"Cordell for President" - Political Story (COMMENTS WELCOME)

[Reaganfan]

I have begun writing a political story about a corrupt Governor running for President, in the form of a movie script. I've gone all guns blazing...so there is some adult content. Tell me what you think...



OPEN: Governor's Mansion, Oklahoma

Governor John Cordell, 53 years old, African American, beard, lays in bed with a young woman, mid-20s, who lites up a cigarette. He turns on the television infront of the bed.

TV ANNOUNCER: President Iverson has officially kicked off his re-election campaign despite polls showing that a majority of Americans disagree with him on his tax proposal which would raise taxes on many American families. Even members of the President's own party have rejected what some call his "socialist" tax plans.

Cordell: Let me tell ya little darlin', when I'm in the White House I'm gonna f*** ya right there in the Lincoln bedroom.
Woman: Governor, you're a class act.

SHIFT FORWARD TO "Cordell for President" rally three weeks later...

Cordell: I'm runnin' for President because I damn well know the American people can't take anymore of this President and his plans to snub the Middle Class!

Crowd cheers

Cordell: I know I'm way out here in Oklahoma and President Iverson might not know much about me...but dammit Jack, people out here sure know how bad you're administration has hurt them and they're not gonna take it anymore!

Crowd cheers

SHIFT: White House, Oval Office

The President of the United States, Jack Iverson, 50 years old, dark brown hair slightly gray, stands near the fireplace looking at a picture of Teddy Roosevelt. Advisor Bill Thomas stands next to him.

Iverson: Cordell is the troublemaker.
Thomas: Sir, polls show Senator Harris far ahead of Cordell in polls...
Iverson: You don't know John Cordell, do you? The man is the biggest crook in all of Middle America. Bigger than cronies in Chicago or New York. That son of a bitch had so much voting fraud...I think he's well aware he didn't win that race.
Thomas: But last year, he was re-elected unopposed.
Iverson: OF COURSE HE WAS UNOPPOSED! That bastard would have creamed anybody we could have put up. I'm telling you Bill...he's gonna cheat his way to the nomination and then cheat his way here.
Thomas: Quite frankly sir, he may not have to cheat his way here.

(BEAT)

Iverson: Leave, Bill.
Thomas: I didn't mean any disrespec-
Iverson: I SAID LEAVE NOW!

SHIFT: Governor's Mansion, Office

Governor John Cordell looks in the mirror, straightens his tie, turns and opens the door. A man is waiting outside the door.

Cordell: PAUL FRANKLIN!
Franklin: Mr. Governor, how are you sir?
Cordell: Just fine Paul, how are things over at the DNC?
Franklin: Better than four years ago!
Cordell: (Laughs) Yes well Iverson keeps giving us everything we need!
Franklin: That's for sure!
Cordell: Sit down Paul, please. Paul...you gotta give me grassroots.
Franklin: What do you mean?
Cordell: Greg Harris...that c***sucker has a lock in the polls and I wanna take him down.
Franklin: Governor, he is the Senior Senator from New Jersey, I think he has the whole gameplan.
Cordell:  F*** what he has...give me what I need!
Franklin: I'm the Chief of Staff of the Democratic National Committee
Cordell: AND I am chair of the National Governor's Association...I can win...I can get us back to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue...I can and Harris can't! You know that, Paul...you know that!
Franklin: I have to remain independent during the primaries and...

Governor Cordell grabs the tie of Paul Franklin and pushes him against a tall brown cabinet.

Cordell: Now you listen to me you four eyed weasel c***sucker...tomorrow afternoon my Secretary will walk in with a message...a message from you with a number...a number to a list of people who are gonna help me win this f***ing nomination and beat that f***ing son of a bitch. You turn against me or tell anyone about this...and you not only won't be part of the DNC but you won't be part of this planet either....you read me?
(BEAT)
Franklin: We'll be in touch.

SCENE SHIFTS TO WHITE HOUSE ROSE GARDEN, LATE AUGUST

Iverson: Kelly, go ahead.
Reporter: Mr. President, polls show that Senator Harris is currently trailing you and Vice President Quinn by 20 pts. Do you feel that this race will be an uphill battle or easy for you?
Iverson: Kelly...you know...I don't follow polls. I just don't trust them. You may recall, when I was running for Governor of Wisconsin, polls showed me ahead by 15 pts and I won by only 2 so...no I don't think it will be easy...and quite frankly I'm not sure that Senator Harris will even be my opponent.
Reporter: Who do you think will be?
Iverson: Let's wait and see.

SCENE SHIFTS TO INSIDE GOVERNOR'S OFFICE. Governor Cordell is having sex with his secretary, Victoria Neil, a woman, mid-40s, long blonde hair. The phone rings.

Cordell: WHO THE HELL! (Answers Phone) HELLO?!? .... YES HONEY... I HAD TO STAY HERE LATE...IT'S THAT DAMN BUDGET PROPOSAL...I'LL BE AT THE CABIN FOR THE WEEKEND...OKAY TELL THE KIDS I LOVE THEM....LOVE YOU TOO BABE...BYE BYE.
Victoria: That your wife?
Cordell: Who the hell else would it be?
Victoria: When will you keep your promise to dump that bitch and marry me?
Cordell: Honey, I'm gonna be the President in 17 months.
Victoria: Can we have a White House wedding?
Cordell: Sure can.

Governor Cordell lites a big cigar. Victoria buttons her shirt.

Victoria: Oh yeah...I forgot to tell you...some guy called from the DNC...
Cordell: When did he call?
Victoria: Thursday.
Cordell: THURSDAY! It's Friday Night why the f*** didn't you tell me earlier?!
Victoria: I forgot...sorry.
Cordell: FORGOT! YOU DUMB BITCH!
Victoria: Well maybe if you had me being your secretary rather than your slut I wouldn't forget this sh*t!
Cordell: (whispers) Dumb bitch...

[Reaganfan]

OPEN: Governor's Mansion, Oklahoma

Governor John Cordell, 53 years old, African American, beard,

I'm already cracking up.

Best part - He's a black Governor of Oklahoma.

You must be logged in to read this quote.

What does that even mean?

I stopped reading the rest but I think we have some great news - the old Naso is back!

Just read it, please! It's fun political fiction!

[Reaganfan]

TELEVISION NEWS REPORT

Reporter: Tonight's look at the candidates will take a look at Oklahoma Governor John Cordell, candidate for the Democratic Presidential nomination. Six years ago, he faced an uphill battle against Incumbant Republican Governor Stan Burchwood. However, Governor Burchwood was marred by scandal and became the most unpopular Governor in the country at that time. Still, the election was close and some say race played a factor in Burchwood's strength. However, Cordell pulled out a narrow victory becoming the first African American Governor in Oklahoma history. Since taking office, Governor Cordell has balanced the budget, cut taxes, and Oklahoma re-elected him all but unopposed last year in the Democratic mid-term Gubernatorial sweep.

Now, he wants to be President of the United States. We sat down yesterday and asked the Governor why he is running for President.

Reporter: Governor Cordell...I know every candidate gets asked this...but why are you running for President?
Cordell: I believe there have been a great deal of people in Middle America who have been hurting under this President and I think that we need real solutions that I believe I can impliment as President.
Reporter: I have a few primary polls for you out of Iowa...a state here in Middle America..a state that went for the Iverson/Quinn campaign four years ago...Iowa Caucus poll shows that for the Democratic nomination you trail Senator Harris by 34 points. How can you compete?
Cordell: It's still early, Bridget, and I know that the people here in Oklahoma and there in Iowa and Michigan and New Hampshire and Florida all have the same cares that I am fighting hard for...and I am very confident that we will do just fine.

TELEVISION TURNS OFF...Scene shifts to den in log cabin....mid-October. Governor Cordell sits on the couch next to his  44 year old wife, Leslie Cordell, and his 10 year old daughter, Ashley Winston Cordell.

