Ep 10. Ellie for Council

Ellie for Council is the tenth episode of the first season of The Andy Griffith Show. In this particular episode, the town of Mayberry is organizing a council for the first time, and the people are looking for candidates to run for a seat.

Ellie, the town's only female mechanic, sees this as a chance to prove that women can serve in leadership positions as well. She decides to run for the council, but she faces a lot of opposition from men who believe that a woman's place is not in politics but in the home.

Andy, who is managing the elections, tries to persuade Ellie to step down in order to avoid controversy. However, she refuses to withdraw, insisting that she has what it takes to represent the people of Mayberry.

In the meantime, Ellie's opponent Ben Weaver, a successful businessman who owns a department store in town, launches a negative campaign against her, spreading false rumors about her and questioning her ability to serve. He uses his wealth and influence to intimidate potential voters and to bribe the election officials.

Ellie, on the other hand, relies on her honesty, her hard work, and her good character to win the hearts and minds of the people. She visits every household and listens to their concerns and suggestions. She also uses her mechanical skills to help the community, fixing cars and appliances for free.

As the day of the election draws near, tensions rise in Mayberry. The men and women of the town take sides, and arguments erupt in public places. Andy and Barney, his deputy, do everything in their power to maintain order and to ensure a fair and peaceful process.

Finally, the day of the election arrives, and the citizens of Mayberry gather at the courthouse to cast their votes. The atmosphere is electric, and the suspense is palpable. Andy and Barney count the ballots, and the winner is announced.

What happens next, and who emerges as the winner? You'll have to watch the episode to find out. Suffice it to say that Ellie for Council is a classic example of how an old-fashioned, small-town drama can touch the hearts of viewers and teach valuable lessons about democracy, gender equality, and human nature.