Had I the power or the ability to change our political process so radically, I would try to do it in a way that wouldn't be too costly. I would also permit people to donate their time and possibly professional services, just not goods or money.

The stipend wouldn't be so large that it would allow the carnival-like atmosphere we're used to seeing for national campaigns. I've always felt that sort of show was wasteful and ridiculous, and ultimately meaningless in determining which candidate's views you support.

For me, seeing how a candidate got their message out with limited funds would be more telling about their ability to lead than would pouring money out on the ground. Anyone can get anything done with enough money, and that's not really a feat. Organizing enough volunteers to get a message out to the entire country takes skill, or the intelligence and charisma to recruit the right sort of people who have those skills.

That, to me, is the mark of a good President.