Ashley: Daddy...do you really think you can win?
Cordell: Sweetie...politics is a dirty game...and there can be winners and losers. I lost a race for the State Senate way back before you were even born. But sometimes...in defeat...it makes you stronger than you were before.
Ashley: I told my friend Kaitlyn Mustner that you were running for President and she told me her daddy called you a "jackass".
Leslie: ASHLEY! Watch the language, young lady!
Ashley: Sorry mommy.
Cordell: Honey, like I said...politics is a dirty game....a dirty game...
Ashley: Can we make popcorn, daddy?
Cordell: You bet! Why don't you go to the kitchen and get started...I'll be right behind you.
Ashley: Okay! (She gives her father a kiss and runs out of the den)
Leslie: You know she's right, John.
Cordell: About politics being a dirty game?
Leslie: No...about you being a jackass.
Cordell: Very funny baby...

They kiss as scene ends.

SCENE SHIFTS TO A CONFERENCE ROOM IN DES MOINES, IOWA... IN THE ROOM STAND THREE STAFFERS AROUND A SMALL CONFERENCE TABLE WEARING "CORDELL FOR PRESIDENT" BUTTONS. One woman, mid-20s, one man, African American, mid-30s, and one man, mid-20s. Governor Cordell walks in the room.

Woman Staffer: Governor Cordell! How are you?
Cordell: Well hello there, little lady...I'm fine, I'm fine...just gettin' ready for Thanksgiving tomorrow!
Male Staffer 1: Governor it's a pleasure.
Male Staffer 2: Sir, nice to see you.
Cordell: Okay guys and girls...how do we look here in Iowa?
Male Staffer 2: Well sir, we have our office set up here and we are sending flyers out starting Monday...and we have you scheduled to speak at ten events next week.
Cordell: Sounds good, young man.
Woman Staffer: Also, I would mention a brand new Des Moines Register poll shows it 55-35% between you and Harris...but that's a loss of 5 points for Harris and a gain of 4 points for you, sir.
Cordell: That's what I wanna hear...

END SCENE

[Reaganfan]

Cut to White House - Christmas Eve - President Jack Iverson stands next to First Lady Jeanne Iverson and 17 year old daughter Rachel at White House party. President Iverson walks over to Senator Nick Alpensi of Pennsylvania.

Iverson: Senator, Merry Christmas!
Alpensi: Mr. President, Merry Christmas, Mrs. Iverson you look marvelous tonight
First Lady: Thank you, Senator.
Iverson: I would greatly appreciate your support this year.
Alpensi: Of course, Mr. President...and we'll deliever Pennsylvania for you and Vice President Quinn again, sir.
Iverson: Vice President Quinn said he was unsure whether or not to stay on the ticket this year and I said, "Hank...we couldn't have won four years ago without carrying your homestate of Utah."
Alpensi: (laughs) By that point...you didn't need to even worry.
Iverson: Yeah, the Electoral Map looked quite good then. Alot better than it does now.
Alpensi: I wouldn't worry, sir.
Iverson: I saw on the news an electoral map scenario...where Harris decimates me.
Alpensi: Nah, I wouldn't worry about Harris.
Iverson: It's not Harris I'm worried about...it's Cordell.
Alpensi: Cordell? Last time I checked he was down 10 points in Iowa.
Iverson: Yeah...but that is 30 points better than a year ago...I saw a report that he opened three more campaign offices there yesterday and was hoping for an upset.
Alpensi: Is he the one you fear the most, sir?
Iverson: To put it bluntly...yes. I think I would cream Harris. We have about ten clips of him talking about how raising taxes was a "good thing to do".
Alpensi: Mr. President...don't worry...this place will be your home for four more years. Merry Christmas.
Iverson: Same to you, Senator.

SCENE SWITCHES TO CHEAP HOTEL OFF A SNOWY IOWA ROAD - Governor Cordell finishes having sex with a young woman and lights up a big cigar in bed.

Cordell: Ah...Merry Christmas to me...
Woman: Don't you have somewhere to be tonight?
Cordell: Ah...I gotta be back to the hotel by nine for gifts and "It's a Wonderful Life".
Woman: It's nice to have a place to go for the holidays...isn't it?
Cordell: Yeah...I guess it is...sometimes I risk it by doing this.
Woman: Why do you do it, then?
Cordell: Because I'm the Governor...I can do whatever I want.
Woman: Even beat the President?
Cordell: ESPECIALLY beat the President!

Silence for a few moments

Cordell: Well...I have to go. Thanks baby...Merry Christmas.
Woman: Merry Christmas, Mr. Governor.

FLASH TO NEW YEARS DAY - NEWS REPORT ON TELEVISION

Reporter: Governor John Cordell of Oklahoma is beginning to feel a boost of momentum on the campaign trail in Iowa.
Cordell: WE WILL WIN IOWA...AND WE WILL TAKE OUR COUNTRY BACK FROM THIS RAW DEAL THAT THE IVERSON ADMINISTRATION HAS THRUST BEFORE US!
Reporter: Cordell has pulled even with New Jersey Senator Greg Harris and some polls even show him ahead just two days before the all important Iowa Caucus.

SHIFT TO ROOM AT CAMPAIGN HEADQUARTERS - MANCHESTER, NEW HAMPSHIRE. A large crowd awaits Governor Cordell as he arrives from a dark and snowy night outdoors. Crowd cheers as Cordell walks in room.

Cordell: WELL! WELL! THANK YOU ALL! WOW...what a great way to start the new year!
Staffer: Governor Cordell, here's your microphone. (Cordell takes mic)
Cordell: THANK YOU! THANK YOU! After we win in Iowa...will New Hampshire deliever for us?
Crowd: YES!
Cordell: Will we go and win this nomination?
Crowd: YES!
Cordell: And will we kick Jack Iverson and Hank Quinn out of the White House?
Crowd: YES!
Cordell: THEN LET'S GET TO WORK AND GET OUT THE VOTE!!

SCENE ENDS

WHITE HOUSE - President Iverson and Vice President Quinn watch cable news networks.

Reporter: With about 65% of Iowa Precincts reporting, the results are still too close to call. Harris currently has 41% and Cordell current has 39%, other minor contenders like Georgia Congressman Kit Huntley have 15% but the real race is of course between Harris and Cordell.

Quinn: If Cordell gets this thing...we're in deep sh**t, sir.
Iverson: I know, Hank...I know.

SWITCH TO HOTEL ROOM IN DES MOINES, IOWA - Governor Cordell and his wife Leslie watch results.

Cordell: I'm gonna win...I'm gonna win...I better win dammit.
Leslie: Honey, you've run a great race anyway...
Cordell: DON'T TELL ME WHAT I KNOW!
Leslie: WHY ARE YOU YELLING AT ME?
Cordell: BECAUSE I DESERVE TO WIN!

REPORT COMES IN ON TELEVISION

Reporter: With 99% of Iowa Precincts reporting...we now project that Senator Greg Harris of New Jersey has narrowly beaten Oklahoma Governor John

Cordell. Tom, let me ask you....is this the end for Cordell?
Tom: I think so Julie..

GOVERNOR CORDELL TAKES A GLASS ASH TRAY OFF DRESSER AND THROWS IT AT TELEVISION KNOCKING IT OFF STAND AND BREAKING IT. HE BEGINS TO KICK IT AND SWEAR IN RAGE.

Cordell: MOTHERF***ING SON OF A BITCH S*** C***SUCKING BASTARD!
Leslie: John, CALM DOWN!
Cordell: THAT C***SUCKING BASTARD DOESN'T EVEN LIVE IN THIS PART OF THE COUNTRY AND HE F***ING BEATS ME...BULL F***ING sh**t!

