America the Beautiful: An American Political RP (IC)

by **Sarenium** » Wed Sep 22, 2021 4:47 am

CURRENT IC DATE: 21 to 27 February 2021

Welcome to “America the Beautiful”, an American Political and Character RP where players can explore the intricacies of government, from the cloak and dagger politics of the capital, to plainspoken compromise in the heartland, to the gritty in-and-outs of running some of the world’s greatest cities.

The year is 2021, the election is over yet division remains. President Arnold Wolf, one of the most controversial in American history passed away in mid-2020, though his legacy lingers. In the fall, Nathaniel Richardson, Republican Governor of Florida narrowly defeated former Democratic Vice President Robin Diehl Jr. while losing the popular vote. In the House of Representatives, a Republican wave carried on the coattails of a suburbanite President, has unseated Speaker Simone and triggered her early retirement.

The Senate had been split 50-50 before the sudden and tragic death of Republican Senator Jon Ronson, who's seat remains vacant until it can be filled by special election in March, capping the end of the first hundred days with what will be the most important Senate special election, perhaps, in history.

Both sides are angry, yet the stage is set to require their collaboration. As his hand is lifted from the bible, those around, mutter sighs or clap fervently, with a sense of frustration for some or of hope for others. The battle lines are already drawn as in three short months, Wisconsin will decide if control in Washington shall remain split or if the President's party deserves a federal trifecta. Where do you land in this? It is up to you to decide how you will manage in this climate. Will you oppose his policies from the left? Champion them on the right? Or try and chart a middle path amid one of the most polarized periods in American History?

Play in the Cabinet or the inner corridors and echelons of power emanating from the White House. Or choose to be a Senator, Governor, Congressperson, Mayor or any other figure with a hand in today's politics. Or run for office, from dogcatcher to the Presidency to fight for your own slice of the American Political landscape. Create an original character, make history and steer them through... America the Beautiful.

QUICK LINKS
The Out of Character • The Congressional Page • The Congressional Docket
Please note: Roster of Characters is listed on the OOC

THE RULES:

1. The OP's words are the words of the Gods, but these Gods are not infallible, you can argue your position in a civil way but in the end their decision is final.

2. No real people or celebrities as characters. There is no Bernie Sanders that you can play. As per the introductory note, politicians post-Reagan do not exist, or have been replaced with generic stand-ins: you can play them, should you wish. Records and history are the same, including statistics, save in the places where player-characters have brought about a change.

3. Regarding absences- If you, for whatever reason, must take a leave from the roleplay-that is of course fine. But please inform us ahead and how long it may take. If you are found to have just up and left the RP, we may have to simulate how you character act in votes per say, especially depending on their importance.

4. When it comes to writing; please do it well. We expect a certain level of quality with your posts. One or two sentences will not be acceptable, but we can be permissive-if your character is engaged in conversation, a sentence is fine

5. Please make characters of quality and substance. We don't want Mary Sue flawless characters who are 30 year olds, models, former sharecroppers with military service earning a medal of honor and then returning from Iraq to attend Harvard. Those characters aren't very fun to play or interact with. But on the other hand-no sabotage characters. Just because you hate Democrats, don't make a hopelessly corrupt and scandal-ridden Democrat with no redeeming qualities. Character models also have to be googleable, no photoshopped models, if we can't google your character model you can't have them!

6. No cheat-edits. Once you've made an IC post, leave it. Edits to formatting are all right along with typos, but don't try to change anything major compared to what you have already written, especially if it has already been responded to. If your character said it in public, it must stay. Gaffes happen, after all.

7. If you are not sure if something is legal or okay, ask OOC first. Always better to check-and there is limited leniency for things that are obviously bad.

8. No events that directly affect another character without permission first. In essence, avoid physical altercations and outrageous "accidents". Assassination is banned, any external action taken against politicians will take place in the form of an event.

9. No meta-gaming. Do not let the OOC influence the realism of your character's actions. If they are in a closed situation in which information is limited, they cannot state specific statistics, for example.

10. PG-13 limit. Per site-wide rules, nothing too saucy or racy. You know it when you see it.

ADMINISTRATORS
Sarenium (OP) • Dentali • Vaquas • New Cobastheia • Alozia • Greater Arab State • Jovuistan
Administrators are responsible for decision making within the RP, they collectively manage polling, special events and son on. They are your last source of appeal if you have any issue within the RP. Do not hesitate to contact any of the above with any question or issue as you may have.

MODERATORS
Kelvinsi • Velahor
Moderators are involved on an as-needed basis, and help to moderate the OOC/IC and review applications.

THE COMPOSITION

by **Gordano and Lysandus** » Wed Sep 22, 2021 5:51 am

Carrie Simone
@SpeakerSimone
simone.house.gov | New York, NY
Today marks the inauguration of the second Republican President in a row to not enjoy a democratic mandate from the majority of American voters. The authority of American democracy and liberty overseas is wounded every time this occurs, and I pray that - (1/3)
- President-elect Richardson is mindful when he assumes the office of the sentiments of the people he is governing. America yearns for progress on healthcare, preservation of civil and voting rights, and a recovery that serves everyone. - (2/3)
- That must come through bipartisan engagement with the Democratic Senate and Leader Hertzog. The time for business as usual has long since passed. (3/3)

Gene Obradovic
@SenatorObradovic
obradovic.senate.gov | Chicago, IL
There will be no rests or recesses for the United States Senate until meaningful and broad-based action has been taken to redress the deteriorating economic situation - ordinary Americans expect their legislators to work, especially when things come down to the wire. - (1/2)
- This Senate will be a working Senate, and will work on the priorities of the American people, from recession relief to seeking an end to America's forever wars. I invite Speaker Volker to make a similar no recess commitment from the House. (2/2)

by **Sarenium** » Wed Sep 22, 2021 6:33 am

January 19, 2021
Iosif Robert Abernathy
305 Charles Alexander Ct, Alexandria, VA 22301

Iosif Robert Abernathy was an elderly gentleman. That was the nice way of saying, he's old. He's so old that he has a pager, and struggles to use his government approved smartphone. He woke up in his Arlington townhouse at 6.30AM, as usual. He hobbled over towards the bathroom, shaved, brushed his teeth, and then took his shower. He stepped out of the shower, removed his sleeping robe and pajamas before donning a suit of his choosing. Today he liked the grey. Like every other day. He selected a more colorful pastel pink and blue tie, and then chose his watch for the day. Willard Burman, his diligent butler entered at promptly 6.50AM, on the dot.

