Lady Justice and the Candidate by Robert Thornhill

had spread quickly through the social media.
        Posts on Facebook and Twitter had quickly made Ben Foster a person of great interest among voters looking for a viable alternative to the two candidates that had been thrust upon them.
        When the Center was filled to capacity, Paul Ford took the podium and a hush fell in the huge auditorium.
        “Ladies and Gentlemen, I’m guessing that some of you are here just out of curiosity to see, in person, the man that is foolish enough to take on the two political machines that control our country, but I’m also guessing that many of you are here because you are dissatisfied with the choice of candidates that will be on the ballot in November and you’re desperately looking for a viable alternative.”
        A round of applause arose from the audience.
        “That’s why I’m here tonight too, and after you hear what this man has to say, I think you will find, as I did, that in November, there WILL be a candidate that is capable of leading this great nation.
        “Please welcome the next President of the United States, Benjamin Franklin Foster!”
        Ben took the stage and acknowledged the polite applause of his audience.
        “Thank you for coming tonight. Your presence here is proof that democracy is alive and well in Missouri.
        “You have had four long years to get to know the Democratic candidate and at least five months to know his Republican challenger, but most of you know absolutely nothing about me. I plan to change that tonight.
        “I think that the best way to get started is to tell you how I feel about this nation. When I look at America today, I compare it to that magnificent ocean-going vessel, the Titanic.
        “In its day, it was the largest and most eloquent passenger liner afloat and was sought after by the powerful and elite of the world. It was designed to be the last word in comfort and luxury, with an on-board gymnasium, swimming pool, libraries, high-class restaurants and opulent cabins.
        “Unfortunately, exactly a hundred years ago, the Captain of that ship steered into stormy seas and ultimately set a collision course that would sink the mighty vessel.
        “Like the Titanic, this country has been the most powerful and prosperous nation in the history of the world, but also, like the Titanic, the Captains of this great nation have set us on a collision course that will bring our country to its knees.
        “Within this analogy is both good news and bad news. The good news is that it is not too late to right the course and avert disaster. The bad news is that, like a huge ocean liner, it takes time to alter a course and if we are going to do so, we must do it now.
        “The election this November is our chance to bring a new Captain aboard that will steer our nation back to strength and prosperity.”
        A round of applause filled the auditorium.
        “Wow!” I said. “The man certainly has a way with words. I know absolutely nothing about politics, but his example made it very clear to me what he was trying to say.”
        “You haven’t heard anything yet,” Mark replied. “Just listen.”
        When the applause had died down, Ben continued, “My candidacy is about freedom for the American people --- freedom and choices.
        “I believe that the function of government is to protect its citizens from dangers from both inside and outside our borders.
        “I believe that the function of government is to insure that our infrastructure is sound and meets the needs of a growing nation.
        “I believe that the function of government is to provide financial stability where business can prosper and where the individual, through hard work, can achieve his heart’s desires.
        “I believe that the American Dream is not dead!”
        Another round of applause.
        "I do NOT believe that it is the function of government to legislate