Twilight's Last Gleaming: An American Political RP IC (Open)

[Hopal]

Email To: Congressman Greg Shields
Email From: Speaker Abilene Wilson-Carter
Re: Meeting on March 16, 2007

Dear Congressman,

I would like to meet with you in my office for dinner on March 16 regarding the upcoming primaries. I will be working overtime in my office for the next several nights to catch up on paperwork, but I ask that you arrive no later than 8 P.M. I'll be having chicken pot pie with a touch of key lime for dessert.

Sincerely,
A. Wilson-Carter

Greg came to Abliene's office at 7 at the dot. He talked to Abliene's secretary and when he came into Abliene's office he smiled, "Madam Speaker. Abilene, how've you been?"

[Yaruqo]

Representative Gunsley entered and took a seat, saying "Well, I'll be blunt with you. The country's going to hell, I mean, we got that Woolworth guy who's as conservative as you can get in the mainstream and he's still a Democrat! That guy must've come here from the 60's with a time machine, anyways, let's talk business. I know you want the JUSTICE Act to pass, and a Republican co-sponsoring will be the perfect opportunity to sway moderates to your side, especially as I am a moderate myself, a middle ground between [Not-Barry Goldwater] and Nelson Rockefeller, if you wanna use an analogy. Unfortunately I cannot support the bill in its current form, it's simply too partisan and I cannot in good faith support it. You're gonna need to slash some of its clauses to give it a chance of going to the big men in the Supreme Court, I myself would cut something like... The library and medical records part? And maybe change the date of enactment to something like 2 years after it's passed. Overall you're gonna need lots of bipartisan support for this bill to pass in my opinion.", having said his piece, Representative Gunsley looked to Representative Miller, awaiting a response.

Miller raised an eyebrow as he listened to Gunsley. When he was finished, Oliver began to respond. “Congressman, why do you want the federal government to access the medical records and library records of U.S. citizens that aren’t suspected of terrorism? Now, this bill does allow exemptions in the case of emergencies or urgent national security situations. But I fail to see how that particular section is…partisan, as you put it. Moreover, providing federal agencies a year to enact the necessary policy and procedural changes is not a radical proposal. It’s good governance, something that I thought your party stood for. I’m failing to see how these proposed changes could sway moderate Republicans to support this legislation, because let’s be clear, there are many moderate Democrats who also disagree with the overreach of the Cush Administration.”

[Meretica]

Email To: Congressman Greg Shields
Email From: Speaker Abilene Wilson-Carter
Re: Meeting on March 16, 2007

Dear Congressman,

I would like to meet with you in my office for dinner on March 16 regarding the upcoming primaries. I will be working overtime in my office for the next several nights to catch up on paperwork, but I ask that you arrive no later than 8 P.M. I'll be having chicken pot pie with a touch of key lime for dessert.

Sincerely,
A. Wilson-Carter

Greg came to Abilene's office at 7 at the dot. He talked to Abliene's secretary and when he came into Abliene's office he smiled, "Madam Speaker. Abilene, how've you been?"

Abilene was seated at her desk with two different pies-- one for dinner, one for dessert-- in front of her. Each had a knife sitting next to it with two pairs of forks and four plates set out. Two glasses of iced tea had already been poured.

"I'm alright, thank you-- very excited to see that Baker-Albescu flipped. How are you doing, Greg?"

[Hopal]

Greg came to Abilene's office at 7 at the dot. He talked to Abliene's secretary and when he came into Abliene's office he smiled, "Madam Speaker. Abilene, how've you been?"

Abilene was seated at her desk with two different pies-- one for dinner, one for dessert-- in front of her. Each had a knife sitting next to it with two pairs of forks and four plates set out. Two glasses of iced tea had already been poured.

"I'm alright, thank you-- very excited to see that Baker-Albescu flipped. How are you doing, Greg?"

Greg smiled, "Yes some very good news for us, though I don't know how long we'll be able to hold onto that seat. Let's hope that Baker-Albescu has it in him to fight and retain it. I'm good though, power is a sweet little thing, and Ellen and Diane are doing well. I can't remember a happier time in my life, other than the late 70s when I got married, elected to the State Legislature, had Diane, and was elected to Congress. So you could say this the second-happiest time in my life."

[Meretica]

Abilene was seated at her desk with two different pies-- one for dinner, one for dessert-- in front of her. Each had a knife sitting next to it with two pairs of forks and four plates set out. Two glasses of iced tea had already been poured.

"I'm alright, thank you-- very excited to see that Baker-Albescu flipped. How are you doing, Greg?"

Greg smiled, "Yes some very good news for us, though I don't know how long we'll be able to hold onto that seat. Let's hope that Baker-Albescu has it in him to fight and retain it. I'm good though, power is a sweet little thing, and Ellen and Diane are doing well. I can't remember a happier time in my life, other than the late 70s when I got married, elected to the State Legislature, had Diane, and was elected to Congress. So you could say this is the second-happiest time in my life."

"I understand that feeling," Abilene said with a smile, already cutting into the pot pie to dish it out. "Please, take a seat." As she doled out the food, she took a deep breath, formulating her final thoughts very briefly. She pushed a plate of chicken pot pie his way and took a nibble of her own before she spoke. "Has anyone caught your eye for the primaries on either side?"

[Hopal]

Greg smiled, "Yes some very good news for us, though I don't know how long we'll be able to hold onto that seat. Let's hope that Baker-Albescu has it in him to fight and retain it. I'm good though, power is a sweet little thing, and Ellen and Diane are doing well. I can't remember a happier time in my life, other than the late 70s when I got married, elected to the State Legislature, had Diane, and was elected to Congress. So you could say this is the second-happiest time in my life."

"I understand that feeling," Abilene said with a smile, already cutting into the pot pie to dish it out. "Please, take a seat." As she doled out the food, she took a deep breath, formulating her final thoughts very briefly. She pushed a plate of chicken pot pie his way and took a nibble of her own before she spoke. "Has anyone caught your eye for the primaries on either side?"

Greg took his seat and smiled, "Well it's still a bit early in the race, and I'm not sold on anyone yet. But I like what I'm seeing from Martel, I know her, we're from the same state after all, and our families are pretty close. But she's a solid campaigner, with lots of experience, and a solid liberal. I think she can carry the Democratic banner, and carry it well. It goes without saying that I don't like Woolworth, and I'd do anything to keep him away from the nomination. I don't he'll go very far, but his success so far is startling. I don't the idea of Tripp Baylor. That leaves us with Upton Robert Fleming, who's a bit of a wild card for me, he hasn't proven himself yet, and I need to see more to form a solid opinion. But he's young and energetic, which could be huge for us, he could be the next Jack Kennedy, but his youth and inexperience could cost us, he could be the next [not-Dan Quayle]. But what about you, what do you think?"

[Meretica]

Note: Credit to Bill Clinton’s campaign announcement, the John McCain campaign, and Mitt Romney for speech inspiration and decisions on where Cassie stands on the issues.

Richmond, Virginia
Outside of Senator Hepburn-Smith's Home

“Ladies and gentlemen,” began an aide, “I have the high honor and the great privilege of introducing Glenn Hepburn-Smith, Angela Hepburn-Smith, and our beloved Senator– the next President of the United States– Cassie Hepburn-Smith!”

The crowd began to applaud and cheer, many already waving high the “Cassie for President” and “Capable☆Competent☆Cassie” signs. After the cheering had died down, Cassie smiled and took a deep breath, taking in that she was the first major female candidate entering the presidential race from either side of the aisle in years.