"Good morning, sir," he said with a smile.

Abernathy only liked one person around him, this was the person, "good morning, Mr. Burman," he replied.

"Breakfast is ready in the dining room, as are your papers. Shall I send anything over to the office this afternoon, sir?"

As usual, Willard picked out the suit jacket for the appropriate suit as Bob began moving towards the door. Simultaneously, Willard extracted his lint brush and gave the jacket a good once over. He would follow Bob downstairs, as Bob began eating his breakfast. Three poached eggs, two fat-free streaks of bacon, one slice of sourdough, a triple shot coffee and to top it all off, an apple. Willard placed the jacket on the coat holder by the door, and went about his duties, cleaning, polishing, and tending to Bob's needs as Bob began reading the papers. He used to read actual papers, but now he read them on his little tablet.

From The New York Times:
PRESIDENT-ELECT RICHARDSON TAKES OFFICE AS MORE THAN 11% OF AMERICANS LOOK FOR JOBS
By Anna Borshin & Ben Dover
January 19, 2021

As Washington prepares to inaugurate a new President, Americans across the nation look with anxious anticipation to Washington. Hopeful, angry, or tired, the nation finds itself yearning for relief. Tomorrow, the President will take office, and find Washington as divided as the nation. The Senate, 50 Democrats to 49 Republicans, the House? 222 Republicans to 213 Democrats. The report card economically is anything but positive, as the economy contracted by almost a full percentage (-0.92%) in Q4 of 2020. The uninsured rate is at 16.39% and that will climb if currently temporary emergency provisions aren't made permanent. An unemployment rate of 11.64%, and a President who got the second most votes. The nation is right to look to Washington with anxiety, the hope of respite is slim, albeit, thankfully present.
See More

From Politico:
WILL A PRESIDENT RICHARDSON END THE TRADE WAR?
By Tess Tickle
January 17, 2021

For a year, China has slapped inordinately high tariffs on American exports. The consequence was felt immediately, and while companies began to adjust and brace for it's impact, one health insurer tumbled. With the fall of the stocks of Junicare and Crossblue Shield in February, capped by Junicare in March and then Crossblue Shield in April, declaring bankruptcy; by May the uninsured rate climbed. Simultaneously, the tariff war escalated and by mid-May, unemployment had climbed to over 8%. With the onset of the Marlon Ward protests from the end of May, Americans entered fall ignoring the ongoing trade war. Those who didn't ignore it are overseas, our allies and China itself. While Congress rescued the economy from complete collapse, the hike in tariffs was escalated as recently as November, leaving no sector of the American economy untouched by Chinese tariffs, and giving President-elect Richardson the inheritance of a gargantuan economic, foreign policy and societal dilemma.
See More

From The National Review:
THE END OF THE TAWNEY ERA
By Frieda Slaves
January 19, 2021

President Tawney leaves office tomorrow having served as President for less than a year. In that year he has deftly managed an economic and societal crisis that he didn't create. While some would apply blame to the outgoing President, others would grant him appreciation and approval for his deft management in passing two stopgap relief bills through a cautious Republican Senate and a carefree Democratic House. No doubt, both bills were insufficient to brace the country for the last round of Chinese tariffs placed in November of 2020, but they are a credit to his foresight for they have prevented what surely would have become a depression. As President Tawney leaves, perhaps leaving a larger than life shadow on his Republican successor, Americans can thank him for his dignity, sincerity and diligence when in office.
See More

He grumbled at all of them, the nicest one wasn't even about his boss. Nobody wanted to talk about the gaping problem. There was a hostile Senate, an angry, hostile Senate and all the moderate Democrats in the world wouldn't change that. There was a foreign policy dilemma of epic proportions. While domestically, the entire country sat on a knife's edge. He finished his breakfast, and stood, on the dot, 7.00AM.

He approached the door, and Willard placed the suit jacket on his boss, and then extracted the cufflinks he had selected for the day. Plain steel black ribbed links. He gave Willard a curt nod, and exited the house. Ready to turn those headlines into something nicer. As he sat in the car, his staff sent him another three, these were the nice ones. He clicked one, that one he liked. He liked it a lot.

by **Yaruqo** » Wed Sep 22, 2021 6:48 am

Rep. Oliver Miller
@RepMillerKS
miller.house.gov | Overland Park, KS

Once again, Americans will wake up today to a Republican President who lacks a popular, democratic mandate to govern. Americans in my district and around the country voted for bold, systemic approaches and resolutions to the recession, democracy reform, healthcare… (1/2)

…the climate crisis, and inequality. Democrats are prepared to bring legislation to the halls of Congress and state legislatures around the country to improve the lives and futures of all Americans, a striking contrast to Arnold Wolf’s GOP. (2/2)

by **Sarenium** » Wed Sep 22, 2021 8:25 am

Senior Staff 19th of January, 2021
Attendees of this meeting are: Bob Abernathy (WH Chief of Staff), Leanne Sparkmaine (WH Deputy Chief of Staff), Bryan Burgess (WH Press Secretary), Donovan Miller (WH Comms Director), Vernon Glebeman (WH Deputy Comms Director), & Lee Metzler (WH Director of Legislative Affairs)
The below was written in joint collaboration with Gordano & Lysandus
Some of these characters are only used when relevant and are members of the WH Staff, there are no applications though skeleton apps describing their existence may be put up by me or Dent at a future date.

Bob entered the room that would qualify as his office until they moved into the White House tomorrow, with a look of frustration, “not one headline mentions the President-elect without acknowledging an 11% unemployment rate,” he placed his bag by the side of his desk and took off his overcoat which Willard had tactfully placed in the car ahead of his departure. He looked at Bryan and Leanne expecting some sort of explanation.

