The Land Of The Free: An American Political Roleplay (IC)

by **Vaquas** » Sat Sep 14, 2019 1:01 pm

CURRENT DATE: April 25, 2019 - May 2, 2019

In Character Thread

What is Washington D.C? Is it the nexus of a national and global elite, hatching their plans for further dominance of the citizenry? Is it the home of statesmen, some falling from the path, but truly trying to make America a better place? Is it simply a carefully-stacked deck of cards, ready to fall as soon as doubts sweep in? Is it the hope of the angels of Madison, or the devils of man? Does the machinery of government move by the effort of the honest, the machinations of the wicked, or the inexorable trend of inertia and bureaucracy, heeding no man?

Perhaps it is simply a place like any other, everyday humans with delusions of grandeur thinking themselves more than they are, or simply struggling through their own days as do we all.

What is Washington? It is the capital of the Land of the Free.

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

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

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

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

5. Please make characters of quality and substance. We don't want Mary Sue flawless characters who are 30 year olds, models, former sharecroppers with military service earning a medal of honor and then returning from Iraq to attend Harvard. Those characters aren't very fun to play or interact with. But on the other hand-no sabotage characters. Just because you hate Democrats, don't make a hopelessly corrupt and scandal-ridden Democrat with no redeeming qualities.
6. No cheat-edits. Once you've made an IC post, leave it. Edits to formatting are all right along with typos, but don't try to change anything major compared to what you have already written, especially if it has already been responded to. If your character said it in public, it must stay. Gaffes happen, after all.

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

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

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

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

Please wait for your application to be accepted before posting in-character.

by **Alozia** » Sat Sep 14, 2019 1:02 pm

Governor's Mansion
Olympia, Washington
Anne Murphy Caldwell
January 3, 2019

The heavily dressed Christmas tree seemed to fit in well with the fancy design of the living room. Ever since she took up residence in the Mansion Anne gradually tried to make it's interior more modest. Heavily decorated rooms felt foreign to the Caldwells who led modest lives depite the matriarch's status as a relatively high-profile figure. Anne knew well where she came from, daughter of middle-class Irish Catholics she was never drawn to fancy paintings or chairs. As Representative, both in Olympia and D.C. she would always live frugally, with her offices always having a modest interior and the various apartments she lived in located in safe, but not expensive neighbourhoods. When she was first elected she wanted to make big changes to the mansion, wanting to replace fancy furniture and removing unnecessary, overwhelming decorations. While she enjoyed a fair amount of success in achieving latter, the former turned out to be more difficult. Replacing the furniture would have turned out to be costly and, as one of her advisors rightfully pointed out, the Mansion is supposed to play a representative role. Besides "who knows how old these things are, exactly?"

A red car was stood behind the Mansion with a small group of people gathered around it. Anne handed the suitcase to her son, John.

"Are you sure you don't want to stay?" she asked as John tried his best to stuff the last suitcase into the trunk.

"I'd love to, but you know how things are..."

"Oh, that job of yours." Anne replied, a pinch of sarcasm in her voice. "I'm surprised you got some time off to come."

"It's Christmas. My job's not that bad."

"How about we agree to disagree, huh?" A voice behind the two chimed in. "Besides, John needs to save his energy for the trip. California's far away."

"Especially when you don't use a plane..."

"Exactly." Henry added, smiling. "Now, give me a hug."

John did as asked before hugging his mom.

"Drive safe!" she added as he got into his car.

"I will!"

With that the car drove off. Anne and Henry waved them goodbye before returning to the Mansion. She stepped back into the Mansion and stopped. She stood in the hallway, completely motionless. For some odd reason Henry followed. She stood frozen for a while. Listening.

Nothing.

The house that was filled with people just a couple of hours ago now was nearly empty.

"Should we get a dog?" Anne asked, finally breaking the silence.

"What?" Henry asked confused, Anne's thoughtful aura must have had an effect on him as well. Train of thought

"Dog. Four legs, a tail, you know... woof-woof."

Henry took a second to respond, still getting out of his own train of thought. He furrowed his eyebrows in a caring, sympathetic way. "I miss them too."

"It's just that... It all feels empty... you know?" Anne replied, her voice slightly strained, tears gathering in her eyes.

Henry pulled her into a tight hug. "Want to visit a shelter tommorow?"

"Yeah."

by **Uttland** » Sat Sep 14, 2019 1:12 pm

The winds blew crisp and cold on two lonely figures marching along the rows of the historic deceased at Rosewood Cemetary. One stumbled slowly, carrying a plastic garbage bag and a few gardening tools, trying to keep up with the other figure; that was William Whitaker, the elder statesman. The other figure was Whitaker's daughter Helen, a venerable public servant herself. She carried along steadily, holding a gallon of water and flowers, pausing every now and then to let her father catch up. They knew where they were going; they had been there several times before. They spotted the footstone bearing the following:

JAMES PATRICK WHITAKER
OCTOBER 4, 1961 TO APRIL 24, 1978
LOYAL SON; FOREVER LOVED

It had been a few months since they last visited together; recent events had forced the younger Whitaker away from Chicago. Grass and weeds had grown wildly, nearly covering the small stone, now covered in dirt. The flowers left in the green cone had long since wilted; they would turn to dust if even touched. The pair got to work. Helen squatted down, her long coat dragging along the grass. There was no need for words; things like these were ritual, and required no direction. The elder Whitaker passed down the hand rake, with which Helen began to clear the grass and weeds from around the footstone. Within seconds, with great force, the soil around the stone was turned into like a brown frame, physically pulling the difficult weeds by hand. These clippings were torn into the plastic bag on the ground by her side. The foliage cleared, Whitaker took the gallon of water, and trickled it over the stone. It began to clear as sediment was washed away, and with a sponge, the woman pushed it all to the sides. Continuing at this for a few moments, the monument was now clean.

Now was time for the flowers. The two corner cones stood surprisingly firm in their place, but slightly bent. Helen adjusted them, righting them in place, and trickling a bit of water to clean them, and scrubbing at them with the sponge. Unwrapping the flowers, which were at her side, she placed half of them in the right cone and the other half in the left one. Standing up now, Helen stood back and admired her work. Her father looked solemnly. None of this was necessary, mind you, it could always be arranged with the cemetery to be done on behalf of them, like the other Whitakers buried at Rosehill, but it simply did not feel right to delegate caring for a grave. As thus, for the past forty years, father and daughter tended to this footstone above their son and brother's grave.

The cleaning was done. Both Whitakers made the sign of the cross-left to right to middle, other than three fingers, as was the Methodist way-and stood silently for a moment. William spoke first, "It's always good to come back here. Keeps you grounded," it seemed it was the beginning of his usual diatribe, but it soon took a stark turn. "He, not you Helen, was supposed to stand where you are today. I do not mean this cruelly, but my expectations were on him, but not you."

The elder man took a handkerchief and wiped away a few tears, early in their forming of his eyes. He leaned closer to his daughter, wrapping an arm around her, pointing to the grave with the other. Helen accepted this, and she could not figure out why. Yet she took on the degradation, she looked onward, slightly listening.

"Fate, cruel fate, has proven me a fool. And you stand today my only child. Helen, dear, you have outdone what I had planned for you and more. You are on the cusp of greatness. About to accomplish what I could not, and what he," William said, pointing aggressively at the footstone. "He could not even attempt. Do not abandon this. Declare. Fulfill what we have long tried but have failed beforehand."

Helen just smiled. She had long known this; that her father had expected her to win the highest office in the land. And truth be told, she wanted it too. Politics as an active participant was never her natural career goal; she saw herself more naturally as an observer in her youth. She always wanted to be connected to it, but never an active mover and shaker. That was long since passed now. Again, fate had proven her a fool. The death of her only brother transferred all future family hopes to her, especially if her father William's ultimate career move never materialized, which it didn't. Thus newfound ambition materialized within. It wasn't inherently self-serving-Helen did want to do good in the world as she saw it, and believed she had the right policies to do so. But a sense of destiny and a quest for power did have it's place within her ambition. And as she stood before her dead brother's grave, it never felt more so. She had to prove that she too, could achieve 'greatness'.

