Decision 2016 trading cards have look of landmark release

Politicians have appeared on cardboard since the earliest years of trading cards — you know, in packs of cigarettes back in the 1800s — and they’ve appeared in countless non-sports, war and even sports sets of the last 30-plus years as collecting emerged upon the national psyche and flourished as part of the pop culture landscape.

But the new Decision 2016 trading cards arriving this week include something that we haven’t yet seen in a political release — the chance at autographs and more advanced “hit” cards along with a healthy amount of traditional cardboard.

In the midst of one of the most-tumultous political seasons in years, this is a product that offers a promising start for a perhaps-expanding trading card genre of its own — and the potential for something more.

It already appears to be a landmark release, but don’t just take Buzz’s word for it.

“The idea of a set that captures that drama of an election – that is compelling,” said Rick Klein, who is ABC News’ Political Director and also a long-time baseball card collector. “I feel like it’s something that could start as a novelty project but catch on. You’d be surprised by how many political junkies are also collectors. People love pins, hats, signs. I’ve seen autograph-seekers at obscure conferences for senators most people could never name.”

Politicians’ official websites hock memorabilia for their biggest fans

This year’s presidential race is one that’s gotten plenty of attention for arguably all the wrong reasons, but no matter which way you lean there’s plenty of potential memorabilia if that’s your type of thing. (Buzz isn’t all that interested but knows some of you inevitably will be, so here we are.)

How?

On the candidates’ official websites. That’s where you’ll find coloring books, ugly sweaters, barbecue gear, caps, shirts, and, of course, plenty of signs and buttons. You’ll find koozies, calendars, all kinds of stuff … and even water bottles. (Some sell anti-competitor items, too, but it might not be who you think taking that approach.) The costs are sometimes low — but often not — and, interestingly, only one of the five candidates, Ted Cruz, sells actual autographed items. (The poster above? That’s $55, though there’s no note of its size.)

Keep reading for a look at some of the odd, creative and readily available items found on official stores for Bernie Sanders, Hillary Clinton, Donald Trump, Marco Rubio, Ted Cruz and John Kasich.

New Hampshire Primary spawns new batch of Garbage Pail Kids

On the heels of a re-release of the politicians cards in this year’s Garbage Pail Kids set for the Iowa Primary, Topps has created a set of new GPK cards only available for a limited time coinciding with the New Hampshire Primary.

Why? People love their politicians — or ripping on them.

A new batch of nine pairs of card-size stickers, as well as a full set, are initially available for 24 hours only via Topps.com.  Who’s in it? Keep reading …