Talk Elections

Presidential Elections - Analysis and Discussion => Election What-ifs? => Topic started by: NHI on July 04, 2012, 09:25:45 PM



Title: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 04, 2012, 09:25:45 PM
CNN BREAKING NEWS: LIVE FROM PORTSMOUTH, NH

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ROMNEY ANNOUNCES AYOTTE FOR VICE PRESIDENT

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"I am honored to serve on the ticket with the man who will be the next President of the United States, Mitt Romney. Our country is in trouble and we need a man with turnaround experience and the business forte to get the economy going again...America needs Mitt!"

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Romney and Ayotte hit the trail.

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"Certainly a surprise pick by Governor Romney, when the consensus was leading towards Senator Portman of Ohio, the question that I'm sure will arise over the next few days is over her experience and if she's qualified to be President."

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"Wolf, those questions are circulating as we speak, with many wondering if Sen. Ayotte is Sarah Palin 2.0. Now when we spoke to the Romney campaign earlier for a statement their response was that Ms. Ayotte is vetted and extremely qualified to be President. The campaign crafted a list of a qualification and attributes for the candidates they vetted and Ms. Ayotte not only passed the qualifications portion, but has the right chemistry with the Governor..."

Tracking Poll: August 20, 2012:
Obama/Biden: 47%
Romney/Ayotte: 45%


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Jerseyrules on July 04, 2012, 10:30:04 PM
Meh, I'm not that big on Ayotte, but your TLs never disappointed me.  More please ;)


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: President von Cat on July 05, 2012, 01:56:41 AM
Gee, I wonder how this is gonna end up.. ;)


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 05, 2012, 08:21:21 AM
Gee, I wonder how this is gonna end up.. ;)

You'll see, I have a few surprises in store.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 05, 2012, 09:12:54 AM
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Romney and Ayotte sit down with Sean Hannity.

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"Fellow delegates to this convention, with deep gratitude and great hope for the future I accept your nomination for Vice President of the United States...Mitt Romney is the man for the job. With unemployment above eight percent since the start of President Obama's administration. With millions of Americans out of work. With dashed dreams and talk of American Decline. My fellow citizens it is time for a change, and Mitt Romney is the agent of change America needs. So join with us as we work to fight for American and to bring this country back!"

()
The Republican Super Star

Tracking Poll: August 29, 2012:
Obama/Biden: 47%
Romney/Ayotte: 47%


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Jerseyrules on July 05, 2012, 10:18:06 AM
Interesting.  Please continue ;)


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Amenhotep Bakari-Sellers on July 05, 2012, 10:31:14 AM
I don't think Ayotte is gonna be selected, but a good story indeed.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: H.E. VOLODYMYR ZELENKSYY on July 05, 2012, 10:59:37 AM
Go on...


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 06, 2012, 08:14:02 AM
()
"I will just say I think Governor Romney made an error in picking Sen. Ayotte and it's not because she's a woman or Sarah Palin-lite. It's on the basic principle that she does not have the experience to be President. It was a political calculation, not a presidential one."

"But some will argue President Obama had very little experience when he ran for the office four years ago, so the argument your side is making is null and void?"

"Yes, but one Barack, President Obama selected me as his running mate to counterbalance the inexperience argument, but also you learn on your feet. There is on the job training, no one walks in ready to be President on day one."

()
"I'll let Sen. Ayotte speak for herself, but what Vice President Biden said is not funny. The idea of having on the job training is the reason we are in the position we're in today. Sen. Ayotte was Attorney General of the State of New Hampshire and has served in the United States Senate. She is ready, otherwise I would not have selected her. Now my suggestion would be to the Vice President is that he and the President start focusing on the economy, rather than these silly sideshow antics."

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"I can't wait to debate Joe Biden, because the contrasts are going to be so evident. From the vision Governor Romney is presenting for America, and the vision or lack thereof President Obama is presenting for America."

Tracking Poll: September 4, 2012
Romney/Ayotte: 48%
Obama/Biden: 46%


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Warren 4 Secretary of Everything on July 06, 2012, 05:27:59 PM
Gee, I wonder who's gonna win this one.... (cough) Mitt in signature (cough)


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 07, 2012, 11:48:50 AM
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"The polls continue to tighten in the race for the White House between President Obama and Governor Mitt Romney.

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"This is a horserace, especially in the close states which will decide this election. Ohio, Virginia, Wisconsin, Florida to name a few. Now states colored in solid red are secure for the President, and the same for Governor Romney with the states in blue. States in lighter red or blue slightly favor Obama and Romney respectively and states in yellow are too close to call."

"Even with Sen. Ayotte on the ticket, New Hampshire is still too close."

(
)
Obama: 246
Romney: 206

"So John, show our viewers some the scenarios we might see on November 6 for either candidate's victory."

"For President Obama every electoral prediction or calculation we've seen from the campaign shows them winning the states like Colorado and New Mexico which are trending in his favor, New Hampshire, and Wisconsin. This map occurs the President just squeaks by with a narrow victory of 273 to 265.

(
)


"Now for the Obama campaign that a worse case scenario, but they think they'll be able to take Ohio, Nevada and Iowa which gives him a comfortable victory of 303 to 235.

(
)

"For the Romney campaign their maps consist of carrying Virginia, North Carolina, Florida, Ohio, New Hampshire. If Romney does that he gets to 270 and only 270. Now the map is tougher for Governor Romney, but the campaign thinks they can pickup Wisconsin, Iowa and possibly Nevada, but for now Wolf all this is political parlor games. Nothing will matter until November 6th."

(
)

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Romney and Ayotte campaign in New Hampshire.

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Obama hits the trail in Ohio, chastising Romney's record at Bain.

Tracking Poll: September 28, 2012:
Obama/Biden: 48%
Romney/Ayotte: 47%

Tracking Poll: Ohio
Obama/Biden: 48%
Romney/Ayotte: 48%

Tracking Poll: New Hampshire
Romney/Ayotte: 47%
Obama/Biden: 46%

Tracking Poll: Virginia
Romney/Ayotte: 49%
Obama/Biden: 48%

Tracking Poll: Wisconsin
Obama/Biden: 50%
Romney/Ayotte: 47%

Tracking Poll: Nevada
Obama/Biden: 49%
Romney/Ayotte: 47%

Tracking Poll: Iowa
Obama/Biden: 48%
Romney/Ayotte: 48%

Tracking Poll: Florida
Romney/Ayotte: 50%
Obama/Biden: 48%


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 07, 2012, 11:58:15 AM
CNN ELECTION NIGHT
"I'm Wolf Blitzer and welcome to CNN's Election Night coverage. The Poll have closed in a number of states, but we can make a few projections in the race so far.

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)
"CNN now projects that President Obama is the winner in the state of Vermont.

Vermont: 1%
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Obama: 61%
Romney: 37%

"And we project that Governor Romney is the winner in the state of South Carolina."

South Carolina: 2%
()
Romney: 57%
Obama: 41%

(
)
Romney/Ayotte: 9
Obama/Biden: 3

"And we can project that Governor Romney is the winner in the state of Kentucky, another Republican stronghold."

Kentucky: 4%
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Romney: 59%
Obama: 39%


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 07, 2012, 09:42:22 PM
"...And CNN can now project that President Obama is the winner in the state of Wisconsin."

Wisconsin: 48%
()
Obama: 52%
Romney: 46%

"The Obama campaign played for that state, despite a strong presence by the Romney campaign and it stays in the Democrat's column.

(
)
Obama/Biden: 169
Romney/Ayotte: 169

"There is still a race in the battleground states of New Hampshire, Ohio, Florida and Virginia."

"Governor Romney is going to need those state if he is to win this election."

"And we project now that President Obama has carried Colorado."

Colorado: 52%
()
Obama: 53%
Romney: 45%

Ohio: 57%
Obama: 49.5%
Romney: 47.7%

New Hampshire: 71%
Obama: 49.4%
Romney: 49.0%

Virginia: 57%
Obama: 49.1%
Romney: 48.6%

10:21
(
)
Obama/Biden: 184
Romney/Ayotte: 179

Iowa: 19%
()
Obama: 51%
Romney: 47%

"So goes Iowa for President Obama. Another state Governor Romney fails to capture. The question now remains can he close the deal?"

"There are enough states to seal a victory, but it's difficult to say. The longer the projection the better it might be for Romney, but it could be for Obama?"

"Well The Romney campaign can breathe a sigh of relief, Florida will go for Governor Romney."

Florida: 55%
()
Romney: 50%
Obama: 48%

"And it appears we can now project that state of Nevada for President Obama."

Nevada: 11%
()
Obama: 51%
Romney: 46%

(
)
Romney/Ayotte: 208
Obama/Biden: 190

"Certainly at this hour the Romney campaign is holding their collective breath, is this election over?"

"Governor Romney needs Virginia, Ohio and New Hampshire at least to win the White House and those states get him to exactly 270. Of those three states President Obama needs only one and he'll be able to reach the threshold of 270."

"That is assuming that he carries states like Washington, California and Oregon."

"Yes and by all assumptions the Presidents should win those states easily."

Montana: 30%
()
Romney: 53%
Obama: 45%

South Dakota: 38%
()
Romney: 56%
Obama: 43%

Arizona: 39%
()
Romney: 51%
Obama: 47%

11:41
"And we have a projection to make..."


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 08, 2012, 08:22:48 AM
CNN PROJECTION: OBAMA REELECTED

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"With a win in the state of New Hampshire CNN can now project that President Obama has been reelected, putting him just over the finish line with 272 electoral votes."

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Obama/Biden: 272
Romney/Ayotte: 232

"Ironically it's the state of New Hampshire that puts the President over the top. Despite having Kelly Ayotte, the Senator from the state, Governor Romney could not carry the state. It goes for Obama with a little under 50% of the vote."

"And the states of Virginia and Ohio still remain unclear at this time."

"With the majority of the vote counted in Ohio it is trending the President's way, but Virginia is too close to call. The candidates have been trading back and forth all night."

"Any word when we'll hear from Governor Romney tonight?"

"Word is coming that Governor Romney will speak at at around midnight eastern standard time, he has reportedly called the President to concede the election, despite rumblings from within the campaign that they were not going to concede because of the narrowness of Obama's victory both in New Hampshire and the uncertainty with Virginia and Ohio, but it appears that tune has changed and they probably have more insight then us and realize now it's over."

CNN: Live from Boston, ROMNEY CONCEDES TO OBAMA. "THE PATH IS CLEARED NOW."
()
"...And I especially want to thank Sen. Kelly Ayotte. She was a terrific running mate and has a bright future with our party again I thank her for her outstanding dedication and hard work on the campaign...While we weren't successful as I had hoped, I do not want you to blame yourselves, I am the candidate, I gave it my all and in the end the hill was too steep for us to climb, but life goes on. We're Americans, we love this country and we rally together despite our differences because of one common thread, we believe in America."


"Governor Romney has just concede to President Obama, from his Boston headquarters. Certainly a tough night for the former Governor of Massachusetts, but that ends the campaign and now begins phase two, the next four years of the Barack Obama Presidency. But before we dive into what will be facing the President, what went from for Mitt Romney?"

"You know a thought that was recurring from within the Republican and on the trail, he never laid out a plan of what exactly he would do as President. He simply attacked Obama for the economy, but never applied specifics and it hurt him."

"This was a winnable election and the Republicans know it and I'm sure right now people are saying we should have went with Santorum or something equivalent, but the fact is Governor Romney despite all his baggage did give the President a run for his money. He returned Indiana, North Carolina and Florida and probably Virginia into the Republican column. He just couldn't close the deal."

"Look unemployment stands at 8.0%, the Republicans should have won this election, but it came down to Romney's lack of specifics and the ability of the Obama campaign to do what the Bush campaign did to Kerry. They made Romney seem like an unacceptable alternative. Now Obama has difficulties, the country is still divided, the economy is tanking. He has a big job ahead of him, and by no means should he or the Democrats take tonight as a mandate, whatever the final result is, this is a close election and if the trend continues a state could have made the difference."

"And CNN is now projecting that Governor Romney will carry Virginia."

"There you go, four states back for the GOP."

"Where does the party go from here?"

