On Choosing Leaders

Every nation, every team, every group has a leader. Whether officially appointed or unofficially acknowledged, a leader is a necessary role that has to be filled in any group of more than one person. Think about it, even in groups of two, there's usually a leader and a follower. Leaders can be appointed by popular vote, perhaps like the flawed American voting system, or chosen by a single powerful influence, think a coach choosing a team captain. The title of leader can be passed down from a previous leader, or it can be a vacant position that is obtained by the candidate that demonstrates the best leadership qualities. I'm sure you understand what I'm getting at, so no matter how unpopular this may be, I've waited too long to finally come out and say this.

Who the hell do you think you are Tommy?

Seriously, what makes you think you can just show up, unproven, and assume leadership of one of the greatest teams of multi-cultural heroes of all time? Who the fuck made you the leader of the Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers?

Sorry, Tommy, but where were you during the first 15-plus episodes when Jason, the Red Ranger, and as far as I'm concerned the only leader of the Power Rangers was whooping Rita Repulsa's ass? Then, you have the nerve to not just waltz in and act like you're the new hot shit leader, but steal the Pink Ranger, Kimberly, from Jason? Where was Alpha-5 or Zordon when this was going on? Zordon's just going to let the leader he picked for his super team be supplanted by some new guy with a ponytail? Bull shit. And Tommy gets his own zord, the Dragonzord, which is the same size as the Megazord, the other 5 Rangers zords put together? Correct me if I'm wrong, but wasn't the Green Ranger even originally evil at first? What, everybody can just trust him now? Go to hell Tommy. You and that piccolo you play to call your obvious Godzilla rip-off out from international waters.

Look, don't get me wrong, I can appreciate the Green-slash-White Ranger. He allowed for some interesting story lines, and his inclusion allowed for less conflict when picking what color Ranger we were when fighting imaginary putty people. That meant I didn't have to fight as hard, if it all, to be the Red Ranger. I will acknowledge his vital existence in Power Rangers lore, but I will NEVER, accept him as the leader of my Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers.