qualifications for this are slim to none but the fact that people liked the Terminator films means they're happy to vote for him.* Like the difference in our reactions to David Blaine, this illustrates the very different ways we view our celebrities over here. Can you imagine the mockery and derision if David Beckham stood as an MP? Americans seem to revere their celebrities. Here, we're all too aware of their shortcomings.

* I'm happy to be corrected on this point.

Comments

[shepline.livejournal.com]

At least this particular actor can't become president.

I think what probably really lies at the heart of his election victory is that there were 100+ candidates. With that many it doesn't so much as split the vote as confuse the electorate. How can you make a decision with that many candidates? So they all plumped for the guy they knew and wasn't the current encumbant. Or is this over-simplistic?

[soulsong.livejournal.com]

Maybe they'll change the rules for him? He's been a citizen for what, 20 years? I'm sure they can change whatever rule says non-natives can't run for pres! Especially if at some point he's their only chance of keeping out a democrat ;)

[sparkymark.livejournal.com]

There's a Republican backed motion going through the houses at the moment to change that rule.

[soulsong.livejournal.com]

uncanny ;)

[celestialweasel.livejournal.com]

This would require a constitutional amendment (Article 2, Section 1, Clause 5). This needs to be passed by a 2/3 majority in both houses, and ratified by 3/4 of the states (Article 5).
The constitution

Press

[sparkymark.livejournal.com]

Here