SCENE SHIFTS TO INDOOR IOWA RALLY ONE HOUR LATER

Cordell: I of course admire Senator Harris and look forward to more tough and hard fought races in New Hampshire and Michigan, and I am confident that I will be the nominee of the Democratic Party and that I will be the next President of the United States!

CROWD WILDLY CHEERS - MUSIC PLAYS - GOVERNOR CORDELL, WIFE LESLIE, DAUGHTER ASHLEY LEAVE STAGE HUGGING AND WAVING

END SCENE

[Reaganfan]

Mike, we are totally making this into a movie.  Best independent film since Juno.

Well thanks for the single favorable response, Inks. That's actually what I "intended" it to be...but I doubt of course it would ever happen. Nevertheless, there are so many "real life" fiction stories...I figured something a little different should be added into the mix.

Here are general looks at what each of the main characters look like in my story:

John Cordell - If I ever did make a movie, our good forum pal DemRepDan would be my absolute first choice to play him. I already showed him the story and he liked it alot. So when you read of "Governor John Cordell", picture him as I do...



President Jack Iverson - I see him as similar to actor Tim Matheson from "The West Wing". Middle-age, dark/grayish short hair.

Keep reading...and please give thoughts/opinions on the way the storyline is playing out!

[Reaganfan]

Naso, why is an African-American Governor of Oklahoma? I mean this is Oklahoma we are talking about.

Read and find out.

[Reaganfan]

Scene Shifts to Staff Meeting in Manchester, NH...five days away from the New Hampshire Primary.

Cordell: Where do I stand now?
Staffer: The latest University poll shows you trailing Senator Harris by 6 points
Cordell: Any other polls?
Staffer: Another shows you down by nine, sir.

Cordell is silent for a moment, then picks up a chair and throws it at the wall.

Cordell: SON OF A BITCH!! That bastard can not win...this nomination is mine not HIS!
Staffer: Sir, we have ads on and we have flyers out but...
Cordell: BUT, what?
Staffer: That loss in Iowa really hurt us.
Cordell: Dammit!

Scene shifts to Senator Greg Harris, 60 years old, balding slightly, sitting at his desk.

Secretary: Senator Harris?
Harris: Yes?
Secretary: We have Governor John Cordell on the line for you.
Harris: (picks up phone) Hi, Mr. Governor...what can I do for you today?

SCENE SHOWS CORDELL IN AN EMPTY CONFERENCE ROOM IN NEW HAMPSHIRE WITH "CORDELL FOR PRESIDENT" SIGNS EVERYWHERE.

Cordell: Senator...remember that intern who helped you out during your first Congressional run?
(BEAT)
Harris: I've had many interns, Governor...why do you ask?
Cordell: This one was a woman...her name was Kate Garfield, remember her?

SCENE SHIFTS TO HARRIS' STUNNED FACE AS CORDELL SPEAKS OVER PHONE

Cordell: She was a 17 year old...not legal yet...not old enough to vote...but she loved politics and wanted to see you elected to Congress. She liked you quite a bit infact...she liked you so much that you took her alone to your campaign office one lonely night 15 years ago and-
Harris: Alright...you listen to me you son of a bitch...I don't know what the hell you think you have on me but you're wrong. That dumb bimbo probably hasn't lived in New Jersey for 10 years and she'd be-
Cordell: 32 years old, married, now one Kate Simon, mother of two, living peacefully as a Sales Representative with her husband Ken in Fairfax, Virginia.
Harris: What do you want from me, Governor?
Cordell: Close a few offices...in South Carolina...become "over-confident" and lessen your campaign staff. Purposely fall behind and let me beat you in the primary.
Harris: What if I said no?
Cordell: Then I'll unleash pretty Kate on your ass and not only take you down in this primary but make you resign your Senate seat in disgrace. I will make your life a living hell.
Harris: (SILENCE FOR A MOMENT) I'll see what I can do.

PHONE CALL ENDS, GOVERNOR CORDELL DAWNS A TOOTHY GRIN AND PUTS A CIGAR IN HIS MOUTH LAUGHING WILDLY

END SCENE

SCENE OPENS ON A SUNNY, JANUARY DAY IN SOUTH CAROLINA. NEWSPAPER HEADLINE READS "CORDELL SURGES IN POLLS IN SOUTH CAROLINA".

Governor Cordell takes questions at a local coffee shop.

Woman: Governor Cordell, the latest national polls show you trailing President Iverson by 8 points...do you believe this race is winnable?
Cordell: Yes, ma'am. Infact, I believe the race is so winnable that I am running for it!
Crowd: (laughs)
Cordell: Senator Harris is a worthy opponent, and I have no doubt that President Iverson has a patriotic love for this country...but it's time to help out the Middle Class in this country. They are hurting...unemployment is at 5.5%, unexceptable in my opinion....and we must do what we can to strengthen our economy and I believe I can do that as President.

END SCENE

[Reaganfan]

The plot overall is actually pretty entertaining. I think where it's lacking though is the depth and format. It's much too quick moving to be a watchable movie.

I'll work on that.

[Reaganfan]

SCENE STARTS: MID-APRIL, A BUZZING CAMPAIGN OFFICE WITH "CORDELL" SIGNS ON THE WALLS, PHONES RINGING, PAPERS ALL OVER DESKS, SHIFT INSIDE TO A CLOSED CONFERENCE ROOM FILLED WITH PEOPLE AROUND A TABLE, GOVERNOR JOHN CORDELL STANDS AT THE FRONT OF THE TABLE, SUIT JACKET OFF, BLUE TIE LOOSENED, SLEEVES ROLLED UP

Cordell: Okay folks, here's the gameplan. We have gotten way beyond the delegates we need for this nomination. Harris is out of the picture, they're already writing his political obituary.
Staffer: Yes sir...it's almost as if he wanted to lose.
Cordell: (BRIEFLY LOOKS AT STAFFER DUMBFOUNDED THEN CONTINUES) I want to start building a ground game that Reagan and Obama put together wouldn't be able to beat!
Woman Staffer: Governor, we have offices opened in 42 states...we have thousands of volunteers...we're ready to take this head-on.
Cordell: Look, about six and a half years ago...I was running ahead of that jerk-off Stan Burchwood by 10 points...we had more supporters on the stump, more signs, more enthusiasm...and I barely knocked his ass off. I don't want to get cocky about this thing...but I want us to take Jack Iverson out...not by 295 electoral votes...not by 350...I wanna see Iverson lose everything...everywhere...I wanna see that concession speech given as we sweep 50 states.
Staffer: Governor...I find it hard to believe a 50-state sweep is possible.
Cordell: Why is that? I mean...we'll take Oklahoma....we'll take North Carolina...we'll take Ohio and good ole' Tennessee. We will even take Hank Quinn's homestate!
Staffer: Utah won't just go for them because the Vice President lives there...Utah hasn't voted Democratic in 68 years...Lyndon Johnson vs. Barry Goldwater.
Cordell: Sonny boy...you don't quite understand me. I have a certain way of connecting with your average voter in Oklahoma...in Texas...in Iowa and Georgia. I said months ago I would win this nomination and I have...and I WILL win this election...a year from now I'm gonna be runnin' the show in Washington and all those conservative bastards who have been runnin' Capitol Hill for a decade will have to answer to ME.

SILENCE FOR A FEW MOMENTS

Cordell: Who's hungry? Jenny ordered a big ole' party-sized sandwich from Subway...let's eat!

SCENE SHIFTS - TWO DAYS LATER - BASEBALL DIAMOND AT A PARK IN OKLAHOMA, CORDELL'S NOW 11-YEAR OLD DAUGHTER ASHLEY PLAYS BASEBALL AND GOVERNOR CORDELL STANDS BEHIND THE FENCE WITH A BASEBALL CAP ON, HOLDING A CAN OF COKE. WIFE LESLIE STANDS AT SIDE.

