Code-switching in politics and the subtle branding behind “keeping it real”

Ankur Pandit
Nov 7 · 7 min read

In 2009, then President-elect Barack Obama was visiting a diner called Ben’s Chili Bowl in Washington, D.C. After ordering his chili, the cashier asks Obama if he wants change. Obama calmly replies Nah, we straight”. The interaction has been cited frequently by publications, showcasing it as an example of Obama’s ability to seamlessly shift into African…

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Ankur Pandit

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Publishing stories that dive deep into the topics I’m passionate about — branding, politics, policy, psychology, tech, and culture.

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