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

[Greater Arab State]

“You have my assurances that I will mention that to the President when I next meet him and that I will be suggesting that the President also avoids any undue action within the Middle East.” Volker replied.

"I would advise that you inform him before the 4th of July, Congressman, because he must be made well aware that Congress - both bipartisanly and bicamerally - will not tolerate a war of aggression against Iran." She was firm in this before she relaxed. "What is it you wanted to discuss?"

“Well, I was hoping to discuss some legislation coming out of a Representative on my side of the aisle and see whether we might be able to agree on aspects for a bill.”

[Gordano and Lysandus]

“Well, I was hoping to discuss some legislation coming out of a Representative on my side of the aisle and see whether we might be able to agree on aspects for a bill.”

"You've always been willing to hear me out and I am willing to hear you out." She folded her arms, nodding. "Go on, what do you have for me?"

[Gordano and Lysandus]

Governor Jonah Prendergast Jr.
Washington, District of Columbia
Thursday 27th June, 2019

Faith and Freedom Coalition Luncheon

"Hello everyone! Good afternoon! It's so good to be here!

Looking out at everyone here, I am heartened by the warmth and conviction of you all. The dedication, the effort you have put into your fantastic cause. And the achievements they have wrought. Pro-life conservatives elected up down the country. A great President who has defended religious freedom and ended the Baharia-era doctrine of forced sin. Scores of new justices nominated and confirmed, cast from the mould of the great (not-Antonin Scalia) rather than leading the American people astray through judicial activism. These achievements are your legacy, and you should bear them with pride. You have done this despite the most vicious opposition, the most destructive obstruction by men like Malcolm Douglas and women like Charlotte Windsor! Well, it looks like as Senator Windsor steps down, the Christian faithful of America are still standing!

Part of what makes you so mighty, so important, is your willingness to fight. Your willingness to engage. That should be an inspiration, not just to those who lead - Presidents, Senators and Governors - but to those who wish to make change from the ground level. It is only by turning up, and putting in the work - good Christian work - that you earn reward, be it in politics, or in business, or in charity. Christian labor is the seed, and from that seed comes a great tree in which our children can find shelter, and our families can find fruit.

The Judeo-Christian foundation of the state is undeniable, and no matter how much liberals try to pervert the First Amendment, we must always remember that Jefferson's Wall was put in place to protect the faithful from the state, not to try to preserve the state from the righteous anger of the faithful! And we are angry! We are angry that thousands of children across these United States are denied their right to life! We are angry that the faithful are forced to contribute to abortion, and sexual profligacy, and to sin! Whilst the state might not know or acknowledge sin, the faithful do, and is it not a supreme act of violence by the state to force a Christian to sin? Whilst it does not draw blood or flesh from the body, it inflicts a grievous wound on the soul. God is gracious, and forgiving, but is it not still a torment to the Christian to be made to abide that which he knows the scriptures forbid?

As we have seen with the back and forth about cases like the Cramp case, and the Masterpiece case, there is an active battle ongoing in the heart of our nation. And whilst the issue of an aggressive lifestyle agenda is embroiled with it, and must be contested, the fundamental question is thus: does the state have the right to force a Christian, by coercion or economic threat or whatever, to sin? Will America's courts legitimize such an act of violence? And even then, I fear not merely for Justice Cramp or the owners of Masterpiece who have fought this in the open, but I pray for those who have been bullied into silent compliance with that sin. Who will provide them with salvation? Who will let our people go?

President Wolf's work has been considerable but it remains unfinished. Precedents of the Supreme Court, old and new, must be re-examined through that lens - is the state empowered to enforce sin? And we must not dare to rest our weary heads until we are sure that the plague of judicial legislators is driven from our Columbia. We saw this coming, of course, when we heard the news about the War on Christmas. President Baharia wishing us Happy Holidays. Christian monuments put under ever constant threat, despite the fact they commemorate our Judeo-Christian law system, or even the honored dead of our wars. The War on Christmas has evolved into a War on Christians. A War on Christ. Not merely on the person, or the religion, but the very fundamental values we hold dear, including - most notably - the value of human life.

