>So why has it persisted? Ms. Preseau has a theory: “Americans love to show off their language skills, however basic, and this myth gives people an excuse to do so.”

Silly fun facts are fun.

Talking about a politician making himself seem silly is also fun.

It has tons of appeal.

He was lucky that it wasn’t Hamburg. Or Wien (Vienna). ;)

or Frankfurt or Weisenheim.

or Toad Suck