The Land of the Free: American Political Roleplay (IC II)

[Azekopolaltion]

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Paul C. Joyce
February 24th, 2020
North Charleston, South Carolina

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Paul had just stepped off the plane and exited the airport when he opened his phone to find a curious notification. It was an email from the Speaker of the House's secretary. Now, Paul was no stranger to invitations from individuals in high places---heck, his dad called him over for coffee with the Kennedys practically every other Sunday. But an invitation from the House's most powerful woman, a person he regularly thrashed on all of his platforms?

It was certainly unexpected. Paul had no interest in dialogue with a centrist politician; they were all corporatist gaslighters anyway, otherwise they wouldn't occupy the positions they held. But it could be useful to hang on to the invitation for later. Paul decided to deal with it after the South Carolina primary was over.

He'd arrived in the Palmetto State a few days early, just to speak on some local media, attend some marches with civil rights groups, and hopefully grab an interview with one of the candidates or their officials on the ground. He opened Instagram to start a livestream.

"Hey gang, just wanted to let you guys know I have landed here in North Charleston, I'll be speaking to folks here on the ground in the next few days, getting little tidbits of information in the lead up to the primary. You can watch me on local media, I'm gonna be at a few demonstrations, and if you want to keep up but don't have time to watch the livestreams, I will be tweeting live updates as frequently as possible. Wanted to keep you guys in the loop, stay safe, and if you live here in SC I hope I will see you soon out on the trail! Ok, bye for now. Let's help Levi get this W."

[Sarenium]

“Yes, I am opposed, for two reasons. First off, there’s no consensus within our party about whether or not consumer welfare should be the only standard for antitrust law. I’d prefer to leave the issue for the next Democratic President to settle. Secondly, while the issue is just as divisive among the Republicans, President Tawney’s an establishment man who’s certain to shoot down the attempt with a veto.”

Tim leaned back in his chair and stroked his chin, half-nodding at Volek's words. The man certainly had a point––although he personally was backing this effort because of his strong support for consumer rights, it was unlikely that there would be broad agreement within the party about new standards (many Democrats, after all, were receiving fat checks from Big Tech), and any new regulations would definitely scare off more mainstream Republicans like the sitting President.

"Alright then, the language right now is nice and tight, just as I like it. I don't know if there's much else to edit. When would you like me to meet with Levi, and what exactly do you want us to discuss? Unless this is going to the top of the docket, is there a need to get started on this now?"

"Explain this to me, how would we go about setting up an infrastructure bank? Where has it failed in the past?" Jillian leaned in, full curiosity abound.

"Good question, implementation is everything," Tim scratched the back of his head as he tried to recall everything he knew about the legislative history, "generally, there's support for the idea on both sides. The real reason Baharia couldn't get it through is because of disagreement about logistics."

"Republicans don't want the bank to have a centralized structure; they want it privately managed, federally chartered. Baharia's proposal, on the other hand, would've had the bank administered similar to the FDIC; members appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, instead of having private shareholders make those decisions. I'd lean towards his version, obviously, given the opportunities for corruption and pushing priorities not in the public interest with a privately managed bank."

"And then there's the big question of capitalizing it. Republicans don't want a cent of taxpayer money to fund it; they prefer issuing debt and equity to private investors to raise the initial capital, and creating certain tax incentives for companies that agree to buy in. This would be very similar to something like the Federal Home Loan Bank. Democrats, as usual, are varied on this issue; moderates lean towards the Republican proposal, progressives prefer capitalizing it with taxpayer appropriations."

"I think it's fairly obvious that the progressives' idea makes more sense policy-wise. Issuing expensive tax breaks just to capitalize a new public institution and increasing longterm budget deficits makes no sense to me when you can just infuse it with taxpayer money immediately. Politically, though - that's a different ballgame from the policy, as you know too well."

