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July 21, 2008

Town Hall Debate for President: Iron Man vs Batman

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Date: Saturday, July 26th
Time: 12 O’clock noon
Location: Fantom Comics Tenleytown

This Saturday Fantom Comics Tenleytown will host a town hall debate between Bruce “Batman” Wayne and Tony “Iron Man” Stark.

Several months ago Fantom Comics posed the question: which super-hero would make the best American president, were they to run in the 2008 presidential election? We offered our customers the choice of 16 candidates: 8 from Marvel Comics and 8 from DC Comics.

This May, on Free Comic Book Day, the customers spoke. Batman was nominated as DC’s candidate, and Iron Man as Marvel’s.

Since then the debate has been raging. Who would be the better president? This coming Saturday you’ll have a chance to ask the candidates the tough questions.

The debate will start at noon and run for one hour. As this is a town hall style debate, the questions will be asked by the audience, so be sure to bring some good ones along with you!

Snacks will be provided for all attendees!

Iron Man will be portrayed by professional stand-up comedian and uberdork Jimmy Meritt. Batman by professional comic book slinger and strong-jawed Jordan Kessler.

See you then!

July 20, 2008

Beware of Those Who Lie in Shadows

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by Brandon Baker-Rice

In this race for President, there is a stark contrast between the two candidates. Though both have dedicated their lives and fortunes to combating the dangers in this world, the difference between the two is clear as night and day.

Tony Stark is a man who represents the bright, shining prospect of tomorrow. He operates in the full light of day, working with our proud first-responders in order to keep this entire country safe from threats both big and small, local and galactic. He believes that the United States should continue to act as a shining beacon of hope, to which other nations can look for inspiration and purpose.

Batman, on the other hand, slinks about in the shadows, shirking both law and responsibility, on a single-minded quest for vengeance. He never once questions how his extra-judicial methods impede the cases of legitimate law enforcement agents, contributing to the revolving door that is Gotham's judicial system. He is too busy jumping around on rooftops, hiding from the light of day. The light of truth. His administration would be one of secrecy, of darkness, of deception, and ultimately, one that would spell dark days for this country.

No one can question Batman's noble goals. However, his tactics and focus show that his first concern is not to move this country forward on the path towards a new tomorrow, but instead to drag it down to the shadowy realm in which he dwells.

July 16, 2008

OP-ED: Bruce Wayne is the Better Man for President

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Bats beats Shellhead's Shenanigans any day of the week
by: Jeffrey Howe


Bruce Wayne or Tony Stark? President or dictator? If you elect the latter, a dictator is what you will get.

Consider Tony Stark: A brilliant mind once seeking to better humanity, now pursuing an agenda of complete military and political control. We are on the verge of electing a war criminal that has already effectively gained military control over the whole of the U.S.

Stark was at one time the Secretary of Defense (pretty convenient for a weapon's manufacturer). This was supposedly to keep track of his technology. Now he is the head of S.H.I.E.L.D. and the Avengers. Is Stark content with so much power? Sadly, no. Now he seeks to control the rights of those who, through an accident of birth or circumstance, find themselves endowed with extraordinary abilities. The Avengers Initiative is nothing more than a thinly veiled attempt to consolidate all meta-humans under his thumb.

Perhaps this could be forgiven if Stark were competent enough to wield this power effectively. Sadly, he is not. Even with all of the resources at his disposal, Stark was unable to prevent – and indeed instigated – a massive conflict among the superhero community with the passing of the super-registration act. The country has still not recovered from the resulting damage and loss of life. Cities were leveled and heroes murdered. On the heels of this debacle, an irate Hulk returned to earth, after a forcible exile by a cabal of Stark and his peers. Stark is not even in office yet and he has brought our country to its knees twice in the space of a year. If this same caliber of damage had come from outside, it would be called an act of war.

This is in sharp contrast to Bruce Wayne, native son of a city so vile, even its prominent citizens could not walk the streets safely. Here more than anywhere else is where Wayne/Batman should be hopelessly outclassed by the government-endorsed, better-funded Stark; yet operating entirely on his own, at his sole expense, Wayne has managed to keep Gotham City in one piece, even reclaiming it from the devastating earth quake and subsequent No Man's Land conditions of 1999. Here, in a city that was riddled with corruption, rife with murder, and in the grip of a pandemic of criminal insanity, this ever-vigilant figure has managed to maintain order in what should be a lawless city.

No one has any illusions about Gotham City. At any given time one might run into the Joker or another rogue fresh from the revolving door that is Arkham Asylum. It is a city constantly on the verge of tearing itself apart. Yet the city stands. Its citizens live, prosper, and dream. How is this possible? The sheer determination of Mr. Wayne. His relentless dedication to the people of Gotham city has ensured the continued survival of his city.

