Inexplicably, the capital city of Illinois surrendered to Cobra, the terrorist organization from the G.I. Joe entertainment franchise. Why? Did Cobra Commander have dirt on Mayor J. Michael Houston? Did he offer Houston greater power after Cobra's conquest of the Midwest?
Officially, Mayor Houston gave Cobra Commander the key to the city in order to welcome visitors to G.I. Joecon, a fan convention assembling in Springfield from April 9-12. Still, this seems like a drastic and short-sighted move to get tourism dollars.
It does, however, speak well of Cobra Commander's leadership. In the past, he's failed in one violent venture after another. Perhaps he has learned that victory lies not in naked force, but by subverting pre-existing political structures. The press release quotes Cobra Commander demonstrating his now more conciliatory approach:
Springfielders near and far, I accept your Mayor’s generous gift. And let it be known that I too bring a gift for every man, woman and child of this city that is so near and dear to my heart; an invitation to join with me. Join Cobra!”
-via io9
Springfield, Illinois Gives Cobra Commander the Key to the City
