 Two new characters were introduced in this episode . The first , Nelson Muntz , remains a frequently used recurring character , while the second , Herman , has been used far less . The design of Herman , with the exception of his missing arm , was inspired by writer John Swartzwelder . His voice , as performed by Harry Shearer , was partly inspired by George H. W. Bush . The original idea for Herman was for him to have a differing story for the loss of his arm with every appearance . 
