John Bordieri, also known as the “calamari ninja,” may not be making a comeback at the upcoming Democratic National Convention as he has not heard from state or national leaders about participating in the event. Bordieri, who gained attention for his silent appearance holding a platter of calamari during the last convention, revealed that he is actually a supporter of former President Donald Trump and plans to vote for him in the upcoming election. The convention organizers have announced plans to nominate Joe Biden virtually before the in-person event begins, in order to meet an early ballot deadline set by Republican-controlled Ohio.
Despite the virtual roll call, the convention in Chicago will still feature an in-person nominating process. The coronavirus pandemic has prompted a reevaluation of using virtual content to modernize traditional political norms. While no programming decisions have been made regarding this year’s convention, organizers aim to showcase how President Biden and Democrats are delivering for Americans and lay out a vision for the future. Rhode Island Democratic Party Chair Liz Beretta-Perik did not respond to questions about Bordieri’s potential involvement in this year’s convention.
Bordieri, who is open to doing a video contribution similar to his 2020 appearance, is planning to be on vacation during the convention and has no travel plans except for attending a concert in suburban Boston. The 2020 convention saw Rhode Island highlighting its fishing industry through calamari, emphasizing innovative ways to boost sales during the pandemic. Bordieri’s appearance holding calamari with garlic, parsley, and cherry peppers quickly went viral, leading to a surge in calamari sales at Iggy’s Boardwalk restaurant, where he is an executive chef.
Following his appearance as the calamari ninja, Bordieri garnered widespread attention, trending online and receiving numerous calls from reporters, TV, newspapers, and radio. His popularity has since subsided, but he is still known as the calamari ninja by a few close friends. The crispy snack remains popular at Iggy’s locations in Rhode Island, selling around 400 pounds per week. Bordieri’s unexpected rise to fame has left him amused and slightly embarrassed by the attention he received. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his participation in this year’s Democratic National Convention, his impact as the calamari ninja continues to be remembered by many.
