FLAMES OF LIBERTY (1960 American Political RP) - IC

by **Catalaonia** » Wed Mar 01, 2023 3:17 am

Senator Watts' Mansion - Wisconsin

3rd January, 1960

It was heading deep into the night, and Arthur was playing pool with a favoured state representative, Donald Burns, with his secretary, a bleach blonde, 20-something, wearing a mini-skirt and flashy shite high heels, was sitting, filling out paperwork. Watts had come quite lazy during the last year, wanting to play pool, go to expensive bars, enjoy expensive meals, although he would still regular attend the Senate when needed, meet with donors etc. As the balls clashed together once more, they discussion continued. With one hand on a glass of southern whiskey and another on the pool cue, he awaited his turn, sitting on his armchair.

"Long can shut his socialist mouth! Man's a fool and everyone knows it!" He exclaimed to Burns, both chuckling of their disliking for the populist.

"He's a populist overall, as are you, Arthur. Man's gotta do what a man's gotta do" He replied, taking a sip of the beer bottle, before striking a simple put on the table.

"Well, I'm branded as a populist, and that's how I'll get to the White House, branding myself as a man of the people, advocating for "what's best for the true people of America". He paused, as they both chuckled over his mockery of the populist slogans. "In truth, I'm the very thing they loathe!" Arthur laughed to his own joke, taking a large gulp of his apple whiskey.

"Have you talked to the Governor yet?" Asked the Representative, as the flow of the pool game became slower and slower, the drinking becoming more and more frequent.

"Nelson? Not in a few weeks. That hippie liberal doesn't wanna talk to anyone with a sense of conservatism" He'd reply back, striking another one of his stripped balls into the pocket. "You gotta long way back from here" Added Watts, now taking a further lead in the game.

"Found a wife yet, Donald? I'm sure you've got it in your locker somewhere?" Questioned the senator lightly, swirling his drink around as he awaited an answer.

"Not exactly easy, Arthur. You're just a lucky sonofabitch!" He'd chuckle as did the Senator, with now the representative walking up for a shot.

"Well, she's the pick of the lot, Donald. Perfect body, and dumb as a rock" Said the senator in a fairly brutal way, whispering the last part to the state representative, knowing this could've been heard by his wife, sleeping a few doors down.

"And your secretary?" Added on Donald, still chuckling after his last statement.

"Her? She's even better, cause she has some bloody brains! But I'm pretty settled anyway. Can't keeping hoping from one girl to another, can ya?" Said the Senator, finishing off his whiskey. "Lindsay, another wiskey!" Demanded the former JP Morgon banker, now slumped on his chair, finally taking off his jacket, with just a blue shirt and a jet black tie.

"Coming, sir.." Replied his secretary, now refilling the glass of whiskey with another top-up.

"No. no you can't. You been thinking about going for Governor, Arthur?" Asked the representative, sipping on his beer bottle again.

"Sometimes, but being a senator is just as important, if not more. With the contacts in the police, as-well as giving... recommendations.. to the Governor over his cabinet, I've practically got de-facto control over alot of the public services". He'd smirk to this, knowing himself this was corruption. Adding on, he stated, "I've got a meeting with the Head of Police tomorrow anyway, discussing some new police order bill. Don't have a rat's arse what it's about, but I'll see.." Added Watts, slurping on his whiskey again.

Donald checked his watch, it was time to go. Heading into the very early hours of the morning, he slipped on his overcoat, preparing to leave. "I'll be going now. Thanks for.. this, Arthur" Said the representative, now walking towards the door slowly.

"Your very welcome my friend! Safe safe and classy!" He'd jokingly salute him, as the door opened and closed in a matter of a few seconds.

Now slumped in chair, alone, he'd quickly usher over, without a word, for his secretary to come over, as he slipped his tie off in a very drunk manner, his eyes peering open and closed.

"Yes, Mr Watts?" Asked the secretary, now sitting on the opposite chair.

"Is it possible to become President this year?" He'd ask quite bluntly, still drinking from his whiskey.

"Uhm.. well, potentially. But you're a republican, and we have a republican president, so it would be unlikely, sir" Replied the Secretary in a calm manner, trying not to enrage the populist, or so-called populist.

"Hm. Well, I should get off to bed. Just pp-put the briefings on my desk and I'll read them in the morning. Get a good rest" Spoke the drunken senator, swaying left and right as he opened his bedroom door down the hall, the door closing shut with a bang.

L'Etoile Restaurant, Madison, Wisconsin

5th January, 1960

It was just heading for 7:00 PM, and Senator Watts and his fiancé, Amber Rosset, hoping in the coming months, to be Amber Watts. Walking down the street, now only a few minutes away from the fine dining restaurant. Clutching his wives hand, the 47-year old Arthur Watts, wearing a jet-black tuxedo, saw a homeless man on the sidewalk. Walking beside him almost, he gave him a sharp and glaring stare, thinking to himself, Homeless beggar... should get of his arse and start working. Watts and Amber walked onwards to the restaurant to meet with one of Watts' old friends from JP Morgan, now a fairly big man within the New York Branch. The meeting, while mostly a general catch-up of old friends, was for mostly insider trading, something which he had been accused several times of.

"Hello, Arthur, great to see ya!" Started his old chum, David Blair, shaking Arthur's hand firmly. "Another wife, that's your 3rd one so far" Added on the banker, as both Arthur and David chuckled at the light-hearted joke.

"Soon to be, David. How's JP?" Asked the Senator, now sitting down, pouring the bottle of wine into his glass, the red liquid tumbling into the glass.

"Good, very good. Got my own little group of freshman yuppie's to work on. How's the bastard senate then?" Replied David, as he sipped on the red wine, refreshing to his mouth.

"Senates' a senate, eh. It does good for itself, but those damn socialists are bloody annoying, that bastard Long needs a kick up the arse!" He'd exclaim, chuckling with David, the two both having a hatred, or more disliking, to the democrat senator.

A waiter, a woman, looking within her mid-20's, walked over with a small notepad, ready to take their orders. "And what can I get for you guys today?" Asked the waitress.

"I'll take the crab cakes for starter, Cassoulet for main.. and you for desert!" He'd chuckle with David, as did the waitress, though a little embarrassed and red in the face. "Only joking, I'm fine for desert.." He'd still be laughing, taking a sip of his red wine to calm himself down.

Later in the evening...

It was approaching 9:30 PM, and the group of 4, the two couples, were still there, sipping on their glasses of wine, chatting about all sorts. Senator Watts and David were now talking business, a little risky as they had consumed a fair amount of alcohol. "So.. David, I'm looking to make a few dollars on the market soon, just for a bit of fun.. any special tips you could give me?" He'd give him a jokingly-timed wink, now leaning back on the chair, awaiting a response.

"Well, it'd play it safe next few days, if you know what I mean. Oh, and I had another question - you gonna go for the presidency?" Asked David, now sitting a little forward, awaiting the answer.

"Nah. Too many oldies in the mix. Gonna wait it out, it got at least another 10 years before I'll be running my date. Might go for Governor in a couple, but im just focusing on my life, if you get what I mean". Responded the Senator, taking the last sip of his wine.

"Waiter! Bill please!" Exclaimed Arthur, with their respective partners now putting on their coats, as Arthur and David slowly slipped on their overcoats. Eventually, the Waitress came with the bill, with a 50% cut in the bill. A small note was on the bottom of it, starting, "For an old friend". Clearly the owner, he'd begin to place the cash on the table, as the 4 of them exited the expensive fine dining restaurant.

Senator Watts' Mansion

5th January, 1960

Later that night...

Sitting on the end of his bed, Arthur was reading through a piece of legislation which was looking to go through the state house of representatives. Tired, he peered through his circular glasses, reading through each clause one by one, bored out of his mind. Soon, the door to the master bedroom opened, his wife wearing nothing but a light pink robe, exiting the large bedroom.

"Honey, when are coming to bed?" She asked in a slightly flirtatious way, now slowly walking towards him.

"In one minute, just gotta finish this off.." He'd say, reading a little quicker now.

"Come on.. it's late, and I want to go to bed with you.." She's reply, pecking the top of his slightly balding head, with Arthur looking up to her.

"Alright, Alright, coming.." He'd say quite swiftly, taking off his glasses, placing them fairly carelessly on the sheet of paper, as he tracked to the bedroom for a good night rest.

by **Cybernetic Socialist Republics** » Wed Mar 01, 2023 10:40 am

January 6th, 1960: Governor Nelson writes and sends a letter

Senator Gary,

While the battle is far from over and your method of making sure that the senate will be able to pass the bill was unconventional, I thank you for your strong support for the voting rights act.

I believe that this act represents not only a great victory for constitutional rule in this country, I believe that it can and should represent the bold signal towards a Renewal of the republican party.

There are those within the Republican party that neglect its progressive legacy and it's original promise. There are those want to remain stuck to a status quo that arose nearly 100 years ago, where Industrial dynamism won an empathetic victory over the aristocratic privilege represented by the institution of slave power. Even as the power of industrialists gradually calcified into a new stagnant oligarchy.

In my estimation, Theodore Roosevelt was the first president to recognize this issue and he sought to rectify it with trust busting. Yet as much as it helped, he'd grow to recognize that the solution had to come from om rasing the floor rather than just tinkering with the top. He recognized this most acutely when he was out of office and when he tried to take the leadership of the republican party back he had found the forces of the status quo would make sure to lock him out, regardless of his popularity.

So progressivism found itself in the wilderness, with part of it's policy borrowed by Franklin Roosevelt but without the ability to carry out the full project. Their party and their conditions would not allow for it.

I believe this election provides both conditions and the opportunity to reform the republican party. The Democrats, more or less, have a super majority in both houses. There is plenty of space for new progressive republicans congress to sweep into. Over the course of my presidential campaign that began last year, I have worked to establish ties and mutual support with such potential new congress members across the country. The conditions too, are ripe, the president is popular, yet the right of the party is critical of him. Civil rights can function as a moral wedge, not only between the parties but within the Democratic party, presenting is an opportunity for a sweeping victory from wear. To Midwest to northeast, with perhaps some inroads into the south given sufficient African American support if voting rights are enforced in time.

This can only be realized if the conservative faction of this party does not win the republican nomination. To that end, we need unity. Given that I've been running for the better part of a year now and have campaign infrastructure not only in place, but in action, it would make the most sense for the unity to happen under my campaign.

However, you provide a connection to media across the country significantly deeper than my own, along with a better mastery of the senate, along with popularity in the critical state of California. Which is why I am asking you endorse me for president and to be my vice presidential nominee.

I think we have far more agreements than disagreements and combined, I believe we'd be capable of delivering a landslide victory not only nationally, but within the Republican party, presenting us with the opportunity to drastically renewal both.

I hope you accept this proposal.

Governor Nelson.

by **New Luciannova** » Wed Mar 01, 2023 1:04 pm

January 9-12, 1960
New York, New York.

Constantine and Takako had spent the duration of the announcement day in New York. They visited the Orthodox Church and met with immigrant populations, especially from Eastern Europe and Japan. To Ukrainians, Russians, Poles, and others who fled the Bolsheviks and Nazis, Dr. Aleskevitch was in many ways a poster boy for their relevance and ties.

The fact that he had eaten sushi and spoke some Japanese and had a Japanese spouse had helped him make inroads into the Asian community of the Big Apple.
Aleskevitch did his best to meet with immigrant groups, relating to them. When he was growing up he spoke as much Ukrainian in his home as he did English. Takako's parents learned English as a second language as well. He told Catholic groups about the discrimination they faced and how he was in many ways more Catholic that Protestant. He met with a Ukrainian artisan who had made nestling dolls of previous notable US Presidents with Aleskevitch as the last one. He was surprised it had been made so recently, but the artist said he could make similar objects in "about an hour."
Aleskevitch in Harlem discussed his view on Civil Rights and said "Equal rights today, equal rights tomorrow, equal rights forever!" He mentioned his own story of seeing the oppression of blacks in the South when he found two bodies hanging and discovered one was alive. The man died shortly after the doctor had lowered him, but what stuck with him was not that the man died but how the police were somewhat apathetic to what he called "a double murder." He mentioned how he and his wife were not allowed to sit together in a segregated restaurant. He told his usual doctor talking point about how, as a doctor, he knew people share the same body parts of the same quality.
Aleskevitch visited Wall Street to try to speak to business groups as well. He did his best to show his reputation as an enemy of Marxism and socialism and how he wanted to free up markets and lower taxes and scale back many of the provisions of the New Deal which he called "a money pit." He stated he supported the President, but felt he never pushed hard enough where he needed to. He stated that many others in Washington were too soft in fighting Bolshevism and National Socialism.
He saved Wall Street to the last day, simply because getting business leaders together would be more time consuming than simply touring neighborhoods and visiting cultural centers and churches.
His image was that of a son of immigrants, a smart doctor, a war hero, a pious Christian, and a man who spoke his mind. He was in many ways the embodiment of the American dream. His policies were that of civil rights, a return to freer markets and lower taxes, and a Red and Brown hunter.
He held a fund-raiser in New York.
January 10-14
returned to Connecticut to continue that. He was fortunate that Connecticut was a wealthy state and he had little trouble raising money in the Constitution State, relying on those who helped him win for US Senate. In many ways his rise was surprising as he wasn't the usual member of the old Protestant stock that came to resemble the New England sonservative elite. He stopped by Yale University for an event as well where he recieved a warm welcome from many current and former bonesmen including members of the Bush and Taft families. Connecticut was his own personal cash cow, but he had to hit New Hampshire.
He lacked a large campaign team, but put feelers out in Connecticut and a number of students at Yale seemed interested in helping him.
January 15-19
Aleskevitch followed I-95 spending the 1st day hitting Providence by day and Cape Cod by night. He spent the rest of the 16th in Cape Cod, hitting the conservative peninsula before spending the evening and the next morning in Boston. He didn't have a large campaign team, but with a small grouping of cars full of the people who worked for his Senate campaign he at least could schedule and attend events.
By the 17th he finally reached New Hampsshire, a state far more engaged than any being among the first states to vote. He attended town halls, business tours, met with friendly politicians, and held rallies. New Hampshire wasn't as immigrant dense as Connecticut or New York, but his messaging on how Orthodox and Catholics were "similar" was something he wanted to sink in, as were some of his plans to reduce taxes, which appealed to the wealthy New England blue bloods.
January 19-20
Finishing up in New Hampshire, he continued into Vermont, one of the most conservative states at the time. Although a growing hippy population was emerging in Vermont. Aleskevitch warned the wealthy residents and farmers about the counter-culture and promoted his anti-socialist message. He visited local small businesses and toured several dairy farms.

The next day he would be headed toward Iowa, hoping to rope in some voters there.
He was trying to think of what states would help him most. Florida had a lot of WWII veterans, as did California. California also had a large Asian population, wihch Takako might be able to connect with. Hawaii had a very large Japanese population that he might be able to win over. He also considered Alaska due to it being a former Russian colony and still had some Russian elements present.

by **Sao Nova Europa** » Wed Mar 01, 2023 3:13 pm

A PUBLIC AFFAIRS SHOW
with MICHAEL JACKSON

INTERVIEW WITH WALLACE DISNEY

Michael Jackson: "Today, at Firing Line, we welcome to our show Wallace Disney, the President of the Disney Brothers Studio and a candidate in the Republican presidential primaries. Welcome, Mr. Disney."