“Thank you!” she began. “I want to thank all of you for being here today. I want to thank those of you that have been my friends for these past 65 years. I want to thank those of you that supported me when I ran for Attorney General in 1997 and 2001. And thanks to all of you that voted for me in 2002 when I ran for Senate so that the people of Virginia could have a new, clear voice in Congress. You have allowed me to serve this state faithfully and loyally for the past 11 years. You have filled my life with greater blessings than I could ever deserve. I’d also like to thank my husband and daughter– Glenn, Angela– for taking this big step on our life’s journey together. They are the lights of my life, and I would not be the woman I am today without them.”

Cassie led some light applause as she turned to her right and nodded to them both. After a moment, she subsided and turned back to the people of Virginia, hoping, possibly praying, that her message would excite them and resonate with the masses, giving her a better shot at claiming the nomination. (In theory, at least.)

“We’ve begun another campaign season earlier than many Americans prefer. So soon after our last contentious election, our differences are again sure to be sharpened and exaggerated. That’s the nature of free elections. But even in the heat of a campaign, we shouldn’t lose sight that much more defines us than our partisanship; much more unites us than divides us. We have common purposes and common challenges, and we live in momentous times. This election should be about big things, not small ones. Ours are not red state or blue state problems. They are national and global. Half measures and small-minded politics are inadequate to the present occasion. We can’t muddle through the next four years, bickering among ourselves, and leave to others the work that is ours to do. Greatness is America’s destiny, but no nation complacent in its greatness can long sustain it.

“We’re fighting wars, literal and metaphorical. Abroad, we combat terrorism and the Iraqis. At home, we combat poverty, illness, a lack of education, energy issues, and much more. Now, more than ever, Americans want competence in their government. They want someone that knows what they’re doing. They want someone that understands their issues and can find a way to move forward, unify the country, and lead us into tomorrow. Americans wouldn’t accept incompetence in communication between their policemen and their firemen; I see no reason why the same shouldn’t be true of the president of the United States.

“Our dependence on foreign energy drives up prices, hurts our economy, and kills American jobs. That’s not good enough for America, and it’s not good enough for me.

“Social Security and Medicare are losing money because more people are retiring than are entering the workforce while the government does nothing except raising taxes for new programs instead of funding the ones we already have. That’s not good enough for America, and it’s not good enough for me.

“Prices for medicines that treat hypertension, diabetes, and asthma are skyrocketing. People skip medications or refuse to go to the doctor because they can’t pay for them. That’s not good enough for America, and that’s not good enough for me.

“Our schools are underfunded, and No Child Left Behind lacks the funding it needs to be fully effective. College prices have risen to extreme heights in the past several years, and students lack the mental equipment to be civically-engaged and productive citizens without additional education. That’s not good enough for America, and that’s not good enough for me.

“In Iraq, we have failed to outright destroy our enemies to secure the freedoms of America, all the while failing to capture Osama bin Laden. That’s not good enough for America, and it’s not good enough for me.

“But I have a plan. I have a plan to put America back on track– to return us to be being first in energy independence, healthcare, education, and so much more. We’re going to cut the programs that don’t work and divide that money between funding what programs we already have and giving the poor and middle-classes a well-deserved tax cut. We’re going to expand the Tennessee Valley Authority to cover more states and bring down costs for people on both sides of the Mississippi and Mason-Dixon. We're going to place price ceilings on drugs that people need to get by in their day-to-day lives. We’re going to catch bin Laden and win the War on Terror and the Iraq War. We’re going to embrace optimism, not nostalgia, and build a path into a new future, a brighter future, a future that all Americans can believe in. We’re going to Bring Americans Together Again; we’re going to run a campaign not just to be a bunch of somebodies, we want to run a campaign so that we can do something about all the issues that America faces today.

“Thank you, God bless you, and God bless these United States!”

Cassie waved to the crowd and shook several hands before she turned towards her care, followed by her family. The cheering supporters are reporters were held together

"You did very well," her husband said.

"Thank you." Cassie turned her head to her daughter. "We'll drop you off at Marcie's, as promised, and we'll call when we get to Iowa."

"Good," Angela said. "I'd hate to have to wait until a rally started to know you were alive."

The family grinned and chit-chatted all the way to Marcie's-- a friend of Angela's-- before the presidential hopeful and her husband left Richmond International for Iowa.

---

Des Moines, Iowa
Cassie's First Town Hall

“Ladies and gentlemen of the great state of Iowa, it is my honor to introduce you to… Senator Cassie Hepburn-Smith!” one of the volunteers ecstatically called as he introduced CHS.

Cassie excitedly speed-walked up the small stage and waved to the hundred or so people that had turned out for her first town hall. She took a microphone into her hand and, turning to the crowd, she said, “Good afternoon, Des Moines! How are you doing?” There were a few cheers, and some attempted legitimate replies, but most clapped. “This is the first town hall that I’ll be holding as we try to take on every single state in this election. No state is unwinnable, no state is too far gone. Iowa is going to help us prove this. I’m here today to answer your questions and hear about what concerns you have about the issues facing America today.” She paused and motioned to a few local volunteers, who stood at several places around the room. “Go to one of these bright young men and women. Talk to me. No issue is off-limits. To say otherwise would be to ignore the concerns of the American people.”

Around a dozen people or so moved to line up with the volunteers. The first inquisitive citizen was an older teenager, well-dressed with good form. “Good afternoon, Governor,” he began, voice a little shaky and broken. “My question to you is this: Do you think that you have any chance at winning the nomination, or are you a protest candidate? A lot of folks see you as too liberal to win.”

"Thank you for the question-- what's your name?"

"Edward, ma'am."

"Alright. Thank you for the question, Edward. It's a good one, and a very fair one. I wouldn't be running if I thought that I wouldn't win. My campaign represents middle America-- the Americans that don't fall into either the Liberal Left or Conservative Right-- and wants someone in between to serve America as their president. We've seen competence in Congress and the White House these past few months, and I want to rectify that. Both parties forget sometimes that they're making decisions for people that don't always agree with them, and I want to fix that. We need to bring a new era of bipartisanship to 1400 Pennsylvania Avenue that we've not seen in a long time. Thank you for your question, Edward."

She looked to the next person.

"What's your name and your question, please?"

[Melovinta]

Gunsley responded, saying "Those are simply things I proposed cutting from the bill, the choice is ultimately yours on what to get rid of, and I am one of the main moderate Republicans in Congress, getting a Republican to even speak favorably the bill would draw alot of attention to it and help gather public support for it. You could help sway Democrats to support the bill while I rail against the PATRIOT Act to the Republicans, you have little to lose as all you have to do is trim a bit of fat off of the bill in exchange for a Republican co-sponsoring it.", Rep. Gunsley finished, awaiting a response.

[Dentali]

Note: Credit to Bill Clinton’s campaign announcement, the John McCain campaign, and Mitt Romney for speech inspiration and decisions on where Cassie stands on the issues.

Richmond, Virginia
Outside of Senator Hepburn-Smith's Home

“Ladies and gentlemen,” began an aide, “I have the high honor and the great privilege of introducing Glenn Hepburn-Smith, Angela Hepburn-Smith, and our beloved Senator– the next President of the United States– Cassie Hepburn-Smith!”

The crowd began to applaud and cheer, many already waving high the “Cassie for President” and “Capable☆Competent☆Cassie” signs. After the cheering had died down, Cassie smiled and took a deep breath, taking in that she was the first major female candidate entering the presidential race from either side of the aisle in years.

