Cartoonist Depicts Powell As Benedict Arnold In Blackface

As if Colin Powell needed one more reminder of the toxic level of political discourse that, in part, fueled his decision to endorse Barack Obama, political cartoonist Gordon Campbell has captured the moment by portraying Powell as Benedict Arnold, in blackface. Inscribed at the bottom of the cartoon is the phrase, "Benedict Powell, Race Patriot."

In remarks reported on by Politicker, Campbell echoed the sentiments of Rush Limbaugh, saying:

"The only reasonable explanation for such a public political "about-face" in the midst of this important election is that Colin Powell, perhaps understandably, wishes to see someone who looks like himself in the White House," Campbell said.

"It's my opinion that General Powell has based his endorsement of Barack Obama on the color of his skin, not his qualifications, his experience or the content of his character."

Here is Campbell's cartoon, a model of decorum and overall classiness.

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Cartoonist depicts Colin Powell as Benedict Arnold in blackface. [ThinkProgress]
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