In several major areas of Canada, a recent survey by Harris/Decima reveals that more citizens were able to identify a picture of Super Mario over a picture of their own Canadian prime minister, Stephen Harper. In Toronto, Calgary, and Halifax, for example, about 47% of the people could identify Mario compared to 41% that could recognize Harper. Nintendo of Canada’s GM, Ron Bertram, responds:
“Canadian politicians are lucky Mario doesn’t have his Canadian citizenship and could campaign for office. It’s no surprise that Mario is more recognized than high-profile politicians: he’s entertained generations of Canadians and inspires only happy thoughts. Super Mario Galaxy for Wii will further boost Mario’s stature in Canada. Moms and dads will have some great Mario fun alongside their kids.”
Here in America, it’s hard to say who’s better known. I mean, everyone in the world knows Bush. But, as Bertram points out, Mario inspires only happy thoughts.