"The party has to reevaluate itself. The consensus from the right wing like Limbaugh and Hannity is that the candidates need to go farther right and that someone like Santorum or Gingrich should have been the nominee. That's the mistake, the farther right this party goes, that way madness lies."

"Look under normal circumstances Governor Romney should have beaten the President. With his business record, the Olympics and his tenure in Massachusetts as Governor. Under that scenario if Romney could have run on his full record he would have beaten him. The Republican Party has gone so far to the right that Romney had to ignore his entire record of elected office and that's sad."

"The Party will have to move back towards the center if it intends to win anymore Presidential elections, because divisive issues like birth control, abortion and even gay marriage are not going to help them."

"It's more than that. The Party has to connect with middle America, the youth. It cannot be a minority party, built on wins in the south. In the words of Ronald Reagan, they have to become a big tent party, once again."

"And they cannot enact a purity test with their candidates."

"So essentially, the Tea Party?"

"The Tea Party is why Mitt Romney is not President tonight, in my humble view. Despite all his baggage and missteps, Romney is poised to close tonight with at least 248 electoral votes, possibly 266 if he gets Ohio. So Romney is not John McCain tonight, like Kerry he narrowly lost to a weak incumbent. The Tea Party presence made Romney go so far to the right on women's rights issue, education, abortion, immigration that he boxed himself in. He could not reintroduce himself, because the Obama campaign already characterized him to the public as an unacceptable president."

"Despite the campaign's push on Bain it did not hurt Romney like some think. Romney lost because Obama painted him like George Bush did to John Kerry, and asked the question without saying it: Do you really want him as President."

9:18 AM, November 7th, 2012

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Obama Squeaks By...

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Four More Years, Romney Concedes, Democrats Retain Senate, Republicans House

(
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Obama/Biden: 272 49.08%
Romney/Ayotte: 266 49.26%

More to Come. Let the Games begins...


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: H.E. VOLODYMYR ZELENKSYY on July 08, 2012, 02:12:00 PM
What are the congressional numbers?


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 08, 2012, 04:32:01 PM

Senate:
Democrats: 50
Republicans: 48
Independents: 2

House:
Republicans: 240
Democrats: 195


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Warren 4 Secretary of Everything on July 08, 2012, 10:49:28 PM
What were the margins in Ohio and Virginia? If Obama was leading by so much in Iowa, Colorado, and Nevada how did Romney eek out victories in those 2 states? Other than that, you've done it again. Great time line so far.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 08, 2012, 11:04:32 PM
Narrowest of narrow victories for Romney in Ohio and Virginia.

Ohio:
Romney: 49.38%
Obama: 49.21%

Virginia:
Romney: 49.59%
Obama: 49.08%

I also wanted to give a scenario where Romney would win the popular vote, but lose the electoral vote.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: tmthforu94 on July 08, 2012, 11:12:46 PM
Your timelines are always very impressive!


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: President von Cat on July 09, 2012, 01:46:47 AM
I will eat crow.. I totally misjudged you from the start. Would really be interested in seeing your outline of a second Obama term!


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: RedPrometheus on July 09, 2012, 03:39:37 AM
Great timeline! Looking forward to the next update!


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 09, 2012, 07:50:27 AM
OBAMA SWORN IN FOR SECOND TERM: "New Era Begins Today."
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"...The battles of the last four years are over, together both parties Democrats and Republicans must work together, united and for the good of the people. For that is what they deserve. A country worthy of the works of the founders... Let us strive towards that idealistic vision of a more perfect union. That is my pledge and I intend to carry it out. Thank you, God Bless you and God Bless The United States of America."   

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"We intend to see that this President's agenda is stalled."

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"I've got a two-fold problem. I have to ensure that we can actually govern with the President, and keep my caucus in line."

()
"For middle class families your taxes will not be going up. Those who make $250,000 and up will be asked to pay a little more. Now I don't call that socialism or redistributive welfare, like my critics charge, I call it fairness."

CNN BREAKING NEWS:

"And we are getting word of Republican turmoil within the party leadership. The fight is reportedly starting from a disagreement between Senate Minority and Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Harry Ried and House Speaker John Boehner."

"No confirmation yet, but there are rumblings that following a meeting with the President today, Speaker Boehner was ready to agree on a deal with the President that would allow for taxes to go up on those making $250,000 a year, with spending cuts in unspecified areas. From what we are told Mitch McConnell left the meeting and would not accept the deal. We are are also hearing that talk of this proposed deal is causing a rift within the Republican Caucus on the House side, with some members such as Allen West calling for Boehner to step aside as Speaker."

()
"Speaker Boehner does not understand what our role is in the House and therefore he should step aside as Speaker."


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 09, 2012, 09:46:18 PM
CNN: Boehner to remain as Speaker; Deal Breaks Down with Pres. Obama

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"It saddens me that my Republicans colleagues want continue with the same old games that we battled over for the last four years. I mean to be blunt, the election is over. Now is the time for governing. Unless the Republican Party wants to be the minority party forever or just collapse entirely now is there is chance to take a stand for once and show leadership."

()
"The President wants to talk about leadership, how is raising taxes on Americans the answer?"

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"He is the most divisive, outlandish, destructive president and I think we'll have no economy left by 2017."

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"The Republican Party is shooting itself in the foot. It seems the party is setting itself up for failure in 2014 and probably 2016. They obviously didn't learn the lesson from 2012, well some on the right maybe ready to work, but the hardcore right is ready to thrown down the gauntlet and is all in a tizzy over Barack Obama."

CNN PROJECTION: JANUARY UNEMPLOYMENT NUMBERS: 7.7%
"The unemployment rate sees it's biggest drop in months. President Obama's reelection hinged on this and managed to pull it off with an unemployment at 8.0%. November saw unemployment state at 8.0%, but December saw unemployment fall to 7.9%."

Obama Approval Rating:
Approve: 50%
Disapprove: 39%


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: mondale84 on July 09, 2012, 10:53:59 PM
Interesting...please continue


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 10, 2012, 10:08:51 PM
Next update coming either Wednesday or Thursday


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 12, 2012, 05:55:03 PM
()

CNN: Speaker Boehner makes a deal with Pres.
"A deal has been reached that Speaker John Boehner will bring before the House. It is quite a breakdown from the original Republican intent. It appear that the deal includes tax hikes, coupled with spending cuts in defense."

"Speaker Boehner needs to rebuke this idea at once, otherwise he destroys everything the Republican Party stands for and what it means to be a conservative." -- Rep. Michelle Bachman.  

Obama-Boehner Deal Killed by the House
"This is to be an expected defeat for the President, but an even bigger humiliation for Speaker Boehner."

CNN: House Calls on Boehner to resign as Speaker
()

CNN:Boehner to Resigns as Speaker, Cantor poised to become Speaker
()

Obama Approval Rating:
Approve: 54%
Disapprove: 37%

()
"The current political environment has become too unstable and I feel that in order to be responsible to my speakership and to the party I will be stepping down as Speaker of the House and will continue to serve as a representative from Ohio's eighth district through the end of this legislative cycle..."


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Warren 4 Secretary of Everything on July 12, 2012, 07:05:21 PM
The non-Tea Partiers and Democrats aren't gonna allow Cantor Or McCarthy to become Speaker. They probably fear Newt Gingich 2.0. You should pick someone like Peter King or Mike Pence.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 12, 2012, 08:52:43 PM
I've put up a poll to get your thoughts for the next Speaker of the House. Next update in a few days.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: tmthforu94 on July 12, 2012, 10:29:15 PM
The non-Tea Partiers and Democrats aren't gonna allow Cantor Or McCarthy to become Speaker. They probably fear Newt Gingich 2.0. You should pick someone like Peter King or Mike Pence.
Pence will be Indiana's Governor. :)


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 13, 2012, 09:18:10 PM
()
"George, I tell you I am deeply troubled by what I see going on in Washington. The vitriolic language on both sides, the partisanship on both sides, the failure to communicate ideas and the breakdown of trust between representative and the people. We're in a big hole we're only digging it deeper."

"Are you still, or do you consider yourself a Republican?"

"Yes, still am and always will be, but I am an American first. I put the country before label and that the attitude that needs to change if America is to get back on her feet..."

Obama Approval Rating:
Approve: 52%
Disapprove: 38%

CNN BREAKING NEWS: Chris Christie announces run for reelection in NJ

Cory Booker declares his bid to challenge Christie
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Christie v. Booker: Matchup
Christie: 51%
Booker: 43%

CNN BREAKING NEWS: PETER KING ELECTED SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE
()

"Peter King will become the next Speaker of the House, beating out Eric Cantor who many believed would succeed Boehner."

"I think King is a wise selection. Cantor was too connected to Boehner and was considered to extreme by Democrats and by those moderate Republicans." -- Chris Christie

()
"We're going to get down to work. The American people deserve at least that from us. Now there are differences obviously with Democrats and Republicans, but we will work together and that's a promise."

()
"The cult of the personality with the Republican party is crumbling and we'll be receiving the benefits of this come November 2014. They just can't or I should say they are still not ready for primetime."

November 2013

Virginia Gubernatorial Results:
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Bill Bolling: 51.0%

()
Terry McAuliffe: 47.8%

New Jersey Gubernatorial Election: Too Close to Call
()
Chris Christie: 49.60%

()
Cory Booker: 49.51%

"There is great focus on the New Jersey race as Chris Christie is widely expected as a Presidential candidate in 2016 and if he is reelected then he will certainly have the needed momentum to run for the nomination."

"It's early, but 2016 speculation has already begun. Possible GOP contenders include Mike Huckabee, Christie as we've mentioned, Mike Pence of Indiana, Bobby Jindal, Kelly Ayotte, certainly Marco Rubio,  and possibly Rick Santorum, the runner-up to Mitt Romney in 2012."

"And for the Democrats the thought is Joe Biden may mount a bid to succeed President Obama, but there are other contenders with Andrew Cuomo, Mark Warner, Tim Kaine, Deval Patrick has made multiple trips to Iowa the last few months, as has Martin O'Malley. Of course the big question is whether or not Hillary Clinton will run. She has not commented on it recently. Now she does a memoir scheduled to come out the first of the year, so we'll see."

"And we do have a projection to make, Cory Booker, repeat Cory Booker has elected Governor of New Jersey. He narrowly defeats incumbent Governor Chris Christie."

New Jersey Gubernatorial Results:
Booker: 49.57%
Christie: 49.49%


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: GLPman on July 13, 2012, 09:53:10 PM
I have an idea where this is headed ;) keep it up.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Warren 4 Secretary of Everything on July 13, 2012, 11:21:34 PM
I had a feeling Peter King would be the next speaker, I said it in the beginning. I had hoped Christie would beat Booker. Booker has kinda fallen out of grace with the party after his "Bain Comments". But great timeline. Keep it up!


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: tmthforu94 on July 14, 2012, 10:24:13 AM
Good update! :) Though to be honest, I don't think Booker would run against Christie, let alone beat him.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 14, 2012, 10:20:14 PM
Politico: The Christie Defeat: What it Means for 2016?
()
"The stunning defeat of Chris Christie in the New Jersey Gubernatorial Election has every GOP powerbroker and big-wig talking. "Is the Governor's 2016 bid officially over?" The challenge presented for Christie, by the defeat to Booker is he now must combat a loser image and despite leaving office with a decent approval rating, and a booming New Jersey economy, defeats are difficult, not impossible, to overcome. The question many wonder is Christie's shinning star finally burnt out and will there be a new person to turn to in 2016, because Rick Santorum, despite rumblings of a sequel campaign is not the heir apparent."

GOP Nomination:
Rubio: 17%
Christie: 15%
Ryan: 15%
Jindal: 13%
McDonnell: 11%
Ayotte: 11%
Paul: 9%
Santorum:  6%
Other: 3%

Democratic Nomination:
Clinton 50%
Biden: 20%
Cuomo: 13%
Warren: 8%
Schweitzer: 6%
Other: 3%

My Own Voice
By: Hillary Rodham Clinton
()

"The release of Hillary Clinton's new memoir detailing her 2008 campaign for President and tenure as Secretary of State is prompting intense speculation that she'll run for President in 2016. She has largely dodged question, but in our sit down interview the former Secretary of State addressed the possibility of a 2016 campaign.

