WASHINGTON -- Homer Simpson may have tried to vote for Barack Obama in 2008, but he's apparently switched his allegiance to former Louisiana Gov. Buddy Roemer (R) for 2012, according to federal campaign records.
Really.
Roemer, who raised $138,000 in the third quarter on donations limited to $100 or less, listed one $25 contribution from someone who identified himself as the beer-loving cartoon character, complete with a job described as "Nuclear Safety Inspector" at the Springfield Nuclear Power Plant. Even the address is the correct 742 Evergreen Terrace, but set in Atlanta.
Romer's campaign had not noticed the errant donation, but was amused -- albeit somewhat embarrassed -- to be informed of accepting cash from a fictional figure.
"Oh my God. That is too funny," said campaign manager Carlos Sierra, who said normally the campaign has an excellent screening system.
"We have one of the best accountants in the business," he said, vowing to find out who Homer really is.
"We'll call them. We have all their information, so we'll reach out to them and see what's going on, because we do not accept anonymous donations," said Sierra. "I will be personally calling him to look into that."
A Huffington Post review of FEC filings found no other instances of Simpson giving, although he did once attract the attention of Police Chief Clancy Wiggums for a charity donation scam seeking $1 donations in return for happiness.
Sierra said Roemer appreciates contributions from any real person.
"The governor takes a lot of time to call them and thank them for their donation," Sierra said. "He spoke to a janitor the other day, and he [the janitor] was very proud that he was able to max out."
As far as cartoon contributors, Sierra might have preferred another character.
"I'm more of a 'Family Guy' [fan] myself," he said.