Can you write a stump speech in six words?

    Politicians are famous for using a lot of words and saying very little. Stump speeches on the campaign trail can be the worst. How short can you make a stump speech? Let’s find out.

    Looking forward to the Republican National Convention starting Aug. 27 and the Democratic National Convention starting Sept. 3, the National Constitution Center, in collaboration with SMITH Magazine, is challenging you to write a stump speech in no more more than six words.

    It’s part of Address America, a civic engagement project for the 2012 election year, culminating in an Oct. 29 event at the NCC inviting notable writers, performers and community members to give their own six-word summataion on American politics with colorful and entertaining backstories. 

    Here are six notable six-word stumps from former U.S. presidents to get you going:

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    “Have faith that right makes might.”—Abraham Lincoln, 1860

    “Federal government is overgrown and overweight.”—Ronald Reagan, 1980

    “Time has come for honest government.”—Richard Nixon, 1968

    “It’s special interests against the people.”—Harry S. Truman, 1948

    “Opportunity for all, responsibility from all.”—Bill Clinton, 1996

    “Read my lips: no new taxes.”—George H.W. Bush, 1988

    Use the tool below to make your submission.

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