November 3, 2004

Elementary election delivers results

Bush wins by 4-1 margin in election simulation at Eastern Elementary
By
Herald staff writer

      The results are in - it's George W. Bush by a 4-1 margin. At least, that's the way the votes tallied at Eastern Elementary on Monday as their fifth-grade students staged an election simulation.
      As in the national election, the candidates did their best to persuade voters to see things their way as part of a real life immersion into the country's electoral system.
      During the month long government unit, presidential candidates Ian McGraw, representing George W. Bush and Alannah O'Brien, representing John Kerry, delivered speeches about their personal history, stance on current political issues and plans for the future before their constituents.
      "In my second term I will continue to work to make America safer," said McGraw to a packed house of state delegates. "I have faith in the American people. I believe they are a just and caring nation."
      Both sides of the ticket had convincing arguments, attempting to lure voters to cast ballots in their favor during Monday's final vote.
      "I pledge that I will always be honest with the American people, even when the news is bad," said O'Brien, urging classmates to "Keep America Safe - Vote for John Kerry!"
      Running-mates and supporters also had their chance to use the art of the persuasion at the podium.
      "Our air and water is cleaner since Bush has been our president," said Ali Walker as she took the stage for the incumbent, while Alex Labadie countered that "Kerry would be an environmental champion."
      With the rhetoric complete, voters representing the 50 United States and the District of Columbia, chose the candidate they felt would be the best president. Each state then pledged their votes to determine the winner of the electoral college.
      "I'm sure president Bush wishes that your voting counted Tuesday," said principal Bill Smith as he announced the winner.
      Smith, who has conducted simulated elections for two previous presidential elections, thinks that the experience is significant.
      "The MEAP doesn't test public speaking but it is such an important part of what they do. This gives them a chance to get up and deliver, and learn about the electoral system in the process," Smith said.