10 Times South Park Made Fun of The President
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VOICE OVER: Ryan Wild
WRITTEN BY: Nick Spake
From crude jokes to political commentary, South Park has never shied away from taking on the Commander-in-Chief! Join us as we count down the times when Matt Stone and Trey Parker set their satirical sights on the Oval Office. Whether mocking Clinton's scandals, Bush's intelligence, or turning Mr. Garrison into a presidential stand-in, these episodes prove that in South Park, no leader is safe from ridicule! Our countdown includes Bill Clinton's sex scandals, Bush addressing the UN about Saddam in Heaven, Obama taking credit for Kyle's sacrifice, Garrison's rallies, the "Douche or Turd" election episode, and more! Which presidential parody do you think was South Park's most savage? Let us know in the comments!
10 Times South Park Went for the President
Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re looking at instances where “South Park” took on the President of the United States, reminding POTUS that everyone is fair game.
Bill Clinton’s Sex Life
Clinton’s second term was underway when “South Park” debuted in 1997. Not long after the Clinton–Lewinsky scandal started making headlines the following year, “South Park” commented on the president’s reported adultery by having Liane Cartman sleep her way into the White House. Even well after Clinton’s presidency ended, he wasn’t immune to mockery. In the Season 14 premiere, Clinton finds himself in a rehabilitation class with Tiger Woods, David Letterman, and several others who got caught in sex scandals. When asked how he ended up here, Clinton gives a graphic answer involving cigars. He also asks a demeaning question about Kyle’s mom. Clinton’s comments might be crude, although Obama is working behind the scenes to ensure women don’t learn the truth about men.
George W. Bush’s Intelligence
Compared to some other shows at the time, “South Park” didn’t regularly demonize George W. Bush. That’s not to say he got off with a slap on the wrist. Addressing the United Nations General Assembly, Bush shares intel that Saddam Hussein is making weapons of mass destruction… in Heaven. The others naturally have more than a few questions. Namely, how did Saddam get into the Good Place? In a humorous callback to a Season 4 two-parter, Bush reveals how Saddam’s bad breakup with Satan got him kicked out of Hell. Although everything Bush says is true - in the show’s canon at least - his explanation raises another question: is the president stupid or smoking something? Bush denies the latter. The stupid part, however…
Rallying
“South Park” fans sometimes forget Donald Trump briefly popped up in Season 5. Once Trump got serious about running for office years later, the creators chose to use Garrison as a stand-in. After Trump lost the 2020 election to Joe Biden, Garrison resumed civilian life. It appeared that would be the end of Garrison’s political career until Trump announced in 2022 that he was staging a 2024 comeback. Garrison thus falls back into an old habit: rallying. Despite telling boyfriend Rick that their trip to Myrtle Beach is just a getaway, it isn’t long until Garrison is badmouthing Mexicans and Biden with partygoing followers. The episode leaves Garrison on an ambiguous note, but let’s just say the rally animal does take Georgia and Arizona.
Barack Obama Takes The Credit
With the economy struggling, the people of South Park act as if their god has forsaken them. To restore order and sanity, Kyle makes the ultimate sacrifice: paying off the debts of everyone in town. It’s probably in vain, as people like Randy are inclined to make more excessive purchases that’ll inevitably lead to another recession. But hey, at least Kyle is recognized for his selfless actions, right? It appears so as a new anchor champions the leader who pulled America out of this bleak era… President Barack Obama. Whether or not you voted for Obama, there’s no denying that most news outlets showed him favoritism. This frustrates Kyle, whose noble gesture is ultimately overshadowed by a politician eager to accept the praise.
A Turd Candidate
With the 2004 presidential election around the corner, every American was asked, “Bush or Kerry?” Matt Stone and Trey Parker had another question on their minds: “Douche or Turd?” It didn’t make a difference to Stone or Parker with the latter saying that he “despised them both.” The creators expressed why they just didn’t care about the election’s outcome in this episode where South Park Elementary must choose between two less-than-flattering mascots. While neither George W. Bush nor John Kerry is directly mentioned, it’s clear who the creators are throwing shade at. The question is, “Which mascot is supposed to represent Bush?” Our money is on the fecal matter, even though Turd Sandwich loses the election while Bush won his second term.
Don’t Forget to Vote
Desperately wanting to end the 2020 pandemic, Stan calls his old teacher-turned-president for help. Garrison has no interest in stopping COVID’s spread, however. As far as the president is concerned, the virus has fulfilled a campaign promise regarding Mexicans. If it gets rid of other people along the way too, so be it. Taking matters into his own hands, Stan seemingly finds the path to a cure, even convincing Cartman to do what’s best for humanity. Unfortunately, he can’t appeal to Garrison, who takes a flamethrower to their last hope. Garrison parts with a reminder to vote in November. We’re not sure if that’s an endorsement for Biden, but it seems to sum up what Parker and Stone thought of Trump’s first term.
