America the Beautiful: An American Political RP (IC)

[New Cobastheia]

"I thought you might say that." Hertzog said taking a sip from his glass, "I'd assume you have some opinions on what should be done too."

"Mm. He won't take well to a direct threat, and the last thing we need is him going rogue. A degree of subtlety is needed. Subtlety and yet firmness. He's won a couple of very cushy committee spots. Committee spots that go to people who're loyal. Not saying we act on them yet, but it should be made implicit that your position in the caucus depends on your willingness to maintain party unity."

"That's kind of the route I took with Rogers, firm but not overbearing, and once the issue at hand was addressed when ended up having a productive conversation like it was any other day in the Senate."

"I just can't wait for Wisconsin to be over, I feel like we have to walk on eggshells all the time."

[New Cobastheia]

Natasha looked at Hertzog, then to Boyd before asking the Congressman, “Ladies first?”, an almost playful look on her face.

Boyd chuckled, and said politely, "Of course, you can go first if you'd like."

"Not a problem at all," Hertzog stated as he got up and led the Attorney General to a separate room in the house that seemed to be the home office where the two of them could have a private conversation.

Sitting down he'd speak up once they had both settled in, "So, let's start then. Obviously one of my biggest concerns is figuring out which one of you two is a better candidate, care to give me your pitch then?"

---

Meanwhile, back in the living room, Matilda would be left with the Representative, "So... the Senate, what led to that decision if you don't mind me asking?"

[Meretica]

To: White House Chief-of-Staff Bob Abernathy (abernathy@whitehouse.gov)
From: Congressman John Mattox (john@mattox.house.gov)
Subject: Presidential Meeting Request

Chief-of-Staff Abernathy,
I shall take the liberty of assuming that my email was overlooked due to what I am sure is an already full inbox. Though I would rather not provide additional clutter, I am afraid that I must.

I would appreciate it very much if you would provide me with a list of days that the president has a few minutes or so to meet with me. Following discussions with my colleagues, I have good reason to believe that the president may be interested in what I have to say regarding business tax cuts and electoral reform. Unlike certain progressives, I am willing to see what the president wants and work with him from there. I await your earnest reply.

Sincerely,
Congressman John A. Mattox III

[Yaruqo]

"Not a problem at all," Hertzog stated as he got up and led the Attorney General to a separate room in the house that seemed to be the home office where the two of them could have a private conversation.

Sitting down he'd speak up once they had both settled in, "So, let's start then. Obviously one of my biggest concerns is figuring out which one of you two is a better candidate, care to give me your pitch then?"

“Of course. While I’ll cede to the Congressman that in terms of overall experience, he is decades ahead of me, he has not held a state-wide office in Wisconsin, nor has he had to run against a challenging Republican candidate who might be tapping into Wolfism. Not only have I held statewide office, I’ve actively used it to protect Wisconsinites from polluters, from those who violate our gun laws, from cop killers. I intend to bring an active progressivism to the Senate: whatever will move our country forward and bring tangible results to my constituents - aligned with our platform and ideals, of course - is what I’ll push for. If needed, and I’m assuming it will be needed frequently, I’ll work with Democratic and Republican Senators to introduce and pass legislation that’ll bring good paying union jobs to WI and the rest of the Rust Belt. For WI in particular, we can lead the country in the manufacturing of new water delivery systems, but only if Congress can pass Made in America legislation to ensure that American steel and manufacturers are used - which is what I’d intend to work on.

“We also need to ensure that any infrastructure bill has safety rails in it to guarantee that infrastructure projects are equitable and environmentally sound. We will lose voters - literally in some cases of forced relocation - if we go back to the days of cities and states running freeways through Black neighborhoods, and especially if we do nothing to ensure that those communities are taken care of. This will be a turnout game, and I don’t know about who the Republicans might choose, but my biggest fear is that Congressman Boyd would depress Black turnout where it’s most concentrated. As I said, I’d endorse him and do whatever it took to get him across the finish line if the party nominated him, but the Black community in Wisconsin has, more or less, been the linchpin to my success. If he doesn’t win them over, where they’re actively campaigning for him on the same level they campaigned for me, then we will lose Wisconsin.”

[Alozia]

After Abrahms sat down, the Speaker moved around to his side of the desk before sitting down himself. As the New Jerseyite made his case, Volker listened intently, nodding along at certain points. Admittedly, Thomas sympathised with the Congressman’s position. After all, the situation marked much of the Missourian’s early career in the House, particularly those days after his endorsement of (Not-Buchanan) back in ‘96 that saw him almost bereft of sympathies in the House Republican leadership. As the Representative came to his conclusion, Volker then responded.

“Well I’m certainly open to coming to an understanding on this issue. Is there anything in particular that you have considered in exchange for the Equality Act being placed on the agenda?”