“Thank you!” she began. “I want to thank all of you for being here today. I want to thank those of you that have been my friends for these past 65 years. I want to thank those of you that supported me when I ran for Attorney General in 1997 and 2001. And thanks to all of you that voted for me in 2002 when I ran for Senate so that the people of Virginia could have a new, clear voice in Congress. You have allowed me to serve this state faithfully and loyally for the past 11 years. You have filled my life with greater blessings than I could ever deserve. I’d also like to thank my husband and daughter– Glenn, Angela– for taking this big step on our life’s journey together. They are the lights of my life, and I would not be the woman I am today without them.”

Cassie led some light applause as she turned to her right and nodded to them both. After a moment, she subsided and turned back to the people of Virginia, hoping, possibly praying, that her message would excite them and resonate with the masses, giving her a better shot at claiming the nomination. (In theory, at least.)

“We’ve begun another campaign season earlier than many Americans prefer. So soon after our last contentious election, our differences are again sure to be sharpened and exaggerated. That’s the nature of free elections. But even in the heat of a campaign, we shouldn’t lose sight that much more defines us than our partisanship; much more unites us than divides us. We have common purposes and common challenges, and we live in momentous times. This election should be about big things, not small ones. Ours are not red state or blue state problems. They are national and global. Half measures and small-minded politics are inadequate to the present occasion. We can’t muddle through the next four years, bickering among ourselves, and leave to others the work that is ours to do. Greatness is America’s destiny, but no nation complacent in its greatness can long sustain it.

“We’re fighting wars, literal and metaphorical. Abroad, we combat terrorism and the Iraqis. At home, we combat poverty, illness, a lack of education, energy issues, and much more. Now, more than ever, Americans want competence in their government. They want someone that knows what they’re doing. They want someone that understands their issues and can find a way to move forward, unify the country, and lead us into tomorrow. Americans wouldn’t accept incompetence in communication between their policemen and their firemen; I see no reason why the same shouldn’t be true of the president of the United States.

“Our dependence on foreign energy drives up prices, hurts our economy, and kills American jobs. That’s not good enough for America, and it’s not good enough for me.

“Social Security and Medicare are losing money because more people are retiring than are entering the workforce while the government does nothing except raising taxes for new programs instead of funding the ones we already have. That’s not good enough for America, and it’s not good enough for me.

“Prices for medicines that treat hypertension, diabetes, and asthma are skyrocketing. People skip medications or refuse to go to the doctor because they can’t pay for them. That’s not good enough for America, and that’s not good enough for me.

“Our schools are underfunded, and No Child Left Behind lacks the funding it needs to be fully effective. College prices have risen to extreme heights in the past several years, and students lack the mental equipment to be civically-engaged and productive citizens without additional education. That’s not good enough for America, and that’s not good enough for me.

“In Iraq, we have failed to outright destroy our enemies to secure the freedoms of America, all the while failing to capture Osama bin Laden. That’s not good enough for America, and it’s not good enough for me.

“But I have a plan. I have a plan to put America back on track– to return us to be being first in energy independence, healthcare, education, and so much more. We’re going to cut the programs that don’t work and divide that money between funding what programs we already have and giving the poor and middle-classes a well-deserved tax cut. We’re going to expand the Tennessee Valley Authority to cover more states and bring down costs for people on both sides of the Mississippi and Mason-Dixon. We're going to place price ceilings on drugs that people need to get by in their day-to-day lives. We’re going to catch bin Laden and win the War on Terror and the Iraq War. We’re going to embrace optimism, not nostalgia, and build a path into a new future, a brighter future, a future that all Americans can believe in. We’re going to Bring Americans Together Again; we’re going to run a campaign not just to be a bunch of somebodies, we want to run a campaign so that we can do something about all the issues that America faces today.

“Thank you, God bless you, and God bless these United States!”

Cassie waved to the crowd and shook several hands before she turned towards her care, followed by her family. The cheering supporters are reporters were held together

"You did very well," her husband said.

"Thank you." Cassie turned her head to her daughter. "We'll drop you off at Marcie's, as promised, and we'll call when we get to Iowa."

"Good," Angela said. "I'd hate to have to wait until a rally started to know you were alive."

The family grinned and chit-chatted all the way to Marcie's-- a friend of Angela's-- before the presidential hopeful and her husband left Richmond International for Iowa.

---

Des Moines, Iowa
Cassie's First Town Hall

(Image)

“Ladies and gentlemen of the great state of Iowa, it is my honor to introduce you to… Senator Cassie Hepburn-Smith!” one of the volunteers ecstatically called as he introduced CHS.

Cassie excitedly speed-walked up the small stage and waved to the hundred or so people that had turned out for her first town hall. She took a microphone into her hand and, turning to the crowd, she said, “Good afternoon, Des Moines! How are you doing?” There were a few cheers, and some attempted legitimate replies, but most clapped. “This is the first town hall that I’ll be holding as we try to take on every single state in this election. No state is unwinnable, no state is too far gone. Iowa is going to help us prove this. I’m here today to answer your questions and hear about what concerns you have about the issues facing America today.” She paused and motioned to a few local volunteers, who stood at several places around the room. “Go to one of these bright young men and women. Talk to me. No issue is off-limits. To say otherwise would be to ignore the concerns of the American people.”

Around a dozen people or so moved to line up with the volunteers. The first inquisitive citizen was an older teenager, well-dressed with good form. “Good afternoon, Governor,” he began, voice a little shaky and broken. “My question to you is this: Do you think that you have any chance at winning the nomination, or are you a protest candidate? A lot of folks see you as too liberal to win.”

"Thank you for the question-- what's your name?"

"Edward, ma'am."

"Alright. Thank you for the question, Edward. It's a good one, and a very fair one. I wouldn't be running if I thought that I wouldn't win. My campaign represents middle America-- the Americans that don't fall into either the Liberal Left or Conservative Right-- and wants someone in between to serve America as their president. We've seen competence in Congress and the White House these past few months, and I want to rectify that. Both parties forget sometimes that they're making decisions for people that don't always agree with them, and I want to fix that. We need to bring a new era of bipartisanship to 1400 Pennsylvania Avenue that we've not seen in a long time. Thank you for your question, Edward."

She looked to the next person.

"What's your name and your question, please?"

A red headed woman stands “My husband is currently serving in Iraq. I want to know with your administration when are he and our other soldiers going to be coming home?”

[Dentali]

“Honestly not much” Senator Pierce said “many in the beltway and on K street believe this campaign is a stunt or has a snowballs chance in hell… frankly most people don’t take you seriously… why should I?”

J.J. laughed. "Thanks for your candor, Senator Pierce. I'm not surprised the party doesn't take me seriously. All things considered I have a record slimmer than a barbie doll, Mayor of Baltimore then a pundit who hasn't negotiated with donors in twenty years and doesn't remember how campaigns are supposed to work. But I think that the message is something that surpasses the messenger — because since both parties became "neo-something", exporting jobs and importing political instability from the Middle East, the common people have been getting more and more fucked over — excuse my language, it's a habit — and more and more pissed at the establishment. Or, if they're not pissed at the establishment yet, they will be when I'm done. Their labor unions, that fight for their working rights, are spineless corporate golf buddies if they exist at all. Their politicians remove themselves more and more from the real world by buying stocks on vacation and making worthless speeches. Apathy is rising, and discontentment is too. People are just done. The DNC and the GOP have tossed the shoe in the air, and when it drops I'll win the election. I'm banking on the working class, the largest constituency in the US."