To her father, she nodded, and he disengaged from her. The Whitakers moved onwards, to pay their respects to other family at Rosehill. The wind picked up at great speed, their long coats flowing with it. leaves fell from their trees and-

***

Helen's phone rang. The former secretary of state was stirred awake from her deep nap; she rushed up to a sitting position, her copy of Elena Ferrante's My Brilliant Friend, formerly resting on her lap, fell to the floor. Whatever that was, was disturbing, but it did remind her it had been a while since she visited the cemetery. That did have to be rectified. Whatever else that occurred, that could remain bearing on her conscience. Rushing over to her phone, she picked it up hurridly, "Hello?"

"This is the IRS, you owe us-"

It was a scam, Helen hung up immediately. She picked up the book she was supposed to be reading, and began to read, but feeling lazy, she left it on a side table, going back to sleep.

by **Vaquas** » Sat Sep 14, 2019 1:15 pm

January 3, 2019
Charlotte Windsor (D-RI)
Hart Senate Office Building

Arriving back at her office following the swearing in of the new United States Senate Class, Charlotte Windsor considered just how long she had been in Washington. The types of people maneuvering through the halls and extending hands had changed radically in ways that she would never have expected when she took her seat in the upper chamber smack dab in the middle of the Reagan era. Avowed socialists, now full members of her caucus and carrying large amounts of public support, if some of the things she had read were to be believed. Such a thing was unfathomable just a short while ago, and yet, here she is. White men were still plentiful roaming the rotunda, of course, and they always would be, but some of them had been supplanted by those with darker faces, or women such as herself.

She briefly wondered about what Strom Thurmond would think of all of this, but that train of thought died quickly, as she already knew the answer. As she considered what was to come, for the party and for her, her favorite pen sailed across a notepad, the ultimate destination of the slip of paper being the desk of a similarly old-time colleague who was considering retirement. A rare joke from the Minority Leader would dominate the page, her tone friendly enough to any prospective reader. She always had to be a little friendly when her intentions were less so.

It was not that Charlotte thought the new class would be difficult to reign in. Quite the opposite. Many of her enemies within the caucus were those in the red states that had been deposed in the hyper-partisan midterms that had just carved a democratic majority out of the House and pushed two more Republicans into the Senate. The socialists, well, they’d be easier to placate on the whole, if she had properly judged them. Then again, this was a new era to be won, and though it pained her to admit it, she could not be sure about the trajectory of these upstarts.

The door to her office opened, a scared looking intern entering with a Chicken Caesar Salad and holding it like it was the nuclear football. She stared at him with an expectation that he would place the salad on her desk, but he did no such thing, instead staring nervously at one of the most powerful women in Washington.

“Where do they find you people…” she muttered before motioning to her desk, her demands clear now to the shaking 20 year old. The aide all but threw the salad on the desk in embarrassment, making a hasty retreat from the room before Windsor could speak, the door thudding closed behind him. Shaking her head, she set in with her own set of silverware, kept neatly in her desk for her daily snack, discarding the plastic utensils that came with the meal. As she took in the first bite, she decided it was a day like any other, ultimately.

by **Agarntrop** » Sat Sep 14, 2019 2:23 pm

Columbia Cemetery
30 E Broadway, Columbia, MO 65203, USA
January 3rd, 2019

Barry drove. It was not a long journey between Barry's Missouri residence in Jefferson City to his native town Columbia, half an hour or so. There were five cars driving along, each for the families of the surviving children of David Anderson. Why were they visiting his grave today? Well, January 3rd 2019 marked 22 years since his death.

Not a word had been said by anyone during the whole ordeal. They all arrived and exited in a simultaneous, almost synchronised way. They all made the long stroll to his grave which read

Here lies David Anderson
3rd September 1925 - 3rd January 1997
Much loved by all his family

The grave lied right next to the grave of Barry's mother, Linda Anderson, who died at a later date in 2014. It was simple, and deliberately did not name Barry in any way whatsoever, as he ordered that it make no reference to the fact that his son was a controversial senator, making the grave somewhat anonymous.

The flowers were laid on the grave in a regimented, inconspicuous and simple procedure. All the surviving sons and daughters laid them silently one by one, with Barry going first and then standing there with clasped hands watching the others to partake, silently. Then they made the short walk back to the cars, they were now going for a family dinner to further commemorate the event, but not a word had been said during the first half of the ceremony.

Harpo's Bar and Grill
29 S 10th St, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
January 3rd, 2019

The second half of the ceremony was more lighthearted, and there was plenty of discussion now the flower-laying had been done. Barry's wife, Denise, was the first to break the silence when she said to her sister-in-law, Sarah, "Hi", to which Sarah replied
"Oh, hi 'Neise".
Then Karen, Barry's sister, told a waiter "Err, we reserved a table for sixteen?", to which the waiter replied
"Sure madam, just right over there." They sat down, with far more smiles than at the flower-laying. There was a lot of discussion, mostly around family matters, but there was talk about what Barry was going to do in Congress, and even around a potential Presidential bid now Wolf had announced he was standing down due to an unexpected capitulation.

"So, err, are you gonna run for president in 2020?" asked Karen, to which Barry responded
"Either I'm running for the Senate or for another position, potentially the president if there's no-one else out there to beat those darn donkey-fuckin' liberal rats." Barry was known to swear.
"I see, now watcha gonna be doin' in congress?"
"Just work further on my anti-fetal murder and anti-Islam work. Anyway, let's get back to family rather than political business shall we?"

After eating and drinking for around an hour, the siblings and their families all went into their cars and drove home, this time much less solemnly than the drive there, and Barry prepared for a long and busy week in the Senate.

by **Yaruqo** » Sat Sep 14, 2019 4:19 pm

Rep. Tim Larson
Washington, DC

Tim Larson and his staff were setting up their new office in the Cannon House Office Building, feeling, for the most part, more optimistic than any of them had felt in the few years since Larson first sat in the House of Representatives as a freshman Congressman. Why? Simply put, for the first time in Rep. Larson's long legislative career, from the Pennsylvania State House to the United States Congress, he would be working within a Democratic majority. No more being forced to the overall legislative sidelines, no more bad faith maneuvering from an empowered Republican majority leadership. Now, he could actually work on progressive legislation in good faith in the House of Representatives. For the first time in a long time, Larson felt like he had a purpose, not to just be a token minority to remind Democratic voters what was at stake.

"Congressman?" Larson shook himself out of his deliberations and turned to face his chief of staff, a woman he'd known since he first was in Harrisburg. "Sorry to disturb you, but I couldn't resist. I took a whack at the grapevine, and long story short, if you want to go on a date with this guy, we could set something up for you before the session gets hot and heavy. He's 38, a psychiatrist with his own practice and he's an associate professor at Georgetown University. His name is John, and-" "Okay, okay, Lauren, you got me at 'this guy'. Let's see his picture...huh, he's pretty good looking. Yeah, you know what, let's set up a date for the weekend. What better way to celebrate our House victory than a hot date?" Larson had learned a few lessons since Harrisburg, including avoiding the dating apps. When he was younger, he'd been on Grindr, when it used to be the only real gay dating app in town. Now, he was on a strictly "no apps" rule, and for good reason. He didn't want to end up like a number of politicians who got a little frisky and found out that their chats were in the tabloids the next week. Well, hopefully this date, like this session, would go swimmingly...

by **The Democratic Marxists** » Sat Sep 14, 2019 8:24 pm

January 3rd, 2019
Abigail Winthrop (D-MA)
309 Hart Senate Office Building

Senator Winthrop had just returned from the Capitol building to her familiar office. Everything was neat and prim, just as she liked it. Her beautiful mahogany desk was spotless, except for a nicely stacked pack of papers and folders, organized by priority. Abby walked to her desk and sat down, sighing as she stared at the papers.

New year, new ideas.

Her chief of staff, Ajay Banerjee, waved at her as he strolled into the room. It was about time for her daily afternoon briefing with her senior advisers. Ajay was her most trusted advisor; he had a wide range of experience, varying from Silicon Valley to political organizing. Abby valued his opinion on most policy decisions. After him she greeted her legal aide and policy director, who were both instrumental in drafting her legislative ideas.

