This is a funny, cheeky shot, that I'm sure not everyone appreciated. What I do not understand though, is that while you chose a slightly controversial subject, but then only implement is half heartedly. Why not give us the full finger? I know I would respect you more for it :P
I like the lighting from the side, although I think it might have been better if you lighted 'the finger' only from the left, to give it more depth. It's a bit two dimensional now.
The slight twist in the center frame was a good idea. It unbalances the photo, holding the interest a bit longer.
In the end I think the image is just not 'wow' enough for the DPC voters to give it high marks. That and I'm sure that you offended a few of them as well.