Spreading Fake Conspiracies
As Cartman ignites conspiracy theories about 9/11, Kyle sets out to uncover the truth. Kyle and Stan do discover a conspiracy with George W. Bush at the center. It turns out to be a conspiracy within a conspiracy, however. None of the conspiracies are true, but if citizens naively buy into whatever they read online, Bush figures the government might as well feed into them. It just makes the people in charge seem more powerful than they truly are. This episode aged surprisingly well, as many politicians - including presidents - have become infamous for spreading baseless conspiracy theories and misinformation. Whether or not these politicians actually believe the fake news being shared, they’re using conspiracy theories to manipulate the public.
Canadian Trump
Not wanting to give Trump the “satisfaction” of being on “South Park,” the show introduced a Canadian equivalent in a 2015 episode. The Canadian President’s rise to power eerily foreshadowed Trump’s presidential victory the following year. His wall can’t keep out Garrison, who removes the president from office in a very Garrison way. Although one brash politician has been thwarted, another arises in the form of Garrison with Caitlyn Jenner as a running mate. Like Canada, America fails to pay attention as Garrison heads for the White House. Even Garrison begins to realize that this has gone further than it ever should’ve, attempting to nip it in the bud. Hillary Clinton doesn’t make it easy, putting Garrison on the same path as Trump.
Obama Lied
Following the contentious 2008 election, “South Park” decided to have some fun, depicting Barack Obama and John McCain as pals plotting an “Ocean’s Eleven”-esque heist. This post-election episode is harsher toward the candidates’ supporters. Conservatives act like McCain’s loss is the end of the country while liberals believe all of their problems are over now that Obama is in charge. That said, the Randys of the world might’ve had unrealistic expectations for Obama. This is reflected the following morning when Randy wakes up to find his life in ruins. Rather than take responsibility for his actions, Randy blames Obama for “lying” with his hopeful message. Cartman shares the same feelings several episodes later, claiming Obama still hasn’t brought the change he promised.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
The 2016 Election Results
Stone and Parker expected Hillary Clinton to win the 2016 presidential election. As such, they planned an episode that would’ve seen Bill Clinton become the First Gentleman. They still managed to work elements of their original idea into the post-election episode, including a duet between Clinton and another Bill. Since Hillary didn’t win as anticipated, though, they had to rework the episode with Garrison becoming the 45th. It captures much of the shock and fear many experienced when Trump won. With the member berries taking their toll, Garrison goes full Darth Vader in the following episode. As absolute power is handed over, Garrison asserts that you don’t want to be on this president’s bad side. Good thing “South Park” is just a satire, right?
What’s your favorite presidential parody on “South Park?” Let us know in the comments.
Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re looking at instances where “South Park” took on the President of the United States, reminding POTUS that everyone is fair game.
Bill Clinton’s Sex Life
Clinton’s second term was underway when “South Park” debuted in 1997. Not long after the Clinton–Lewinsky scandal started making headlines the following year, “South Park” commented on the president’s reported adultery by having Liane Cartman sleep her way into the White House. Even well after Clinton’s presidency ended, he wasn’t immune to mockery. In the Season 14 premiere, Clinton finds himself in a rehabilitation class with Tiger Woods, David Letterman, and several others who got caught in sex scandals. When asked how he ended up here, Clinton gives a graphic answer involving cigars. He also asks a demeaning question about Kyle’s mom. Clinton’s comments might be crude, although Obama is working behind the scenes to ensure women don’t learn the truth about men.
George W. Bush’s Intelligence
Compared to some other shows at the time, “South Park” didn’t regularly demonize George W. Bush. That’s not to say he got off with a slap on the wrist. Addressing the United Nations General Assembly, Bush shares intel that Saddam Hussein is making weapons of mass destruction… in Heaven. The others naturally have more than a few questions. Namely, how did Saddam get into the Good Place? In a humorous callback to a Season 4 two-parter, Bush reveals how Saddam’s bad breakup with Satan got him kicked out of Hell. Although everything Bush says is true - in the show’s canon at least - his explanation raises another question: is the president stupid or smoking something? Bush denies the latter. The stupid part, however…
Rallying
“South Park” fans sometimes forget Donald Trump briefly popped up in Season 5. Once Trump got serious about running for office years later, the creators chose to use Garrison as a stand-in. After Trump lost the 2020 election to Joe Biden, Garrison resumed civilian life. It appeared that would be the end of Garrison’s political career until Trump announced in 2022 that he was staging a 2024 comeback. Garrison thus falls back into an old habit: rallying. Despite telling boyfriend Rick that their trip to Myrtle Beach is just a getaway, it isn’t long until Garrison is badmouthing Mexicans and Biden with partygoing followers. The episode leaves Garrison on an ambiguous note, but let’s just say the rally animal does take Georgia and Arizona.
