If not Bush or Kerry, vote Barbie Mattel launches 'presidential campaign' of flagship doll, which is being sold by Toys R Us for $20. August 13, 2004: 7:10 AM EDT NEW YORK (Reuters) - Look out Bush and Kerry, Barbie's making a run for the White House. No. 1 toy manufacturer Mattel Inc. (MAT: Research, Estimates) launched a presidential campaign for its popular fashion doll at the flagship Toys R Us (TOY: Research, Estimates) store in Manhattan's Times Square on Thursday. The promotion is being conducted in partnership with the White House Project, a group that encourages women to run for public office. Dozens of girls aged 3 to 12 attended the "press conference" wearing shirts emblazoned with slogans like "Future Frontrunner" and carrying signs that said "Go Vote. Go Run. Go Lead. Go Girl." The event comes months after Mattel announced a "break-up" of longtime doll couple Barbie and Ken. The company is working to capitalize on its best-known product, which has been losing its appeal to older kids. The move is less a money-making initiative for Mattel, and more a labor of love, Mattel spokeswoman Julia Jensen told Reuters. "This educates girls and also engages them with the Barbie brand in a new way," Jensen said. "It also gets parents involved." Mattel and the White House Project are also encouraging parents to bring daughters to the voting booth. A Barbie for President doll will be sold exclusively at Toys R Us stores through the end of the U.S. presidential election and the balance of the year for about $20. Each doll comes with a leadership tip sheet. Of course, Barbie is no stranger to the career world. She's been a veterinarian, surgeon, police officer, astronaut and business executive. Girls can vote on her campaign issues at the Barbie Web site. Copyright 2004 Reuters All rights reserved.
:? Sure Barbie for president why didn't I think of that. Got to run to the store in Manhattan's Times Square... See you later!