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As discussed before any time there's an event that stirs the nation trademark applications follow. Nowhere is this more obvious than during an election season.

Not surprisingly, most of the presidential-themed filings revolve around Obama. And even less surprisingly, the USPTO is refusing registration. It is assumed that most of these applicants are in no way affiliated with the famous men mentioned so they will all likely receive the following message:

Let's take a look at a few...

On January 21, The Gervasio Group filed for It's Rmoney! Vote Romney! for 4 different classes. Since the applicant filed a TEAS PLUS form that means this filing cost $1100. Eesh, ouch. I'm not finding much about this company other than their Nevada filing so who knows? Maybe they are affiliated with Romney but I'm placing my bets on that they'll be getting an Office Action refusal.

A few days later, Daniel Sladek filed for No Newt is Good Newt for 2 different classes. First, I'm loving the connection to Gary Gnu that's implied in this mark. Second, I'm afraid Mr. Sladek is also going to receive a "false connection" refusal.

Two applicants (out of many!) that are familiar with that dreaded response from the USPTO are You Can Say What You Want About Obama, But He Got Osama and Ron Paul Speaks the Truth.

So I think the overall lesson here is that if you are not somehow DIRECTLY affiliated (i.e. you have permission) with a famous person, please think twice (and thrice and again) before filing for a trademark.

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