Barack Obama Takes The Credit
With the economy struggling, the people of South Park act as if their god has forsaken them. To restore order and sanity, Kyle makes the ultimate sacrifice: paying off the debts of everyone in town. It’s probably in vain, as people like Randy are inclined to make more excessive purchases that’ll inevitably lead to another recession. But hey, at least Kyle is recognized for his selfless actions, right? It appears so as a new anchor champions the leader who pulled America out of this bleak era… President Barack Obama. Whether or not you voted for Obama, there’s no denying that most news outlets showed him favoritism. This frustrates Kyle, whose noble gesture is ultimately overshadowed by a politician eager to accept the praise.
A Turd Candidate
With the 2004 presidential election around the corner, every American was asked, “Bush or Kerry?” Matt Stone and Trey Parker had another question on their minds: “Douche or Turd?” It didn’t make a difference to Stone or Parker with the latter saying that he “despised them both.” The creators expressed why they just didn’t care about the election’s outcome in this episode where South Park Elementary must choose between two less-than-flattering mascots. While neither George W. Bush nor John Kerry is directly mentioned, it’s clear who the creators are throwing shade at. The question is, “Which mascot is supposed to represent Bush?” Our money is on the fecal matter, even though Turd Sandwich loses the election while Bush won his second term.
Don’t Forget to Vote
Desperately wanting to end the 2020 pandemic, Stan calls his old teacher-turned-president for help. Garrison has no interest in stopping COVID’s spread, however. As far as the president is concerned, the virus has fulfilled a campaign promise regarding Mexicans. If it gets rid of other people along the way too, so be it. Taking matters into his own hands, Stan seemingly finds the path to a cure, even convincing Cartman to do what’s best for humanity. Unfortunately, he can’t appeal to Garrison, who takes a flamethrower to their last hope. Garrison parts with a reminder to vote in November. We’re not sure if that’s an endorsement for Biden, but it seems to sum up what Parker and Stone thought of Trump’s first term.
Spreading Fake Conspiracies
As Cartman ignites conspiracy theories about 9/11, Kyle sets out to uncover the truth. Kyle and Stan do discover a conspiracy with George W. Bush at the center. It turns out to be a conspiracy within a conspiracy, however. None of the conspiracies are true, but if citizens naively buy into whatever they read online, Bush figures the government might as well feed into them. It just makes the people in charge seem more powerful than they truly are. This episode aged surprisingly well, as many politicians - including presidents - have become infamous for spreading baseless conspiracy theories and misinformation. Whether or not these politicians actually believe the fake news being shared, they’re using conspiracy theories to manipulate the public.
Canadian Trump
Not wanting to give Trump the “satisfaction” of being on “South Park,” the show introduced a Canadian equivalent in a 2015 episode. The Canadian President’s rise to power eerily foreshadowed Trump’s presidential victory the following year. His wall can’t keep out Garrison, who removes the president from office in a very Garrison way. Although one brash politician has been thwarted, another arises in the form of Garrison with Caitlyn Jenner as a running mate. Like Canada, America fails to pay attention as Garrison heads for the White House. Even Garrison begins to realize that this has gone further than it ever should’ve, attempting to nip it in the bud. Hillary Clinton doesn’t make it easy, putting Garrison on the same path as Trump.
Obama Lied
Following the contentious 2008 election, “South Park” decided to have some fun, depicting Barack Obama and John McCain as pals plotting an “Ocean’s Eleven”-esque heist. This post-election episode is harsher toward the candidates’ supporters. Conservatives act like McCain’s loss is the end of the country while liberals believe all of their problems are over now that Obama is in charge. That said, the Randys of the world might’ve had unrealistic expectations for Obama. This is reflected the following morning when Randy wakes up to find his life in ruins. Rather than take responsibility for his actions, Randy blames Obama for “lying” with his hopeful message. Cartman shares the same feelings several episodes later, claiming Obama still hasn’t brought the change he promised.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
Garrison’s Advisors
It’s Cute the Right Thought They Were the Ones in ControlTelling Off Clinton
Well, It’s Not the Meanest Thing Someone’s Said to BillGarrison’s Tweets
Has Tweek Always Been the Most Relatable Character?Obama Makes a Deal with China
These Elections Keep Connecting to “Star Wars” SomehowGarrison as Pennywise
When You See a Clown, RunThe 2016 Election Results
Stone and Parker expected Hillary Clinton to win the 2016 presidential election. As such, they planned an episode that would’ve seen Bill Clinton become the First Gentleman. They still managed to work elements of their original idea into the post-election episode, including a duet between Clinton and another Bill. Since Hillary didn’t win as anticipated, though, they had to rework the episode with Garrison becoming the 45th. It captures much of the shock and fear many experienced when Trump won. With the member berries taking their toll, Garrison goes full Darth Vader in the following episode. As absolute power is handed over, Garrison asserts that you don’t want to be on this president’s bad side. Good thing “South Park” is just a satire, right?
What’s your favorite presidential parody on “South Park?” Let us know in the comments.