Joe was far from shocked to hear the question, although no viable answer came to his mind. "Mr. Speaker, I'm going to be very honest here. I'm not a Chairman of a big committee or caucus, there isn't much I can offer in terms of political favors or transactions. I came to you because this bill, the Equality Act, had a lot of support in the previous Congress. Both from Democrats and Republicans. This is a simple bill that doesn't require companies to increase spending or anything of the sort, in fact it would cost nothing and help those who were subject to enormous discrimination in the past to work their way up the social and economic ladder, with their hard work unobstructed by bigotry. This bill doesn't offer any reparations or anything of the sort, it's nowhere near as radical as one could expect from a progressive such as me. I think this is a piece of legislation an overwhelming majority of both House and Senate members can get behind, especially with President Richardson at the helm of the Republican Party."

[The Sarangtus Lands]

Boyd chuckled, and said politely, "Of course, you can go first if you'd like."

"Not a problem at all," Hertzog stated as he got up and led the Attorney General to a separate room in the house that seemed to be the home office where the two of them could have a private conversation.

Sitting down he'd speak up once they had both settled in, "So, let's start then. Obviously one of my biggest concerns is figuring out which one of you two is a better candidate, care to give me your pitch then?"

---

Meanwhile, back in the living room, Matilda would be left with the Representative, "So... the Senate, what led to that decision if you don't mind me asking?"

"I simply felt that I needed to run for the seat, in order to help advance the Democratic agenda. I feel that I'm electable enough - having built a winning coalition in a rural seat for the past 24 years - along with my experience at national politics, working with Jackson, [not-Harkin], Clifford, [not-Gore], Baharia, Baginski, Diehl, along with my first chairmanship of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, where I helped swing House and Senate seats through fundraising and organisation. I also worked with [not-Feingold] back in the day, and so I'm at least somewhat familiar with Wisconsin state politics. I really just want to make sure that this seat goes to a Democrat who'll stand up for our values, who'll stand up and hold the banner of justice in this country, and I feel that I can do that. But if the primary voters don't have confidence in me and pick Gauthier instead, I'll go hell for rubber campaigning for her to make sure that she wins against whoever the Republicans put up, because it is impossible to understate the importance of this seat to the people in this country who are suffering, who are left behind and who are being ignored by the Republican Party in favour of their big money pharma and oil donors."

[Lavan Tiri]

From: Senator Max O'Halloran
To: Senate Republicans

My friends,

Although I encourage you to make endorsements and statements of support, there will be consequences if you attack a Republican primary candidate. We cannot risk the appearance of division.

Thank you,
-Max

From: Senator Max O'Halloran
To: Senator Everitt Colbert

Everitt,

Delete those Tweets about Kurian, now. And clear some time in your schedule next week; some of my associates are having a fundraiser in Jackson Hole and I'd love for you to meet them.

Thanks,
-Max

From: Utah Senator Everitt Colbert
To: Wyoming Senator Max O'Halloran
I'll delete two of those tweets. I'll keep the one that only mentions the Defense of the Pacific Act. But be honest Max, is that ice cream ad the mark of an intelligent candidate who is capable of not getting destroyed by Gauthier or Boyd in the general or adequately representing Wisconsin in the Senate? And I will attend that Jackson Hole fundraiser. Send me the time and date.

From: Senator Max O'Halloran
To: Senator Everitt Colbert

Everitt,

I understand your frustrations with Kurian, but we cannot risk isolating a candidate only to have her win the primary. We will not jeopardize our shot at the Majority, understood?

The fundraiser is next Friday night at 9:30 PM. The Bison Falls Resort Ballroom. You're more than welcome to stay the nights before and after at my ranch if you don't feel like flying or driving.

All the best,
-Max.
Sent from my iPhone

[Dentali]

President Richardson
White House Press Conference


“Good Morning… A few minutes ago, after consultation with FEMA and the Governor of Texas I signed an official disaster declaration for the state of Texas and ordered federal agencies to supplement state and local recovery efforts already in progress.”

“As most of you already know, on February 10th, the Gulf Coast was hit with a once in a decade Winter Storm, which dropped a significant amount of snow, ice, and sleet in an area stretching from Texas to Georgia, and reaching as far north as the Ohio Valley before turning northeast to hit New England. As a result millions of people have lost power and a number of deaths have been reported, and that number is expected to rise...”

“Cities such as Dallas have recorded the lowest temperature in over 70 years causing almost every type of energy source to fail. Millions of Texas are now without heat and power in below zero temperatures. As soon as the Governor asked for assistance I authorized the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA to coordinate disaster relief efforts to try and alleviate the suffering Americans in Texas. They are doing all in their power to provide appropriate assistance and emergency measures to keep people safe in all 254 counties.”

“All federal equipment and resources will be administered by Jerry S Thomas, who has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for the affected areas. Already Generators, Water, Blankets and other materials are on their way, as well as emergency personnel from various federal agencies and other states.”

