Famecrawler
Obama Shirtless Photos: Are They Really Necessary?
So when exactly did the president of the United States become the equivalent of Hollywood beefcake? The pictures of Barack Obama shirtless and swimming in the Gulf of Mexico have caused quite an online stir.
On the one hand, it’s nice to see the president get a break with his family and do his best to prove to the world that the gulf waters are safe once again post-BP oil spill (but, umm, I still won’t be eating seafood there).
On the other hand, doesn’t it seem weird that there’s that much interest in seeing the president without his shirt? What ever happened to respect for the Oval Office? Here’s why these pictures should have stayed private.
We’re not talking about Zac Efron or Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino here. We’re talking about the leader of the free world. I realize that the office of the president doesn’t draw quite the same respect that it did a few decades ago, but should we really be salivating over Obama’s pecs like he’s some B-list Hollywood actor?
It seems disrespectful of his position. Plus, next time he’s negotiating an arms deal with another world leader, try to imagine their conversation. Other world leader: “So, Mr. Obama, I can see you’ve been working out. Do you have any advice for how to get better definition in my abs?” Obama: “Here’s my copy of Men’s Fitness. Try the workout on page 78.”
You might argue that it’s a sign of just how popular the president is that people want to see his bod (though his poll numbers would tell you something different). Or that we’ve had so few young, buff presidents that this is probably a one-time anomaly.
But I still think the picture obsession is inappropriate. Unlike the cast of “Jersey Shore,” the leader of the free world deserves some privacy.
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2 Comments
Lucky commented on Aug 17 10 at 8:15 amThis was a white house photo op closed to the press. It was taking pretty specifically to show that gulf waters are safe. It’s not like he’s flexing on the beach or rolling around in the sand with Michelle. He’s just swimming with his kid.
Lucky commented on Aug 17 10 at 8:18 amOh, and just for clarification, the pictures of them standing in the water was from 2 years ago. The one you show on this post is the only one that was released from this trip.
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