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

[Gordano and Lysandus]

“Protect me? Of course, Frankston and his team are probably already preparing to smear me. A failed candidate. Heck even if I step aside, my name will be bashed. I’ll be the dirty word on that primary debate stage and everyone will keep hearing it. So maybe I do step aside but for what? My name is stained, Governor, and I want a chance at proving them wrong in the same way I messed up the first time. I could wait, I could wait for my next turn. But I know the path already, I know even if I am in your cabinet, I’ll be scrutinized. The RNC will put off my gubernatorial run, calling it not the right time. I know how this goes Governor, I know that eventually, once your goodwill runs dry or if you don’t make it to the final goal, I’ll be the one fading into obscurity. Already I am....already I am.” she replied exasperated.

"I promise you, you won't be left behind by the RNC. I'm going to shake the whole damn thing up once I'm in charge. We can't let this year of hell repeat ever again. You'll get the support for the gubernatorial run, all the support you'll need. You've got plenty of life ahead of you, Karen, and you're taking your first uneasy steps into a dirty business. But you have friends who will help you get there. You're going to be front and center of one of the most radical Republican economic programs in history. Want extra screen time in the Admin? Sure, I'll make sure Comms make sure you're never erased from the picture. You're going to prove them wrong, but in order to do that, we have to play the game by the rules we both know. If you go out on that stage in this cycle, they'll bury you. Any attack or leak or whatever they were held back from using, they'll use. They'll do whateve they can to make sure you can't go on. Give it a little time. Rehabilitate the image. Let people forget. I'll make sure you're in the Senate before they put me in the ground, Karen."

[Alozia]

"Making access easier how? Do you intend for the federal government to get involved financially, are we talking about maybe setting a price cap, or..?"

"The biggest clientele of mental health services are low-income Americans or veterans, we can address the gaps in the VA, with a qualified Veterans Affairs Secretary who can reform the VA top to bottom," Jillian hinted, "while my healthcare plan would guarantee no out of pocket costs for mental health visits, that is, if someone enrolls in it."

"That's good to hear." Anne replied seemingly oblivious to the suggestion. "I am sure we could discuss this for hours, but from what I understand this is not the focal point of this meeting. So, our cooperation. How would you see it? Do you want me to simply endorse you or campaign for you? Maybe do fundraising or help with organizing? What are your expectations towards me?"

[Sarenium]

"The biggest clientele of mental health services are low-income Americans or veterans, we can address the gaps in the VA, with a qualified Veterans Affairs Secretary who can reform the VA top to bottom," Jillian hinted, "while my healthcare plan would guarantee no out of pocket costs for mental health visits, that is, if someone enrolls in it."

"That's good to hear." Anne replied seemingly oblivious to the suggestion. "I am sure we could discuss this for hours, but from what I understand this is not the focal point of this meeting. So, our cooperation. How would you see it? Do you want me to simply endorse you or campaign for you? Maybe do fundraising or help with organizing? What are your expectations towards me?"

"At the absolute worst, an endorsement," Jillian shifted gears, "in my mind, you have the makings of the first Secretary of the VA to be a woman, and would be able to use that position to effect real change."

She continued, "my cabinet needs people of merit, who know how to run their departments and can do their jobs effectively, who can counsel my Administration's decisions and work with the Hill, we could end our meeting tonight, and I'd still nominate you for Secretary of the VA should I make it there, but I'd rather have you with me along the way."

[Azekopolaltion]

---

Dayton Rally
November 14, 2019
Las Vegas, NV

---

The event was primed and ready. Corflutes were draping the walls, banners and streamers flew and a stage at the center was left empty and ready. Most of the attendees were members of the hospitality industry, Jillian would address the Culinary Workers Union membership the following day and visit workplaces, tonight was geared at that demographic. Local artists warmed the crowds for the evening rally and Jillian herself smiled as she spoke with her special guest. Then that guest would be whisked away just minutes before being announced on stage. Then he was welcomed with applause, and would deliver his remarks...

---

Tim Westra
Las Vegas, Nevada - Dayton 2020 Rally
November 14th, 2019

---

This was it. A moment Tim knew would have to come sooner or later as he pondered the future of his dormant campaign for the past few months, lying in wait as the primaries neared, but the poll numbers didn't seem to change. He knew his endorsement was valuable, having been a top tier candidate in early states, and now was the time to close ranks around a progressive that would actually give the movement meaning instead of tearing it down by making it a source of ridicule for the rest of the country.

And he had decided who that candidate would be.

He walked onto the stage with a familiar Springsteen song blaring in the background - which was a bit ironic, since he effectively was surrendering by officially dropping out of the race. But since this wasn't a traditional solo drop-out event, but rather an endorsement, he hoped it wouldn't be seen that way.

Tim smiled and waved at the crowd, who looked happier to see him there than Tim had expected. He wasn't sure what Dayton fans thought of him, but he did know that his reputation with female candidates wasn't all that great - in his view unfairly. This move would see to it that history treated him kindly.

"Thank you! Thank you everyone, you all are so kind. Thank you."

"Before I begin my remarks I would just like to offer my endless appreciation for the thousands of volunteers, small donors, and every individual person that powered this campaign. Seriously, we made it this far because of you. You are the reason our movement was the highest fundraiser in the first two quarters of this race, despite not taking a nickel in corporate money. You are the reason why we could advance the discussion about finally eradicating poverty in our nation to the forefront of this election. Because of your hard work and sweat, today the progressive movement is a viable path to refocus our country, not on the needs of a privileged minority, but on the working people that make this nation what it is."

