Obesity, the last presidential taboo

In a sense, we shun heavy-weight politicians because unhealthful behavior has replaced immoral conduct as our most visible and comfortably denounced form of self-destructiveness. We can argue endlessly about what forms of sexual expression constitute unacceptable indulgence (though we’ve reached unanimous disapproval on the likes of John Edwards or Jesse James), but we instantly, easily agree that obesity remains indefensible. We similarly rush to abjure smoking – which is why President Obama so carefully hides his cigarette habit. In the past, when nearly all Americans aspired to a traditional family life with a white picket fence and adorable dog, we elevated politicians who seemed (like John Kennedy, to all appearances) to personify our highest ideals and desires. Today, we feel much less certain about the proper path for intimate arrangements (with 40% of all births occurring out of wedlock) but we know what we want in terms of fitness and a slender body-build. No matter how eloquent or accomplished a fat candidate may seem. In today’s superficial and judgmental world few parents will say they want their children to follow his example.