“Countless churches, community centers, homes, and other locations have already opened their doors to shelter those in need and local groups are assisting in the supply and delivery of vital materials. I ask those in Texas to follow the directions of emergency officials, and if possible to check on their neighbors, especially the elderly and vulnerable… ”

“And I ask all Americans to give their thoughts and prayers to the people of Texas in this dire hour.”

“With that I will turn things over to the FEMA Deputy Administrator (insert name), who will brief you on the specifics of the response…..“

(FEMA Deputy gives a detailed briefing for 5 minutes)

Richardson comes back to to the podium “With that we have a few minutes to take questions.”

[The Orion Islands]

To: Senator Everitt Colbert

From: Representative Serah Kurian

Senator Colbert,

This is Serah Kurian's Chief of Staff Felicity Lee messaging you on behalf of Representative Serah Kurian.

She wanted you to know that she'll still be in Congress regardless of how the Wisconsin special election plays out. The only question is if it'll be as your colleague in the Senate or not.

Probably something you should keep in mind.

Regards,

-The Chief of Staff of Representative Kurian, Felicity Lee

From: Utah Senator Everitt Colbert
To: Wisconsin Representative Serah Kurian
If you want to be my colleague in the Senate, than may I suggest not running ridiculous ads where you drop ice cream on maps and offering sensible, mature leadership.

[Gordano and Lysandus]

President Richardson
White House Press Conference


“Good Morning… A few minutes ago, after consultation with FEMA and the Governor of Texas I signed an official disaster declaration for the state of Texas and ordered federal agencies to supplement state and local recovery efforts already in progress.”

“As most of you already know, on February 10th, the Gulf Coast was hit with a once in a decade Winter Storm, which dropped a significant amount of snow, ice, and sleet in an area stretching from Texas to Georgia, and reaching as far north as the Ohio Valley before turning northeast to hit New England. As a result millions of people have lost power and a number of deaths have been reported, and that number is expected to rise...”

“Cities such as Dallas have recorded the lowest temperature in over 70 years causing almost every type of energy source to fail. Millions of Texas are now without heat and power in below zero temperatures. As soon as the Governor asked for assistance I authorized the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA to coordinate disaster relief efforts to try and alleviate the suffering Americans in Texas. They are doing all in their power to provide appropriate assistance and emergency measures to keep people safe in all 254 counties.”

“All federal equipment and resources will be administered by Jerry S Thomas, who has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for the affected areas. Already Generators, Water, Blankets and other materials are on their way, as well as emergency personnel from various federal agencies and other states.”

“Countless churches, community centers, homes, and other locations have already opened their doors to shelter those in need and local groups are assisting in the supply and delivery of vital materials. I ask those in Texas to follow the directions of emergency officials, and if possible to check on their neighbors, especially the elderly and vulnerable… ”

“And I ask all Americans to give their thoughts and prayers to the people of Texas in this dire hour.”

“With that I will turn things over to the FEMA Deputy Administrator (insert name), who will brief you on the specifics of the response…..“

(FEMA Deputy gives a detailed briefing for 5 minutes)

Richardson comes back to to the podium “With that we have a few minutes to take questions.”

A reporter from CNN spoke up first, "Mr. President, do you think that the politically-motivated separation of the Texas power interconnection from the rest of the United States to avoid federal oversight contributed to and exacerbated the failure of the grid, and hampers the ability to support the local power network on a federal level?"

---

And then a reporter from MSNBC, "Mr. President, there's been a long term failure to take substantive action on homelessness, and people with no permanent shelter are most at risk from extreme weather incidences like this. Texas has one of the highest rates of homelessness in the country. What will your Administration do to lessen this issue in future?"

[Gordano and Lysandus]

Senator Eugene Obradovic
Wisconsin
Friday 19th February, 2020

Kenosha, Kenosha County

The broad-based offensive to win the Wisconsin special election was still ongoing, and despite his advanced years, Senator Obradovic wasn't going to shirk his responsibility to do his part. Not only was he the long-serving Senator for the neighboring state of Illinois, but he was also well known in the Chicago-Milwaukee corridor. That meant hitting Kenosha and Racine hard, and he began this with Kenosha. Keeping his remarks vague on candidates so as to neither undermine the Majority Leader's order not to intervene in the primary, and also to ensure that he gave wider backing to both Attorney General Gauthier and Representative Boyd, he adjusted them as he took the two hour flight from D.C. out to Wisconsin. His schedule was going to certainly be tight, but he had already made plenty of preparation to make sure that the late night event at 8pm that night could be done - conveniently enough, as Wisconsin was an hour behind D.C., it meant that he could make it with even better time.

