Revenge of the political Nerd

He could be more awkward. But it would take tube socks, a pocket protector, and a laugh with a clear and distinct snort. Instead, he's just Doug Hoffman, an accountant, small business owner, conservative in the New York-23 Congressional race, and a man who might be the game changer for the elections of 2010.

Sick of liberals taking over the blue and red ballot selections, Hoffman, in a quiet and polite manner, entered the race as the conservative alternative not realizing he would be the virus in the political machine.
His popularity pushed Dede Scozzafava, a liberal Republican with a name like a punch line, out of the race. Instead of backing Hoffman, she did what conservatives will be thanking her over for years: she backed the Democrat. And thus a new storyline begins: the naked expose' of RINOs (Republicans In Name Only).

Hoffman's uncomfortable on television, a dry speaker, a bland interview, and a man as real as any working class American. Darn it if he isn't a likable little guy. He couldn't contrast Obama more in mannerisms and style, yet he's adored. It's apparently no longer cool to be cool.



His awkwardness and flat speech have been the accelerant behind the firestorm of his campaign. Supporters love the lack of an image consultant to perfectly gray his hair, a teleprompter to perfectly outline his message, and a media to perfectly spin his missteps. Throw out the Parkay. They want real butter.

“People look at Obama and they see how a slick politician can turn on them,” said Sandy Caligoire, a Hoffman spokesman. “Doug’s a regular guy. He’s gotten better as the campaign’s gone on, but he’s a regular guy, and I think that appeals to people.”

There are places to avoid fads, like in your home remodeling, your plastic surgery decisions, and your President. Obama is like that fuzzy sweater I purchased years ago with yarn dreadlocks around the collar and sleeves. The first year everyone loved it. The second year no one said anything. Now I'm stuck with it out of a need for warmth and must suffer the mockery.

Hoffman, bring it home for all us conservative nerds. I can't afford to buy another sweater.