Meet The “Bindi”

What is a “bindi?”

Well, if you’re a S.C. Republican Primary voter, chances are you’re going to find out soon enough.

First, let’s get the definitions out of the way.

A “bindi” is a forehead decoration worn by women and young girls in many Southeastern Asian cultures, particularly Indian women. Oh – and by rock stars like Gwen Stefani, Shakira and Madonna.

What does it symoblize?

Well, according to some religions, the area between the eyes is the seat of “concealed wisdom,” and placing a bindi there prevents that wisdom from escaping and wards off demons and bad luck.

But will it “ward off” anonymous political attacks from unscrupulous rivals in a Republican gubernatorial primary?

S.C. Rep. Nikki Haley is about to find out.

Already the butt of a racially-charged joke allegedly told by former S.C. Democratic Party Chairman Dick Harpootlian, Haley – who is Indian-American – has reportedly been photographed sporting a “bindi.”

What’s wrong with that?

Nothing, obviously, but sources close to Haley’s rival campaigns have told FITS that they are in possession of copies of these photographs, which they plan on distributing anonymously to GOP primary voters.

The goal of such an effort?

To frighten white evangelical voters, obviously,  while simultaneously reinforcing the fact that Haley is “different” from the five white men who have announced or are expected to announce their candidacies for the GOP gubernatorial nod.

Will it work?

Possibly, although similar efforts to smear Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal two years ago were unsuccessful.

Haley’s campaign declined to comment yesterday when we asked them about the joke attributed by sources to Harpootlian, but how they handle this line of attack will be very interesting to watch in the months ahead.

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