"The infrastructure bank would be a source for state and federal governments alike to fund projects, I assume, but and you'll have to forgive me for my lack of education on the issue, but would a state like Virginia which just began building the light-rail connecting D.C., Alexandria and all that to Nassau, repay the extracted money? Or are we relying on interest, assets and bonds the bank could invest in elsewhere to lead to it saying profitable?" Jillian wrote something down and sipped her drink.

[Federal States of Xathuecia]

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U.S. Capitol Building
Washington, D.C.
February 2020

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"We are plotting a strategy and one I will be able to cross-reference whether you or Sen. Dayton win. But I think I don't need to explain to you how the top of the ticket is a significant influence on the down ballot. You don't need to create a plan for how to win every race or how you'd distribute funds for ActBlue but a general idea of how your message would translate or be amended across the nation. After all, all politics is local."

[Puertollano]

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U.S. Capitol Building
Washington, D.C.
February 2020

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(Image)

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"We are plotting a strategy and one I will be able to cross-reference whether you or Sen. Dayton win. But I think I don't need to explain to you how the top of the ticket is a significant influence on the down ballot. You don't need to create a plan for how to win every race or how you'd distribute funds for ActBlue but a general idea of how your message would translate or be amended across the nation. After all, all politics is local."

"I will certainly support down-ballot races where I can. Unfortunately, because the House is so badly gerrymandered, we will always be at an inherent disadvantage. And in the Senate too, where Wyoming will always have the same amount of Senators as California. I think a conversation about Washington D.C. statehood is warranted if we ever want to hold the Senate ever again."

[Federal States of Xathuecia]

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U.S. Capitol Building
Washington, D.C.
February 2020

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"And Puerto Rico too. But of course, such conversation cannot be realistic without winning the Senate," replied Vinnie.

[Puertollano]

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U.S. Capitol Building
Washington, D.C.
February 2020

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(Image)

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"And Puerto Rico too. But of course, such conversation cannot be realistic without winning the Senate," replied Vinnie.

"Well, either state-hood or independence. I'd rather give the Puerto Rican people the choice on that. But - back to the Senate, I am confident that I could win the Senate back."

[Bruke]

Democratic Leader’s Suite, the Capitol Building

Karel, having a rare but always appreciated moment of free time, decided to give Jack Vichter a call.

He had news for him. Very good news.

[Dentali]

Moore didn't move "Those tweets from idiots all over the party attacking her and basically saying she was a bimbo who only mattered because of her relationship to a white man? That was sexist and racist garbage. She's running against you, i'm sorry but it happens. Doesn't mean what she is fighting for or what she has contributed is worthless... and frankly Madame Speaker I have spent most of my life afraid of the police, I had to give my children a talk about how to interact with police so they don't get shot." Moore had gone from frustrated to dark and serious fairly quickly, his temper flaring was a rare event.

"You want to know how to win black voters in 2020? The party needs to stop being dismissive of black movements, take BLM and activists seriously. If you don't that wipes out a massive portion of youth and African American voters because they feel the Democratic Party has contempt for them."

"I don't have contempt for BLM or for activists who work hard for causes. I have them in and out of my office on a regular basis. I consult them on policy. We're going to push a police reform bill in this Congress, and the next one, and the one after that, until something is done. You should know that's consciously one of my priorities, I've mentioned it publicly on more than one occasion." Standing by the door, she looked at Moore in his reclining position with a severe expression. "I know how the primary process works. I've gone back to my district. I've spoken. I've leafleted. I've campaigned. I know how the game works. But you cannot sit there, James, you absolutely cannot sit there and tell me that she is an honest women acting in good faith. When Donaldson summoned me to his offices before he announced in New York, he threatened that I'd be challenged for my seat if I didn't endorse him. This is him making good on that threat. And whether she's an unwitting pawn in that scheme or a willing accomplice, I rightly don't care. But I will not indulge Donaldson's attempt to bully his way into power with his money and his opportunism. That is not the kind of Democratic Party we run here."