Cordell: HEY BATTER-BATTER-BATTER! SWING...BATTER-BATTER-BATTER!
Leslie: Oh John would you please stop! (chuckles)
Cordell:That wasn't what you said last night!
Leslie: I wasn't with you last night, John.
Cordell: (TAKEN BACK) No...I know...it was an expression.

LESLIE EYES CORDELL FOR A MOMENT SUSPICIOUSLY

Leslie: I'm gonna go get a corn dog. You want one?
Cordell: Nah I'm good, honey.

LESLIE WALKS AWAY LEAVING CORDELL STANDING AWKWARD. HIS DAUGHTER HITS THE BALL AND THE SOUND OF THE BAT ECHOES THROUGHOUT THE PARK.

END SCENE

GOVERNOR'S MANSION - OKLAHOMA, THREE DAYS LATER - Governor Cordell sits as his desk going through papers, and spots an issue of the "New York Times" with headline that reads, "CORDELL ON TRACK FOR NOMINATION". Cordell reclines in his office chair and pulls a cigar out of his suit pocket.

Just then there is a knock at the door.

Cordell: Come in.

A staffer, mid-30s, male, short brown hair, wearing a "CORDELL FOR PRESIDENT" button, walks in the office.

Cordell: How may I help you Mister...
Knox: Knox...Steve Knox. I'm a staffer at your Oklahoma campaign office.
Cordell: Nice to meet you, Steve...I appreciate the work you are doing for the campaign.
Knox: Thank you sir. I just came by to drop off a detailed report on the state of our campaign and the current management of our offices and staff.
Cordell: (cigar clenched in teeth) Ah-ha...and how does it look?
Knox: Strong, sir, strong. But...we have to decide whether or not we want to have regional headquarters or statewide offices.
Cordell: Statewide for sure...I don't wanna pull any of that regional sh*t in an election this important.
Knox: (light laugh) Yes sir...I understand how important this election is.
Cordell: (a brief deep thought) Steve, may I ask you something?
Knox: Yes, sir.
Cordell: Why did you decide to get involved in our campaign? I mean...why not jump onto Harris' ship? HELL...why not vote for the President? (Laughs)
Knox: (brief thought) Not to sound corny sir...but when I look at you...I see a remarkable leader. I see a country that isn't waist deep in sh*t, if you'll pardon the expression.
Cordell: Of course.
Knox: I see a country where unemployment is at a record low. I see a country where the rich don't get richer and the people who do the hard work are rewarded. I see a country where we don't fight with our enemies...we make peace with them. Sir...I see this country being led by you...I see you in the White House changing America for the good of the people. That's why I didn't join the Harris campaign...and that's why I'm not voting for four more years of the same, sir.
Cordell: (long pause as Cordell puffs on his cigar) Steve Knox....
Knox: Yes, Governor?
Cordell: How would you like to work under me?
Knox: What do you mean "under" you, sir?
Cordell: I mean I take you to every event...I mean I have you at my disposal whenever and wherever...I mean you become my go-to guy.
Knox: Sir...you barely know me.
Cordell: Steve...I know you more in these last five minutes then I know friends who I met 20 years ago. I can see it in your eyes...you have what it takes to be just what I need at my side.
Knox: (enthusiastically) Oh...wow...absolutely sir....I...It would be an honor.
Cordell: You have a girlfriend?
Knox: Well...there was this one girl...but it was a party 2 months ago...
Cordell: Nevermind...nevermind...I'll take care of that for you...go home...pack a bag...come back here tomorrow at 10am sharp....we'll catch a plane ride to Missouri for an event tomorrow.
Knox: Sir...I don't know what to say....
Cordell: Just say "I'll see you tomorrow, Governor."
Knox: Well...I'll see you tomorrow, Governor.
Cordell: Good man.

SCENE ENDS

[Reaganfan]

NEWSREPORT BEGINS

Reporter: With the Democratic National Convention just a little over two months away, presumptive Democratic Nominee Governor John Cordell has been stumping all across the country, rallying hard against the current administration, and promising a "wave of new leadership" if he is elected this fall.
Cordell: (on stump) AND I ASK TO YOU...DO YOU HONESTLY WANT FOUR MORE YEARS OF IVERSON AND QUINN? 
Crowd: (NO!)
Cordell: WELL THEN IT'S TIME FOR TRUE LEADERSHIP...IT'S TIME FOR US TO TAKE OUR COUNTRY BACK ON THE RIGHT PATH!
Reporter: Cordell continues to trail President Iverson by double digits...but the crowds he has been recieving on the stump are getting bigger and bigger. Whether that is because he is now the presumptive nominee...or whether enthusiasm is building...only one can speculate.

(TV TURNS OFF) SHIFT TO CABIN IN OKLAHOMA, GOVERNOR CORDELL AND HIS WIFE LESLIE LAYING IN BED.

Cordell: Hey honey...
Leslie: Yeah?
Cordell: I met with a staffer yesterday...young guy...named Steve Knox.
Leslie: What about him?
Cordell: He was sent over by the Oklahoma office to deliver campaign sh*t...and his enthusiasm caught my attention.
Leslie: Enthusiasm?
Cordell: Nah...Nah...that's the wrong word. His...his....determination.
Leslie: So what did you do?
Cordell: I basically made him my Karl Rove.
Leslie: (sits up in bed) Oh John...why would you do that? I mean...you meet him once and make him your personal secretary?
Cordell: He's not my SECRETARY...he's my go-to guy.
Leslie: But you barely know him!
Cordell: Baby...I didn't need to know him...I could just tell by talking to him...he's got what it takes.
Leslie: Well...if you say so...I guess your instincts should be trusted considering you made it all the way to this nomination.
Cordell: Baby.. .trust me.

END SCENE

OPEN - LATE MAY - OKLAHOMA CITY CAMPAIGN HEADQUARTERS - INSIDE A ROOM, GOVERNOR CORDELL, STEVEN KNOX AND FEMALE STAFFER, JESSICA NORRIS (BLONDE, EARLY 20s) SIT AROUND A CONFERENCE TABLE, A SLIDESHOW IS ON THE WALL. GOVERNOR CORDELL LIGHTS UP A BIG CIGAR

Cordell: Okay guys and girls...what's my current scenario?
Knox: Want me to shoot you straight?
Cordell: Always.
Knox: A massive electoral loss.

(CORDELL LEANS FORWARD, PUFFS ON CIGAR)

Cordell: How?
Knox: Iverson is kicking our ass in ad buys...he already has that "Pride" ad on the airwaves...
Cordell: Yeah yeah that "I'm the f***ing President..and I love America" bullsh*t"
Knox: Sir...to be quite frank about it...the American people aren't buying into our message. The Iverson/Quinn administration has made a big issue of national security ever since the thwarted attack last year, and quite frankly...people like you...they admire your style...but unless the winds shift...we're gonna lose this thing.
Cordell: Jessica?
Norris: Yes sir?
Cordell: What's your take?
Norris: We need to press harder. We need massive ad buys...bigger rallies...more of them...we need to look stronger on defense.
Cordell: So what...what....do I need to go walk around on an aircraft carrier in a flight suit or jump into a tank with a dopey fuc*ing helmet on or something? COME ON GUYS! (Laughs and puffs on cigar) I'm the Democratic nominee for President of the United States...I just beat Greg Harris who was only bound to be President for the last ten fuc*ing years...and it's like I don't even exist...the media ignores me.

LONG PAUSE IN ROOM

Cordell: I have to go meet a staffer from the North Carolina office.

SCENE SHIFTS TO CORDELL LAYING IN BED NEXT TO 40-SOMETHING YEAR OLD WOMAN AS SHE LITES UP A CIGARETTE

Cordell: So honey...do you think we'll win North Carolina?
Woman: You bet, Mr. Governor.

