Absolut campaign sparks controversy

LOS ANGELES, April 6 (UPI) -- A new marketing campaign for the Swedish vodka Absolut that shows California as part of Mexico has sparked a growing controversy.

The (Sweden) Local reported Saturday the new "In an Absolut World" campaign shows a map of 1848 America, when Mexico still controlled California, and at least one online blogger has taken offense to the marketing effort in Mexico.

"Absolut is pandering to ignorance, historical illiteracy and Mexican national chauvinism. I'll never drink Absolut again," said a blogger who identified himself only as Ted.

Absolut spokesman Jeffrey Moran assured such concerned consumers that the controversial advertisements will not run in the United States. The New York-based spokesman also denied any claims the marketing effort was indicative of the greater debate over immigration issues taking place in the United States.

"This ad certainly has nothing to do with immigration issue or anti-Mexican sentiment. It's based on a historical perspective on what Mexico once was. That's all," Moran said.