BY HARVEY SCHMIDLAP l STAFF WRITER
April 10th, 2026
SLOWJAMASTAN — A growing debate is quietly stirring across the Republic: is Cactus Cooler officially the national drink of Slowjamastan, or has the title been assumed without formal decree?
The discussion gained new momentum following a recent CBS 8 San Diego feature by American reporter Jeff Zevely. During the segment, Zevely was seen sharing a Cactus Cooler with The Sultan inside Slowjamastan, a moment that has since drawn attention from both citizens and observers abroad.
While no official proclamation has been issued by the Ministry of Refreshment, many within the Republic have long regarded the citrus soda as the nation’s unofficial beverage. Its frequent presence at gatherings, events, and diplomatic encounters has only strengthened that perception.
Still, some officials suggest that “unofficial” status may no longer reflect reality.
“This is no longer a coincidence,” one source close to the Ministry noted. “When international media arrives and is immediately offered the same beverage enjoyed by our leadership, it suggests something deeper than preference. It suggests identity.”
The CBS segment has amplified that sentiment, positioning Cactus Cooler not just as a drink of choice, but as a symbol increasingly associated with the Slowjamastani experience.
Observe the full American CBS report here, for complete understanding of this highly refreshing development:
Analysts point out that Slowjamastan’s growing global profile — fueled by international media coverage and a rapidly expanding citizen base — presents a unique branding opportunity. With tens of thousands of registered citizens worldwide and continued exposure through outlets like CBS, the Republic has become an unexpected stage for cultural and commercial alignment.
This has led to speculation that a formal partnership between Slowjamastan and the makers of Cactus Cooler could be on the horizon.
“A designation of ‘Official National Beverage’ would not only formalize what already appears to be happening organically,” one observer said, “but would also create a mutually beneficial relationship between a globally recognized brand and a rapidly emerging micronational identity.”

For now, the Ministry has not confirmed any official change in status. However, the visibility of Cactus Cooler within the Republic — and now on international television — continues to blur the line between unofficial tradition and national symbol.
As one official put it:
“The people have embraced it. The media has documented it. The only thing left is recognition.”
Until then, the question remains open — but increasingly difficult to ignore.