Moore rose “The party created a monster in Williams because of how they treated her. I’m not telling you she’s good or bad, I’m saying because our people called her a whore and her cause worthless we made enemies of her cause. It was way out of line and the leadership did nothing. Now you have to deal with the monster that was created. Donaldson won’t leave, he has the money and he has a cause that no one else in the party is addressing. He’s not a spoiler, his supporters wouldn’t go anywhere else. You need to defeat his supporters and recruit them or appease them. Only way out.” Moore walked to the door

“You have a tough job and a big coalition to keep together, you probably deserve more grace than you’re given. But a peace needs to be made or 10% of the party isn’t showing up in 2020.” Moore shook her hand and left the office

[Federal States of Xathuecia]

Mac Faulhaber
@MemphisMac

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What an incredibly sexist tone by Senator Levi Murphy in the debate right now. Calling a fellow senator and colleague, Senator Jillian Dayton, only by her last name only serves to degrade her and treat her as an object that is supposed to answer on command and not an individual worthy of respect. Also quite peculiar many who were quick to point out sexism when directed at fellow progressives aren't doing the same when it happens to their ideological opponent. #FoodForThought

[Federal States of Xathuecia]

Martin Spellman
@thespellman

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Let's make it clear that despite all the efforts we will make to register voters, the electoral college is outdated and should be abolished. If you want to help, check out the new item offered on my website and Our New America's site! All proceeds will go directly to grassroots organizations working to register underserved communities to vote and fund their local health clinics.

PRICE: $59

[Kargintinia]

Harold Baines @MrBMayor Senator Murphy referring to his fellow legislator by solely her name shows the sexism and toxicity of the “progressive” movement trying to take over our party and is unbecoming of a member of the highest legislative body in the land.

[Federal States of Xathuecia]

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U.S. Capitol Building
Washington, D.C.
February 2020

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"I think you help our Ohio candidate. Though there may be concerns in Maine or Alaska."

Vinnie paused before smiling.

"But I think we have discussed enough. No need to get into the weeds of it all. I only ask you keep this in mind. If you win, you will be the leader of the party and should be knowledgeable about most things, including what you see as our best play to get the House and Senate. I think you'll do great, just keep your head on straight Senator. Don't get into petty fights, focus on the big picture, and that's advice not just for the general but for the primary too."

He stood up.

"You are a good man, a straight shooter. And I like that. Sometimes we need someone to cut through all the bullsh*t." said Diehl in an endearing, grandfatherly way.

[Puertollano]

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U.S. Capitol Building
Washington, D.C.
February 2020

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(Image)

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"I think you help our Ohio candidate. Though there may be concerns in Maine or Alaska."

Vinnie paused before smiling.

"But I think we have discussed enough. No need to get into the weeds of it all. I only ask you keep this in mind. If you win, you will be the leader of the party and should be knowledgeable about most things, including what you see as our best play to get the House and Senate. I think you'll do great, just keep your head on straight Senator. Don't get into petty fights, focus on the big picture, and that's advice not just for the general but for the primary too."

He stood up.

"You are a good man, a straight shooter. And I like that. Sometimes we need someone to cut through all the bullsh*t." said Diehl in an endearing, grandfatherly way.

"Thanks for coming by," Levi said, going to shake his hand.

[Federal States of Xathuecia]

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U.S. Capitol Building
Washington, D.C.
February 2020

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The elder North Dakotan shoot the man's hand, before clamping it with his other.

"Keep the faith Levi," he said, before departing the room and heading to another senator's office.

[Sarenium]

Democratic Leader’s Suite, the Capitol Building

Karel, having a rare but always appreciated moment of free time, decided to give Jack Vichter a call.

He had news for him. Very good news.

Jack picked up in the car between events, "hello! Jack here."

[Bruke]

Democratic Leader’s Suite, the Capitol Building

Karel, having a rare but always appreciated moment of free time, decided to give Jack Vichter a call.

He had news for him. Very good news.

