The Halloween season is again approaching, as is the presidential election. Both have a lot in common. Several trick-or-treaters appear on the ballot wearing the mask of public image, designed by ad campaigns, mailers, debates, the media, and carefully scripted public exposure. The noise of ghoulish propaganda distracts us from learning who really is behind the mask.

It takes considerable money to make a mask these days, let alone the cost of spraying graffiti on the opponent’s mask. The nameless mask makers use globs of hope, fear, and greed smeared with dazzling promises to carefully mold their creation around the candidate. Unfortunately, the promises are designed to satisfy targeted constituent voting blocs as tested by polling. We no longer pick the candidate. He picks us, and we meekly follow, if one buys into the pretense. The presidential election process has become a charade.

Once upon a time, a great American running for president stood before the people and stated his position on the issues and said what he would do if elected. His opponent, Stephen A. Douglas, an accomplished orator, did the same. They respected each other and had debated previously for the Illinois Senate seat, which Douglas won.