Wallace Disney: "My deepest gratitude for giving me this opportunity, Mr. Jackson. I am happy to be here."

Jackson: "Mr. Disney, you announced your candidacy for the presidency of the United States. You have no prior political or military experience. Why should the American voters trust you with the highest of offices? Can you handle the challenges of the presidency?"

Wallace Disney: "Fair concerns; I understand the people's reservations. While it's true that I had no political office nor held any rank in the military, my contributions to America is second to none. I'm sure our veterans, including your father, still remember the films they watched sent from home. Goofy, Donald Duck, and Mickey Mouse fought along side our heroes in the Pacific. You can see them on the bombers, the ships, and even on the beds of many American soldiers. I created the childhoods Americans of this generation has grown up with. They need someone who grew up with them. Someone who understands them. Someone who can guide them.

And I am no stranger to the burden of leadership. After all, I wouldn't be as successful if I didn't know how to delegate the duties within the studio nor inspire our amazing artists and actors to perform to the best of their ability. The office of the presidency would be a challenge indeed but not one that intimates me."

Jackson: "Care to elaborate on your second point? What is your business management style and how would your experiences as a businessman aid you as President?"

Wallace: "Certainly. Though I miss the days I used to be the artist, the growth of the company have expanded my duties as President of Disney Brothers Studio to new roles. As for my style? I try to inspire joy and imagination in the artists, I want to feel what I feel when I pick up the paintbrush, to see what I see when the colors on the canvas merge into something beautiful. I go around the studio, talking to them, getting to know them, helping them understand more.

People all the time ask me I enjoy being wealthy but I always say this: 'I don't make movies to make money. I make money to make movies.'

As businessman, it's my responsibility to grow the company to its full potential. As President of the United States, I would do the same: inspiring the American people onto prosperity and happiness."

Jackson: "Before we can get into specific policy details, can you describe your general vision for the country? What is your platform for America?"

Wallace Disney: "The future, what else? I'm sure you know this feeling. The feeling of hunger for knowledge. A thirst for greatness. A desire to explore the unknown and the unreachable. My platform for America is an America that never existed but one that could. The people in this country, filled with strife and suspicion, because of petty politics."

Jackson: "That is a good sentiment, but a bit vague. But I'm sure you will elaborate further on your platform. Let us begin with domestic affairs first. What are the economic policies a Disney administration will follow?"

Wallace Disney: "Freeing the market of overbearing regulation. I will be putting the capital back in capitalism and into the hands of millions of potential entrepreneurs through deregulation. President Jackson may have the right mindset but I believe he has gone too far. The calm before the storm.

We need to encourage free trade with our allies and the outside world. We can't shut them down with tariffs and red tape. We are a nation of laborers and innovators. The prices shouldn't be set by the government but the people. They are the buyers, the consumers, the foundation of our capitalist system. They know what they want."

Jackson: "That is a refreshing approach in an era where even many Republicans have accepted government interventionism as a given - and a sentiment I personally sympathize with. Yet, I would like to ask for some specific policies. What taxes would a Disney administration reduce or abolish? Which government programs and departments would a Disney administration downsize or abolish? What will be the focus of your deregulatory efforts?"

Wallace Disney: "Hoping to start reducing taxes on small businesses and corporations first, to given them more opportunities to increase their operations, expand workforce and raise wages for their employees. All in order to promote the American Capitalism where honest men set honest prices and earn honest pay.

Then I'll reduce taxes on the American people; to put more money in their pocket so they can spend more and worry less. Much of the sorrows of this world is because of heavy taxes. I can assure you, no nation lives on taxes alone. We can offset this decease in tax with an increase in exports by removing the trade barrier.

As for government programs, I have to admit, I am still currently looking into this issue. For what I can tell you, there is one too many of these government programs and departments. Wasteful spending that could be rectified with proper consolidation of responsibilities. I shall endeavor to find where bureaucratic overlap occurs and seek to resolve it."

Jackson: "Would you touch social security? Or is that particular government program outside of your plans to cut government spending?"

Wallace Disney: "Social Security is an interesting topic. I won't consider abolishing it until I am given the full picture. For now, I plan for Social Security to be under review first to see if it can be made more efficient."

Jackson: "So, Mr. Disney, you wouldn't rule out abolishing social security? I'm asking because it is one of the most important government programs and the American people have a right to know what you are planning to do about social security."

Wallace Disney: "To abolish social security without replacing it with an alternative would be folly. No, I wouldn't abolish it until I have given Americans something better. Reform though, that I can attempt."

Jackson: "What kind of reform do you have in mind? Would pensioners be affected by it?"

Wallace Disney: "No reform plan so far. My team is still gathering data nor am I not vested with the knowledge that comes with the presidency. If the program is undoubtedly immaculate, there wouldn't need for a reform."

Jackson: "One criticism levied against your campaign is that it is too vague. How do you respond to this criticism? Why should the American people choose you over candidates who have offered more detailed policy programs?"

Wallace Disney: "I find it that criticism to be...almost petty. Vague, ironically. I think my messages are very clear. Hence why I'm doing an interview with you right now, Mr Jackson. My critics only hear what they want to hear and drown out the rest. Unfortunately, my competitors would only do just that. They only speak to their own audience and not the whole world."

Jackson: "You do have to admit, however, Mr. Disney that you have yet to offer specific policy promises on the economy besides a general sentiment towards reducing taxes and cutting government spending. The American people would want to know if your tax cuts will put us into a deficit and if your cuts in government spending will affect their welfare programs. Can you respond to this?"

Wallace Disney: "Their worries are understandable but remember what I said earlier 'Nations don't live off of taxes alone.' The deficit taht arises would be a momentary relapse and the tax cuts would be gradual to allow for the free market to adjust naturally. Do it too quickly and the process would only in failure or worse.

The income of the Federal Government must come from trade. Free trade is the life blood of our capitalist order, the transfer of money and goods. Not from high tariffs, not from high taxes, but trade.

As for the welfare programs, the reduction in government spending is to be for the reduction of wasteful spending from too much bureaucracy. The quality of the welfare program shouldn't change."

Jackson: "Let us move on to the issue of civil rights. What is your position? Do you support further legislation to safeguard the rights of the colored people of this country or do you believe such legislation violates states' rights?"

Wallace Disney: "Allow me to be controversial, Mr. Jackson, but I find the state of the unfortunate and the unwelcomed to be absolutely tragic. I see millions of children whose dreams are being squashed by the preconceived bias of stronger men.

I had a wonderful actor, named James Baskett, who had won the Academy Honorary Award in 1948 for his performance in Song of the South. The first colored man to do so in film history and he could see the film's premiere in Atlanta because of his skin. Imagine that! Not being able to witness your life's work.

If he was as lazy and stupid that these strong men make him out to be, he would never have gotten the role. But they are wrong and I made sure that Mr. Baskett got honored for it.

This civil rights would help start the long path of correcting old injustices."

Jackson: "How would you address the concerns of white Southerners though? And how, as President, would you work towards unifying again this nation?"

Wallace Disney: "Can you elaborate, please? What are their concerns to be exact? Is it over the colored folk?"

Jackson: "Their concerns are over the federal government intervening in what they believe to be states' rights. Do you believe such concerns are legitimate?"

Wallace Disney: "States' rights over what exactly? From my perspective, it seems silly that the Civil Rights bill would spell so much doom for the South, much less a violation. The Federal Government is sworn to protect its citizens, the new bill wouldn't change that."

Jackson: "In the past few years, we've seen violence and riots from anti-war and civil rights activists, as well as a drugs epidemic and an increase in violent crime. What are your plan to restore law and order in this country?"

Wallace Disney: "It won't be easy but first, I would have to identify the root causes of such conditions. Anti-War? President Jackson's conduct in West Africa has disillusioned the American youth. He promised them results. He promised them victory. President Jackson has lied so much to the youth and adults that the office of the presidency has lost its virtues.

He was misguided at best. Extremely incompetent at worst.

And what do these disillusioned youths and activists do when all their expectations are ruined by the Jackson presidency? Turn to drugs to escape the bright unbearable realities of failure. Failure of leadership. Failure of accountability. And how do these drug users get their fix? Through crime and misdemeanors.

Children don't grow up wanting to become criminals. They become criminals when they're not allowed to grow up. They seek to regain what they have lost.

As President of the US, I would help recover what was taken away from them and set them straight. To give them opportunities of reform and to repent. Whether a return to schooling or a chance to re enter the labor force."

Jackson: "American society is divided over the African Campaign. 46% support the campaign while 42% oppose it. Proponents of the campaign - including the President - argue that West Africa is too vital geopolitically since it allows to maintain a sizeable military presence to the south of Nazi-dominated Europe. It also prevents Fascism expansionism in Africa. Opponents argue that it is a wasteful and immoral campaign. What is your opinion on the war?"

Wallace Disney: "I believe both sides have merit but the point of contention lays within the conduct. Allow me to digress, we need to stop Nazi Germany on all fronts from spreading their despicable message across the world, that much is agreed upon. The plan under the president isn't inherently immoral or wasteful, just how it was implemented gave it the impression as such.

America is fighting the right cause for the wrong reasons. We fight to keep West Africa free but we shouldn't fight to prop up a colonial regime long since due its expiration. The US soldiers should fight the Germans that are on the dark continent, not Native Africans.

This is a new era and with it a new kind of warfare. One that is not fought with bullets and bandages but with price tags and products."

Jackson: "Interesting. Can you elaborate on your policy on Africa, if you were elected President?"

Wallace Disney: "Our country is founded on the principle of self determination for the people and their country. In Africa, the US needs to stop fighting other people's battles. They need to fight for their own freedom, their own security, because if the US are the ones doing this task, the Native Africans would never be free, never understand what freedom means.

Freedom isn't given. It's earned. If I'm president, I would use the experience gained from this war to arm the West Africans to take the fight to Germany and Italy. They are the evil empires seeking to desecrate their land and it is imperative that we don't become like that. The boys across the pond that wish to come home can home home while those who see the righteousness in this struggle can stay to pass the duties onto the West Africans. Those men can educate and train the anti-German natives to better resist the fascist better than we could ever hope to dream."

Jackson: "How would you manage the transition from colonial French rule to native rule? Especially considering the opposition from the French themselves. Can you be certain that such a transition will not be botched and result in a collapse into tens - or even more - statelets controlled by warlords or militant groups?"

Wallace Disney: "I'll manage it with time. We'll first start by educating them in the wars of war so we can set up a civilian infrastructure to transition into semi-autonomous governments. Education and patience is key here. Once the conflict is over, we'll transition the schooling from military affairs to domestic and civil matters, granting the native Africans the expertise needed to establish their own system of government with our constitution as their model. An expensive endeavor but better to spend money than lives.

The Free French, as much as it pains me to say this, must accept this proposal since it will carry through with or without their consent. France exist and it is Vichy whether we like it or not. De Gaulle can protest but he must be aware that those who hang onto everything end up holding onto nothing. It's best if Free France consider consolidating their powerbase for their continual survival and their hope of liberating the Metropole. They can't save Paris if they can't save themselves from their own deficiencies."

Jackson: "As President, you will be recognizing Vichy France as the legitimate French government? That would be quite the shift from current American foreign policy."

Wallace Disney: "Vichy France represents the French people in Europe. There are no ways around it no matter how much it displeases us. Free France is free only in name nor does it represent the French population that it claims to do. It's a colonial power, dominating the native groups, nor even a democracy, it's run by a cabal of French military men. We'll help De Gaulle in anyway we can, but we must draw the line at his unreasonable expectations where he thinks America would liberate France in his stead."

Jackson: "To be clear, as President you would recognize Vichy France as the legitimate French government? Yes or no?"

Wallace Disney: "Only if Free France does not reform itself to represent the ideals it claims to fight for."

Jackson: "What is your policy towards China, a country that used to be an ally but has since moved closer to Germany? Do you support engaging with India and bolstering the defenses of Thailand, Korea, Japan, and the Philippines to safeguard American interests in the region? Or are you in favor of reapproaching China?"

Wallace Disney: "Uncle Sam is already locked into a struggle against the Nazi behemoth. We don't need to find another enemy to fight. In fact, the question you just asked is a false choice fallacy.

Don't forget that China was once a trusted ally in the war against the Japanese Empire. Yellow Perilism has made us forget it. China is not fascist state. Authoritarian yes but the potential to become a Chinese Democracy is there and it's real. Xenophobia isn't going to steer China away from the German sphere, only guarantee it.

Chiang Kai-shek, for all his reputation for being corrupt, is not an idiot. He knows that the US has one thing that Nazi Germany would never give. The one thing he desires most: respect. Respect as equals. Germany for all its boasting of making Asians honorary Aryans, is still relegating them underneath the so called 'Aryan master race'.

So instead of asking if its between China and our friends in the Pacific, we should be asking if China could be included into the alliance together with our Asian friends. With that I say yes, we can. Once Chiang Kai-shek sees the foolishness of German supremacy, he'll steer China back to us since we will have the better deals for him."

Jackson: "How will you be able to persuade our allies - such as the Koreans and the Japanese - that are fearful of China's newfound assertiveness to back your plan? Or will you ignore their concerns?"

Wallace Disney: "By communicating to them. It sounds simple but that's how it works. Much of the ills that plague us in our lives is because of people not communicating with each other. I'll get the Chinese, the Koreans, the Japanese to start talking to each other so we can finally get to the core root of the grievances they have with each other."

Jackson: "Mighty optimistic of you... We are running out of time, so I can ask two more questions. My first one is about your relationship with President Jonathan Jackson. The President is highly popular amongst Republican voters and still enjoys personal popularity on a national level as well - yet you've criticized him harshly. How do you intend to win over the Republican nomination and keep the Grand Old Party unified by attacking to such a degree the de facto head of the party?"

Wallace Disney: "To begin with, my criticism against President Jackson are not attacks against his character, only his conduct. He has steered the party away from its free market principles. Pushing down big government when he should have pushing for small. I intend to win over the party by helping them understand the value of deregulation and placing trust in pockets of the American people. The Republican Party, in time, would see the true extent of my vision and would grow to appreciate it for what it accomplished."

Jackson: "What is your evaluation of the character of the President? And how do you intend to keep moderate Republicans in line if you win the nomination?"

Wallace Disney: "I would say President Jackson is a right man for the wrong job when it comes to his character. As for the moderates, rather than just telling them what I intend to accomplish, I will show them. Once they get the full picture, we will find ourselves amicable to each other."

Jackson: "We've run out of time, so instead of another question, I will ask you to shortly address our viewers."

Wallace Disney: "To the wonderful audience out there, if your interested in hearing more from my campaign, I am planning to host a very special art gallery in Disneyland that would last for a throughout April this year. I'm planning to gather artists, musicians, and entertainers of all kinds to celebrate the imagination of youth and the joys of childhood. Vote for Disney and we'll make this nation that happiest place on earth."

Jackson: "And with that, we conclude tonight's show. Wish all our viewers a good night."

by **Sao Nova Europa** » Wed Mar 01, 2023 4:03 pm

January 7, 1960
Chicago

Jimmy's next big case involved the murder of Alice, Horatio Simpson's wife. Horatio was a reputable businessman but he had troubles with his wife recently - and Jimmy knew that in most murders the murderer was usually the partner of the victim. He followed discreetly Horatio for hours, tracking him through the streets of Chicago.

