Mike: "Thanks." He kissed her cheek and walked up to the podium. He gave one of his signature Lieutenant America grins. "Ladies, gentlemen, my fellow Americans. My name is Michael Rider, but you can call me Mike, all my friends do. I'm sure you all have winter break plans that you are eager to begin. I myself plan on visiting the cemetery this afternoon. So I'll be brief. Do you know what I see when I walk down these halls? I see smart, beautiful and talented people that are going to go places. Do you know what else I see? Potential and opportunity. Potential to be better people than we were yesterday, and opportunity to seize the day, achieve, to be a part of something greater. I'd like to help unlock the potential and seize the opportunity, make the school a better place. My grandfather fought in war, for freedom. So did my mother. I try to honor my grandfather and my mother by trying to make the world a better place. I know lots of other people lost family members in serving their country too. Even if it's just our school, even if it's just ourselves, shouldn't we use our freedoms to make life better? I may not have the experience my fine counterpart has, but if I am elected, I will do my best to do what the president is assigned to do: to serve the people to the best of my ability, to make their lives and their world better. Thank you." He stepped away, straightening his tie.