thoughtcrumbs

Speaking of running for president

The protagonist of the book I'm reading has strong feelings about running for president. Though he's Harvard-educated, a war hero, and charming, he has fundamental issues with the job requirements:

Deep in my heart I really did not want to be president of the United States. If you pay a certain amount that varies according to his political fortunes, you get to stand next to the president and have your picture taken, and he has to smile. The only other being that I have known who is paid to stand next to you as your picture is taken was a chimpanzee on the Boardwalk at Coney Island. His name was Tony, and he smiled only if he liked you.