Obergefell v. Hodges was wrongly decided - there is no explicit constitutional provision that somehow protects people who are committed to a lifestyle choice that we, and many others, know is inherently corrosive to society. I am eager and excited to see it fall. You know what else I'm eager to see fall? Roe v. Wade. How on God's Earth did we ever get a state of affairs where a court was ruling that we should snuff out the gift of life that God has given us in such an obscene manner? The good book is very clear that we need to respect life. John 10:10 recounts how Jesus said "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." How can it be that a good court, a just court, could choose to side with the thief rather than the Lord?

I'm 71 years old. I don't want to pass from God's Earth without the sureness of knowledge that someone is keeping those children safe. I think we can do it, I think we can end the evil of abortion in this country, and I think we can do a lot of other things to, if we work hard enough. We need to keep up the pressure. We need to keep up the March for Life. Just a couple of months ago, Wisconsin elected a conservative judge to their Supreme Court. I canvassed for the guy. Great guy. Let us build an unassailable political ark that will weather the flood of liberal disaster, and let life prosper when we come out of the darkness.

The work of the Faith and Freedom Coalition across the United States has been fantastic. You're fantastic people, and I'm so glad I've had the opportunity to speak with you. You are the warriors, the noble crusaders striding through the heathen land and bringing piety. Your bravery and advocacy is fantastic, and I feel richer as a person for having been among you. Wealth and power are immaterial next to the gifts of faith. Your righteous anger is powerful and good, and I only hope that those in Congress will open their ears and open their hearts to it.

Thank you for coming to hear me out, and God bless you all. God bless America!"

[Greater Arab State]

“Well, I was hoping to discuss some legislation coming out of a Representative on my side of the aisle and see whether we might be able to agree on aspects for a bill.”

"You've always been willing to hear me out and I am willing to hear you out." She folded her arms, nodding. "Go on, what do you have for me?"

“Well, the overall aim of the bill is a repeal of Dodd-Frank, which I realise would be troublesome for your Party to be able to agree to, however, I was hoping to see whether we could find some general agreement for a bill that worked on rolling back aspects of the bill, such as interchange fees and the Volcker rule.”

[Gordano and Lysandus]

“Well, the overall aim of the bill is a repeal of Dodd-Frank, which I realise would be troublesome for your Party to be able to agree to, however, I was hoping to see whether we could find some general agreement for a bill that worked on rolling back aspects of the bill, such as interchange fees and the Volcker rule.”

Caroline blinked somewhat. "Congressman, the President has torn away just about every protection for the stability of the economy that he can, the car loan industry is just as unstable now as the mortgage industry was before the 2007 crash, and you want to repeal Dodd-Frank? And even then, the two parts of Dodd-Frank you most want to unpick are... the Durbin Amendment, which reduces how much stores have to pay banks to process credit and debit cards, and the Volcker rule, which stops banks from playing the stock market with customer's money, which contributed to the crash. Could you explain your reasoning why? Beyond pleasing your donors?"

[The World Capitalist Confederation]

Porter Retail, Waterloo, Black Hawk County, Iowa

Porter knew that winning over Prendergast voters was a very weak use of his time; it was something to be left to the TV, radio and direct mail ads. One of his main concerns was turnout, turnout, turnout. His unorthodox campaign manager had convinced him of something: that his path to victory wasn't through persuasion alone, but through large GOTV efforts, particularly amongst the white working-class, who, despite being the largest group in the Republican Party and leaning towards "Porter Conservatism" as he called it, had much lower turnout than their college-educated moderate counterparts, and turnout was generally much lower in primaries than it was in the general. However, in Iowa, where there were open primaries, there were not only more opportunities for the majority-independent fringe base to turn out for him, but also the white working-class, who were also less likely to be registered.

