As the House conference scrambles to add some juice to its roster, why not reality television's brightest star?
The Washington Examiner reports that GOP operatives are eying Duck Commander CEO and star of Duck Dynasty Willie Robertson to replace retiring congressman Rodney Alexander. Alexander represents Robertson’s district in Congress.
"My boys want to run Willie Robertson for the seat," a "key outside adviser to House GOP leadership" told the Examiner.
Other sources say it's doubtful Robertson will co-sign on a congressional run, eschewing his bi-partisan appeal on Duck Dynasty and the millions he earns from business and television.
For now, Robertson’s camp is staying mum on the rumors and the state GOP says it's only interested in "serious candidates."
But: If by chance the murmurs crank up in volume, Robertson’s resume is the House GOP's dream.
Duck Dynasty is a runaway success for A&E with its third season finale racking in 9.6 million viewers and a 4.3 rating for adults 18-49, sharing that night with rusting colossus "American Idol." The ratings of Dynasty were triple those of the fading franchise. Americans want more from the Robertson clan. It would be like when Leslie Knope ran for city council in "Parks and Recreation."
Robertson's values are tailor-made for the House GOP. Despite making money off of hunting, his loyalty to the Second Amendment isn’t dependent on capitalism.
"We’re certainly pro-second amendment and pro-guns," he says. But it’s not a business-driven stance. "It’s not just our livelihood, but that’s what we like to do, you know: we hunt."
Despite the religious skepticism that's pervasive in 2013 America, Duck Dynasty thrives because of Robertson’s deeply rooted faith and the role it plays in his the success.
It also doesn't hurt that Robertson’s wife, Korie, would be a splendid addition to the 2014 "The Hill Top 50."
