Birther billboard.
Enlarge David Zalubowski/AP Photo

It's hard to see how a controversial billboard like this would be a sound business move.

Birther billboard.
David Zalubowski/AP Photo

It's hard to see how a controversial billboard like this would be a sound business move.

With the economy being what it is, you would think a business as consumer dependent as one that sells and leases cars, trucks and boats would be reluctant to offend any potential customers by stirring up political and racial controversy.

But that apparently isn't the case with some businesses, like Wolf Wheat Ridge Interstate Leasing and Sales in Wheat Ridge, Colo. outside Denver. There's a "birther" billboard on the property which shows two caricatures of President Barack Obama, one with him wearing a turban with the word "jihad" next to it. The words "Birth Certificate. Prove It!" appear prominently on the sign. The sign's kicker is "Wake Up America! Remember Ft. Hood."

The Associated Press reports:

General Manager Wayne Means says the dealership has seen strong opinions about the sign, both for and against it. The left-leaning advocacy group MoveOn.org called the billboard "racist" and is asking customers to boycott the business.

Dealership owner Phil Wolf was unavailable for comment.

Again, it really seems like a dubious business move to antagonize potential customers, especially when they're so hard to come by these days. But maybe Wolf has all the customers he wants or needs.