The Kid Who Ran for President

The next day, after introducing himself to Chelsea (who isn’t sure who he is), Judson asks her if she’ll be his First Lady. She’s skeptical until Judson says she wouldn’t have to actually date him, only attend events and parties every so often. The idea of parties where photographers would see her dressed up sells her on the idea, and she agrees by asking Judson if she “would look better in a blue or a pink silk dress at the inauguration” (39).

Later, Judson stops by June’s house to ask her about being his running mate. She refuses at first, saying Judson is crazy for wanting to get mixed up in politics. When she finally asks why Judson wants her as a running mate, Judson replies, “Because you’re the only grown-up I know who isn’t stupid” (42). June can’t argue with that and agrees because “somebody’s gotta keep an eye on you, Judson Moon” (42).

At their next strategy session, Lane tells Judson they need $20 million to get the campaign started and buy things like airtime on television and promotional materials (posters, bumper stickers, and the like). Judson has no idea how he’ll get that much money and resolves not to run.