J.J. took a deep breath and gulped down some water so he could cook up more bullshit for Senator Pierce's ears.

“That’s a good sentiment” Pierce said after a pause “okay you’re in the White House. Do you think you can really command a governing coalition with that attitude?”

[Meretica]

Note: Credit to Bill Clinton’s campaign announcement, the John McCain campaign, and Mitt Romney for speech inspiration and decisions on where Cassie stands on the issues.

Richmond, Virginia
Outside of Senator Hepburn-Smith's Home

“Ladies and gentlemen,” began an aide, “I have the high honor and the great privilege of introducing Glenn Hepburn-Smith, Angela Hepburn-Smith, and our beloved Senator– the next President of the United States– Cassie Hepburn-Smith!”

The crowd began to applaud and cheer, many already waving high the “Cassie for President” and “Capable☆Competent☆Cassie” signs. After the cheering had died down, Cassie smiled and took a deep breath, taking in that she was the first major female candidate entering the presidential race from either side of the aisle in years.

“Thank you!” she began. “I want to thank all of you for being here today. I want to thank those of you that have been my friends for these past 65 years. I want to thank those of you that supported me when I ran for Attorney General in 1997 and 2001. And thanks to all of you that voted for me in 2002 when I ran for Senate so that the people of Virginia could have a new, clear voice in Congress. You have allowed me to serve this state faithfully and loyally for the past 11 years. You have filled my life with greater blessings than I could ever deserve. I’d also like to thank my husband and daughter– Glenn, Angela– for taking this big step on our life’s journey together. They are the lights of my life, and I would not be the woman I am today without them.”

Cassie led some light applause as she turned to her right and nodded to them both. After a moment, she subsided and turned back to the people of Virginia, hoping, possibly praying, that her message would excite them and resonate with the masses, giving her a better shot at claiming the nomination. (In theory, at least.)

“We’ve begun another campaign season earlier than many Americans prefer. So soon after our last contentious election, our differences are again sure to be sharpened and exaggerated. That’s the nature of free elections. But even in the heat of a campaign, we shouldn’t lose sight that much more defines us than our partisanship; much more unites us than divides us. We have common purposes and common challenges, and we live in momentous times. This election should be about big things, not small ones. Ours are not red state or blue state problems. They are national and global. Half measures and small-minded politics are inadequate to the present occasion. We can’t muddle through the next four years, bickering among ourselves, and leave to others the work that is ours to do. Greatness is America’s destiny, but no nation complacent in its greatness can long sustain it.

“We’re fighting wars, literal and metaphorical. Abroad, we combat terrorism and the Iraqis. At home, we combat poverty, illness, a lack of education, energy issues, and much more. Now, more than ever, Americans want competence in their government. They want someone that knows what they’re doing. They want someone that understands their issues and can find a way to move forward, unify the country, and lead us into tomorrow. Americans wouldn’t accept incompetence in communication between their policemen and their firemen; I see no reason why the same shouldn’t be true of the president of the United States.

“Our dependence on foreign energy drives up prices, hurts our economy, and kills American jobs. That’s not good enough for America, and it’s not good enough for me.

“Social Security and Medicare are losing money because more people are retiring than are entering the workforce while the government does nothing except raising taxes for new programs instead of funding the ones we already have. That’s not good enough for America, and it’s not good enough for me.

“Prices for medicines that treat hypertension, diabetes, and asthma are skyrocketing. People skip medications or refuse to go to the doctor because they can’t pay for them. That’s not good enough for America, and that’s not good enough for me.

“Our schools are underfunded, and No Child Left Behind lacks the funding it needs to be fully effective. College prices have risen to extreme heights in the past several years, and students lack the mental equipment to be civically-engaged and productive citizens without additional education. That’s not good enough for America, and that’s not good enough for me.

“In Iraq, we have failed to outright destroy our enemies to secure the freedoms of America, all the while failing to capture Osama bin Laden. That’s not good enough for America, and it’s not good enough for me.

“But I have a plan. I have a plan to put America back on track– to return us to be being first in energy independence, healthcare, education, and so much more. We’re going to cut the programs that don’t work and divide that money between funding what programs we already have and giving the poor and middle-classes a well-deserved tax cut. We’re going to expand the Tennessee Valley Authority to cover more states and bring down costs for people on both sides of the Mississippi and Mason-Dixon. We're going to place price ceilings on drugs that people need to get by in their day-to-day lives. We’re going to catch bin Laden and win the War on Terror and the Iraq War. We’re going to embrace optimism, not nostalgia, and build a path into a new future, a brighter future, a future that all Americans can believe in. We’re going to Bring Americans Together Again; we’re going to run a campaign not just to be a bunch of somebodies, we want to run a campaign so that we can do something about all the issues that America faces today.

“Thank you, God bless you, and God bless these United States!”

Cassie waved to the crowd and shook several hands before she turned towards her care, followed by her family. The cheering supporters are reporters were held together

"You did very well," her husband said.

"Thank you." Cassie turned her head to her daughter. "We'll drop you off at Marcie's, as promised, and we'll call when we get to Iowa."

"Good," Angela said. "I'd hate to have to wait until a rally started to know you were alive."

The family grinned and chit-chatted all the way to Marcie's-- a friend of Angela's-- before the presidential hopeful and her husband left Richmond International for Iowa.

---

Des Moines, Iowa
Cassie's First Town Hall

(Image)

“Ladies and gentlemen of the great state of Iowa, it is my honor to introduce you to… Senator Cassie Hepburn-Smith!” one of the volunteers ecstatically called as he introduced CHS.

Cassie excitedly speed-walked up the small stage and waved to the hundred or so people that had turned out for her first town hall. She took a microphone into her hand and, turning to the crowd, she said, “Good afternoon, Des Moines! How are you doing?” There were a few cheers, and some attempted legitimate replies, but most clapped. “This is the first town hall that I’ll be holding as we try to take on every single state in this election. No state is unwinnable, no state is too far gone. Iowa is going to help us prove this. I’m here today to answer your questions and hear about what concerns you have about the issues facing America today.” She paused and motioned to a few local volunteers, who stood at several places around the room. “Go to one of these bright young men and women. Talk to me. No issue is off-limits. To say otherwise would be to ignore the concerns of the American people.”

Around a dozen people or so moved to line up with the volunteers. The first inquisitive citizen was an older teenager, well-dressed with good form. “Good afternoon, Governor,” he began, voice a little shaky and broken. “My question to you is this: Do you think that you have any chance at winning the nomination, or are you a protest candidate? A lot of folks see you as too liberal to win.”

"Thank you for the question-- what's your name?"

"Edward, ma'am."

"Alright. Thank you for the question, Edward. It's a good one, and a very fair one. I wouldn't be running if I thought that I wouldn't win. My campaign represents middle America-- the Americans that don't fall into either the Liberal Left or Conservative Right-- and wants someone in between to serve America as their president. We've seen competence in Congress and the White House these past few months, and I want to rectify that. Both parties forget sometimes that they're making decisions for people that don't always agree with them, and I want to fix that. We need to bring a new era of bipartisanship to 1400 Pennsylvania Avenue that we've not seen in a long time. Thank you for your question, Edward."

She looked to the next person.

"What's your name and your question, please?"

A red-headed woman stands “My husband is currently serving in Iraq. I want to know with your administration when are he and our other soldiers going to be coming home?”