“Ok. Now we’re all assembled. And I’m back from that thoroughly boring swearing-in of the newbies. Right, let’s get down to the nitty gritty stuff. Ajay, tell me our goals for this first quarter, go.”

Her chief of staff pushed up his glasses and responded. “Abby, we’re still angling for that position as ranking member on the HELP committee. Senator Windsor will probably require some needling to get you on that, but it’s nothing we can’t accomplish. We’re also taking a different approach to our legislative goals this session: the team has pitched the idea of partnering with a Republican.”

Senator Winthrop frowned. “What did you say our first legislative priority was...”

Her policy director cleared his throat and jumped in. “We’re prioritizing the Student Investment Act. You know, your tuition deferral plan for private universities.”

Abby couldn’t think why a GOP Senator would back her plan. “Why would they support a plan written by a progressive loon?”

Her policy director replied, “Because the plan isn’t nuts. Actually, it’ll be quite easy to rally moderate Dems and Republicans around it. Conservatives will like the plan because it discourages the Federal Loan process, and instead puts the onus on colleges to make a long term investment in students. Basically it removes the middleman and encourages students to take out a small loan from colleges themselves. Conservatives will eat it up, and its a viable solution to the loan crisis. It would be a big win if you could rally at least some cosponsors from across the aisle.”

“Which Senator do you suggest?” Abby asked.

Her chief of staff spoke up, “Senator Hawthorne of Ohio. He’s a young cultural conservative who would probably be up for a bill that reduces government intervention in education. If he signs on, you can bet that others will listen.”

Abby nodded. “Ok. Reach out to his team. I want to meet for lunch.”

Ajay pulled out his laptop. “Our team’s already drafted the email. All I gotta do is hit the send button.

Abby smiled. “I like that you’re ahead of the game!”

TO: Luke Hawthorne
SUBJECT: January 4th meeting on possible legislative partnership

Dear Senator Hawthorne,

As you well know, the earlier the start, the bigger the splash. As the new Congress is in session, it is imperative that significant legislation is drafted early in order to be recognized by the wider Congressional body. With the early drafting of policy comes the early formation of bipartisan partnerships.

I highly respect your ability to speak your mind and not stick by party conventions. Sometimes the key to intelligent policy construction is the input of different perspectives. You may know that I have long been an advocate for the establishment of tuition deferral programs in all private colleges, which would discourage students from taking out student loans from the federal government and instead the colleges would make a long term investment in students, allowing them to repay their tuition in a 20 year period following college. This plan obviously comes with countless details, but I thought you may be interested in being a cosponsor to this bill, considering your longtime advocacy for preventing the government from meddling in student loans.

I’d like to meet for lunch tomorrow to discuss. Please let me know if you are available and interested.

Cheers,
Senator Abigail Windsor
United States Senator from Massachusetts

by **Dentali** » Sun Sep 15, 2019 12:54 am

Speaker Malcolm Douglas
Longworth House Office Building, Washington DC

“Congresswoman! Please enter” Douglas shifted in his wheelchair and shook the hand of the young and confident Congresswoman entering his office, barely in her 30s she had been elected in 2018 and was incredibly progressive, from one of those blue districts where you were as likely to meet bigfoot as you were a Republican.

After seating herself, Douglas continued to speak with her, keeping a pleasant tone “Congresswoman you voted against HR 23 the last session, the carbon emissions resolution… You would told the party line was FOR the legislation and the Whip spoke with you about it… can I ask why you voted against it?”

The young woman collected herself, speaking with practice poise and confidence, to Douglas she seemed straight out of central casting, using the same cadence and practice speech she used to address a rally or some yuppie, “Malcolm, to speak frankly the bill fell fall short of where we need to be. Our party needs to be the party of ideals and aspirations for the future, and generations like mine, children like mine and children yet to come deserve that kind of idealism. Now is not a time for half measures, now is a time for resolutions like the Green New Deal.”

Douglas listened politely and smiled “I understand that, I have several children of my own and they indeed have informed much of my politics… You have a son... correct?”

“Yes Malcolm” she said dispensing with the title and using an unearned familiarity “Frederick, he just turned 8” Malcolm nodded pleasantly “A christmas baby then?” Malcolm said with a chuckle, “you and your husband have your hands full at that age. He just got discharged from the Air Force correct? Your husband?” Malcolm’s odd familiarity with her husband was a bit surprising to the Congresswoman but not completely out of the ordinary “Yes he served for about a decade.”

“My wife and I had to deal with that too, I served and was deployed overseas” Malcolm said a bit wistfully “Its rougher than you could imagine going in. You husband gets deployed in mid March 2010, suddenly youre alone.” Malcolm’s tone began to get sharper and sharper, shades darker as he dug through his desk “You think you can handle it” he says dropping a folder on the desk “but things are rough, suddenly its 9 months later and you bribe your doctor to lie to your husband about the due date, that its 2 week late when it comes.” the Congresswoman is visibly shaking as Malcolm opens up a folder containing doctors record with due dates listed which he shows to her, “Maybe you tell your husband, maybe you get over it and work through it… but I doubt your ever tell your son, or your constituents for that matter.”

The Speaker slid the folder over to the Congresswoman “You can keep that one if you want… I have copies. Next time you are told the party line, ask yourself… what will really be best for your children?”

The Congresswoman nearly in tears and deathly pale nodded and got up “Yes Mr. Speaker” she walked out the room now cowed, but moments later a new energy entered the room, a hectic one that followed the Speaker’s secretary Cheryl “Mr. Speaker, the television. Its President Wolf…”

by **Agarntrop** » Sun Sep 15, 2019 2:25 am

Room 260, Russell Senate Office Building
2 Constitution Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA
January 4th, 2019

Getting from Jefferson City to Washington was a hassle, to say the least. Driving took 15 hours, public transport took 24 and could result in Barry getting seen by a radical leftist and assaulted, or worse. The nearest airport, Columbia Regional, did not do direct flights there. Barry had to drive 2 hours to his cousin's house in St Louis, stay the night, and then drive to the airport. Sometimes he did not have to do that, though, and could just drive straight to the airport. It depended on what time his flight was. Barry always flew in business class. After all, he was a congressman, he could afford it. The ticket cost around $250 for him to fly one-way in it, and the flight took around 2 hours before it touched down in Washington DC. Barry insisted on none of the "fancy motorcade business", and was simply driven to his office by his chief-of-staff, Carol Clarke.

Barry only started conversing with his staff after he entered his office. He simply asked them "What's the plan, folks?"
"Well, we're currently focusing on your Federal Funds Act."
"Ah yes, are ya still gonna keep Section 3?"
"Sorta. We think the Republican Senate will certainly pass it, but the Democratic House would require it to be, at least tweaked, I think."
"How?"
Carol gave Barry the proposed draft of Section 3 of the Federal Funds Act, the edits she'd put in double parenthesis.

(1) The President may have the entirety of a state's federal funds cut by five percent if they —
(a) intentionally promote abortions or publish material with the intention of promoting abortions;
(b) promote the teaching in any school district under their full or partial jurisdiction of the acceptability of abortions as a normal or healthy alternative to contraception or abstinence.
[[ (2)Nothing in subsection (1) above shall be taken to prohibit the doing of anything for the purpose of treating or preventing the spread of disease or prevent a superindendent, headteacher or school board of a school district, or a teacher employed by a school district, from taking steps to prevent any form of sexual abuse of minors. ]]
(3) In any proceedings in connection with the application of this section a court shall draw such inferences as to the intention of the state as may reasonably be drawn from the evidence before it.

Barry looked at the amendment, and said "I don't want to water down this bill, but if it means it gets passed, then I'm okay with it. That's how politics works, you gotta make compromises, so you can go ahead."
Then there was frantic knocking at the door of Room 206, "come in!", Barry shouted.
"Sir, President Wolf's doing a speech on the TV!", it was one of his staff.
"Oh schute better turn it on then..."

by **Sanabel** » Sun Sep 15, 2019 3:25 am

Wolf Rally, Mobile Airport, Mobile, Alabama

Arnold Wolf was an angry man. His grandfather always said that he had a chip on his shoulder from the day he was born, and by God he wanted the world to know. Arnold Wolf was an excitable man. Whether he was in front of a jury or an audience at a rally, he knew how to please a crowd. Probably due to some craving for the peer approval he lacked as a boy. Arnold Wolf was a brave man. At least he liked to think so. He had done and said things in his life most wouldn’t dream of saying or doing. Damn the consequences.

