Westman Timeline Pt. I

[Mechaman]

While on the subject of Americana, I have two questions that I meant to ask earlier today:

What did Winfield specifically do? I know Benson Rockefeller is his god (notice the lower case "g"), but how did that play out in Americana>

and 2: How come all the Libertarians were atheist? I find it pretty hilarious how (paraphrasing) "The Libertarians were so impressed at their own success that a number of them began to come out as atheist and that resulted in 1986 Congressional losses". I just imagine a hundred people standing up on the House floor declaring their atheism. It's pretty funny. The only exception is of course Beauregard D'Israeli.

While the rest of us were striving to create a collaborative project he all out waged war on the rest of us by making entries for other characters controlled by other people and deciding the actions of entire parties (see Mercanti).  That was just a big no no.
If I continue talking about Winfield's actions in the game I'm afraid I'll probably be infracted for saying something offensive.  I'll leave Kal to give further details about him.

Not every Libertarian was an atheist.  D'Israeli was an avowed Satanist, which in my opinion would be worse to Evangelicals than an atheist.  Ron Paul, in Atlasia a Libertarian, definitely isn't an atheist.  I think the same could be said about a bunch of other Libertarians too.  It's just that due to the radical nature of the Libertarian Party (which was somehow super successful) those who were atheists felt more invincible and willing to declare their atheism.

[Mechaman]

August 20th, 1959
Wilson Resort
Virginia Beach, Virginia:

It is 8:05 AM and Tobin MacMahon has just begun his work shift at the Wilson Resort front desk.  He looks up and notices a tall man with salt and pepper hair approaching the front desk with a middle aged woman with vibrant brunette hair and with a gorgeous young woman who he guessed to be about 16.  He smiles before speaking.
MacMahon: (Irish Accent) Sir, may I help you?
It was then that MacMahon found the man before him familiar, like he had seen him somewhere before.  Newspaper?  Magazine?  When he spoke up in that unmistakable New York accent he remembered.
Westman: That'd be good young laddie.  We are here for a reservation under the name of Willie Westman.  Suite 1288D.  Hey do I know you from somewhere?
MacMahon looks up.
MacMahon: I believe you do sir.  Before I came to the states I worked as part of the Kildare Theatre Company as a young man.  You came to visit while on vacation to see our performance.  Needless to say we were very surprised to see you, American ambassador to Great Britain, in a theatre in Kildare.
Westman: Oh right and you played in the Edgar Allen Poe showcase.  Your performance as the narrator in the "Tell-Tale Heart" adaptation was amazing.  What are you doing working in a resort and not Hollywood?
MacMahon: I like the change of environment.  I hope to own a resort of me own someday good sir.  That is why I moved here almost three years ago.
Westman: You have ambition, I like that.  I'm sorry I don't recall your name?
MacMahon: Tobin MacMahon sir.
Westman: Oh right Toby.  Pardon me for neglecting to introduce my wife Anne.....
Anne steps forward and shakes MacMahon's hand.
Anne: Pleased to meet you Tobin.
MacMahon: Thank you Anne.
Westman:......and my daughter Rebecca.
Rebecca steps forward in front of the front desk.  For a few seconds the two share an awkward moment before Rebecca extends her hand.
Rebecca: Nice to meet you Tobin.  I hope we run into each other more often.
MacMahon: I hope so too dear.
MacMahon hands Westman the key to the suite.
MacMahon:  Here you go sir.  Enjoy your stay.
And that was the second time that MacMahon would meet William Westman, his future political idol.  At the time though he had no idea of just how close he would get to the family.......

Later on MacMahon would take the young Rebecca Westman on a number of dates.  Nothing serious ever came out of those dates, at most the two shared a ten second kiss after seeing a movie at the local theater.  However, after a week long courtship the two broke it off when it became apparent that their relationship would never be serious enough to warrant a long distance relationship.  In August 1962 Rebecca would move to Virginia Beach to attend Old Dominion University in nearby Norfolk.  While there she and MacMahon would resume their relationship for the next three years.  This time it would become more serious, with Rebecca moving into Tobin's penthouse on top of the hotel.  To this day both MacMahon and Rebecca Westman insist that the two never had any sexual relations and that Rebecca moved into MacMahon's penthouse mostly to save on student dormitory costs in college.  The relationship would end when MacMahon broke it off after admitting to "lacking feelings of genuine love" for Rebecca Westman.  A month after his break up with Rebecca Westman Tobin would meet his wife, Diane Banks, an African American college student from Baltimore, during Spring Break 1966.

[Mechaman]

September 28th, 1982
Montana US Senate Debate
Excerpts:

Incumbent US Senator Scott Westman of Missoula, Montana; Democratic Party
Billings based psychiatrist Mendelik D'Israeli, Republican Party
Moral activist Susie K. Helmuth of Hysham, Montana; Constitution Party
Butte, Montana based progressive labor activist Brian Lovato, Independent
Missoula based pro-life activist David P. Walters, Conservative Party
Anaconda based socialist author Fidel Giuseppe, Peace and Solidarity Party
Great Falls based historian Andrew T. Jefferson, Modern Democratic-Republican Party
Bozeman based environmentalist Jacob R. Greeley, Green Party
Circle based preacher Benjamin L. Barnes, Prohibition Party
Missoula based plant grower Michael J. Stots, Marijuana Party
Helena based strip club owner John Shun, Anti-Moralfag Party
Ronald D. Murphy of Kalispell, Billion Dollar Baby Party

Murphy: My name is Ronald Murphy and I am a member of the Billion Dollar Baby Party.  If elected as your US Senator I would introduce a bill that gets rid of all government censorship of musician's work.

