NEW YORK - Long time fast food child icon Ronald McDonald announced today that he would seek the Democratic nomination for president in 2004, astonishing many in Washington.

"This country needs a drastic change," McDonald said in his speech, "and I hope to be the one to bring it to Washington in 2004." He went on to say that the clowns in the white house are not listening to a very untapped voting resource with children.

When reporters asked how this would help as the minimum voting age is 18 years of age, Ronald responded that America's kids are spoiled and get what they want, and they want Ronald in the White House.

McDonald, 60, also sought to distinguish himself from lesser-known Democratic rivals by embracing his long record with children. "I think experience matters," he said in a text of his address. "I, along with my long time friend and soon to be running mate Grimace, will lead this country into the right direction."

Some of his election promises included renaming the Pentagon into 'Prez's Play Place', changing the presidential Sunday radio address into Hamburglar's Robble Robble Riddles, and to even continue his appearance of a clown if elected.

Republicans in Washington scoffed at McDonald's speech saying these weren't really changes at all from Bush's Administration.

Gephardt, who just earlier today announced his own presidential campaign, quickly bowed out after news of Ronald's announcement. "He cannot stand a chance against him," Gephardt's campaign manager said. "I mean, no one has more of a squeaky clean record than Mr. McDonald."

After Ronald McDonald's speech, hundreds of reporters and democratic followers were treated to happy meals with toy surprises inside.

Ryan Phillips reporting for News2me