The Fly Seen Around the World (on Mike Pence’s Head)

And other instances of political entomology

Illustration by Author.

At the most recent national debate, Vice President Mike Pence faced Democratic nominee Kamala Harris. Although Harris proved to be a fierce competitor on the issues, another candidate briefly made an appearance — the black fly that made itself comfortable on Mike Pence’s white-haired head.

As I watched the insect nestled on the Vice President’s head, I was eagerly waiting on it to finally fly away. After what seemed like the entirety of the debate, the fly did decide to get off the stage to tackle more pressing fly issues.

This event that everyone witnessed, except Mike Pence of course, is nothing new to politicians in the tv broadcasted era. Here’s a more recent history of insects that briefly enter into the political sphere.

The Japanese Beetle on President George W. Bush

In 2004, then President George W. Bush was addressing a large crowd at the State Capital of West Virginia. During this lively Fourth of July ceremony, the president spoke on freedom and his many thanks to American Veterans when something happened.

A small Japanese beetle landed on George W. Bush’s head right above his ear. Obviously insects like freedom…