Bryan was mid-yawn at the point when Bob essentially stormed in, rubbing his eyes. He hadn’t drunk last night, but by God, he wished he had. Looking at the incoming Chief of Staff wearily, he shook his head. “I can lead the donkeys to water, Bob, but I can’t make them drink. I’m hammering home that the President-elect’s laser-focused on recovery efforts but I’m not actually in the loop on what we’re doing yet.”

Leanne for her part hummed agreement. Bob placed his glasses on, and looked to Donovan and Vernon, “is the speech ready?”

The expression that Donovan pulled was world-weary enough for a man who had yet to clear forty, giving a languid nod before rustling through a folder and handing it over to Bob, “Here’s the working text we have so far. Ready is a subjective term, you know how keen the President-elect is on doing things his way.”

“I spoke to him last night, he seemed happy with it, though I expect he’ll have changes for me by lunchtime,” Vernon replied.

“Cabinet confirmations?”

“Defense needs a waiver, so that’ll take some time but by the end of the week we should be on track there. AG and Treasury are holdovers, not-Brown has his first hearing tomorrow afternoon for State. Everything else is going to take more than the first week,” Lee replied somewhat dejected.

Bob paid no attention to what Lee said as he narrowed on a line alluding to Bill Clifford. “What the fuck is this?” Bob asked matter-of-factly, “why the fuck is there, ‘Let us speak the language of Franklin Roosevelt or John F Kennedy or Bill Clifford’, in this speech? What are we? The sucking Democrats’ dick party?”

Donovan’s expression became increasingly bleak by this point, a general paleness overtaking him, shaking his head with feverish defensiveness, “It reflects the tone and… desires expressed by the President-elect. Believe me, both Vernon and I counselled on a more reliable Republican allegory, but you’ll probably need to fight the FDR battle with him. He listens to you, Bob.”

Bob for his part continued reading, he closed it and sighed, “I imagine the President-elect has already settled on most of the direction for this. Leanne,” he gestured.

Leanne knew her part here, “today we have some public appearances, none of us are needed or present in any of them, except for you Bryan, you’re in all of them.”

She paused for a light chuckle, “Bryan you also have a national security briefing here, with me and Bob regarding Afghanistan.”

“Though they’ll kick you out before anything sensitive comes up,” Bob mused.

“Most of today is going to be telephoning, we have a draft for a Relief Act and we’ve been asked by a number of Republican Senators to look into their personal projects,” Leanne gestured to Lee.

Lee cleared his throat awkwardly as he was put on the spot, striking up on the various points he was being asked about, “Right, so if Hertzog won’t play ball, getting ten votes on the Relief Act shouldn’t be out of the realm of possibility, but I know the President-elect wants to touch base with a few Democratic Senators personally on that end. The Endless Frontier Act should make it through both houses but I’m going to check in with Speaker Volker before I count my chickens - though this is one of Feyrer’s, so watch out for any wildcards that might pop up around that one. You know what she’s like.”

Bob stood, “reliable, cheerful and a bundle of positive forward thinking policymaking?”

Continuing, Lee gave a nod and a sardonic smile at Bob’s comment, “Oh yes, positively brimming with good will. Anyway, the Democrats are making another push on wages in the Senate. Not sure if it’ll pass on their margins but Wisconsin might change that. Expect some noise about the Defense waiver, but not enough to put it in any danger. Only nominee I’d be worried about right now is Eliza Wolf.”

“I thought we had not-Manchin happy to support her for some extra lines about being friendly to the Wolfs?” Bob frowned.

“She might just end up as the sacrificial lamb, there’s almost always one, boss. We both know that not-Manchin changes his mind whenever it suits him. I’ll keep in touch with him but if Hertzog decides he’s against it, it’ll be a tug of war.”

Bob moved over to the coffee machine in the corner of his office and poured himself his third morning coffee, “The President-elect has agreed to defer to party leadership on the Relief Act. Bryan, and Donovan, will the press let us hand over the reins informally by simply throwing it in their direction by constantly talking about Speaker Volker and Senator Hertzog?”

It was Bryan who responded first to that question, taking another swig of a large polystyrene cup of water. “That depends entirely on how it goes. If it’s a short term thing, and it pays off? We’re high and dry. If something jams up the works, there’ll be questions about why the President hasn’t done more to respond to the crisis. I can field those, blame Democrats, whatever, but we’re on a timer.”

“How about this? Tomorrow afternoon, we say that ‘the President-elect is facilitating multi-leveled dialogue between Republicans and Democrats on the hill to secure a broad bipartisan relief package’,” Bob said off the top of his head.

Donovan gave a nod, looking a bit more hale and hearty now that they were talking about something other than the inaugural address, “I think my team and Bryan’s can spin that easily. Is he doing that?”

“Jack Vichter, William Rogers and I think not-Hassan, have all taken the President-elect’s calls and have been asked to sit down with him one-on-one,” Bob nodded, “if it yields fruit, is another question entirely.”

Bryan seems happy with that, “That’s enough to keep most outlets happy. And means I can definitely pin it on the other side if things go south.”

“With regards to Deb Feyrer, she has sent her RSVP, the giantess is attending in all her glory,” Bob read off his little piece of paper, “she’s taken her eerily well positioned seat and will also be asked to meet with the President sometime in the second week. That one much more discreet than the bipartisan ones,” Bob looked at Bryan.

“There’s no reason it should become a story,” Bryan shrugged lightly before returning to his water, whilst Lee glanced up at Bob quizzically.
“Don’t they uh… not like each other very much?”

“The President collaborates and cooperates with everyone in the Republican Senate and House Conferences,” Bob replied, word for word off the talking points, “yes they have disagreements, but she would happily hold up Ambassadors from confirmation over their ex-wife’s dog’s childhood predilections,” he looked around.

“Right, is that all?” Bob looked around, ready for last questions.

Donovan and Lee nod, though Bryan shakes his head, “What’re the top three priorities I’m listing off at my next press briefing? I’m guessing the economy is one, but what’s the picture of the President’s broader agenda I’m painting?”