But a sad man was one thing Arnold Wolf was not.

Things change when you know you have reached the end.

When President Wolf, the man who always dug in, the man who was stubborn as an ox decided to agree to a House budget agreement a mere few days prior that did not include funding for his pet projects, the press tapped away at their “expert analyses” on whether or not the President had a strategy. Pundits chattered on which advisor had his ear on this given occasion, and whether it was a pivot to the centre in preparation for his campaign. In reality, it was none of those. President Wolf was not being a strong or weak man, he was being just that- a man. A man coming to grips with emotions he had hardly felt, in the face of something he had hardly considered. The imminence of his own mortality.

Staffers scratched their heads at how to approach the situation. How does one give human comfort to a man reviled as a demon by half of the population, and adored as a lion by the other? Even Wolf’s own wife was baffled by the situation. He had been more focused on his career and his ego than he ever was on fostering an emotional bond with her. The spousal safety net, so to speak, was non-existent.

So, the accidental president was left alone after his diagnosis. He kept to himself, drifting from the West Wing to the Oval Office, stewing in his own thoughts. The real question, of course, was how the situation could be spun to his advantage. Or could it not? Was it the end of the line?

That was what scared him most. That there was no spin for brain cancer. Not for the media. Not for the American people. And certainly not for himself.

Even in a state of sadness and existential dread brought on by a doctor who was promptly fired, there was one thing President Wolf had to do. It was continue his rallies and continue to speak to the American people. Audiences always validated Wolf, they were his crutch. They gave him strength. And if there was one thing he needed at that point in time, it was to look strong.

The normal rally schedule that was maintained throughout the administration. It was probably the most consistent facet of the Wolf presidency. Coincidentally, on the evening of January 3rd, it returned him to a state that loved him, and would make him look strong, the state of Alabama.

Wolf’s rallies were his trademark. He crisscrossed the country both before and after his upset victory, turning out thousands to public spaces of all kinds. He turned out people of all walks of life, but most were slightly whiter and slightly older than average. Many were akin to the sort of hayseeds that gave him a rough time at his rural elementary school. His favorite type of rally was the kind he was doing that evening. It was the kind where he would park Air Force One in the middle of an airstrip somewhere, and the audience would gather before it, before Wolf. It made him feel strong with its dramatic aesthetic, just seemingly endless supporters below the almighty trinity of the imperial president under bright lights, a show of American military prowess, and the black of the night sky.

Usually, in the time leading up to a rally, Wolf was ecstatic. He talked at a mile per minute, practically shaking in anticipation, like an addict about to enjoy his fix. This time, he was sullen. He sat in his private office on Air Force One, and did not even watch the opening speeches. One was an Evangelical minister, the type that worshipped Wolf. The other was a Republican congressman from the area. The final one was a Senate candidate, one who everyone expected Wolf to endorse during his own speech.

For the first time, Wolf had to be reminded that it was his turn to take the podium.

“Mr. President? It’s time,” the young man said after knocking lightly on the office door.

For the first time, Wolf walked to the podium with tears welling up in the corners of his eyes. Tears that would not be seen by anyone, only felt by him, small tears against a hot face.

“WE WANT WOLF! WE WANT WOLF! WE WANT WOLF!” the crowd chanted, their words not coming from individuals but from the mob writ large, drifting into the brisk winter air.

By the time the President reached the podium, he was smiling and waving. The thoughts of death, and disease and despondence slipped away. At the podium, he was immortal. In the minds of the faceless members of the crowd, the sea of supporters, he was God.

“Alabama gave me a verrry big win, back in 2016. You know, it’s probably one of my favorite states. Absolutely filled with hard working, red blooded Americans. Americans that the Swamp Democrats like to brush away, pretend do not exist. Do they care about you? Eh?” Wolf smiled like the cheshire cat.

“I made a budget deal with the Democrats- it’s ok. It’s ok. The WALL will be built. I have been speaking with some of my top people, we are going to use our GREAT and POWERFUL military to build the wall. It’s a national security issue? Right? It’s an invasion. An invasion. Have you been down there? It’s an invasion. Farmers, everybody- they- it’s an invasion.”

“So we are going to build the wall. NAFTA is dead. We are renegotiating. Everybody in Washington tells me it’s going to be ratified. Even the Democrats realize that it was a bad deal for us. President Clifford. He did NAFTA. Funny how the Democrat Party does not defend him anymore. Guess they realized he was a bad guy, should’ve realized that before 2016. I would’ve won even if his criminal wife was not the nominee.”

Some far flung, eerily singular chants of “Lock her up!” broke out.

“Remember TPP? No one remembers TPP... TPP is DEAD! I killed it. Day one. Same with Paris... Paris Climate Agreement. Swamp Democrats were going to sell us down the river, you down the river...the false God of globalism. Everyone thanks me for getting rid of these deals, everyone. Even people who supported them before they say, ‘President Wolf, thank you for making America stronger.’”

“We are so much stronger. Im going to make a deal with China, they have been treating us so unfairly...Swamp Democrats let it happen. They just let it happen. Kim Jong Un, we are working out a deal with that guy. Good negotiator. Iran is afraid again, our military is stronger than EVER.”

“And the ECONOMY? BEST ON RECORD. Best since World War Two. Wow. What the hell was Baharia even doing? Fixed the economy in 15 minutes, that is what I did. Called the right people, made some cuts. TAX CUTS, that’s what fixed it for good. Next year some people say we are doing more cuts. I said- I said- ‘Yes we can do more cuts, I dont know if the American people want them though. They might want to keep paying!’”

The audience booed and chanted for cuts.

“Alright, we will do more cuts, we will do more cuts. Soon.”

‘Soon.’ That word hung in the air, as Wolf trailed off. What did that word mean? What did it mean to a man at the end of the line? Having gotten into his speech, Wolf was suddenly removed from it. Reminded of his mortality. Reminded of what he told himself he would do.

“God chose me to bring America back, to right the ship, to start making us great again.”

The audience cheered.

“God chose me to start, but he has decided I cannot finish it. I will die for my country. I will die making us stronger, bringing America to the top of the heap!”

The audience cheered even more.

Panic flashed behind Wolf’s eyes.

“Someone else has to finish what I started. We need a great man, another leader. Maybe Rick Tawney? I don't know. I need to see. There will be a primary. The socialist Democrats won’t beat us in 2020, I know that much!”

The audience cheered. The panic continued. Suddenly the lights looked brighter than usual. Suddenly Wolf could feel sweat between his palms and the podium. He reached into his pocket. And subtly pulled out a piece of paper. He laid it on the podium. Usually, he was unscripted or used a teleprompter. But on this occasion, he had to remain coherent. The short speech was written by his daughter, the only advisor he truly trusted. If he had it his way, he would run for re-election, damn the medical issues. But in his sorry, emotional state, he could not put up a fight. Cooler heads said that the president needed to make way for someone who could campaign. Someone who could win. Someone who could govern. As he could not properly do those for much longer, cooler heads prevailed.

“I am not running for President in 2020,” he read.

There were boos, gasps, and incoherent yelling from the audience.

“I was diagnosed with grade 3 brain cancer less than one week ago. Even with treatment, it will likely become grade 4 in a year. After that time, I will only have about 8 months left to live. If I were to run for re-election, it would not be fair to the country, to you, or to my family. Thank you, and God Bless the United States of America.”

The audience was silent, apart from gasps and sobs from his most ardent supporters.

The words went on. There was one more sentence that he opted against reading. Stuffing the paper back in his pocket, the President continued.

“God chose me to start making America Great Again, and in the primary, I will do his work by choosing someone to finish the job. In my office, they are already saying I’m a martyr. A martyr? I’m not gone yet! Some people call us the ‘Wolf Pack.’ So tacky. But if that is what we are, we are NOT DONE YET.”

There were cheers again. Strong, loud, voracious cheers.