()

"I am aware that this question has been asked in some many ways, but with the release of your best selling book and a recent poll that indicated you are the Democrat's top preference to be the nominee in 2016, are you going to run for President?"

"Well, I am happy with the success of the book, and flattered by the polls that keep popping up there and to my supporters's efforts, but in terms of a future campaign I do not anticipate to be running for President."

"Vice President Biden has indicated he will likely run for the nomination in 2016, do you think he can not only win the nomination and beat the Republican challenger?"

"Look I don't play politics, if the Vice President wants to run he should, and I'll leave the politicking to the media."

"Not to sound redundant Madame Secretary, but will you run for President? A definitive yes or no answer?"

"Well, I never deal in absolutes, because I never anticipated on becoming Secretary of State, I never anticipated on becoming a Senator from New York, but we have a great party, a party with up and coming leaders, so I don't know if we need to keep relying on us Clinton be the standard bearer. Now to answer your question, I am saying no right now, because I don't think about the future. I am concentrated on the now, but I do not foresee any future campaign in my horizon."

Headline: Clinton Rules out* running for President

Obama Approval Rating:
Approve: 51%
Disapprove: 40%

CNN: Talk of a Government Shutdown Looms Again


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Jerseyrules on July 16, 2012, 11:51:22 PM
Interesting, though Christie's defeat makes me a sad panda


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 17, 2012, 05:57:29 AM
Interesting, though Christie's defeat makes me a sad panda
It was difficult for me to write also, but for story purposes it works.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 17, 2012, 06:26:32 AM
CNN: Government Shut-Down Averted, Tea Party Wings Snaps

()
"The Republican leadership saddens me greatly. We were sent here to work, and I cannot illustrate my extreme disappointment in the House and the Senate. We need to balance the budget, and cut federal spending, not by a inch, but by a mile."

()
"This is what separates the men from the boys in this situation. America is at a crossroad. We have an out of control, America bashing President, and a Congress filled with Democrats and Republicans that are no different. I think it's time the Tea Party takes a real stand. A stand to change America!"

()
"I don't think we need a third party, despite the charges of some. I think the Republican party needs a cleansing. We have to establish or reestablish who we are what we stand for. We went with a moderate in 2012, in 2016 we need to go with a conservative and an unapologetic one. You either stand with us or you're a Democrat."

()
"The talk coming from people like Rick Santorum, and others is what's wrong with America. We may need a third party after all, but not an ideological one. One that is driven on common sense, and encompassing to all."

2014 Midterms:

Democrats Back on Top
()

The Democrats return to power in the House, while keeping the Senate as well. Nancy Pelosi returns to Speaker, citing she will not be running for reelection in 2016.

Senate:
Democrats: 50
Republicans: 48
Independents: 2

House:
Democrats: 225
Republicans: 210

()
The Democrats Return

Major Legislation Passed in early 2015:
The American Job Recovery (Dubbed by Republicans: Stimulus II)
The American Dream Act (Dubbed by Republicans: Amnesty for illegals)
The Fair Taxation Act (A.K.A. The Buffett Rule)

Unemployment Rate: March 2015
7.4%

New York Times: First Signs of 2016
()

Jeb Bush Considering a Run, will announce in June.

()
"I will not be running for President in 2016, but will be endorsing a candidate, once the field is established."

Rubio's Out, Santorum's In
()

Huntsman Joins in, Aims for NH
()


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 17, 2012, 06:35:30 AM
()
"America needs a champion for the middle class. President Obama has paved the way for progress an I intend to carry it on!"

Schweitzer, O'Malley Jump into the Race,
()

VEEP ENTRANCE
()
"I'm running for President of the United States!"

Democratic Contenders:
Biden: 24%
Warren: 19%
O'Malley: 15%
Schweitzer: 11%
Other: 31%


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 17, 2012, 09:24:32 AM
Enter The Big Guns
()

"Andrew Cuomo's entrance into the race, certainly shakes up the dynamics."

"The way I see it, this race for the Democrats is Elizabeth Warren and Andrew Cuomo, with Joe Biden barley coming in third. I will be surprised if makes it to Iowa."

"Biden is the establishment vote, and barley. He represents the Administration. Now Democrats, save for Elizabeth Warren are distancing themselves from the Obama Presidency. Cuomo represents a center left, Clinton type approach. I suspect, unless Hillary Clinton makes a rash decision to enter the race, the nomination goes to Cuomo."

"On the Republicans it's difficult to say. Christie was the early favorite, but his fall in 2013 hurts him going into the race if he enters."

"Right now you've got Santorum who's going nowhere. Rand Paul who recently announced, Jon Huntsman and maybe Jeb Bush who are appealing to the independents, disaffected Democrats and moderate Republicans."

Bobby Jindal for President:
()
"It is time for America to begin anew. To return to the principles of limited government, personal and fiscal responsibility...so I ask you to join with me in a fight to save America!"

()
Rick Perry endorses Bobby Jindal. "He has the chops to get America workin' again."

Ryan unveils The Blue Print for America, calls Obama and the Democrats "Disastrous"
()
"I've crafted a plan that I'm going to take around this country, educating the public and presenting my vision for America. It is one of unbounded prosperity, never before seen on this Earth."

Walker Endorses Ryan, calling him "The President America Deserves"

()
"I will not be running for President and will be endorsing Governor Jon Huntsman for President, on the basis of his campaign premise: Country First. That is the type of leadership America needs and frankly deserves."

Ayotte forges Reelection, Announces Campaign for President
()
"I bring a new and much needed perspective to the race and will to the White House if elected."

Enter Thune
()


Republican Nomination:
Jindal: 21%
Ryan: 20%
Ayotte: 15%
Thune: 12%
Huntsman: 11%
Paul: 7%
Santorum: 5%

Christie & Pawlenty still eye possible 2016 campaign

()
Clinton bows out, sighting family time and age. "It's time for new blood."


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Warren 4 Secretary of Everything on July 17, 2012, 01:48:08 PM
Cuomo or O'Malley 2012. I doubt we'll allow Warren to get anywhere near the nomination. And Biden is too old.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Niemeyerite on July 17, 2012, 06:58:28 PM
Rooting for Biden :) But I'd be glad with Warren, O'Malley and Schweitzer as nominees, too.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 17, 2012, 09:05:26 PM
Tough Talk
()
"I'm going to win this nomination! Join with me America! Join with me! Fight! Fight for what we've done! Fight for tomorrow. The America of Tomorrow!"

"The first cycle of fundraising numbers are in and this race has changed dramatically. Andrew Cuomo as expected is leading in the fundraising campaign, taking in $21.2 million last month. Governor O'Malley took in an impressive $17.4 million."

"The Vice President is the surprise one. He really stumbled and took in only $15.0 million. Despite the power of the office he is lagging behind."

"The Party is moving past him."

"Elizabeth Warren surprised me in terms of fundraising. She raised only $9.7 million."

"But add that to her war chest from 2012, and it's around $30 million."

"I think the one to watch is Brian Schweitzer, especially in Iowa."

"Can we expect a late entrance by Tim Kaine, or Mark Warner?"

"I'd doubt it. The only candidate who may enter is Deval Patrick, who has signaled he may enter the race."

()
"Yes, President Obama has been a failure as a President, but we're not running against him. We're running against a crop of candidates who want to continue the policies of him. The Vice President and Elizabeth Warren proudly say they're Obama Followers. Well I don't want followers leading this country. I want a President who actually knows how and can lead."

Patrick Endorses Warren, calling her a "Champion for the middle class."
()

Clinton Backs Cuomo.
()
"He's the forward thinking type of person we need in the White House again. I'm proud to call him a friend. I'm proud to call him my Governor, and I'm proud to call him the next President of The United States."

Democratic Nomination:
Cuomo: 29%
Biden: 20%
Warren: 16%
O'Malley: 16%
Schweitzer: 11%

"Cuomo is running away with the nomination."

"Biden's history. He'll be lucky to make it to Iowa."

Iowa Straw Poll: Paul Wins Straw Poll. Jindal and Ryan Tie for 2nd.
()

Paul: 29.9%
Jindal: 28.6%
Ryan: 28.6%
Thune: 5.8%
Ayotte: 3.0%
Santorum: 2.2%
Huntsman: 0.9%
Other: 1%

"Once again The Straw Poll proves it's irrelevance."

"Results?"

"Ryan, and Jindal are the top tier candidates and will be the two battling out for the nomination."

CNN BREAKING NEWS: Santorum Leaves the Race
()

()
"We're going forward. America is in need of help and Iowa proved we're up to the task."

Iowa Poll: Republicans August 2015
Jindal: 24%
Ryan: 24%
Thune: 19%
Paul: 18%
Ayotte: 10%
Huntsman: 2%

Democrats:
Cuomo: 27%
O'Malley: 25%
Biden: 19%
Schweitzer: 15%
Warren: 9%

New Hampshire: Republicans
Huntsman: 21%
Ayotte: 21%
Ryan: 17%
Paul: 15%
Jindal: 15%
Thune: 7%

Democrats:
Cuomo: 39%
O'Malley: 24%
Biden: 15%
Warren: 12%
Schweitzer: 7%

"Very shocked with the New Hampshire poll with Ayotte. She is the incumbent senator and is tied with Jon Huntsman with one 21% of the vote."

"Whoever wins the Iowa caucuses in my view will be the Republican nominee. New Hampshire is going to be moot this year."

()
"I don't care about the pundits or the polls. New Hampshire decides election and America we're going to win this nomination and win this election!"


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Warren 4 Secretary of Everything on July 17, 2012, 09:35:47 PM
I have a feeling Biden is gonna pull an upset. You're setting it up to be Cuomo as the Hillary Clinton front runner, but Biden or Schweitzer will pull an upset in Iowa. Democrats don't usually go for the next in line guy if there's an actuall field of candidates (2000 was an anomally). We skipped over Clinton in 08 and Lieberman in 04.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 17, 2012, 09:40:56 PM
Iowa Results: 2016

Turnout Larger Than Expected on Both Sides, Cuomo favored on Dem., Jindal close with Paul.
()

Results: Democrats
Cuomo: 27.3%
O'Malley: 24.0%
Schweitzer: 23.9%
Biden: 17.1%
Warren: 5.7%

"We can now project that Elizabeth Warren will finish fifth, and Vice President Biden will finish in fourth."
()
()

"We should note that Joe Biden is not even in Iowa tonight, but campaigning in New Hampshire."

"Does the President's endorsement help him?"

"Difficult to say. I think if he had come out strong and early, then yes, but now it's desperation."

Results: Republicans
Jindal: 28.5%
Paul: 25.7%
Thune: 22.9%
Ryan: 14.8%
Ayotte: 5.6%
Huntsman: 1.0%

"A close race between Paul and Jindal."

"The Paul Legion of supporters are enthused tonight and will be demanding Paul's acceptance."

"Ryan is the one who shocks me tonight. He's far behind in fourth, with Thune coming on strong."

"For the record Sen. Ayotte and Gov. Huntsman will finish fourth and fifth respectively, and Paul Ryan will finish third."

CNN BREAKING NEWS: O'MALLEY PASSES CUOMO, RACE TOO CLOSE

Top Tier:
O'Malley: 26.7%
Cuomo: 26.0%
Schweitzer: 25.5%

Ryan Doubles Down, Presses onto NH
()

Top Tier:
Jindal: 26.7%
Thune: 26.1%
Paul: 23.3%

"Paul has slipped to third, with Thune moving up to second place."

"This going to be a long night."