Shun: I'm John Shun and I am running on the Anti-Moralfag Party.  Lately there has been a lot of proposals from Constitution Party moralf****ts to place restrictions and taxes on strip clubs and other "disagreeable" places of interest.  I say go f*** yourselves. (extends middle finger towards Helmuth)
Moderator: Let me remind the candidates to keep the appearance of a modicum of decency towards those you disagree with?
Shun: Eat sh*t asshole!
Westman and a number of audience members start applauding.
Moderator: Senator......may I ask that you and the audience please don't encourage Mr. Shun?

Stots: I am Michael J. Stots and I am for Marijuana legalization.
Westman: So am I.
Stots: It's not enough man.  I just want weed......weeed.......WEEEDDDDDD!!!

Barnes: Hello I am Benjamin L. Barnes and I am a preacher from Circle, Montana.  I believe that the government should do a better job of keeping society safe and healthy.  It is now legal, in the state of Montana, to have an open container of alcohol while on the sidewalk.  This is an outrage and should not happen.  If elected I promise to make the banning of these evil liquids my top priority.
Westman: 1920 just called they want their extreme fail of an idea back.

Greeley: As the candidate for the Green Party I want to promote an agenda of non-interventionism, voluntarism, and sustainable green economics.  I also want to provide a true left alternative to our incumbent senator and the so-called "progressive" Independent.

Jackson: I am Andrew T. Jackson, member of the Modern Democratic Republican Party.  My goal as your US Senator will be to destabilize the overgrown authority of this federal government and return all powers to the states as invested in our US Constitution.

Giuseppe: As the sole socialist running I hope to be the bulwark against the greed and corruption of our corporately owned US Senate!

Walters: My name is David P. Walters and I want to be your US Senator.  Over the past few years the values of this state have been ignored by Scott Westman who we elected to carry the people of Montana's mandate.  For far too long the voices of conservative Montana have been ignored for our Democratic representatives in Congress to help promote a radical agenda that is a threat to the stability and moral order of this nation and leaves us too weak to defend against our neighbors.  If you believe in the traditional bounds of our government as outlined in the US Constitution that a non invasive federal government is best then vote for me, vote for David Walters.

Lovato: For the past five years Scott Westman has done more damage to the cause of progressivism than any conservative or right wing kook ever could.  If you want a progressive alternative to the corporate sellout Westman then vote for me.

Helmuth: I have had it with these mealy mouth fags like Westman who only use their office as a way to further their hedonistic and sinful ways!  I refuse to be quiet I REFUSE!!!  GOD HATES FAGS! GOD HATES FAGS! GOD HATES FAGS! GOD HATES-(mic is shut off).
Moderator: Security, escort this woman out of the building and give her a horse tranquilizer before she eats anymore of our children.
Helmuth: (yelling) SOMEBODY REALLY OUGHT TO HURT YOU!  YOU ARE UNFIT FOR MODERATING THE HIGH SCHOOL DRAMA CLUB MUCH LESS A SENATORIAL DEBAT-(falls assleep after getting horse tranquilizer).

D'Israeli: Scott Westman has done an okay job, but I can do it better.
Westman: Why am I not surprised to hear the atypical "we can do it better" message typical of a Republican?
D'Israeli: Senator, I went into this debate thinking you were going to be a bit civil but so far I have seen nothing but sophomoric responses to other candidates.
Westman sticks out his tongue at D'Israeli and blows raspberries.
Westman: But what's even the point of running against me D'Israeli?  You practically agree with me on almost everything......why bother?
D'Israeli: Because the things we do disagree on are too damn important for me to stay at home on election night and watch you win another term in office.  That's why.

Walters: There is no denying that Westman has been a great Senator on issues like trade and the economy, but his support of such a costly program as our public health care system and opposition to military funding will cost us dearly in the next few years.  Also, I am the only candidate here today who would as a US Senator propose a national "Defend Life" Bill that would prevent the Supreme Court from abusing it's authority in regards to the issue of abortion in the states.  Right now in our courts judges are talking about forcing down a radical agenda of what constitutes human life down our throats.  If you want a principles man who is willing to take great risk to protect the life of the unborn, there is no other choice but the Conservative Party of Montana.

Westman: Look, I wasn't elected to represent libertarian values, or progressive values, or conservative values, or green values, or socialist values, or even marijuana values, I was elected to represent Montana values.  Love it or leave it that is your decision, but I truly believe that the positions I have taken are in the best interests of the people of this great state.  I will continue doing so until the day that I retire or.....god forbid...I am voted out of office on referendum from the people.  I do hope that the people watching this debate will keep in mind the kinds of choices that I have made, choices that none of the other people on this stage have had yet to make.  Let me ask you a question: Are you better off now than you were six years ago?  If no then by all means give me the early retirement.  If yes then I will be glad to serve you six more years.

After the debate Westman would have a rare 3 point lead over his opponents.  However the performance of the night was widely given to David Walters, the Conservative candidate, who had replaced Susie Helmuth as the main choice of right wing Montanans.  Over the past four years the pro-life movement in Montana had exploded and Walters emphasis on his pro-life position throughout the debate would help him win some cross over support from pro-lifer from across the political spectrum to go from polling a distant third place to being half a point behind D'Israeli.

Despite his comfortable (considering the situation) lead Westman began to sweat when he saw Walters increase in the approval polls.

[Mechaman]

October 1st, 1982
Oval Office:

Helms: I hev hed inuff uv u Crayin.  U r a desgease tu ore purty.
Crane scoots back from his desk before looking up at his VP.
Crane: Continue laying in the cheap insults Jesse, it won't endear me anymore to you or your ilk.
Helms: Yi Ull ded use john da c**ntshitotiton purty nywee?
Crane: Because I couldn't let that crazy bastard Beauregard D'Israeli become president and if it meant that I joined a party of dumbass protectionist racist bigots so be it.  I tell you one thing though, despite being with you raging bigots I somehow managed to win over 40% of the Irish Catholic vote.  Yeah, I'm glad that you find me a disgrace to your party.
Helms: Eye ud rthr b lemeted to Dip Suth din sale dis purty tu da meek papses.
Crane: Ever heard of a damn dictionary Jesse?  Really?  "meek pases"?  God you're pathetic.  I've had it, I'm quitting this retarded party and I'm going to announce it tonight.