“I could’ve been living the life, you know. Do you know how much I made on my radio show? Do you know how much Fox News anchors make? A lot. A lot. I chose to throw away my career to be president. Imagine that. Guys like Clifford and Baharia got rich after being president. I did not. But that’s what made me the greatest president God ever created.”

There were loud cheers from his most ardent supporters.

The tears were burning at his eyes again.

“I have work to do. Getting new tax cuts, building the wall, picking the next president. I have to get back to the White House. God bless the great state of Alabama, and God bless America!”

The rally was cut short. There would be anger over the lack of endorsement, but Wolf did not care. Cheers and applause continued. It used to rouse him, motivate him. Now it just felt hollow. It was as if his death was being cheered. His own supporters were the ones most excited for it.

Instead of feeling strong from the rally, he just felt disgusted.

by **Dentali** » Sun Sep 15, 2019 3:53 am

Governor Nathaniel Richardson
Raleigh, North Carolina

"Was this real?" Richardson thought to himself quietly while holding his wife's giving it a gentle squeeze watching the rally of Wolf.

“I was diagnosed with grade 3 brain cancer less than one week ago. Even with treatment, it will likely become grade 4 in a year. After that time, I will only have about 8 months left to live. If I were to run for re-election, it would not be fair to the country, to you, or to my family. Thank you, and God Bless the United States of America.”

"Oh my God" Amanda whispered returning the squeeze as the speech continued. They sat transfixed on the TV stunned and silent until he walked off the stage.

Then they shared a look, it was wordless exchange that true love and understanding enable. Amanda simply nodded with a steely expression and after several minutes said "I'll handle South Carolina, you handle New Hampshire. Give it 1 week and then we get a team together."

The two kissed one another, it was long and passionate, not in a sexual way but one that communicated they both understood what this was going to take from them. Then they split, parting to their respective offices. Over the next hours they compiled contact list from South Carolina and New Hampshire, party activists, local community and business leaders, party leaders, everyone they had come into contact with since they first decided 2 years ago to begin laying groundwork for a 2024 run.

Richardson had given a speech outside the state once a month for the past 8 years, the politics and eggs breakfast fairly recently in New Hampshire but overwhelmingly with fiscal conservative groups and college republican societies. He would go to a college, do a guest lecture and then spend the day with the members, giving candid advice and talking about his experiences. More than that he had their contact information, men and women passionate about politics and the Republican Party whom he had first hand interactions with, across the country.

None of this of course could launch today, it was just preliminary work so they could hit the ground running in a few weeks.

But first he had an obligation

TWITTER

Nathaniel Richardson
@GovernorRichardson

Amanda and I are shocked and saddened beyond words at this stunning announcement from President Wolf. I ask that everyone join us in prayer for the President, his family and for the country in this time.

by **Alozia** » Sun Sep 15, 2019 5:49 am

Number One Observatory Circle
Washington, D.C.
Richard George Tawney
January 3, 2019

A man in black suit stormed the Naval Observatory, his car hurriedly parked at the doorstep. Getting through Secret Service wasn't hard, the lack of his regular composure did not alert them. They knew him too well. They were surely yet to hear the news Daniel Burton, Vice President's Chief of Staff, was about to deliver to his patron. The two knew eachother well, having worked together for little over two decades Daniel was like family to Richard Tawney. He was there when his son died. He helped the family recover from that loss, loss that he himself felt very strongly - afterall George was like a brother to him. It was Daniel who broke the news about his son to Richard.

Now he had to be up to the task once again.

He was certain, very mistakenly, that Richard new about Wolf. He had to know, no matter how little influence he cared for holding. "Rick" Wolf called Tawney. He was the only one. Richard hated that nickname, Daniel knew that well. He sometimes wondered what would Wolf call Tawney had he ever gotten on his bad side. "That's pretty obvious." he thought to himself quickly ending that mental excercise. He opened the door and stepped into the hallways of the Naval Observatory. Burton knew the building pretty well, Richard even invited him to live with the family, but Daniel was forced to turn down his offer. He stepped into the living room to find the Second Family watching the news in shock. Richard didn't usually watch or care for Wolf's gibberish-filled rallies, but this one wasn't easy to miss. Richard turned towards Daniel, shock and surprise written on his face. In a split second every assumption Burton made about the situation was proven false.

"You didn't know..." Daniel said.

Richard shook his head in negative. "...No."

"We have to act quick." Daniel said, trying to get his thoughts in order. "Draft a statement, write a tweet, something."

"A simple tweet won't do it. It has to be a statement." Tawney replied. "We have to get the press ready."

"Are you sure you don't want to do it more privately? Publish it in social media?"

"No." Richard replied sternly. "It has to be done properly. Whatever comes after it is another thing."

"...After it?" Daniel asked. "Does that mean...?"

"I never wanted this." Richard pointed to the walls of the living room. "This house, this job... I never wanted it."

"I know." Daniel replied sympathetically.

Richard sighed. "I don't want to be President. I don't want to run, but there might be people who would like to see that. People who might feel like I have an obligation to do so."

Richard paused for a second, scared of voicing his next concern. "And what if he... you know?"

"Dies?"

Richard nodded in agreement.

"You'll do your duty and you'll do it well, I have no doubt about that."

"I'd like to share your optimism Daniel, I really would."

Richard scratched his temple. "There's a long night ahead of us. We need to start drafting a statement."

"Right away." Daniel added while pulling his phone out of his jacket. He had to get the VP's Press Secretary on this.

"...and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter."

Governor's Mansion
Olympia, Washington
Anne Murphy Caldwell
January 3, 2019

Mere hours have passed since her last child left the mansion, but her job made sure she wouldn't get much rest. Governor Anne Caldwell was back at work, mere days after Christmas and the New Year's. Surrounded by her close confidantes she was seated by the long dining table, looking through a pile of documents that were brought to her for review. Her staff were able to fit her animal shelter visit into her work schedule and while she was looking forward to the visit there were other things she had to take care of before embarking on her quest for a new family pet. Two hours have passed before she was able to finish the official part of her job. Staff streamed in and out of the mansion over the course of that time until she was left alone with only her most trusted advisors at her side.

"Now, about the other thing." she started. "How are we doing with the exploratory committee?"

"We're laying the ground work." her Chief of Staff replied. "We should be ready to start operations next week."

"That's good." she responded. "Do we know how we're standing with the poll--"

She was interrupted by one of the people in the room.

"You might want to see this, m'am." he handed her his phone.

Anne looked at the screen. A tweet from one of the mainstream media outlets just started reporting on the latest Wolf rally. She read the tweet once over to make sure she understood it correctly as the other people tried to find the TV remote in the living room.

Before Caldwell could say anything a familiar sound started playing on the TV.

"Someone else has to finish what I started."

The crowd cheered. They didn't understand what their leader was saying, not at first. Soon the festive nature of the event went away, replaced with grief and anger.

"I am not running for President in 2020..."

This was the clearest and most direct Wolf's been in a long while.

"This is real?" Anne asked. "Not a joke, not one of those Deep Fakes?"

"It's real." her Chief of Staff replied. "We should respond."

"How?" Anne asked still focused on the TV screen. Her focus was broken by one of the news anchors' appearance.

"Like Richardson?" One of the people asked. Anne was once again reading a tweet from somebody else's phone screen.

"I'm not the 'thoughts and prayers' type." Anne replied. "Not for Wolf."

Number One Observatory Circle
Washington, D.C.
Richard George Tawney
January 3, 2019

"So help me God."

The press were already gathered in the promply organized press conference room. Secret Service took their time to screen all members of the press, at the insistence of Tawney's staff who tried to buy as much time as possible in order to write a statement, but it did not come easily to the men working on it. Tawney, Burton and a couple other men gathered in Richard's study to draft a statement, all of them wishing they had been given a warning. "What a dick." one of the man said at one point. Richard could not vocally agree with him for political and ethical reasons, after all the "dick" was soon about to die from brain cancer, but Richard new where what the man said came from.

Caroline fixed Richard's red tie before he left his study with the hastily written speech in hand. Dressed in his darkest black suit he adjusted his flag pin before entering the press room. His face was as if made from stone. Deadly serious.