"2012, all over again"
CNN BREAKING NEWS: O'MALLEY WINS IOWA CAUCUSES

()
O'Malley: 27.0%
Cuomo: 25.8%
Schweitzer: 25.7%
Biden: 15.3%
Warren: 4.2%


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 18, 2012, 08:59:34 AM
John Thune Wins Iowa Caucuses
()
Thune: 26.8%
Jindal: 26.5%
Paul: 23.3%
Ryan: 15.0%
Ayotte: 5.5%
Huntsman: 1.0%

"Status of the race going forward?" -- John King

"On the Republican side Thune has the momentum, but it's Ayotte's state. So we'll wait and see." -- Alex Castellanos

"Jindal didn't lose badly, so he can recover, but Paul Ryan needs a game changer, otherwise he's done." -- James Carville

"For the Democrats, O'Malley has the momentum from Iowa and Cuomo is starting to look like Hillary from 2008." -- John  Avalon

"Is Biden done?" -- John King

"He's focused on NH, so he needs a good showing in the state, otherwise he's done."-- James Carville

CNN TALKING HEADS:

()
"I need your help New Hampshire! I'm the underdog in this race. Have been my whole life, and this race is no exception. So I ask for you to stand with me."

New Hampshire Poll: Democrats
O'Malley: 29%
Cuomo: 23%
Biden: 21%
Schweitzer: 17%
Warren: 8%

()
"I'd like Mr. Thune to explain his vote for the 2008  Bank Bailout. Is a Conservative, or a rank and file Republican?"

()
"John Thune has tucked away hundreds of millions in earmarks. He's got some explaining to do. He's Mr. Politics First and Mr. Senator Second."

New Hampshire: Republicans
Ayotte: 27%
Huntsman: 23%
Thune: 16%
Paul: 14%
Ryan: 12%
Jindal: 6%

()
"Let's get America working and let's start the campaign right here in NH

"Paul Ryan is fighting for his political life in NH, and Bobby Jindal has written off the state to focus on South Carolina." -- John King

"The trouble is Ryan can easily be targeted if he's the nominee for his proposed plan. John Thune has a voting record that is difficult to explain." --- Alex Castellanos

"Thune is the John Kerry of 2016, if he's nominated. The only hope for him is that he's a fresh face and the American people generally don't let one party dominate the White House for more than eight years." -- James Carville

"If Biden wins the nomination, which I still say is doubtful it's going to be O'Malley. Cuomo got dealt a devastating blow in Iowa, even though it was a narrow loss, he was the one who proclaimed Iowa would be the deciding factor. He jumped the gun." -- John Avalon

"Is Huntsman's a factor?" -- John King

"He might win New Hampshire and if he does he'll spin it as giving him the momentum, but I don't see how he wins the nomination when he's at odds with the likes of Hannity and Limbaugh." -- John Avalon

"Then's there's Paul." -- John King

"Like his father Rand Paul is a fringe candidate and will be gone soon."
-- Donna Brazile

()
"He was arguably the most conservative governor, from the most conservative state, and yet he is given no respect. He's can unite the country."

()
"People keep spinning The Huntsman candidate and if he wins New Hampshire he's all setup for victory. Some of the party elites like this guy, but look we went with the mormon in 2012 and look how it turned out."

()
"New Hampshire has a knack for picking President and I'm asking you to send me to the White House!"


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: tmthforu94 on July 18, 2012, 10:54:26 AM
My only suggestion - state before each quote who's making a statement. It would make it easier to read.

Other than that, very realistic. I'm going to nitpick, though, as you know I'm not doing this out of hate, as I love your timelines. ;) :P Why would Ayotte drop out after Iowa, considering she's focusing everything on New Hampshire? It just doesn't make sense to me.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Jerseyrules on July 18, 2012, 11:18:36 AM
nitpick:

Dems retake the house?!  The f---k?!!!!


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 18, 2012, 04:16:25 PM
My only suggestion - state before each quote who's making a statement. It would make it easier to read.

Other than that, very realistic. I'm going to nitpick, though, as you know I'm not doing this out of hate, as I love your timelines. ;) :P Why would Ayotte drop out after Iowa, considering she's focusing everything on New Hampshire? It just doesn't make sense to me.

You know originally I wanted to have her out fearing a defeat in NH, but I've amended the timeline. Ayotte remains.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 18, 2012, 04:40:58 PM
NH Primary: Republicans

"The polls were right in the predicted winner, but wrong on the amount. Kelly Ayotte will win the New Hampshire Primary tonight, by a wide margin." -- John King

()

Ayotte: 48.9%
Huntsman: 14.2%
Thune: 12.0%
Paul: 9.9%
Ryan: 8.4%
Jindal: 5.6%

"Huntsman's number are really crushing, he'll be done after tonight. Bobby Jindal wrote off the state so he'll live to fight another day. Rand Paul was never going anywhere. Ryan has a lot of thinking to do, and John Thune will make it to South Carolina, but he's lost the momentum from Iowa." -- Alex Castellanos

"What of Kelly Ayotte?" -- John King.

"Yes, it's her home state, but I think this win helps cement her as the establishment favorite. Unless Thune or Ryan makes a turn around this is a Jindal and Ayotte race."

"We are getting word that tonight Jon Huntsman will end his campaign, but will not be making an endorsement...now back to the state of the race. Does being Romney's Vice Presidential choice in 2012 hurt her? " -- John King.

"It does with the Tea Party wing, but I think we've seen the focus and strength of that movement fade and die out. With Thune's win in Iowa I think we are seeing the end of the Tea Party's strength." --- John Avalon


"In the Democratic Race, it is still too close to be called. It is a close fight between O'Malley and Biden, who has made a surprising comeback." -- John King.

"He is the Vice President, so there is weight after that. If he does win New Hampshire, he will have the momentum going forward and may, may win the nomination." -- Donna Brazile


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: tmthforu94 on July 18, 2012, 09:23:27 PM
Very nice update! :) Thank you for taking my suggestions.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 18, 2012, 09:31:43 PM
Very nice update! :) Thank you for taking my suggestions.

Anytime, and I like where it's going b/c of it.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 19, 2012, 06:44:10 AM
CNN: DEMOCRATIC RACE TOO CLOSE
()

O'Malley: 26.9%
Biden: 25.8%
Cuomo: 21.1%
Schweitzer: 16.4%
Warren: 7.8%

"A close race between Martin O'Malley and the Vice President." -- John King.

"A tough one for Andrew Cuomo, who many saw as the inevitable nominee, but tonight's results are proving that this campaign is over." -- James Carville

"Can the party rally around Joe Biden?" -- John King.

"Yes, but I think the enthusiasm is with other candidates, Joe Biden is too connected with the Obama Administration." -- James Carville.

"Look, President Obama's approval rating currently is at fifty percent, the economy is chugging along, this race is winnable for the Democrats with the right candidate and message." -- John Avalon.

()
"I am ending my bid for the White House and endorsing Sen. Kelly Ayotte to be the nominee of our party and next President of the United States."

"A surprise endorsement by Paul Ryan." -- John King.

"We knew he'd be out after a poor showing tonight, but I think there is a growing consensus around Kelly Ayotte as the candidate to nominate. She has a stellar voting record, she has the name recognition, and she's a woman." -- Alex Castellanos

"That maybe true, but if you put her up against any of our Democratic candidates it's going to be a wash for the Republicans. She's too rightwing. -- Donna Brazile.

"CNN is just learning that the Associated Press has called the race in New Hampshire for Governor O'Malley, but we are not yet comfortable to make a projection yet, because of the closeness." -- John King.

11:28

CNN BREAKING NEWS: BIDEN WINS NH PRIMARY

()
Biden: 26.6%
O'Malley: 26.2%
Cuomo: 21.9%
Schweitzer: 16.4%
Warren: 7.8%

HEADLINES:

Politico: NH: Ayotte's Landslide; Biden's Squeaker
NYT: Enter Biden, Exit Cuomo
Boston Globe: Cuomo: The Once and Unlikely

South Carolina: Republicans
Jindal: 28%
Ayotte: 27%
Thune: 23%
Paul: 15%
Undecided: 7%

South Carolina: Democrats
Biden: 30%
O'Malley: 24%
Cuomo: 19%
Schweitzer: 18%
Undecided: 9%

"Governor Cuomo is vowing to remain in the race, but we are getting word from his campaign that he maybe dropping out after his dismal showing in New Hampshire." -- John King.

"Well Elizabeth Warren has dropped out, Cuomo will probably be the next to go. Unless Brian Schweitzer pulls some victory in South Carolina, this is a Biden and O'Malley race." -- James Carville

O'Malley hits the trail in South Carolina
()
"I respect the Vice President, but we need to look to the future, we need new ideas, new energies."

Christie backs Ayotte
()
"Get out there South Carolina, get out there and see that this woman is victorious in this primary and is the next President of the United States!"


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Warren 4 Secretary of Everything on July 19, 2012, 07:10:47 AM
I hope Cuomo makes a comeback. Biden is too old o be the nominee. O'Malley or Schweitzer are cool though. Biden would've been great 20 years ago, but he's like 73 in 2016.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 19, 2012, 08:32:38 AM
()
"I'll say it: The Vice President is not up to the task of being President, and I believe if nominated he'll sink the party against Ayotte, Jindal or Thune. I can take them on and I can win!"

"This new attitude by Governor Cuomo is by energizing and potentially damaging. In-fighting is never good for a party, and our party seems to always bear the brunt of it when it does occur." -- James Carville.

"Cuomo wants the nomination. He went from first to second in Iowa and then to third in New Hampshire. He sees South Carolina as his last stand. He got Schweitzer on his tail and O'Malley and Biden ahead." -- John Avalon

Too Old?
()
"Vice President Joe Biden caught napping on job, following a ceremony at the White House today, prompting speculation about his age and bringing up the question, should he be President?"

()
"Biden's been sleeping on the job for eight years, let's not encourage it for four more!"

()
"Look the camera caught him at a bad time, so I'm not going to jump all over him for it, but it does make me wonder if he is up to the task of running and possibly leading as President."

Is Biden too Old to be President?
Yes: 55%
No: 35%

Clinton stumps for Cuomo in Charlotte
()
"Make him the comeback kid South Carolina."

Haley's Surprise: Endorses Ayotte
()

O'Malley and Cuomo fight for 1st in SC
South Carolina: Democrats
O'Malley: 29%
Cuomo: 27%
Biden: 21%
Schweitzer: 20%

The Comeback Kid
()
Cuomo: 31%
O'Malley: 27%
Schweitzer: 22%
Biden: 18%

Republican Race Too Close To Call
Jindal: 30%
Ayotte: 28%
Thune: 23%
Paul: 17%

"A comeback for Andrew Cuomo, and he lives to fight another day." -- John King.

"Biden's fourth place finish, ends his campaign. O'Malley and Cuomo will be battling out in Nevada next, then Florida. Schweitzer could pull an upset in Nevada, but it's either going to be Cuomo or O'Malley." -- Donna Brazile.

"In South Carolina, Ayotte and Jindal are battling it out, with Thune trailing in third." -- Alex Castellanos.

"And looking at the numbers now, Senator Ayotte has taken the lead over Bobby Jindal, in a state many thought he'd win easily." -- John King.

Ayotte: 30%
Jindal: 29%
Thune: 24%
Paul: 16%

"Now it appears Governor Jindal has reclaimed the lead, and it's building." -- John King.

Jindal: 33%
Ayotte: 29%
Thune: 22%
Paul: 14%

Bobby Jindal Triumphs in South Carolina
()
Jindal: 35%
Ayotte: 29%
Thune: 20%
Paul: 13%

Florida Poll: Democrats
Cuomo: 33%
O'Malley: 24%
Schweitzer: 21%
Biden: 19%

Biden Backs Cuomo
()
"My bid has come to an end, but I am backing a man who will rally our party and ride us to victory in November and that is Governor Cuomo."


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Warren 4 Secretary of Everything on July 19, 2012, 09:15:35 AM
O'Malley's gonna win. Except for 1988 and 1992 (Iowa Senator Tom Harkin ran, so it doesn't count) whoever win Iowa on the Democratic side usually gets the nomination.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Del Tachi on July 19, 2012, 02:54:07 PM
I am very much enjoying this timeline...AYOTTE 2016!!!


