Category: Alfred E. Neuman

Pat Paulsen

On By scottpetersenIn Alfred E. Neuman, Pat PaulsenLeave a comment

[A repeat from October 21, 2020] Following my post on the candidacy of Alfred E. Neuman for President in 1956, a friend reminded me of another celebrity who ran for President of the United States — Pat Paulsen. Some of you, may scratch your heads “Pat Paulsen, Pat Paulsen” but this chap was a contender. From 1968 until 1996.

Patrick Layton Paulsen (1927-1997) was an American comedian who spent a lot of time on television. He was a regular on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and he even had his own short-lived show (13 weeks) in 1970. But Pat Paulsen is probably best remembered for his appearances on The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour which premiered in 1967. In 1968, Tom and Dick Smothers convinced Paulsen to run for President. And he did. While his candidacy was predicated on humor, he actually appeared on the ballot in New Hampshire on several occasions. When asked about his policies, he’d respond “picky, picky, picky.” And he got votes all over. Check out a few of his campaign slogans.

As I’ve always said – The future lies ahead

I am neither left wing nor right wing. I am middle of the bird.

In America, any boy can grow up to become President. Or if he never grows up, Vice President.

United we sit.

The number 1 cause of forest fires is trees.

Will I obliterate the national debt? Sure, why not?

It’s tough campaigning. Kissing hands and shaking babies.

A Paulsen-Neuman ticket? Coulda worked. . . . .

Alfred E. Neuman for President

On By scottpetersenIn Alfred E. Neuman, Mad MagazineLeave a comment

[A very appropriate election year repeat from April 16, 2016] As a kid, I was allowed to read “Walt Disney Comics & Stories” (Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck offerings).  Bugs Bunny and Woody Woodpecker comics were okay too.  But Mad Magazine was strictly verboten.   I think my parents were afraid I was going to emulate – and turn out like – Alfred E. Neuman — the poster boy for Mad.   It made me all the more desirous of sneaking copies home and hiding them under my bed in the small – locked – toolbox where I hid enough Black Cat firecrackers, M-80’s and cherry bombs to take out Tehran.  I found Mad Magazine (launched in 1952) hysterical!  Still do.  The satire is classic.   

Alfred E. Neuman made his Mad Magazine debut in 1956.  His famous motto?  “What me worry?”  That same year, there was a write in campaign to have Alfred E. Neuman elected President.  His campaign slogan was “You could do worse. . . . and always have.”  With the division on current Presidential choices, perhaps we should consider Alfred E. Neuman.  He’s younger. Maybe smarter.   And doesn’t have much baggage.

Alfred E. Neuman for President

On By scottpetersenIn Alfred E. Neuman, Mad Magazine1 Comment

As a kid, I was allowed to read “Walt Disney Comics & Stories” (the Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck offerings).  Bugs Bunny and Woody Woodpecker comics were okay too.  But Mad Magazine was strictly verboten.   I think my parents were afraid I was going to emulate – and turn out like – Alfred E. Neuman — the poster boy for Mad.   It made me all the more desirous of sneaking copies home and hiding them under my bed in the small – locked – toolbox where I hid enough Black Cat firecrackers, M-80’s and Cherry Bombs to take out Tehran.  I found Mad Magazine (launched in 1952) hysterical!  Still do.  The satire is classic.   

Alfred E. Neuman made his Mad Magazine debut in 1956.  His famous motto?  “What me worry?”  That same year, there was a write in campaign to have Alfred E. Neuman elected President.  His campaign slogan was “You could do worse. . . . and always have.”  With our current Presidential choices, I may just vote for Alfred E. Neuman.  He’s definitely smarter.   And doesn’t have the baggage.  Either that or I will vote for my dog Daisy.  Daisy is loyal, has integrity, doesn’t bite and is house trained.  It’s really a toss up.  Seriously. . . .