Emperor Palpatine has announced open elections for a new Emperor — and he’s nominated Darth Vader. You get to nominate one challenger.

Every now and then the internet throws out a wonderfully ridiculously geeky question.

This is one of those moments.

The Galactic Empire has decided to embrace democracy. (Yes, I know. Stay with me.) Emperor Palpatine has announced open elections for a new Emperor, and his chosen successor is none other than Darth Vader.

An intimidating candidate, certainly.

Strong leadership credentials.

Questionable HR record.

Now, my nomination?

It has to be Kal-El, better known to most people as Clark Kent or Superman.

Not because he is the strongest person in the room. Although that certainly helps.

Not because he could flatten the Death Star without breaking a sweat.

But because power has never really been what Superman is about.

He was raised by ordinary people who taught him kindness over cruelty, compassion over conquest, and responsibility over personal gain. Despite possessing the ability to rule through fear, he consistently chooses service instead.

That, to me, is what makes a leader.

Imagine the campaign posters now…

Superman/Wayne ’28

Bruce Wayne handling the economy.

Clark Kent reminding everyone that saving people still matters.

Alfred quietly running the entire administration while pretending he is “just making tea.”

Meanwhile, poor Darth Vader would be trying to explain why force-choking political opponents should still count as a legitimate debate tactic.

Mind you…

There is one rather awkward elephant standing in the polling station.

Dr. Manhattan.

Technically speaking, if he decided he wanted the job, elections would become something of a formality.

When you perceive time all at once, reconstruct yourself atom by atom, and possess abilities bordering on outright divinity, democracy starts looking more like a courtesy than a necessity.

Thankfully, unlike Palpatine, Dr. Manhattan has never seemed particularly interested in governing anyone. Which is probably fortunate for everyone involved.

So yes.

My vote goes to Superman.

Because sometimes the strongest leader is simply the one who still believes people are worth saving.

Stay safe,

Bc