Saturday, May 05, 2012

The Many Lives of Julia

Recently, the website for the Obama/Biden re-election campaign has featured a composite character named “Julia” whose story from age three to sixty-seven is meant to show voters “how President Obama’s policies help one woman over her lifetime,” compared to those of his (presumptive) opponent, Mitt Romney. The response has been very mixed, for reasons we are about to see, which may be why it is presently difficult to find on the campaign website. But not to worry; you can find it here.

The New York Times offers a brief and (predictably) sympathetic account:
At age 3, Julia is enrolled in Head Start programs, thanks to Mr. Obama. By 22, she’s covered by her parents’ health care because of Mr. Obama’s health reforms. At 42, she’s getting a small-business loan from the government. When she reaches 67, she’s retired and drawing Social Security benefits.

Meanwhile, the Heritage Foundation has created a sort of alternative universe for Julia, if a contrarian one, entitled "A Better Life for Julia." In addition, Ed Morrissey of Hot Air presents what is touted to be a more realistic narrative of the first scenario, and David Harsanyi wants to know "Who the hell is 'Julia,' and why am I paying for her whole life?"

In the event that the first scenario prevails, however, Nicole Gelinas of the City Journal provides an extended scenario of the life of Julia's son, “Zachary” which demonstrates the power of American ingenuity to win out in the long run.

We can only hope.

UPDATE: This presentation would be incomplete without Iowahawk getting into the act.

(H/T to Michelle Malkin.)
 

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