During the Vice Presidential debate in 2020, a surprising creature appeared on screen and interrupted Mike Pence. Mike Pence was so into his argument that he did not notice a fly inching across his white hair. Viewers quickly noticed the fly which started chaos across social media.

Since the younger generation on social media seems to target Trump and Pence, it was easy for this event to turn into a viral meme. Individuals were posting pictures of the fly on Pence’s head on all social media platforms. People were not surprised about the fly appearing on the screen; instead, they poked fun at the fly and created many memes about it.

The meme displayed on the left shows sleepy Mike Pence paired with the fly speaking at the national debate. Pence’s head is even enlarged to make it more humorous. Memes like these were circulated on almost every social media platform. Videos and photos displaying the fly were posted for months after the event even happened.

Not only did the fly cause hundreds of memes to be created, but Biden’s campaign even created fly swatters mocking Mike Pence. The fly swatter was created seconds after the event, which contributed to the memes. The fly swatter is blue, taking after the Democratic party theme, and has the quote “Truth over Flies” printed across the handle. Celebrities like Kerry Washington reposted the picture of the swatter and wrote “Just ordered mine!!!!!! #VPDebate.” Not only were fly swatters made, but shirts, mugs, and hats made by supporters were sold to people nationwide.

It is insane to me how individuals can make one event turn into an internet meme that gets spread worldwide. I personally have seen these memes all over my social media feeds, and my own friends have even reposted them and created some of their own. I enjoy looking at these memes because they poke fun at serious topics. It is also very easy for me to understand them since it is all based on humor. Memes make it easy for the average individual to understand an event through a picture and a short caption. In politics, they make serious situations light-hearted and funny.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2020/10/08/fly-pence-head-vp-debate-biden-harris-campaign-fly-swatters/5927281002/