"Win the Presidential racie ... Vote for Gracie, Keep voting all day long ... "
In the 1940 presidential election, Franklin D Roosevelt had some competitive contenders: Wendell Willkie (GOP) and comedianne, Gracie Allen, of the "Surprise Party."
Gracie Allen's spoof 1940 bid for the presidency was a publicity stunt which boosted ratings of the Burns and Allen Show during a whistle-stop tour across the US.
Q. "What do you think of the national debt?"
A. "We ought to be proud of it—it's the biggest in the world."
Q. "What do you think of the Dies Committee?"
A. "We've got to keep it going. Who'd color the Easter eggs?"
FDR was ulitmiately reelected for his third term with 54% of the electorate, but Gracie did draw some write-in votes. The collection contains the Feb 28 - May 29, 1940 Burns and Allen broadcasts as well as an episode of Good News, Fibber McGee and Jack Benny Show.
These classic recordings are available in the following formats:
Show Rating
14
140
COMMENTS
At least the publicity stunt was known to be a publicity stunt. Unlike the fake assault someone tried to pull off as real to garner sympathy and publicity. I you want attention, don't fake a crime. Do like Gracie and fake a run for the White House.
Mildred Verified Purchase
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I think George and Gracie were at their best on the broadcasts on radio between 1945 to 50 when they had Meredith Willson telling his corny jokes and Bill (can't think of his last name) doing the commercials and being a lady's man. Gracie was "trying" promote George as a singer and George got off rejoinders.
Walt Verified Purchase
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I thought the Kangaroo Party was a stroke of genius!!
Rebecca Verified Purchase
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SO FUNNY. Just can't stop laughing.
Rick Verified Purchase
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