[counterpunch]

What conspiracy theory..? I'm talking about people's perceptions. The White House is the very heart of American identity. This has nothing to do with what is with in the bounds of law. I'm not talking about that. I'm not saying it is illegal for Kerry to be married to a Mozambique-born woman and run for President, but I am saying that quite a lot of Americans may have a problem with having a Mozambique-born First Lady, and may think it ought to be illegal. Knowing that the President and Vice President must be American born, there is, I'm sure, some confusion about if it applies to the First Lady among a lot of people, and it would seem logical to quite a lot of people that it should.

The First Lady represents American identity more than anyone else. She represents the all-American ideal. That has been her traditional role, as a traditional American woman. Could you imagine the Christmas at the White House special with Teresa Heinz..?

[Non-Sequitur]

...but I am saying that quite a lot of Americans may have a problem with having a Mozambique-born First Lady, and may think it ought to be illegal.

Just Mozambique-born or other countries as well? And just foreign born First Ladies of Democrat Presidents or would you include Republicans in the ban?

But if you're serious then call your Senator and get the ball rolling on the Constitutional amendment. It'll probably have to wait behind the Marriage Amendment but hey, best of luck to you.

[horatio]

The First Lady represents American identity more than anyone else. She represents the all-American ideal. That has been her traditional role, as a traditional American woman. Could you imagine the Christmas at the White House special with Teresa Heinz..?

Yes I can, and I don't picture it being much different from a Christmas special with any other First Lady. It would be as inane as any other.

The hallmark of this great nation is that is was founded by people who came from other countries to be free. We judge a person on their character, not their accent. Slam her on the issues, but don't make an issue of her place of birth. Unless, of course, you make the same veiled accusations against Schwarzenegger's loyalties or fitness.