Saw this on The Week about bands suing politicians for using their songs without permission. Apparently libertarian Ron Paul has been blasting Rush songs at his rallies without first obtaining the rights. And he’s not the first. There’s a long string of recent incidents, including a whole bunch by repeat offender John McCain, who used unlicensed songs in TV commercials as well as at rallies. Really, is this such a difficult concept to get? No stealing!

Neat point for any law geeks out there – these suits raise two legal arguments. First, of course, copyright infringement, but also a Trademark claim of False Association or Endorsement, because it damages the band’s brand to be seen as endorsing someone they don’t.

-Michelle