By all rights Gotham should have fallen long ago to either anarchy or a heavy-handed fascist. Yet thanks to Mr. Wayne, this has never occurred. With a fraction of Stark's resources and casualties, he has maintained peace and order where there should be only chaos.

The people of this nation require competent leadership. Mr. Stark simply cannot provide that. He has spread himself too thin, and has too many vested interests to be either trustworthy or reliable. His actions have repeatedly endangered this country. On the other hand, Mr. Wayne has snatched his city, and in many cases the whole world, from the jaws of disaster time and again. In both cases the results speak for themselves.

The real question is whether you, the people, want America still standing in four years’ time.

May 3, 2008

The Votes Are In!

In a close race, the prince of Gotham, Bruce Wayne won the DC comics nomination, norrowly defeating Ollie Queen, the once mayor of Star City.

The winner of the Marvel Nomination was, in a historic landslide, none other than Stark Industries founder Tony Stark.

April 29, 2008

Marvel Presidential Endorsements

A few Marvel “super” delegates have weighed in with who they support for the Marvel nomination in the ongoing Presidential race. Perhaps their insight will help you decide who should lead the Marvel ticket.

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From Bruce Banner, the Hulk:
Some decisions are complex and require a great many hours of deliberation. The decision of who to nominate for President however, is easy. Jennifer Walters is the clear choice, and not just because she is my cousin. She is a smart and able woman who understands the importance of helping others. Her years of work as both a lawyer and super-hero show that she is fully prepared to handle whatever situation comes this way. Furthermore, she understands the need to protect people's civil liberties and individual rights. Nothing is more important than allowing people to be themselves and be free from the government trying to control their every action. She is nothing like Iron Man, or Mr. Fantastic, OR ANY OF THOSE OTHER FACISTS. THEY JUST MAKE ME SO ANGRY THAT I WANT TO SMASH SOMETHING. THEY THINK THEY CAN DO THAT TO THE HULK. ARGHKLHALKH;GDHLAGKDFJGKJDHVKAJSDHFAKJSHDF……

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From Peter Parker, Spiderman:
Picking the next President is a big deal, and one that not even I take lightly. After thinking about it, and considered many of the qualified candidates, I believe the right choice is Matt Murdock. In the countless times I have worked with him, he has always shown himself to be and adept and courageous man, working to help those in need, both as the Daredevil and as a defense attorney. His desire to stick up for the little guy and fight the business goliaths like the Kingpin (talk about a heavy hitter), mirrors my own values. Furthermore, as recent events have taught me, you need to have someone who understands the people and doesn't just try to dictate rulings and laws from their Tower. Therefore, I think Matt Murdock is a great visionary who will be able to lead this country to a brighter tomorrow.

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From Scott Summers, Cyclops:
I am well aware the pressure and responsibility that comes with leading, and the amount of responsibility associated with being President is monumental. Therefore, I can only recommend one man for the job, and that is Professor X. Though relationships have been tense recently between us, the truth is that the man’s convictions and beliefs are just as relevant today as they have always been. The experience he brings, combined with his hopes and aspirations, would help heal a divided nation, while protecting and assisting those in need. His compassion, intelligence, and drive will serve both him and this nation well. Though we may not agree on every issue, there is no nobler man who I rather see serve as President of the United States.

April 28, 2008

More Marvel Ads

Matt Murdock:
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Carol Danvers:
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Reed Richards:
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Norman Osborne:
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Charles Xavier:
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Jennifer Walters:
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April 20, 2008

DC Presidential Ads

Bruce Wayne:
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Lois Lane:
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April 18, 2008

Marvel Presidential Ads

TONY STARK:

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NICK FURY:

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And in just a few days -- the DC Ads!

April 17, 2008

The Nominees!

Okay, here they are, the 16 nominees for president: 8 Marvel and 8 DC. Let the campaigning begin!

MARVEL

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Carol Danvers "Ms. Marvel"
Carol Danvers has a long, distinguished career in government service. She served in the Air Force as both a pilot and intelligence officer, served as NASA's Security Chief; and worked for the Department of Homeland Security. Additionally she is noted for her time as a magazine editor and her heroic work with the Avengers. She believes in a strong rule of law, immigration reform, and stronger punishment for criminals. She also supports better programs for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.

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Nick Fury
Though most famous for being the commander of the US Army's Howling Commandos during World War II, Fury also is a veteran of World War I, Korea, and Vietnam. He continued his years of distinguished service after leaving the army, first with the CIA, and later with the international organization known as S.H.I.E.L.D. He supports the use of international organizations, but also believes in the use of preemptive force when necessary. He is anti-illegal aliens and supports a strong anti-drug policy. He also believes in the need for a robust intelligence service and government independence when taking appropriate actions.