He looked at the data and approved the plan. The first part of the plan was to visit Waterloo - a white working-class community, yet also one big enough to have a decent concentration of supporters so he wouldn't have to move around cities too much. His goals were: get out the votes of already registered and pro-Porter voters, increase enthusiasm of possible volunteers, decrease opponent enthusiasm to reduce turnout and volunteer pool and get people who are favourable registered. The main reason for him specifically being there was the second: he spoke at a meeting of local volunteers, numbering only about ten or so, giving a short speech about pushing ahead.

He had his campaign work out a formula for canvassing, involving both spreading out pamphlets and showing people their voting records. He had materials organised for getting people registered, getting them enthusiastic and getting existing voters to switch over or at least be less likely to vote for the opponent. He walked from door to door, spending about 10 minutes per voter, in order to cultivate conversations and encourage them to donate, to sign up and to volunteer. This certainly wasn't the most efficient way to campaign, but it was certainly one way to build up quiet support in Iowa, along with increasing his Twitter follows, his YouTube subscribers and other such metrics.

He kept on marching, finishing his time in Waterloo, ready to cover more ground in due course.

[Federal States of Xathuecia]

"Lucky" taunted Sullivan, smiling at her peer.

"Not particularly" she answered, shaking her head, "Lots of the progressives are not comfortable options. I may speak to Doyle though, I like that man. Who are you thinking of? To fill any of the positions I mean?"

"I think that you should seriously consider talking to Moore. He has impeccable progressive credentials. Elevating him sends a message to progressives that they have an important role to play in our party's future. He represents a swing state in the Midwest and is part of a group that is the heart of the Democratic Party"

"You're right on all those points, I intend to speak with him immediately. More generally, him, Moore I mean, and Senator Volek are my top picks for succeeding me, as the permanent Leader." she said, pausing before her next sentence.

"And, as for a more permanent and stronger Minority Whip, I'm glad you came to visit me. I actually believe you would make a great fit Sean. I mean, you're a strong negotiator, knowledgable on policy, experienced across the board, and well-liked. Something we need, so I would like for you to consider it. I could make you the interim-whip to feel it out, since our current one has been rather flat and they could follow Windsor, well, maybe not retirement but onto something else, clearing the path for your interim appointment. And proving yourself on the gun bill, the upcoming Iran sanctions bill, it would all make you a shoo-in to run for the more permanent Minority whip position, your choice of course.."

[Gordano and Lysandus]

PrenderPAC
California, Texas, Colorado, Alabama, Florida, Tennessee, South Carolina
Wednesday 27th June to Tuesday 2nd June, 2019

Cable TV ad (released nationally online) in the above states

The ad would be composed of clips from the CNN interview with Bernie Porter, interspersed with narration. The narrator would be a man with a deep voice, sounding authoritative.

Narrator: "Bernard Porter is pro-tax."

Callaghan: "Do you oppose the tax cuts that were brought into force by the Administration in which you served?"
Porter: "They were not a decision I would have made."

Narrator: "Bernard Porter is weak on China."

Clips would show of Will Callaghan having to ask Porter four times whether he would take action to defend Taiwan from the People's Republic of China, with selected clips of Porter looking as flustered as possible.

Narrator: "Bernard Porter wants to create a secret police."

Porter: "The NSA needs to do more, along with the FBI, and I will give them the authority and funding."

Narrator: "Bernard Porter does not believe in the policies of President Wolf."

Porter: "I have, as Secretary of Defence, chosen to comply with his commands. They were not choices I would have made."

Narrator: "Let's call him out for what he is. Bernard Porter is a socialist. Remember that when you vote in the Republican primaries next year."

Disclaimer: "This ad was brought to you by the PrenderPAC Special Political Action Committee. It was produced independently of and without the input of any candidate."

[Democratic Peoples republic of Kelvinsi]

Paulson's Office, Washington D.C

Daniel walked into the office of Dianne Paulson wearing a black suit and tie with nothing, in particular, standing out about him.

[The World Capitalist Confederation]

Porter, sitting in his car, phoned James Burgun on his office phone...

"Hello, Governor?"