"I am here today because I believe in the Democratic Party. I believe in our power to stand by the grassroots, to stand by the working class, to stand by our activist base. I believe in our party's courage to take on the special interests who would rather see us bickering about our identities rather than focusing on retaking our institutions from their corrupt grasp. I believe in our party's resolve in making big, bold changes to the bedrock of our nation so that the fundamental rights and principles that America was established on are extended to everyone."

"I am here today because I believe in the power of the working class! For the past few years, there has been a class war waged against the working families of this country. A class war waged by corrupt politicians in the White House, and in the Republican Party, who would rather bust unions, maintain wage slavery, and keep working people trapped in a cycle of endless debt and poverty, than demand that the plutocrats start paying their fair share back into the nation that created them!"

"Look at yourselves! You work day in and day out, some of you for over forty hours a week. You pay your taxes. Many of you are proud union members. You work in restaurants, in laundromats, hotels, casinos, and so many more places! And the swamp up in Washington, and the billionaire class, they take advantage of you everyday for these service-based jobs. And in return for what? While your productivity has only been growing in the past few decades, your wages haven't been. Instead the bigwigs are trying to decrease the power of collective bargaining with disastrous Right To Work For Less laws and union busting!"

"Well, no longer. Why do you pay your taxes but Amazon doesn't pay a nickel? Why can Jeff Bezos afford healthcare whenever he needs it but a single hospital bill can send you into debt? Why is it that you apparently have the right to vote, but the corporate-backed cronies seem to win every time?"

"Where I come from we don't beg for our rights. We stand up and take them!"

"The defining issue of our time, and the defining issue for the progress of our people, is how we treat those in our society who have the least! And every time the Democratic Party has been at its best has been when we have stepped back and listened to those closest to the pain. Be it the suffrage movement, the labor movement, the Civil Rights movement, from Wilson to Roosevelt to Johnson, it has been Democrats who have acted on making this country more equal, more just, more fair – when the people have stepped up for them."

"There is one candidate who clearly listens to the people. She has listened when parents have been worried about how they can give their children a quality education. She has listened when young people have worried about how they're gonna pay off the cost of college. She has listened to veterans when it seems like their country has turned its back on them when they were willing to give everything for it. She has listened to the elderly who are worried about their retirement security. She has listened to the next generation, who don't even know if they will have a secure planet in the future!"

"She has made it her life's mission to put fairness first. And when she's identified a problem, she doesn't just talk about it. She gets to work, without losing sight of her progressive values."

"Friends, my campaign might have ended. But our movement has not. And for all these reasons, I am proud to say fully and sincerely that I endorse my friend Senator Jillian Dayton for President of the United States of America!"

"Jillian is as tough as they get. In her story, raised by a working class family in a waterfront city, I see my own background, raised by a working class family in a small manufacturing town. In her values, I see my own. That you treat people with respect. That you recognize the dignity of work. That you stay humble and grounded even if you reach high places. That you're honest and transparent with the people you represent. That you tackle issues by listening, not running your ideological mouth."

"We can all see ourselves in Jillian Dayton. Because Jillian is one of us. She knows what it means to struggle. She knows what it means to be underestimated. She knows what it means to beat the odds. How do you get more American than that?"

"There are folks in this race who are acting like they've already been coronated. One male candidate has even promised to select a woman vice presidential nominee! Well, you know what? I've been listening to both female supporters and female critics all over the country. And from what I gather, women are sick and tired of being gifted a side seat at the table!"

"If Mike Veléz truly believes in representation and progress towards our first woman president, then he should join me in closing ranks around this woman. Because she isn't just a woman. The breadth of experience that Jillian brings to this election - as a House legislator, as a Governor, and now as a United States Senator - is unmatched by anyone in this race. And frankly, should she be elected, she would be the most qualified and capable president in modern American history! I trust her to lead us to a better place!"

"Jillian is a real one, I know that better than anybody. When I was drafting the Affordable Care Act back in 2009, she was right at my side, pushing the public option clause that I wrote. Because Jillian knows that if you're sick and your insurer is not doing right by you, that shouldn't prevent you from getting the care you need. In a modern, moral, wealthy society, no one should be too poor to live! And with her leadership, which will push for a public option that is provided at no cost to the poor, we can finally join the rest of the developed world in providing healthcare as a human right to our population."

"She's had real success in providing higher education as a right to all Virginians who want one! There is no one in this race that has actually done more for young people than Senator Dayton. Jillian understands that in the future economy that we all know is coming, nothing can prepare someone better than having the skills - from higher education or vocational training - to stay competitive. Fairness First means equal opportunity!"

"And Jillian has the guts to taken on the big money interests to do what's right for America! She's done it as Governor by ensuring that the wealthy of her state start paying their fair share. And she'll do it again as President. The drug companies, the insurance companies, the financial industry, the oil companies - they will, excuse my French, shit their pants if she becomes President! That's what we want to finally see, folks."

"Jillian does not take working people for granted. Unlike some people in this race, who think they can manipulate and own the vote of the working class through demagoguery, Jillian actually cares about solving your problems, not forcing an ideology on us. She has been speaking to unions and workers all over the country. She will end destructive Right To Work for Less laws that enslave workers, she will fight to bolster union membership by removing corporate-created obstacles that prevent collective bargaining, and she will finally lead a government that is of the workers, by the workers, and for the workers! Because if there is a class war in this country, it is about damn time the working class won that war!"

