“Barack Obama” Runs for California Governor: What’s the Story?

The name “Obama” is set to return to California’s political stage, as a candidate who legally changed his name in honor of former President Barack Obama joins the state’s gubernatorial primary.

Barack D. Obama Shaw is one of more than 60 candidates in the primary election scheduled this week. Campaign records show Shaw legally changed his name over a decade ago while serving in the U.S. Army Reserve between 2008 and 2016. His original name was Cecil Shaw III.

Speaking to Spectrum News, Shaw explained: “When I stood ready for the military salute with his (Barack Obama’s) picture on the wall, I felt proud. He proved that someone like me could become president.” On his campaign website, Shaw noted that his admiration for the former Democratic president stems from “the hope he brought to the world,” describing Obama as the “catalyst” for his decision to change his name, aiming to inspire voters with the same sense of hope today.

Shaw is active in his local community in Alameda, where he runs a talent program and teaches music to children. His campaign focuses on tackling the homelessness crisis, building new housing units, and reducing unnecessary government spending.

Polls show Obama Shaw trailing far behind leading candidates, including billionaire climate activist Tom Steyer and U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra. Despite this, Shaw has vowed to continue participating in upcoming elections under the same name.

“Barack Obama is the superhero, and I’m the man wearing his suit,” Shaw declared. “I’ve had the honor of carrying this banner.”