Mailbag: Does the dog define the candidate?

Four years ago, six Democrats were vying for their party's presidential nomination. Back then, the pundits griped there was very little light between the candidates. Not surprisingly, that's virtually the same thing I have been hearing since the Republicans debated in New Hampshire on June 13.

With the long Fourth of July weekend upon us, I have a suggestion for all the candidates hoping to challenge President Obama next year: Make sure you are seen eating hot dogs — the great American icon of food — as often as possible. Why? Because according to the Recipe Source, more than 150 million hot dogs will be consumed this holiday weekend. No politician can afford to pass up an audience that large.

Just ask my good friends Mayor Toni Iseman, Realtor Audrey Prosser, dentist Jim or certified public accountant Alan. Better yet, ask Obama. He recently ate a hot dog during a much-publicized outing in Toledo, Ohio. It was there he told the mayor, "Hold the ketchup."

Some people like Hebrew Nationals while others crave Nathan's or Boar's Head. A few die-hards still like Ballpark or Oscar Mayer. The truth is, hot dogs are big business.

When I am not eating hot dogs, I usually find myself mired in politics. That said, I have begun to wonder lately where each of the GOP presidential candidates stands on the all-important issue of "the dog."

No, this isn't a topic that will be debated anytime soon; however, I personally would like to know how each of them would dress his or her hot dog. Not that this will be my political tipping point, but it certainly will help me separate the true believers from the pretenders. So here, as a public service, I offer up the following White House contenders and their ideal hot dog.

Michele Bachmann of Minnesota: Is there any question here? The Iowa native loves corn dogs with a dab of yellow mustard. She can eat hers in a skirt or jeans. It doesn't get any more "down home, mid-Western values" than this.

Herman Cain of Georgia: If anyone can mix it up on the campaign trail, it's the former Godfather's Pizza chief executive. I see him creating something new on the stump. Along with chili, look to Cain to include bacon and at least three cheeses on his hot dog.

Newt Gingrich of Georgia: Given his reputation for long answers, I expect the former speaker of the House to have the most to say about his dog. With this thought in mind, I see Gingrich as a mustard and relish guy. On a whim, he might add a few chopped onions on top.