"Jillian understands the threat that climate change poses not just to our nation, but the world. She is ready to recreate both our domestic and foreign policy so that America leads the world in reaching 100% renewable energy, creates millions of good-paying union jobs in the process, and secures a future that is free from fires that burn our houses down, storms that blow our roofs away, and floods that sink our homes. The next generation has a right to live in a clean and peaceful planet, and Jillian understands this."

"Jillian understands that it's time we reprioritize government spending on saving lives and helping our people at home, rather than taking lives and bombing people abroad. We need to invest in American roads, American schools, American industry, and American waterways, rather than F-35 jets and missiles used in regime change wars that actually make the world less safe rather than safer."

"Jillian knows the impact of history on marginalized communities, particularly the African-American community, and she is ready to listen to leaders on day one to take an integrative approach in securing social justice and breaking down institutions of systemic inequities in our country. Whether it's in policing, criminal justice, jobs, education, or housing, Jillian is ready to listen to black Americans and guarantee a truly holistic approach in providing reparations for this nation's original sin of slavery and institutionalized racism."

"Friends, a better world is possible. The problems we face don't define us as a nation. I believe America is the greatest country on Earth. But she is only great because she is defined by how we solve our problems! The day we give up, and say 'it's too hard,' and become too afraid to pursue structural reforms, is the day we will no longer have the right to call ourselves great."

"Like me, like you, Jillian Dayton believes in the power of the Democratic Party and the American Dream. It may not exist right now, but we can make the dream a reality. We just need some solidarity, we need a lot of effort, we need heart, we need hope, and together, my friends, we will change this country for the better."

"But before we do that, we have to get Jillian Dayton elected. And so here's my ask of you. Do not get complacent. The Dayton campaign is rising in the polls. The momentum is with us. But even if Jillian is recognized as capable, as qualified, as competent, as kind, it's not enough to guarantee a win."

"Wins don't just happen. We have to work for them. So please, join me in working with Jillian to retake the White House for you. Your fight is our fight, and our fight is your fight. Sign up to knock on doors, to phone bank, to text voters, or chip in even 5 bucks to help boost this campaign. We win when we organize, and I am dedicated to helping the Dayton Campaign out-organize every last candidate in this race, just as I did with my own."

"If you believe in equity, if you believe in solidarity, if you believe in fairness - then join us and fight for what you believe in. Thank you everyone, God bless you, and God bless America!"

"And now, without further ado, let me turn this over to the woman we've been waiting for, the next president of these United States...my friend, my colleague, and our candidate - Jillian Dayton!"

[Federal States of Xathuecia]

“Protect me? Of course, Frankston and his team are probably already preparing to smear me. A failed candidate. Heck even if I step aside, my name will be bashed. I’ll be the dirty word on that primary debate stage and everyone will keep hearing it. So maybe I do step aside but for what? My name is stained, Governor, and I want a chance at proving them wrong in the same way I messed up the first time. I could wait, I could wait for my next turn. But I know the path already, I know even if I am in your cabinet, I’ll be scrutinized. The RNC will put off my gubernatorial run, calling it not the right time. I know how this goes Governor, I know that eventually, once your goodwill runs dry or if you don’t make it to the final goal, I’ll be the one fading into obscurity. Already I am....already I am.” she replied exasperated.

"I promise you, you won't be left behind by the RNC. I'm going to shake the whole damn thing up once I'm in charge. We can't let this year of hell repeat ever again. You'll get the support for the gubernatorial run, all the support you'll need. You've got plenty of life ahead of you, Karen, and you're taking your first uneasy steps into a dirty business. But you have friends who will help you get there. You're going to be front and center of one of the most radical Republican economic programs in history. Want extra screen time in the Admin? Sure, I'll make sure Comms make sure you're never erased from the picture. You're going to prove them wrong, but in order to do that, we have to play the game by the rules we both know. If you go out on that stage in this cycle, they'll bury you. Any attack or leak or whatever they were held back from using, they'll use. They'll do whateve they can to make sure you can't go on. Give it a little time. Rehabilitate the image. Let people forget. I'll make sure you're in the Senate before they put me in the ground, Karen."

“Okay Governor, you’ve placated me for now. I’ll see to it that all loose ends are wrapped up for now then. Stay laying low.” she responded with a deep sigh.

“Anything I should do to help the Frankston kid then? I doubt my endorsement will do any good given how you’ve phrased things.”

[Gordano and Lysandus]

“Okay Governor, you’ve placated me for now. I’ll see to it that all loose ends are wrapped up for now then. Stay laying low.” she responded with a deep sigh.

“Anything I should do to help the Frankston kid then? I doubt my endorsement will do any good given how you’ve phrased things.”

"Those branch offices and networks of volunteers will be hella useful to him both when Cramp announces and for the general. The Frankstons are the kind who'll reward loyalty, share your logistics with him. That'll pay off for your gubernatorial race and later Senate runs, when you can demonstrate a far more material closeness to the Frankstons than you had for the special."

[Federal States of Xathuecia]

“Okay Governor, you’ve placated me for now. I’ll see to it that all loose ends are wrapped up for now then. Stay laying low.” she responded with a deep sigh.