As he trailed the suspect, Jim noticed him glance nervously over his shoulder, checking to see if he was being followed. Jim stayed back, careful not to draw attention to himself. Eventually, Horatio led Jim to a dark alley, waste cans overflowing and littered with stinking garbage. He could swear he had seen a rat too. Jim hid behind a waste can and patiently waited. Horatio pulled out a gun and was about to disassemble it. Jim knew that he was trying to dispose of the murder weapon, and he knew he had to act fast.

Jim would step out of the shadows, his gun drawn, and shout "Freeze". At least that was the plan. But the meowing of a stray cat ruined it. Horatio realized that someone was hiding behind the waste can. He at once turned his gun in Jim's direction and fired. Rounds pounded into the waste can. The cop grabbed his .44 magnum and returned fire. The bullet grazed the man's cheek.

Horatio fired two more rounds at Jim and then made a ran. Jim sprinted behind him. He chased him down the alley, ducking around trash bins and jumping potholes. His heart was racing. Pounding. He could feel each beat pulsing in his neck. Jim was catching up to the man, who was visibly getting tired. Horatio turned around and threw his gun, hitting Jim square in the face. He then kicked Jim's magnum out of his hand. Horatio was a veteran of the Pacific War and knew what he was doing. Now it was to be down to good, old hand-to-hand combat.

Jim kicked him in the side. The man groaned loudly in pain. He threw a punch, but Jim blocked it with ease. Jim then counterattacked with a few quick punches to his chest and an elbow to the nose: the guy's nose broke and blood sprayed. Horatio retreated a few steps to create some space between himself and Jim. He charged at Jim again and slammed a fist into the cop's chest. Jim gritted his teeth and kicked him in the groin. The man screamed in pain and Jim found the chance to grab him violently by the throat. "You are under arrest for the murder of your wife, scumbag!"

The man tried to resist. Jim squeezed his throat. His eyes were wild and glistening like a madman. "Do not push me. I ain't like the other cops. I will choke you if you keep resisting."

"Al-al-right!" Jim stopped squeezing him, and the man let out a breath. "I surrender. I did kill my wife. That bitch deserved it! She cheat-"

Jim slammed his fist into the man's face, knocking him out. "Asshole."

by **Sao Nova Europa** » Wed Mar 01, 2023 5:10 pm

French Mali
January 6, 1960

The sun had just begun to rise, casting a warm golden light across the desert. John Riggs crouched in the sand, his M60 machine gun at the ready, scanning the horizon for any signs of movement. His mission: find out a militia camp belonging to the Pan-African Liberation Front and destroy it, as revenge for the recent killings of American troops. The heat was already beginning to rise, and the air was thick with the smell of dust and sand.

The mission had been going on for days, and John was tired. His feet ached from miles of trekking through the barren landscape, and his throat was dry from the scorching sun. But he knew that he had a job to do, and he couldn't let his guard down. As he looked out into the distance, he spotted a faint plume of smoke rising from the horizon. He knew that it could be a sign of the insurgents' camp, and he signaled to his team to move forward.

They approached the camp slowly, sticking to the shadows to avoid detection. John's heart was pounding in his chest as they crept closer, and he could hear the sound of his own breathing in his ears. Finally, they reached the outskirts of the camp. The air was thick with the smell of burning wood and cooking meat, and John could hear the sound of voices coming from within. He signaled to his team to spread out, and they began to move in.

As they entered the camp, John was struck by the chaos and confusion that greeted them. The insurgents were caught off guard, and they scrambled to arm themselves and mount a defense. John's team was outnumbered, but they were well-trained and well-armed, and they quickly took control of the situation. The fighting was fierce and intense, with bullets flying and grenades exploding all around them. John's M60 machine gun roared to life, spitting out bullets as he took aim at his targets. He moved quickly and efficiently, taking out the insurgents one by one. Despite the chaos and danger, John felt a strange sense of exhilaration as he fought. This was what he had been trained for, what he had been born to do. His heart was pounding in his chest, and he could feel the sweat running down his back as he fired his weapon.

"Riggs, to your left!" shouted one of his team members, and John quickly turned to see an insurgent charging toward him. He fired his weapon, but the insurgent was too close. They collided, and John felt the wind knocked out of him as they fell to the ground. The two men grappled on the sand, each trying to gain the upper hand. John could feel the insurgent's hot breath on his face, and he could smell the sweat and dirt on his body. He knew that he needed to act quickly. He reached for his knife, and with a quick motion, he plunged it into the insurgent's chest. The man gasped and fell limp, and John quickly got to his feet. He could hear the sound of gunfire all around him, and he knew that the fight was far from over.

"Keep moving!" he shouted to his team, and they quickly regrouped and moved forward. The fighting was intense, with explosions and gunfire ringing out in every direction.

"We need to take out those RPGs!" shouted one of John's team members, and they quickly made their way toward the insurgent's heavy weapons. John could see the rockets flying toward them, and he knew that they needed to act fast. He fired his machine gun, taking out one of the insurgents manning the RPG. His team quickly took care of the rest, and the rockets stopped raining down on them.

After what felt like hours, the fighting finally began to die down. The insurgents had been defeated, and John's team had emerged victorious. They quickly gathered up any valuable intel they could find, knowing that they would need it for their next mission.

by **Newne Carriebean7** » Wed Mar 01, 2023 5:41 pm

Mooresville, Alabama
January 6, 1960

A native of Alabama, born and raised, ignored the growing flurries within the skies. It was already getting dark, with scarcely an hour of bleeding sunlight that temperately and timidly encroached into the living room. In this living room sat some of the brains behind an operation. Their faces were huddled around in embitterment, yet there was some hope and optimism. There was a small light of progress that was held behind each man’s skulls. Each man, as the only woman on the entire property was confined to her natural condition, within the kitchen where she was expected to conjure up the needed concoctions and be greeted with the love and adoration that she was no more appointed to than when she had tied the knot with that man.

The man in question, stumbled through the ancient screen door comedicaly, getting his foot stuck in the old bucket the Sparks utilized as an umbrella holder. A few large thuds were heard on the floor amid some frantic cussing by the Alabaman before he peeked around his corner and eyed the men within the room.

On the left was his trusted chief of staff, Cletus Spanbuckler. To his direct right was another man, a confederate legend in his own right, draped in gray of some old Mississippians campaign. He had only thought of that old man’s name a few times, never bothering to fully catch it, just knowing that man as “that asshole from Mississippi”. He knew he took upon himself with that god-damn boulder hat and goofy looking cane. It was Joshua something. He dismissed that senile old coot and instead turned his attention to the man that had attempted to keep things under wrap for that old bastard, until he got primaried in ‘54. It was a darn shame, he had started to like that man…

The old legend wasn’t a mississippian carpetbagger, he instead was born and raised right in Alabama, a fact that filled Spark’s eyes with pride at the native stater. The man was about to light his cigarette before he took his eyes on the senior senator from Alabama.

“Senator Sparks. The old man sends his regards. He’d be here in person but he keeps thinking that some coot named Henry Davis is President and he’s currently busy tearin’ him a new one in his mind.. Poor man.”

Senator Sparks grimaced for a moment before holding his head down in slight disappointment, shaking it slightly.

“What a idjit. Anyways, uh… Mister Chamberlain. Shall you introduce me to your associates?”

The Alabaman nodded his head and deferred, as another man stood up and shook the Alabaman’s hand.

“I’m from Georgia. Isobe Beebes is the name, politikin’s my bread and butter. I hope my sleeping arrangements are accounted for.”

“There’s a pull-out bed in the attic, or you can sleep comfortably on our wooden floors.”

“I see..” Replied Beebes, the disappointment evident in his tone before he shifted to a bit more energy.

“Well, I’ve always slept with worse. I once slept out on a park bench in Mobile for two hours straight, in a thunderin’ storm..”

“Why not come in’side a hause fer shelter or sum’thin?”

Beebes shrugged his shoulders and Sparks simply waved them away, now wanting to get down to business.

“Alright-tee genne’men. Let’s git to plannin’ on out how in the sam hell I’m going to git from Alabama to Washin’tin’ Dee Cee next november.”

“Well…” Started Chamberlain, wanting to move things quickly. “How about y’all speak to small crowds, and small towns, no more than a few hunnded. I think that’s a great ol’ way to warm y’all voice up, lest you git stage fright..”

Spark’s glared at the Alabaman, but simply nodded along.

“I see, I see.. Speak to the people, but not all of creation. I don’t intend to fight all of creation. “

“What of Earl?”

“Who?”

Chamberlain flipped through some aging yellowed papers that he had scribbled notes on.

“That fella from Tenn-ass-ee-tee.”

“I hate to answer a question wit another question, but who the hell is Earl?”

Chamberlain’s tired looking eyes decided to do a once over before he caught something, his face turning a shade of embarrassed red to go along with his white complexion.

“Oh, his names Jimmy. What a mean sack of shit.”

“Downright treasonous too! I’m surprised he hasn’t dusted off an ol’ worker’s uniform and started raisin’ hell about class struggles and all that other bull-shit-vickist policies that his great-gran’pappie Marx is spunnin’ in his long ol’ grave fer..”

Sparks replied with adequate animation and venom within his throat. Or that could have been mucus. He didn’t know.

“Well, Genius. What do we do?”

“We just need to sweep that damn rug he’s ridin’ off of. Populism. You know what you are?”

“Morally bankrupt?”

“No. Ok, besides that... You’re a good boy.”

“Damn right I am. I am SPARKIN’ SPARKS! I didn’t spend a full year in the Yoo Knighted States Navy, jumpin’ from sinkin’ ship to sinkin’ ship just to be derided as a man of southern elites. I am not beholden to the Bourbon Democrats, the elites of John Willie’s day! Imma man of the People of this country, the poor, downtrodden farmers like me-selves, and I Ain’t abbouta have that Catfish of the Bayou snatch the banner of wh- I mean populism away from me.”

Chamberlain smiled at the animation that was evident in Spark’s voice. He gingerly put his hands around his shoulders.

“Goddamn. Y’all remind me of the, and forgive the pun senator… ‘Spark’ of an ol’ fren o’ mind. Now you can be all hyped up n’ shit, but don’t go givin’ speeches in the middle of cornfields in Kansas. We ain’t gonna win Kansas with you like that. What we need to do is to organize a full and complete stray-tee-gee in order to git this here campaign off the ground. Here’s what I’m a thinkin’...”

Trevor then laid out a piece of paper in front of him, dated neatly with possible topics of speeches, which stated the following.

WILLIAM SPARKS CAMPAIGN SCHEDULE FROM JANUARY 5 TO JANUARY 20, 1960

Visit to Birmingham, Alabama. Topics: War in Africa, Failures of the Jackson administration, and Segregation.

Trip down to Cave City, Kentucky Topics: talk up birth-city, volunteer to go cave exploring with the locals, talk at length about Running a Conservative Administration, rail against liberalism and fascism. Talk up your efforts in the Brown Scare.

A nice vacation to Little Rock, Arkansas. Topics: Rail against the Jackson Administration’s efforts at integration. Maybe touch on FP.

Take a nice trip down to Mobile, Alabama. Topics: Tour Naval dockyard and promise to revitalize naval production (and jobs for those big burly construction dumbasses) and to keep America strong, but isolationist. Chat a little bit about your withdrawal plan from Africa.

Try not to get shot in St. Louis, Missouri. Nuff’ said. Talk about the right to bear arms and jab at General Jackson while you're at it. Two for One special!

Joshua Sparks simply listened while his Alabaman associate named off the speeches he was to give and the locations he was to give them at. He felt rather encouraged at the level of organization. He didn’t know that Chamberlain’s old boss never had this level of organization, instead stumbling around from stop to stop in the vain attempt at bringing together some coalition.

“Now, I don’t reckon that the conservatives are all too keen on votin’ for me, given the conservative fella in the White House.”

“Well… you might get the redneck vote, and maybe women too..”

“How’d you reckon I win over women? I parade my wife around like she’s some hot shit or somethin’?”

“Well, Natalie can have her uses, other than being seen and not heard of. I think she needs to be present with you on the campaign trail. Y’sees? I want your woman and your ass to be in the same place when them reporters snappa picta o’ you. Got it? Wanna be seen as a famil-lee man and not some gay bastard.”

“I’ll have to see if she’ll be up to tourin’ right round the country. Hell, I might even call it an extended familee-vacation. I think she’d like to be first lady. Heh, heh… hell, she was almost secon’-laddy.”

“I’m well aware of ‘52… That bastard Jackson stole what was rightfully yours…Hargreaves, to be more specific.”

“How n’ the hell’d I know that Stevenson wouldn’t’ve given me my full rights on the trail. He wanted me to shut the hell up after I said something about the KKK and some shit… We won Dixie by thumpin’ margins that year!” Sparks replied, red in the face.

“Senay-toor…” Isobe Beebes began, wiping away some of the spittle that the Alabaman politician had unfortunately gotten onto him.

“That’s a quackjob. Like Abortion. You mention one word about the Klan and this campaign is deader than my cookin’ aspirations.”

“Hot Damn.” Sparks replied, his eyebrows now widening. “You can’t cook fer shit neither? Good god!”

Chamberlain was quick to jump in, hoping to steer the conversation back to what his war council had intended to conduct.

“No disrespect, Semnator-Senator… I’m a lil’ tired right now, but we needa think on up if y’all be a happy sum’ bitch or an attack dog.”

“Like that idjit Arizonan? Thine Actor? He’s as big of a failure governin’ as I was when I fought tooth and nail into Birmingham’s governor’s mansion.”

“No, not like Wallas or whatever his name is. Do you wanna be pass-ive n’ let shit fly into yer face that the Grand Obstructionist Party will slander at you, or do y’all wanna be Sparkin’ Sparks. That mean sum’bitch whom I’ve heard so much ‘bout?” Questioned Chamberlain to his boss.

William Dupont Sparks stands up, masked in the glow of the small twinging candles within that were beginning to falter in their luminescence of the aging members assembled before it.

“It’s time to show ‘em what Sparkin’ Sparks is capable of. Get me my shoes and a good huntin’ rifle. It’s OPEN SEASON ON THE GEE OWAH PEE, N’ THEM DAMN LONGIST COMMIE PINKO QUEEERS!!” Sparks rattled off, shaking the entire house. For once, the strategists for Sparks’ campaign saw a real, real fire in his belly. This was a man set to campaign vigorously, regardless of what shit the media, GOP and other persons of interest threw at the man.

Both men smiled, before a knock on the door was heard. Chamberlain instinctively raced towards it and swung the aging screen door open, seeing the gaunt looking face of an old farmer, complete with a straw hat and wearing dirty clothes, evident from a hard day on the farm.

“Is Sparks here? He needs to get his ass over to my place.” The man spoke with urgency in his voice. The Grandfather of the Deep South stumbled over, nearly tripping over the furniture in his living room before appearing at the door. He waved his political war room adieu and trudged through the snow.

“What’s goin’ on, Gary? Why so urgent?”

“It’s Missus Edmundson, of Minnesota.”

Sparks nodded along. A pit sank in his stomach before he trudged along the snow with him until they reached a much smaller, and much shoddier looking humble abode. It made Spark’s plantation home feel like a complete mansion, even if his was unkept and shoddily falling apart at it’s frames from almost fifty years. He gingerly reached over to the telephone that had been guarded by Gary’s wife, who retreated into the kitchen.

