First Daughter Dolls

Before becoming First Lady, Michelle Obama identified her top priority as shielding her young daughters from media scrutiny so they could continue living normal lives. And no wonder: the Obamas weren't finished unpacking their bags at the White House when Oak Brook, Ill.–based Ty Inc., the creators of Beanie Babies, announced a line of dolls that seemed inspired by Sasha, 8, and Malia, 11. While a Ty spokesman insisted the dolls — Sweet Sasha and Marvelous Malia — were so monikered because "they are beautiful names," the First Mom was not amused. The Obama camp released a statement arguing it was "inappropriate to use young private citizens for marketing purposes," prompting the chastened company to rename the toys.

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