“Anything I should do to help the Frankston kid then? I doubt my endorsement will do any good given how you’ve phrased things.”

"Those branch offices and networks of volunteers will be hella useful to him both when Cramp announces and for the general. The Frankstons are the kind who'll reward loyalty, share your logistics with him. That'll pay off for your gubernatorial race and later Senate runs, when you can demonstrate a far more material closeness to the Frankstons than you had for the special."

“Understood Governor.” she responded, tired of speaking already and hating herself for relenting so quickly despite her anger.

“Thank you for calling, do let me know if you need anything.”

[Gordano and Lysandus]

“Understood Governor.” she responded, tired of speaking already and hating herself for relenting so quickly despite her anger.

“Thank you for calling, do let me know if you need anything.”

"Karen, trust me on this. Baby steps. I know it sounds like bullshit. I know I sound like bullshit. I had to be Burke's Labor Secretary for seven years to start my political career. Do you have any idea how much of a banal, low visibility non-job that is? Treasury Sec, Governor of Texas, Senator. It's going to be a cakewalk once we get there. And no one will even remember 2019 ever happened."

[Federal States of Xathuecia]

“Understood Governor.” she responded, tired of speaking already and hating herself for relenting so quickly despite her anger.

“Thank you for calling, do let me know if you need anything.”

"Karen, trust me on this. Baby steps. I know it sounds like bullshit. I know I sound like bullshit. I had to be Burke's Labor Secretary for seven years to start my political career. Do you have any idea how much of a banal, low visibility non-job that is? Treasury Sec, Governor of Texas, Senator. It's going to be a cakewalk once we get there. And no one will even remember 2019 ever happened."

“And I’ll be backed by our new president, President Prendergast.” she mused.

“Thankfully 2019 will be over soon. And we can move on to winning 2020.”

[Gordano and Lysandus]

“And I’ll be backed by our new president, President Prendergast.” she mused.

“Thankfully 2019 will be over soon. And we can move on to winning 2020.”

"You'll have the backing of my White House, and my new RNC Chair, and every bit of apparatus we've set up together. You'll be back stronger than ever."

[Azekopolaltion]

Tim Westra
@WestraNJ
timwestra.com

---

(1) Firstly, I am so eternally grateful for all the people who made this campaign what it is. Westra 2020 volunteers, small donors, and supporters are the reason why the progressive movement is in it for the long haul. Because of you, we were the top fundraiser in the first two successive quarters - without a nickel in PAC or corporate money.

Tim Westra
@WestraNJ
timwestra.com

---

(2) National campaigns are tough. They take both a mental and physical toll. But they are also equally rewarding. The people I had the privilege of listening to - workers, farmers, teachers, parents, and even children - gave me a new understanding of who America is.

Tim Westra
@WestraNJ
timwestra.com

---

(3) My work does not end here. I am proud to have endorsed @JillianDayton today for president, and will do everything in my power to get her elected. In the meantime, the policy plans released by my campaign will stay up on my website, and we will continue to release more plans to drive our politicians and country in a progressive direction even after Election Day.

Tim Westra
@WestraNJ
timwestra.com

---

(4) It has been the honor of my lifetime to serve as Senator for my beloved state, New Jersey. I will serve out my term in accordance with the wishes of my constituents. But I intend to stay involved even after the conclusion of this campaign and my Senate tenure. We will be keeping you updated in the weeks to come. Until then, #WorkersFirstAlways #WinWithWestra #Dayton2020

[Gordano and Lysandus]

Speaker Carrie Simone
@MadamSpeaker

---

Tim Westra is a dear friend and a valued colleague to me, and it is a shame to see his campaign come to an end after all the energy and warmth he's brought, and the fresh ideas that have helped spur on a rich and rigorous primary. As a major architect of Democratic healthcare policy, his legacy cannot be overstated, and I look forward to working with him in Congress for the remainder of his senatorial term.

[Sarenium]

---

Dayton Rally
November 14, 2019
Las Vegas, NV

---

The event was primed and ready. Corflutes were draping the walls, banners and streamers flew and a stage at the center was left empty and ready. Most of the attendees were members of the hospitality industry, Jillian would address the Culinary Workers Union membership the following day and visit workplaces, tonight was geared at that demographic. Local artists warmed the crowds for the evening rally and Jillian herself smiled as she spoke with her special guest. Then that guest would be whisked away just minutes before being announced on stage. Then he was welcomed with applause, and would deliver his remarks...

---

Tim Westra
Las Vegas, Nevada - Dayton 2020 Rally
November 14th, 2019

---

This was it. A moment Tim knew would have to come sooner or later as he pondered the future of his dormant campaign for the past few months, lying in wait as the primaries neared, but the poll numbers didn't seem to change. He knew his endorsement was valuable, having been a top tier candidate in early states, and now was the time to close ranks around a progressive that would actually give the movement meaning instead of tearing it down by making it a source of ridicule for the rest of the country.

And he had decided who that candidate would be.

He walked onto the stage with a familiar Springsteen song blaring in the background - which was a bit ironic, since he effectively was surrendering by officially dropping out of the race. But since this wasn't a traditional solo drop-out event, but rather an endorsement, he hoped it wouldn't be seen that way.

Tim smiled and waved at the crowd, who looked happier to see him there than Tim had expected. He wasn't sure what Dayton fans thought of him, but he did know that his reputation with female candidates wasn't all that great - in his view unfairly. This move would see to it that history treated him kindly.