Office of the Vice President of the United States Richard G. Tawney
January 3, 2019

"My fellow Americans,

Today we recieved the extremly concerning news regarding President Wolf's physical condition. I would like the President and his family to know that I keep him in my prayers even more than usual, and ask the American people to do the same in this undoubtedly trying time for the President.

This Administration has faced numerous challenges in the past, but has overcome them time and again. I have no doubt that this administration will continue to stand strong and continue on delivering on it's duty to the American people.

The President's most recent statement has also had an enormous impact on me and my family. I am aware that in many American households a sense of grief and confusion is present. Many have hoped that President Wolf would continue his work for a second term. While he will not be able to do so, I am certain that the President will continue his hard work until the end of his term surrounded by his skilled, trusted adivsors. I will do my best to aid the President in his undertakings wherever and whenever he sees fit, just as I have done in the past.

I know that President Wolf has been framed as a polarising person with his agenda being opposed by people who would like to see him fail. This is why we, as American citizens, should put behind our partisian divides and unify behind the President in this time of trial.

Thank you, God bless you and God bless the United States of America."

Vice President of the United States,
Richard G. Tawney,
January 3, 2019

by **Yaruqo** » Sun Sep 15, 2019 6:18 am

Tim Larson
Washington, DC

Staring at the TV in his office, mouth agape, the Congressman from Philadelphia was shocked, while his staffers started pushing their way into his office from the vestibule just outside his door. "Sir, what should we do?" was the question they were all asking as he tapped his fingers on his desk in a brisk, monotone manner, almost as if one were tapping out a code. "Everyone, please, give me...give me a second." Larson stood from his desk and peered out of the window. He didn't get to snag a great office from the lottery that is done with each new session. His view was the other side of the Cannon House Office Building. In an attempt to make up for it, he had a vase of flowers sitting on the windowsill. This time they were an assortment of calypso orchids with sprigs of lavender, with deep purple hues and a fragrance that gave the Congressman a sense of calm.

"Alright...he's clearly not fit to remain in office. I'm not sure what his mental state was before this, but Stage 3 brain cancer...that's got to be affecting him in psychological and temperamental ways. I don't know who told him that he could stay on as President until after the 2020 election, but that person probably didn't think about the 25th Amendment. And if the President won't step down...we'll probably need to talk to the Speaker, though I imagine we won't be the only ones. Lauren, can you ask the Speaker's office if we should be expecting some instructions for the Democratic House caucus?" "Yes, sir, I'll send out an email now."

To: Office of Speaker Malcolm Douglas
From: Office of Congressman Timothy Larson
Subject: POTUS

To Whom It May Concern,

The Congressman is concerned that the POTUS is unfit to govern through the remainder of his term. He wants to know if the Speaker will be passing down instructions to the Democratic House Caucus on how to respond to this breaking news, and if we will be pursuing any course of action related to this breaking news. Please respond when you have a moment, I understand that it is about to be busier than usual. We stand at the ready.

Best Regards,

Lauren O'Neil
Chief of Staff - Congressman Timothy Larson

by **Uttland** » Sun Sep 15, 2019 6:31 am

Whitaker for America 2020 Exploratory Committee Headquarters, 12th Floor, 680 N Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL

committee

schadenfreude

Now

*click*

Helen K. Whitaker
@SecHelenWhitaker

My sympathies and condolences are with President Wolf and his family in light of recent events. Above partisan divides, we must reach beyond on things like these, and I hope for a speedy recovery.

by **Dentali** » Sun Sep 15, 2019 6:35 am

Yaruqo wrote:[b]

To: Office of Speaker Malcolm Douglas
From: Office of Congressman Timothy Larson
Subject: POTUS

To Whom It May Concern,

The Congressman is concerned that the POTUS is unfit to govern through the remainder of his term. He wants to know if the Speaker will be passing down instructions to the Democratic House Caucus on how to respond to this breaking news, and if we will be pursuing any course of action related to this breaking news. Please respond when you have a moment, I understand that it is about to be busier than usual. We stand at the ready.

Best Regards,

Lauren O'Neil
Chief of Staff - Congressman Timothy Larson

To: Office of Congressman Timothy Larson
From: Office of Speaker Malcolm Douglas
Subject: POTUS

To Timothy Larson

Leadership will certainly be meeting to discuss the matter. At minimum we will demand a clean bill of health regarding him mental fitness from a qualified medical professional, but such a measure must not be partisan. Further discussion should be conducted in person.

Best Regards,

Speaker Douglas

by **Vaquas** » Sun Sep 15, 2019 9:04 am

January 3, 2019
Greg Kost (R-FL)
Le Diplomate, Washington D.C.

Tearing apart a piece of bread with his bare hands, the United States Senator from Florida regarded the man on the other side of the table with resigned contempt. It wasn't lobbyists that Greg Kost had a problem with per se, it was the ones who thought that he could be bought with a nice dinner and a glass of red wine. Not one to be bought at all, Kost at least regarded those with the ability to subtly worm their way into positions of favor with some sort of respect, however misplaced it may be. This lovely fellow was from Tyson, saying something unimportant about some unimportant regulation as Kost's chief of staff, Jason Heikkinen, scribbled notes down in bright red pen. Kost and him had had several back and forths over that god-forsaken pen, but Jason was always insistent on keeping it, something about a running joke with unlimited stamina.

"- so Tyson believes the best way to tackle these inefficiencies is to slash the need for the "protection" in the first place." the greasy man finished, his hand reaching for the bottle of alcohol he'd paid for but that sat comfortably in front of the Senator. Kost let him take it, but replied, "I believe the best way to tackle the issues of our time is to do so without having our faculties impaired." The lobbyist, whose name was "Jared", let the bottle hang in the air for a moment before setting it back down in front of the Floridian.

"I've looked into Tyson's position before and I happen to agree with parts of it." Kost replied, earning a satisfied grin from the lobbyist before continuing, "I don't agree with Tyson trying to mislead me on what the favored bill would do to worker protections within their factories, and I don't agree that it was in Tyson's best interest to send someone who just go into this business to try and convince me that more workplace accidents are, as you likely inadvertently said in your opening spiel, 'actually a good thing'." he finished. Jared's face went red with embarrassment, his eyes darting to the brown-haired man beside him whose notepad was no longer being filled with red ink. "Are you looking over here for help buddy?" Jason said, "because you're not going to find it. Your bosses have been on our ass about this for the past year, and when they finally send someone in person they send you. We expect you to know what you're doing."

"Well I expected the Senator to be a bit more, uh hospitable." Jared replied, nearly mumbling and earning a raised eyebrow from the Florida politician. Kost was going to say something in response, but he was cut off by the sound of Jared's emergency phone. Set to max volume, several patrons of Le Diplomate turned towards the table in irritation, unaware of the sound's significance to the pair. Heikkinen answered swiftly and put the phone up to his ear, his eyes widening with surprise and his hand motioning for Kost to get up, startling the man who had seen his Chief of Staff this urgent looking only one time before.

"We've gotta go, shits hit the fan." he said, Kost following him out the door and leaving the lobbyist with 3 plates of food and a bill, his face turning to anger as he debated following the pair out of the restaurant.

"What's going on Jason, has there been an attack?" the Senator wondered quietly, so as to avoid drawing the attention of those around them. "No, Wolf has brain cancer, he's not running again and he's got a little under a couple of years to live. Told it straight to the crowd in Alabama during his rally, complete and utter shock." he reported, opening the passenger side door to Kost's convertible and allowing the Senator inside. "Jesus fucking Christ," Kost started, shocked and louder now, "are we sure, that's out of nowhere, you didn't get wind of this?" he pressed incredulously. "Negative, nobody on the hill had any clue, leadership is panicking already, not even Tawney knew, if what Amanda's telling me is true."

Kost pondered the implications of that. Wolf was a different breed, but what kind of President didn't even let the VP know he was abandoning ship, let alone that he's on death's door? Tawney was going to be furious, everyone in the beltway knew the man wasn't cut out for the Presidency...

Which meant this thing was wide open now.

"Get in touch with the- "

"Already on it sir, I'll have someone send out a statement, our hires can be on the ground in Iowa sooner rather than later."

