Nudist risks road to the presidency

by Jess Anderson and Ruben Holly
Presidency and the Press

Does a nudist really have a shot at reaching the Oval Office? What about a former nun whose platform rests on the legalization of marijuana? Well, $1,000 and a dream can give any American a shot at the presidency, according to David Tirrell-Wysocki.

Regardless of the slim odds of victory, Tirrell-Wysocki said ordinary citizens have tried to reach the highest office in large numbers  over the years.

Tirrell-Wysocki, the executive director of the Nackey S. Loeb School of Communications, interviewed multiple “long-shot” candidates during his career as a journalist.

He said that many of these contenders don’t take themselves too seriously and don’t harbor illusions.

“They know they’re not in to win. They just want to be heard,” he said.

For example, Russell Linnell, who ran in 1996 at age 81, told prospective voters that he didn’t want their votes, merely their attention and input.

Tirrell-Wysocki also referred to Howard Stassen, who had a history of failed presidential bids. He said that Stassen explained that his losses didn’t deter him from trying again because the experience allowed him to “meet nice people” and get his ideas out.

Stassen said, “It would be one chance in a million if I win.”

However, not all dark horse candidates have been unsuccessful. According to Tirrell-Wysocki, Jimmy Carter was virtually unknown when he first paid his $1,000 fee in 1975, but went on to be chief executive.

“He won over the people,” he said.

Whether through using humor, shock, or straight charisma, Tirrell-Wysocki said that ordinary citizens turned politician generally are able to present a clear message to the country.

“The neat thing about the long shots is they have nothing to lose by being honest,” he said.