"There are tough decisions ahead and America deserves leaders that are up to the challenge. As president, I will ensure that our troops come home victorious in this war that is part of the larger struggle against radical Islamic extremism and will continue to make keeping our nation secure my highest priority. I believe very strongly that we will be out of Iraq by the end of 2009 at the very latest under a Hepburn-Smith administration. We've seen some very good results out of the troop surge already, and they will help us end this war quickly and decisively."

[Kavanis]

"We need to bring a new era of bipartisanship to 1400 Pennsylvania Avenue that we've not seen in a long time. Thank you for your question, Edward."

"What's your name and your question, please?"

Jennifer was momentarily thrown by the Senator talking about "1400 Pennsylvania Avenue", an address she'd never heard of. That said, she'd already got her question ready in her mind, so she shrugged it off when she was called and asked:

"Senator, I'm Jennifer Taff. I'm from Newton. My question is: can you give a specific example of a program you are going to cut in order to balance the budget?"

[Meretica]

"We need to bring a new era of bipartisanship to 1400 Pennsylvania Avenue that we've not seen in a long time. Thank you for your question, Edward."

"What's your name and your question, please?"

Jennifer was momentarily thrown by the Senator talking about "1400 Pennsylvania Avenue", an address she'd never heard of. That said, she'd already got her question ready in her mind, so she shrugged it off when she was called and asked:

"Senator, I'm Jennifer Taff. I'm from Newton. My question is: can you give a specific example of a program you are going to cut in order to balance the budget?"

"In 1935, the Natural Resource Conservation Service was set up to help farmers minimize soil erosion. Today, this 12,000-person agency has 2,500 field offices and costs taxpayers a cool $800 million per year. Yet the U.S. General Accounting Office has found zero difference in soil erosion between areas that participate in the program and those that don't. If Congress cut this program it would save taxpayers $3.5 billion over five years. That's just one place out of many where we can cut federal spending and save taxpayer dollars."

[Vaquas]

---

Sunday, March 18, 2007
Laakso Family Residence, Grand Forks, North Dakota
Senator Everest Laakso (D-ND)

---

"I wonder what's taking her so long."

It had been the case ever since that first night so many years ago, in the almost sterile cleanliness of her university office at the time, that whenever Isolde spoke, Everest Laakso was enthralled. Her voice, naturally relaxed and comforting in a way he could never quite place, called him to question how he had ever been so lucky to find a woman of such intellect, such grace, such beauty. Isolde had always been modest about it, but her tonality was effortlessly that of a trained singer, and had she wanted, her husband had no doubt she would have been thrust to the top of any chart worth its salt. So even when she was making a simple statement, the Senator couldn't help but stop writing and look up at her.

"Well I don't think Mrs. Oalmann has ever *been* to Grand Forks before, love, she very well could have gotten lost in our grand metropolis." he replied, tongue in cheek in the manner that always managed to pry a laugh out of Isolde, this time being no exception. She replied, in a similar tone. "Puts DC to shame, truly. When you win you should relocate the capitol building to downtown."

"Hmmf, and expose the good hardworking people here to my coworkers? Dear god no, I'm pretty sure most of them don’t love the idea of two senators roaming around, let alone 100."

Everest looked down at the paper he had been writing on. The page was almost full at this point, the neat outline of something resembling a statement on a bill he intended to support, something minor that didn't require the delicate looks-over that Martin was likely to give it back in his DC office. The pen in his left hand, sleek but well-used, had been given to him by George McGovern years and years ago, and had been his principal writing utensil ever since then. If everything went according to plan, that pen would end up in the White House after all, though many years later than had been originally intended and in the pocket of a different man. It wrote quite smoothly, he thought to himself, not for the first time, as the couple sat in silence for a few moments.

"I was wondering actually, why Catarina Oalmann? There’s a track record there to be sure, but I figured you’d elevate Lance.” Isolde queried, idly flipping to the news. The Senator raised an eyebrow.

“Lance has been great, I just don’t think he has all the mileage we’re going to need for the long haul. I had a chat with him over a croissant, he understands.”

“He understands, or he told you he understands?”

“He understands. I think. He kept eating his croissant so I think that’s good.”

“And you’re sure that this woman is the right one?”

“She’s 5-0 on statewide campaigns, I made sure she was squeaky clean before I hired her, and her enemies are my enemies. I’m pretty sure.”

The pair were quiet again. Everest’s eyes turned to the television himself, his mouth turning down slightly. The panel was talking about Carole Martel, naturally. If there was anyone the corporate media types loved more, Laakso didn’t know of them. He had come to dislike Martel as a colleague, and the two had more than once gotten into arguments over their conflicting stances on a bill. Not bright, not interesting, not someone he wanted to see become President of the United States. He wondered what his daughter thought of a woman like Martel, if she viewed her as an inspiration or role model. Of his children, she had always been the least interested in his job's intricacies, and so when she was around work tended to stay out of conversation. His thoughts drifted to her progress in school, she'd been struggling in some art history class, and as much as he'd tried to help he could tell it was going to get rough grades-wise. Might be nice to have a chat with her teacher, he considered. Given she was at her friend Elaine's house today, he wondered what she was up to at this very moment, but his thoughts moved to Martel again when a clip of her rather unpleasant voice sounded through the tv.

“Do you think she knows-”

A knock on the door stole Everest’s attention away from the television.

“Looks like she managed to find her way through the concrete jungle.”

Standing up and walking to his front door, he looked through the peephole and exhaled, confirming that his soon-to-be campaign manager was on the other side. Opening the door, he gave her a smile.

“Ms. Oalmann, I hope it wasn’t any trouble getting here.”

The tall woman smiled. “Not at all, pretty much a straight shot. Though, apparently there was an accident not too far from here, blocked the road. Hence the delay.”

The Senator welcomed her inside, leading her to the large coffee table in the den surrounded by chairs and a large, very comfortable looking couch. “Catarina Oalmann, its nice to meet you.” she directed at Isolde as she took a seat in one of the chairs. “Likewise, I've been reading about you. My husband seems to think you can make me First Lady.”

“For my own sake I hope so, I don’t like breaking streaks when I can help it.”

That earned a slight chuckle as Everest spoke.

“So, Ms. Oalmann, I’m glad you’re here. I’ve taken the liberty of collecting some important documents for you to look over so you have the full picture of the direction I’m hoping to steer this ship in. I know when we spoke in DC you proved your speed-reading skill, so I’ll let you look over that as we discuss some first steps.” he said, picking up the previously unaddressed clipboard on the table and handing it over to her. “Just to be clear by the way, are you now officially off the Baxton payroll?”

“I am.” she responded, looking over the plans for the campaign launch first, her eyes darting across the page. “Nice location, I approve. Good imagery for the press.”

“I appreciate it. To be clear, in sealing the deal on this you’ll have a lot of free reign to organize, I’m not a hardass unless I need to be and you’re clearly doing something right given everything under your belt. That said one thing I need is a commitment to keeping Lance Park in the loop as your deputy. I have a lot of trust in him and I need you to do the same. He’s going to be involved in decision making, I hope that’s not a problem.”

“Mmmm, no problem.” the brunette replied, flipping through additional pages. Isolde studied her features as her husband continued to speak.

“Good, good. Anything they might throw at me is in there too, so you can get out ahead of it if need be. I’ve got the family on board so no issues there.”