Senator Greg Kost
@SenatorKost
I am shocked by the announcements made by President Wolf tonight. As the son of a cancer survivor, I know how devastating and horrific this disease is, and I will keep the President within my prayers moving forward. We must respect his decision to forgo a second term and support him in his pursuit of whatever treatment he deems fit. This is a trying time for our nation, and I hope all of us can unite behind a desire to see the Commander-In-Chief recover from nature's most malicious ailment.

by **Vaquas** » Sun Sep 15, 2019 9:19 am

Charlotte Windsor
@DemSenateLeader
President Wolf's announcement of his cancer diagnosis is deeply troubling. I wish for a speedy recovery, and we in the new congress, Democrats and Republicans, must examine how to proceed in light of this blindsiding development.

by **The Democratic Marxists** » Sun Sep 15, 2019 10:02 am

January 3rd, 2019
Abby Winthrop (D-MA)
Apartment In Navy Yards

Abby had been chilling with her Chinese takeout in front of the TV. Her teenage daughter was on her phone on the couch next to her, and her five-year old was asleep in her room. Abby's husband was out of town at an economic conference in California. So the apartment was sort of quiet.

Abby passively stared at the TV, having failed to make small talk with her daughter about school. The channel was tuned to the BBC; Abby couldn't stand mainstream American media, even though she used to work for them. That's when the incoming news hit.

"Breaking news: Arnold Wolf, the President of the United States, announced today at a political rally that he will not be seeking reelection in 2020, having been diagnosed with brain cancer.

It was a shocking announcement. After feeling a little sorry for the man, who Abby thought to be quite awful, questions started floating around in her head: Is he mentally fit to stay in office, can the veep be an appropriate replacement, this is a golden opportunity for the Dems, who's gonna step up...

"Oh my god. Mom, what the heck?" Abby's daughter had just seen the news on her phone, having not listened to the TV in front of her.

"Well, it's time for the obligatory tweet." Abby sighed and tweeted.

Abby Winthrop
@SenWinthrop
I am deeply sorry to hear of President' Wolf's diagnosis. Wish to send my condolences to the President and his family during what must be a difficult time. I think we can all agree that this diagnosis does not know what it’s up against. Wishing him all the best.

The President's announcement certainly complicated things. Dozens of Democrats were probably going to pounce at the opportunity this posed. The main question in Abby's mind was whether progressive goals could be accomplished under a mainstream Republican or Democrat. President Wolf was a populist conservative to a certain extent, and Abby had envisioned that with the right allies she could get him to consider at least some progressive bills. But if Wolf was forced to retire before the end of his term, the establishment hack that Rick Tawney was would block all of her priorities.

And then there was the question of the Democrats. The party had moved towards a progressive angle, but during this opportune time there was no way party leadership would be concerned about advancing progressive policy. These next few months would be all about political angling, dealmaking, and negotiation. Everyone on the Democratic side would be scuffling to gain more power for themselves.

And even if there was a policy discussion, the party leaders would probably not want to risk advocating for progressivism and as a result lose votes in 2020. Abby didn't subscribe to that view, but then again, she wasn't a Senate or House leader. Abby was also up for reelection in 2020, although no serious contenders had announced...yet. If this was a smooth ride to reelection, Abby could consider other options -- like seriously backing a candidate.

Who would carry the progressive banner? Who could she ally with? Abby had a lot of thinking to do.

by **Agarntrop** » Sun Sep 15, 2019 10:42 am

Room 260, Russell Senate Office Building
2 Constitution Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA
January 4th, 2019

Everyone looked at the news with shock and horror. The conservative saviour was terminally ill. Everything Barry had done with him, over. All the work had friendship, over. Everything they had done in terms of radical conservatism together, over. Barry's body was physically shaking violently. "Is this a dream?"
"I'm afraid not, Sir."
"Oh God, God no. This isn't meant to happen. Everything's fucked. Everything."
"Well, to continue his legacy this could be the chance for you to..."
"Yes. I'll be considering that."

Barry then took a taxi to his DC residence, and physically washed his mouth out with shampoo. He turned on the TV. Yes it was real, it certainly was. Barry smacked his face down on his bed and just lay there for 20 minutes straight. He then decided to pull himself together and decided to type an official statement on Twitter from his Windows 10 Laptop.

Barry Anderson
@MissouriPeople'sSenator
As a great freind and colleague of President Wolf, it has deeply disturbed and saddened me that he has been diagnosed with Stage 3 brain cancer. It is an evil disease and we should all send our condolences to the President's family.

by **Vaquas** » Sun Sep 15, 2019 10:56 am

The Associated Press

U.S. News
PRESIDENT WOLF REVEALS CANCER DIAGNOSIS, DECLINES 2020 BID

Wolf speaking to a crowd of loyal supporters in Mobile, Alabama shortly before revealing his diagnosis on January 3, 2019.

By Jonah P. Martin

As the 116th Congress was being sworn in, Arnold Wolf, the 45th President of the United States, was on a plane to Mobile, Alabama. Political observers and the White House alike did not mark anything unique about the rally in a state the President won by an overwhelming margin in 2016. The speech began with the typical bombast expected at a Wolf rally, with chants of "Lock her up", "Build the wall" and "4 more years" heard loudly and clearly from the assembled crowd as the Commander-In-Chief delivered his traditional jabs at "Swamp Democrats" and Presidents Clifford and Baharia. But as the night wore on, the President grew visibly shaken, and America was hit with a political bombshell.

Wolf Diagnosed with Brain Cancer, Prognosis of 20 Months

Wolf took the stage, ultimately, to announce that his diagnosis with Grade III – Anaplastic Astrocytoma, a severe and aggressive form of cancer, stating that it would be "unfair" to the American people to pursue a second term in office when, according to the President, he has exactly One Year and Eight Months to live. Grade III – Anaplastic Astrocytoma is "very likely" to worsen into a Grade IV Tumor, with survival rates low in cases where the afflicted areas are inoperable. Already many are questioning if the President is physically or mentally capable of continuing to hold the office of the Presidency, with the 25th Amendment being invoked by panelists on MSNBC and CNN within hours of his announcement. What becomes of the President is yet to be seen, but what is sure is that the halls of the capitol are abuzz with condolences and questions.

Foreign Leaders Express Surprise, Sympathy

Various world leaders have expressed shock at the President's announcement, issuing official statements or tweets in response. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada has described the development as "tragic and unexpected", stating that the people of Canada stand ready to receive President Wolf in the event that he "seeks treatment up north". Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has described Wolf's diagnosis and decision to decline reelection as "A great blow to the American and Israeli people", calling the Wolf Administration "The strongest ally Israel could possibly hope for." and "a guardian of world peace." Russian President Vladimir Putin described the events as "unfortunate", calling Wolf "a strong fighter" and wishing him a speedy recovery.

Perhaps the most unusual well wishes have come from Supreme Leader Kim-Jong-Un of North Korea. North Korean State Media has circulated a statement from the Supreme Leader calling the development "a concern" and indicating that the President is "being thought of fondly" by the Supreme Leader and his family.

As reaction across the world comes in, so does concern, and in Brussels some NATO officials have reportedly met without U.S. Representation to discuss the development. Tensions are high, and it remains to be seen if any nation will be brazen enough to take action in the face of change in America.

2020 Rumors Fly

In the aftermath of Wolf's announcement, pundits are scrambling to determine who will stand for the Republican nomination in 2020, with Vice President Tawney being an obvious choice for those who wish to continue Wolf's legacy. In his rally however, Wolf made it clear that he would not be immediately endorsing Tawney for the position, stating that "there will be a primary" and that he "does not know" if his running mate would be his choice for an endorsement. In DC, rumors are swirling about many Senators with plans for 2024 moving them up 4 years, with many staffers noting a large shift in the climate just days after the announcement. Following Wolf's controversial nomination in 2016, some speculate that another outsider, or even President Wolf's daughter, could take up the mantle of the party.

On the Democratic Side, many prospective 2020 Democrats, including former Illinois Governor and Baharia Secretary of State Helen Whitaker, have increased the size and scope of their organizing, with many sensing that a wide open 2020 could leave Democrats without a key piece of the electoral puzzle, opposition to a second Wolf term.

