Letters to the President #1359: 'Watch the birdie'

Reporter's Note: Each day I write to President Obama.

Dear Mr. President,

Mitt Romney seems to have had just about enough of your cracks about Big Bird. Ever since the debate, it seems like the Internet has been on fire with your supporters carrying on about how the GOP challenger wants to cut funding for public television. But today, as I am sure you noticed, the Republicans started turning that around on you; saying things along the lines of, “perhaps the President ought to stop worrying about a big yellow bird puppet, and start talking about jobs, and people who are struggling, and his plans for the economy.” Something like that.

As you know, I’m not here to pick sides. However, I think you might want to be a little careful at this point. I realize you’ve been savaged over your debate performance, and you may not feel like there is much for you to say about it other than smacking away at the Big Bird moment, but as funny as it may be, jokes like that have a way of growing old. Especially with middle voters…those who aren’t automatically in your camp. If they get it in their minds that you are in fact trying to avoid more serious talk by ridiculing your opponent too much over a small moment, that really could start working against you.

Maybe it already is. I assume you’ve seen the latest polls? Yes, yes, yes, I realize that many of your Democratic friends are furious…saying that we media people are making far too much of the face that Mr. Romney, for the first time in what seems like ages, is either tied with or (gasp!) leading you in a couple of polls. I understand their anger, but to be honest, it is news when someone who has been perpetually in second place shows any legitimate sign that he could move into first.

I love jokes. I usually find it easier to crack wise about things than work on honest solutions. But I’m not running for President. You are. So like I said, you may want to reconsider chasing after Big Bird. Maybe it’s a great strategy…but it could also be a quick trip to having your goose cooked.

Call if you can.

Regards,
Tom