“Better than I could have said for what I had to deal with in Virginia, so that’s a good start. Looks like the main problem's going to be finances, I think we can get a ball rolling down the hill but we’re going to be limited in our spots at first. Targeted early state markets designed to generate buzz is probably our best bet.”

“I agree. I also want to talk to the papers, see if we can't start catching eyes from the heavier wallets in the beltway that aren't full of blood money. I'm assuming that won't be a problem."

"No, no." she agreed, scratching the side of her face.

"Excellent..."

Over the next couple of hours, the three managed to get fully organized, ready for the announcement later that week with a certain confidence filling North Dakota's junior Senator as he reflected on his choice for campaign manager. Laakso took to treating his guest to an unexpected meal of pancakes and bacon after the business side of things were handled, revealing his love of breakfast food as dinner, and over forks and chit-chat he was sure he'd sent the ball of structural leadership smashing through the hoop. Now, with his team in place and his spirits high, it was time to revisit that big speech of his and make sure the final product would grab attention...

[Yaruqo]

Gunsley responded, saying "Those are simply things I proposed cutting from the bill, the choice is ultimately yours on what to get rid of, and I am one of the main moderate Republicans in Congress, getting a Republican to even speak favorably the bill would draw alot of attention to it and help gather public support for it. You could help sway Democrats to support the bill while I rail against the PATRIOT Act to the Republicans, you have little to lose as all you have to do is trim a bit of fat off of the bill in exchange for a Republican co-sponsoring it.", Rep. Gunsley finished, awaiting a response.

“Congressman, I’m not sure why you want these particular lines cut from the bill. You’ve offered me no rationale behind it aside from ‘I’ll support it if you do.’ I’m not inclined to castrate my legislation for the sake of one Republican, one Republican who, I might add, is currently embroiled in an ethics scandal,” Miller curtly stated, letting the shoe drop. “So if I’m going to seriously entertain your input, I need to know why you want these sections cut, on what grounds? And if you can’t answer that, then this meeting should end.”

[Melovinta]

"Then I believe that this conversation has no reason to continue, good day Congressman." Representative Gunsley said, getting up from the seat and exiting the office.

[Jovuistan]

She nodded, "Yes, this battle is going to be about the narrative. We have to make sure we're ready to fight Republican smears on this. I understand your hesitance to come out in support of it. Just make the decision you feel is best for you and your constituents."

Winston listened in on their conversation, "Oh, yes to the healthcare for vets. To be honest, I'd say I'm surprised we don't have that already, but knowing Congress... God I hope we wallop them next year." Carole chuckled, "Well, I have faith we'll have the right person to take them on. Oh, speaking of, what do you think about the Presidential race so far, Greg?"

Greg gazed out into the distance as Carole asked that question about the presidential race. "Well, I think it's still a bit too early into the race to form any solid opinions, you never know what could happen, or who could join the race. But I know that I don't a Republican or Robert Woolworth anywhere near the White House, I doubt that Woolworth make it much past, I'll say South Carolina, but his popularity so far frightens me. Now for the other candidates: Tripp Baylor, I don't know much about, but I don't like the idea of a former CEO, and someone who's never mounted a political campaign being the face of the Democratic Party. With Upton Robert Fleming, the Pennsylvania Governor, I think he has the potential of being the next Jack Kennedy, or his youth and inexperience may prove his undoing as it did for [not-Dan Quayle]. That leaves you Carole, and I like most of your policy positions, you're the frontrunner for my endorsement. Though I'm not sure that carries much weight, maybe a bit here in California, and I certainly want to endorse before the California primaries, but I don't think you'll have much trouble here. Perhaps my most valuable commodity might be my ability to get others to the side I endorse, I'm pretty friendly with the higher ups in the party, but that remains yet to be seen. And I think you're the best candidate at the moment, you have the experience, and I think you'll be able to take on what is almost always a ugly and unforgiving process. I truly think you'll be able to win the White House for us... But" Greg paused for a moment sorting through his thoughts "if there's one criticism I have of you , it's that I don't like you're tough on crime rhetoric. I know it's what the people want to hear, and what will win. I know America isn't ready to hear what I have to say, but I've been on the streets, I've seen what causes crime. And these people, they've been driven to crime, and prison or the threat of prison won't stop them. They need rehabilitation, they need support." Greg looked off in the distance again, "You know I've had my issues with alcohol, and it was rehabilitation that helped me, and got me to this point. Crime and drugs should be thought of in the same way." Ellen held Greg's hand knowing that there were much darker secrets in Greg's past that he was not sharing. Greg sighed, "I know you'll be great out on the campaign trail, but I suppose what I'm asking now is, how will you govern?"

Carole smiled, "Well I thank you for that. I don't disagree with you about rehabilitation, getting people back on their feet is just as important as punishing those who do evil. I think we can work together on that, if you'd like; getting something together that addresses the root causes of crime like poverty and mental illness. Trust me, Al's had his own struggles that he needed to be rehabilitated out of."

She adjusted in her seat, "Now, the way I would govern would be about actually listening to people. I mean, you and I both know how arrogant and stubborn Cush has been running things. He refuses to listen to anyone on Iraq and so many other issues. I want my administration to be a steady hand after all this chaos these past few years and pay attention to ordinary Americans' concerns. In other words, I want to find a way to bring back the responsible, people-first government of the (not-Clinton) years while simultaneously moving America forward. This is a new century, and the world is so different from what it was even just a decade ago, so naturally, we'd need to do things a bit differently than we do now. At the same time, however, we can't risk going into this new era being led by someone who doesn't have the experience and leadership for the job. So I want to take my experience along with the experience of my eventual cabinet to bring about the change necessary to keep our country ahead. Now when it comes to governing in practice, I want to make sure every decision is made with all the information and based on facts and logic, not rushed and incompetent like some of Cush's moves. As for working with the Republicans, I think that sort of thing is important to keeping America united. We disagree on a lot of things, I certainly wouldn't sacrifice my principles for the sake of compromise, but I want to focus less on partisan scuffles and more on finding common ground and negotiating. In more of a nutshell, I want to be a uniter who governs responsibly and decisively to bring America into the 21st century."

[The Sarangtus Lands]

Bennett visits the Culinary Workers, Las Vegas, Nevada

"Hello, everyone! It is an honour to truly meet you all, to speak to the good working people of America, the people I have always sought to represent for my entier career. You know, my father was a union worker, so there's a special place in my heart for the union ideal, for the ideal of solidarity, for the ideal that we are better off together than apart. It may be cliche to say this, but Abraham Lincoln was right when he said that a house divided against itself cannot stand. We cannot continue living in a country where our house has been divided into a wealthy half and a poor half. We cannot continue living in a country where, despite record economic growth, 38 million people live in poverty. We cannot continue living in a country where, even as productivity booms, real wages remain stagnant. We cannot continue living in a country which puts profit before people, which puts the wishes of the few against the needs of the many, where the poor and the sick are left to die like rotten fruit, denied of their humanity and of the ability to exercise their freedom.

And it is the power of a union that can help us strive towards an America where this is not the case, the America that Hubert Humphrey, Franklin Roosevelt and John Kennedy would've wanted. The America that is in the hearts of millions, the America whose values linger in the air, the America of hope, the America of opportunity and the America of justice. It is you who can make that dream possible, who can help us push forward, and who can help us win. Because, as the song goes, when the people are united, they can never be defeated. We must remember that, for though the struggle for a better nation may be long and painful, it is a worthy one, and one that we must take for our children and our grandchildren, for the future of this nation, in the heart and in the soul.

