Today begins the annual extravaganza of Americana known as the Iowa State Fair, which is probably not all that different from other state fairs, except for one thing: the presence of presidential candidates. But for all its wholesomeness, the Iowa State Fair is everything that’s wrong with presidential politics.
That's not to say that the State Fair isn't an entertaining spectacle. Though the Fried Butter on a Stick (literally a deep-fried stick of butter) is sadly no longer available, this year's fair features no fewer than 69 foods that are served on a stick, including Snickers in a Waffle on a Stick, Peanut Butter and Jelly on a Stick, and the Slopper, a foot-long hot dog with corn chips, chili and cheese sauce.