America's political circus came to town Tuesday and the midway was the Belmont University campus, where the sideshows included political impersonators and musical entertainment.

The university was flooded by a spirited mass of political enthusiasts decked out in variations of red, white and blue.

Balloons and giveaways attracted citizens of all ages who were eager to be interviewed by the swarm of media, take a tour of the CNN bus and advertise their stance on today's major issues.

A lengthy row of white tents displayed vivid collections of political buttons and banners while advocating a variety of causes. Tables for the ACLU and local Congressional representatives catered to political junkies.

A tent where children took pictures with presidential impersonators was sandwiched between one promoting pro-choice and another, pro-life.

Partisan T-shirts were highly sought after. "Ben from Super Electric Press" - no last name - peddled "Barack to the Future" slogans. "We want to get people to smile and get people to vote," said Ben.

"Everyone's been so nice. Even the McCain people are like, ǃÚHey, cool shirt.'"
Not to be outdone, Shirtopia offered McCain fans a rival "Omama" shirt featuring a cartoon Sarah Palin.

Some T-shirts represented issues on which everyone can agree, like fighting heart disease, for instance.

Lavil Allen, a third-year student at Meharry Medical College's Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease tent, said he became involved because "no matter if you're Democrat or Republican, heart disease affects everyone. We wanted to bring awareness and make sure candidates speak to that." He also said it was "great to put a smile on people's faces."

Refreshment tables offered Southern-style food, and a Canadian band provided nonpartisan entertainment.