[Democratic Peoples republic of Kelvinsi]

Porter, sitting in his car, phoned James Burgun on his office phone...

"Hello, Governor?"

A female voice answered the call.

"Hello who is this?"

[The World Capitalist Confederation]

Porter, sitting in his car, phoned James Burgun on his office phone...

"Hello, Governor?"

A female voice answered the call.

"Hello who is this?"

"This is former Secretary Porter. Is the Governor available?"

[Federal States of Xathuecia]

---

Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C.
June 28th, 2019

---

---

"Well, I guess if you have nothing to offer me right now, we can end this right here." replied Sullivan.

"Unless you have any other things you'd like to talk about Barry?"

[Federal States of Xathuecia]

---

Office of the Governor
Salt Lake City, Utah
June 30th

---

---

"Exactly. It's a losing strategy, no real long-term benefits come from following Wolfism blindly. We shouldn't even dignify it calling it Wolfism, it's downright radical populism just called patriotism to confuse the American voter." retorted Abernathy, chuckling after he said it.

"But we can't say that of course. And yes, I agree, policy discussions are far better than rhetorical stump speeches. But far less interesting for the majority of people. I can't say I'm not too interested in anything else you have to say at the moment about your policies. Do you intend to barnstorm Utah now?"

[Federal States of Xathuecia]

---

Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill
Washington, D.C.
July 1st, 2019

---

---

"Hello Mr. Donaldson, I've been good. I imagine you've also been doing well." responded Marty, chuckling.

"And please, call me Marty. And take a seat." added Spellman, going on, "We both really have surged since the debates...a rise of the outsiders no?"

[The Orion Islands]

Senator Colbert: “How is your husband holding up? Is he doing well?”

"He's certainly been doing better these last couple of weeks, mostly good days, I'd imagine that goes hand and hand with him being more like himself."

Senator Colbert: “I’m glad to hear that. I hope he is able to finish his term, for the good of America.”

[Democratic Peoples republic of Kelvinsi]

A female voice answered the call.

"Hello who is this?"

"This is former Secretary Porter. Is the Governor available?"

"Yes he is, he just got back from touring a meat packing plant. If you want sir, I can patch you to him. "

[Rijkenlandd]

"Well when you win 7 championships, the limelight will definitely follow you. And the heat, don't worry won't be too bad." Kevin said as he let Porter out.

"Flor-" Fans and papparazi would surround the men. Secret service would hold back fans and cameras from completely swarming them. Kevin would take a bit of time to sign whatever they wanted; autographs, die-cast car models, crew suits, whatever it was. Apparently the celebrity spotlight that he was put under during his career in NASCAR still travels to him this day.

Simultaneously, there would be fans surprised; "Oh my god, it's Porter!" As soon as the former Secretary of Defense and war hero stepped out, the flash photography intensified insanely. People would extend their hands in an attempt to get a handshake with them, get some of their stuff autographed or to have a conversation with them. Press would begin throwing questions at both men from different angles. Kevin simply ignored the press and, slowly making their way in, he'd autograph.

Porter smiled along, but didn't interact too much with the crowd. After the crowd was out of earshot, he continued talking to Kevin.

"I just came out of a rally, so just don't mind them."

"I love the fans. Engaging with them will give you a whole lotta clout." Kevin said as they made their way in.

Both would sit down at a burger bar and the manager would be there to personally serve them. "Hey Burt! Give him and I portobello burgers. As for drinks, I'll ask him."

"You drink, my man?" Kevin asked Bernard. The sports bar would be sounding in usual Saturday night commotion; games being broadcasted on the television and the most alpha of males and females coming together and having a good time. With 80's hard rock music being played, it was peak America. Kevin would slightly glance toward a wall where he'd see merchandise from his time as the one-and-only El Diablo in the #14 Lowes Chevrolet Camaro; from an autographed Diablo Motorsports shirt to a life-sized cut of Villalobos in his racing suit to an autographed picture of him winning his 5th Cup Championship in an insanely close finish against fellow Diablo Motorsports racer Kevin Harvick.