"Thank you! Thank you everyone, you all are so kind. Thank you."

"Before I begin my remarks I would just like to offer my endless appreciation for the thousands of volunteers, small donors, and every individual person that powered this campaign. Seriously, we made it this far because of you. You are the reason our movement was the highest fundraiser in the first two quarters of this race, despite not taking a nickel in corporate money. You are the reason why we could advance the discussion about finally eradicating poverty in our nation to the forefront of this election. Because of your hard work and sweat, today the progressive movement is a viable path to refocus our country, not on the needs of a privileged minority, but on the working people that make this nation what it is."

"I am here today because I believe in the Democratic Party. I believe in our power to stand by the grassroots, to stand by the working class, to stand by our activist base. I believe in our party's courage to take on the special interests who would rather see us bickering about our identities rather than focusing on retaking our institutions from their corrupt grasp. I believe in our party's resolve in making big, bold changes to the bedrock of our nation so that the fundamental rights and principles that America was established on are extended to everyone."

"I am here today because I believe in the power of the working class! For the past few years, there has been a class war waged against the working families of this country. A class war waged by corrupt politicians in the White House, and in the Republican Party, who would rather bust unions, maintain wage slavery, and keep working people trapped in a cycle of endless debt and poverty, than demand that the plutocrats start paying their fair share back into the nation that created them!"

"Look at yourselves! You work day in and day out, some of you for over forty hours a week. You pay your taxes. Many of you are proud union members. You work in restaurants, in laundromats, hotels, casinos, and so many more places! And the swamp up in Washington, and the billionaire class, they take advantage of you everyday for these service-based jobs. And in return for what? While your productivity has only been growing in the past few decades, your wages haven't been. Instead the bigwigs are trying to decrease the power of collective bargaining with disastrous Right To Work For Less laws and union busting!"

"Well, no longer. Why do you pay your taxes but Amazon doesn't pay a nickel? Why can Jeff Bezos afford healthcare whenever he needs it but a single hospital bill can send you into debt? Why is it that you apparently have the right to vote, but the corporate-backed cronies seem to win every time?"

"Where I come from we don't beg for our rights. We stand up and take them!"

"The defining issue of our time, and the defining issue for the progress of our people, is how we treat those in our society who have the least! And every time the Democratic Party has been at its best has been when we have stepped back and listened to those closest to the pain. Be it the suffrage movement, the labor movement, the Civil Rights movement, from Wilson to Roosevelt to Johnson, it has been Democrats who have acted on making this country more equal, more just, more fair – when the people have stepped up for them."

"There is one candidate who clearly listens to the people. She has listened when parents have been worried about how they can give their children a quality education. She has listened when young people have worried about how they're gonna pay off the cost of college. She has listened to veterans when it seems like their country has turned its back on them when they were willing to give everything for it. She has listened to the elderly who are worried about their retirement security. She has listened to the next generation, who don't even know if they will have a secure planet in the future!"

"She has made it her life's mission to put fairness first. And when she's identified a problem, she doesn't just talk about it. She gets to work, without losing sight of her progressive values."

"Friends, my campaign might have ended. But our movement has not. And for all these reasons, I am proud to say fully and sincerely that I endorse my friend Senator Jillian Dayton for President of the United States of America!"

"Jillian is as tough as they get. In her story, raised by a working class family in a waterfront city, I see my own background, raised by a working class family in a small manufacturing town. In her values, I see my own. That you treat people with respect. That you recognize the dignity of work. That you stay humble and grounded even if you reach high places. That you're honest and transparent with the people you represent. That you tackle issues by listening, not running your ideological mouth."

"We can all see ourselves in Jillian Dayton. Because Jillian is one of us. She knows what it means to struggle. She knows what it means to be underestimated. She knows what it means to beat the odds. How do you get more American than that?"

"There are folks in this race who are acting like they've already been coronated. One male candidate has even promised to select a woman vice presidential nominee! Well, you know what? I've been listening to both female supporters and female critics all over the country. And from what I gather, women are sick and tired of being gifted a side seat at the table!"

"If Mike Veléz truly believes in representation and progress towards our first woman president, then he should join me in closing ranks around this woman. Because she isn't just a woman. The breadth of experience that Jillian brings to this election - as a House legislator, as a Governor, and now as a United States Senator - is unmatched by anyone in this race. And frankly, should she be elected, she would be the most qualified and capable president in modern American history! I trust her to lead us to a better place!"

"Jillian is a real one, I know that better than anybody. When I was drafting the Affordable Care Act back in 2009, she was right at my side, pushing the public option clause that I wrote. Because Jillian knows that if you're sick and your insurer is not doing right by you, that shouldn't prevent you from getting the care you need. In a modern, moral, wealthy society, no one should be too poor to live! And with her leadership, which will push for a public option that is provided at no cost to the poor, we can finally join the rest of the developed world in providing healthcare as a human right to our population."

"She's had real success in providing higher education as a right to all Virginians who want one! There is no one in this race that has actually done more for young people than Senator Dayton. Jillian understands that in the future economy that we all know is coming, nothing can prepare someone better than having the skills - from higher education or vocational training - to stay competitive. Fairness First means equal opportunity!"