“Missus Edmundson. M’am. M’am! Can you hear me?”

“Y-Yes.. I’m right and present… Is it you, Bill?”

William Sparks balked for a moment. He had never been called bill in his entire life. He was always, always a ‘willy before billy’, kind of kid. Still, there was no time to be correcting her, so he nodded along.

“B-Bill Sparks, at your service m’am.”

There was a small pause before she replied again.

“He’s gone.”

“Really? Have you gotten the proper ID? Did you get the do-g-tags?”

“Veterans Affairs notified me in writing when I was getting my hair done. I came home from shopping and dropped my groceries when… when….wh-when… I got the letter.”

“Ok, Missus Edmundson.”

“Wilma.”

“Ok. Wilma Edmundson. I’m…I’m so sorry… I’m so.. So sorry… I will drop everything to come be with you.” Sparks’s voice oozed compassion, sounding more like a cuddly teddy bear than the grizzly of the south. It was a side that Sparks rarely showed, but even now he was trying to fight back tears.

“N-No… I need, I need a week to git everythin’ ready. For the body to be shipped and for the home to be readied.”

“We-..” Sparks was to ask if he was to be buried in a military or family style cemetery, but he refrained from asking that.

“Did you say something, Willie?”

“N-No.. I’ll be there in a week. I sent you flowers and his favorite box of chocolate covered peanuts through the mail. I had ‘em sent to your house yesser’ day. Give ‘em a few days, and take good care of those flowers.”

“I…I will… Willie… Thank you.”

“The pleasure is all mine. It’s what God would have wanted me to do.”

There was a long pause before she replied.

“I suppose.”

*Click*

Cottonwood, Arizona
January 7, 1960

A stampeding mass of cattle, evident by a massed dust storm rumble off in the far distances. A handful of wild coyotes stir awake, trotting down single file near a dying, yet watery pond to quench their animal instincts. Colored rock formations scattered the background, with various hues and shades of purple, red and brown dotting the landscape. The numerous and humble Arizonan cacti dotted the landscape, along with the ubiquitous, yet down to earth, tumbleweed that lazily drifted through.

A strong pair of hands gingerly set down a cold pitcher of lemonade with a slight thud on the oak banister. Said hands then gripped a step before the elderly figurine practically collapsed in his chair. He panted and panted, staring up at the skies.

“Good Lord… Welles is going to murder me..”

“Dad? Dad? Dad?! Where in tarnation are you?!” An all too familiar voice was heard as they began to scrummage and scrimmage about the oak cabin that sat on almost thirty acres of pristine, untouched farmland.

“I’m out here.. Out on the porch!” He yelled, not wanting to part ways with his citric drink from the gods. After a solid few seconds, the son peeked his head around the already rotting screen door.

“You know, I could oil that…” offered Cornelius Crawford “Chip” Fletcher, the patriarch and one of the few surviving members of the Fletcher household.

“At your age?” Welles shook his head. “We might need to get you in a home soon.”

“Nonsense.” Scoffed Chip, who took a rather liberal sip of his lemonade before setting it aside. “I’m as fit as a fiddle! I may not be able to do the work of ten men like I used’to, but I can do the work of one!”

Chip was about to stand up, cane firmly supporting when Welles gingerly forced him back down. The old man was about to put up a fight, but his aging nearly centenarian muscles capitulated and backstabbed his pride.

“Christ… how did mom put up with you?”

“Ma?” The old man was lost in thought for a long moment before it came to him. “Oh.. Your Ma.. I thought… nevermind. Ma handled me as well as she had handled all the other folks before me.”

“I thought…I thought she was mad when we move next door to the Savages.”

“They ain’t Savages!” Barked Chip, to which Fletcher actually retreated away somewhat. The old man let out a lengthy sigh before reaching over for his corn cob pipe. He shook his head disapprovingly at the Governor.

“Didn’t I teach you something about respect?”

“Didn’t they teach you something about not leaving ma?”

The old man’s eyes were filled with rage as he tried to cuss, but he refrained from it, simply turning his head away and sighing.

“Your mother… Bless her soul… she got sick. Typhoid fever. A real killer. Poor gal never had a chance…”

“Is that… that why she cursed us?”

Chip shook his head. “I don’t take much stock in ol’ witches curses. Hell, ain’t you the Governor?”

“I feel like I’m cursed some days.. I try my damndest with the legislature, but they don’t give me any good options!”

“Well… have you tried inviting them over for a good potl-potluck? Welles, I know my time on this earth is short, but I’m gonna at least show you how to make the best goddamn pork barbeque this side of the Grand Canyon.”

The old man slowly gets up, but feels more animated with each gingerly step he takes, walking inside the humble abode that the Governor often retreated towards when not meeting with clients or dealing with the management of Arizona in Phoenix.

“Is your wife around?”

“When she’s not runnin’ off chasing skirt, that is..”

“You know, you really ought to treat her better. She’s the First Lady of Arizona! If she runs off with some other dumb state senator-”

“What? You mean they’ll both be unhappy and in their eighties? No thank you. I think she tolerates me… tolerates the discipline.”

“Discipline? I didn’t raise my son to be an asshat who hits women!”

“N-No, No Chip… I don’t as much as lay a finger on her. She just…gets on my nerves.”

Chip raises his glass of lemonade in approval, his face going slack with slight chuckling.

“Ain’t that the truth. I propose a toast. To women, the solution to and cause of all of life’s problems!”

*clink*

by **Cybernetic Socialist Republics** » Wed Mar 01, 2023 6:57 pm

Ads are published in newspapers and distributed as fliers by the Nelson for President campaign with the following messages, particularly in Iowa:

by **Sao Nova Europa** » Wed Mar 01, 2023 7:39 pm

Greater Germanic Reich, Bavarian Alps
January 8, 1960

Chancellor Speer walked through the entrance hall of Berghof, Hitler's vacation home in the Obersalzberg of the Bavarian Alps. It was there where the Fuhrer spent most of his time. Ever since entrusting the Chancellorship to Speer, Hitler had reduced his public appearances, allowing Speer to become the public face of the Nazi regime. Yet, whenever an important issue came up, Speer would always come to the Berghof to consult the Fuhrer, who remained still the undisputed Master of the Reich.

The entrance hall was filled with a display of cactus plants in majolica pots. Speer made his way to the Great Hall, which was furnished with expensive Teutonic furniture, a large globe, and an expansive red marble fireplace mantel. A sprawling picture window gave a sweeping, open air view of the snow-capped mountains in Austria. Speer found Hitler looking at the mountains. Standing beside him were Reichsmarshal Göring and Bormann, Chief of the Nazi Party Chancellery. The Chancellor remained composed, hiding behind a smile his disdain for his political opponents.

Speer raised his hand in salute. "Heil Hitler!"

"Chancellor," Göring replied. "Good evening."

"Reichsmarshal, I see you returned from your hunting estate," Speer smirked sarcastically.

"My duty to the Fuhrer outweighs all other concerns of mine."

Bormann too greeted the Chancellor with a cold handshake.

It was at that moment that Hitler turned around from the window, and gazed at his Chancellor. "We need to talk," he dryly said, forgoing the usual friendly formalities. "If it wasn't for us, the damn Italians wouldn't have even beaten the Greeks! It is because of us they remain a Great Power! And now, what do they do? They disobey us! They want an opt-out from the common military command. Such disobedience cannot be tolerated!"

Hitler's hands were shaking uncontrollably. Speer did not dare to ponder whether this was out of anger or due to Hitler's worsening health. "My Fuhrer, while it is true that parts of the Italian government are against this reform, we still have considerable influence in the Italian government. With the proper assurances and diplomatic finesse, we can-"

"We should coup them!" Göring interrupted the Chancellor. His faction had long advocated for a more militaristic approach toward Germany's problems. "Place a government in power that will not disobey our commands."

"That would be foolish," Bormann interjected. "Too risky. I agree with Chancellor Speer, however, I believe he is being too soft on the Italians. German-Italian economic ties are important, and Italy has still not fully recovered from the economic crisis. We can exert pressure by threatening them with economic reprisals."

"That should be only our last resort," Speer replied. "Blackmailing the Italians will further strain our ties. We need a more diplomatic approach. We-"

Hitler had been silently watching his subordinates bickering, but he finally intervened. "Albert, I will give you a chance to persuade the Italians with your diplomacy. If you fail, however, we are going to follow Bormann's idea."

Speer nodded.

Hitler tried to say something but instead coughed violently. All three of his subordinates exclaimed "my Fuhrer" in unison. Hitler's body convulsed with the effort of expelling the phlegm from his lungs. His chest was heaving as if struggling for air. The sound was rough and rasping, as if each cough was tearing at his throat. His face contorted in pain with each spasm, and his eyes screwed shut as if trying to ward off the agony. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the coughing subsided, and he slumped back into his chair, his body still shaking with the aftershocks of the fit. He took a few deep, ragged breaths. "Leave me alone!"

The time of Adolph Hitler was soon coming to an end. Speer, Bormann and Göring knew this. The question was who would succeed him?

by **Union Princes** » Wed Mar 01, 2023 11:03 pm

Disney Brothers Studio, in collaboration with Dr. Suess, released a new series of political ads and cartoons endorsing Wallace Disney. These would become a common sight in Disney magazines and election posters.

Anti-Longist Cartoon; putting emphasis on his past history of delaying needed bills hostage for political gain

Jackson's Men Selling Eggs (left) & President Jackson in His Natural Habitat (right)

An Anti-Dixiecrat Cartoon, denouncing segregation as both inefficient and unpatriotic in the anti-fascist effort against the German sphere.

by **Turkducken** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 2:22 am

The Speaker, Speaks

January 8th, 1960
Capitol Hill
Press Room of the Speaker of the House

The Speaker's press room was not nearly as grand as the President's. There was a gaggle of political correspondents from the major stations and papers. They excitedly babbled to each other over the news. Senate Democrats were breaking party lines and Congress was voting on a historic and landmark voting rights bill. This was a huge story, and if this bill became law, it would be a defining political moment. The Speaker glared at the assembled press from behind a curtain. Oh how he loathed them all.

Resent built as he looked at each excited face. He took note of which of his regulars were replaced and which outlets decided to come out in force for this. The old man pulled away from the curtain, disgust having reached critical mass. Never before had he received this much attention, and he decided in this moment that if he could spit on each and everyone of these vultures he would.

This would be the first truly national election, a far cry from the whistle stop tours President Truman undertook. Wistfully the Speaker drifted back to those years for a moment. What a novelty, the President visiting each competitive state and campaigning on the issues with every piece of media available. One of his aides came up to the podium and loudly called for the press corp to come to order. The screech of feedback brought the Speaker back to reality. This new reality. As his aide finished up setting the stage and calling the press to attention, he decided that he would actively despise this new era of politics, and damned himself for his own vote and say in creating it. Nevertheless, he gathered himself and approached the podium.

"Good morning." he began rather flatly, stepping out into the light without much aplomb, "What a wonderful way to start a new year." the Speaker's words sucking every particle of moisture from the air, "So many new faces, and so many familiar ones." he mock surveyed the room, "I only wish I could get this many of you together to discuss the dollar!" his words intoned a joke, or perhaps humor, no one laughed, "Right." the old man sighed, beginning again, "Everyone I have a few short words to say for my own New Year's Address, and then we'll get right to business." he cleared his throat and shuffled slightly.

"America it is the dawn of a new decade. A decade which threatens to already prove to be rife with challenges and adversity. For the first time a man-made object was deployed into outer space. For the first time we stand at the precipice of total destruction of all mankind. America, for the first time in many decades, is entering into the latter half of this decade firmly surrounded by friends and opposed by enemies. The President who has guided us through these troubling times is keeping to the tradition of Washington and relinquishing power to our democratic system. I hope each and every American and staunch supporter of the basic ideals of democratic process sees how important that is in the fight against the totalitarian, personalistic, dictatorships in Europe." The Speaker paused here, letting the gravity of his words and the weight of the American Principles sink into his speech, "But that time is coming to a close, we will no longer have a war time President." He began again, changing tracks effortlessly.

"We have now entered into a new era of warfare. One of competing influence and control over strategic regions of the world. One which we fight fascism and their racial hierarchies, with our values of liberty, equality, and mutual respect. As France once gifted us the statue now proudly in our Bay, we must remember those words inscribed. He stopped for dramatic effect before continuing, "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free." he again let this sit for a moment, before continuing, "America we are the Shining Beacon on the Hill for Liberty and Justice in this world. We are united in fighting for France, our earliest ally, just as we are united in fighting for all of mankind. We are the land of prosperity, of peace, and of progress. We shall never be overcome by the forces of evil in this world. Nor shall we ever be taken in by demagoguery and racism."

"America, we will no longer have a wartime President. The time for a new generation to take hold of the reigns; has come. The Democratic Party is those capable hands. In the dawn of this new decade we will fight for the rights of every man, woman, and child. We will fight for the poor, for the downtrodden, for the rural, and the elderly. Yes we will fight for White and Black, for Hispanic and Asian, for new and old. The Democratic Party stands at the front of the push for progress in our society. We will continue our fight, continue the legacy of President Truman, and continue to pursue desegregation of our schools and armed services. We will continue our fight for the elderly and infirm. For the right of a fair day's pay for a fair day's work. For the right of the farmer to sell his goods at a profit, and for the right of the starving child. We will seek out friendship in like minded countries around the world, and we will destroy the enemies of freedom wherever they hide."

As the Speaker finished. A small applause broke out in the room. He frowned as he saw it was mostly his regulars. Every other reporter looked rather perplexed.

"Now, Happy New Year." He said just audible over the slightly louder than polite clapping.

"Now," the Speaker began again, "before we move on to questions. I'd like to say one thing about this coming session of Congress. The big story is that the Senate is likely to pass a Voting Rights Bill." the old man gazed around the room, gauging responses, "I'm here to tell the American people upfront that we will have a voting rights bill this year." this announcement immediately set off excited discussions among the press, "Now, hold on," the Speaker raised his arms and his voice to corral the media, "As the Senate comes to a likely vote, I fully intend to send our own bill to the floor and we will have made history. The Democrats and Republicans have come together in another act of bipartisanship to make it clear. Enfranchisement for All." the Speaker stressed 'all' more than he maybe should have, "There is no man or woman in this great nation that will be denied the right to vote. Not skin, nor sex, nor service shall prevent all Americans from enjoying equal rights. America is united in the fight for equality."

"That is why," the Speaker started again, "I am calling for the House and Senate to immediately move resolutions for a vote on the creation of bipartisan Select Committees to investigate and report on the current state of enfranchisement for all men and women, and to study and report the effects of poverty in America." the old man finished triumphantly.

"Now that that's out of they way," the Speaker said somewhat smugly, "I'm willing to take some questions from the press."

by **Cybernetic Socialist Republics** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 7:34 am

A single striking advertisement is deployed around the country, primiarly in places where the Wallace Disney Campaign has attempted to make headway.

by **Azekopolaltion** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 9:40 am

Representative Tommy Byrne [D|NY-7]
Capitol Hill - Washington, D.C.
January 8th, 1960

It had been an almost impromptu decision—admittedly a bit brash, without the underlying infrastructure necessary to mount such a huge endeavor. He'd made a few hires, made a few of the necessary inquiries. But, as had been the case with most political decisions of Tommy's, organization hadn't been the impetus; he was running on pure idealism.

