Glimpse into "Mind of Mencia"

Comic Carlos Mencia has scored notice for his sketch show, "Mind of Mencia," which has been a staple on Comedy Central since 2005. Mencia, 40, who often cracks wise about race and culture, has garnered a great deal of attention for allegedly plagiarizing material. Fellow comic Joe Rogan calls Mencia "Carlos Menstealia."

Mencia, who will perform Saturday at the Paramount Theatre, talks candidly about the election, the accusations against him and what he might do next.

Q: How frustrating is this presidential election for a comic, since it's difficult to joke about most of the candidates?

A: It's interesting that some candidates are off-limits. Sarah Palin is a female, so she gets a break. John McCain is untouchable since he's a war veteran, and Barack Obama is untouchable since he's black. The only person you can really make fun of is Joe Biden, since he's an old rickety white guy. That's not as much fun as it could be.

Q: What was your reaction when Joe Rogan first called you "Carlos Menstealia?"

A: At first it was hurtful. I took it personally. I couldn't believe that anyone would question my intentions, especially when you look at my comedy. It's so personal. I get ticked off and scream about what I see, not what someone else sees. But I'm beyond it. When you become famous or popular, different rules apply. You're a target. But I'm all right with it because I know my comedy is mine, no matter what anyone says.

Q: Have you ever talked to Dane Cook, who has also been accused of lifting material, about the accusations?

A: I've talked to Dane about it. We laugh and kid about it. I'll say, "Hey, I think that one joke you stole," and he'll say, "I think you stole the whole act." I'll say, "What are you going to take tonight?" He knows exactly what I went through. We rise above it. What other choice do we have?

Q: How much longer can you do "Mind of Mencia"?

A: I don't know. I love doing the sketches, but how much longer can I do it? I'm not sure what I'll do next, but it will challenge me.