The Vault Banquet Hall was, strangely enough, in the hull of an old bank, the Kenosha National. A curious place to hold an event, not least a Democratic one, but it was spacious, it dazzled sufficiently, and there was room to make sure that coffees, teas, and a plentiful supply of biscuits were on hand - ever welcome with the presently very cold weather. The event was well leafleted by the local Democratic branch, and when Eugene arrived, he shook hands with the people in the crowd, nudging his way through the throng, a big smile on his face. Despite the strain it put on him, he held his cane in his left hand and didn't rest on it, projecting more vigor than perhaps he necessarily had, as he made his way to the head of the room, full of trademark charm.

"Hello! Hello, Kenosha!

Gosh, it's good to see so many of you out here today to see me. They say they can't teach an old dog new tricks, and maybe they're right, but I've always felt that the most honest kind of politics were the old-fashioned kind. Coming out here and meeting real people. Flashy campaign videos and their production values might get more bang for their buck on paper, but there's something about getting out there in the community which is so much more valuable. It's important that politicians are able to ground themselves with the communities they're meant to represent. Representation matters. Having a voice matters. And so before I start prosyletizing to you, I first want to say that if you're not registered to vote, you gotta get that done. You gotta register to vote. You gotta have your voice. It's a God-given right and you can't let anyone take it away from you. We've got to fight to keep those rights. Don't let the people who want to keep you silent silence you.

Over the past fifty years, I've watched Kenosha go from being an old-fashioned manufacturing town, to being a bustling bedroom community. Both of those bring a lot of character and a lot of activity to your city, but right now, the country's in a bad place. And we can't let that contagion worsen here, we can't let the recession drag Kenosha down into being a ghost town. So we've got to make sure we're supporting both the manufacturing jobs that are still here, and the commuters looking for work in Milwaukee and Chicago. It is not acceptable to leave anyone behind. It is not acceptable to force any of you into poor conditions or poverty. You all work hard, you all do everything that society should expect of you. You should be rewarded for that with a decent wage, with good conditions, with access to health care, with the guarantee of a solid pension, with access to affordable housing. These things are not socialism, they are the signs of a healthy economy. Failing to achieve that will only leave our societies and our economy stagnant. It will leave our people stagnant, and unable to grow. We've got to invest in people. We've got to invest in you.

Democrats back in D.C. are hitting the ground running to try to guard those investments in you from Republicans like Deb Feyrer who want to take them away. We made sure to keep individual stimulus checks in the relief bill. We fought to expand the Child Tax Credit. We fought to expand Medicaid. We fought to expand nutrition payments. We fought to secure real, ringfenced spending on expanding veterans' health facilities. And because we have the majority in the Senate right now, we were able to exert enough pressure on the White House to win those fights. But it's a razor thin majority and this March 30th, the Republicans could take it away from us. What does that mean, practically speaking, for you? It means that we're far less powerful in blocking damaging policy. It means that we're far less powerful in being able to push for further aid and support to your communities. It means that Leader O'Halleran could, through reconciliation, pass even more tax cuts for the extremely wealthy, running up the federal deficit for no servicable good, and slash the programs which are meant to help you guys.

If we lose the special election on March 30th, raising the minimum wage is dead. Investment in housebuilding is dead. Real healthcare reform is dead. Individual stimulus checks will be dead, because the other side'll call it entitlement. Making permanent the child tax credit expansion will be dead, because they'll say it's a bailout for 'welfare queens', whatever the Hell that's supposed to mean. A Republican trifecta will bring our recovery from this recession to a grinding crawl, and will leave thousands of ordinary Americans, especially hardworking Midwestern folk like you, worse off. I don't think that's what you want, and it's sure as Hell not what I want. We're not going to take this without a fight, we're going to hit the ground running, we're going to try to win this March 30th, so that we can continue to force this President to address the real needs. The real needs of real Americans.

On March 2nd, the primaries'll be wrapped up, and we'll have a candidate. And look at the pair of candidates we've got before us. Attorney General Natasha Gauthier, a sharp legal mind who has the spirit of community running through everything she does, and Representative Everson Boyd, a man who has been a tireless fighter for the rights of ordinary folks like you. These are both excellent candidates, worthy candidates, of becoming the next United States Senator for Wisconsin. I would proud to have either of them sit with me in the United States Senate. Both of them represent change worth fighting for, to make your communities safer and stronger, to make sure that your jobs are secure, and that you get a fair wage and fair benefits. Both of them will help keep the worst instincts of a Republican Administration in check, making sure that your civil rights aren't further infringed upon the aggressive war on democracy being pushed by the Republican fringe. Both of them are better than the alternative, the angry squabbling crowd that are the Republican candidates this cycle.