Later that night:
Crane: After trying to work with the Constitution Party for the past two years I have found that the differences between us is just too great.  That is why tonight, in order to best serve the people of the United States as an unbiased executive, I declare myself independent of party affiliation.  Thank you.
As Crane is leaving the podium Helms walks up and slams down some papers.
Helms: Mastur Prisdunt......I QUIT!!!!!
Giovanni Russo, who observed the event from the sideline, would comment to the press:
Russo: That's the most damned literate thing I ever heard Jesse Helms say.  Good riddance to bad rubbish I say.

October 7th, 1982
President Crane appears before Congress:

Good evening fellow politicians.  Today I have a most difficult task: the selection of a Vice President.  After many days of reflection I have decided to nominate a man I long considered a friend of reliable character and goodwill to this position.  Without much further ado, ladies and gentlemen, my choice for Vice President......former Texas Governor Ray Hutchison!

Hutchison takes the stage to thunderous applause from Republicans, MRC, and Democratic members but a chorus of boos from the Constitution Party members.  Ray Hutchison is known as his stint as the first Republican Governor of Texas since Reconstruction when he came into office in 1967 at the age of 34 to a state with a struggling economy, a budget deficit, high taxes, and still struggling in some areas with Civil Rights.  As Governor from 1967-1975 he would take a struggling economy and make it the most competitive in the nation, leave office with a $150 million surplus, widespread reduction in taxes, and pass some of the most progressive Civil Rights legislation paving the way to college for many disadvantaged minorities throughout Texas.  Due to his young age when taking office he was known as "the boy governor".
And now he was Crane's pick for Vice President.

[Mechaman]

I had some trouble understanding the Conservative's position on abortion. To me it sounded like "The Supreme Court is trying to define life at conception and I'm against that". However, apparently he's pro-life and calls for a Right to Life amendment. It's probably just bad wording but it was confusing.

Yeah definitely bad wording.
What I meant was that they were trying to pass abortion on demand.

As you could probably tell by now despite the nation already having public healthcare (or "public hellcare" as it's called by conservatives) and abolish the death penalty the abortion debate is still ongoing.  At the moment most of the nation is against a national law legalizing abortion on demand (68% against, 8% undecided, 24% for) while 1/3rd of all Americans would support a law that would make abortion illegal nationwide (34% for, 11% undecided, 55% against).
So yeah, I took a lot of liberties with changing public perception of certain issues but I thought it would make it interesting.
On top of his sexual trysts, alienating progressives, etc., the abortion debate is one hell of a burden for Scott Westman in 1982.

[Mechaman]

Before I forget:

December 8th, 1981
Austin, Texas:

Lloyd Bentsen is in front of a crowd of 2,500 people when he makes his address:

Ladies and gentlemen, after recent troubles with my family I have decided that it is best that I announce my retirement.  It has been a great time, representing the state of Texas in the United States Senate and as the Senate Leader of the Democratic Party but it has become apparent in the past few months that in my time serving you I have forgotten my duty first and foremost as a husband and a father.  I wish to pass on my blessing to whoever will become the Democratic nominee in next November's race.

Thank you and God Bless

[Mechaman]

Who are the people running for Bentsen's seat?

Charles W. Stenholm (Democratic)
Ronald E. Paul (Republican)
Robert K. Douglas (Constitution)

Yeah the politics of Texas are a bit more lax than Montana.  The Constitution Party is actually very weak due to the strength of the Democratic machines located throughout the state that takes quite a bit of the conservative/populist vote.  The Republican Party of Texas is generally libertarian, though some members (like John Tower) have been known to be a bit hawkish.  The Republican Party of Texas is considered to be the most libertarian major state party east of the Rockies and has been almost non-existent in Texas politics until the mid 1960's with the rise in popularity of Civil Rights amongst the Mexican and African American populations that the Republican Party (at least in Texas) were popular with.  However, Democrats still hold massive majorities in the state house and senate as well as in the US House of Representatives and the US Senate.  It is mostly due to the loyalty that conservative Texas Democrats felt to the national party why Texas has remained a red state for as long as it has.

[Mechaman]

Just to let you know, I'm still reading, Mech. Great stuff.

Oh boy I got a pretty epic update planned for tomorrow.

I'll give you a hint: if you thought America was really more progressive in regards to racial and religious relations just wait........

[Mechaman]

October 2nd, 1982
Helmuth Campaign stop in Bozeman, Montana:

Susie K. Helmuth is on the stage when she addresses the crowd:

You know lately the press and the media have been going out of their way, out of their way to deny me my chance at expressing the interests of this great party.  A party built on true traditional American values in direct opposition to the immoral power hungry agenda of the Radical Republican Party and the Papist Democratic Party.  I want to run as the Senator of real Montana, not this $5 fake smile version proposed by Scott Westman and others of his ilk!  Or the one of fake conservatives like David P. Walters!  Or the one of libertine radicals and satanists like D'Israeli.  For far too long they have tried to keep us, the no longer Silent Majority of Americans quiet.  But no longer, no longer now.  Mister President!  We will take no more of you selling out to the Great Hiberno Socialist Conspiracy!

Ms. Helmuth's speech, mostly due to her claim of a "Great Hiberno Socialist Conspiracy" would make the the 6'O clock news in every major American city.  The effects of her speech would be felt throughout the nation...................

