In the spirit of its Ms. Dewey experiment, Microsoft has launched a new site, Left vs. Right, which pits opponents from two sides of the political spectrum. Left-leaning “Patrick O’Neil” and right-wing “Britt Hayes” trade barbs about each other’s hygiene, political views, and intelligence.
As with Ms. Dewey, when a user does not type anything into the search box, the characters wait patiently for a while and then will begin a new skit. When a user types in a keyword or question about certain issues, the two characters will share a humorous exchange about the topic.
Microsoft is also promoting the site with a snarky ad campaign. The press release from the right leads off, “Hybrid-hugging liberals beware. Conservative truth is on the march.” The release from the left asks, “Is Dick Cheney planning on shooting you?