Someone had to do it. He'd been revolted by the way the his party's presidential nominee selection process had been trending—a contest between ardent Southern segregationist William Dupout Sparks on one side, and far-left, loony loudmouth Long on the other. Where was the candidate for the young, polished liberal—the kind of candidate that Tommy believed represented America's future? He had enquired about how the field would shape up, and couldn't see a candidate that represented that mold. Even if it was just to get a little bit of exposure, a little bit of the ball rolling on moving the Democratic establishment into a more liberal direction, it had to be him.

He had to run for president.

Tommy knew it was rare for House members to mount such a demanding national campaign. He had the wealth and connections to make waves in New York, but just about nowhere else. He would have to do most of his campaigning from the brand-new debate stages, while staying mostly in Washington to continue legislating. Maybe a few speeches on the road, but he had nowhere near the level of resources to mount a serious nationwide barnstorm. What he did have was youth, intelligence, and a fresh face for the country. If he could get some exposure in the papers and on the television set, maybe he could at least enter the national consciousness.

He'd called a small press conference outside the steps of the Capitol. A couple of reporters and their cameras were gathered there, along with his new campaign staffers—a ragtag band of five young men and two young women. He stepped up to the podium to deliver his prepared remarks in his typically articulate, lawyerly fashion.

My fellow Americans,

The American people in particular, but also the universal, international conscience, have been calling out for young men and women to undertake the huge mission of standing before this body to demand justice. Technical and factual reasons, such as the absence of a specific definition in our domestic law that could accurately describe the type of crime that is on trial in the public sphere today, have not deterred me from considering the few reported cases that certainly do not cover the bloodcurdling number of West African civilian victims of what we could describe as the greatest war crime committed in our country's young history.

Violence ruled throughout our nation's foreign policy establishment, when a small group of elderly men, in support of a murderous colonial regime, decided to take forceful military action with our brave Armed Forces, paying no heed to the people's will—neither to the will of the people of Africa, nor to the will of our own people at home.

And what was the current administration's response to the backlash against their killer campaign? To describe it, my friends, I can do with three words. Ferocious, ignorant, and cowardly. The African guerrillas have kidnapped, tortured and killed. What did our government do to fight them? Torture and kill, in an infinitely larger scale, through an asymmetric warfare of which the brunt has been borne by the civilians of West Africa. And, from then onwards, much more serious consequences emerged.

How many of the victims of this war are truly guilty of guerrilla activities? How many are innocent? We will never know the exact number, and that's not the victims' fault.

This process of reading about the war in the papers and in Congressional hearings has meant, for those of us who have had the painful privilege of knowing it deeply, a sort of descent into dark areas of the human soul, where misery, abjection and horror reach depths which are hard to imagine in advance, and impossible to understand afterwards. Dante, in “The Divine Comedy”, saved the seventh circle of hell for the violent ones: for all those who hurt others through the use of force. And in that same hell, he submerged, in a river of boiling and nauseating blood, a specific type of doomed people the poet described as follows: “These are the tyrants who dealt in bloodshed and pillaging. Here they lament their pitiless mischiefs”.

For all this, my fellow Americans, this presidential election is important and necessary not only for own beloved country, but for the African peoples that have been offended by our government and the French government's atrocious crimes. Their very atrocity turns the mere hypothesis of impunity into a monstrous one. Unless the moral sense of the American politician has descended to tribal levels, nobody can allow that mass bombing, mass shooting, and ultimately, state-sanctioned murder become 'political incidents' or 'collateral damage' in combat.

I have been a soldier in war, a soldier in the law, and now a soldier for political reform. I have had the utmost respect for President Jackson, serving under his tactical and, more importantly, his moral leadership, during the Pacific War. I even cast my vote for him—twice. I know what it means to fight a war of ideals. The African Campaign is no such war.

It is high time that the America people recover their government and the control of its institutions from the warmongers, and I take the responsibility of stating on their behalf that sadism is neither a political ideology nor a war strategy, it is a moral perversion.

My friends, this is why today, I am announcing my intention to seek the office of President of the United States: to end this war, to regain our moral soul, and to restore our faith in the good intentions of our public servants. To end the killing in Africa is, in no uncertain terms, the defining issue of our time—not to save money, nor to triangulate politically, but to save ourselves in the eyes of God Himself. I humbly ask for your strength and your support as I take on this mission against the wartime establishment in this capital.

I will now take any questions you might have.

by **Sao Nova Europa** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 10:02 am

Turkducken wrote:"Now that that's out of they way," the Speaker said somewhat smugly, "I'm willing to take some questions from the press."

"Mr. Speaker, what is your response to the controversial comments made by Senator Long - including a threat to hang sitting Senators?"

by **Sao Nova Europa** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 11:24 am

A PUBLIC AFFAIRS SHOW
with MICHAEL JACKSON

INTERVIEW WITH SENATOR LONG

Michael Jackson: "Today, at Firing Line, we welcome the controversial Senator from Louisiana and presidential candidate James Long. Welcome, Senator."

Long: “Hello Michael, I gotta say, I wasn’t expectin’ to get on your show. But, despite our differences, you’ve done some great work for the American people, tellin’ them the cold, hard facts about politics. Not to say I agree with all ya do. But the truth is important to me, and to the people as a whole.”

Jackson: "Mr. Long, can you explain your qualifications for the presidency? Why should the American people trust you and do you have what it takes to handle the challenges of the presidency?"

Long: “Well, Michael. Look no further than Louisiana! Am I not the man who created healthcare for the common man? Am I not the man who cleaned up the deficit? Am I not the man who expanded the roads, infrastructure and schools? I am the one for the job. What I did for Louisiana, I will do for this nation.”

Jackson: "As Governor, you were accused of corruption and authoritarian behavior. How do you respond to those allegations?"

Long: “Look, Michael, you know damn well I support democracy. We’re the greatest nation on Earth! But you know those damn’d folks like Joyner, or Sparks? They ain’t supportin’ it. They want to suppress those black folks, down in Brooklyn. And frankly, I ain’t gonna take it. But I’m gonna answer your question head on. I ain’t corrupt, and I ain’t a fascist like those goose-steppers Joyner and Hitler. In conclusion, I ain’t a dictator. The folks, the boys at the fork of the creek? I helped them. And yes, it looks like a dictatorship, but it ain’t. It’s a democracy where I’ve truly helped those working folks, and they’ve voted for me. And they’re happy with what they got! Schools, healthcare, votes, everythin’! And frankly, I never will be a dictator. Because that isn’t what a true American is. That’s what the likes of Sparks and Joyner are, and I ain’t them.”

Jackson: "You appointed your own mother as Governor, and she in turn appointed you as Senator. Is this not an example of nepotism and corruption antithetical to good governance and meritocracy?"

Long: “Hell, I did. But that was because she was hella qualified. She then proved it when she got re-elected. She proved that damn well when she got re-elected. But unfortunately, she ain’t with us anymore. She… I’m sorry…”

Long takes a moment

“She proved to us all. Women can run countries dammit! Why can’t people accept that? She’s an example to us all. You saw her reforms! She raised the pension, the quality of life. She wasn’t appointed because she was my ma, she was appointed because she was a good damn governor. And I became senator ‘cuz I was the best option, and I got re-elected too. And she likely lost years of her life, just so she could help those folks in the street. I miss her every day.”

Jackson: "Regardless of her actions as Governor, you do have to admit that appointing family members in such a way is shady at best."

Long: “You’re right. But she proved her competence time and time again. You know she used to manage my father’s campaign, right? And Huey, my papa, he won. And she was responsible for it. She helped him run the state, unofficially of course, recommendin’ all kindsa things. Ya know LSU? That was her idea. Those farm improvements? Her idea. Those rights for those black folks? Her idea too. My point is, my mama, she was the best lady for the job, and she showed it. And I hate the fact people keep bringin’ it up to try and prove some kinda non-existent corruption, just to bring me down.”

Jackson: "Before we discuss specific policy issues, I want Senator to explain shortly to our viewers what your campaign platform is."

Long: “Sure. My platform is one which I admit I’ve shifted. Back in Louisiana, my ideas worked, even if some of my more radical ones can’t be implement’d nationally. I know I can’t do some of the things I want. Lemme tell ya, I’m gonna get votin’ rights for all, includin’ those silenced 18 year olds, I’m gonna set up a federal health insurance company, I’m gonna set up a department of education, and I’m gonna resurrect the Works Progress Administration. Let me make this clear; I don’t support handouts. That’s why the WPA is part of my platform. The WPA helps people go to work, get paid, and help the nation, when they can’t find work elsewhere. And they’re gonna be building roads, hospitals, schools for all those poor kids, farmin’ the land for food for those children. And I’m gonna give every man a job, every man a little cash to help him out. I’m for the workin’ man, not the likes of Disney. And every man, black or white, or even Asian. Every man a king!”

Jackson: "In your proposed bill in the Senate, you proposed handing over $10000 a year to households. This would cost more than 100% of our national GDP, and would probably bankrupt our country. How do you respond to this criticism?"

Long: “Of course, it was more an idealistic approach than anything else. I just wanted those Washington bigwigs to know. I knew the bill weren’t passin’, but I wanted my message across. And you saw, I withdrew my bill once my point was put across. I then promptly helped in passin’ the GVR Act. But much of that bill was serious. I truly do want a Department of Education. I truly do want a Federal Health Insurance company. No American should die because they can’t afford treatment. And in my administration, they won’t.”

Jackson: "You admit to proposing a bill you knew it would not work in practice just to score some political points? The American people want their legislators to focus on solving their problems, not engaging in publicity stunts. As President, how can they trust you to be a hundred percent serious?"

Long: “Look. I used to get things done by saying please and thank you. But you know that’s not how politics works. And I was solvin’ problems. I proved to the American people, that those who wanted to see no more die of illness, no more illiteracy, no more pain and death, they had a voice. And that voice is called James Long. And as president, you can betcha, there ain’t gonna be a single unserious moment in my life. When I was governor, you saw it for yourself what I achieved, free healthcare, a resolution to the deficit, and putting thousands to work buildin’ schools and hospitals. And as President, that’s what the American people want, and that’s what they’ll get.”

Jackson: "Senator, you have still not responded to the underlying criticism. You proposed a bill that included economic proposals that had no basis in reality - you yourself admitted so - simply to 'send a message'. My question is twofold; can the American people trust someone who pulls off such stunts and can they trust someone who proposed such an outlandish economic scheme - even if he knew it wasn't going to pass - to manage the economy?"

Long: “You say they had no basis in reality. But you see, if we ignore the elephant in the room of the Household Estate, which if you note, ain’t in my actual campaign, then almost everything there is entirely rational and sane. You tell me whether you don’t wanna Federal Health Insurance company? You tell me you don’t want more schools and hospitals. And I merely wanted it to go to debate, before pullin’ it. And you can see, my governance of Louisiana showed just how good I can run an economy. I took care of the deficit, and the people still got the programs they voted for, and I got re-elected with over 70% of the vote. If that isn’t a mandate from the people, I don’t know what is. I proposed a similar slate of measures to Louisiana, and even though some of it don’t work everywhere, some of it does. And I betcha right now, as Federal Health Insurance company is fully possible, and plausible.”

Jackson: "Senator, I was talking about your proposal regarding household estates. And yes, as you yourself admitted, that part had no basis in reality. In that same discussion, you threatened the physical safety of fellow Senators and hinted that a mob could invade Congress. Is that the type of behavior the American people can expect from you? Is that type of behavior befitting a Senator? Have our politics reached such a low point that death threats against those who disagree with us are normalized?"

Long: “Jackson, you and I both know, I was speakin’ hypothetically. I was makin’ clear just how much the American people want these programs. You saw in ‘48. People like these programs, people want them. And frankly, I ain’t the dangerous one here. You seen the likes of Sparks, or Governor Fletcher. They’re the real dangerous ones. They’re the ones who watch as those black fellas get lynched in their states and stand by. And if anyone really took those as literal, well I apologise. But I am not the true danger to peoples’ lives. Those radicals are. I’m not the radical, I’m the voice of those oppressed masses. I’m the one fightin’ like ol’ Teddy Roosevelt, fightin’ against the likes of Disney, fightin’ the likes of Sparks. And you seen the things those folks, Sparks and his lot say and do? I’m not the one makin’ actual death threats. They are, and considering Sparks and Joyner, I bet they’d follow through.”

Jackson: "Sir, you said, and I quote, 'But mark my words, if we don’t pass this, now or later, a mob is coming here in six months to hang most of you other ninety-nine of you damned scoundrels, and I'm undecided whether to stick here with you or go out and lead them'. That is a death threat. A direct one. You were not speaking hypothetically. You were threatening the democratically-elected legislators of Congress with violent insurrection. You could at least have apologized for your words but, instead, you try to brush them off. Sir, how can you lead this country when you show such disregard for democratic norms and the rule of law? As President, would you threaten to hang those who disagree with you? Please answer this question without diverting the discussion to talk about other politicians."

Long: “As I say, it was completely ironically. I’d never lay a hand on those fellas and lasses in the Senate. But considering what Sparks has been threatening to do, and even recommending, on your very own show, he would. And you know what? If anyone seriously took it literally, then I apologise, and I retract my statement. I admit I could’ve said what I was tryin’ to say more tactfully, but I never intended for anyone to take it literally. You saw me as governor. I defended democracy, and I defended the rule of law. I simply wanted to demonstrate to the American workin’ man, Senator Long hears you, and Senator Long wants to lead you. And I am the true voice of those workin’ men and women, all over the nation.”

Jackson: "You proposed a bill with a proposal that would have cost 100% of the national GDP, and then retracted it by stating you were not serious about this proposal. You threatened to hang sitting Senators, and now you claim you were being ironic. How can the American people trust a legislator who has more than once pulled off such stunts and has admitted to not being serious to lead the country at a time of war? Do you have a good answer to this argument?"

Long: “I’ve said it time and time again, I am a serious candidate. I proved myself a serious governor, and I will prove myself a serious president. If you look at the rest of the bill, exceptin’ the estate, you can see, most of it is truly sane and rational. And I intend to follow through with a Federal Healthcare Insurance company, and a Department of Education, and a Public Works Administration. Now, you ask me about the war, I would bring the American troops home. It’s time for ‘em to come back to America, for the thousands of young men to come back, and live their lives as brothers, and fathers, and sons, properly. Now, I wouldn’t just let Africa fall, of course. I would keep sendin’ aid, but frankly, we’d never need to cut down on spendin’ if it weren’t for the President’s war and bloodlust. But it’s time for America to return. And it’s time that the young men come back. I am tired, sick and tired, of going to funerals of those boys comin’ back in flags. And they won’t be under a Long administration.”

Jackson: "You say you are a serious candidate, and yet you joke about hanging sitting Senators..." Jackson paused for a moment. "You've also proposed giving every man a job. How, exactly, will this work out? Will you be hiring people to dig trenches with their hands? Will you be employing people to do menial, unproductive, and unnecessary jobs simply to artificially lower unemployment while at the same time burdening with their wages the taxpayers? How will that affect the federal budget?"

