Project Summary From June 2003 through the November 2004 election, Bill traveled the nation as Will Markson, "America's Favorite Fictional Candidate for President," speaking at colleges, high schools and elsewhere to promote common-sense democracy reform and expanded voter participation. It was a project of a little nonprofit Bill established, Yes I Will!, that sought to use humor to educate Americans about the need to update our aging democratic structures. Speechification, Markson-style. It was a wholly nonpartisan effort that never mentioned candidates or political parties. The faux campaign was inspired in part by Pat Paulsen's famous 1968 comedic campaign, launched on "The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour." With Tom & Dick Smothers (click for video). . Interviewed with his running mate, TiVo. "I'm running to win. But if not to win, I'm running for president to not lose too badly. And if not to 'not lose too badly', then at least to cover my expenses." -- Will Markson The incriminating and altogether shocking "MenudoGate" photo. Campaigning with TiVo.

Project Highlights Markson Quotes - A sampling of speech excerpts from America's favorite fictional candidate. Announcement Speech - Announcing plans to announce. News Coverage - An early profile from the Capitol Hill newspaper Roll Call. Video Clips "Will Markson: Compassionate" - The campaign's first 60-second television commercial -- the one that started it all! "Get-Out-The-Vote" Video - With apologies to the film "Say Anything," a moving Election-eve pitch to Americans everywhere. "Introducing Will Markson" - The four-minute introduction to America's favorite fictional candidate for president. "On the Streets of DC" - Will campaigns in meet-and-greet style in the nation's capital. "The Yes I WIll! Pledge" - Vowing to campaign tirelessly through 11/04 and beyond, Will takes the "Yes I WIll! Pledge." "Why I'm Running (#15)" - One of the many reasons Will sought the presidency. "MenudoGate" - Will flies home on his campaign helicopter and addresses the shocking "MenudoGate" scandal. "Interview with Will & TiVo" - Will explains why he chose TiVo as his running mate (audio). Radio Piece - A speech highlight broadcast on American Public Radio's "Weekend America." Democracy reform goes over big with today's kids! Kicking off the campaign in June, 2003.