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Matt Murdock “Daredevil”
Matt Murdock is a traditional Irish-Catholic, who grew up on the hard streets of New York. Blinded at a young age, Daredevil sees an important role for the government helping out those in need of assistance. Though he made his money as a defense attorney, he takes a strong stand against organized crime and drugs and is pro-gun control. He believes in traditional moral values.

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Norman Osbourne "Green Goblin"
A famed industrialist and entrepreneur, Osbourne currently heads the group known as the Thunderbolts. He supports reduced taxes, reduced government regulation of the economy, the legalization of some drugs, and the death penalty. He is opposed to gun control.

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Reed Richards “Mr. Fantastic”
Reed Richards is perhaps the greatest scientific genius on the planet and the leader of the Fantastic Four. He is a great supporter of education, science, and space exploration. He also believes in strong rule of law, and supports increased funding for law enforcement as well as stronger penalties for criminals. He has established a strong anti-illegal alien stance.

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Tony Stark "Iron Man"
Tony Stark made his money as a defense contractor and remains one of the United States foremost industrialist. As Iron Man, he has lead the Avengers and also served as the director of the international organization S.H.I.E.L.D. He believes in a firm rule of law and harsher sentences for criminals. He believes in an aggressive foreign policy, the use of force, and the right to bear arms. He believes in free market principles and increased trade, but holds an anti-illegal alien stance.

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Jennifer Susan Walters "She-Hulk"
Daughter of a Los Angles Sheriff, Jennifer Susan Walters is a skilled attorney as well as a former member of the Avengers and Fantastic Four. She believes in the rehabilitation of criminals, protecting the environment, and the need to balance concerns of civil liberties with security measures.

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Charles Xavier "Professor X"
The founder and former director of Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters, Professor X has been a pioneer in civil rights. A natural genius, he would obtain 3 doctorates, serve in the Korean War, and work with holocaust survivors, all before founding the X-Men. In addition to his efforts of peaceful reconciliation, he has also railed against criminals, drugs, the death penalty, and terrorism. He is a firm supporter of education, health care, pro-choice policies, and the government assisting those who are less fortunate. He takes a less aggressive stance in foreign policy, and believes that proper mediation can instead resolve many disputes.

DC

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Commissioner James Gordon
Originally from Chicago, James Gordon would gain fame as police commissioner in notoriously dangerous Gotham City. He took a strong stance against crime and corruption within the department. He believes in a strong rule of law and the need for government reform. He supports gun control efforts, and anti-drug policies.

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John Henry Irons "Steel"
A Washington, DC native, John Henry Irons is a small business owner and community leader. He takes a strong stand against crime and drugs, but also believes in the need for reforming corporate governance. He supports urban revitalization projects and blue collar workers in traditional American industries.

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Lois Lane
The famed reporter for the Daily Planet is known for her hard hitting investigative style. She possess a strong interest in government reform and increased oversight of business practices. She believes in increased government openness. She has a strong civil rights record and is somewhat distrustful of Big Business.

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Dr. Will Magnus
Creator of the Metal Men, Doc Magnus is credited as one of the greatest scientists alive. He is a promoter of education and increased funding for math and science programs. He supports traditional American industries and workers. He also remains suspicious of rising Chinese power and influence in global affairs.

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Oliver Queen "Green Arrow"
Former columnist and Mayor of Star City, Oliver Queen believes that drastic change is needed to place the United States on the right path. He supports gay marriage, gun control, rehabilitation of criminals, and increased funding for education. He believes in the need to increase government intervention in the economy and reduce subsidies and tax breaks that benefit large corporations. He also anti-death penalty and an environmentalist.

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John Stewart "Green Lantern"
A decorated Marine sniper and former architect, John Stewart is well respect throughout the galaxy for his work with the Green Lantern Corps. He holds a pro-immigration stance. He believes in an active role for international (and inter-galactic) institutions and the need to use US power for good in the world. He opposes the death penalty and believes in the rehabilitation of criminals.

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Bruce Wayne "Batman"
Batman is known throughout the country for his efforts to clean up the streets of Gotham. He is a crusader for anti-crime and drug efforts, as well as gun control. He is opposed to the death penalty, but does believe in harsher sentencing requirements for criminals. He supports a strong effort on the War on Terror. He is a strong backer of urban renewal efforts and increased civic participation.

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Amanda Waller
A former congressional aide and the head of the Suicide Squad, Amanda Waller was eventually tapped to become the Secretary of Metahuman Affairs for the United States. In addition, she led Checkmate, both when it was a United States agency, and later, when it came under the auspice of the United Nations. She takes a strong stance against crime, and believes in the need for harsher sentencing and the death penalty. She also believes that the need for security often outweighs concerns over civil liberties. She supports unilateral U.S. action in foreign affairs, and the policy of preemptive war.