Long: “I thought I’d made it clear what those young men were gonna do. I simply took two problems, and worked out the solution! We lack infrastructure, and we have unemployment. And handouts ain’t the answer. We give people skills, a good wage, and a job, buildin’ houses, schools, hospitals, roads and bridges. And all of this would be possible if it weren’t for President Jackson’s war. I did it in Louisiana, and I’ll do it as president. We can win the war against poverty, if we weren’t fightin’ the war in Africa! And under my administration, we will. Yes we can, and yes we will.”

Jackson: "Sir, you did not reply to my question. Putting people to work in infrastructure to reduce unemployment rates is perhaps feasible; giving every unemployed person an infrastructure job is both costly and inefficient. Costly because it means employing more people than are necessary for the work they are being tasked with, and inefficient because not everyone is suited to this type of job. You've also not stated how the federal budget would be affected by this proposal nor addressed the concern that taxpayers would be burdened with increased taxation to fund this program. Please answer, sir."

Long: “Of course! I believe you’ve misunderstood me. Of course zero unemployment is virtually impossible, considering some people simply cannot work. And rest assured, a Long administration would take care of them too. But we will put every unemployed fit man to work, at least those who aren’t of pension age, whether through infrastructure or federal job-finding programs. And we won’t let this lot of men go to waste. Remember, we ain’t just givin’ ‘em a job. We’re givin’ ‘em an education, we’re givin’ ‘em experience. It isn’t gonna be an issue for the budget. We’re gonna get more money in, as more people get good high paying jobs, and we end Jackson’s horrible, bloodthirsty war. And the WPA is gonna keep goin’ till everyone can rely on themselves. Then, finally, the WPA can be retired. And my job will be accomplished. But I will not rest till America truly achieves its potential.”

Jackson: "Can you elaborate on this federal job-finding program? So, not everyone will be put to work on infrastructure? Senator, I would also like for you to elaborate on the costs of these programs. Will you be raising taxes to fund them or going into deficit? Because money does not magically grow on trees."

Long: “Of course I can answer that! The federal job findin’ program’s best for those with a degree, or some work experience, and help fill those jobs for teachers, and doctors, and even private industry. We’re gonna put millions to work, and we’re gonna reap the benefits in tax money from those businesses and those workers. And I’m gonna make sure that China, Japan and Canada know, they aren’t just takin’ the trade advantage. I ain’t suggesting we start a trade war with them, but some tariffs and negotiation seem in order. And combined with the endin’ of the Republicans’ war, more money in the coffers to help us achieve the American dream. Every man a king, but no-one wears a crown!”

Jackson: "Simply raising tariffs and ending the war will not produce enough revenue to fund so extensive and far-reaching social programs. Also, even if your proposals truly in the long term benefit America and bring increased revenue, in the short term the cost would be enormous. Again, I would like to ask you, do you plan on raising taxes or going into a deficit?"

Long: “I plan on doing both, if necessary. I like to go with what I call “Pay as You Go”. We’ve done it in Louisiana, and hell, it worked excellently there. But let me be clear, the tax hikes will only be on the rich and those in the upper classes, and the deficit will be resolved as swiftly as it was in Louisiana. Rest assured, I will never let the economy collapse. But of course, I also intend on cappin’ the wealths of the likes of Disney and Gary. No longer will 5 percent of the people own 125 times what the middle class does, and no longer will the little man who does all the work, own barely enough to pay off his debts. Together, everyone can live the American dream. I’m not saying there will be no rich man, but there will be no man rich enough to own a state! And those rich men will have earned it. I’m not gonna play politics with this, I care about America, not my career. I’ll do what’s necessary to help in the long term, even if it hurts me in the short term.”

Jackson: "Sir, the top marginal tax rate is already standing at 91%. How much do you intend to raise it? Frankly, basic mathematics means that raising taxes on simply the top income brackets will not be enough to cover the cost of your programs. Your caps on wealth are also unlikely to work as intended since, firstly, no American has anywhere near $2.5 billion in individual wealth, and secondly, the richer Americans earn their wealth not through labor but through increasing valuations of owned assets - and the federal government does not impose a tax on asset value. How do you respond to this criticism?"

Long: “Of course! And honestly, I’d push the cap even further down if, and when I can. But you see, you are entirely correct. The federal government does not impose a tax on asset value. And that is what’s gonna change under my administration. We’re gonna cut down on those owning property for the sake of it. I intend on taxing assets for the top 2%, and I intend on taxing stocks more. And you betcha I’m gonna tax those unused properties more. We have to get America workin’, and those lazy billionaires and those elites ain’t doin’ it. And to help the workers further, we’re gonna help unions, and I’m gonna repeal Taft-Hartley. FDR showed us all, unions help the economy, and they help the folks. And I’m gonna stand up for the workin’ man, and the unions.”

Jackson: "Then why did you not include those measures on your bill or - indeed - mention them until you heard of this criticism? Had you not thought about it earlier? What does this say about your capacity to be President?"

Long: “As I said, that bill was just to get out there what I intended on doing. And I would’ve told the people about how I’d do it. Again, look at Louisiana! I ran that state more successfully than almost every other governor! I am fit to be president. And I note you have not criticised my actual plan? Perhaps there is nothing to criticise? Or do you truly also not support Americans being able to not die, because of the greed of those damn medical companies?”

Jackson: "My personal views are irrelevant here - you can read about my personal opinions at the National Review. I am trying to have an honest, objective discussion with your, sir. But we need to move on from the economy. You are from the South, and yet you support civil rights. My questions are, firstly, how far do you believe the federal government should intervene in support of civil rights and, secondly, how will you address the fears and concerns of the white Southerners?"

Long: “You know the blacks? Treat them the same as anyone else, give ‘em. An opportunity to make a living and to get an education. They gotta have a home, a job, and a decent education for their children. And for those southerners who don’t wanna vote for me because I believe that people are people, and they all gotta have a vote, and a say. And if you don’t wanna vote for me for that? Well, you ain’t worth my time. If the Louisianans can accept it, that lot can too. My reforms in Louisiana helped all the poor men, regardless of race. Does their blood not run red too? Do they not have families? And frankly, I’m fed up of sayin’ otherwise. And we’re gonna help ‘em advance after the stain of segregation. Don’t get me wrong, I ain’t splittin’ communities, I ain’t gonna force anyone to move houses, move schools. But folks like Sparks? They better understand that the constitution says all men are created equal.”

Jackson: "So you would oppose more radical ideals, like forced integration of schools and neighborhoods?"

Long: “Yes and no. I would not be opposed to things like in-district busing, but these folks, they’ve become friends, they have neighbours, they don’t wanna leave. But I’m gonna improve the schools, not just for the white folk, but for all, and if people are trying to stop black folk livin’ their lives, and moving where they wan’t, they better roll out of the way. It’s time for the nation to march forward and let blacks advance in society after the stain of segregation. But of course, I’d need to see any proposals before I make a decision.”

Jackson: "In the past few years we've seen a hike in violent riots, protests, crime, and a drug epidemic. How do you plan on restoring law and order in this nation?"

Long: “Simple. We’re gonna improve education, and we’re gonna get those kids off the street. When everyone has a job, and an education, they don’t need to deal with those drugs. But for the dealers and suppliers? I promise them nothing but fury. At the same time, we need to address the underlyin’ problems. The solution ain’t arrestin’ 10 year olds. You don’t just lower crime, you keep it low!”

Jackson: "Let us move on to the field of foreign policy. You are opposed to the war in Africa. Can you explain why?"

Long: “Simple. I’m sick and tired of attending funeral after funeral in Louisiana, in DC, in New York, in California. I’m sick and tired of seeing good men, sons, husbands, fathers, come home wrapped in flags, and I’m sick and tired of seein’ mothers crying, whilst cradling a flag in their arms. No longer shall American boys go and die in Africa, just to support the President’s wish for a legacy. And I just want American boys to come home, back to their friends and families. Surely even you can’t disagree with that?”

Jackson: "Again, my personal views are irrelevant here. Senator, you are the one being interviewed. How do you respond to the criticism that leaving now would lead to the collapse of West Africa into anarchy and violence, potentially allowing Italy and Germany to absorb it into their colonial empires? And how do you respond to the criticism that leaving Africa would deprive America of the ability to maintain military assets - including nukes - south of Nazi-occupied Europe?"

Long: “You know I’m never gonna let us roll over to those nazis. But sending our kids to die isn’t the answer. My fried, Oscar Allman, his son is almost that age. And his friends? They went off to war. And one of them came back in a flag. And a full grown man, came cryin’ to me, beggin’ me to tell him it was just a nightmare. But we aren’t gonna let ‘em have Africa. We’re gonna keep sendin’ aid, and we’re gonna keep kneecappin’ Germany. But we can’t really call ourselves the country for democracy when we keep proppin’ up a dictator there now, can we? De Gaulle better begin thinkin’ of enactin’ some reforms.”

Jackson: "How will you manage this transition - from military to economic aid? Suddenly pulling out our troops will certainly lead to a collapse of Free France. Do you have a timetable? Do you believe in a gradual removal of troops? Or you will bring back all troops at once, consequences be damned?"

Long: “I don’t have all the information right now. But I have an idea on how we’re gonna do it, and you betcha Free France ain’t collapsin’ on my watch. We’re gonna keep sendin’ tanks and planes, just not with American men in them. And we’re gonna pull our forces back, sensibly. We’re gonna pull them back to the coast, before we finally bring our boys home. It’s time for some damn compassion.”

Jackson: "Can you elaborate on your plan? What do you mean when you say that tanks and planes won't be manned by Americans?"

Long: “We’re gonna send them over, planes, guns and tanks, all made by those American workers, the likes that Disney and Sparks want to oppress, and the French can take ‘em, but with their own ships. I am sick of seeing our men dyin’. No more American troops on French soil, and no more American lives lost, fightin’ that damn Republican war. We won’t yield to the nazis, but the French gotta reform too. I’d be having a talk with De Gaulle about his dictatorial actions! Can we reasonably say we’re the face of democracy when we don’t so much as ask ‘em to be democratic? But we can’t just let ‘em fascists win either. I’m sure everyone can agree on that. And for those folks at home, the boys at the fork of the creek, I say to you, no more fathers, and brothers, friends and sons will die in this war; Jackson’s war, under James Long.”

Jackson: "What would a Long administration's foreign policy in Asia look like? There are concerns over Chinese aggression and their increasingly closer ties to Germany. Do you support engaging with India and bolstering the defenses of Thailand, Korea, Japan, and the Philippines to safeguard American interests in the region? Or are you in favor of reapproaching China?"

Long: “Look, Chiang Kai-Shek, I hate his guts. He’s just the type of cronyist that the likes of Disney are. But we can’t just let Germany have a new ally. I’d support us wieldin’ our money to make China change for the better. But we gotta speak with ‘em. Idiots like Sparks are the lot who are gonna destroy our nation on the world stage. However we’re gonna make ties with the Canadians, the Mexicans, the Japanese, the Koreans, the Filipinos and the Indians, just as much as the Chinese. They gotta understand, China needs us, not the other way round. My administration would take a hard line on those civil rights abuses, and the aggression of China. We’ve gotta be a beacon of democracy, of liberty, and this ain’t it. We gotta help those people, those folks. You seen what they’re doing to ethnic minorities? We can’t just standby. We gotta do somethin’. And a Long administration would push for the democratisation of China, till they become someone we can talk to as equals. And they better understand, we’re the ally they wanna have, not those nazis. They’re gonna kill all of the Chinese if they get their way, and we ain’t lettin’ that happen either. But when I get into office, I wanna begin talking, to Chiang, and to Nehru.”

Jackson: "We are running out of time. Instead of another question, you can address our viewers directly. Please be short and concise though."

Long: “Thank you.”

Long take a moment to look at the camera

“For the workin’ folks at home, I wanna make clear. James Long is for you, the oppressed masses, run over by those Wall Street cronies. I ain’t gonna kowtow to Goldman Sachs, or the likes of Disney, we’re gonna have free healthcare, every man a job, and a good education. For those who want advances in farmin’ made affordable for the common man in Iowa, rather than just those big commercial farms. James Long hears ya. And that’s why James Long is gonna be your next president! And for those folks descended from the freedmen of the South, I apologise on behalf of my Southern brothers. I’m for the poor man, black and white. They all gotta have a home, a job and a decent education for their children. Every man a king!”

Jackson: "And with that, we conclude tonight's show. Have a good night."

by **The Rio Grande River Basin** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 1:06 pm

Senator Gary considers his options. Sure he wanted the presidency, but surely the Senate Majority Leader had more power than the VP? Anyhow, he sure as hell didn’t want Disney to win…

Governor Nelson,

Whilst you are correct in that the battle is not over, I thank you for your kind words, and ask you to send my sincerest good wishes for your wife.

And indeed, you are correct, I have long been an admirer of Teddy Roosevelt. The Republican Party must remain the party of Lincoln; not the party of Taft. And this bill is the first step forward for a great leap of progress for the nation. Whilst saying this, I’d like to offer you my full support, and expect my backing and campaigning when possible. You have my endorsement, and I would be willing to give that endorsement on national TV, whenever you wish.

We must stop the likes of Disney, the forces trying to wrestle the party out of the hands of progress. It is true, the establishment indeed tried to hinder him. But you can bet that my establishment will not. Expect full backing for your policies from me, and I will attempt to have my editors support your policies. And you are indeed one of my most valued colleagues.

We must continue the vision of those great men, the likes of LaFollete and Roosevelt, and Hiram Johnson.

I recommend we begin to play up our visionary action on civil rights, to seize the initiative from the Democrats. We must hope the Democrats do not try and undercut us here, but hopefully, we can drive a wedge through the right and left of the party. In fact, I will soon be meeting with my colleague, Senator Long, on the left of the Democratic Party, in an attempt to have him speak out directly against Senator Sparks and his ilk more firmly. We can assist him in his unintended mission of tearing the party apart.

You indeed inferred correctly, I was intending on running for president, but you are correct, your campaign is further underway, and I would not like to risk splitting the vote and handing the nomination to the likes of Disney. We must not become the reactionaries.

Expect me to campaign vigorously for you in California, and for the Express, and the Times, as well as the cacophony of other news sources I can purchase, to support you.

However, in the name of progress, I will have to humbly refuse your kind offer of the Vice-Presidency. Instead, I shall be supporting and watching on from the Senate, as Republican Senate Leader. Instead, I recommend you choose another Republican, perhaps in another geographically important area.

Your colleague,

Senator Gary.

by **The Rio Grande River Basin** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 1:17 pm

Des Moines, Iowa

The large stage glowed with lights, as Senator Long waltzed onto stage, as an announcer excitedly screamed praises. Father Charles Corelin was quite a vigorous speaker, and had proved his worth to the Long family time and time again.

“…AND THAT IS WHY THOSE CORPORATIST FOOLS LIKE DISNEY HAVE NO PLACE IN THE AMERICA! LAND OF BRAVE AND FREE!”

He stepped up to the platform.

“AND NOW, THE NEXT PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES! JAAAAMES GRAANT LOOOONG!”

Long stood up, and took the microphone.

