by KYW's John Ostapkovich
As preparations continued for the Democratic presidential debate on Tuesday night, re-enactors were debating the hot issues of 1792 -- yes, 1792 -- at the Independence Visitors Center.
They strolled about, speaking to passersby and each other. Dressed in period costume, "President Washington," standing for re-election, was unmistakable, as was "Thomas Jefferson" with his bright shock of red hair.
President Washington, as imposing a figure today as then, was more standing than running:
"Well, sir, I do not run for office. I believe that the sheer fact that somone actively seeks an office is proof positive that they lack the characteristics to serve properly. Unfortunately, many politicians twistify the very engines that put them there and they are not as concerened with the common weal as they should be."
That's "weal" as in wealth, not the round thing.
Another identifies himself as Senator Aaron Burr:
"What it will take is someone who can bring differing factions together."
Yes, even in the very first presidential re-election campaign, there were different factions, largely over state power vs. federal power.
Vice president "John Adams":
"The issues are basically a strong national government, a government that can stand on its own, stand up to foreign enemies and a strong economy."
Sound familiar?
(Photo: John Ostapkovich)
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