April 14, 2008

Fantom Comics announces SUPER-HERO ELECTION 2008: MARVEL VS. DC!!!

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Sure, the 2008 presidential primaries are interesting. But why settle for regular humans when you can vote for SUPER-humans?! Barack Obama may be a fine orator, but can he stretch himself into ridiculous shapes? John McCain was a war hero – no question – but has he seen any action in interstellar combat? And Hilary Clinton may carry a famous name, but is it more famous than Bruce Wayne?

We at Fantom Comics want to offer people another option. That's why we're holding elections for President of the USA pitting the best of DC against Marvel's finest in an election for the ages!

THE PRIMARIES
The primaries start this coming Thursday, April 17th, when we announce on the website the 16 candidates (8 marvel, 8 DC) that will be running for their publisher's (hereafter referred to as their "party's") nomination. We will post a short blurb about each candidate and the debate can start.

THE NOMINATION
On FREE COMIC BOOK DAY, Saturday, May 3, we will hold party elections at both our stores. Each person may vote once in each party’s nomination. ONLY THOSE PHYSICALLY PRESENT CAN VOTE. Sorry, no online voting, no absentee voting, no proxy voting. You must be present in the store on May 3rd to cast your vote. But hey, it’s Free Comic Book Day, so you’ll want to be there anyway. Oh, and you of course DO NOT have to purchase anything to vote. The voting booths close at 4:30pm SHARP.

This primary election will be a bit old-fashioned, as the 2nd place candidates will become their party’s vice-presidential nominee. Yes, we know it didn’t work too well with Aaron Burr and all, but to keep things simple this is just how it’s gonna be.

The winners of the party primaries will be announced simultaneously at both our locations and on the website at 5:30PM.

THE ELECTION
Once the party tickets are announced, three months of campaigning will begin. Fantom Comics has assembled two teams of experts to serve as the campaign staff for the two party’s nominees. They will bring us biting commentary, sassy op-eds, blush-inducing mud-slinging, quasi-legal dirty tricks and even 3 LIVE DEBATES (1 VP debate and 2 candidate debates) to be held at our Tenleytown store! All of this will culminate on Election Day, SATURDAY, AUGUST 30th! (Note: More details on election day as the date approaches).

The presidential winner will get a special table set aside for them during the month of September, in which trade paperbacks (aka Graphic Novels) featuring him or her will be offered at 15%-off all month. Books featuring the candidate’s VP will come at a 10% discount.

VOTER PARTICIPATION
We highly encourage open debate. Here’s what you, the voter, can do:

Comment on postings. Fantom Comics gets thousands of unique users to its site each day. Comments you make could very well sway at least a few of them – perhaps enough to push your candidate into first.

If you email an op-ed to matt@fantomcomics.com, we’ll post it for you under your name. The piece must come in at under 700 words and management reserves the right to edit it for brevity and grammar. We also reserve the right to reject your piece outright.

Email us at matt@fantomcomics.com with “Questions for the Candidates.” We’ll have their campaign team answer them and post them on a regular basis. Or maybe it’s such a good question we’ll save it for a debate. We will also have an “ask the candidate” box at each of our stores for those of you that can separate yourself from your keyboards.

THE RULES
Fantom Management, through exhaustive research and debate, has selected a list of candidates to run on their party's ticket. The criteria we used:

1) All candidates must conform to constitutional requirements for president. That means they must be over 35 (sorry Spider-Man) and born in the US (aw, too bad Superman). NOTE: Most of the candidates’ ages are debatable. Generally speaking, we offered some leeway to characters near the age limit.

2) The character must have been “outed” as a super-hero, so they can run under both their cape and alter ego identities.

3) Batman is excepted from Rule #2 because we feel he’s too cool to be left out. Bruce Wayne will be running under the assumption that he outed himself at the beginning of the campaign. We also made an exception for Matt Murdock/Daredevil, as he’s been outed on 2 separate occasions and we are sure he will be again in the future.

4) Actions taken by the candidates in non-continuity stories CAN be brought into the debate, but they will of course be considered less credible than events happening in mainstream continuity, as those are the personas that will be running for office.

5) If we saw it happen (be it in a comic book, movie, whatever), then it’s “public knowledge.” What matters is what we, the readers know, and not what other characters from the comics know of the person. For example: people in the Marvel Universe may not know that Professor X hates bagels, but because it was revealed in Uncanny X-Men #438, WE know and therefore it’s considered public knowledge. These candidates have no private life, and the only thing that can save them from their embarrassing past is a lazy opposition that doesn’t raise the issue.

Have fun, and see you at the ballot booth!