Controversial Label Resurfaces: Tom Bihn's Message on Presidential Idiocy

A label stitched into a bag produced by American manufacturer Tom Bihn has gained renewed attention online, featuring a message that refers to a “president” as an “idiot.” The post, shared by user @writtenbymeaghan on Threads, has garnered over 87,000 views since its publication on February 12, 2025. The label, which includes care instructions in French, concludes with the statement: “NOUS SOMMES DÉSOLÉS QUE NOTRE PRÉSIDENT SOIT UN IDIOT. NOUS N'AVONS PAS VOTÉ POUR LUI,” translating to “We are sorry that our president is an idiot. We didn’t vote for him.”

Newsweek

The controversial label is not a recent creation; it was produced in 2004 and has circulated on social media for years. Tom Bihn, based in Seattle, Washington, is known for manufacturing backpacks and travel bags. The company ships products internationally, which explains the use of French on the label. Tom Bihn, the founder, initially claimed he was unaware of the message's implications due to his limited French skills. He suggested that the label was likely intended as a joke about himself rather than a political statement, noting that the use of the word "idiot" alongside "president" led to broader interpretations.

Newsweek

Tom Bihn has commented on the label's unintended consequences, stating, “Clearly when you use the word ‘idiot’ and ‘president’ in the same sentence, people jump to other conclusions.” He further remarked, “People out there think a number of presidents are idiots,” indicating that the message could be interpreted in various ways depending on the viewer's perspective.

Newsweek

The resurfacing of the label has sparked discussions about its implications, particularly in the context of declining perceptions of the United States abroad. A Pew Research Center report from June 2025 highlighted that views of the U.S. have become more negative in several countries, with significant declines noted in Canada and Mexico. Critics may argue that the label reflects a broader sentiment of discontent with U.S. leadership, contributing to the negative image of the country internationally.

Newsweek

As the label gains traction online, Newsweek has reached out to both the original poster and Tom Bihn for comments. However, no official responses have been provided at this time.

Newsweek

The renewed interest in the label may prompt further discussions about American perceptions and the role of humor in political commentary. As the narrative unfolds, it remains to be seen how this incident will influence public discourse regarding U.S. leadership and international relations.

Newsweek

• “We are sorry that our president is an idiot. We didn’t vote for him.” — Tom Bihn, Founder of Tom Bihn

Newsweek

• “Clearly when you use the word ‘idiot’ and ‘president’ in the same sentence, people jump to other conclusions.” — Tom Bihn, Founder of Tom Bihn

Newsweek

• “People out there think a number of presidents are idiots,” — Tom Bihn, Founder of Tom Bihn

Newsweek