“Rebuilding the American Economy to better manage the challenges of an emerging China,” Bob said, “getting Americans to work to beat the reds,” Bob placed his glasses down, “it’s all very nostalgic. For now, focus on one issue at a time and convey the stability the President is attempting to create.”

“Got it, so just gonna hammer that home and damn the torpedoes,” Bryan nodded, “That’s all from me.”

“Out you get,” Bob gestured towards the door into his office as he opened his laptop, “before I forget! The President has asked to meet with us all tomorrow morning, before church and the ceremony and all. As a collective senior staff. If you’re late, you’re fired,” he smiled as they all filed out.

by **Sao Nova Europa** » Wed Sep 22, 2021 9:06 am

by **Newne Carriebean7** » Wed Sep 22, 2021 10:24 am

Cedar Grove, Mississippi
January 17, 2021
If one was to peek into this particular bed-room of a middle aged woman, one would find it quite easy to do, seeing as she dismisses locks, save only on her political dojos of solitude known as her office on the hill. The red drapes were drawn back, bringing in god's natural light into the room and the shape of a mopped, brown headed curled woman face down in a pillow.

"Come on, git up." Sylvester Norrington, Durant's chief of staff pined at the logs of two white legs that only groaned at the time.

"Five more minutes..." The shape was thought to mumble. "Y'all never let me she-sleep inn.. Your mean..."
Norrington simply sat beside the bed and rubbed her head.

"Now, now, were you not elected by the people of Cedar Grove to not sit on your ass?"

A muffled voice was heard before Maxine Caroline Durant reluctantly sat up from the bedside, her eyes adjusting to the invading light that poured into the room akin to water from a sinking ship filling up the compartments. She rubbed her eyes in frustration as Norrington handed her a small Dixie cup. Taking a large swig in appreciation, she was evidently still half-awake.
"Y'know..." She began, thoughts still trying to mobilize inside her brain as the gears started turning once more following a nine hour shut-off cycle. "...Coffee would've been better. Why not have that inna thems mornin's? Fucking hell..."

"Max, if I had given you pipin' hot coffee, you've sworn like a...congresswoman, or a Durant." Norrington replied with a sly grin on his face, narrowly dodging the pillow Maxine had thrown at him at the comment. The pillow landed with a thud on one-side, knocking over a picture frame of Durant and Miles on their wedding day. With a sigh, Maxine stretched, brushed her teeth, took a shower, got dressed and was out of her bedroom within a half hour. Just before she went downstairs, she quickly ducked into a side-room that, on the outside, resembled a bank vault. She pressed a few buttons that the woman had easily memorized before she swung the large door open with a feminine grunt of sorts.

The room was rather shallow, but it did hold the needed "home defense equipment" according to her campaign contributors and friends at the National Rifle Association. A Pair of .22 long rifles flanked at least four handguns in various calibers. Several neatly organized boxes of .22 rounds, .45 rounds and .38 rounds marched about in the center of the room. Taking a step in-side, she gingerly picked up the long rifle and looked down the site. She wasn't stupid, so her hands never went around the trigger, and she made damn sure to treat it as if it was loaded (which she always kept one of her long rifles loaded but with the safety on.)

She briefly poked her head outside the gun safe to take a long gander outside of the frozen window, as the snow finally stopped falling on the ground. She wanted to go shooting. She could have sworn she had some fruit that was defeated in a landslide by the party of "lack of refrigeration". But, she shook her head. As much as she would have liked to relax more, that was what she had done last Christmas break. Now, she had to get back to work for Mississippians, rather than go off and shoot guns in the swamps.

"Hell, Maxine, maybe you'll bag yourself a damn gator!" She thought happily as she put the firearm away, cradling the weapon like a couple would their newborn child, and relocked the safe room of delicate boom sticks as stealthily as she could.

A large series of steady thump, thump, thumps were heard by any keen ears (and even the deaf, unfortunately for them) as Maxine strode down the stairs and into the dining room. She passed by the microwave, it's clock glowed it's bright green lettering to 8:45 AM. Maxine seethed as she plumped her skinny frame in the dining room, a physical newspaper parked right besides her, taking bites of waay too dry toast in-between sips of equally piss-poor constructed black coffee.
"That damned Norry can't do nothin' right..." The middle-aged representative hissed venomously under her breath as she took a moment to contemplate things.

While most people would have a plethora of applications on their smart devices, Maxine had gone out and bought the cheapest one to use for "Congressional business" while she also held onto a physical landline that went through the Cedar Grove home. She felt humiliation at the older than she usually felt (or would care to admit, for that matter) in having to explain to even the modest man in his thirties or early twenties what a land-line" and "dial-up internet' were.

She reluctantly slid on a pair of rather thick looking glasses and began to clack away at the screen for a moment or two.

"Aaannd, send! Hah, I did a 'tweety-tweet.' "

"Right, don't you feel right special. How about using the energy you use to tweet and convert that into 'getting into your car and driving back to D.C' kind of energy?" Norrington partially pleaded with her.

Maxine scoffed at the news before flicking her mop of brown hair, grabbing her purse and motioning her to follow him outside. They both clambered into the back seat of Maxine's elderly Pick-up truck as the Representative tore up the dirt path that lead to the old plantation home which she stayed at. She could have sworn it had been on this property since Jefferson Davis was born. She definitely knew there were slaves on there, at least based from grainy pictures that hung above the walls. Throughout the car-ride and owing to the lack of a heater, the windows remained frosty, yet firmly locked in place. Another set of back-firings made Norrington grip onto the side doors for comfort and security, especially when the representative took the corner waaay too fast than what would have reasonably been allowed. She looked around and shrugged.

"I don't see no cops, so y'all best hold onto your ass."

Maxine Durant
@MaxineDurant2

The only "Racial Inequity" I see are Democrats using "racism" as an excuse to attack the right. Smart folks like me and you KNOW "global warming" is a myth. If it's gettin' so hot, why are there seasons? Answer me that, mister "science man"! Dick will be a GREAT PRESIDENT!

