Forget Iowa: The Real Campaign Story Is in Pawnee

An online campaign puts Parks and Recreation character Ron Swanson in the race for Indiana governor. We're on board.

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ronswanson2012.org

If you belong to the Church of Ron Swanson, you’ll be happy to know that the Parks and Rec character’s bid for governor of Indiana is still going strong.

TV’s favorite libertarian announced his (parody) campaign via a Twitter feed (@ronswanson2012) last May and has been tweeting steadily ever since, including his New Year’s resolution for the coming year.

The person behind the Ron Swanson 2012 website and Twitter account is unknown, but they disclose that they’re unaffiliated with NBC, Parks and Recreation, and actor Nick Offerman. However, the website is Ron Swanson through and through.

“Vote for me. Or don’t. What do I care?” Swanson’s campaign strategy is straight and to the point: “My whole premise in running is to prove that you don’t need me—or anyone—telling you how to run your life.”

There’s even a full-size image of the Swanson Pyramid of Greatness for Swansonites to print out and put up on their wall. “Honor” is listed up top (“If you need it defined, you don’t have it”), followed by “America—The only country that matters. If you want to experience other ‘cultures,’ use an atlas or a ham radio,” and “Buffets—Whenever available choose quantity over quality.”

For those unfamiliar with Swanson’s stances on key issues, they can head over to “Ron’s Views” for his words of wisdom regarding education, government, family values, jobs, and art: “Why the government is involved in art is beyond me. I also think it’s pointless for a human to paint scenes of nature when they could just go outside and stand in it.”

Convinced he’s the candidate for you? Head over to “Donations” and take Ron’s advice and spend 20 bucks on yourself instead.

MORE: Ron Swanson’s Turkey Burger Made Flesh