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 19, 2012, 04:50:58 PM
Florida Republican Poll:
Jindal: 35%
Ayotte: 33%
Thune: 18%
Paul: 10%


Head-to-Head Matchup:
Ayotte v. Cuomo:
Ayotte: 46%
Cuomo: 46

Ayotte v. O'Malley:
Ayotte: 47%
O'Malley: 44%

Jindal v. Cuomo:
Jindal: 43%
Cuomo: 45%

Jindal v. O'Malley:
Jindal: 45%
O'Malley: 46%


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 21, 2012, 07:19:56 AM
Paul, Schweitzer Wins Nevada
()
Paul: 30.0%
Thune: 28.7%
Ayotte: 24.8%
Jindal: 14.5%

Schweitzer: 44.6%
O'Malley: 33.8%
Cuomo: 21.5%

Rubio Backs Ayotte; "The Agent of Change for America"
()
"I had the honor of being in the freshman class when we arrived in the Senate back in 2011. I've watched lead in any capacity and have no reservations. Senator Ayotte must be the next President of the United States of America."

Florida Republicans
()
Ayotte Triumphs in Florida
Ayotte: 34.8%
Jindal: 32.0%
Thune: 21.4%
Paul: 9.8%

Cuomo Beats O'Malley
()
Cuomo: 47. 7%
O'Malley: 30.5%
Schweitzer: 19.8%

"Ayotte's now won two of the four contests, and a big state like Florida helps her going into Super Tuesday." -- John Avalon.

"What about Rand Paul?" -- John King.

"Rand Paul's win in Nevada a few weeks ago changes nothing." -- James Carville.

"Andrew Cuomo was the big winner tonight in Florida, how does do going forward?" -- John King.

"Cuomo took off the gloves and hammered him. Let's see what changes on Super Tuesday. I suspect Cuomo is not going squash this momentum." -- James Carville.

GOP MAP: States Won
(
)
Ayotte: NH, FL
Thune: IA
Paul: NV
Jindal: SC

Democrats Map: States Won
(
)
Cuomo: SC, FL
O'Malley: IA
Schweitzer: NV
Biden: NH

Super Tuesday:
OK
MO
CO
NM
MN
MI
IN
MT
NJ
ME
CT
MA
RI
VT
VA
MS
AL
GA
AR
LA
AK
IL
MD
DE
DC
NE
SD

Ayotte:
VT, CT, RI, MA, ME NJ, IN, MN, MI, IL, VA

Jindal:
LA, AR, GA, MS, AL, MO, NM, OK

Thune:
CO, NE, SD, MT

Paul:
AK

Republican Map: States Won on Super Tuesday
(
)

Cuomo:
NM, NJ, CT, RI, MA, VT, ME, MO, OK, GA, AR, AL, MS, CO, IN, LA

O'Malley:
VA, MD, DE, DC,  MI, MN, AK

Schweitzer:
MT, SD, NE

Democrat Map: States Won on Super Tuesday
(
)


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Warren 4 Secretary of Everything on July 21, 2012, 08:47:03 AM
Ayotte better not beat out Hillary for first female president. Jindal needs to make a come back, and quick.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Snowstalker Mk. II on July 21, 2012, 08:50:53 AM
I see we have rather similar timelines. :P

Great job though; this is easily your best yet.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 23, 2012, 05:59:30 AM
Schweitzer Ends Bid, Backs O'Malley

O'Malley Hits Cuomo, calls his a "closet conservative."
()

()
"He is grasping at straws. It's sad, but true. Next week Arizona and Pennsylvania have their say, and if we win those two I believe our momentum will be unstoppable.

"The race between O'Malley and Cuomo is getting extreme. Both could hurt the party's chances in November if they don't knock it off." -- James Carville.


Pennsylvania: Democrats

Cuomo's Slam dunk
()
Cuomo: 51.9%
O'Malley: 47.6%

Arizona: Democrats
Cuomo: 54.4%
O'Malley: 44.3%

Arizona: Republicans
()
Jindal: 50.0%
Ayotte: 36.6%
Thune: 11.4%

Pennsylvania: Republicans (Too Close)
Ayotte: 44.6%
Jindal: 42.4%
Thune: 12.1%


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 23, 2012, 11:36:53 AM
Ayotte's Photo Finish
Pennsylvania:
Ayotte: 44.0%
Jindal: 42.9%
Thune: 12.1%

The Icing on the Cake; Obama Endorses Cuomo
()
"We as a party must rally behind Governor Cuomo and come together. Not when there is still much to do. Not when we have families to look out for, and health care to keep in tact. To build an economy for all Americans, not those at the very top. I ask you to join with me and support this man, Andrew Cuomo, the next President of the United States."

"Obama certainly puts a lot on the line by endorsing Cuomo, but I think he looks at it from this point. He has the momentum and he wants to play the king maker. He reportedly met with both men and made his decision to endorse Governor Cuomo a few days ago. This is about his legacy more than anything." -- James Carville.

"On the Republican side, Ayotte has won Pennsylvania. Now with Thune dropping out and endorsing Ayotte there is a building momentum for Jindal to step aside. Now there are some more states left like Texas and North Carolina, but even if he wins, Ayotte's lead is growing bigger, not smaller." -- Alex Castellanos.

New York, Ohio, Texas:

"CNN projects that Andrew Cuomo will win New York by a landslide. Adding to that he will sweep the states of Texas and Ohio tonight." -- John King

New York:
Cuomo: 83.5%
O'Malley: 16.4%

Texas:
Cuomo: 67.9%
O'Malley: 31.1%

Ohio:
Cuomo: 60.0%
O'Malley: 38.9%

Closing the Deal?
()
Cuomo Beams after triumphing in all three contests, but O'Malley presses on.

New York: Republicans
Ayotte: 66.2%
Jindal: 33.1%

Ohio: Too Close to Call
Ayotte: 50.0%
Jindal: 49.4%

Texas:
Jindal: 58.8%
Ayotte: 40.2%

"All eyes are on Ohio as Senator Ayotte and Governor Jindal battle it out." -- John King

()
Ayotte pulls out a win in Ohio, calls it: "The Changing Point in the Campaign."
Ohio:
Ayotte: 50.2%
Jindal: 49.0%

CNN BREAKING NEWS: O'MALLEY MEETS WITH CUOMO
()
"We'll be talking again in a few more days."

"At this point it seems that Governor O'Malley sees the writing on the wall and is getting out, possibly looking for one of three things. A spot on the ticket, a cabinet post, or having Cuomo help retire some of his campaign debt. Either way he's done." -- James Carville.

O'MALLEY BIDS ADIEU
()
"My campaign is over. Now is the time to come together and unite for victory with Governor Cuomo as a our candidate and defeat whoever the radical Republicans put up against us, be it Ayotte or Jindal. We'll win in November."

Jindal Heads to NC, WV, KY and TN; Ayotte looks to Wrap it Up
()
"We're still in this fight. Senator Ayotte would be wise to focus on the upcoming primary states, than looking at transitioning to the White House."

GOP NOMINATION::
Ayotte: 50%
Jindal: 47%

()
"I've kept quiet as long as I could, but I feel I must intervene for the sake of the party in November. I am endorsing Bobby Jindal for President. We don't need another northeastern, moderate Republican. We lost in 2012, we'll lose in 2016. When are we going to wake up!"

()
"We as a country have a stark choice in November, but presently we as a party have a choice to make for November. Either we go the conservative root, or we go with someone who tries to hide the fact that she is a conservative. She prefers to drop the association and I ask you, is that the type of candidate we want going up against Cuomo in November?"

Jindal v. Cuomo
Cuomo: 48%
Jindal: 44%

Ayotte v. Cuomo
Cuomo: 46%
Ayotte: 44%

Who is More Conservative?
Jindal: 52%
Ayotte: 46%

Obama Approval Rating:
Approve: 50%
Disapprove: 39%

3 Battleground States: Ayotte v. Cuomo

Ohio:
Cuomo: 48%
Ayotte: 46%

Florida:
Ayotte: 46%
Cuomo: 45%

Virginia:
Ayotte: 49%
Cuomo: 44%

3 Battleground States: Jindal v. Cuomo

Ohio:
Cuomo: 49%
Jindal: 44%

Florida:
Cuomo: 46%
Jindal: 46%

Virginia:
Jindal: 49%
Cuomo: 44%


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Warren 4 Secretary of Everything on July 23, 2012, 12:36:32 PM
3 Battleground States: Ayotte v. Cuomo

Ohio:
Cuomo: 48%
Ayotte: 46%

Florida:
Ayotte: 46%
Cuomo: 45%

Virginia:
Ayotte: 49%
Cuomo: 44%

3 Battleground States: Jindal v. Cuomo

Ohio:
Cuomo: 49%
Jindal: 44%

Florida:
Cuomo: 46%
Jindal: 46%

Virginia:
Jindal: 49%
Cuomo: 44%
[/quote]

I doubt Cuomo would be ahead in Ohio by 5 against Jindal but be behind by 5 in Virginia. Virginia is more to the left than Ohio. The same with Ayotte. Ahead by 2 in Ohio, but down 5 in Virginia. I think the GOP should be farther ahead in Florida. Out of the current swing states, North Carolina and Florida are the most GOP friendly. And Virginia is the most democratic.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 24, 2012, 11:09:36 AM
West Virginia:
Jindal: 57.9%
Ayotte: 42.0%

Kentucky:
Jindal: 59.9%
Ayotte: 39.1%

Tennessee:
Jindal: 57.6%
Ayotte: 42.3%

()
Jindal Scores Important Victories

Crunch Time for Ayotte
()

"Ayotte lost the momentum with those three loses, now she did have some wins in Wyoming and Idaho over the weekend, but the focus is on North Carolina and Wisconsin next week." -- John King

"Ayotte needs to win both, not one, otherwise Jindal could sweep the rest of the states and force a brokered convention." -- Alex Castellanos.

()
"Senator Ayotte is an honorable person, but she is unreliable. An unreliable conservative. She's likely to broker a deal with Democrats and we can't take that chance."

()
North Carolina:
"I don't know if Governor Jindal is looking to play politics, or if he really believes the lies he spreads. He calls me unreliable. Listen to what comes out of his mouth. Stop the attacks Governor and let's focus on the issues, because all you're doing is giving Andrew Cuomo the keys to the White House."

North Carolina:
Ayotte: 50.0%
Jindal: 49.5%

Wisconsin:
Ayotte: 53.3%
Jindal: 46.2%

()
Ayotte's Comeback

CNN BREAKING NEWS: JINDAL TALKS OF SUSPENDING CAMPAIGN; MEETS WITH AYOTTE

"Governor Jindal is going to suspend his campaign, but we are learning that he is meeting with Senator Ayotte."



Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Del Tachi on July 24, 2012, 12:37:35 PM
Ayotte/Jindal?

Seems unlikely after Jindal's comments.

The funny thing is that Senator Ayotte is by no means even a half-way "moderate" Senator.

She is one of the, umm, "nicer" ones though ;)


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 24, 2012, 03:38:29 PM

The funny thing is that Senator Ayotte is by no means even a half-way "moderate" Senator.

She is one of the, umm, "nicer" ones though ;)

Agreed.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Jerseyrules on July 24, 2012, 04:25:44 PM
More please ;)


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 25, 2012, 06:25:26 AM
AYOTTE ENDS CAMPAIGN; VEEP TALK BEGINS

"Ayotte won't pick Jindal, but she will pick someone who will serve as a nice compliment to her." -- Alex Castellanos

"Andrew Cuomo has indicated that his shortlist includes three people: O'Malley, Schweitzer and Patrick." -- Donna Brazil

AYOTTE: PROSPECTIVE VP LIST
John Thune
Rand Paul
Tim Pawlenty
Nikki Haley
Jon Huntsman
Scott Brown
Paul Ryan
Mike Pence
Jeb Bush


()
"I am proud to have join me on the ticket, the next Vice President of the United States, Martin O' Malley."
()


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Jerseyrules on July 25, 2012, 03:05:16 PM
Interesting.  Ayotte/Paul 2016!


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 26, 2012, 07:11:31 AM
Matchup:
Cuomo/O' Malley: 46%
Ayotte/ VP: 45%

"This is going to be a close race, I think even closer than 2012. You have to very strong, very competitive candidates." -- John Avalon.

