[whoopdedo]

It'll be interesting to watch the evolution of this meme as it grows. As Matt says, it started as a blank slate. Pepe was not exclusively used by /pol/ and the alt-right. But now I wonder if the attention being drawn to it now might fixate the meme to the political implications. Will Pepe continue to be the blank slate it once was? If it does then it shows how internet memes are inherently uncontrollable. But on the other hand, this accidental relationship with a particular ideology could cause Pepe to fall out of favor with people who want to avoid that association. That would demonstrate how the influence of mainstream media can direct and distort public opinion.

I suppose the third alternative is that for a short time Pepe will be stuck with the right-wing implications. Then later on will see a revival after the memory of today's events fades. Mainstream media will win the battle, but the anonymous masses win the war.