After this January surprise, expect the number of entrants into both the Republican and Democratic Primaries to skyrocket.

by **Dentali** » Sun Sep 15, 2019 11:09 am

TWITTER

Speaker Malcolm Douglas
@JerseyStrongSpeaker

I am shocked along with the rest of the nation at the announcement from the President, my thoughts and prayers are with him and his family

Senator Moore
@MooreMichigan

I will be the first to admit my history of harsh words for the President, I have made my opinion plain many times over. But tonight I wish to join all American regardless of party in prayer for our President, his family and all Americans.

by **Yaruqo** » Sun Sep 15, 2019 11:22 am

Dentali wrote:
To: Office of Congressman Timothy Larson
From: Office of Speaker Malcolm Douglas
Subject: POTUS

To Timothy Larson

Leadership will certainly be meeting to discuss the matter. At minimum we will demand a clean bill of health regarding him mental fitness from a qualified medical professional, but such a measure must not be partisan. Further discussion should be conducted in person.

Best Regards,

Speaker Douglas

Lauren O'Neil showed the email to her boss, who sighed. "Alright, we'll have to be careful with any statements between now and until the Leadership gives us some instructions regarding the President's capability to govern. For now...I don't know. I should feel sorry for him, but considering what he's done...I really don't. I mean, I wish it wasn't so horrible a thing to go through, but this was a long time coming. Let's hold off on a statement, for now. It doesn't feel honest, to be frank." "With respect, sir, that would be ill-advisable. Obviously, you come from a safe seat, but, it is expected to at least wish him the best. Anything less and you might end up on a GOP ad against a Pennsylvania Democrat. We shouldn't give them any ammunition, because that's exactly what they'll need while they flail around", Lauren countered. "So, I should lie and wish him good health?" "Yes, and just leave it at that. It's a new Congress, and if we want to be taken seriously in a new Majority, then we have to play the game a bit. It sucks, but that's what it is." Tim rolled his eyes a bit, "I hate when you're the voice of reason."

Tim Larson
@RepTimLarson

We are concerned regarding the news of the President's cancer diagnosis, and we hope for a speedy recovery. We will consider what further actions need to be taken, and we are committed to ensuring a smooth continuation of government as the Congress deliberates.

by **Dentali** » Sun Sep 15, 2019 12:05 pm

Jane Martinez
@SusanBMartinez

Dems like @RepTimLarson can't even wait a full five minutes after the President reveals a terminal condition before they start implying they want to remove him from power. Class act right there

by **Fronket** » Sun Sep 15, 2019 12:09 pm

Senator Ben Little (D-MD)
Russell Senate Office Building
Room 138

Senator Little took a sip of his whiskey and frowned. The new session had just been adjourned, and then this news had materialized. The President was standing down in 2020, which was bound to lead to a messy clusterfuck of cocky politicians vying to occupy the office.

Ben Little was, of course, one of them.

He'd called an emergency meeting with his Chief of Staff and his senior strategists. He wanted to go about this process in an orderly, organized manner. The same way he did it as state delegate, mayor, House member, and now Senator. Ben knew that he was a party favorite and that he would be a force to be reckoned with if he decided to go through with this. But it was imperative that there were no hitches along the way.

"Nancy, no one's announced yet, right? I mean, they'd be crazy to jump in this early."

"No, of course not. Secretary Whitaker will probably jump in, given she's formed an exploratory committee and all." His chief of staff responded.

"Right. But she's been out of the loop for a while, right? If she announces too early she might get lost in the crowd."

"Exactly," one of his aides said, "we don't want to get into this early. Her exploratory committee has been formed for a while now, we're expecting her to 'make a decision' by February. March at the latest. But we are not gonna be hasty. Our plan is to announce an exploratory committee by the end of this month, but instead constantly be in the headlines for your Senatorial leadership. Be the lead cosponsor on several bills; highlight your bipartisan nature; be loud and such. If they hear your name enough we could get you to be an early force in the polls."

"You don't think I'm the frontrunner?" Ben questioned.

His chief of staff laughed a bit. "Ben, you're certainly going to be recognized as the respected, qualified elderly statesman in the field. That will definitely be appreciated. But Whitaker will probably start with a substantial lead, given her robust staffing and fundraising capabilities. We have little to no hires right now."

Ben pondered the best course of action. "Are you hiring, then?"

"Yes sir. We're beefing up our staff, forming an Iowa team. But we'll be focusing on South Carolina. If we play our cards right, that will be an easy win for you. We've already looked at a few strong contenders as political operatives in South Carolina. Your job, Ben, is to get to work in the Senate. Get your name on tons of bills, talk a lot. Our PR guys will get you some media time. And, if all goes well, we can get you officially in the race by mid March. April at latest."

Ben nodded. "Ok, sounds like a plan. I think the first step is to conduct some polling. See where our standing is compared to Whitaker. Do a phone call poll, and also publish one on our social media. Just so we can see if there's a disparity of enthusiasm on both platforms, or whether there's vast support."

"On it, boss."

by **Cormactopia Prime** » Sun Sep 15, 2019 4:38 pm

January 3, 2019
Luke Hawthorne (R-OH)
212 Russell Senate Office Building

Senator Luke Hawthorne gazed out the window of his office, reflecting on the beginning of the new Congress. With the swearing in of the Senators elected last November, he was no longer a freshman Senator. Taking stock of the prior two years, Luke was restless. This wasn't where he expected to be by 2019. His Republican Senate colleagues had been indifferent to him, some downright unfriendly. As a result he hadn't gotten much in the way of a legislative agenda accomplished. He knew there were rumblings back home that he wasn't representing Ohio well in the Senate.

He took a sip of his caramel macchiato. "This isn't skim milk."

A young blond intern, he thought her name was Rachel, furrowed her brow. "I'm sorry, sir, did you ask for skim?"

"I always order skim," he snapped. "But it will have to do, I guess. Thank you."

After the intern had closed the door behind her, Luke's attention turned to his chief of staff. "What's next?"

Robert "Rocky" Fitzgerald had been with him as his chief of staff since his time in the House, but their friendship went back years longer to their time together in law school at OSU. Rocky was perhaps the only person in Washington, D.C. other than his wife whom Luke truly trusted.

"You got an e-mail from Senator Winthrop," Rocky said. "She wants to meet with you about sponsoring a bill together, tuition deferral programs at private colleges. The idea is to let students repay their tuition directly to colleges over a 20 year period so they'd be discouraged from taking out loans."

"Abby Winthrop? The Abby Winthrop?" Luke asked with a bemused smile. He took out his iPhone and navigated to his e-mail, quickly reading.

Rocky waited for Luke to finish reading. "I think it's a good idea. We've had trouble getting Republicans to work with us, and this gets you toward one of your goals -- less government meddling in higher education. With Winthrop as your partner on it there's no way it could look partisan."

"Right, right," Luke agreed. "And the two of us couldn't be more different, so we're talking about press attention. Maybe national."

"Definitely national," Rocky interjected.

"Abby Winthrop! I never thought I'd see the day," Luke said, chuckling. "I'll answer her e-mail myself. Clear my lunch schedule tomorrow for this."

As Rocky was about to leave the office, Luke added: "Oh, and fire that intern. Find me someone with an IQ high enough to order coffee."

TO: Abigail Winthrop
SUBJECT: Re: January 4th meeting on possible legislative partnership

Dear Senator Winthrop:

I couldn't agree more with getting an early start on advancing a bipartisan legislative agenda. Bipartisanship is important to my constituents and to me as well.

As you know, reducing student dependence on federally guaranteed student loans has long been a priority of mine, both here in the Senate and during my time in the House of Representatives. I would be happy to meet with you to discuss co-sponsoring the bill you mentioned. Tuition deferral is an innovative idea, one that doesn't rely on yet more government spending and intrusion into the higher education system. My hope is this will be the first of many new ideas Congress will consider to reduce student reliance on federal loans. I believe with the two of us working on this, it will finally bring bipartisan attention and pressure to bear on getting serious about reforming how we finance higher education. I'm glad to meet you for lunch to iron out the details.

Does noon tomorrow at The Monocle work for you? Looking forward to working together.

Regards,

Senator Luke Hawthorne
United States Senator from Ohio

The Land Of The Free: An American Political Roleplay (IC)

The Land Of The Free: An American Political Roleplay (IC)

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