Make no mistake, Daniel Gundersen, Christopher Duncan Junior, and Serah Kurian, whichever of them wins, will leave your communities worse off. They'll support the far right fetish for budget cuts, especially cuts that will most hurt local communities. Under last year's CARES Act, billions of dollars in aid for state and local governments was laid out, and more was secured in the American Relief Act. That money will explicitly be on the chopping block with a Republican trifecta as they find every possible way to justify not raising taxes on their super-wealthy donors. I know that Governor (not-Evers) and the city government here are pushing hard for some of that money to go towards the Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood project, to redevelop the sight of the shut down Chrysler factory. To create jobs and opportunities for folks living here in Kenosha. I don't want to see that money stripped out of your community and instead funnelled to some special interest. We can't let that happen. I don't think you guys will let it happen.

And yet if we keep a foot in the door for Democratic policy? That keeps so many things alive. Attorney General Gauthier wants to push for healthcare reform, to bring down your premiums and ensure access to healthcare for ordinary Americans like you. Representative Boyd has a bill, a good bill, to secure paid family leave for folks like you, so that you don't have to choose between keeping your job and being able to spend those important, formative first weeks with your newborn children. What else is on the cards? I'm pushing bills to raise the minimum wage and tackle our homelessness epidemic. Senator Vichter wants to make sure that your right to organize in the workplace isn't infringed upon. Representative Lazare in the House is fighting to tear down one of the pillars of Big Pharma's scandalous price inflation. Representative Miller is fighting to get the ball rolling on long overdue infrastructure works that Republicans have consistently obstructed. If these things sound worthwhile to you, then we need you to help us defend a Democratic majority in the Senate. Talk to your friends and family, encourage them to register to vote and to vote on March 30th. Organize with us. Fight with us. Because a better tomorrow is possible.

I truly believe that America can emerge from this economic crisis so much stronger than it entered it. It's got to. Too much is at stake for us not to push for the best possible recovery, a recovery that doesn't just serve the money men on Wall Street, but a recovery that strengthens our country inside and out. A recovery that defends manufacturing and office work. A recovery that makes you and your families richer. This is our fight, our fight for the future. It starts here. Taking America back from the oligarchs. Taking it back from the far right. It starts here, in towns like Kenosha. Here, in a state like Wisconsin. You have the power in your hands to send President Richardson a message - no more bailouts for billionaires, we want real relief for real Americans. You can start a ball rolling this March 30th that'll keep rolling, and keep growing, until we can take back both chambers of Congress solidly in 2022. You can start a ball rolling this March 30th to make sure that the election of 2024 is competitive. It all comes down to you, the good people of Kenosha.

I beliieve in the American people. I believe in the indomitable American spirit. I believe that those who seek to put themselves against the American people will consistently fail, because they lack our spirit, our will to freedom. I believe we can rise up and conquer the cloud of darkness that seeks to suffocate and keep us down.

In my faith, we have a prayer for the sick. It goes like this: 'O Christ, Who alone art our Defender: Visit and heal Thy suffering servant, delivering him from sickness and grievous pains. Raise him up that he may sing to Thee and praise Thee without ceasing, through the prayers of the Theotokos, O Thou Who alone lovest mankind.' Right now, America is suffering from a terrible sickness. A contagious plague not manifested in flesh and blood, but in spreadsheets and balance books. And from that comes the suffering of so many Americans. Let us put ourselves to good work, to deliver America from the sickness. Let us raise America up so that it can sing and praise and flourish once more. That is our power, and that is what we can achieve this March 30th.

God bless you all, God bless Kenosha, God bless Wisconsin, God bless these United States of America! Thank you so much for coming to here me out, and remember, make sure your voice is heard this March 30th!"

[Dentali]

President Richardson
White House Press Conference
… ”

“And I ask all Americans to give their thoughts and prayers to the people of Texas in this dire hour.”

“With that I will turn things over to the FEMA Deputy Administrator (insert name), who will brief you on the specifics of the response…..“

(FEMA Deputy gives a detailed briefing for 5 minutes)

Richardson comes back to to the podium “With that we have a few minutes to take questions.”

A reporter from CNN spoke up first, "Mr. President, do you think that the politically-motivated separation of the Texas power interconnection from the rest of the United States to avoid federal oversight contributed to and exacerbated the failure of the grid, and hampers the ability to support the local power network on a federal level?"

---

And then a reporter from MSNBC, "Mr. President, there's been a long term failure to take substantive action on homelessness, and people with no permanent shelter are most at risk from extreme weather incidences like this. Texas has one of the highest rates of homelessness in the country. What will your Administration do to lessen this issue in future?"

“Look in the days to come I promise plenty of questions will be asked about what could have been done better at all levels and until we have a detailed breakdown of what exactly broke down and why, it think it would be premature for me do give any kind of policy prescription … but it’s important to remember this was the worst it’s been in 70 years.”

——

“We just passed the ARA which includes Hundreds of billions in support for the homeless population, addiction treatment and mental health assistance, low cost housing and shelter programs…. programs like snap as well have been funded to a massive degree.”

