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“How goes the campaign, Teddy?” his long time friend asked as they walked through the headquarters building, on their way to lunch.
“It’s still a little early to tell.  Polls are close, and his side of the fence really likes him.  Ken is going to be a tough opponent.  Some from our side might even vote for him.  I have to admit, he’s a likeable guy, with a supermodel wife.  I love Ann to death, but she doesn’t have a way with the camera like those two,” he told Andy as they exited the building and walked to the bistro up the street.
“I hope you’re not talking down about my sister,” Andy joked.  Teddy had married Ann years back, and Andy knew that his best friend loved his sister with all of his heart.  “How are things going with you two anyway?”
“You know she’s great, Andy.  I tell you every time, and will continue to.  She’s put up with everything ever since this campaign started.  Plus, every time things start to look a little down, she’s always there to pick me up.”
After ordering their usual, they continued the conversation.  “Not to mention all those crazy schemes she’s put up with,” Andy said with a laugh.  “So what that Ken has been and done almost everything there is to do?  He’s not the type that will be there for comfort, someone to cry on, or hold when no one else will do.
“You know as well as I do that elections are based on two things anymore…personality, and the way in which the candidate plans on dealing with the issues.  With the elimination of war, poverty, and hunger all over the world a number of years ago, only certain issues matter anymore.”
“I know it’s just standard red vs. blue stuff politically, but, like you said, it also goes with personality.  Ken is one of those types that’s outgoing, like I was saying, and I am, like you said, more of a personal type person.  Sometimes I’m not sure which people will prefer.”
“Look at it this way, Teddy.  Yeah, he goes and does all this stuff.  Just because you don’t do all of the things he does, that doesn’t mean you aren’t active or athletic.  You’ve got your hand in both pies…athletic, and caring.  You’re like an athletic supporter,” he added with another laugh.
Teddy, laughing along, said, “Yeah, I guess you’re right.   I’m glad you’re my best friend.  Between you and your sister, I’m set.  Now I don’t feel so bad about that press conference this afternoon.  Thanks, Andy.”
“Don’t mention it, pal.  Now let’s pay this bill and head back to the office.  We have some last minute prep work to do.”
Teddy and Andy left the bistro, and headed back to the office, to make their final preparations.  A few hours later, it was show time.

The large metal door swung inward, after the strong locks were thrown.  The nice woman in white carried in a tray with two cups, one little, the other larger.  “Time for your medicine, Jason.  Here you go, and here’s your water.”  She handed him the small cup first, and he took the pills, washing them down with the water from the larger cup.
“You know I don’t need these, right, nurse?” Jason said to her.
“That’s not what the doctor says, Jason.  Good night now and I’ll see you tomorrow.”  She left the room with a kind smile on her face, and the door was once again latched shut.
“I really don’t need them,” Jason said, to himself and his collection of stuffed animals and dolls.  Then the lights went out.  Jason curled up on the bed, and closed his eyes to sleep.

“Ready, Teddy?” Andy said to his friend.
“No time like the present,” responded Teddy Bear.
Raggedy Andy walked out onto the stage to introduce his long time friend.  “Ladies and Gentlemen, I am honored to present to you your candidate…and the next President of the United States…