Budweiser is preparing for an all-American summer. (via Flickr)

No, this isn’t a joke, but prepare yourself for a slew of patriotic jokes: Anheuser-Busch announced Tuesday that its iconic beer, Budweiser, is getting a name change in anticipation of the “Most Patriotic Summer Ever.” The press release states:

The brand is also modifying Budweiser’s iconic label to add copy that is central to American history, including phrases from the Pledge of Allegiance and lyrics from “The Star Spangled Banner” and “America the Beautiful.” On shelves nationwide from May 23 through the election in November, these cans and bottles aim to inspire drinkers to celebrate America and Budweiser’s shared values of freedom and authenticity. …

“We are embarking on what should be the most patriotic summer that this generation has ever seen, with Copa America Centenario being held on U.S. soil for the first time, Team USA competing at the Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” said Ricardo Marques, vice president, Budweiser. “Budweiser has always strived to embody America in a bottle, and we’re honored to salute this great nation where our beer has been passionately brewed for the past 140 years.”

The New York Times notes that Budweiser, which has been brewed in St. Louis since the 19th century, is a top-selling U.S. beer. It also raises a question on many peoples’ minds:

When a thirsty American goes to the store looking for Budweiser, would he or she be confused upon encountering America instead?

“We have no doubt that consumers will recognize it in a heartbeat,” Mr. Marques said.

The name change has already prompted a diverse set of reactions on Twitter, with many users celebrating the patriotism and pulling out their wallets in anticipation.

Other users were not so thrilled. Remarks ranged from catty comments to serious insults:

Just like America the country, “America” the beer will most likely be enjoyed solely by the smallest percentage of people.

–Posted by Emma Niles

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#2016 election#america#beer#budweiser#nationalism#patriotism#politics#xenophobia