#Makes You Think #MYPOTUS

RETWEETSFAVORITE
171394

8:56 am - 1/18/2021

by **Gordano and Lysandus** » Wed Sep 22, 2021 12:19 pm

Representative Caroline Simone
Washington, District of Columbia
Wednesday 20th January, 2021

Caroline never wore black unless it was a somber occasion.

Every time her eyes flicked over the embossed card inviting her as a member of Congress to President Richardson's inauguration, it sent a wave of unpleasant, malignant sensations through her. It wasn't because of anything necessarily that the man himself had done. Far from it, it was more the compounding of so many things that other people had done - or hadn't. Robin Diehl hadn't convinced the voters. She hadn't cemented the unity and image of congressional Democrats. And despite every structural hurdle, Caroline couldn't help but blame herself in no small part for the gridlock on legislation in the latter stages of the 116th Congress that had helped spell a death knell for their majority and for her Speakership. It marked choppy waters ahead, as a Republican House majority, conservative Democrats in the Senate, and a Republican President threatened every stage of the economic recovery she had hoped to foster - and laid the potential ground for the next crisis if - and likely it was to be - mismanaged. There we no getting around it - at the final hurdle, the Democrats had failed the country. They had failed to overcome the hurdles before them to secure the power necessary to drag it out of the worst economic crisis since the Great Recession.

And what hurdles those were - Republican state governments seeking every means at their disposal to secure minority rule with an Apartheid-adjacent zeal, a media environment that treated every act of Republican partisan malice as maverick brilliance, the crumbling but not dead architecture of Jim Crow that seized and jammed up every organ of government... Dragons she had vowed to slay. Well, they had had the final laugh, hadn't they?

Eleven percent unemployment. Millions out of work and starving and in the cold. Many thousands of them would, without the broad-based intervention of the Federal government, die. They needed a recovery plan in excess of that passed by President Baharia to somehow navigate a legislature and executive hostile to the real needs. Could it be done? To an extent, Caroline scorned that she herself was still mulling over these important, powerful questions as if she still had the authority - or the right - to answer them herself. Of course she didn't. She had made way for new leadership, not that everyone in her caucus blamed her or was even willing to see her go, but because Caroline herself knew that someone had to stand up and be a leader, and accept responsibility, and be mature. And that wasn't going to come from that limp vegetable we called a nominee.

"The mandate of the American people is not clear."

The words, faintly recalled, echoed in her ears. The long, long night. How she'd stayed up into the very early hours of the morning that November night. How it had continued past the dawn, and with that dawn came the realisation of the scale of the defeat, and how stolen that election had been. Another Republican President with a minority of the vote. Another Republican House delivered not on the back of honest politics but of gerrymandered advantage. How many percentage points did she need to win to even break even? 56? 57? And it would surely only ever get worse, until a breaking point was reached.

"At the start of the night, I was confident that we would be able to secure a continuity of good government at a time of national crisis. That confidence was misplaced, and I am sorry."

Bitter, bitter feelings as her mind regurgitated her own words back her. Fast forward only a month or so and when it came time to face the Democratic Caucus to decide on leadership positions for the 117th, the mixture of reactions to her decision not to stand. Not to hold on as (not-Nancy Pelosi) had done in 2010. No one would have blamed her. Most of her colleagues wouldn't have begrudged her staying on. But she chose to step aside. She chose to accept responsibility, even though many of them knew that a weak candidate at the top of the ticket was just as much to blame as her own overconfident lapse in authority during the campaign. She could have blamed Diehl. She didn't.

"Ultimately, the buck stopped with me regarding the campaign for the House. We lost many good colleagues, and that wasn't good enough, and you have a right to expect better."

Did they? Did they have the right? Most of them did. But she could see them, on the far left and on the right, sharpening their knives. She'd cut out their tongues in an attempt to save the party, and it had worked for a while, until they'd regrown at the inopportune hour. Defund the Police and Green New Deal in one ear, strategic pauses and cutting spending in the other, the storm had been on the horizon and she had failed to predict it. Failed to hold it back. Would Caroline relitigate this in her head for the rest of her days? Going into politics at all had been a bold, hopeful attempt to try to make things better. Despite all her pragmatism in the big chair, on a fundamental level, she was an idealist. There was a vision there - and she had watched it deflate before her eyes.

And so she stepped aside.

Caroline never wore black unless it was a somber occasion. During her time as Speaker, as her profile had risen, she'd reverted to type for Democratic women - vibrant colors and pantsuits. And she'd looked great in them, confident and businesslike and visible. A ray of sunshine in a bleak, gray world of politicians. But today, the sun had set and the night enveloped all. Piece-by-piece, garment-by-garment, assemblage of black and white formed a cold, mournful exterior, whose only splash of color was the House of Representatives pin on the lapel. Sunglasses to protect from the glare of the winter sun - and the press, who'd no doubt revel in any outward sign of emotion on her part. As she picked up her handbag from the side table and the invitation for the inauguration, she exhaled slowly.

It was a somber occasion.

by **Velahor** » Wed Sep 22, 2021 2:27 pm

Twitter on the morning of Wednesday, January 20th (Inauguration Day)

Diane Paulson
@DianeForMaine
paulson.house.gov | Presque Isle, ME
I’m very honored to be able to attend the inauguration of Nate Richardson. He has character and integrity requisite of an American president. A great occasion for freedom-loving Americans.

Senator William Rogers III
@WSRIIISenate
rogers.senate.gov | Bozeman, MT
Today is a good day to appreciate another peaceful transition of power in America. I pray that President Richardson restores dignity, honor, and respect for American rule of law to the Oval Office.

Mayor Daniel Gundersen
@DairyDanG
mayor.waukesha.gov | Waukesha, WI
The voters spoke, and @GovernorRichardson answered the call! I’m sure glad to have a new President in office who will stay on the path to greater economic productivity, honor our vets, and continue strengthening our nation.

Dairy Dan’s Restaurants
@DDBurgersNational
www.dairydans.com/ORDER_NOW | Waukesha, WI

FREE BACON WEDNESDAYS ARE BACK!