END SCENE

[Reaganfan]

During my Christmas break from my Freshman year of High School in December 2003, I came up with a movie story plot. It followed the 2000-like close election of Governor Jack Iverson (in my mind, Mel Gibson) against Senator Chris Moon (in my mind, Nick Nolte). The Senator begins to have a vendetta against the new President-elect, that turns near-fatal.

This "Cordell for President" story is sort of a spin-off of that plot. I'm thinking of maybe starting that other story.

[Reaganfan]

SCENE OPENS AT CAMPAIGN PRESS BRIEFING, GREENSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA. GOVERNOR CORDELL IS FINISHING TAKING QUESTIONS

Reporter: Governor, the Democratic National Convention is July 5-9th, just a few weeks away. Have you given any thought on a running mate?
Cordell: (chuckles) Of course I've given it thought. I'm not gonna tell you who I am considering other than to say there are many fine potential candidates for the job.
Reporter: ONE NAME, PLEASE, GOVERNOR?
Cordell: Alright...alright...I think...um...Senator Harris...he was a worthy opponent...he's a contender. Anyways...that's all for me...I'm spent. Thank you all.

SCENE SHIFTS TO NEXT ROOM FOLLOWING PRESS CONFERENCE. GOVERNOR CORDELL GRABS A BOTTLED WATER OFF TABLE, STEVE KNOX LOOKS AT HIS BLACKBERRY.

Knox: Are you really considering Harris?
Cordell: Oh please, Steve. (CORDELL TAKES HUGE SWIG OF WATER) I pulled that one outta my ass.
Knox: Have you given it any thought at all?
Cordell: Governor Bob Newhart? Senator Freddy Kruger? Who the hell knows...I haven't really I guess. Steve...would you get together a long list that we can cut down to a short list?
Knox: I can have it by Wednesday.
Cordell: Awesome. (Takes another swig of water)

SCENE SHIFTS TO OUTDOOR BBQ WITH GOVERNOR CORDELL, NOW 11 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER ASHLEY, AND WIFE LESLIE SITTING AT A PICNIC BENCH. CORDELL WORKS THE GRILL.

Cordell: Burgers are almost ready, Les.
Leslie: I want a braut.
Cordell: I'm having both...and a hot dog...and some chips...and honey can you grab me a Coke?

(Ashley chuckles as she plays with the family black lab, Smokey)

Cordell: (as he bites hot dog with mouth full) What? What? What did I say?
Leslie: (chuckles) What would have happened if President William Howard Taft were elected today?
Cordell: I don't know, what?
Leslie: He wouldn't have been. (ASHLEY AND LESLIE LAUGH)
Cordell: What...you sayin' I'm a porker?
Leslie: I'm saying...get into shape, babe. You could be the most powerful man in the world in just over five months.
Cordell: In just over five months I'll be the "most powerful man in the world-ELECT".
Leslie: Babe...you're one in a million.
Cordell: So are you, darling.

SCENE SHIFTS TO GOVERNOR CORDELL GETTING DRESSED IN HIS OFFICE AFTER SLEEPING WITH HIS SECRETARY, VICTORIA NEIL.

Victoria: Hey baby?
Cordell: Yeah?
Victoria: I've already picked out the dress I'm gonna wear for our White House wedding.
Cordell: (rolls his eyes) Oh yeah, that's great...
Victoria: What's wrong?
Cordell: What's wrong is I am in the process of picking a f***ing running mate and trying to beat an incumbant jackass this November and the last thing I need to f***ing hear is "oh will you marry me at the White House".

VICTORIA LOOKS SAD AND SHOCKED.

Cordell: (SHOUTING) Jesus f***ing Christ, Victoria! Take a chill pill!

VICTORIA BEGINS CRYING AND CORDELL GETS ON HIS KNEES AND LEANS NEXT TO HER.

Cordell: Look baby....look...I'm sorry. I care about you. It's just...well...I'm married...and now that I'm running for President...I can't do anything risky...I mean it's risky enough meeting you every week to have sex. You know Iverson probably has every one of his f***ing guys out there trying to nail me on something. Don't be planning a "wedding" with me when I'm married with children and the Democratic Nominee for President.
Victoria: (SMUG LOOK) Well then maybe I'll go to the press and ruin your chances.

CORDELL SUDDENLY ANGERLY PUSHES VICTORIA BACK AGAINST THE DESK

Cordell: NOW YOU LISTEN TO ME YOU SELFISH BITCH...I CAN'T HAVE THIS FAIRY TALE PRINCESS BULLS**T WHEN I AM RISKING EVERYTHING JUST TO COME AND SEE YOU. I COULD BE THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES IN JUST A FEW MONTHS...AND YOU...YOU WANT TO TAKE ME DOWN JUST BECAUSE YOU WANNA MARRY ME? YOU LEAK ONE WORD TO THE PRESS AND I WILL BOOK YOU FOR A LONG STAY AT THE MOTEL DEEP SIX....YOU GOT THAT GIRL?
Victoria: I...
Cordell: What?
Victoria: I...I love you, John.
Cordell: (frustrated and underbreath) Oh Jesus Christ...
Victoria: I think of you everyday...I wanna be with you forever...
Cordell: Oh Jesus Christ...
Victoria: I wanna have a nice White House wedding...and...and be the First Lady and...I want us to be happy.
Cordell: OF ALL THE SECRETARY'S I COULD HAVE NAILED....I HAD TO F*** THE CRAZY BITCH!
Victoria: I wanna be a good mom for little Ashley....
Cordell: What? You gonna boil her rabbit?
Victoria: John...we can be together.
Cordell: You're a nut.
Victoria: I love you, John!

CORDELL LEAVES OFFICE.

END SCENE

SCENE OPENS WITH GOVERNOR CORDELL SLAMMING A NEWSPAPER ON HIS DESK THAT READS "CORDELL NEARING VEEP CHOICE". CORDELL AND KNOX STAND IN GOVERNOR'S OFFICE.

Cordell: The funny thing is...I'm not nearing my choice. What's my long list, Steve?
Knox: Well sir, we have-
Cordell: Wait...Steve...sit down...would you like a cigar?
Knox: No thanks, sir...I'm not a fan of big tabacco.
Cordell: (laughs) Don't tell the base...but I am.
Knox: (laughs)
Cordell: Okay, so who we got?
Knox: Let's start at the bottom and work our way up....Congressman Hal Nedler of Kentucky.
Cordell: Who the f*** is he?
Knox: Moving on...Frm. Secretary of State Louise Gentaro.
Cordell: Nah, nah...a Secretary of State who served under an unpopular one-term Democrat four years ago? I'm not going for anyone from the previous administrations...I'm going all fresh.
Knox: If fresh is the key...how about Senator Andrew Pershing of Maine?
Cordell: Are you serious?
Knox: Don't like the tax evasion?
Cordell: Next...
Knox: Governor Vince Slade of Michigan?
Cordell: HOLD THE PHONE! Vince Slade? Governor of Michigan?
Knox: That's the one...
Cordell: That guy is a bright star in the Democratic Party...I had the opportunity to meet him a few months back at the National Governor's Association meeting and man...he is articulate, young, dynamic...he electrifies every room he walks in. Any skeletons?
Knox: Nope...none that I could find. He's 46 years old...he has served six years as Governor of Michigan...before that he spent two years in the House....he has a centrist Democratic voting record in Congress...and he holds approval ratings in the all-important state of Michigan around 75%. He was re-elected two years ago with 61% of the vote. He's actually a pretty decent pick, in my opinion.
Cordell: Put him on the short list. Who else we got?
Knox: Congresswoman Helen Adams, Florida's favorite house member.
Cordell: Hmmm...I don't know what good a 71 year old DINO will do me...
Knox: Senator Rich Fielding of New Hampshire.
Cordell: There's a good choice.
Knox: Served two terms in the Senate, two in the House...55 years old and a nice family.
Cordell: Add him.
Knox: How about Nevada Governor Tom Fine?
Cordell: Met him once...really nice guy. Centrist too...pro-gun...he'd help the ticket alot. Infact...a Cordell/Fine ticket might be mighty fine, if I don't say so myself.
Knox: Fine has two terms as Nevada Governor under his belt, and he has approval ratings through the roof in that state. He's one reason why Iverson didn't win Nevada last time.
Cordell: Put Governor Fine on the list for sure...he's a talented guy.
Knox: The final big name....Senator Karl Mantrose of Minnesota.
Cordell: OH MAN!
Knox: 50 years old, two terms in the Senate, elected massively both times in the President's homestate...very popular...
Cordell: His record is liberal as hell...they'll kill me on that.
Knox: Knockin' off Iverson's homestate would be one hell of a thing, wouldn't it, sir?
Cordell: I could see puttin' Mantrose on there...the only thing is the guy can be a bit arrogant.
Knox: No offense sir...but so can you.
Cordell: (laughs) Yes...you're right about that. Put him down on the short list, too.
Knox: Got it.
Cordell: I'm out of here...I have to go hit the can.