[Mechaman]

October 3rd, 1982
King's Corner Interview Segment, CNN
Guest: Scott Westman

King: Senator welcome to the show.
Westman: How you do king?
King: Well obviously you have a lot on your mind so I'll just skip to the question of the day: what do you think of Susie Helmuth's speech yesterday about the "Great Hiberno Socialist Conspiracy"?
Westman looks at the camera and then bursts out laughing.
King: Huh......I should've figured.
Westman: Well we've been found out King.  There really is a widespread conspiracy of Irish Socialists plotting to enforce world government on the United States of America.  Dos Vedanya laddie!
Westman stands up and gives a "Sieg Heil!" salute.
King: So are you going to take this seriously at all?
Westman scoffs.
Westman: I'm shocked this moonbat lady is still in the race.  I mean if she didn't want anybody to think she is a fraud joke candidate she should've stuck with a more controversial minority group.....like Jews.
King chuckles.
Westman: Yeah how much are they paying you to promote the evil communist agenda against the goyim Larry?  Is it at least more than a bottle of Jim Beans and a bag of sweet potatoes?
King laughs.
Westman: Anyway, I strongly suspect this woman is a joke candidate who is running just for attention.  It would be in everybody's best interest to just disregard her as the total fruitcake that she really is and not take any of this Great Hiberno Socialist Conspiracy stuff seriously.  I mean I've been going to Old Man Mike's pub on 11th street for years and he still refuses to let me have a free drink.  Yeah, our socialist conspiracy is working out so great.  I want to talk with real candidates about real issues, not moonbat conspiracy theories revolving around extremely outdated Know Nothing paranoia.  You see what I propose to the people of Montana is something much much more than joke racism from joke super reactionary candidates, what I propose is simple.  It's called the Scott Westman Doctrine.  Why the Scott Westman Doctrine?  Well because it just doesn't sound as sexy without my first name in there that's why.  Anyway here is what the Scott Westman Doctrine is: A nation isn't truly free unless it has given unto it's populace the greatest extent of freedom and health.  That is and always will be the best of a free loving society and people.
King: So right now in the polls you seem to be holding a 3 point lead, after yesterday's story.  Do you feel confident that you will be able to raise that margin given that this is a multi-candidate race?
Westman: Well King it's bound to be a close and tough race.  Due to the current political environment though it seems likely that the midterm advantage will benefit me and other Democrats who have been in the opposition coalition.  Since Congress got sworn in the majority of legislation has been passed by myself and other Democratic Senators despite having barely above a 30 seat minority and facing a lot heavier Republican and Constitution Party majorities.  This is because the Democratic Party has learned to adapt to the situation, to pass very pragmatic and common sense legislation that a majority of office holders in this nation could agree to.  What we have seen over the past two years is an ineffectual Constitution Party that has done very little except throw protectionist and reactionary rhetoric at every bill proposed by a Republican or Democrat.  We have even seen the president resign from the Constitution Party in protest of their divisive rhetoric and approach to government.  We have seen Republicans split over important issues like union rights, abortion, gay rights, gun rights, taxes, and tariffs....a divide that is less prominent and less threatening to Democrats as we go into the midterm elections.  I myself have an accomplished legislative agenda, I do not doubt my chances at being re-elected.
King: Thank you for your time Senator.  When we come back we will have a special look into bass guitar virtuoso Jerry Brown's newest project entitled "The Brown Wave".  Please stick with us.

[Mechaman]

October 6th, 1982
CNN News

We have breaking news.  In a joint rally today Constitution Party supporters Christian Mattingly and William Buckley have announced that they will withdraw support for Susie K. Helmuth, the candidate for US Senate in Montana, and instead endorse the Conservative candidate David Walters.  Party insiders say that Mattingly and Buckley, members of the northern faction, looked down upon Helmuth's latest statements and behavior as "unbecoming of a candidate of the right" and applauded Walters campaign as "just what the modern conservative movement needs right now."  Insiders at the Helmuth campaign, noting her 1.03% rating, suggest that Helmuth is on the verge of pulling out of the race.

[Mechaman]

October 7th, 1982
D'Israeli Rally
Great Falls, MT:

What is most important for the people of this state is to elect one who best represents the libertarian values of this great state.  A US Senator who will defend the civil liberties, allow the states the right to self regulate business and morality, and a US Senator who will stand up to the waste and fraud ridden Public Healthcare System.  Scott Westman is great on when it comes to the first, but not the latter two.  Repeatedly Scott Westman has pushed forward nationalizing the abortion issue, of advocating nation wide legalization.  I am personally pro life, however I think it's unconstitutional of me as a federalist libertarian, to enforce a nation wide abortion ban on the nation.  Rather, this should be left up to each individual state, something my other opponent Roger Walters doesn't understand.  A nationwide abortion ban, as the one implied by the Right to Life Amendment that Mister Walters says he would propose once in office, would cause more harm than good.  Other issues, such as marriage, shouldn't be intruded upon by government.  That is why the founders of this nation put federalist language in our Constitution: because no two states are alike when it comes to the way they govern.
And lastly, the Public Healthcare System that has been endorsed by Westman.  A system that has been proven to be fraud ridden and has lead to increased costs for private health lenders instead of reduced prices and increased competition in the free market.  This is unacceptable.  The next step from a weakened private health market would be a takeover by the federal government, something that Scott Westman spoke favorably of.  This is unacceptable.  We barely can trust the government with the post office and people like Westman think they should have full control over healthcare?  If like me you find this train of thought ridiculous then on election day you vote Republican for me, Mendelik D'Israeli.

[Mechaman]

October 8th, 1982
Lovato Rally
Anaconda, Montana:

How long?  How much longer?  How much longer shall the message of progressivism be ignored in the Congress?  As we speak there is a new majority in Congress, but it isn't Republican and Constitution controlled and it sure as hell isn't 62% control.  It is the Hypracorporate agenda and it controls a supermajority!  It controls 90% of the US Congress, IF NOT MORE!  We have seen the damage it has already done in the hands of Democrats like Scott Westman, we can not trust it in the hands of David Walters or Mendelik D'Israeli!  That is why I have taken it upon myself to run!  There is no viable progressive alternative besides me!  Scott Westman has sold out the voice of Progressive Montana for the last time!  This November let us pull of the ultimate upset and take back the People's Seat!