The work that you are doing here is essential to keep America turning, to keep this country fed, and I applaud it greatly no matter what slurs they might throw out in Wall Street or in Washington about 'unskilled' or 'worthless' work. All honest work, no matter what work it is, is worthy of a living wage. We shouldn't be having people in this country who are working 40 hours a week yet barely making ends meet.

So, I tell you this, my brothers and sisters. We must have ever-abiding confidence in the struggle that lies ahead of us, for without fear or consternation we must keep on going, keep on fighting, keep the dream of a better nation alive. Because without hope, without dreams, without souls, what are we? We are robots, we are machines! And we are not machines, we are people! We will not be treated like cattle anymore, like animals without right to dignity or the ability to reason. But we are not blind, we are not limp, we know what is going on, we know what they are doing, and therefore it is our duty, as citizens of this nation, as the fathers and mothers of the future of our descendants, to do what is right and to combat these machines of power at the core.

That is the power of a union, that is the power of politics. A lot of people, especially the young and the jaded who have seen the times that we are in, and the older amongst you after the horror of Watergate, believe that politics is simply about personal struggles, about leeches attempting to climb to the top, about who can conquer their enemies and who can slyly defeat their opponents through deception and falsehoods. But that is not what politics is about - or at the very least, it is not what it is ought to be about! It ought to be about improving the lives of the people, the common, everyday, reasonable people like you, who are awake to what is happening in this country, who are living paycheck-to-paycheck, who keep on hearing about all that growth on the Dow, yet see your personal finances essentially remain the same.

Politics is not about power, it is about people, and I will believe that to my dying day. But of course, this is neither a lecture nor a sermon, therefore I'd now like to hear your questions."

[Meretica]

"I understand that feeling," Abilene said with a smile, already cutting into the pot pie to dish it out. "Please, take a seat." As she doled out the food, she took a deep breath, formulating her final thoughts very briefly. She pushed a plate of chicken pot pie his way and took a nibble of her own before she spoke. "Has anyone caught your eye for the primaries on either side?"

Greg took his seat and smiled, "Well it's still a bit early in the race, and I'm not sold on anyone yet. But I like what I'm seeing from Martel, I know her, we're from the same state after all, and our families are pretty close. But she's a solid campaigner, with lots of experience, and a solid liberal. I think she can carry the Democratic banner, and carry it well. It goes without saying that I don't like Woolworth, and I'd do anything to keep him away from the nomination. I don't he'll go very far, but his success so far is startling. I don't the idea of Tripp Baylor. That leaves us with Upton Robert Fleming, who's a bit of a wild card for me, he hasn't proven himself yet, and I need to see more to form a solid opinion. But he's young and energetic, which could be huge for us, he could be the next Jack Kennedy, but his youth and inexperience could cost us, he could be the next [not-Dan Quayle]. But what about you, what do you think?"

"Officially, I can't say. That's one of the things about being in the leadership, unfortunately-- no official favoritism," Abilene said with a frown. "But off the record... Fleming has a chance to really do something for us here. If things fell our way, we've got more than a Kennedy on our hands. 300 electoral votes minimum, 5-point popular margin at the very least. Increased turnout among minorities, flip a few moderates and liberal Republicans... we could win big if we took that risk."

[New Luciannova]

Newbury, New Hampshire
Saturday 17 March 2007
1030 Hours, Local
Amadeus Putnam was glad he had set up a chance to meet with Jordan Douglass. This meeting would seem strange to say the least, but Douglass was often seen as a firebrand and a radical, Putnam was a reserved intellectual. Douglass was black and heavily invested in racial identity, Putnam saw race as a physical descriptor and little more, preferring to think of everyone as an individual. Douglass was critical of the Catholic Church, and Amadeus Putnam had once wanted to be a priest, ideally, a bishop. Making the contrast even more distinct, Amadeus Putnam grew up in considerable privilege. Douglass lacked access to the same standard of living growing up.
However, both did have a few things in common that made Putnam interested. Both had an earnest desire to do the right thing and were men of God. Both also were tied to the historical and built-in legacy their names carried.
What made Putnam happier was that today he would be marching with the New Hampshire Republican Party through the streets of Concord. He suspected other candidates might be present, but this was his event, it was St. Patrick’s Day and he was partly Irish on his mother’s side of the family. He enjoyed this event and although he considered marching somewhere more visible, like Boston or Washington, DC, he had chosen Concord, as those were his roots. He had marched there ever since he first was elected to State Senate. He was well-known and well-liked in Concord, and knew all politics was local. He was going to be joined by Kenzie, his kids, and Outlaw, who was content to be in a pupusa.
Putnam had penned a St. Patrick’s Day address which would be on his campaign web-site, he wore his green bow tie and green sport coat for the parade and greeted the camera in his study before making his way to the mustering point. Kenzie say adjacent to him and a greenscreen was draped behind them to make it look like an Irish pub. He had an instrumental rendition of “the Wearing of the Green” playing in the background with traditional instruments, the bagpipes, harps, and flutes filled the air with an ancient magic of sorts, then the video had begun,
“Good morning to everyone in America, especially the Irish population, with whom I share common ancestry. Like many Irish, my father is orange and my mother was green. In high school I decided to become a green, bucking Putnam tradition. Fortunately, my parents got along far better than the oranges and greens did in Ireland and accepted my choice. I’ve always held my ancestry and culture close to my heart and enjoyed St. Patrick’s Day with Irish folk music, a corned beef sandwich, an Irish pub, and wearing the green, the color of my people,” Amadeus said.
“Of course, Amadeus isn’t alone in wearing the green,” said Kenzie, she was wearing a well-fitting green jacket and pillbox hat, “I’m looking forward to getting my green on and celebrating our family’s cultural heritage.”
“Erin go Bragh!” both said in unison.
“Cut,” should the technician and he was ready to be edited and posted online.
The whole family and Outlaw had scrambled away to where the parade was mustering. Amadeus met Lucius “Lux” Galilee at the mustering ground, who was serving as chairman of the local GOP was a State Senator. Had Amadeus won the nomination, Galilee would likely be running in his place.
“Ah, Congressman and Dr. Putnam!” said Galilee gleefully, “I have some good news, I haven’t heard from any of your primary opponents about this party, so I’m guessing they’ve decided that Concord was your town, if not in general, at least today. I’m going to have to ask you to walk somewhat separately from the party, but I managed to get a few fife and drum types to escort you and your rally signs have been distributed through the town. The only reason you can’t march with us directly is because our by-laws prevent it, but rest assured, my friend, you won our casual straw poll unanimously!”
As soon as Putnam had squared things away with Galilee, he approached Father Riley. The priest was elderly, but spry and happy to greet Amadeus and Kenzie, both of whom he had married. He also was delighted to see Thomas Aquinas, Dagny, and Artemis with them, having baptized all three and gave Thomas Aquinas his First Holy Communion. "Happy St. Patrick's Day, Amadeus, and his lovely family!" greeted the priest, shaking hands with each of them, "now, Amadeus, just so you know, I'm going to be supporting you, and I'm going to give you a special blessing right now." The aged priest performed the ritual then said, "I've got to make the rounds to remain impartial, God bless!"
The parade event went quite well, Amadeus shook hands with observers and it was an ego trip to see how many of the residents in Concord waved his signs. He was with his people, and for a short while, he forgot how many were questioning the strength of his candidacy.
He would be back in DC on Monday looking to speak with a Democrat, Miller, and some other colleagues he considered essential. Today, he was going to have some fun and would be at an Irish pub singing his favorites “The Irish Rover,” “Johnston’s Motorcar,” “The Star of the County Down,” and his own theme, owing to his parents “The Orange and the Green.” The only difference between him and most of the men and women who joined in, he was sober. Amadeus went to the Church to light a candle in honor of St. Patrick, himself. Putnam then retired for the evening knowing he would be in Church the following day.