Stop by your local Dairy Dan’s this Wednesday, or any Wednesday through March 1, 2021 and we will add our crispy, flavorful, American-raised bacon to your burger.

Or ORDER NOW on Doordash.

Limited time only.

by **Gordano and Lysandus** » Wed Sep 22, 2021 3:53 pm

Senator Eugene Obradovic
Washington, District of Columbia
Friday 22nd January, 2021

It had come as a matter of significant surprise to Senator Obradovic that the newly inaugurated President had requested his presence at the White House. On the more progressive end of the Democratic Party on a number of issues, particularly economic, Gene wasn't the usual kind of Senator that'd expect to be targeted by any push by the White House to bypass leadership. That was the sort of thing he expected more from his colleagues in West Virginia, Iowa and Montana, and to a lesser extent, New Hampshire. Nonetheless, despite Gene's general grumbling about the American political infrastructure, he was an old man and the notion of respect for the office still resonated with him. After a journey from his residence in suburban D.C. to the White House in a black SUV, he was helped into the building and shielded with an umbrella from the poor January weather (though he suspected this was as much to hide his being there as anything else).

Perambulating slowly with the aid of his cane towards some place deeper within the Executive Mansion, he settled into a chair and waited for someone to collect him. That was what he had long been used to when he'd visited the White House over the many years. Even those he'd been closer to, like President Baharia, there was an element of unavoidable ceremony. And so he waited. And scorned that he hadn't brought something to drink, in case he was going to be there long.

by **Dentali** » Wed Sep 22, 2021 4:04 pm

Gordano and Lysandus wrote:Senator Eugene Obradovic
Washington, District of Columbia
Friday 22nd January, 2021

It had come as a matter of significant surprise to Senator Obradovic that the newly inaugurated President had requested his presence at the White House. On the more progressive end of the Democratic Party on a number of issues, particularly economic, Gene wasn't the usual kind of Senator that'd expect to be targeted by any push by the White House to bypass leadership. That was the sort of thing he expected more from his colleagues in West Virginia, Iowa and Montana, and to a lesser extent, New Hampshire. Nonetheless, despite Gene's general grumbling about the American political infrastructure, he was an old man and the notion of respect for the office still resonated with him. After a journey from his residence in suburban D.C. to the White House in a black SUV, he was helped into the building and shielded with an umbrella from the poor January weather (though he suspected this was as much to hide his being there as anything else).

Perambulating slowly with the aid of his cane towards some place deeper within the Executive Mansion, he settled into a chair and waited for someone to collect him. That was what he had long been used to when he'd visited the White House over the many years. Even those he'd been closer to, like President Baharia, there was an element of unavoidable ceremony. And so he waited. And scorned that he hadn't brought something to drink, in case he was going to be there long.

"Senator thank you for coming...." Richardson said as the Senator entered into the Presidential study in the east wing. The Senator was not someone he wanted it to be know he was speaking to in a professional capacity, and if it was found out he would tell his party he was 'paying respects to the Pro Tem".

Richardson shook his had and glanced over at his Chief of Staff, the only other person in the room, "I promise I won't keep you long... I more or less just want your opinion on the economic relief bill being crafted..."

by **Gordano and Lysandus** » Wed Sep 22, 2021 4:06 pm

Dentali wrote:"Senator thank you for coming...." Richardson said as the Senator entered into the Presidential study in the east wing. The Senator was not someone he wanted it to be know he was speaking to in a professional capacity, and if it was found out he would tell his party he was 'paying respects to the Pro Tem".

Richardson shook his had and glanced over at his Chief of Staff, the only other person in the room, "I promise I won't keep you long... I more or less just want your opinion on the economic relief bill being crafted..."

Gene cleared his throat into a handkerchief in his left hand before tucking it away, and shaking President Richardson's hand with his right, giving a subtle nod. "Mr. President, Mr. Abernathy." He nodded over at the Chief of Staff.

"You'll forgive me if I seat myself. My brain works hard for the American people but my knees are very thoroughly unionized," He smiled sagely before lowering himself into a seat, resting his cane against one of the arms, "First of all, I'd like to know if you've spoken with Leader Hertzog before bringing me in. Aside from that, do you want me to be gently bipartisan about this, or wholly candid?"

by **Kargintinia** » Wed Sep 22, 2021 4:57 pm

Earl Tenson
@BigEarsWhip
tenson.house.gov | Baker, MT
Today is the day in which America sees a new leader step into it’s highest office. A man duly elected through our electoral college system to represent all Americans. I have utmost confidence in President-Elect Richardson and Speaker Volker to - (1/2)
-continue the work of the late President Wolf and continue to make America safe, economically sound, proud, and of course Great Again. (2/2)

by **Jovuistan** » Wed Sep 22, 2021 10:21 pm

JANUARY 19th, 2021
WASHINGTON D.C.
PHILLIP CRAWFORD

The hard flops of steps against the brick path were the only noticeable sound in the immediate vicinity. The wind gently rustled the plants and the leaves that had been well maintained by the gardeners. Mary Livingston Ripley still looked as elegant as ever, even in the winter. Phillip and Paula Crawford had chosen to take a walk together in the garden ahead of the big day tomorrow. Phillip felt the breeze lightly brush against his face. If he had hair it could have been a mild inconvenience; baldness did have its benefits.

Paula kneeled down to observe some of the Lillies. Her husband smiled down at her, also appreciating the flowers, "I really appreciate you wanting to go out here today. Can't believe I missed this place, honestly." She turned back to him, warmly reciprocating with a grin, "Well, honey, I knew you were feeling some stress over our current circumstances. I figured a nice walk with nature would help clear your mind." She lifted herself back up and resumed pacing slowly in sync with her other.

The Congressman let out a quiet sigh. Admittedly, he was facing a bit of anxiety in light of recent developments in his field. Once again, Democrats lost, and another Republican would take office despite not winning the support of most Americans, truly a tragedy for the legitimacy of the nation's democracy. It shouldn't have been as bad for him as when Arnold Wolf and his insane ideology trumped Diane Clifford, but the situation with the economic calamity and the rise of even more extreme elements in the GOP gave him pause about the future. That combined with having to address it from a position high among House Democrats where his decisions could have a serious impact on the party and the country at large filled him with a sense of dread, though he was easily able to keep it from getting to his head.

