The final week before the election means two things: Our long national nightmare is almost over — and Halloween is here. We’ll no doubt see plenty of Donald Trumps and Hillary Clintons at parties around the country this weekend, but for those of you who don’t want to pack on pounds of bronzer or rock a blonde wig and fake smile, here’s a list of the best worst political Halloween costumes of 2016.
1. Ted Cruz
After the Republican primary campaign, rumors of being the Zodiac Killer, and his initial refusal to endorse Trump — only to end up in the Republican nominee phone bank — Ted Cruz is sure to be a hit. Luckily, several online sites have Cruz masks for you to buy. Be sure to include the disappointed look of defeat and a political sticker that says “Lyin’ Ted” to complete the look.
2. Sarah Palin
Sarah Palin is a classic who’s always sure to get a good laugh. Her Donald Trump endorsement brought her back to the political stage, albeit temporarily. Dressing up as Palin has been made easy with this kit that contains a wig, glasses and political buttons.
3. Bernie Sanders
Millennials everywhere began to “Feel the Bern” last year, and you too by dressing up as the man himself. With this oversized mask, you can be Vermont’s senator in no time.
But if masks aren’t your thing, no worries: You can always try this old man wig with a suit to rock that classic Sanders look — just don’t forget to talk with a loud Brooklyn accent and call for the political revolution college students dream of.
4. Joe Biden
Classic Uncle Joe: Obama’s right-hand man and everyone’s favorite smiling vice president. Be sure to complement your Biden mask with denouncements of “malarkey” and occasionally sticking your foot in your mouth.
5. Chris Christie
Who can forget the pure horror on Chris Christie’s face as he stood behind Trump after endorsing him? That alone makes Chris Christie another Halloween go-to this year. A Christie mask is available and is sure to go with any suit.
6. Jeb Bush
Jeb Bush got lots of attention during the Republican primaries as Trump’s favorite person to pick on. Dress up as the man once thought to be the inevitable Republican nominee and tell everyone, “Please clap.”
7. Vladimir Putin
If you don’t feel like limiting yourself to American politicians, broaden your horizons with the 180-pound Russian gorilla in the room of this election. This mask found on Ebay is sure to give you that Putin look, just add the suit — or better yet, go shirtless and ride in on top of a horse.
8. Ken Bone
Everyone’s one-week obsession is the perfect option if you’re done with mainstream politicians this year. A sexy “undecided voter” costume quickly sold out, but you can DIY your own — just check your Reddit history first.
October surprise: Anthony Weiner
Anthony Weiner is always a guaranteed best-of-the-worst political costume winner, but Friday’s revelation that his sexting probe led the FBI to reopen its Hillary Clinton email investigation puts a new spin on an old classic. This costume was briefly available a few years ago, but unfortunately is no longer on sale. Recreate the look yourself with an undershirt and your favorite boxers.
