Honing in on Homer
On July 27, the much anticipated “The Simpsons Movie” will premiere in theaters across America. As Yeas & Nays reported earlier this year, the movie is slated to unveil the state that has the rightful claim to the Simpsons’ hometown of Springfield.
Rep. Peter DeFazio lives in Springfield, Ore., which is often thought to be the actual Simpsons locale. Despite this high probability, his spokesman said DeFazio has a wait-and-see approach on the film.
“If it turns out in the movie that it is Springfield, Ore., then he will see it,” his spokesman said.
However, the town itself is much more enthusiastic. Oregon Gov. Ted Kulongoski encouraged all state residents to vote in a recent contest for their hometown to host the premiere of “The Simpsons Movie.”
“With ‘Simpsons’ creator Matt Groening a native Oregonian … I think it is clear that the Simpsons’ Springfield is Springfield, Ore.,” Kulongoski said.
The contest, hosted by USA Today, saw Springfield, Vt., triumph over 13 other Springfields.
Rep. David Wu also hails from Oregon, and he claims a “personal connection” with the show. “Michelle [Wu’s wife] grew up with the Groening family,” Wu’s spokesman said, referring to series creator Matt Groening. Considering his close ties, will he go see the movie to discover the location of Springfield?
“If it is age-appropriate for his kids, then he will go with his family. It will be a family event,” his spokesman said.
Rep. Tom Davis, who represents Springfield, Va., “is a busy man,” said his spokesman, and “will decide whether or not to see it when it comes out in theaters.”
