The most eye-opening civics lesson I’ve ever heard was a teacher’s third 
grade class.  The presidential election was heating up and some of 
the children showed an interest.  I decided we would have an election 
for a class president.  We would choose our nominees.  They would make 
a campaign speech and the class would vote.

To simplify the process, candidates were nominated by other class
Members.  We discussed what kinds of characteristics these students
Should have. We got many nominations and from those, Jamie and Olivia
were picked to run for the top spot.

The class had done a great job in their selections.  Both candidates were
good kids.  I thought Jamie might have an advantage because he got lots
of parental support.  I had never seen Olivia’s mother.  The day arrived
when they were to make their speeches   Jamie went first.  He had specific
ideas about how to make our class a better place.  He ended by promising
to do his very best.  Everyone applauded. 
 
He sat down and Olivia came to the podium.  Her speech was concise. 
She said, “If you will vote for me, I will give you ice cream.”  She sat down. 
The class went wild.  “Yes! Yes! We want ice cream.” 

She surely would say more.  She did not have to.  A discussion followed. 
How did she plan to pay for the ice cream?  She wasn’t sure.  Would her
parents buy it or would the class pay for it?  She didn’t know.  The class
really didn’t care.  All they were thinking about was ice cream.  Jamie
was forgotten.  Olivia won by a land slide.

Every time Barack Obama opens his mouth he offers ice cream, and fifty-three
percent of America reacts like nine-year-olds.  They want ice cream.  The
other forty-seven percent know they’re going to have to feed the cow.