RNC launches ‘Obama’s Chicago Network’

Republicans have turned to satire and the new media to expose what they see as the persistent and corrosive role of Chicago-style politics in President Obama’s administration.

The Republican National Committee on Tuesday launched a website for the mock “Obama’s Chicago Network: It’s not TV, it’s reality.”

“If you think it’s hot outside, just wait until you see this summer’s lineup on the Obama Chicago Network,” says the voiceover on the accompanying video. Among the shows featured on the mock network is “Dancing with the Law,” a takeoff of the popular ABC reality show “Dancing with the Stars.”

“You knew he had a way with words, but wait until you see Robert Gibbs dance this week,” says the voiceover as an animated version of the White House spokesman dances around what appears to be a copy of the Constitution — an obvious take on Mr. Gibbs saying the administration broke no laws in offering Rep. Joe Sestak a job to drop out of the midterms.

Another mock show is “I’m a Politician, Get Me Out of Here,” intended to highlight recently revelations that administration Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel, then an Illinois congressman, appeared to attempt to trade favors with Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich when he was in office, according to newly disclosed e-mails obtained by the Associated Press.

“Get ready for the most outrageous reality show on TV … starring Rod Blagojevich,” says the voiceover before a caricature of Mr. Emanuel appears.

“When you add the new guy to the gang, you know there will be drama,” says the voiceover.

Doug Heye, Republican National Committee spokesman, said the new site follows a series of successful, new media and interactive campaigns including one launched after the Democrat-controlled Congress passed the multibillion-dollar health care reform.

The firenancypelosi.com site raised more than $1.5 million in about a week, he said.

“We’re trying to capture people’s attentions,” he said. “The administration is not taking seriously the challenges we face.”