MG, I am in agreement with you that work in the building trades should not be "sneered at," but I am dumbfounded that you think that this particular guy is owed favcorable treatment:

"I think both campaigns need to cut all the red tape they can to expedite him getting a license asap, get him private plumbing tutors or whatever to pass any tests."

There are plenty of individuals who could use a break or two like that, including many who did not set out to stir up trouble with a Presdential candidiate they oppose for questionable reasons.

If Joe has half a brain, or even if he just knows anyone with a bit of imagination, he should find some kind of a way to capitalize on his 15-minutes-of-fame. Why he should be given any additional help, to the exclusion of thousands of other plumbers who have undergone training and paid for licenses, etc., and who are paid up on their taxes, is beyond me...