Politicians and their hair have a fabled history. From the powdered wigs of presidential yore, to the legend that is Lincoln’s beard, to the endless amount of perfection that former presidential candidate John Edwards poured into his now infamous locks; the relationship between political maven and their political hair has been rife for parody over the years, and for good reason. After all, have you ever seen a politician that was bald?
So with that, here are only some of the most famous (and maligned) examples of political hair.
Abraham Lincoln
Lincoln reigns supreme as one of this nations most storied and legendary presidents. Along with his height (6′ 4″) he is best remembered for his oft imitated chin-strap beard. Replicas have been donned by many an adolescent child before performing an impromptu rendition of the late president’s Gettysburg Address in front of their 5th grade history class.
As a former Democratic Representative from Ohio Traficant’s claim to fame was his 2002 expulsion from congress and his federal imprisonment for corruption. After briefly dominating the headlines following his misappropriation of campaign funds the bizarre nature of Traficant’s hair came to light. It’s almost as difficult to describe the style as it is to imagine what was going through the mans head when he decided on it. Resembling what can best be described as a dead animal, “the Traficant”* is one of his best (and least costly to the taxpayer) legacies.
The former Illinois Governor was removed from office after he attempted to sell off President Obamas seat in the Illinois state senate. After his political career met its meteoric demise Blagojevich pushed the boundaries of his 15 minutes of fame by starring on a handful of reality shows before beginning his corruption trail. His hair, which takes up nearly half his head is arguably bigger, and certainly less despicable than Blagojevich’s seemingly unending quest for attention.
Ronald Reagan
Personally I always thought the late presidents hair resembled a molded piece of plastic gently set on top of his head. And, quite frankly, judging by the amount of slick he probably weaved in there, it might as well have been. Perhaps, I’m willing to cede, Mr. Reagan’s head of hair recalled the former generation of Hollywood stars that he belonged to.
John Edwards
The man, the myth, the legend. In terms of political hair, few individuals are better known for their follicle follies than the former Senator from North Carolina. Suffice to say, Edwards was obsessed with his hair, and in particular that part. Edwards hair obsession has, in the lexicon of pop culture overshadowed both his 2004 and 2008 presidential campaigns and even his extramarital affairs; a fact due in no small part (pun intended) to this video. Oh my gosh that part! So beautiful, so calming!
*BuyCostumes make no guarantee that your barber or stylist will be able to (or desire to) replicate this hairstyle upon your request.
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