"And Jillian has the guts to taken on the big money interests to do what's right for America! She's done it as Governor by ensuring that the wealthy of her state start paying their fair share. And she'll do it again as President. The drug companies, the insurance companies, the financial industry, the oil companies - they will, excuse my French, shit their pants if she becomes President! That's what we want to finally see, folks."

"Jillian does not take working people for granted. Unlike some people in this race, who think they can manipulate and own the vote of the working class through demagoguery, Jillian actually cares about solving your problems, not forcing an ideology on us. She has been speaking to unions and workers all over the country. She will end destructive Right To Work for Less laws that enslave workers, she will fight to bolster union membership by removing corporate-created obstacles that prevent collective bargaining, and she will finally lead a government that is of the workers, by the workers, and for the workers! Because if there is a class war in this country, it is about damn time the working class won that war!"

"Jillian understands the threat that climate change poses not just to our nation, but the world. She is ready to recreate both our domestic and foreign policy so that America leads the world in reaching 100% renewable energy, creates millions of good-paying union jobs in the process, and secures a future that is free from fires that burn our houses down, storms that blow our roofs away, and floods that sink our homes. The next generation has a right to live in a clean and peaceful planet, and Jillian understands this."

"Jillian understands that it's time we reprioritize government spending on saving lives and helping our people at home, rather than taking lives and bombing people abroad. We need to invest in American roads, American schools, American industry, and American waterways, rather than F-35 jets and missiles used in regime change wars that actually make the world less safe rather than safer."

"Jillian knows the impact of history on marginalized communities, particularly the African-American community, and she is ready to listen to leaders on day one to take an integrative approach in securing social justice and breaking down institutions of systemic inequities in our country. Whether it's in policing, criminal justice, jobs, education, or housing, Jillian is ready to listen to black Americans and guarantee a truly holistic approach in providing reparations for this nation's original sin of slavery and institutionalized racism."

"Friends, a better world is possible. The problems we face don't define us as a nation. I believe America is the greatest country on Earth. But she is only great because she is defined by how we solve our problems! The day we give up, and say 'it's too hard,' and become too afraid to pursue structural reforms, is the day we will no longer have the right to call ourselves great."

"Like me, like you, Jillian Dayton believes in the power of the Democratic Party and the American Dream. It may not exist right now, but we can make the dream a reality. We just need some solidarity, we need a lot of effort, we need heart, we need hope, and together, my friends, we will change this country for the better."

"But before we do that, we have to get Jillian Dayton elected. And so here's my ask of you. Do not get complacent. The Dayton campaign is rising in the polls. The momentum is with us. But even if Jillian is recognized as capable, as qualified, as competent, as kind, it's not enough to guarantee a win."

"Wins don't just happen. We have to work for them. So please, join me in working with Jillian to retake the White House for you. Your fight is our fight, and our fight is your fight. Sign up to knock on doors, to phone bank, to text voters, or chip in even 5 bucks to help boost this campaign. We win when we organize, and I am dedicated to helping the Dayton Campaign out-organize every last candidate in this race, just as I did with my own."

"If you believe in equity, if you believe in solidarity, if you believe in fairness - then join us and fight for what you believe in. Thank you everyone, God bless you, and God bless America!"

"And now, without further ado, let me turn this over to the woman we've been waiting for, the next president of these United States...my friend, my colleague, and our candidate - Jillian Dayton!"

---

Dayton Rally
November 14, 2019
Las Vegas, NV

---

Jillian entered the view, embracing Tim warmly, they turned to wave to the crowds before she leaned and sincerely thanked him, she then turned to face the crowds.

"Thank you, thank you," Jillian smiled, "well hello Vegas!"

She turned to the crowds that filled the podium behind the lectern, "as far as southern manners teach me, I'm obliged to say I'm sorry for my back," she grinned as the crowds laughed at the casual nature of her remarks, "but hey, you have my back and I'll have yours."

"Folks, I gotta thank Tim, I want to make it really clear that I appreciate Tim's endorsement. I can't tell you how much it means to me, and I know that working Americans want to be heard, I promise I'll never stop listening. On the day that Tim announced his run for President, he didn't do it in a ballroom, or a garden, no he did it from a podium surrounded by real hard working American workers. It was at that exact moment that I knew Tim spoke for people, not Wall Street. He was union proud, union strong and union backed. I'm honoured, Senator, I'm honoured, Tim, to have your support," she meant it, her voice showed that. Claps rose up before she spoke again.

"Now, we have a real chance. A real opportunity to make the necessary change. Change doesn't come in the form of lopsided wall street tax cuts. It doesn't come from candidates who'll sign away our wages in free trade deals. It won't be delivered by a man who hasn't once passed a shred of his platform. It's delivered when ordinary Americans speak up, when we vote, when we say, enough is enough. When we say that we demand our rights now," Jillian kept the details light, the main objectives of this was to scoop up the Westra voters while simultaneously avoiding the slightest appearance of pivoting left.

"Friends, in February you'll all have a choice. You can choose wordy antics with no real path to success in Levi Murphy. You can choose a return to failed free trade policies in Mike Velez. Or, you can choose to fight for a higher minimum wage, you can choose choice with a healthcare expansion plan, you can choose choice with a college affordability plan that's working right now in Virginia and has the chops to work nationwide, you can choose a meaningful path to put home ownership back in folk's life plans and out of life dreams. If we want a nominee who'll help keep Caroline Simone Speaker of the House, who'll help take back the Senate of the United States, who'll defeat four more years of Wolfist politics, then join us. If we want to build on Bahariacare, take on the NRA, fight for middle and working class Americans, then folks join us," Jillian concluded the louder part of her speech, "thank you, thank you all!"