Lost in thought, he flinched as he felt a grip against his hand. Paula held onto him tightly, giving a reassuring expression, "I get that this whole thing has been disappointing and worrying, but I have full faith in you. You don't need me to tell you how smart and capable you are, Phil. They didn't make you the Chair out of pity."

Phillip nodded back, "Fair, yes. I'm concerned for the country, but I'm hopeful. These next few months are going to be critical, I can't be caught sleeping at the starting line." He placed his other hand in his pocket, taking in the scenery around him, "It's going to be hard work, but that hard work will pay off if all goes well."

Paula's expression turned a bit more neutral, "Y'know, you can feel free to take a break every once in a while. I'm sure someone else can take care of your duties in the meantime."

"What, do you plan on doing the work?" Congressman Crawford chuckled.

"Hell no!"

The two shared a laugh. Sure, Phillip had a lot of responsibility this year, but for now it was best to just ignore all that and enjoy this moment. At least he had someone to rely on.

by **Dentali** » Thu Sep 23, 2021 4:20 am

Gordano and Lysandus wrote:
Dentali wrote:"Senator thank you for coming...." Richardson said as the Senator entered into the Presidential study in the east wing. The Senator was not someone he wanted it to be know he was speaking to in a professional capacity, and if it was found out he would tell his party he was 'paying respects to the Pro Tem".

Richardson shook his had and glanced over at his Chief of Staff, the only other person in the room, "I promise I won't keep you long... I more or less just want your opinion on the economic relief bill being crafted..."

Gene cleared his throat into a handkerchief in his left hand before tucking it away, and shaking President Richardson's hand with his right, giving a subtle nod. "Mr. President, Mr. Abernathy." He nodded over at the Chief of Staff.

"You'll forgive me if I seat myself. My brain works hard for the American people but my knees are very thoroughly unionized," He smiled sagely before lowering himself into a seat, resting his cane against one of the arms, "First of all, I'd like to know if you've spoken with Leader Hertzog before bringing me in. Aside from that, do you want me to be gently bipartisan about this, or wholly candid?"

"You can be candid" Richardson said after a moments consideration "The main things I want to know are; what MUST be in the bill for you to support it, what you absolutely would reject in the bill, and what your price ceiling and floor are for the total bill."

by **Gordano and Lysandus** » Thu Sep 23, 2021 7:20 am

Dentali wrote:"You can be candid" Richardson said after a moments consideration "The main things I want to know are; what MUST be in the bill for you to support it, what you absolutely would reject in the bill, and what your price ceiling and floor are for the total bill."

"The bill is a perfectly inoffensive starting point. But it's just that, a starting point. Further work will be needed across all sectors of the economy. Housing, healthcare, infrastructure, industry, energy policy. I know you touch on this in your relief bill but there will be more to do. I also have concerns about the messaging and the pay-fors, and I'd want to be assured that your party would be able to deliver it through the Congress. Prima facie, I don't have a price ceiling, but I do have concerns about what comes next. If you fund this primarily through debt, there will be inflation. Will your party then use that inflation to pooh-pooh any other spending? Will you be able to stop them? Inflation will continue to contract real wages, how will you address wages? And for that matter, how will you respond to the inflationary pressure without - I presume - breaking your promise not to raise taxes?" Gene was forward and pointed with what he had to say, but not necessarily malicious or nasty, just honest. There was a lot to consider with the bill before them.

"If you decide to address the pay-fors, anything which raises taxes on the poor or the middle class would be immediately objectionable, but as it stands, there's nothing in the bill text itself which is objectionable to me, I just want you to be aware that this is a sticking plaster and the gaping wound will need further redress. And it will be up to you to decide if you want us to limp out of this recovery or stride."

by **Dentali** » Thu Sep 23, 2021 10:10 am

Gordano and Lysandus wrote:
Dentali wrote:"You can be candid" Richardson said after a moments consideration "The main things I want to know are; what MUST be in the bill for you to support it, what you absolutely would reject in the bill, and what your price ceiling and floor are for the total bill."

"The bill is a perfectly inoffensive starting point. But it's just that, a starting point. Further work will be needed across all sectors of the economy. Housing, healthcare, infrastructure, industry, energy policy. I know you touch on this in your relief bill but there will be more to do. I also have concerns about the messaging and the pay-fors, and I'd want to be assured that your party would be able to deliver it through the Congress. Prima facie, I don't have a price ceiling, but I do have concerns about what comes next. If you fund this primarily through debt, there will be inflation. Will your party then use that inflation to pooh-pooh any other spending? Will you be able to stop them? Inflation will continue to contract real wages, how will you address wages? And for that matter, how will you respond to the inflationary pressure without - I presume - breaking your promise not to raise taxes?" Gene was forward and pointed with what he had to say, but not necessarily malicious or nasty, just honest. There was a lot to consider with the bill before them.

"If you decide to address the pay-fors, anything which raises taxes on the poor or the middle class would be immediately objectionable, but as it stands, there's nothing in the bill text itself which is objectionable to me, I just want you to be aware that this is a sticking plaster and the gaping wound will need further redress. And it will be up to you to decide if you want us to limp out of this recovery or stride."

"Allow me to clarify somewhat..." Richardson said sitting up a bit straighter, "My intention for this bill is to get the country through to September, and in that time work on more long term fixes... Anything on the scale which you are suggesting would be incredibly difficult to get through a chamber controlled by Democrats, let alone one with the small Republican majority we have now. Even if we did theoretically do everything you are suggesting you must admit such measures would take a great deal of time... time the American people don't have."