“Father Corelin is complet’ly correct! We ain’t gonna roll over to the likes of Disney! Or the likes of Goldman Sachs! I’m for the farmer, the workin’ man! Every man a king! And that is why I will be proposin’ an Agricultural Advancement Administration, to fund all the new developments of technology in those universities! In Louisiana State University, we’re makin’ engines for ya tractors, and new fertiliser for your crops! And it’s god’s land, not the land of those agriculture companies, and we’re gonna free you from those corporate shackles! It’s time for the farmers here to take god’s gift, the gift of land and the hands to grow sustenance! Vote for me, James Long, for your rights, your farms, and your liberty!”

The crowd cheered wildly.

Long stepped away from the stage, as lines of surrogates and allies, the Governor of Louisiana, the Junior Senator, the representatives, all lined up for a turn. He headed towards a smaller room, filled with reporters.

“Now you lot of pressmen, I’ll take a few questions.”

by **Sao Nova Europa** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 1:21 pm

The Soul of the Republican Party
Michael Jackson

America is a nation uniquely founded not on ethnic or religious grounds, but on the idea of human liberty. The Declaration of Independence states that all men are created equal and are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This distinguishes America from all other nations. Yet, in the past decades, we've seen a creeping expansion of the powers of the federal government under both Democratic and Republican administrations. It is of the highest importance that the Republican Party returns back to its conservative roots and fights back against those who have perverted our Constitution, sacred institutions, and traditions.

The New Deal has been an attack on American liberties. We've seen an expansion of government programs to an extent unprecedented in our history. We've been seeing an attack against the Christian faith and traditional moral values, cheered on by liberals. This is not pursued by accident. Liberalism is piecemeal socialism, and socialism always attacks three institutions: religion, family, and property. Religion, because it offers a rival authority to the State; family, because it means a rival loyalty to the State; property, because it means independence from the State. Liberal politicians in DC, in the guise of progress, attack religion and tradition. They attack the nuclear family and push women to abandon raising of their children. In the guise of taking care of the poorest, they attack private property. The end goal is socialism. Make no mistake.

The attacks of those liberals against 'big corporations' are simply an excuse, to justify their power-grabbing. Here we are, in the century that has seen Lenin, Stalin, Mussolini, and Hitler, and we're still being warned against the 'robber barons' of the 19th century. I don't know that Jay Gould or John D. Rockefeller ever killed anyone; the state though has killed countless people, and yet we're always supposed to remain on guard against these 'greedy villains' of yesteryear. And it is that narrative that is used by liberals to justify their piecemeal socialism.

We've seen the effects of socialism in Europe. Make no mistake, National Socialism has nothing to do with conservative or Christian values - as some liberals like to argue. National Socialism tends towards a pagan Caesarism, towards a new state that knows no limits of a legal or moral order - the same way liberals want to see an expansion of state authority without any boundaries. One of the key tenets of National Socialism is the idea that the state should have control over all aspects of society, including the economy. This is a fundamental principle of socialism, which holds that the means of production should be owned and controlled by the state - and this is the end goal of American liberalism as well.

The Christian view of society is one in which individuals are valued for their inherent dignity and worth as creations of God. Collectivists, on the other hand, view individuals only through the frame of a collective. This is a reason we've seen liberals advocate for radical measures such as affirmative action that would destroy meritocracy - and this a view shared by National Socialism, which also treats people as members of their group instead of individuals.

It is important that the Republican Party fights back against this creeping expansion of government tyranny. We need a candidate who will speak up against the expansion of state powers, against the perversion of our Constitution, against the erosion of our values. We need a candidate to address the problem of atheism, degeneracy, and debauchery that is being promoted to our youth. Conservatives should be adamant about the need for the reappearance of Christianity in the public square. We need a candidate who will speak about the need to reduce the size and scope of government. Liberty and individualism must prevail, not collectivism and tyranny. For even a democratic government can be tyrannical, since it is the extent, not the source, of government power that impinges on freedom. That's why government must be limited.

It is our hope that the nominee of the Republican Party will espouse those important values - for America must remain the Land of the Free.

by **Arvenia** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 2:07 pm

The Rio Grande River Basin wrote:Des Moines, Iowa

The large stage glowed with lights, as Senator Long waltzed onto stage, as an announcer excitedly screamed praises. Father Charles Corelin was quite a vigorous speaker, and had proved his worth to the Long family time and time again.

“…AND THAT IS WHY THOSE CORPORATIST FOOLS LIKE DISNEY HAVE NO PLACE IN THE AMERICA! LAND OF BRAVE AND FREE!”

He stepped up to the platform.

“AND NOW, THE NEXT PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES! JAAAAMES GRAANT LOOOONG!”

Long stood up, and took the microphone.

“Father Corelin is complet’ly correct! We ain’t gonna roll over to the likes of Disney! Or the likes of Goldman Sachs! I’m for the farmer, the workin’ man! Every man a king! And that is why I will be proposin’ an Agricultural Advancement Administration, to fund all the new developments of technology in those universities! In Louisiana State University, we’re makin’ engines for ya tractors, and new fertiliser for your crops! And it’s god’s land, not the land of those agriculture companies, and we’re gonna free you from those corporate shackles! It’s time for the farmers here to take god’s gift, the gift of land and the hands to grow sustenance! Vote for me, James Long, for your rights, your farms, and your liberty!”

The crowd cheered wildly.

Long stepped away from the stage, as lines of surrogates and allies, the Governor of Louisiana, the Junior Senator, the representatives, all lined up for a turn. He headed towards a smaller room, filled with reporters.

“Now you lot of pressmen, I’ll take a few questions.”

A woman with short orange-brown hair and blue eyes stepped forward.

"Mr. Long, Rosalie Christophers of The Des Moines Tribune. If you become President, how would you deal with big businesses?"

by **The Rio Grande River Basin** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 2:14 pm

Arvenia wrote:
The Rio Grande River Basin wrote:Des Moines, Iowa

The large stage glowed with lights, as Senator Long waltzed onto stage, as an announcer excitedly screamed praises. Father Charles Corelin was quite a vigorous speaker, and had proved his worth to the Long family time and time again.

“…AND THAT IS WHY THOSE CORPORATIST FOOLS LIKE DISNEY HAVE NO PLACE IN THE AMERICA! LAND OF BRAVE AND FREE!”

He stepped up to the platform.

“AND NOW, THE NEXT PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES! JAAAAMES GRAANT LOOOONG!”

Long stood up, and took the microphone.

“Father Corelin is complet’ly correct! We ain’t gonna roll over to the likes of Disney! Or the likes of Goldman Sachs! I’m for the farmer, the workin’ man! Every man a king! And that is why I will be proposin’ an Agricultural Advancement Administration, to fund all the new developments of technology in those universities! In Louisiana State University, we’re makin’ engines for ya tractors, and new fertiliser for your crops! And it’s god’s land, not the land of those agriculture companies, and we’re gonna free you from those corporate shackles! It’s time for the farmers here to take god’s gift, the gift of land and the hands to grow sustenance! Vote for me, James Long, for your rights, your farms, and your liberty!”

The crowd cheered wildly.

Long stepped away from the stage, as lines of surrogates and allies, the Governor of Louisiana, the Junior Senator, the representatives, all lined up for a turn. He headed towards a smaller room, filled with reporters.

“Now you lot of pressmen, I’ll take a few questions.”

A woman with short orange-brown hair and blue eyes stepped forward.

"Mr. Long, Rosalie Christophers of The Des Moines Tribune. If you become President, how would you deal with big businesses?"

“I’d deal with them like Roosevelt did. We’d break up those big banks, and I’d kneecap those oligarchical bigwigs like Disney, and those monopolistic agriculture companies, the likes takin’ away the livelihoods of the good Iowan people. And we’d crush those oil monopolies, and the likes of the big arms companies. I would have no mercy in completin’ god’s work of helpin’ the common man against the goliaths!”

by **Sao Nova Europa** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 2:19 pm

A PUBLIC AFFAIRS SHOW
with MICHAEL JACKSON

INTERVIEW WITH VICE-PRESIDENT HARGREAVES

Michael Jackson: "Today, at Firing Line, I have the honor of welcoming the Vice-President of the United States, Paul Hargreaves. Mr. Vice-President, welcome to our show!"

Paul Hargreaves: "I deeply appreciate you having me on, young man. Working with the President has been one of the great privileges of my life, and seeing how you've taken up a similarly important role in getting the truth out to the American people has been deeply inspiring."

Jackson: "Thank you for your kind words. Mr. Vice-President, before we can discuss specific domestic and foreign policy issues, I would like to ask you to tell me what are you most proud of about your time as Vice-President."

Hargreaves: "Undoubtedly, it has to be beginning the construction of the Interstate Highway System. Make no mistake, this is the single largest public works project undertaken by the United States—and we did it without wasteful bureaucracy, without wasted funds. This is a model of the kind of governmental efficiency and transformative policy that can be achieved under a Republican administration. And the highways, they're not just helping to promote long-term economic growth, opening up new job opportunities for folks who are willing to work farther away from home. They're also crucial to prove to the global fascists that American democracy can build the best roads, the best bridges, the best infrastructure, the best nation in the world. In a tumultuous time like this one, it might be tempting for sovereign nation states on the fence to believe that the German model—autocratic top-down control, with no respect for the rights of individual if it ruthlessly advances the cause of the wider State—is the way to go. That democracy is too messy, too inefficient, too slow to make a difference. The domestic policy of the Jackson administration, with the literal concrete that we are laying, is proving otherwise. And I'm very proud that my time expanding infrastructure projects as Oregon governor actually served as a model for that larger program in this administration."

Jackson: "Before we come back to domestic politics, I need to ask you about the African Campaign. American society is divided - 46% support the war and 42% oppose it. The President insists it is a necessary war to pursue in order to safeguard American national interests and in order to maintain a military presence south of Nazi-dominated Europe. Do you believe that the war can be won? What steps do you believe need to be taken to achieve success? And would you support intensifying the bombardment campaign against insurgent-controlled areas?"

Hagreaves: "Look Michael, I started out my lifelong interest in public service as an anti-fascist campaigner. Even before the Pacific War, before the current struggle between fascism and the free world, I saw the threat posed by this evil political ideology to the free peoples of the globe. I know that many Americans still remember the bombing of Pearl Harbor. It is a visceral, emotional memory for the American public—a reminder that, though we have done more than any other nation on planet Earth to prevent a war on our own soil, our enemies will stop at nothing to attack our freedom, our ideals, and our people. As a matter of professional responsibility, I won't talk specifics about our policy in Africa while I am still serving in this Administration and while the cabinet still makes decisions on this front. But I will say this: I echo President Jackson when he says this is a conflict about 'our very way of life.' The American people understood this in 1941, and they understand it today. On the flip side, it is the job of the American executive to keep our people safe, and I believe that includes preventing escalations of conflicts such as this one. But with President Jonathan Jackson at the helm, I have full faith in his ability to keep our nation strong and secure. The world turned to his leadership during the Pacific War, and we are better off for his leadership today. There is one man and one man only who can do anything about the state of the African Campaign right now, and that is my friend President Jackson. I am not going to say or do anything to undercut his tireless efforts to fight for our citizens and our freedoms."

Jackson: "The Jackson administration has overseen a period of economic prosperity. What do you think are the reasons behind the general growth of the economy, and what economic measures would you like the next administration to undertake to further strengthen the American economy?"

Hargreaves: "Our GDP has exploded nearly 150% since the end of the war. We have only 5% of the world's population, and yet we are making almost half of the world's manufactured goods. Unemployment has decreased, inflation has been low, wage growth has been high. And, perhaps most significantly—and an achieved by big-spending Democrats—our budgets have been balanced. These successes are no accident; they are a result of careful governance and an administration with experts acting in the interest of the ordinary American family, not the interest of their ideological agenda. It's happened because we've used enough concrete on infrastructure to build six sidewalks to the moon, making the world wider for the average American worker who can now access jobs far and wide, not just in their own neighborhood. It's happened because we've worked in partnership with the American corporation to promote a responsible economic policy: we build them the best nation in the world to manufacture, they pay the taxes needed to help maintain that great nation and keep its books balanced. All the while, we haven't forgotten about those who might be left behind in this booming growth: we've expanded Social Security for the elderly, raised the minimum wage, and created a Department of Health, Education and Welfare to support the poor. We've seen so much success that, if anything, I think we've created the room for the next presidential administration to ease the breaks a bit. The average American wants to keep more of their money, while continuing to see these modernized public services. Perhaps the next administration might consolidate some of these outdated, clerical agencies of the New Deal era, and lower taxes for the ordinary working man. Ideally, the poorest in our society should pay no tax at all. I believe the Republicans have the answers on economic policies because we've shown the results."

Jackson: "The Jackson administration has also been pursuing an expansion of civil rights. The President signed the 1957 Civil Rights Act and sent Army troops to enforce federal court orders which integrated schools in Little Rock, Arkansas. Do you believe the federal government should undertake further measures to enforce civil rights or has the federal government already done way too much?"

Hargreaves: "It is not a question of too much or too little; it is a question of what kind of legislation is truly needed to help all American families. Our country should look to the future, and should stop burying our heads in the ways of the recent past. I can certainly embrace that spirit of freshnesss that so many Civil Rights campaigners are pushing. I do not, however, believe that the solution is more top-down enforcement from the federal government. I believe President Jackson did what was necessary to integrate the schools with the Congressional legislation three years ago, and all that hullaballoo in Arkansas was an unfortunate consequence to realize the goals of that legislation. But that time is over, those kind of skirmishes should certainly not become the norm. Our federal government should not be in the business of tearing our country apart by tightening its own control. I believe that is antithetical to the vision of our Founders. Instead, we should embrace a different kind of federal policy—a new policy that respects state's rights to do what's right for their own unique people with specific needs, without excessive encroachment from Washington. I just don't believe folks in D.C.'s ivory towers necessarily know what's best for Real Americans all over the country. What Capitol Hill and the White House needs to be pursuing is a more positive, promotional agenda that lifts all boats—the white man, the black man, all men—with more opportunities, not more control. I believe that the American Negro deserves to be given every possible economic pathway towards realizing our nation's dream, whether they live in the North or the South. That's what Dubois believed, and that's what I believe today. Let's not wage any more war on our own people with a kind of fascistic federal grip; instead, let's give tax incentives, subsidies, or whatever it takes to extend America's economic boons to all."

Jackson: "Vice-President, we've seen a number of politicians - and even a CEO like Mr. Disney - declare their candidacies for the office of the presidency. Do you have plans to enter the race? Do you have a desire to continue your work, this time as President?"

Hargreaves: "Michael, it's always my intention to be straight with the American people. And if I'm being honest—do I think about ways in which I can be most of service to our great country? Of course I do. We have a lot of talent in our party right now; I have the great privilege of communicating with our Senate on a fairly frequent basis, and Senator Gary, Senator Watts, Senator Aleksevitch—these are fine young men, with whom I sometimes have disagreements but who are a helluva lot more competent than anyone leading the Democrats' presidential charge at the moment. I've truly been impressed by Governor Nelson of New York—a very smart young man, very capable. He's got his wife in the Senate too, she talks equally well. I hope they see what I've been trying to say about a new direction for our Grand Old Party—a direction that draws from the foundational ideas of the Founding Fathers but also pushes us into a new kind of future. Uniting around the freedom of the individual, the freedom of our states, and the freedom of our country is a powerful, powerful message at a time the fascists around the world our breathing down our necks, and at a time when the Democrats are too busy squabbling amongst themselves. A unity of our party and our vision is what I've been trying to achieve with this new Republican Governor's Association, which is steadily growing in size, and that's what I'm focused on right now. But the public can expect a decision on a presidential campaign before the end of this month. As for Mr. Disney...he must forgive me, I don't know the man personally, but I'm unsure how his ability to run Mickey Mouse might translate into an ability to run the nation."