She stepped back, an arm around Tim as they embraced once again, this time she raised his hand in unity as she embarked on her plan to unite the Democratic Party.

[Sarenium]

Jillian Dayton
@JillianDayton

---

Honored to be joined by @WestraNJ in our pursuit of a Fairer America, one that puts #FairnessFirst.

Jillian Dayton
@JillianDayton

---

Kickstarting NevadaWeek with events in Vegas and Henderson today, Carson City, Reno and Yerington tomorrow then it's off to Elko, Minden, Ely and Hawthorne (and dozens of stops in between) check out the schedule on our website.

[Kallidrus]

The Capitol
Washington D.C.
November 12, 2019

Patrick paused for a moment, then sighed. He knocked on the Minority Leader's door.

[Dentali]

Wallace: Welcome back to the all night coverage of the Louisiana Gubernatorial Election, I’m Chuck Wallace. Polls have been closed for several hours now and the ballots from early voting are almost done being counted. We are going to go live now to Craig Benfield who is at the Holland campaign watch party. Craig whats the energy level like there?

Benfield: Chuck I would call it nervous optimism, the results so far are good and the polls up to this point have been encouraging but its going to be a long night and no one wants to jinx it.

Wallace: We have some interesting numbers coming in regarding the African American vote, in 2014 Governor Long took close to 99% of the African American vote but it appears to have dropped considerably this time around.

Benfield: Indeed, Holland has been a strong voice in the African American community for decades now and it was always part of the strategy to undermine Long’s hold on the African American vote. If you’re a democrat running in the South you need black voters, and you need them turning out in big numbers. Holland is going to be winning a lot of those voters over or convincing them that he is not worth turning out against, it doesn’t help that African American voters tend to be a bit more conservative than most democrats and Long’s shift to the left dampened enthusiasm in the community.

Wallace: We are also seeing less turnout in general among the population which does tend to hurt Democrats more than Republicans. We are getting more numbers Craig but we will check back in with you later… Now we are going to turn back to Markus Delmotte, our election analyst. Markus I understand we are at 60% reporting?

Dalmotte: Yes Chuck at 60% reporting the Holland lead has shrunk to 53.12% to 46.88% as more Democratic areas roll in and the early votes are counted. You need to remember that while Governor Long definitely will win the African American vote in 2015 he didn’t turn them out as much as you’d think, he won on a populist message and a style not too different than president Wolf, even attacking Diane Clifford as a ‘loser globalist’. His white working class appeal was his strength in 2015 but that has been largely co-opted by President Wolf and the Republican party. It does not appear Governor Long thought he needed to change his strategy too much to win in 2019 but right now its not looking good. What he really needs to do is get big turnout in Baton Rouge and New Orleans who have reported a relatively small amount of ballots so far.

Wallace: Are you surprised at all that Long hasn’t pulled over more moderate Republicans? He is fairly pro-second amendment, pro life, and wants to build a border wall.

Dalmotte: Problem with that is if your priorities lie in those issues then voters think Holland will do a better job addressing them. Especially when you have the rest of the Republican party backing him on that. And right now without a doubt the main litmus test for where you fall on the political spectrum is healthcare more than any other issue. Long is firmly and publicly for Medicare for All, and most voters automatically associate that with the progressive end of the party, not the conservative end.

Wallace: Thank’s Markus, we will check back in with you throughout the night. For now we turn to….

[Lavan Tiri]

(Image) Rep. Kevin Villalobos @ElDiablo Sen. Colbert had me until he lost his spine. (Image)

(Image) Rep. Kevin Villalobos @ElDiablo Paint will dry on a wall and Martin Spellman will still find an excuse to turn it into a campaign ad. Just the desperate state of left-wing politics for you right there. (Image)

Liked and retweeted by @JasonFromSD

Representative Jason Evander
@JasonFromSD

My heart goes out to the Wolf family during this troubling time. It can't be easy to watch a loved one suffer the way President Wolf is.

However, Arnold Wolf is not just a beloved husband and father: he is the President of the United States of America. And for months the USA has been left in the dark regarding his condition and his capacity.

I am officially in support of Sen. Moore's call for the President to undergo examination w/regard to his capacity to fill his office. It's unfortunate and unpleasant, but the silence from VP Tawney, the First Lady, and Chairwoman Wolf has left the USA and the GOP scrambling in the dark.

[The Orion Islands]

Official Statement from the Office of Utah Senator Everitt Colbert

In recent days I have been under a large amount of stress, from my personal life, from my position, and from Tuesday's disappointing results. As a result I made many irrational comments calling for the resignation of President Arnold Wolf and Chairwoman Lilyana Wolf. I subsequently appeared on MSNBC after I had 20 minutes of sleep the previous evening. I was unable to fully comprehend the questions due to my sleep deprived state and I have found that MSNBC knew this full well to make me out to be an ardent anti-Wolfist. I regret both my tweets and the interview and I apologize sincerely to anyone who was offended. I will now dedicate my time to writing bills to help Utah and electing Republicans to Congress in 2020, measures that are fully supported by both President Wolf and Chairwoman Wolf.