[Mechaman]

October 10th, 1982
Westman Rally
Kalispell, Montana:

Kalispell!  We have known each other a very long time yes?  You know me!  You know my record!  You know that I represent the best values of this wonderful state!  Where would we be today if it weren't for a dedicated servant like myself sticking his ear into your concerns and parlaying it onto the rest of the US Congress for the advancement of honest Montana values!  Like how about the right to smoke dope without being thrown into jail for 20 years?  Or how about the right of gay and lesbian individuals to live together in harmony like straights without fear of repression?  Or how YOUR sacred second amendment rights that I have fought for against Republican, Moderate Reform, and other Democratic opposition?  Let me tell you all something, despite his rhetoric Brian Lovato wouldn'tve supported any of those three.  He is not the true progressive choice he wants you to believe, he's only "progressive" in that he imagines a society of government ruling the people, a society of masters and SERVANTS!  Don't buy his bullsh*t!  Don't buy it at all!
And don't fall for D'Israeli's phony rhetoric, there is very little difference between me and him.  The facts he presents are distorted and I stand by the success of the US Public Healthcare system as proof of that.  As for David Walters......well if you thought our deficit was bad now just wait to see how bad it gets once we are playing world police.
Keeping this in mind how hard is it to see that the most logical choice is to indeed go west?

[Mechaman]

National Rifle Association endorses incumbent US Senator Scott Westman
Gun Owners of America endorses incumbent US Senator Scott Westman
Americans for Drug Reform endorses incumbent US Senator Scott Westman
NARAL Pro-Choice America endorses incumbent US Senator Scott Westman
Alternative Energy America endorses incumbent US Senator Scott Westman
American Civil Liberties Union endorses incumbent US Senator Scott Westman
Human Rights Campaign endorses incumbent US Senator Scott Westman
Society for Human Rights endorses incumbent US Senator Scott Westman
Americans for the Equality of LGBT Individuals endorses incumbent US Senator Scott Westman

[Mechaman]

Interview February 9th, 1989
Scott Westman (D-MT)

Interviewer: And now finally I'm going to ask the infamous question.
Westman: Is it about the infamous 1982 election?
Interviewer: Yes.  Could you imagine the campaign season turning out anything like it did?
Westman laughs
Westman: Ha no, I did not.  If I had to do it all over again I probably would've gotten all of my affairs in order, to say the least.
Interviewer laughs.
Interviewer: But what about the other candidates, what would you have to say about them?
Westman: That brings me to the next thing I should've done.
Interviewer: What's that?
Westman: DON'T underestimate Roger Walters.

[Mechaman]

Deleted latest entries due to change in plan and trying to avoid a potential shark jump.

Trust me, it wouldn't make sense in the long term.

[Mechaman]

October 11th, 1982
Second Senatorial Debate
Excerpts:

Lovato:  The Senator has greatly distorted my stances.  I do support gay rights, I do support marijuana decriminalization, I even support gun rights.  What I don't support is extremism on the latter and that is why Westman thinks he can get away with labeling anybody who disagrees with him as a statist.
Westman: Brian that's because you are a statist.  The fact that you are polling above 13% shows that the people of Montana aren't falling for your big government propaganda.  They want somebody who represents liberal values and respect for this state's libertarian values, not you.
Lovato: Those are some very arrogant and closedminded words Scott.
Westman: There you go again with those politically correct attack words of yours: "closedminded".  Next thing I know you are going to call me "hate filled" and a "rich loving bigot" aren't you Brian?  Tell me how does it feel to be a holier than thou overpaid union member?
Moderator: Jesus gentlemen, a little decorum here?

D'Israeli: The Republican agenda for Montana is fully in line with it's libertarian values, unlike the "liberal" views of Westman that endorses government take over of our healthcare system.
Westman: Is healthcare the only thing you have against me?  Ladies and gentlemen, the fact that healthcare is the only difference that D'Israeli can show between me and him speaks volumes about the weakness of his campaign.  He is a friggin me-too Republican and you might as well vote for me.  The only difference is that when you re-elect Scott Westman you will still have healthcare.
D'Israeli: Vote for D'Israeli, the only difference between me and Westman is that when I'm elected the government will get out of your wallet.

Walters: What this state needs is someone who is strong on American defense, something that none of the other front runners in this election are strong on.  If you are worried about the threats to this nation from far left radical states like the Socialist Republic of Yugoslavia, the Socialist Republic of Galicia, the Social Democratic Republic of New Russia, the Democratic Republic of Egypt, the Galician Free State, and the Persian People's Republic then this is the party for you.  For far too long America has ignored the silent creeping of socialism world wide.  How many more states shall fall to the spectre of socialism before action is taken?  How much longer must we wait till this ghost finally is at our door?  The end of Communist Russia and China was not the end of the war, but merely the beginning of new conflict between the forces of Capitalism and "subtle socialism".
Westman: I find this view of international politics quite frightening.
Walters: It's better than just sitting back and wait until the ghost of socialism takes us over Scott.
Westman: Yes like I'm sure that strong armed military intervention will keep support for capitalism strong in those countries.  Just as sure I am that the United Irish Republic and the Brazilian Confederation are just itching to attack us.
Walters: Those states are different.  They have shown a willingness to cooperate with the United States and not force socialism on their citizens.
Westman: And the Social Democratic Republic of New Russia doesn't?  Which country again is it that Tobin MacMahon has opened his latest resort on the Caspian Sea?  Your interpretation of "socialist state" needs much working.
Walters: And you Westman show a great willingness to come to defense of states that are obviously totalitarian over those who at least gives their citizens a modicum of freedom.