[Mareadmonte]

"Congressman" A male reporter with dark messy hair stood "You have previously spoken in favor of the Iraq War, do you think the war is on the right track and if elected how would you prosecute the war differently? Would you be in favor of a withdraw?

"I think, while the war is on the right track as of now, we're obviously not staying in Iraq forever. In the coming weeks, alongside my excellent campaign team, we'll be putting together a feasible and pragmatic timeline for an eventual withdrawl from the country. I think... the troop surge is going fairly... well, on that note as well. But my goal, at a minimum, is to be out of Iraq by 2011. But in the general sense, I can really go either way on the war. Not everything is binary, alright? There are good and bad things, good and bad things. Certainly. Excellent, great question. Thank'y so much."

"Amos Hammond, New York Times. Many Democrats think of you being more of a Republican than a Democrat. Do you have any comment on how your more conservative stances on some issues might affect your chances at winning the nomination, especially given that you have previously opposed Democratic nominees like Al Gore?"

"Look, bud. I'm a Democrat, 100%. 'less some whackjob comes in and wins the nomination, I will always be a Democrat. Anyone who says otherwise is spewing nothin' but capital B capital S, alright? Y'here? It's really a simple answer. I think I can win the nomination, absolutely. Because I'm not a conservative, I'm not a liberal. I'm for the people, okay? The people are my base, my strength. I love the people, the people love me."

Mildred Galentine, Des Moines Register

"Congressman, last session President Cush vetoed a bill on stem cell research. Your party included a promise for federal funding for stem cell research in the platform that won them back control of Congress in the most recent elections, and earlier this year Governor [not Culver] signed legislation allowing certain forms of stem cell research. What will be your position on stem cell research be?"

"I do and always have believed that a fetus is a living, breathing child of God. I am 100% pro-life, and I think abortion should be reduced to the lowest levels possible to preserve the sanctity of children. I think Governor not-Culver's decision was absolutely atrocious, and if I were him I'd be ashamed of myself for allowing further destruction of God's will. Absolutely disgraceful action. Just disgusting. If I am elected, I will work to limit and possibly outlaw the purposeful conceiving of literal babies for use in research. I will cut federal funding altogether for this abhorrent practice. It's disgusting, it's immoral, and it's wrong! And it's not like we ain't got no alternatives either! I was just readin' the other day 'bout the uhh...iPR, iPS cells? iPS cells, yeah. They were discovered two years ago, I believe. No babies needed. Pretty much the same deal."

Lulu Chase, Des Moines Register:

"Lulu Chase, Des Moines Register, my question for you is about the other candidates in the race: do you think you have a chance at winning the Democratic nomination with such conservative views? Who is your biggest opponent?"

"Really, again with the "Oooh, I can't win the nomination because x, y, and z!" crap? Come on, don't you people have anything better to ask, like the real issues facing this country? We have enormous problems in this country, with amazing solutions. That's what I'm focused on, and that's why I think I can win the nomination. Ask some real questions, please."

[Meretica]

"Look, bud. I'm a Democrat, 100%. 'less some whackjob comes in and wins the nomination, I will always be a Democrat. Anyone who says otherwise is spewing nothin' but capital B capital S, alright? Y'here? It's really a simple answer. I think I can win the nomination, absolutely. Because I'm not a conservative, I'm not a liberal. I'm for the people, okay? The people are my base, my strength. I love the people, the people love me."

"Unfortunately, Congressman, many of your views are opposed by a majority of the Democratic primary-- especially abortion and stem cell research. Is there any way that you can win outside of the South?"

[Mareadmonte]

"Look, bud. I'm a Democrat, 100%. 'less some whackjob comes in and wins the nomination, I will always be a Democrat. Anyone who says otherwise is spewing nothin' but capital B capital S, alright? Y'here? It's really a simple answer. I think I can win the nomination, absolutely. Because I'm not a conservative, I'm not a liberal. I'm for the people, okay? The people are my base, my strength. I love the people, the people love me."

"Unfortunately, Congressman, many of your views are opposed by a majority of the Democratic primary-- especially abortion and stem cell research. Is there any way that you can win outside of the South?"

"My views are not opposed by the voters, by the people. They're opposed by the folks in D.C., in New York, in Los Angeles - they don't want me to win. Because they know, if I win, their cushy mansions, their insider trading - Gunsley'll run away tail between his legs, and their corruption will be over. I can win primaries in the South, I can win in the midwest, frankly I can win anywhere I want because the people, the voters that I love so much, they know that the word of God, His will, and the right direction for this country morally and economically can only be found in me. But that doesn't mean this is about me, it's about me as a vessel for the people's voice in the Oval Office."

[Meretica]

"Unfortunately, Congressman, many of your views are opposed by a majority of the Democratic primary-- especially abortion and stem cell research. Is there any way that you can win outside of the South?"

"My views are not opposed by the voters, by the people. They're opposed by the folks in D.C., in New York, in Los Angeles - they don't want me to win. Because they know, if I win, their cushy mansions, their insider trading - Gunsley'll run away tail between his legs, and their corruption will be over. I can win primaries in the South, I can win in the midwest, frankly I can win anywhere I want because the people, the voters that I love so much, they know that the word of God, His will, and the right direction for this country morally and economically can only be found in me. But that doesn't mean this is about me, it's about me as a vessel for the people's voice in the Oval Office."

"So you believe that you can win the nomination without appealing to urban voters, who make up the largest part of the modern Democratic coalition, but win back the rural whites that make up the Republican base, even though urban Democrats have much larger numbers and would never vote for you?"

[Hopal]

Greg took his seat and smiled, "Well it's still a bit early in the race, and I'm not sold on anyone yet. But I like what I'm seeing from Martel, I know her, we're from the same state after all, and our families are pretty close. But she's a solid campaigner, with lots of experience, and a solid liberal. I think she can carry the Democratic banner, and carry it well. It goes without saying that I don't like Woolworth, and I'd do anything to keep him away from the nomination. I don't he'll go very far, but his success so far is startling. I don't the idea of Tripp Baylor. That leaves us with Upton Robert Fleming, who's a bit of a wild card for me, he hasn't proven himself yet, and I need to see more to form a solid opinion. But he's young and energetic, which could be huge for us, he could be the next Jack Kennedy, but his youth and inexperience could cost us, he could be the next [not-Dan Quayle]. But what about you, what do you think?"

"Officially, I can't say. That's one of the things about being in the leadership, unfortunately-- no official favoritism," Abilene said with a frown. "But off the record... Fleming has a chance to really do something for us here. If things fell our way, we've got more than a Kennedy on our hands. 300 electoral votes minimum, 5-point popular margin at the very least. Increased turnout among minorities, flip a few moderates and liberal Republicans... we could win big if we took that risk."

"Fleming would definitely be a gamble, that could reap high rewards, as you mention. We'll learn more about him in the weeks and months to come, the primary should test him. I don't know much about him, and I might want to have a meeting with him down the road. I think I'll want to meet with all the presidential candidates before I make my endorsement, though I have plenty of time for that. What do you about Fleming, and what do you think about the rest of the field?"