Seems like a niche initiative to use right wing, working class idols to promote socialist ideals. My guess is the intent is the target market is more likely to read the meme and view it in a positive manner when paired with someone they respect instead of, say, Einstein or MLK Jr.

[–] Unanimous_anonymous@lemmy.ml 2 points 10 months ago (1 children)

I assumed it was to sarcastically "twist" there idols. Kind of like the "Jesus being a dick" memes.

[–] runner_g@lemmy.blahaj.zone 3 points 10 months ago

Supply side Jesus!

[–] BingoBangoBongo@midwest.social 1 points 10 months ago

Originated with a face book page "the ol' ghost of dale earnhardt" supposedly. Some guy trying to turn dale into a progressive icon.

[–] AFallingAnvil@lemmy.ca 4 points 10 months ago

I asked this a little while back (and posted this previously), so I'll pass along the answer: because Nascar is typically not associated with these leftist political leanings, and by association of new ideas with familiar imagery you might gently help someone become more open to considering these notions in good faith instead of a knee jerk reaction against it.

It's honestly pretty clever, and if it helps these ideas find new homes in communities they weren't always welcome in then I'd say it's worth it.

[–] instamat@lemmy.world 3 points 10 months ago

I think it’s the irony. A photo of a guy who drives around an oval for a living criticizing capitalism is an unusual choice.