Walters: No longer will I and millions of Americans let this issue subside.  There are some issues we have left up to the states, this one should not be.
D'Israeli: Violating the rights of states to dictate their own social policies is unconstitutional is it not?
Walters: In the case of defending life I would argue that it is not.  After these past two years it has become more apparent now than ever, with the rise of women travelling over states lines in record numbers to get abortions, that this is a problem that can't be limited via federalism.  A nationwide legalization would only lead to a spike in abortions since millions of Americans would accept the idea that life does not begin at conception.  I make no apologies for this position: such a result is unacceptable.  This is one of the cornerstones of this campaign.  I will not budge.

Many people would perceive Westman's confrontational attitude throughout the speech as negative, thus leading to a poll decline of 2 points.  However, David Walters would widely be considered the winner of the second debate by a majority of debate watchers and in the next day's poll he would end up inexplicably in the lead with .8 points ahead of Westman.
With one more debate left in late October, Westman would have to craft a new strategy to combat the rising star of David Walters.

[Mechaman]

October 13th-October 28th, 1982:

Scott Westman goes on a statewide tour of Montana, stopping at every town and city in Montana.  In his tour he covers important issues to Montanans, focusing mostly on strengthening environmental standards and regulations, the benefits of free trade with Canada, support for alternative energy, and defending the record of the US Public Healthcare system.  By October 28th his performance on the tour would better his prospects for re-election, bringing him way ahead of Lovato and D'Israeli.  It seemed his abundance of funds to spend on a statewide tour would give him an edge over his opponents.  However, not all was roses.
Walters had managed to gain a massive fundraising boost as coffers came from all around the nation to help him get enough funds to make a last minute push with various tv ads, radio ads, and even a state wide tour of his own in "swing towns and cities" around Montana while Westman (who promised to visit every town and city in Montana) would stop even in places where he had no chance.
By the time of the final debate the two were in a statistical deadheat at 29.1% Westman and 29.07% Walters.  Due to the large lead over everyone else many would consider the Montana race a two man race from that point on as progressive support for Lovato died off as he was perceived as being in the race as he was perceived as being more "anti-Westman" than progressive and pro-life support for D'Israeli died off when they perceived him as a "Me-too" libertarian Republican to Westman's liberal libertarianism.  The endorsement of the Classical Liberal Party didn't help at all it seemed, but rather painted D'Israeli as a libertarian radical and cost him votes.
David Walters, who wasn't even in the race as late as early July was going toe to toe with the state's popular incumbent senator.

[Mechaman]

Final US Senate Debate
October 29th, 1982
Excerpts:

Westman: As you all can see by now that I am the most pragmatic and representative choice out of the major front runners.
Lovato: Or the most deceitful and the biggest sellout to corporate interests.
Westman: Hush!  You're just hurt that you are currently polling at a measly 13%!

D'Israeli: I know the poll numbers don't looks so well right now but the people of Montana still have an alternative to bigger government in the Republican Party.
Westman: Or if you are too lazy to vote Democrat you could vote Republican.  After all there is very little difference between the two, at least in this election.
Walters: Or you could vote for a real alternative that is more representative of the conservative people of Montana with the Conservative Party.  After all, life is a little boring with only two parties!

Walters: What has disturbed me the most is the aloofness of our Senator.  He seems to not understand the peril of the issues before us today: the state of the US army, the readiness of defense in this nation to a terror attack, the importance a free market plays in the healthcare of this nation, how government intervention has ultimately caused medical premiums to skyrocket, and how his support of nationalized abortion will put millions of new lives into the ash heap of history.  If we continue going down this road, as a state and as a people, behind Senator Westman it will be disaster for this state and this nation.  Already Senator Westman has helped radically speed up the decriminalization of harmful drugs that were illegal before he came into office, with his help the death penalty has remained abolished for over a decade, with his help the right of business owners to hire the best qualified employee or for colleges to accept the best students has now been weakened in favor of feel good "affirmative action" laws that are misguided, already he has helped pen legislation that has greatly weakened the oil and gas industry in favor of less efficient "alternative fuels".  I've been to Michigan, I've been to Christian Mattingly's dealership, his oil and gas powered cars run more efficiently and go farther than any of the proposed solar powered cars being proposed by Westman in the Senate.  His radical zeal for neo-environmentalism as a solution to almost any problem, well except for maybe healthcare (audience laughs), is astounding.  What did Scott Westman go into his first grade math class and thought that two plus two equals "clean coal"? (audience laughs)  What we don't need is a Senator Moonbeam, we need a Senator in office for the best of the people of Montana.  I believe that frankly I am the best qualified candidate for that requirement.

Westman: I do acknowledge that my opponent, Mr. Walters, has a very strong campaign behind him and a revived national movement of conservatism, however when compared to the average Montanan his values differ quite a bit.  Mr. Walters talks a lot about preserving life....unless of course it comes to our publicly funded national healthcare system that has already saved millions of lives and innovated many in the healthcare sector of our private economy.  Yes!  Unlike what my two other opponents will tell you there are benefits to be made for private enterprise with the help of a government financed medical system!  However, my more conservative opponents will assert that I am a big government authoritarian simply because I believe it is a moral duty for the government to be able to take care of the disabled and ill.  My bad guys, I didn't realize that having a government run health care option that heals millions of people who otherwise would not be able to afford such care was a bad thing.  I also had no idea, Mister Lovato, that allowing free enterprise to continue operating in the medical field was such an immoral act worthy of condemnation.  I had no idea that the only way that healthcare can work in this nation is if we stifled private innovation and simply, as you believe, leave everything up to the government.  I'm sorry fellas that my approach to this issue is more thought out than your "all or nothing" and black and white views of the matter, but that is why I'm the Senator of this state and will win re-election while you guys go back to your day jobs.  It was a nice time debating you on all of these debates and exchanging ideas but it is clear to me, and the people watching this debate, that I am clearly the most qualified person on this stage to represent Montana in the United States Senate.