"People seem to be more excited about this election than 2012 and I think it's because of the ability of these candidates to inspire or rally people to their cause. The Obama-Romney Race was not like that. It was a race of I'm slightly better than him so vote for me." -- James Carville

"We have a projected battleground state map at this time and it does illustrate the closeness of this race between Senator Ayotte and Governor Cuomo." -- John King

(
)
Ayotte: 228
Cuomo: 197

"There are a fair number of states in play. Ayotte has a slight lead in the electoral vote." -- John King

(
)
Obama: 272
Romney: 266

"The results from four years ago produced a narrow Obama victory, and for Cuomo to duplicate that he needs to carry all those states, but with New Hampshire out of the running, and even if he carries all of the Obama states, minus New Hampshire, he only reaches 268 electoral votes." 00 John King.

"The map seems to be favored in Ayotte's favor this cycle. Now despite what conservatives barked, after Romney lost in 2012, he did help reclaim the GOP stake in the states of Ohio, Virginia and Florida." -- John Avalon.

"Cuomo's victory lies in the west. He needs to carry what Obama carried: Colorado, Nevada and New Mexico, and then pick up Arizona and he gets 279, without New Hampshire, but that is assuming he is able to carry all the Obama states like Michigan, Wisconsin and Iowa." -- Donna Brazile.

"This is a fifty-fifty election. I think Ayotte has a slight edge because we've had a Democrat for eight years, and the American people usually tire of one party rule after eight years." -- Alex Castellanos.

"Also, with Barack Obama, we've now had three back-to-back two term Presidents, something that hasn't happened since Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and James Monroe." -- James Carville.

"Onto the Vice Presidential Selection, some sources have indicated that it is narrowed down to three people, one is Marco Rubio." -- John King.

"Rubio would be a stellar pick for Ayotte. He's done a great job in the senate, he's an eloquent speaker, he's young and he helps with a major voting block that has eluded the GOP since Bush in '04." -- Alex Castellanos.

"More than likely she'll pick a governor, someone with executive experience to compliment her senatorial experience." -- John Avalon.

"Any game changers?" -- John King.

"Nikki Haley would be one, maybe Jeb Bush, but I don't see this having a great impact outside of assuring her base of support." -- James Carville.

()
"Governor Cuomo represents what we've seen for eight years. More spending, more taxes, more government. He truly embodies more of the same. He masks himself as a fiscal conservative, but the truth is he's Barack Obama's best friend."

"Is it smart to tie Cuomo to Barack Obama?" -- John King.

"We'll see. Barack Obama's approval rating stands in the mid forties. The economy is sluggish with 7.0% unemployment. It's a gamble and like what Obama did with Bush in 2008 it may work." -- Alex Castellanos.

()
"The Republicans are the first to call the shots of negativity, but I'm going to stick to the high road and focus on the issues of growing our economy for the middle class, bringing down healthcare costs, reforming eduction and bringing us into the 21st century. There's much to do, and I hope Senator Ayotte will join me and crafting a campaign for the American people, so there will be a choice in November.
Now The Republicans are trying to make me out as Barack Obama, a boogeyman, a Democrat version of George Bush. Let's get real, Barack Obama is not like George Bush, and while I respect and admire our President, I am not our President. I am my own person and will lead on my accords."

POLITICO HEADLINE: VP PICK LOOMS FOR AYOTTE


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Warren 4 Secretary of Everything on July 26, 2012, 03:11:44 PM
I'm really like this timeline. Great job!

I seriously don't wanna be like Winfield and be hackish, but Michigan, Wisconsin, and Maine are toss-ups and Florida, North Carolina, and Missouri leaning Republican? That's kinda weird.
I don't think Maine would feel that much of a "favorite-son" effect for Ayotte if Cuomo is also running. I think a more accurate Cuomo vs Ayotte map would look like this:
(
)


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 26, 2012, 04:52:36 PM
I'm really like this timeline. Great job!

I seriously don't wanna be like Winfield and be hackish, but Michigan, Wisconsin, and Maine are toss-ups and Florida, North Carolina, and Missouri leaning Republican.
I don't think Maine would feel that much of a "favorite-son" effect for Ayotte if Cuomo is also running. I think a more accurate Cuomo vs Ayotte map would look like this:
(
)

No offense taken. Glad you're enjoying it, and I like your map.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Jerseyrules on July 26, 2012, 07:41:32 PM
Speaking of Maine, is Angus King now senator there?  Who has he endorsed in 16?  How does it look for Congressional elections this year?  Ayotte/Paul or Ayotte/Rice 16!  (I'm changing my preference to rice.  Paul can get more done in the senate anyway)


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: GLPman on July 26, 2012, 08:02:19 PM
Great so far, keep it coming!


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 26, 2012, 08:45:03 PM
Speaking of Maine, is Angus King now senator there?  Who has he endorsed in 16?  How does it look for Congressional elections this year?  Ayotte/Paul or Ayotte/Rice 16!  (I'm changing my preference to rice.  Paul can get more done in the senate anyway)

King is in the Senate and endorsed Cuomo. The Congressional Elections favor the GOP narrowly.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 26, 2012, 09:03:25 PM
Polling: July 2016

Ayotte v. Cuomo:
Cuomo: 47%
Ayotte: 46%

()
"America's future rests in the small businesses.We must again be a place that encourages and welcomes, not stifles it from succeeding."

AYOTTE TO ANNOUNCE VICE PRESIDENT ANY DAY
"According to sources, Senator Ayotte has been keeping her pick close to the chest, with only her inner most circle knowing the selection. Our sources indicate that Ayotte's list has been narrowed down to three prospective candidates that includes: Marco Rubio, John Thune and Tim Pawlenty." -- John King

"Rubio has repeatedly stated he's not going to be the candidate. Now politics is the art of double talk, but I don't see Senator Ayotte picking another senator. It's going to be a governor, someone with executive experience; that's why I'm looking at Tim Pawlenty as a strong possibility." -- Alex Castellanos.

AYOTTE TO ANNOUNCE VP IN NEW HAMPSHIRE

"...for eight years we've seen a president waffle and lead America into an economic slump that we've still have yet to dig out. The President calls his economic plan a success, but look around, businesses shutdown, homes foreclosed, unemployment skyrockets and dreams dashed. The vision I am laying out for America is one of renewed strength, hope and optimism. A vision that unite all Americans, Democrats and Republicans alike. For at the end of each day we are not members of a political party, but members of one family, the American family, and together we can and frankly must succeed. So as my pick for Vice President of the United States I have selected a person who has sought to stay away from the fray of politics, but instead serve the public good. This person's credentials and experience speak for themselves, and I have no doubt about this person's ability to serve with me as Vice President and to assume the Presidency if need be.

For America's comeback team, ready to tackle the challenges reek the rewards of the 21st, I present to you the next Vice President of the United States, Former Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice."







()


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 27, 2012, 07:08:33 PM
If The Election Were Held Today, Who Would You Vote For?
Ayotte/Rice: 46%
Cuomo/O'Malley: 44%

"Is Rice the game changer for Ayotte or does this race remain tight up until the end?" -- John King.

"I think Rice changes the game entirely, because now you have the first all female ticket for President and Vice President." -- Alex Castellanos.

"I think Rice is a game changer to use that redundant phrase, but I also have to believe that there are some in the Republican base who are not to thrilled with Secretary Rice, considering her position on abortion." -- Donna Brazile.

"Is it enough to stop her from being nominated?" -- John King

"No, but there is the hypothetical concern about some voters in the base staying home, but I think this ticket is going to energize the party and energize the country, because we are potentially looking at history and people want to be apart of that." -- Alex Castellanos.

"In the latest poll Senator Ayotte leads Governor Cuomo by two points, whereas last week she was trailing by one to two, judging by the polls. So we'll see." -- John King.


Republican National Convention: RICE NOMINATED BY ACCLAMATION;
Conventions readies for her historic speech.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Warren 4 Secretary of Everything on July 27, 2012, 07:34:23 PM
Rice was a great pick. This timeline is getting better and better. I wish O'Malley hadn't been chosen though. A New York Democrat and a Maryland Democrat is a bad ticket. Schweitzer would have been better than O'Malley. But I can see Ayotte-Rice beating Cuomo-O'Malley pretty badly. There goes our chances at 16 years in the White House.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 28, 2012, 06:25:03 AM
()
Throughout my career in public life I have shunned electoral politics, believing it brought a person down and that nothing could be accomplished, yet I refuse to shun a call to serve our country, and when I received a phone call from the woman who will make history and become the next President of The United States, I said 'Senator, It would be a privilege and so here I am tonight, filled with humility and gratitude in accepting your nomination for Vice President of The United States...

I was a Democrat, at one point in my life, but the foreign policy of Jimmy Carter broke me away from the Democrat and as well as my father's influence. But the policies under President Carter I saw America grow weaker and less respected in the world, and then came Ronald Reagan. Ronald Reagan not only believed in America's strength at home, but he believed in it abroad as well. A strong America will deter enemies from attacking the foundations of liberty and freedom across the globe. America must not be small in a world so large, America must stand tall and represent the last best hope of man on earth.

I see similarities in Governor Cuomo's foreign policy. He advocates for a weaker America, and sadly he advocates an America that we've seen for the last eight years. Frankly everything Governor Cuomo is offering is a repeat of the last four years. So I ask you does America want four more years of a failed foreign policy that diminishes America's strength, respect and prestige in the world? Does America need four more years of failed economic policy that's only solution is more government spending and higher taxes? If the answer is yes, then the obvious vote is for Governor Cuomo, but if the answer is no, as I suspect all in this room believe and many across this country believe as well, then I suggest another candidate for the office. Stand with me and support the next President of The United States, Kelly Ayotte. Let's make history, let's keep America strong and let us be the party that is welcoming to every America, one of big, bold, bright colors, not pale pastels.

Thank you all so very much, God Bless you God Bless The United States of America."



"She hit it out of the park." -- Alex Castellanos.

"A powerful speech. I don't agree with Ms. Rice on much, but tonight I was filled with great pride watching her speak and it made me realize how far the Republican party has come. Tonight we watched the first African-American female accept the nomination to run for Vice President, along with the first woman to be nominated by a major party for President. This is a great night for America." -- Donna Brazile

"Do you expect a large bounce for The Ayotte/Rice ticket?" -- John King.

"I would suspect they'll have a considerable lead after the convention is over. Most analyst were saying tonight might deliver the biggest viewing of a convention speech after President Obama in 2008." -- John Avalon.

"Actually it was John McCain, but who's counting?" -- Alex Castellanos

Viewership for Convention Speeches:
Condoleezza Rice: 41.8 million
John McCain: 38.9 million
Barack Obama: 38.4 million
Sarah Palin: 37 million

Headline: RICE DELIVERS

Map as of August 31st:
(
)
Ayotte: 239
Cuomo: 216
Tossup: 83

Excerpt of Battleground State Polls:

Florida:
Ayotte/Rice: 49%
Cuomo/O'Malley: 45%

North Carolina:
Ayotte/Rice: 50%
Cuomo/O'Malley: 45%

Ohio:
Cuomo/O'Malley: 45.5%
Ayotte/Rice: 45.0%

Virginia:
Ayotte/Rice: 46.4%
Cuomo/O'Malley: 46.2%%

Michigan:
Cuomo/O'Malley: 48%
Ayotte/Rice: 45%

Wisconsin: *Host of Democratic Convention
Cuomo/O'Malley: 47%
Ayotte/Rice: 44%

Nevada: * Host of Republican Convention
Cuomo/O'Malley: 46.8%
Ayotte/Rice: 46.2%


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 29, 2012, 05:13:24 PM
()
Condoleezza Rice is a historic pick and I praise Senator Ayotte and the Republican Party for coming out of the dark ages and going with a different direction with their presidential ticket. The party has finally come into the 21st century, but the candidates' proposals are back in the dark ages. Governor Cuomo stands by his commitment to protect the President's signature health care law, his commitment to education and seeing that those at the top give back their fair share. Governor Cuomo represents America's future and Senator Ayotte America's past. It's a clear and stark contrast for the nation to make."



Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 29, 2012, 10:14:05 PM
()

"Fellow delegates, distinguished guest, and fellow citizens of this great country, I stand before tonight with a heart filled with pride and deep humility and without reservation and without question I accept your nomination for the presidency... I stand here tonight making history and I do not take it lightly. My candidacy opens the doors to a new day for this country, and tonight America we can say we've nearly cracked the highest glass ceiling and on November we will finally shatter the glass and make history, giving a new era of hope, optimism not just for women, but for every America...I am running as woman, yes, but I am running as a wife, a mother, a daughter, a senator, a citizen and one who deeply loves their country and is fighting to see that America remains the land that gave me and so many others the opportunity to succeed and rise to achieve our dreams...

We were a nation that prided ourselves on hard work, determination and commitment to ideals and principles. I want to make that America possible again. I want to revive it. I want to let go the innovators and dreamers and allow them to rise to their potential. I want an unbounded American return. A new era of prosperity never before seen on our soil, and tonight let it be the first step towards that era...

The goal of my administration is not to criticize the few and forget the many, or as my opponents jab forget the many and reward the few. I am standing up for every single American. I want to see every American be able to rise to their full potential. I offer to America a fresh start, a new beginning, and tonight America I ask you to begin that journey with me.

I wish my opponent Governor Cuomo the best of luck on the campaign ahead, we will have a meeting the minds and ideas, and we will present a clear path for America, for the people to chose. I will not levy a negative attack on my opponent, I will stick to the issues and present a campaign of ideas, not slanders. Of visions, not double talk. The voters will make their voice in November, and the choice is their's to make. My vision for America is simple. An embrace of free markets, lower taxes, less spending and less government in our lives and business. An adherence to the constitution, and a foreign policy that makes sense and ensures a strong and steady America. Those are the pillars of my campaign and will be the pillars of my administration.

I pledge to you tonight I will work tirelessly to earn your vote and if elected will work tirelessly for you, all to the best of my ability, so help me God. 

Post-Convention Poll:
Ayotte/Rice: 49%
Cuomo/O'Malley: 45%

"Cuomo's a terrific candidate for the Democrats. He represents a break from Obama, without directly criticizing Obama. He's liberal for the liberals, but moderate enough for the moderates and independents. He's perfect. The problem is he's running against history, a bad mix. The Ayotte/Rice ticket is dynamite, The Cuomo/O'Malley ticket is strong. It's hard to say who wins, because I do believe it is a close race and we shouldn't be wavered by conventions polls, because Cuomo will have a lead next week, but I think the edge goes to Ayotte." -- Alex Castellanos

"Ayotte and Rice are like the sun, Cuomo and O'Malley are like a bright lightbulb. Something that is so shinny and nice at first, but put it next to the shimmering ball it becomes insignificant." -- Kevin Madden



The Democratic National Convention: September: 5-8, 2016
Key Speakers:
Monday: President Barack Obama, Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton
Tuesday: Former Pres. Bill Clinton, Keynote: Governor Cory Booker
Wednesday: Elizabeth Warren, Nominating Speech, Martin O'Malley, Vice President Nomination  Acceptance Speech
Thursday: Mario Cuomo, Nominating Speech, Andrew Cuomo, Presidential Nomination  Acceptance Speech

Obama Approval Rating:
Approve: 49%
Disapprove: 40%

Unemployment Rate: August 2016
7.0%

OBAMA PRESS CONFERENCE
()
"Certainly the job's report on Friday is not what everyone wanted to see. I certainly wanted to see something better, but it the current trend of now. America has recovered, we're better off, but like always there is more to be done and it's time for Congress to act and do their job, instead of me telling them to do their job."

"Mr. President, what are you thoughts regarding Senator Ayotte's speech this week? Did you watch it?"

"You know I have a job...it's the one these guys are vying for, so I don't get too many TV breaks, but I did catch two of the speeches this week, by former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and by Senator Ayotte. I congratulate both women, especially Senator Ayotte. It's always great for this country to have an opportunity like this, I know I felt the same vibes eight years ago, so I wish her the best of luck."

"Do you have any comments on what she said?"

"No. I've said all I need to on the conventions and political matters."

"Mr. President, do you believe as some economist have recently stated that America will have to get use to unemployment at these levels; meaning the new normal?"

"Look, what we have for unemployment is not normal by any means, it's still above where it needs to be, but if you look at where we were, the argument can be made that things are better, not worse. Worse would be double digit unemployment. Still we have to deal with the problem that exists and get those numbers to drop even lower."

CNN BREAKING NEWS: TROPICAL STORM IGOR, NOW HURRICANE

IGOR POUNDS FLORIDA; DEMOCRATIC CONVENTION SHAKEUP

()

Pres. Obama to address convention via satellite



Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Warren 4 Secretary of Everything on July 29, 2012, 10:31:55 PM


CNN BREAKING NEWS: TROPICAL STORM IGOR, NOW HURRICANE

IGOR POUNDS FLORIDA; DEMOCRATIC CONVENTION SHAKEUP

()

Pres. Obama to address convention via satellite


I really hope this doesn't turn out to be the Republicans' 2008 and Obama's Katrina.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on July 30, 2012, 07:29:01 AM
Pres. Obama's Statement Following Hurricane Igor
()
"To the people of South Florida we are standing with you and you will not be forgotten. We will rebuild and we will recover..."


Obama Rallies The Troops, Clinton delivers the message
()
"Not while there is still so much to do, America must not yield, America must keep going. Together, stand with Governor Cuomo and Governor O'Malley and continue writing the next pages and chapters in America's history."

()
"Not just because he's from my home state of New York, but because he is the most qualified, the best prepared and is armed with a vision to lead America into her best days!...I think it's wonderful to see two women running for President and Vice President, and some have even evoked my name in drawing comparisons to Senator Ayotte. Sadly, the comparison ends after they say we're both women. The vision laid out by Senator Ayotte backtracks. It sends America back to the policies of allowing big banks to call the shots, the rich to pay little to no taxes and for health care to secondary. Her Vice President is a competent woman, but her foreign policy begs to differ. She's a protege of George Bush, and together they present a clear choice for America to make. For me the answer is simple: No way, no how, No Rice and certainly no Ayotte!"


"Certainly a good start to the conventions for the Democrat's tonight?" -- John King

"Yes. The President showed great leadership by staying with the people in Florida, rather than heading to the convention and then you have Hillary Clinton, a great night for the Democrats." -- Hilary Rosen

"I was really interested at the digs made by Hillary Clinton over George Bush's foreign policy, when she mentioned Rice in her speech. I have to wonder if the old let's pin everything on George Bush will work?" -- Alex Castellanos

"It's a mixed bag for the Democrats to keep tying everything back to George Bush, they have to present a vision for the future." -- John Avalon

"The Democrats are trying and I say trying to make George Bush the 21st century's Herbert Hoover, and it's a risky venture because the electorate is much more different today than it was in the 1930 and 1940s, but it could work. I think surrogates can bring up Bush to a degree, but Cuomo and O'Malley need to stay away from it." -- James Carville


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on August 02, 2012, 10:42:38 AM
HEADLINE: O'MALLEY BLASTS AYOTTE; BUILDS UP CUOMO
"The Tea Party brigade is in full force with Senator Ayotte at the helm. America's history is written by repeating failure, that's insanity. We tried it there way and simply we won't go that way again!"

Cuomo Nominates Cuomo
()
"I am filled with tremendous pride as I stand before you tonight and nominate my son for Democratic nomination. I could not be prouder, and it not just because he is my son. He is the most prepared, the most qualified and most visionary candidate in the race for President and he willl lead America well..."

"America must be a shinning city on a hill"
()
"....As my father eloquently put back in 1984 when he criticized another Republican candidate for President. Senator Ayotte sees a shining city on a hill that different. She sees one that benefits only the few, and forgets the many. A shinning city on a hill that's light will go out because there's no money left to fund it. A government rendered all but defunct, a forgotten middle class and a reduced focus on education. That's not our America. For our America is a shining city on a hill, one where every American is doing well. Where every American prospers, where every America has a shot at the American Dream.

Now my opponent will lambast this speech and call me a socialist and that I evoked class warfare, but they can say all they want, but it doesn't make it so. This is not about punishing those who are successful, this is not about dividing the rich against the poor. This is about fairness, economic fairness for every American, and if they call it class warfare, then so be it!"


"Thoughts on Governor Cuomo's speech tonight?" -- John King

"He did a good job. A speech that reminded me a lot of Bill Clinton, just in the way it flowed and the direction he took. Now Cuomo is not like an Elizabeth Warren or even Barack Obama, he's more moderate when it comes to economics, but you saw at the end of that speech, the talk of fairness, that's a winning argument that he's going to use against Ayotte. He'll simply put it as, she's for an uneven play field, and he for a level one." -- James Carville

"It's going to be a close election, no doubt. I expect Cuomo to get a bump in the polls after this speech, but then I suspect it to go back to what we've seen." -- Alex Castellanos

"The general consensus appears to be Cuomo's VP was upstaged by the pick of Rice. He needs to find a way to regain the momentum and I think the speech is a start, but he'll need to go farther." -- Kevin Madden

"There is speculation that Ayotte and Cuomo may agree to do a debate sponsored by their campaign, along with the three regular presidential debates." -- John King

Post-Convention Poll:
Cuomo/O'Malley: 48%
Ayotte/Rice: 45%


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on August 07, 2012, 05:44:58 AM
The Final Stretch of Campaign 2016 Coming Soon...


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Jerseyrules on August 07, 2012, 02:06:37 PM
The Final Stretch of Campaign 2016 Coming Soon...

Looking forward to it ;)


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on August 10, 2012, 07:58:27 AM
Ayotte Returns to NH, Blasts Cuomo
()

"I look forward to debating Governor Cuomo in the first presidential debate this cycle. It is there that I hope the negative attacks can be put aside and we both can give the American people a campaign they deserve."

"Senator Ayotte and Governor Cuomo will meet tonight in Tampa, Florida for the first Presidential Debate. This one is being sponsored by the Committee for Presidential Debate, but we can now confirm that Governor Cuomo and Senator Ayotte will be meeting for a town hall style debate, put on by their campaigns, taking place in Richmond Virginia." -- John King.

"I think that's a great start, especially because the three regular debates typically are not game changers. The one that they're putting on together should be more interesting and enlightening. They're working with social media groups like Facebook and Twitter to better coordinate it and bring everyone into the fold." -- James Carville

Daily Tracking Poll:
Ayotte/Rice: 47%
Cuomo/O'Malley: 45%

Excerpt from Five Battleground States:

Ohio: Tossup
Cuomo/O'Malley: 46%
Ayotte/Rice: 46%

Florida: Lean Ayotte
Ayotte/Rice: 50%
Cuomo/O'Malley: 45%

Wisconsin: Tossup
Cuomo/O'Malley: 48%
Ayotte/Rice: 47%

Nevada: Tossup
Cuomo/O'Malley: 47%
Ayotte/Rice: 47%

Virginia: Tossup
Ayotte/Rice: 47%
Cuomo/O'Malley: 46%

Homestate Polling:

New Hampshire:
Ayotte/Rice: 53%
Cuomo/O'Malley: 44%

New York:
Cuomo/O'Malley: 60%
Ayotte/Rice: 37%

Obama Approval Rating: Post Hurricane Igor
Approval: 50%
Disapprove: 39%


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on August 11, 2012, 09:59:36 PM
DEBATE NIGHT: TAMPA, FLORIDA
"How do you feel going into tonight with Governor Cuomo?" -- Joe Scarborough

()
"I'm ready. Both Governor Cuomo and I have two very distinct and clear visions for America's future and I look forward to have a meeting of the minds tonight. It should be fun and hopefully revealing."

"Revealing?" -- Mika Brzezinski

"Governor Cuomo has largely played hide and seek with his plan, merely sugar coating and using platitudes. I hope tonight the American people are able to see clearly what his plan for America is. More taxes, more government, more spending. Essentially Barack Obama all over again."


"...And welcome to the first of three Presidential Debates, tonight featuring the two major candidates. On the Democratic Side, Governor Andrew Cuomo of New York and Senator Kelly Ayotte of New Hampshire..."