[New Cobastheia]

"He's certainly been doing better these last couple of weeks, mostly good days, I'd imagine that goes hand and hand with him being more like himself."

Senator Colbert: “I’m glad to hear that. I hope he is able to finish his term, for the good of America.”

"As do I Senator, as do I."

[Gordano and Lysandus]

"Have you talked to any of them yet?"

"Not as of yet. Volker wants a word soon but he's been militantly against House reform from the get-go."

[New Cobastheia]

"Have you talked to any of them yet?"

"Not as of yet. Volker wants a word soon but he's been militantly against House reform from the get-go."

"Sadly for him, he doesn't lead the majority of the House. And I'm sure there'll be at least some Republican voters for the bill, hell Dietrich might even be able to slap some sense into him for all I know."

[Gordano and Lysandus]

"Sadly for him, he doesn't lead the majority of the House. And I'm sure there'll be at least some Republican voters for the bill, hell Dietrich might even be able to slap some sense into him for all I know."

"I've been trying to canvass support for the bill. Diane Paulson might mobilize the libertarians for it but that won't count for much. I tried to twist Ruler's arm but he's got a stick up his ass about expanding Congress." She sighed, shaking her head. "I want this bill to pass. It sets the precedent that the political will is there for major reform. It'll get vetoed, of course, but that's the reality of this Presidency. But we need to set a high bar here. All the Senate Democrats should be on board. You've got Merriam, you've got Anderson. That's 50. Just need one more... one more."

[New Cobastheia]

"Sadly for him, he doesn't lead the majority of the House. And I'm sure there'll be at least some Republican voters for the bill, hell Dietrich might even be able to slap some sense into him for all I know."

"I've been trying to canvass support for the bill. Diane Paulson might mobilize the libertarians for it but that won't count for much. I tried to twist Ruler's arm but he's got a stick up his ass about expanding Congress." She sighed, shaking her head. "I want this bill to pass. It sets the precedent that the political will is there for major reform. It'll get vetoed, of course, but that's the reality of this Presidency. But we need to set a high bar here. All the Senate Democrats should be on board. You've got Merriam, you've got Anderson. That's 50. Just need one more... one more."

"I'll never forever Frankston for his last-minute de-sponsorship, and I'd say [Not-Collins] but given her recent actions that's probably a no go. Kost or Bragg maybe?"

[Gordano and Lysandus]

"I'll never forever Frankston for his last-minute de-sponsorship, and I'd say [Not-Collins] but given her recent actions that's probably a no go. Kost or Bragg maybe?"

"Have Merriam lean on them, they're more likely to respond to a fellow Republican. As for Frankston? I think he's honorable for the most part, I think Warrick probably told him he's out as Whip if he kept backing your bill. But he should have been up front with you rather than just run away."

[Bruke]

“There’s no need for it to turn into a family argument- Moore deserves a carrot rather than a stick. You said it yourself, he’s a competent progressive. Which is exactly why he may seek some other position in leadership.... it would be a real problem if he did and there was nothing available for him. Hopefully, he’ll want something else instead. As for me... I suppose you’re worried about my age.”

"True, but he's in a vulnerable seat. I'm not talking about coaxing the DNC into killing him, mind you, that'd be suicidal, but rather more telling him that there'd be problems if he were to attempt to enter leadership due to his precarious position. After all, the RNCC would be incentivised even further to have him removed. It'd be a humiliation, and one that they'd be willing to stage even if we gain the majority in the process. But yes, carrot rather than stick. So in terms of carrots...what can we feed him? Do you have any good committee seats you're willing to give up? Because I'm sure as hell not going to give up Ranking Member of Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs just to get Minority Whip. I mean, I could offer him the Energy, Natural Resources and Infrastructure seat, but I don't think he's going to go for that alone."

“I’m the Ranking Member for Environment and Public Works, and that’s my sole committee seat. If you’d could offer your other seat, I’ll come up with something else to offer him.”