Using a typical and expected Duck Dynasty mentality, patriarch Phil Robertson touts Republican businessman Vance McAllister as the chosen one to represent Louisiana’s 5th District because he??has the least political experience.? McAllister owns a pipeline construction company and several fast-food franchises.
McAllister is challenging Louisiana state Sen. Neil Riser, who gained popularity in the state with his anti-Obamacare message. They are vying for the seat of Rep. Rodney Alexander, who resigned in August amidst campaign finance payroll scandals. Riser has strong support from House leadership and has raised a significant amount of money, but McAllister, who filed his candidacy hours before the deadline, defeated 12 other candidates to win second place in the primary.
Duck Dynasty chronicles the lives of a family of bearded hunters in Louisiana who found fortune when Phil Robertson, the patriarch, invented the world’s most popular duck call. This has played out well for them because youngest son Willie Robertson actually has quite the head for business.
I like Duck Dynasty. The characters are lovable and there are some good lessons to be learned from their country wisdom and Phil and Willie’s common sense. It should be said, however, that in a scenario that didn’t involve an ambitious Phil in search of the best duck call in the world, he and Willie would likely be supporting many of the family members and a slew of friends. The prevailing theme of the group is a bunch of guys are constantly looking for creative ways to skip work and important family obligations to go hunting or fishing. The fact is, these guys are endearing mostly because of their wealth.
I hate to pick on the Robertson family. As I said, I love the show, love the characters, and honestly, they truly embody the American dream. They’re not really as back-woodsy as they seem, either. Willie and Phil have college degrees. But can they stay out of politics already? Jeesh.
Perhaps fortunately, McAllister faces a huge challenge against Riser’s popularity.?While Phil’s Duck Dynasty redneck philosophy of “the least experienced guy will save the day” may have been a winning strategy in making duck calls, it’s unlikely that it can be successfully applied to the world of politics that includes advocating for the people of Louisiana. ?Evidence newcomer to politics Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and his race to the bottom. But yeehaw!
Read more at Roll Call.
See Willie Robertson’s endorsement below.