END SCENE

[Reaganfan]

Lay off the sex scenes a little.

I'm extremely sorry for the verbal adult onslaught that this story has entrusted onto our forum, but I feel that the verbal text, while sometimes adult oriented, is critical to the flow of the plot of this story.

Any other opinions on this story so far? I'm really wondering if I should spin-off the "Iverson" story that gave me the idea for this.

[Reaganfan]

Lay off the sex scenes a little.

Uh...we're dealing with Mike Naso here.

Oh...I'm sorry, Phil. Let me add in this paragraph:

Newspaper headline reads "PA SENATOR IN HOT WATER OVER BEASTIALITY".

That better for you? It is a story...and I am insulted that people would make fun of me for writing it.

[Reaganfan]

Lay off the sex scenes a little.

Uh...we're dealing with Mike Naso here.

Oh...I'm sorry, Phil. Let me add in this paragraph:

Newspaper headline reads "PA SENATOR IN HOT WATER OVER BEASTIALITY".

That better for you? It is a story...and I am insulted that people would make fun of me for writing it.

I actually didn't make fun of you, dude... As someone with a degree in screenwriting (as well as film direction and acting), I was offering some honest critique work. Like I said, you've got to learn industry standard, and the easiest way is to download a program or to go on the internet and read screenplays which are formatted. It'll help you.

Also, as I said, the story is still rather spasmodic. They are short, and some of them would be cut completely in RL, such as the recent BBQ scene. You've got to focus on creating coherent characters and settings, and until you can at least do that, it's difficult for me to read. I like your enthusiasm for it, I like the effort, and there have been a couple good moments... Build on that, and what I told you, and it'll make for a more compelling story.

What do you feel have been the story's best moments?

[Reaganfan]

You know, it stretches belief that he's having that many different affairs.  If he was just carrying on with his secretary, fine, but Presidential candidates are trailed almost full time, and presumptive nominees have Secret Service protection.

Only the secretary, really. He had a one-night stand with that North Carolina staffer, and had a one-night stand with the chick in the beginning of the story.

Trust me...the story will have much deeper a plot once the main election gets underway.

[Reaganfan]

SCENE OPENS AT RALLY IN CLEVELAND, TENNESSEE, MID-JUNE, SUNNY AND HOT OUTSIDE. GOVERNOR CORDELL STANDS AT THE MICROPHONE, SLEEVES ROLLED UP, RED TIE LOOSENED. STEVE KNOX STANDS PATIENTLY ON THE SIDE OF THE STAGE, HOLDING A BLACKBERRY WHICH HE OCCASIONALLY LOOKS AT. A CROWD OF ABOUT 10,000 CHEER CORDELL ON.

Cordell: Ya know folks, it has been nearly 50 years now and Republicans still try to push forward their agenda...and you all know what it is. Cut taxes on the wealthy and HOPE that some sucess trickles it's way down...
Crowd: (BOOs)
Cordell: They call it "trickle-down economics"...and for a while it looked like we had finally gotten rid of it. But low and behold...here come Iverson and Quinn who decide "I don't wanna cut taxes for middle America...I wanna make the rich even RICHER!"
Crowd: (BOOs)
Cordell: Well it's high time for us to say NO THANKS, MR. PRESIDENT...WE'RE GONNA DO IT OUR WAY!

CROWD ERUPTS INTO CHEERS. STEVE KNOX GETS A MESSAGE ON HIS CELL PHONE THAT READS, "New National Poll shows Cordell and Iverson in dead heat." KNOX SMILES.

SCENE SHIFTS TO ROOM SET UP BEHIND STAGE, AIR CONDITIONING, WATER AND SNACKS SET UP. CORDELL, DRIPPING WITH SWEAT, GRABS A BOTTLE OF WATER. KNOX WALKS IN THE ROOM.

Cordell: Steve....Steve my boy! What's going on?
Knox: Great news, sir...new poll shows us tied nationally 45-45.
Cordell: HOT DAMN THAT IS GREAT!
Knox: I say if we hold this, gain on it through the running mate announcements and the convention...we'll go into the fall really strong.
Cordell: But remember, Steve...the Republican Convention is August 30th till September 3rd...that means Iverson could sweep away our gains by mid-September.
Knox: Not if we build an insurmountable lead, sir.

CORDELL AND KNOX EYE EACHOTHER.

Cordell: Well then let's get on the ball, Steve my man!
Knox: YES SIR!

END SCENE

SHIFT TO CAMPAIGN HEADQUARTERS CONFERENCE ROOM, ATLANTA, GEORGIA CAMPAIGN OFFICE. CORDELL, KNOX, JESSICA NORRIS AND OTHER STAFFERS SIT AROUND A LONG TABLE. A POSSIBLE ELECTORAL MAP FROM THE POLLS HANGS ON THE WALL.

Cordell: Okay folks, I have a rally here in Atlanta in three hours, so let's get down to business. Steve?
Knox: Running mate?
Cordell: I've narrowed it down to four. Senator Mantrose, Governor Fine, Governor Slade, and one that I looked into a bit but isn't really talked about...Governor Les Dunham of Iowa.
Knox: Les Dunham?
Cordell: Yep. The guy is 60 years old but looks ten years younger, he has a lovely wife Natalie and three daughters, he served a term in the Iowa State Senate, then a term in the House, then two terms in the House of Representatives, then was elected Governor and was re-elected massively two years ago. He has a centrist record, and quite frankly...I believe that with him on the ticket we can really nail down the Midwest.
Norris: Sir?
Cordell: Yes, Jessica?
Norris: Wouldn't you rather have someone more well-known, like Senator Harris or Mantrose?
Cordell: No way on Harris...Mantrose I can see...but Harris is out of the question. The guy will bring all that New England baggage...and quite frankly I don't even think I want any Senators on the ticket.
Knox: Why not, sir?
Cordell: Because we need to change Washington by being outsiders. I know...I know...every President says that he was an outsider-
Knox: ...but it doesn't work.
Cordell: (chuckles) It's horses*it.
Knox: (LAUGHS)
Cordell: The point is...if I put a Senator or a Congressman on the ticket...I bring insider stuff into the new administration and I don't want that.
Knox: So Governors...Dunham, Slade and Fine?
Cordell: Keep Mantrose on the list...but yeah...it's pretty much those four.
Norris: And sir, when should we have a decision?
Cordell: I say...a week before the Convention.
Knox: Got it.

KNOX GETS UP AND LEAVES, JESSICA NORRIS AND CORDELL REMAIN

Norris: I have to say, Governor Cordell, I am a bit surprised that you don't want to strengthen your foreign policy credentials by putting a Senator on the ticket.
Cordell: Well, Jessica, I just feel that it adds too much baggage. The American people have a short fuse when it comes to Washington Insiders and even if it's only the Vice Presidency...once that fuse is lit...the whole administration becomes an insider's deal. You know what I mean?
Norris: I guess so.
Cordell: We need to make everything fresh, efficent and workable.