[Azekopolaltion]

---

Tim Westra
Philomath, Ohio - Spellman Family Home
November 16th, 2019

---

Finally bowing out of the race had granted Tim with an unfamiliar feeling of relief. He felt freer, like a heavy burden had been released from his shoulders. He wasn't one to be insincere or self-censored, even in his official campaign speeches - as Mike Veléz knew too well - but even then, he did feel he could discuss things now without feeling so constrained by the limits of what is considered acceptable as a Democratic presidential candidate.

Immediately after his joint rally with Dayton, which he felt had been quite a successful affair, Tim immediately hopped on a shitty direct flight from Las Vegas to Eugene, Oregon. He was in the Beaver State not for a meeting with his friend Senator Doyle, but the other, more charismatic West Coaster in this election - Dr. Martin Spellman.

Tim didn't know the man too well, but his quirky campaign for president and solid performance in the debates had certainly caught Tim's attention, as well as the media's. Rumor had it that Spellman was now searching for an exit from the national race to open up some new avenues - and Tim had some propositions for him.

He approached Martin's door and rang the bell, a bottle of Californian wine from the airport in his left hand. Tim really didn't know anything about alcohol but it seemed good enough. He waited outside patiently.

[Greater Arab State]

The Capitol
Washington D.C.
November 12, 2019

(Image)

Patrick paused for a moment, then sighed. He knocked on the Minority Leader's door.

The House Minority Leader was sat at his desk, reading through a number of bills that were on the House docket, his mind also contemplating the results of the down ballot elections and there implications further along the line. Soon after however, he heard a knock in his office door, looking over at his office clock and having an idea as to who it would be, he elected to walk towards the office door himself and open it rather than having his secretary do so. Opening the door, he saw that it was Congressman Patrick.

“Ah, it’s good of you to make it, Representative. Come in please.” The House Minority Leader said as he smiled and stepped back in order to allow the South Carolinian to step into the office.

[Federal States of Xathuecia]

“And I’ll be backed by our new president, President Prendergast.” she mused.

“Thankfully 2019 will be over soon. And we can move on to winning 2020.”

"You'll have the backing of my White House, and my new RNC Chair, and every bit of apparatus we've set up together. You'll be back stronger than ever."

"Thank you Governor, you've got my word I'll stay put." she responded, before ending the call with a simple word.

"Good-bye."

[Federal States of Xathuecia]

Dawson sat down across from him once the handshake was over.

"No worries, I have always enjoyed these meetings. Like the gathering of our conservative war council." he quipped as he smiled and chuckled.

“Yes, that is certainly true.” The House Minority Leader agreed, chuckling in reply as he then continued.

“I must admit, I do wish we were having this meeting in better times, what with some of the recent election results this year. Hopefully though we’ll be able to address a number of the issues that have come up within the Republican Party as of late.”

"And put forth our plan for 2020. We cannot afford a defeat like 2008 or 2018. We must hold steady, already we've given up too much ground and too much money in failures."

Abernathy fixed his jacket as he leaned back, reviewing the room.

[Federal States of Xathuecia]

---

Spellman Family Home
Philomath, Oregon
November 16th, 2019

---

---

Martin had seen the news. One of the race's major players had just capitulated and endorsed the rising Virginian senator, a clear shake up for the race. And it had only made him question his own political propsects. If Westra had taken an opportunty to leave the race, what was keeping someone like himself invested still? Moreso when further polling had revealed his political strength was sporadic and even in the bastion of the West Coast, his numbers were hardly top tier materials. Not to mention internal numbers that had shown that if he intended to launch some sort of bid for Senate right here, it would be an even more uphill battle that he had initially expected.

Alas, Spellman was not a politician nor an insider in the entire process. He relied ultimately on his own gut feelings, the facts presented to him, and his network of advisors. And right now, none of the options laid out in front of him had particularly moved him to one side or the other. So he waited in his dining room, reviewing the clear forest light shining through the cold, crisp air and onto the table in front of him. Beautiful and far simpler than the political environment he had found himself in currently. Hopefully Tim Westra could shine his own advice to illuminate what Marty should do. Or at least present a clearer picture he mused as the door rang. Opening the front door, he smiled and offered his charismatic greeting.

"Hello Senator, I'm glad we're finally meeting somewhere that's not a debate stage. No more one-liners for us." he offered with a chuckle.

[Kallidrus]

The Capitol
Washington D.C.
November 12, 2019

(Image)

Patrick paused for a moment, then sighed. He knocked on the Minority Leader's door.

The House Minority Leader was sat at his desk, reading through a number of bills that were on the House docket, his mind also contemplating the results of the down ballot elections and there implications further along the line. Soon after however, he heard a knock in his office door, looking over at his office clock and having an idea as to who it would be, he elected to walk towards the office door himself and open it rather than having his secretary do so. Opening the door, he saw that it was Congressman Patrick.

“Ah, it’s good of you to make it, Representative. Come in please.” The House Minority Leader said as he smiled and stepped back in order to allow the South Carolinian to step into the office.

"Thank You,"

He stepped inside, and glanced out the window. "Washington is beautiful this time of year" he said.

[Meelducan]

Republican National Committee Headquarters, Washington, D.C.

After getting a late invite to the meeting, Myles travelled over to the RNC Headquarters with his protection detail. Everything about this had been last minute, but Myles didn't mind. He had led the Republicans to victory before, and he would do so again. Just like the old days.

He entered the headquarters and headed directly to the Chairwoman's office, entering it.