This thread suggested by a loyal reader (not sure yet if he wants the credit) and starts the reasons:
10. I have to wax all 13 cars that night.
9. I found a set of house keys, and I have to try them out in each of my 8 to 12 houses.
8. 9/11
7. Taller candidate usually wins and these podiums don’t let me hide my orange crate
6. Debate Commission disallowed use of the phrase “My Friends”
5. Lobbyists don’t work past 6 on Fridays, so he has no staff available.
You know you have more — count them down in the comments!