END SCENE

OPEN SCENE IN WHITE HOUSE. PRESIDENT IVERSON, VICE PRESIDENT QUINN, AND REPUBLICAN SENATE MAJORITY LEADER TOM REMINGTON OF OHIO STAND AROUND THE OVAL OFFICE COUCHES. PRESIDENT IVERSON HOLDS A FOLDER IN THE AIR.

Iverson: Our internal polling is collapsing.
Quinn: What do you mean, Mr. President?
Iverson: I mean...we're falling everywhere. We're trailing in Ohio, we're trailing in Michigan, we're tied in Florida...it's a mess.
Remington: Mr. President...I can damn well assure you that our Congressional and Senatorial candidates are strong as ever.
Iverson: I believe you on that, Senator...but Hank and I need to stay in four more years...otherwise every conservative proposal this administration has put into effect will be set back.
Quinn: Mr. President, we need to fight more aggressively. I'll go to multipule campaign events each day if I have to...
Iverson: I guess I COULD campaign a bit harder...Bill, I guess...wait...where the hell is Bill?
Remington: He isn't here, sir.
Iverson: See...how the hell can I run a campaign when my own campaign advisor isn't even here. (PRESIDENT IVERSON PRESSES PHONE BUTTON) Susan?
Susan (Through Phone): Yes, Mr. President?
Iverson: Get Bill Thomas in here as soon as possible.
Susan (Through Phone): Yes, Mr. President.
Iverson: (Looks at Quinn and Remington) Don't worry guys...I'll fight hard.
Quinn: YOU are the one that doesn't have to worry, Mr. President. I'm willing to bet that we will not only win, but I think it's gonna be a landslide in the end.
Remington: I agree, Mr. President.
Iverson: Ah, well, I guess we'll see. Senator, Mr. Vice President, it was nice seeing you guys and it's good to hear the Senate is moving smoothly on our legislation.
Remington: Good day, Mr. President.
Quinn: Take care, Mr. President.

SENATOR REMINGTON AND VICE PRESIDENT QUINN LEAVE, PRESIDENT IVERSON STANDS DEEP IN THOUGHT IN THE OVAL OFFICE.



END SCENE

[Reaganfan]

What's with the map?

What do you mean?

[Reaganfan]

What's with the map?

What do you mean?

Don't play dumb. It's the picture. You know what I mean.

If you think that picture of President Iverson is your face, you are wrong. I wanted to capture a middle-aged guy, so I used a random google image:
http://stage15.com/images/neil2.jpg

[Reaganfan]

What's with the map?

It is a rough image of the electoral map from Iverson's election four years earlier.

[Reaganfan]

What's with the map?

It is a rough image of the electoral map from Iverson's election four years earlier.

Okay. I thought it was a map of current polling, but that didn't make sense.

Nah, sometimes I put a storyboard image with the plot. For that image it's "Cordell and Jessica Norris sitting around a conference table, on wall hangs map from the election four years earlier".

I'll do that occasionally.

[Reaganfan]

What's with the map?

It is a rough image of the electoral map from Iverson's election four years earlier.

Okay. I thought it was a map of current polling, but that didn't make sense.

Nah, sometimes I put a storyboard image with the plot. For that image it's "Cordell and Jessica Norris sitting around a conference table, on wall hangs map from the election four years earlier".

I'll do that occasionally.

Interesting. What'd you make that with?

Ah, just a PhotoImpression.

[Reaganfan]

SCENE OPENS IN GOVERNOR CORDELL'S OFFICE, STEVE KNOX SITS THERE GOING OVER PAPERS.

Cordell: Ya know, Steve...
Knox: Yes sir?
Cordell: What got you involved?
Knox: Involved?
Cordell: In the process...in the system...in politics.
Knox: (chuckles) When I was three, my mother and father were arguing about Obama versus McCain.
Cordell: (lights up a cigar and laughs)
Knox: Ever since then, I've followed the elections and been deeply interested in it. Sir...if I may ask...what got you interested in politics?

CORDELL PUFFS ON HIS CIGAR, LEANS BACK IN THE CHAIR

Cordell: When I was a little boy, I used to have nightmares about nuclear war. I used to dream about Soviet troops driving down my street and capturing all my friends from school...throwing them into concentration camps. I guess I watched "Red Dawn" a little too much.
Knox: (LAUGHS)
Cordell: I had a dream once that I was fishin' up at Hawkback Lake, just outside of my hometown of Binger. I was reelin' in my fishin' pole when a blinding white flash appeared in the distance. My daddy and I ran to the car and turned on the radio. All you could hear was that tone of the old Emergency Broadcast System and then I heard Reagan's voice break in saying that our country was under attack. Just then, the shockwave hit. I woke up crying...pouring sweat...terrified of nuclear war. Everytime the Emergency Broadcast System went off for a test I'd piss myself. I followed the campaign...they said Reagan wanted to put nuclear weapons in Space...it just all seemed so scary. Needless to say, I became a six-year old advocate for arms negotiation and a nuclear freeze.
Knox: (chuckles)
Cordell: But yeah...that's what got me interested in politics and current events.
Knox: I remember growing up with the attacks, the bombings, the war. My parents always fought about Bush's policies and Obama's policies. Things were so difficult to understand at that young age...but I wanted to understand them so badly. But America has always come so far...I mean...in my lifetime we've seen the first black President, the first woman President, the first Indian American President...and I stop and think...just 20 years before I was born that would seem impossible.
Cordell: I can understand, Steve.
Knox: That's why I still can't believe I am where I am today...best friends with the Governor of Oklahoma who just might be the next President of the United States.
Cordell: And let me tell ya, Steve...when I'm President...you're coming with me to Washington.
Knox: I...I just can't believe that you would pick me....
Cordell: Oh quit beatin' that drum, Steve. You are a smart, young, able guy who I know, and trust...you're my friend. You're my go-to guy and you have proven yourself over the last two and half months....you've proven yourself and become my friend more than people I have known for 20 years.
Knox: That means quite alot, sir.
Cordell: Now...down to business.
Knox: Several new polls out, sir. We're trailing Iverson in Missouri, Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Oregon.
Cordell: OREGON? How the hell did that slip away?
Knox: Don't know sir, but we're leading Iverson in Florida, New Hampshire, Michigan and Wisconsin.
Cordell: That's good...that's good...we need to take back Florida, New Hampshire and Wisconsin if we want any chance at this thing...
Knox: Jessica and I are calling our campaign offices in all three states to make sure they have a good ground game set up.
Cordell: Excellent.

SCENE ENDS

NEWS REPORT OPENS

Reporter: With just two weeks left to go before the Democratic National Convention in Houston, Texas, the presumptive Democratic Nominee Governor John Cordell wasted no time attacking President Iverson on the campaign trail.
Cordell: (on stump) WE ARE NO LONGER GOING TO TOLERATE A PRESIDENT WHO CARES MORE ABOUT THE WEALTHY THAN THE WORKERS!
Reporter: Trailing in some national polls, Cordell is looking for a boost with a running mate selection, expected to come shortly before the convention.
Cordell: (in Press Conference) I am overlooking potential contenders, and I will select a running mate who I know will help me clean up the act in Washington and bring economic growth back to this nation.
Reporter: Possible contenders for the VP slot include: New Jersey Senator and former Presidential Contender Greg Harris, Michigan Governor Vince Slade, and Nevada Governor Tom Fine. Fine recently endorsed Governor Cordell at a rally in Reno last week, and is considered a top contender.