“As for Texas specifically I think you should check your numbers… per capita the worst homeless rates are in states like California, Hawaii, New York… if memory serves Texas isn’t even in the top 20 despite its massive population growth.”

[Gordano and Lysandus]

Gene Obradovic
@SenatorObradovic
obradovic.senate.gov | Chicago, IL

---

FICTION: President Richardson claims that homelessness isn't a problem in Texas because its per capita homelessness is low.

FACT: Texas has the fourth highest number of homeless persons - 25,000 individual tragedies - with 1,800 of those being veterans.

[Helliniki Katastasis]

Governor Mick Doherty
@NYStrong
mynewyork.gov | Albany, NY

---

(Video of Richardson taking question from CNN)

Repoter asked Richardson what he would do to combat homelessness, in light of the recent tragedy in Texas. Instead of giving a real answer, he used the classic GOP deflection tactic of "Blue state bad, red state good" - (1/3)

---

- This is what happens when we let partisan narratives guide governance. We need substantive action on both homelessness and to repair the energy sector, not a political facade. - (2/3)

---

- No matter what rank a state is, the issue is - that doesn't change the plight of homeless populations across this nation. Thoudands of Texans are homeless, no different from any other state.- (3/3)

[Greater Arab State]

After Abrahms sat down, the Speaker moved around to his side of the desk before sitting down himself. As the New Jerseyite made his case, Volker listened intently, nodding along at certain points. Admittedly, Thomas sympathised with the Congressman’s position. After all, the situation marked much of the Missourian’s early career in the House, particularly those days after his endorsement of (Not-Buchanan) back in ‘96 that saw him almost bereft of sympathies in the House Republican leadership. As the Representative came to his conclusion, Volker then responded.

“Well I’m certainly open to coming to an understanding on this issue. Is there anything in particular that you have considered in exchange for the Equality Act being placed on the agenda?”

Joe was far from shocked to hear the question, although no viable answer came to his mind. "Mr. Speaker, I'm going to be very honest here. I'm not a Chairman of a big committee or caucus, there isn't much I can offer in terms of political favors or transactions. I came to you because this bill, the Equality Act, had a lot of support in the previous Congress. Both from Democrats and Republicans. This is a simple bill that doesn't require companies to increase spending or anything of the sort, in fact it would cost nothing and help those who were subject to enormous discrimination in the past to work their way up the social and economic ladder, with their hard work unobstructed by bigotry. This bill doesn't offer any reparations or anything of the sort, it's nowhere near as radical as one could expect from a progressive such as me. I think this is a piece of legislation an overwhelming majority of both House and Senate members can get behind, especially with President Richardson at the helm of the Republican Party."

“I see. Well I’d certainly be interested in the possibility of it being featured on the legislative agenda at some point, even if it is merely as a gesture to reinvigorate bipartisanship. However, I think that at this point, there are other, more immediately pressing issues which I think we can perhaps work across the aisle on in Congress. Especially as we recover from this fiscal downturn. I will certainly consider adding the Equality Act to the agenda once we pass our most pressing bills for this session though Congressman, I assure you.”

[Helliniki Katastasis]

"I take it you're not very satisfied in either?"

"No, no, I like Gauthier. I've spoken with her, she's nice, she's driven. I think she's a strong candidate."

"So, I also wanted to know how you feel about the midterms. Obviously, it's very early, but I think there's a real chance in the house, and to expand the Senate majority."

[Gordano and Lysandus]

"So, I also wanted to know how you feel about the midterms. Obviously, it's very early, but I think there's a real chance in the house, and to expand the Senate majority."

"I agree we have a solid chance to set things straight, yeah, it's just a case of making sure that the President doesn't run away too successfully, and that we keep our presence up. That means we can't afford to lose Wisconsin," She sighed, rubbing her forehead, "It also means, I think, that you should consider - when redistricting comes up - at eliminating a Republican district if New York loses a seat."

[Helliniki Katastasis]

"So, I also wanted to know how you feel about the midterms. Obviously, it's very early, but I think there's a real chance in the house, and to expand the Senate majority."

"I agree we have a solid chance to set things straight, yeah, it's just a case of making sure that the President doesn't run away too successfully, and that we keep our presence up. That means we can't afford to lose Wisconsin," She sighed, rubbing her forehead, "It also means, I think, that you should consider - when redistricting comes up - at eliminating a Republican district if New York loses a seat."

"Of course, I'll do what I can on my end. Depends on what the state legislature does, but I'm hoping to cut into the North Country. Should be fairly easy if we use Albany and Syracuse to our advantage. Out west, it would be smart to use Buffalo, Rochester, and Ithaca to clump some GOP voters in. In terms of Richardson, I think it'd be smart to emphasize some of the congressional crazies rather than hammer away at Richardskn himself, if he proves to be successful. A successful President and a batsh- Ahem, looney congress is a pretty fair and easy choice in my opinion."

