Most of you have probably already seen this. But I had to post it anyway. It’s Herman Cain’s first real TV spot, and it’s…bizarre.
I can’t decide if I love it or hate it. If I decide to love it, it won’t because of the ad itself, but for the testes Cain shows in airing something so out of the ordinary. I mean, in some dark editing room, Cain and his handlers actually said, “It’s a wrap; let’s go with it.” I find that kind of exhilarating. Cain’s wink of a smile at the end is classic, too.
As a political ad I think the spot may be useless, but as a branding tool it probably has some value. But what is Cain branding himself for? Whatever it is, he has my attention.
I think I may love it. But I wouldn’t have authorized it.
This Ad is so unselfconsciously corny it highlights one of the biggest problem with the Cain campaign, a lack of discipline. Herman Cain thought it was funny to say “Ubeki-beki-beki-stan-stan” Even though I did not know Uzbekistan’s president was Islam Karimov, I don’t wear my ignorance as a badge of honor.
Authenticity is great. However, Cain’s campaign manager looks just silly with that 70’s stache and cigarette. Obama with a billion dollars and a legitimate claim to some foreign policy success will chew Cain up if he does not exude a little more gravitas.