If it had been Cicero up there on stage, part of his debate prep would have involved creating an image in his mind’s eye of the three departments he wanted to cut: maybe his favorite elementary school teacher standing behind a lemonade stand handing out wads of cash, while shooting lightning bolts out of her armpits. That wacky image would have reminded him he wants to cut education, commerce, and energy.

Writes Cicero: “Nor yet is anybody so dull-witted that habitual practice in this will not give him some assistance.”

I know of at least one US senator who still uses the Ciceronian techniques to deliver speeches from memory. I’m surprised more politicians don’t practice this sort of thing. I would think it would be hugely valuable in their line of work.

Somebody get Ricky Perry a copy of Moonwalking with Einstein!