If getting pepper-sprayed at Wal-Mart while fighting a 70-year-old for the last waffle iron isn’t your idea of an enjoyable shopping scene, perhaps a kinder, gentler — and more Washington-flavored — excursion is in order.
We proudly submit the Loop’s sometimes-annual holiday gift guide, perfect for steering you to the gear sure to delight the wonky and hard-to-please on your shopping list.
This year, there’s no shortage of swag catering to fans of any of the Republican presidential contenders. Newt Gingrich fans, for instance, might like this lovely “Newt 2012” necklace we spied at CafePress.com. It may not come in a little blue box, but at $19.50, it’s affordable even if you’re not a hot ticket on the lecture circuit.
Opponents of former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney (and this could include Republicans or Democrats) will love a pair of Romney flip-flop sandals, perfect for showering at the gym — and displaying one’s displeasure at the GOP front-runner’s somewhat flexible persona.
There are several models to choose from on CafePress.com, including a pair featuring the word “No!” on one shoe and “Yes!”on the other. Another reads “Mitt Flips!” on one and “Mitt Flops!” on the other.
An extra reusable shopping bag is always handy, and Democrats will enjoy one with a lavish illustration of first lady Michelle Obama on a swing above the phrase “First Lady of Fabulous.” Actually, this one’s several steps above a gag — it’s actually campily stylish and was designed by noted British illustrator Fiona Hewitt.
And there’s something for everyone from noted Washington jeweler Ann Hand. Her shop offers those lovely Swarovski campaign pins that make for a classy alternative to a loud plastic button. Choose “Obama 2012” or any of the top Republican candidates (yes, even Ron Paul).
As a broader theme, we continue to note that there are classier options for Republican gifts than for their Dem counterparts. For example, the Capitol Hill Club offers GOP merchandise that a member of the 1 percent might like. Cuff links, for example, or a subtle elephant-print silk tie. Or a Limoges box.
In contrast, Democrats have options that are far more, well, Everyman. Take the tote bags and pink “Democratic Woman” T-shirts offered on the Democratic National Committee’s site.
Much more bowling alley than boardroom.
Divided loyalties
Latino lawmakers and organizations are furious over the Senate’s failure to break a GOP filibuster of the nomination of recess appointee Mari Carmen Aponte to remain in her post as ambassador to El Salvador.
The Obama administration and Senate Democrats fell 11 votes short of the 60 needed to bring the nomination to a vote. Without confirmation, Aponte will lose her ambassadorship at the end of this year.
Latinos specifically singled out Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) for blame, with Rep. Nydia Velazquez (R-N.Y.) saying he “promised to be the voice of Puerto Ricans in the Senate” but declined to “use that voice in support of a Puerto Rican woman who has shown she is immensely qualified.”
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