"So with that in mind, and refocusing on this short term measure... should the bill hit the floor as is would you be opposed to it? Or would you allow it as a stopgap measure?"

by **Gordano and Lysandus** » Thu Sep 23, 2021 10:15 am

Dentali wrote:"Allow me to clarify somewhat..." Richardson said sitting up a bit straighter, "My intention for this bill is to get the country through to September, and in that time work on more long term fixes... Anything on the scale which you are suggesting would be incredibly difficult to get through a chamber controlled by Democrats, let alone one with the small Republican majority we have now. Even if we did theoretically do everything you are suggesting you must admit such measures would take a great deal of time... time the American people don't have."

"So with that in mind, and refocusing on this short term measure... should the bill hit the floor as is would you be opposed to it? Or would you allow it as a stopgap measure?"

"I'm not inclined to oppose the bill, though I will if it transpires you're trying to bypass Leader Hertzog in some fashion. So long as you're explicit that this is a stopgap measure, and that you won't use inflation as a boogeyman to stymie later initiatives, then there should be no issues."

by **Dentali** » Thu Sep 23, 2021 10:22 am

Gordano and Lysandus wrote:
Dentali wrote:"Allow me to clarify somewhat..." Richardson said sitting up a bit straighter, "My intention for this bill is to get the country through to September, and in that time work on more long term fixes... Anything on the scale which you are suggesting would be incredibly difficult to get through a chamber controlled by Democrats, let alone one with the small Republican majority we have now. Even if we did theoretically do everything you are suggesting you must admit such measures would take a great deal of time... time the American people don't have."

"So with that in mind, and refocusing on this short term measure... should the bill hit the floor as is would you be opposed to it? Or would you allow it as a stopgap measure?"

"I'm not inclined to oppose the bill, though I will if it transpires you're trying to bypass Leader Hertzog in some fashion. So long as you're explicit that this is a stopgap measure, and that you won't use inflation as a boogeyman to stymie later initiatives, then there should be no issues."

Richardson paused, unsure of how much Hertzog had told the old man. Finally he nodded "I'm happy to hear that, the American people don't need a fight on this... So assuming Leader Hertzog and I don't have any conflicts over the legislation you and other likeminded Senators would support this relief bill?"

by **Gordano and Lysandus** » Thu Sep 23, 2021 10:27 am

Dentali wrote:Richardson paused, unsure of how much Hertzog had told the old man. Finally he nodded "I'm happy to hear that, the American people don't need a fight on this... So assuming Leader Hertzog and I don't have any conflicts over the legislation you and other likeminded Senators would support this relief bill?"

"To navigate the churning waters of crisis is the most dreadful and most important duty of any leader of men, Mr. President," The elderly Senator pushed himself up from his seat, giving him an earnest nod, "You will have my support, vocally and publicly, provided that such conflicts do not occur. And I look forward to the promised engagement on further aid. Let us pray that Speaker Volker does not serve you a curveball."

by **Dentali** » Thu Sep 23, 2021 10:30 am

Gordano and Lysandus wrote:
Dentali wrote:Richardson paused, unsure of how much Hertzog had told the old man. Finally he nodded "I'm happy to hear that, the American people don't need a fight on this... So assuming Leader Hertzog and I don't have any conflicts over the legislation you and other likeminded Senators would support this relief bill?"

"To navigate the churning waters of crisis is the most dreadful and most important duty of any leader of men, Mr. President," The elderly Senator pushed himself up from his seat, giving him an earnest nod, "You will have my support, vocally and publicly, provided that such conflicts do not occur. And I look forward to the promised engagement on further aid. Let us pray that Speaker Volker does not serve you a curveball."

"I'm happy to hear that Senator... Thank you for your candidness."

by **Gordano and Lysandus** » Thu Sep 23, 2021 10:38 am

Dentali wrote:"I'm happy to hear that Senator... Thank you for your candidness."

"I look forward to seeing your messaging regarding the bill and its effects, and I look forward to later conversations on various policy areas that will subsequently require address," He goes to shake the President's hand, nodding once more, "I assume there was nothing else?"

by **Dentali** » Thu Sep 23, 2021 12:55 pm

Gordano and Lysandus wrote:
Dentali wrote:"I'm happy to hear that Senator... Thank you for your candidness."

"I look forward to seeing your messaging regarding the bill and its effects, and I look forward to later conversations on various policy areas that will subsequently require address," He goes to shake the President's hand, nodding once more, "I assume there was nothing else?"

"Not at this time... Thank you again" Richardson shakes the Senators hand and bids him farewell

by **Gordano and Lysandus** » Thu Sep 23, 2021 12:58 pm

Dentali wrote:"Not at this time... Thank you again" Richardson shakes the Senators hand and bids him farewell

"I will give you a heads up that I intend to vote against your nominee for Secretary of Defense. Shouldn't affect the final tally. Matter of principle, but I thought I'd be a gentleman and let you know. Good afternoon, Mr. President," Gene gives a low tip of his head before he goes to shuffle his way out, departing from the White House. An interesting meeting on the whole, and he appreciated that the President was at least polite about it all.

by **Madrinpoor** » Thu Sep 23, 2021 1:58 pm

Georgetown, Washington DC
A mid-sized townhouse, now the part-time home of Frank Loloma
11:39 PM, January 18

Frank sat quietly at his small oak desk overlooking the Potomac river, folding and unfolding his invitation to the presidential inauguration as a Member of Congress. Wow. It was crazy that he was actually here. That he would be a representative in the U.S. House of Representatives. Yesterday he had been in Window Rock partying and celebrating, and saying his goodbyes, but tonight was to be more quiet...

Frank's phone buzzed with another congratulatory text and some information on the inauguration in two days from his chief of staff, Paul — as well as a reminder to tweet about the inauguration, which he had not done yet. Frank didn't like Richardson, though he was certainly better than that awful Wolf. However, he was still the president, and Arizona still voted for him, and Frank still needed to work with him to get things passed. He fired off a quick tweet, and went to bed.

Representative Frank Loloma
@FrankLoloma
loloma.house.gov | Window Rock, AZ
Although we might not all agree with @GovernorRichardson and his beliefs, we in the #house have to be sure to not let politics stop progress. Native American poverty is more than double America's average — a solution needs to be found, fast, and with the President's help. #SaveNativeAmericans

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