>the problem i have is that most (not all) young people seem to base "the best person available" a lot more on personality, fame, and specifically - "coolness" - whatever that is - than on anything resembling an ability to lead, experience, or relevant issues.

And how much does this differ from the average voter? (no <g>) FWIW, I thought your original list of qualifications was unbelievably elitist and un-American.

Tamar