[The Sarangtus Lands]

A reporter from CNN spoke up first, "Mr. President, do you think that the politically-motivated separation of the Texas power interconnection from the rest of the United States to avoid federal oversight contributed to and exacerbated the failure of the grid, and hampers the ability to support the local power network on a federal level?"

---

And then a reporter from MSNBC, "Mr. President, there's been a long term failure to take substantive action on homelessness, and people with no permanent shelter are most at risk from extreme weather incidences like this. Texas has one of the highest rates of homelessness in the country. What will your Administration do to lessen this issue in future?"

“Look in the days to come I promise plenty of questions will be asked about what could have been done better at all levels and until we have a detailed breakdown of what exactly broke down and why, it think it would be premature for me do give any kind of policy prescription … but it’s important to remember this was the worst it’s been in 70 years.”

——

“We just passed the ARA which includes Hundreds of billions in support for the homeless population, addiction treatment and mental health assistance, low cost housing and shelter programs…. programs like snap as well have been funded to a massive degree.”

“As for Texas specifically I think you should check your numbers… per capita the worst homeless rates are in states like California, Hawaii, New York… if memory serves Texas isn’t even in the top 20 despite its massive population growth.”

"Mr. President, where have you got the figure of hundreds of billions from?" asked a scruffly looking Mother Jones reporter. "According to Housing and Urban Development estimates, it would only cost roughly around $20 billion to end homelessness. Therefore, would it not be far beyond the realm of belief that the ARA spends 'hundreds of billions' on unhoused people? And more so than that, where has the estimate of 'hundreds of billions' come from?"

[Gordano and Lysandus]

"Of course, I'll do what I can on my end. Depends on what the state legislature does, but I'm hoping to cut into the North Country. Should be fairly easy if we use Albany and Syracuse to our advantage. Out west, it would be smart to use Buffalo, Rochester, and Ithaca to clump some GOP voters in. In terms of Richardson, I think it'd be smart to emphasize some of the congressional crazies rather than hammer away at Richardskn himself, if he proves to be successful. A successful President and a batsh- Ahem, looney congress is a pretty fair and easy choice in my opinion."

"Well, I'm hoping he'll fall into a trap and do something which'll frustrate the Republican base. If they don't turn out, it'll do the job for us. I've got bills on a number of issues cooking up with people in the House and Senate, hoping we'll get on top of things. Annoyingly, the Republicans haven't announced anything extremely, significantly unpopular yet. Sure, they've got some crazy bills up but I can hardly campaign on the Endangered Species Act." She sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. "I'm going to need to have this conversation with the Governor of California too, but I don't know if he can abolish his redistricting commission or bypass it in any way. Not like you in New York or (not-Pritzker) in Illinois."

[Helliniki Katastasis]

President Richardson
White House Press Conference


“Good Morning… A few minutes ago, after consultation with FEMA and the Governor of Texas I signed an official disaster declaration for the state of Texas and ordered federal agencies to supplement state and local recovery efforts already in progress.”

“As most of you already know, on February 10th, the Gulf Coast was hit with a once in a decade Winter Storm, which dropped a significant amount of snow, ice, and sleet in an area stretching from Texas to Georgia, and reaching as far north as the Ohio Valley before turning northeast to hit New England. As a result millions of people have lost power and a number of deaths have been reported, and that number is expected to rise...”

“Cities such as Dallas have recorded the lowest temperature in over 70 years causing almost every type of energy source to fail. Millions of Texas are now without heat and power in below zero temperatures. As soon as the Governor asked for assistance I authorized the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA to coordinate disaster relief efforts to try and alleviate the suffering Americans in Texas. They are doing all in their power to provide appropriate assistance and emergency measures to keep people safe in all 254 counties.”

“All federal equipment and resources will be administered by Jerry S Thomas, who has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for the affected areas. Already Generators, Water, Blankets and other materials are on their way, as well as emergency personnel from various federal agencies and other states.”

“Countless churches, community centers, homes, and other locations have already opened their doors to shelter those in need and local groups are assisting in the supply and delivery of vital materials. I ask those in Texas to follow the directions of emergency officials, and if possible to check on their neighbors, especially the elderly and vulnerable… ”

“And I ask all Americans to give their thoughts and prayers to the people of Texas in this dire hour.”

“With that I will turn things over to the FEMA Deputy Administrator (insert name), who will brief you on the specifics of the response…..“

(FEMA Deputy gives a detailed briefing for 5 minutes)

Richardson comes back to to the podium “With that we have a few minutes to take questions.”

An MSNBC reporter speaks up.

