House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) read a bedtime story to Americans Friday night. He chose Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss.
McCarthy began reading the book with perhaps an undiscovered appreciation for the art of storytelling: “I am Sam. I am Sam. Sam I am.”
“That Sam-I-am! That Sam-I-am! I do not like that Sam-I-am!” he read aloud for cameras to record.
McCarthy’s reading of Green Eggs and Ham comes amid a newly developing tradition of American leaders who have read the book allowed for audiences spanning the time of modern history.
Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) tried his hand years ago from the Senate floor. “I love this story, so I’m going to read it to you,” Cruz said before beginning.
“Sam I am. That Sam-I-am! That Sam-I-am! I do not like that Sam-I-am!” he read aloud.
Another reading of Green Eggs and Ham comes from Jesse Jackson, the political activist, Baptist minister, and politician, on Saturday Night Live.
“According to the Latter-day Saints Seuss,” he prefaces like a preacher man. “You do not like green eggs and ham. I do not like them Sam-I-am.”
Former President Obama gave his best effort in a sunny garden with his wife and family quietly listening.
Even the San Bernardino County Fire Department has taken part.
Green Eggs and Ham has even infiltrated the sports world. In August of 2020, Dwight Lowery of the NFL and Brian Rowe of the MLS read aloud, “I am Sam. I am Sam. Sam I am.”