"...The American people are ready for the tough medicine. For eight years we've had no leadership when it comes to entitlement reform. We've had no leadership when it comes to reigning in the national debt. Government has gotten bigger not smaller, encroaching on our freedoms, liberties and lives, and under my opponent's plan he wants to continue this. I am suggesting an alternative. I am proposing a vision for America that is a return to fiscal responsibility, shrinking government, and tackling the so called third rail of American politics: Entitlements. Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. We need to address these programs if we want to save them for future generations. Reform is needed, otherwise we will hand to the next generations more debt, deficits and stack of bills. That's not the future they deserve." -- Kelly Ayotte

"Despite Senator Ayotte's best efforts I am not a tax and spend Democrat. I have applaud President Obama for all his work, but I am not President Obama. I am Andrew Cuomo, Governor of New York and my plan is one of economic fairness. While you want the very rich to pay no taxes, I am calling on the rich to pay their fair share, so that the middle class can grow." -- Andrew Cuomo

"Governor, that's not my plan. I want every American to pay the same amount in taxes. That's fair, not having some pay more and others pay less. I am talking about dramatically reforming the existing tax code. It's broken. A fair tax or a flat tax is the solution. A single rate that every American pays. You want economic fairness there you have it." -- Kelly Ayotte

Cumulative Polling Average:
Ayotte/Rice: 47.7%
Cuomo/O'Malley: 45.4%

Lincoln Douglas-Style Town Hall Debate: Richmond, Virginia

Reviews from Debate:
"A more off the cuff debate then the first. Certainly a great way to incorporate social media into it."
"Ayotte hits a homerun. Comes off a strong and had a great command of the issues."
"Cuomo stole the show, a better performance from his first debate."

Vice Presidential Debate:
()

()

Excerpts:

"Ms. Rice is Bush rerun. She stands championing the same foreign policy that created a second Vietnam-like war for the United States." -- Martin O'Malley

"Governor, I appreciate the attempt to try and link Senator Ayotte and this ticket as nothing but another run from George Bush, but let's not repeat the past. What's done is done. This is 2016, not 2008." -- Condoleezza Rice.

"But that's just it. Those who refuse to look at history will be doomed to repeat, and not to harp on the point but you are connected to the Bush Administration, like it or not." -- Martin O'Malley

"Yes. I served in the Bush Administration, and did we make mistakes? Sure, and like you say the goal is not to make those mistakes again. You have the beauty of hindsight, but you're sitting here today and you say that. Try working in the White House, when decisions need to be made left in right. It's a whole other ballgame, now to reiterate, yes I served in the Bush Administration, yes we made mistakes, but everyday I can tell you President Bush made the decisions he thought were in the best interest not for himself politically, but for the American people. I was inspired working in that White House, it's why I do what I do. It's why I'm here tonight, running for Vice President. It's about serving my country, not reaching out for political ambitions, something you seem to be very good at." -- Condoleezza Rice

"Here stands the electoral map at this point in the campaign. Including all the leans and likely states Governor Cuomo has 226 electoral votes, and Senator Ayotte has 239 votes. This is a razor thin election. There are 73 electoral votes up for grabs." -- John King

"The map is friendly to Ayotte, but not by much. She still needs Virginia, Ohio and maybe a pickup in Iowa or Nevada or even Colorado." -- James Carville
"Here are the results from four years ago. President Obama narrowly defeated Mitt Romney. He won the electoral vote, but lost the popular vote in a close contest." -- John King

"John King needs to hold onto Nevada, New Mexico, Colorado and take Iowa too. Now if he gets those three he only has 268, because New Hampshire is all but certain to go for Ayotte. That means he'll need to carry a state like Virginia, Ohio or Florida." -- Kevin Madden

"Looking at the numbers in Ohio, here is what happened with Governor Romney's win there four years." -- John King.

Ohio: 2012
Romney: 49.88%
Obama: 49.59%

"Now with the race between Ayotte and Cuomo." -- John King

Ohio: 2016
Ayotte: 47%
Cuomo: 46%

Virginia: 2012
Romney: 49.47%
Obama: 49.04%

Virginia: 2016
Ayotte: 46%
Cuomo: 45%

"It's Virginia and Ohio that Cuomo needs to focus on if he intends to win the election." -- Donna Brazile.

"Though I think he can do without those two states. If he can take Arizona away from Ayotte he's golden with 279 electoral votes." -- James Carville.

Arizona: 2016
Ayotte: 50%
Cuomo: 45%


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on August 14, 2012, 09:21:50 PM
*Author's Note: Skipping ahead to Election Day. The polls are tied between Ayotte and Cuomo.
Ayotte: 48%
Cuomo: 48%

Election Day:

"Turnout is unusually high today, at levels not seen since 2008. Both sides are energized, and with the way the polls look this election could go either way. Senator Ayotte says the momentum is with her, but Governor Cuomo is predicting a comeback, despite having a mediocre debate performance on the final debate." -- John King.

()

"Large turnout in the swing states could mean anything. An Ayotte victory, or a Cuomo victory. Too close and too early to tell." -- Gloria Borger

Ayotte/Rice v. Cuomo/O'Malley
(
)

()
"Senator Ayotte is the projected winner in the state of South Carolina." -- John King
SC:
Ayotte: 59.8%
Cuomo: 39.1%

()
"Governor Cuomo is the projected winner in Vermont." -- Anderson Cooper
VT:
Cuomo: 59.0%
Ayotte: 39.6%

()
"Senator Ayotte is the winner in the state of West Virginia and Kentucky, two Republican strongholds." -- John King

"And it appears we can make a major projection in the state of Indiana. It was not a strongly contested state, but certainly is one the first major states to fall tonight." -- Anderson Cooper.

"The focus tonight is on Ohio, Virginia, and North Carolina. President Obama won Virginia last time and like 2012 Virginia is contested but at the moment Ayotte holds a lead over Cuomo." -- John King

"If we do end up losing this election I suspect it will be close. Cuomo is a fighter and I suspect that to be up until the last vote is counted." -- James Carville

8:47

(
)
Ayotte/Rice: 92
Cuomo/O'Malley: 74

()
IL:
Cuomo: 50.8%
Ayotte: 47.5%

Virginia:
Ayotte: 51.1%
Cuomo: 46.4%

Ohio:
Ayotte: 50.0%
Cuomo: 49.2%

North Carolina:
Ayotte: 53.7%
Cuomo: 44.9%

Florida:
Ayotte: 50.5%
Cuomo: 48.6%

Michigan:
Cuomo: 49.7%
Ayotte: 49.0%

Pennsylvania:
Cuomo: 49.5%
Ayotte: 48.9%

Missouri:
Ayotte: 51.9%
Cuomo: 47.0%

Maine CD 2:
Ayotte: 49.4%
Cuomo: 49.3%

9:15

(
)
Ayotte/Rice: 180
Cuomo/O'Malley: 117

"And we project now that Senator Ayotte is the winner in the state of Virginia. Senator Ayotte is the winner in the battleground state of Virginia" -- John King

Virginia:
Ayotte: 51.8%
Cuomo: 47.3%

(
)
Ayotte/Rice: 193
Cuomo/O'Malley: 117

"Cuomo is running out of options to turn this thing around. I won't say it's over, but he needs to start racking up the states quickly." -- James Carville.

"And CNN is now projecting the state of Michigan for Governor Cuomo." -- John King

Michigan:
Cuomo: 49.7%
Ayotte: 49.1%

(
)
Ayotte/Rice: 193
Cuomo/O'Malley: 133


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Jerseyrules on August 14, 2012, 09:30:04 PM
Cool.  Interesting how Obama not leading the ticket shows IL being much closer


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on August 15, 2012, 09:19:16 PM
"...and Senator Ayotte is the winner in the state of Florida."

(
)
Ayotte/Rice:225
Cuomo/O'Malley: 134

"Cuomo needs to pull some states in line and fast, or this will be decided by eleven o'clock." -- James Carville.

Ohio:
Ayotte: 49.9%
Cuomo: 48.5%

Pennsylvania:
Ayotte: 49.5%
Cuomo: 49.2%

Wisconsin:
Cuomo: 49.7%
49.4%

"And CNN is now able to make a projection in the state of Ohio. Senator Ayotte has won the state of Colorado. Colorado is going back into the Republican column." -- John King

Colorado:
Ayotte: 51.0%
Cuomo: 47.5%

(
)
Ayotte/Rice: 234
Cuomo/O'Malley: 134

"The two candidates are separated by one hundred delegates." -- John King

Popular Vote:
Ayotte/Rice: 50.0%
Cuomo/O'Malley: 48.4%

10:02:
(Image Link)[/img]
Ayotte/Rice: 243
Cuomo/O'Malley: 134

"And CNN is now ready to make a major projection in the state Ohio. Senator has won the state of Ohio." -- John King.

"It's over." -- James Carville.

"We're on the verge of history." -- Alex Castellanos

(
)
Ayotte/Rice: 261
Cuomo/O'Malley: 134

10:37

Kellly Ayotte Elected President, Arizona Puts Senator over the Top
()
AYOTTE MAKES HISTORY

(
)
Ayotte/Rice: 272
Cuomo/O'Malley: 134

Epilogue:

POLITICO: HISTORIC SWEEP

NYT: "WE MADE HISTORY"

BOSTON HERALD: IT'S AYOTTE!

(
)
Ayotte/Rice: 321 (50.6%)
Cuomo/O'Malley: 217 (47.9%)

Closest States:
Michigan:
Cuomo: 49.66%
Ayotte: 49.15%

New Mexico:
Cuomo: 49.50%
Ayotte: 49.38%

Pennsylvania:
Ayotte: 49.89%
Cuomo: 49.37%


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: mondale84 on August 15, 2012, 10:34:13 PM
How is New Mexico close?


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: tmthforu94 on August 16, 2012, 12:58:23 AM
Very good! I've always said that Illinois is a state that will trend Republican - that's just been delayed by Obama being on the ticket for two elections. I bet sometime in the 2020's, it votes Republican, even without a GOP landslide.


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: mondale84 on August 16, 2012, 02:08:03 PM
Very good! I've always said that Illinois is a state that will trend Republican - that's just been delayed by Obama being on the ticket for two elections. I bet sometime in the 2020's, it votes Republican, even without a GOP landslide.

Except there's this thing called Cook county...


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Jerseyrules on August 16, 2012, 09:12:09 PM
Very good! I've always said that Illinois is a state that will trend Republican - that's just been delayed by Obama being on the ticket for two elections. I bet sometime in the 2020's, it votes Republican, even without a GOP landslide.

Except there's this thing called Cook county...

There's also this thing called LA and San Francisco, both of which Nixon won in 72.  Just saying....

I realize a GOP presidential nominee winning Chicago is unlikely, but they almost won the governorship and did win Obama's old senate seat in 2010


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Svensson on August 17, 2012, 01:37:26 AM
Awesome. Likelihood of an Ayotte cabinet rundown before this closes out? :D


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: NHI on August 17, 2012, 05:47:46 AM
Ayotte Cabinet:
Pres. Ayotte
Vice Pres. Rice
Chief of Staff: Rob Portman

Sec. of State: Jon Huntsman
Sec. of Treasury: Rand Paul
Sec. of Defense: Jim Talent
Attorney General: Chris Christie
Sec. of Interior: Ovide LaMontagne
Sec. of Agriculture: Tim Pawlenty
Sec. of of Commerce: Bob McDonnell
Sec. of Labor: Nikki Haley
Sec. of Health and Human Services
Sec. of Housing and Urban Development:
Sec. of Transportation: Ray LaHood
Sec. of Energy: John Thune
Sec. of Education: Susanna Martinez
Sec. of Veteran's Affairs: Daniel Akaka
Sec. of Homeland Security: Norm Coleman


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: H.E. VOLODYMYR ZELENKSYY on August 17, 2012, 11:31:12 AM
Really? A 300-vote landslide against a popular centrist Democrat? I get that Rice is popular, but that much?


Title: Re: The Next Four Years
Post by: Jerseyrules on August 22, 2012, 10:37:22 PM
Really? A 300-vote landslide against a popular centrist Democrat? I get that Rice is popular, but that much?

Remember its not that big of a landslide; Ayotte is also a centrist, and on top of that this is with an eight-year Democratic incumbent.  The most recent example would be 2000, and even Slick Willy's 60+% approval ratings couldn't save Gore, and Dubya came very close to carrying PA, OR, WI, MN, and MI that year, way more than 300 EV.