a new law I'd like to see regarding Presidential candidates...

[ginnyinWI]

Wouldn't it be a good idea to require a candidate to at least have a law degree in order to qualify to run in a primary? I mean, there ought to be some standard going forward so we can avoid electing another imbecile.

Doesn't guarantee that they'd be honest, or good, but at least they'd have a few brains. As far as I know, passing a bar exam isn't so easy.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

1. Not necessarily a law degree, but some background in government.

At a minimum a candidate should have significant experience in government or the military. This notion that running the government is just like running a business is pure bullshit.

[Equinox Moon]

2. I don't think they need a law degree,

but I get your point about some educational requirements.

Senator Franken is a good example, he is not an attorney and his work on the judiciary committee is amazing.

[GulfCoast66]

4. Congress cannot add requirements

The Constitution pretty well owns that territory.

Spelled out 228 years ago.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

10. True, but the parties could establish some standards for nominees.

[white_wolf]

3. We have too many lawyers in government.

Personally, I'd love to see some scientists, engineers, and professors.

[ProudLib72]

5. Like our own version of Merkel. nt

[Equinox Moon]

6. Yes! Agreed!

[demmiblue]

7. Uh, no. n/t

[LisaM]

8. Truman didn't even graduate from high school. It's not just about a degree.

Besides which, law school is expensive, and that would create an economic divide.

[Takket]

9. tax returns and birth certificates (just to diffuse further birther movements)