"Mr. President, what do you say to critics of yours as well as Governor (Abbott), Senator (Cruz), and other officials who argue the failure of many officials to forsee and act on this once in a lifetime tragedy. Temperatures dipped below zero across Texas and other states. Over four million households across Texas were and are still without power, for multiple days at this point. There were forecasts days ahead of time showing this would be bad, and yet minimal action was taken to protect lives and livelihoods in Texas. My second question is, what actions would you consider to reform the electric grid and possibly negotiate with the state of Texas into converting to the nationwide grid?"

[Gordano and Lysandus]

A reporter from CNN spoke up first, "Mr. President, do you think that the politically-motivated separation of the Texas power interconnection from the rest of the United States to avoid federal oversight contributed to and exacerbated the failure of the grid, and hampers the ability to support the local power network on a federal level?"

---

And then a reporter from MSNBC, "Mr. President, there's been a long term failure to take substantive action on homelessness, and people with no permanent shelter are most at risk from extreme weather incidences like this. Texas has one of the highest rates of homelessness in the country. What will your Administration do to lessen this issue in future?"

“Look in the days to come I promise plenty of questions will be asked about what could have been done better at all levels and until we have a detailed breakdown of what exactly broke down and why, it think it would be premature for me do give any kind of policy prescription … but it’s important to remember this was the worst it’s been in 70 years.”

——

“We just passed the ARA which includes Hundreds of billions in support for the homeless population, addiction treatment and mental health assistance, low cost housing and shelter programs…. programs like snap as well have been funded to a massive degree.”

“As for Texas specifically I think you should check your numbers… per capita the worst homeless rates are in states like California, Hawaii, New York… if memory serves Texas isn’t even in the top 20 despite its massive population growth.”

Watching from behind the scenes, the Press Secretary buried his face in his hands and groaned, going to send one of his deputies to fetch someone from the Comms staff to tell him who gave the President some of his talking points, and to send an urgent memo to the Chief of Staff to tell him to turn his television set on.

"Addiction treatment. Wonder how good that works on fucking hypothermia," he muttered to himself, getting his phone out to start rapidly taking down notes.

[Gordano and Lysandus]

Gene Obradovic
@SenatorObradovic
obradovic.senate.gov | Chicago, IL

---

Whilst this President continues to fluff his figures and show his poor understanding of the legislation he's signed into law, here's a reminder that in Wisconsin we have two great candidates either of whom'll make a great Senator for - (1/3)

---

- the Badger State. Attorney General Natasha Gauthier is a champion of justice and whose election would be a landmark; whilst Everson Boyd is a tireless fighter for working Americans and has written substantial legislation to help - (2/3)

---

- ordinary folks back onto their feet. We will be stronger by having one of them available to hold this Administration to account and ensure sensible, bipartisan government. (3/3)

[Helliniki Katastasis]

Governor Mick Doherty
@NYStrong
mynewyork.gov | Albany, NY

---

Watching President Richardson try to excuse the unimaginable destruction and sorrow occuring in Texas right now with mental health statistics and meaningless per capitas is a sight to see. - (1/3)

---

- Let there be no mistake - we need action, and we need it now. I hope @SenBenHertzog and @SpeakerSimone take this opportunity to show what being American really means - compassion, not mistruth. - (2/3)

---

- In addition, I will be deploying 3,500 New York national guardsmen to Texas to help alleviate problems. I will also be asking heads of Con Edison and NYSEG to asisst down in the Lone Star State as well. Pray for Texas. (3/3)

[Helliniki Katastasis]

"Of course, I'll do what I can on my end. Depends on what the state legislature does, but I'm hoping to cut into the North Country. Should be fairly easy if we use Albany and Syracuse to our advantage. Out west, it would be smart to use Buffalo, Rochester, and Ithaca to clump some GOP voters in. In terms of Richardson, I think it'd be smart to emphasize some of the congressional crazies rather than hammer away at Richardskn himself, if he proves to be successful. A successful President and a batsh- Ahem, looney congress is a pretty fair and easy choice in my opinion."

"Well, I'm hoping he'll fall into a trap and do something which'll frustrate the Republican base. If they don't turn out, it'll do the job for us. I've got bills on a number of issues cooking up with people in the House and Senate, hoping we'll get on top of things. Annoyingly, the Republicans haven't announced anything extremely, significantly unpopular yet. Sure, they've got some crazy bills up but I can hardly campaign on the Endangered Species Act." She sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. "I'm going to need to have this conversation with the Governor of California too, but I don't know if he can abolish his redistricting commission or bypass it in any way. Not like you in New York or (not-Pritzker) in Illinois."

"As long as we can mitigate the effects of the Republican tomfoolery in Texas and Florida, we'll be in a good spot I suppose."

He paused for a moment, taking a sip of his water.

"I wanted to ask, what do you think of...uhhh....give me a moment here..."

He checked his notes from earlier on the NYC candidate.

"Payne, AJ Payne. Running in the city, I think you've seen his speech at this point."