What Voters Really Want

If a selection committee was charged to pick the next president -- like choosing the CEO of a corporation -- John McCain would win hands down. He has the experience, the character and everything else that qualifies him for the job.

But presidents are not selected by committees, they are voted in by the American public, and the American public is not as discerning as a committee of professionals.

We as Americans often vote charm, charisma, looks and personality over intellect, experience and values. That's why people like George Bush (the father) who was perhaps the most qualified person to assume the presidency, gets booted out of office by a charismatic Governor of one of the poorest states in the country. That's why a good-looking upstart like John Kennedy could beat incumbent vice-president Richard Nixon.

It's not about experience, talent, intellect or ability.

We are a nation of starry-eyed celebrity watchers. Our heroes are sports figures, movie stars, recording artists and the super-rich. We don't care for what a person has accomplished, rather, we care how someone looks on camera.

And that's why we always get what we deserve.