Jack picked up in the car between events, "hello! Jack here."

“Hello Jack, it’s very good to hear from you again. This is Karel. I’ve seen the latest polling, and I know you’re within striking distance. And I have a bill in the works that’s right up your alley and may help you close the gap. I’d like to hear your initial thoughts about it, and if you like it, I’ll send a draft for you to look over.”

[Kargintinia]

Earl Tenson @BigEars4Gov It doesn’t matter what names the Democrats call eachother on the debate stage, it doesn’t take much to see that all of these candidates are wrong for America.

[Sarenium]

(Image) Earl Tenson @BigEars4Gov It doesn’t matter what names the Democrats call eachother on the debate stage, it doesn’t take much to see that all of these candidates are wrong for America. (Image)

Liked and Retweeted by @JoeForTexas

[Lavan Tiri]

(Image)
Mac Faulhaber
@MemphisMac

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What an incredibly sexist tone by Senator Levi Murphy in the debate right now. Calling a fellow senator and colleague, Senator Jillian Dayton, only by her last name only serves to degrade her and treat her as an object that is supposed to answer on command and not an individual worthy of respect. Also quite peculiar many who were quick to point out sexism when directed at fellow progressives aren't doing the same when it happens to their ideological opponent. #FoodForThought

Governor Russell E. Long
@RussellLong

Last names aren't sexist, Mac.

[Federal States of Xathuecia]

(Image)
Mac Faulhaber
@MemphisMac

---

What an incredibly sexist tone by Senator Levi Murphy in the debate right now. Calling a fellow senator and colleague, Senator Jillian Dayton, only by her last name only serves to degrade her and treat her as an object that is supposed to answer on command and not an individual worthy of respect. Also quite peculiar many who were quick to point out sexism when directed at fellow progressives aren't doing the same when it happens to their ideological opponent. #FoodForThought

Governor Russell E. Long
@RussellLong

Last names aren't sexist, Mac.

Mac Faulhaber
@MemphisMac

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Being pro-birth, anti-choice definitely is. #FoodForThought

[Puertollano]

(Image)
Mac Faulhaber
@MemphisMac

---

What an incredibly sexist tone by Senator Levi Murphy in the debate right now. Calling a fellow senator and colleague, Senator Jillian Dayton, only by her last name only serves to degrade her and treat her as an object that is supposed to answer on command and not an individual worthy of respect. Also quite peculiar many who were quick to point out sexism when directed at fellow progressives aren't doing the same when it happens to their ideological opponent. #FoodForThought

Governor Russell E. Long
@RussellLong

Last names aren't sexist, Mac.

Levi Murphy re-tweeted.

[Lavan Tiri]

(Image)
Governor Russell E. Long
@RussellLong

Last names aren't sexist, Mac.

Mac Faulhaber
@MemphisMac

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Being pro-birth, anti-choice definitely is. #FoodForThought

Governor Russell E. Long
@RussellLong

Not all of us are gifted with a safe blue Congressional District, Mac. Some of us have to compromise in order to achieve anything. I know you're not used to achieving things, it's okay. At least you aren't bald.

Oh wait.

[Sarenium]

Jillian Dayton
@JillianDayton

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The Dayton Plan to tackle corruption in politics includes an Independent, nonpartisan commission against corruption designed to to directly attack ethical breaches of current and former officeholders and a pledge to overturn Citizens United as soon as practically possible. Tonight on stage, we have a literal billionaire and a hot air balloon allege this campaign is funded by Super PACs, lies and slander are how they wish to govern.

[Federal States of Xathuecia]

Torrie Volker
@TheOtherVolker

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Stopping abortions on demand and protecting unborn lives should not have to be a compromise for Democrats just so they can be elected and enact their radical socialist agenda. Whether you are in a blue or red district, Americans should always stand by life not just when it's convenient. That's why defending the unborn is at the core of the GOP. #VoteRed

[The Grand Duchy Of Nova Capile]

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