Adios Mo-Fo!

Texas Governor Rick Perry just handed his gubernatorial primary opponent Comptroller Carole Strayhorn a huge on-camera gift that should be repeated on near countless television commercials between now and March:

Trying to build publicity for the rollout of his education plan, Mr. Perry did a series of TV interviews Monday in a studio in Austin. In one, he repeatedly declined to give KTRK-TV reporter Ted Oberg details of his proposal, which the governor didn't intend to divulge until a news conference Tuesday.

After the interview was over and Mr. Perry had said you're welcome and so long, Mr. Oberg acknowledged that Mr. Perry had successfully maintained the secrecy of his plan for another day: "Try as I may, Governor, I guess I can't win this one."

Mr. Perry looked off camera and appeared to mock Mr. Oberg, saying: "Try as I may, governor, I'm just not going to wait that long. ... "

Then the governor added as a sign-off: "Adios, mo-fo."

What a great tagline! In the past 12 years I've performed opposition and defensive research for almost 70 campaigns, and can recall few comments by incumbents with such potential for fun negative messages. If that's not a prominent Strayhorn campaign attack theme, surely they're missing the boat.

Imagine a series of negative commercials all ending with the phrase "Isn't it time to tell Rick Perry ..." then interjecting him announcing "Adios mo-fo." Now THAT's good negative television fodder! Since he didn't fully articulate the words, you could use the actual clip in the ad! You could also turn it into some really righteous direct mail.

What a delightful blunder! This gubernatorial primary is going to be fun to watch.

See Rick Perry vs. The World for a defense of Perry's remarks.

UPDATE: A commenter provides the link to the video. Thanks Keath!

NUTHER UPDATE: That was quick: PinkDome has already recognized the merchandizing opportunity!