Jackson: "Fair enough. What do you think about the state of the Democratic Party? So far, the leading candidates for the party's presidential nomination have threatened to hang sitting Senators, have proposed busing KKK members to New York, and have accused America of committing war crimes in Africa. Has the Democratic Party been radicalized? How will this affect American politics?"

Hargreaves lets out a good chuckle before responding.

Hargreaves: "Yeah, I mean you've really laid out the truth of the matter in that rundown alone. Every ordinary American citizen can see what's going on with the Democrat Party if they want to. Most Americans, they're normal people Michael. They don't want to see political leaders hanged, violent groups sent to other states, democratic institutions slandered. This is America, not some tinpot fascist nation run by loons! And I believe the Democrats, the further they move away from reason and towards this nonsense, are simply shooting themselves in the foot. It's up to us Republicans to show who's been truly successful in actual governance, who's been getting results while they've been running their mouths. Because really, that's all the Longs and the Sparks of the world are good at: long lies and empty sparks. We'll take the high ground while they burn themselves."

Jackson: "One of the issues the current administration has been criticized about is that it has not taken enough action about the drugs epidemic plaguing our youth and against rioting by anti-war and civil rights activists. What measures you would support to enforce law and order in this country?"

Hargreaves: "I'm glad you ask Michael, I'm truly glad. Simply put, law and order must be the single immediate priority of the next administration if the Democrats manage to stall our actions on crime in this session. There is no progress with lawlessness. The ordinary American, he obeys the law, goes to Church, pays his taxes, sends his kids to school, and loves his country. But there are elements today who seek to disrupt this. These internal enemies, along with the fascist foreign threat, are posing a serious danger to all of the progress we have made on economics and domestic harmony. It is the job of the federal government to empower and encourage states to do more in keeping their people safe. To this end, I'd support a robust federal grant program to place more funds into local police departments around the country that need the help. We need stricter sentencing on the scourge of drugs—our children are gifts from God, they must be kept safe from such substances. Above all, let's hope our next president, whoever he may be, agrees to fight a War on Lawlessness."

Jackson: "This is indeed something that is absolutely necessary. Let us return back to foreign policy for a moment. China in the last few years has aligned itself closer with Germany. Do you believe we can reapproach China? Do you believe Chiang Kai-Shek can become our friend again? Or should we instead focus on approaching India - a geopolitical rival of China - and bolstering our allies - Korea, Japan, Thailand, and the Philippines - to face possible Chinese aggression?"

Hargreaves: "In this dangerous world, it is imperative we forge new alliances, strengthen our relationships with existing allies, and remain assertive against those who side with the fascists. And I believe making new commitments towards protecting India's territorial integrity is critical in positioning ourselves firmly against global fascist-leaning forces. We cannot allow China to get too comfy. That being said, should Chiang ever be willing to talk, the U.S. must always be open. But no friendship is made without a few ground rules."

Jackson: "We are running out of time, so I would like to ask you to address our viewers."

Hargreaves: "My fellow Americans, in this new decade, I ask you to think about your place in history. We often write governments, armies, and entire nations into the history books, but what about the individual? For ultimately, it's the private man and his family who shapes the moment. Some of these moments will stand out as new beginnings—thoughts, words, and actions that might shape the course of the next decades, and the centuries after them. Our new times offer new challenges. We are rich in material goods, rich in our opportunities. But we are poor in unity. Our nation is torn—torn over our cultural differences by state, torn over our beliefs on the war, torn on whether discord and violence is the answer to our spiritual crisis. Friends, it does not have to be this way. The normal American may still triumph if we recognize that it is our differences as a country—a United States of America—that makes us strong, that makes our form of governance the most unique and successful political experiment in the history of the world. Above all, it is the job of the elected official, at both the state and federal level, to act in service of that normal American, respect his liberty, and keep him safe. Let's keep that mission in mind this year in our homes and at the ballot box. Thank you for having me on this evening Michael, and may God bless our troops."

Jackson: "Thank you, Vice-President. With that, we conclude tonight's show. See you tomorrow. Until then, have a good night."

by **Arvenia** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 2:29 pm

The Rio Grande River Basin wrote:
Arvenia wrote:A woman with short orange-brown hair and blue eyes stepped forward.

"Mr. Long, Rosalie Christophers of The Des Moines Tribune. If you become President, how would you deal with big businesses?"

“I’d deal with them like Roosevelt did. We’d break up those big banks, and I’d kneecap those oligarchical bigwigs like Disney, and those monopolistic agriculture companies, the likes takin’ away the livelihoods of the good Iowan people. And we’d crush those oil monopolies, and the likes of the big arms companies. I would have no mercy in completin’ god’s work of helpin’ the common man against the goliaths!”

"Another question", the reporter replied. "How would you implement your economic policies without destroying the US economy?"

by **Sao Nova Europa** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 2:33 pm

Azekopolaltion wrote:I will now take any questions you might have.

A reporter from the National Review raised his hand. "Sir, you've slandered our brave men who are fighting for freedom and democracy in Africa of committing war crimes. How dare you!? Our boys are fighting the good fight to stave off Fascist expansionism, and you are slandering them! Have you got no shame, sir?"

by **Newne Carriebean7** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 2:37 pm

Birmingham, Alabama
January 6, 1960

This would be the first test of his political campaign. To see if the “wild man of the Senate” had it in him for a serious and disciplined run for the white house. The old man peeked from behind the curtain set up for him and looked at the modest crowd size. From what he could tell, it wasn’t any bigger than almost a thousand people. And the location for the event was as simplistic as it could get. Just the local park, with him standing on one of the park’s gazebos to give his prittle prattle speech to the unwashed masses. He was thankful it was a small crowd, save if someone horrible happened upon him. He looked at his notes, sweating a bit before Cletus waltzed over to give the nervous man a pep talk.

“Cimmon you ol’ geezer. You’ll be fine. Y’all know what t’ gives ‘ems… the southern delight his-self.. The wild man of the Senate. In fact, can you mention your senate campaign at the end too, please?”

Sparks is interrupted by Cletus’s idiot talking. The man feels nervous and simply waves his advisor away, to which he does so respectfully, but nervously. He wished that Trevor had been here today, but he was off getting things ready the next state over for his campaign event in Mississippi, so he was mostly by himself today. He stared at the small amount of buttons and campaign merchandise hastily scrapped and stamped out together, an assortment of campaign buttons that had erased the ‘FOR SENATE’ part and slapped a label on them that read ‘FOR WHITE HOUSE’ instead.

“I see, I see. Are they ready for ol’ Parkin-Sparkin’ Sparks to give ‘em their just desserts?”
Sparks anchored himself by the red curtain that hid most of the pavilion from view of the crowd. The old man gingerly looked in the mirror and quickly taped over a toupee that gave the appearance of a full head of hair.

“And Now, Ladies n’ Genn’el men, I give to you, Alabama’s son and Kentucky’s bastard prodigey, the man who saved fifteen horses from a burnin’ stable when he was a teeee-n, the one, the only , the man the myth and the legend, Josha-I mean William Dupont Sparks, Senator from the cotton state!”

Sparks walked out onto the tiny sliver of the pavilion dedicated to his speech weidling abilities, smiling his best smile and shaking the hands of a few of the kids within the crowd. He winked at the various applauding faces, a mixture of mostly men, but with several women that they had dragged along to hear from their elected official. It had technically been billed as “Meet your Senator”, which explained the lackluster turnout. However, Sparks was just fine with a few hundred friendly crowdsfellas in contrast to a sea of angry, hurtiling and venomous voices such as in Chicago.

“Ahem.. A very hearty welcome to the first event of my uh-campaign… Now, don’t fault my southern behind if I am nervous, it happens to everyone. I would enjoy to have your attention directed to the African campaign. This is a theater that our brave infantrymen are dying in. I have never demeaned or belittled the troops in the three years we have currently been deployed there. As my role in a Senator, I frequently undergo trips all over the country to raise awareness about the ongoing war in Africa. I would like to first talk about what I have currently undergone with respect to the war. I’d argue we cannot win such an event. I have no problems with the men making the ultimate sacrifice. I wish we had more of them coming alive than dead.

This is a conflict we are fighting with an unknown foe. The Nazi menace which gleams from every unwashed tree to every rock in the ground village. Unfortunately, they are not wearing their bright black uniforms, which would grant the United States Air Force an easy time in leveling those nazi marching fools into oblivion. They have militias fighting alongside them, armed with negroes wielding black powder muskets and rifles of the second weltkrieg. Talk about that recent ambush which lead to the unfortunate deaths of twelve American servicemen. Every single life is precious, that is what I was raised to believe and it’s what my church believes.

I ask General Jackson, if he’s such a great general, why has ultimate victory not been achieved? Why does he have to have his cheerleading, nepotistic Michael Jackson been the spokesperson for the military industrial complex? He’s been as careless with the lives of Americans under his command as he has been with respecting the rights of states! I know a thing or do about warfare. I served in the First Weltkrieg, er World War in nazi speak.

I for one, have the infantryman’s perspective, at a later date, I will be leading a delegation of senators for a first hand account on the infantryman’s perspective in the war. We don’t need to talk to Generals who rarely leave their palaces and who have their heads so far up their asses they can smell shit! I’m talking about the gruff grunt son of a bitch who’s doing the fighting and the dying, that’s the kind of man I wanna get to know. I’d trade a thousand men’s bravery for the cowardice and incompetence of a military general any day of the week!

I am the candidate for the humble, rifle slung infantryman who wants to return home to his family a hero, not in a casket. Unfortunately, sometimes in war, people die… Speaking of the unfortunate, I shall now shift gears to another topic that is almost as near and dear to my heart as the ongoing “Jacksonian Blunder in the Sand with American boys”. That subject is preserving the southern way of life. I’d argue that the Southern way of life is intertwined and connected with the American way of life. Both want to see the poor better on off than they actually are, and most of ‘em don’t wanna have no federal gub’ment comin’ down here to tell ‘em what to do.

You cannot ‘ell what Alabama is to do. You can’t just boss us Southern states around. That’s a violation of state’s rights and probably in violation of the U.S. Constitution. All those so-called civil rights agitators who lie down in front of traffic? I dare say we need to just step out of the way and let natural selection run these dumbasses down. Any officer of the peace who argues they’re within’ their rights to be breakin’ windows and burinin’ buildin’s down to the stubs ought to be given a can full of whoop ass courtesy of Alabama’s finest men in uni-form.

Speakin’ of whoopin’ some ass, I’d like to set aside around this paragraph to talk about us needing to restore, among other things, God and the Constitution. Not many of the kids I talk to in my protests n’ rallies have thought much about the good word of the good lord Jesus Christ. That is somethin’ that we’ll have to fix in a Sparks Administration. My Administration would make church attendance not compulsory, but I wouldn’t be opposed to teachin’ the children of this earth a few good moral lessons about our humanitee and how to treat your fellow white man with the utmost respect.

Black man too, I might opine. I want you all to at least tilt your hat at a negro when he comes your way. You don’t go out of your way to disparage individual negroes. Not all of ‘em are too bad. In fact, many are just as nice as the whites, but they are uncivilized to a degree. In spite of their backwardness,they are AMERICANS, like you and me. They worship the same gods, and they’ll be a prayin’ in their own churches, eatin’ their own barbeque and fishin’ their own swimmin’ holes. Separate but equal’s the law of the land, the land I legally recognize, that is! They ain’t ready for full integration. Maybe you pass ‘em on by the street corner or on that Park, lemme shout somethin’ out… here…”

Sparks then rushes over and barks at an african american man who had been standing idly by to rush onto the stage.

“Don’t you worry about a thing, I’ll treat you right as rain. Now, what’s your name?”

“Uh.. Jerome.”

“OK, Mr. Jerome. What’s the biggest issue facin’ this country today.”

“Well. I can’t see a movie any-time I like. I have to go between certain hours.”

“That’s not fair, now is it. As President, I’d let you see a movie whenever you’d like. In your OWN THEATER, WITH AIR CONDITIONING. Thank you Jermome.”

“Jerome.”

“Whatever, go talk to my campaign manager about getting the money we previously agreed on. Good Act, boy!”

“Now, the African don’t bite. He only smells a bit from his unwashed hands and the fifteen wifes he’s got on the table to feed! No children, no nuclear family and no hope at a better life. I ain’t sayin’ we need to give handouts for the Negroes, but I am sayin’ that we all need to at least be respectin’ them. That’s all I’m sayin. Not equal rights, but societal changes that bring ‘em respect. Don’t you be callin’ me a marxist or a nazi or some other horrible slur, like liberal. I am a man of the south. I respect all folks around me. I don’t respect agitators and anarchists that wanna burn the country down! That’s all folks!

In order to start building a truly national campaign, The Sparks campaign has started to send out flyers to the states of Alabama, Mississippi and Iowa with the following information on them.

“Who’s got their eyeballs in cash?”

“MICKEY MOUSE!”

“Who’s sleepin’ with the fash?”

“MICKEY MOUSE!”

“Who’s on your telly and who’s lyin’ awfully much?”

“MIC-KEY- MOU-SE!”

Wallace Disney might have the star power and the cash, but can he lead a nation?

Why dosen’t he answer these tough questions?

Is he possibly a homosexual?

THE WORLD MAY NEVER KNOW!!!

VOTE WILLIAM SPARKS FOR PRESIDENT, YOUR WIFE WILL THANK YOU LATER!!!

by **The Rio Grande River Basin** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 2:41 pm

Arvenia wrote:
The Rio Grande River Basin wrote:“I’d deal with them like Roosevelt did. We’d break up those big banks, and I’d kneecap those oligarchical bigwigs like Disney, and those monopolistic agriculture companies, the likes takin’ away the livelihoods of the good Iowan people. And we’d crush those oil monopolies, and the likes of the big arms companies. I would have no mercy in completin’ god’s work of helpin’ the common man against the goliaths!”

"Another question", the reporter replied. "How would you implement your economic policies without destroying the US economy?"

“I’ve laid it out on Firin’ Line, Rosalie, if I may call ya that, look at Louisiana. I executed those policies, and even dragged us outta deficit! We’re makin’ an investment. More folks with jobs, more folks with an education. And we’re gonna tax wealth, and cap wealth. We do not propose to say that there shall be no rich men. We do not ask to divide the wealth. We only propose that, when one man gets more than he and his children and children's children can spend or use in their lifetimes, that then we shall say that such person has his share. That means that a few billion dollars is the limit to what any one man can own.

Frankly, that’s a compromise. But I want to stop the likes of Disney and those Wall Street bankers from oppressing the common man any longer. We've got everything our people need. Why not let all have their fill and lie down in the ease and comfort God has given us? God told you what the trouble was. The philosophers told you what the trouble was; and when you have a country where one man owns more than 100,000 people, or a million people, and when you have a country where there are 40 men, as in America that have got more control over things than all the 180 million people together, you know what the trouble is. And we’re gonna make ‘em pay their fair share, and we’re gonna use that money to help the people.”

FLAMES OF LIBERTY (1960 American Political RP) - IC

Aleskevitch

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