Westman and Walters strong arguments would help make the final Montana debate one of the most exciting debates in the history of US Senate debates.  Westman would win the final debate, barely, and the momentum would help propel him to a .21 lead over Walters before election day on November 2nd.  However, there is something that both candidates forgot to consider: Run-off Rules.

[Mechaman]

Montana US Senate Election Law Section 2971b (revised 04/13/1981)

In the event that no candidate receives more than 40% of the vote in a US Senate Election a run-off election shall be held no later than two weeks after the original election.  This time frame exists to give the candidates and election workers a little bit of breathing room.  Any candidate on the ballot who either (a) receives less than 10% of the total vote, or (b) can't win the election with the votes of candidates who have dropped out, will be ineligible for the run-off.  For example: if Candidate C is so far behind Candidate B and Candidate A that he can't win with the votes of Candidates D, E, and F he will be ineligible for the run-off election.  This process has been adopted to prevent any possible headaches that a long drawn out "everything goes" election season might have.

With the race so close with still somewhat strong poll performances for Lovato and D'Israeli could Westman or Walters win the election with 40% of the vote?  Or will they be forced into a run-off?

[Mechaman]

November 2nd, 1982:

All around the nation voters are turning out to the polls to elect US Congressmen.  With approval ratings for the Constitution Party at an all time low it is likely that massive gains for Democrats and Republicans can be expected.  However, not all is sunny for the two major parties as a significant number of right wing third party ticket have been formed to run against the perceived abandonment of conservatism amongst the two major parties.  Of note the Conservative Party of New York is running Richard J. Harrison, a pro-life Catholic, against incumbent Democrat Daniel P. Moynihan, a pro-choice Catholic, and the race in Montana between incumbent Democratic Senator Scott Westman, another pro-choice Catholic, and Roger Walters, another pro-life Catholic.  This split amongst American Catholics over the abortion issue may prove to be a great bane to the Democratic Party that has run quite a few pro-choice Democrats in nationwide elections this year.  Catholics, traditionally a Democratic group, are showing huge leans towards conservative third parties in light of the abortion debate.  In the 1980 Election Walter Mondale, a Democrat, managed to win only 42% of the Catholic vote and 58% of the Irish Catholic vote (a group which voted over 92% for RFK in 1972 and over 81% for Reagan in 1976).  Democrats hope to recoup those losses and others tonight by regaining traditionally Democratic seats in the South that are currently being held by Constitution Party members and by appealing to Hispanics and Asians on the West Coast as well as traditional mining communities in the Rocky Mountain West.  However, these gains might not be possible with a bitterly divided Irish Catholic voting bloc, a voting bloc that has remained solid from the birth of the Democratic Party until last election, due to the controversial issue of abortion.  Never before has a social issue such as the abortion issue been so divisive to an otherwise mega Democratic voting bloc.  Pro-life Democrats in US Congress are benefitting greatly from their pro-life stances, almost certainly coasting to re-election in a midterm.  However, the majority who have embraced pro-choice views may find themselves ending up with a rare midterm net loss of seats due to taking a controversial stand for abortion legalization.
On a side note in the northeast "Progressive" and "Moderate Reform" candidates are looking to be benefiting from moderate Republican votes and progressive Democrats who feel as if their parties have abandoned the progressive agenda.  Already approval ratings for these parties amongst groups like inner city blacks, intellectuals, and suburbanites is looking good for the Progressive Coalition.

And now onto the Montana Election:

This is CBS News:

Rather:  Good evening I'm Dan Rather.  Tonight we have a very tight race between incumbent US Senator Scott Westman of Montana and his closest opponent David P. Walters.  We will be paying particular focus on this race throughout the night, but now let's go back to the overall analysis.

[Commercial Break]

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[Mechaman]

US Senate as of November 2nd, 1982:

Alabama:
Class 2: Howell T. Heflin (Constitution)
Class 3: Jeremiah Denton (Constitution)
Alaska:
Class 2: Theodore Stevens (Republican)
Class 3: Walter Hickel (Constitution)
Arizona:
Class 1: Morris Udall (Democratic)
Class 3: Barry Goldwater (Republican)
Arkansas:
Class 2: William J. Clinton (Democratic)
Class 3: William Clark (Constitution)
California:
Class 1: Ricardo Montalban(Republican)
Class 3: Michael V. Hawk (Republican)
Colorado:
Class 2: Carlos Mendez(Republican)
Class 3: Mary E. Buchanan (Republican)
Connecticut:
Class 1: Lowell P. Weicker (Moderate Reform)
Class 3: Christopher J. Dodd (Democratic)
Delaware:
Class 1: William V. Roth (Republican)
Class 2: Joseph R. Biden, Jr. (Democratic)
Florida:
Class 1: Lawton Chiles (Democratic)
Class 3: Roy Holland (Constitution)
Georgia:
Class 2: Fletcher Thompson (Constitution)
Class 3: Mack Mattingly (Constitution)
Hawaii:
Class 1: Spark M. Matsunga (Democratic)
Class 3: Don Djou (Republican)
Idaho:
Class 2: James A. McClure (Republican)
Class 3: Steve Symms (Constitution)
Illinois:
Class 1: Farley H. Murray (Democratic)
Class 3: Daniel Crane (Republican)
Indiana:
Class 1: Richard Lugar (Republican)
Class 3: Collins McCarn (Constitution)
Iowa:
Class 2: John Kyl (Republican)
Class 3: Mark Gladden (Constitution)
Kansas:
Class 2: Robert J. Dole (Republican)
Class 3: Larry Winn (Constitution)
Kentucky:
Class 2: Walter Huddleston (Constitution)
Class 3: Gene Snyder (Constitution)
Louisiana:
Class 2: Moon Landrieu (Democratic)
Class 3: Joe D. Waggonner (Constitution)
Maine:
Class 1: Monteaux LeDeax (Republican)
Class 2: William Cohen (Republican)
Maryland:
Class 1: Sargent Shriver (Democratic)
Class 3: Charles Matthias (Republican)
Massachusetts:
Class 1: Daniel M. Lynch(Democratic)
Class 2: William Saltonstall (Republican)
Michigan:
Class 1: Lenore Romney (Republican)
Class 2: Henry Claymore (Democratic)
Minnesota:
Class 1: David Durenberger (Republican)
Class 2: Walter Mondale (DFL)
Mississippi:
Class 1: John C. Stennis
Class 2: James O. Eastland (Dixiecrat)
Missouri:
Class 1: John Danforth (Republican)
Class 3: Thomas Eagleton (Democratic)
Montana:
Class 1: Scott Westman (Democratic)
Class 2: Max Baucus (Democratic)
Nebraska:
Class 1: Virginia Smith (Republican)
Class 2: Paul Mercanti (Republican)
Nevada:
Class 1: Mike O'Callaghan (Democratic)
Class 3: Paul Laxalt (Republican)
New Hampshire:
Class 2: Thaddeus Michaels (Republican)*
Class 3: Warren Rudman (Republican)
New Jersey:
Class 1: William K. Everson (Republican)*
Class 2: Bill Bradley (Democratic)
New Mexico:
Class 1: Raul Ramirez (Democratic)
Class 2: Harrison Schmitt (Republican)
New York:
Class 1: Daniel P. Moynihan (Democratic)
Class 3: David P. Killian (Democratic)
North Carolina:
Class 2: Bradley Moore (Constitution)
Class 3: John P. East (Constitution)
North Dakota:
Class 1: Robert Stroup (Republican)
Class 3: Anthony Williams (Constitution)
Ohio:
Class 1: Robert Taft Jr. (Republican)
Class 3: John Glenn (Democratic)
Oklahoma:
Class 2: James Robert Jones (Democratic)
Class 3: Don Nickles (Constitution)
Oregon:
Class 2: Mark Hatfield (Republican)
Class 3: Robert Packwood (Republican)
Pennsylvania:
Class 1: H. John Heinz III (Republican)
Class 2: Lawrence Watson (Democratic)
Rhode Island:
Class 1: John Chafee (Moderate Reform)
Class 2: Ruth M. Briggs (Republican)
South Carolina:
Class 2: Strom Thurmond (Constitution)
Class 3: Charlie Rhodes (Constitution)
South Dakota:
Class 2: Larry Pressler (Republican)
Class 3: Sean O'Brien (Constitution)
Tennessee:
Class 1: Bill Boner (Democratic)
Class 2: Howard Baker (Republican)
Texas:
Class 1: Lloyd Bentsen (Democratic)
Class 2: James Wright (Democratic)
Utah:
Class 1: Orrin Hatch (Republican)
Class 3: Quentin Maxwell (Constitution)
Vermont:
Class 1: Robert Stafford (Moderate Reform)
Class 3: Richard W. Mallary (Moderate Reform)
Virginia:
Class 1: Charles C. Gooding (Democratic)
Class 2: Tobin MacMahon (Democratic)
Washington:
Class 1: Allan B. Swift (Democratic)
Class 3: Harry Callahan (Republican)
West Virginia:
Class 1: Robert Byrd (Democratic)
Class 2: Alan Mollohan (Democratic)
Wisconsin:
Class 1: William Proxmire (Democratic)
Class 3: William R. Goodman (Republican)
Wyoming:
Class 1: Alan K. Simpson (Republican)
Class 2: Beauregard D'Israeli (Republican)

Bump, for my convenience.
Changes are in bold.

*stands for awaiting special election.

[Mechaman]

In later years, Moynihan moderated on his pro-choice position and from what I recall, was against partial-birth abortions. I'll check though. How's Texas looking?

True.
Keep in mind though that this America is quite a bit more pro-life than IRL.  In this timeline even a majority of pro-choicers would probably be opposed to partial birth abortion.  There hasn't been a Roe V. Wade equivalent in this timeline and states still decide whether or not to allow abortion within their states.  So in that respect Moyniahn is considered pro-choice in this timeline.
So far the most pro-choice state is Texas (just to make this weirder) with Arizona in a close second.

The Texas race looks like it will be close between Charles Stenholm and Ronald Paul.  The Constitution Party is looking to do very bad this year due to lack of support amongst conservatives/populists who due to identity politics still identify as Democrats.  In fact I would say that the Texas Democratic Party is probably overall a moderate party that just happens to be very liberal on abortion and very conservative on the death penalty (you could say they are "pro-death").

[Mechaman]

It seems like Texas on social issues is a bit like Lloyd Bentsen himself in that it supports the death penalty and is pro-choice. Also, when looking over the Senate, I noticed that Ricardo Mantalban is in the Senate as a Republican. I also noticed that you kept the anti-war Robert Taft Jr. In office as well.

I have a couple questions:
Who's in Crane's cabinet?
How is Barry Goldwater Jr. doing?
Does Mendelik D'Israeli have any political experience?

Mendelik D'Israeli served in the state House of Montana for a few years.
Barry Goldwater Jr. is planning to run for California Governor soon.
Cabinet.....gee I haven't gotten that far.  All I know is that it will involve James Buckley and David Eisenhower in some kind of position along with some made up people.  Oh and one of the Rockefellers is the Secretary of State.

I put Ricardo in there for kicks, though this universe will suck without KHHHHHAAAAAAAAANNNNN!!!!!