TELEVISION TURNS OFF, CORDELL AND WIFE LESLIE LAY IN BED

Cordell: It's a tough choice, you know...
Leslie: Running mate?
Cordell: Oh yeah. Vince Slade...Tom Fine...Les Dunham...Karl Mantrose...all good guys. But, what I have to keep reminding myself...I have to work with these guys in the White House for four to eight years. I have to personally like them...trust them...have confidence.
Leslie: Who do you like the best?
Cordell: Mantrose is an ass, and quite frankly I ain't picking him.
Leslie: (laughs)
Cordell: Tom Fine has to lose that mustache if he wants any shot at it....
Leslie: (laughs) Oh John...
Cordell: I'm serious...he looks like a clone of Tom Dewey.
Leslie: Les Dunham is a handsome guy for his age. Vince Slade is too.
Cordell: Yeah, I like both those guys...they are great.
Leslie: I'm sure whoever you pick will be just fine, dear.
Cordell: BUT I HAVEN'T DECIDED ON GOVERNOR FINE, YET!
Leslie: (laughs) Goodnight, dear.

END SCENE

[Reaganfan]

SCENE OPENS, GOVERNOR CORDELL'S OFFICE. GOVERNOR CORDELL SITS AT DESK GOING OVER PAPERS. THE DOOR OPENS, AND HIS SECRETARY VICTORIA NEIL WALKS IN.

Victoria: You wanted to see me?
Cordell: Sit down, Victoria.

VICTORIA SITS DOWN, CORDELL STANDS UP AND LIGHTS A CIGAR.

Cordell: With this election just around the corner, I'm afraid...(SIGHS)...I'm afraid we have to go our separate ways.
Victoria: You mean...like...when you're campaigning we could talk on the phone and then meet occasionally with-
Cordell: NO...Victoria, no. I mean...I can't see you...personally...on a personal level...ever again.
Victoria: I- I don't understand.
Cordell: Victoria, look here. When I first met you, I was young and foolish. I was just beginning to run for Governor and I was under alot of stress...pressure...my wife and I weren't getting along like we used to...I had a little kid at home...you were a 36 year old staffer and I took a chance and...
Victoria: ...and you said you would marry me.
Cordell: Victoria, I never said that.
Victoria: You did so!
Cordell: When?
Victoria: The night before you got re-elected. You and I made love here in the office and you said you would marry me.
Cordell: Victoria...I don't remember that at all...I- I may have been drunk...I don't remember saying that.
Victoria: Well...you did. For two years I have been waiting for you to dump that fuc*ing bitch and marry me.
Cordell: Victoria...whatever we said in the past is just that. It's past. It's history. We're finished as a couple and the only time you and I can see eachother is when you are my secretary and I am your boss.
Victoria: (begins crying) Well than F*** you, SIR.

VICTORIA RUNS OUT OF OFFICE. CORDELL SIGHS AND SITS BACK IN CHAIR AND RECLINES.

END SCENE

SCENE OPENS OF GOVERNOR CORDELL, HAVING FALLEN ASLEEP IN HIS CHAIR, WAKING UP THE NEXT MORNING TO A RINGING OFFICE PHONE.

CORDELL, STILL HALF-ASLEEP, ANSWERS THE PHONE.

Cordell: Ha--Hello?
Knox: (ON PHONE) Governor...what the hell is going on?
Cordell: Steve my boy, Steve...what's up?
Knox: Turn on the news.

CORDELL TURNS ON CABLE NEWS ON HIS OFFICE TELEVISION.

Reporter: ...and again it's 8:14am here in New York City and this morning's top story, a massive bombshell on the presumptive Democratic Nominee Governor John Cordell. Apparently, last night a woman named Victoria Neil ran into the local Oklahoma City affiliate station and claims that she and Governor Cordell have been having an affair for the past eight years. Now again, details surrounding this story are sketchy, but needless to say coming just days before the selection of a running mate and the Democratic National Convention...this cannot be good news for the Cordell campaign.

Cordell: (ON PHONE) Steve...get to the office ASAP!
Knox: I'm on my way.

SCENE SHIFTS TO AN HOUR LATER, KNOX AND CORDELL IN THE GOVERNOR'S OFFICE. STEVE KNOX AND GOVERNOR CORDELL STAND IN THE OFFICE QUIETLY SIPPING COFFEE.

Knox: John...

CORDELL NOTICES THIS IS THE FIRST TIME KNOX HASN'T CALLED CORDELL "GOVERNOR" OR "SIR".

Cordell: Yes, Steve?
Knox: Did you have an affair with her?
Cordell: (looking down) Yes, Steve, I did.
Knox: (sighs) Dammit...
Cordell: I was stressed...it was eight years ago...Leslie and I weren't getting along...and she was flirtly so I fuc*ed her. I didn't think it would turn into some kind of big fuc*ing media event.
Knox: Yeah well...you obviously didn't expect to run for President, did you?
Cordell: No...no I didn't.
Knox: She claims you were supposed to get married.
Cordell: YEAH...GET THIS. Two years ago, I'm in my office, I'm feeling confident about re-election, so I get real flirtly with her. Next thing ya know, we get drunk and mess around. She claims when I was drunk I told her I would marry her.
Knox: Governor, I need to know everything. Is she the only one?
Cordell: (pause) The only serious one.
Knox: What the hell does that mean!?!
Cordell: IT MEANS that I f***ed a North Carolina staffer a few months ago and that cleaning chick who worked at the Mansion....HAPPY?
Knox: Is that all?
Cordell: I swear to you, that's all.
Knox: Okay...look...you want me to shoot ya straight, right?
Cordell: Right.
Knox: You may have just lost your marriage.
Cordell: I am fully aware of that.
Knox: You may have just lost your job.
Cordell: I understand.
Knox: And you may have just lost the Presidency.

LONG PERIOD OF SILENCE BETWEEN CORDELL AND KNOX.

Cordell: I wanna talk to the press.
Knox: When?
Cordell: NOW.
Knox: JOHN! WAIT!

CORDELL WALKS OUT THE DOOR.

SCENE SHIFTS TO PRESS CONFERENCE WITH CORDELL AND REPORTERS.

Cordell: I am here to clarify some recent events that have taken place regarding myself and my secretary, Miss Victoria Neil. About eight years ago, I had an affair with Miss Neil. We continued to see eachother as recently as this past Spring. I also had an affair with two other women, whose identities will remain anonymous, within this past year. I understand how terrible this is, for me, for my family and for my supporters. The allegations of an affair with Miss Neil are true. The allegations of a potential marriage between myself and Miss Neil are not. This is, the one and only time I will ever speak on this matter. I ask that the press give myself, Miss Neil, and our families the respect of privacy, and I hope to put this behind us all.
Reporter: GOVERNOR, WILL YOU STILL BE SEEKING THE PRESIDENCY?
Cordell: My goodness, OF COURSE! Just because I made a serious mistake in my personal life, you expect me to end my campaign to rebuild this nation's faltering economy? To fix our schools and reform education for America's children? To stop this Iverson/Quinn policy of taxing the middle class and giving relief to the rich in America?  You expect me to end all that? HOGWASH.

GOVERNOR CORDELL EXITS STAGE WITH REPORTERS SCREAMING QUESTIONS. HE WALKS BEHIND STAGE AND GOES UP TO STEVE KNOX.

Cordell: How did I do?
Knox: The best you possibly could.
Cordell: Yes...now I....I have to go home and...and talk to Leslie.

CORDELL, DEPRESSED, WALKS AWAY.

Knox: GOVERNOR?
Cordell: Yeah, Steve?
Knox: (BRIEF PAUSE)...I still believe in you.

CORDELL SMILES AND WALKS AWAY.

END SCENE

OPEN SCENE, CORDELL CABIN, GOVERNOR CORDELL WALKS IN, THE HOUSE IS QUIET. HE TURNS THE CORNER AND GETS A MASSIVE SMACK ACROSS HIS FACE FROM LESLIE.

Cordell: LESLIE!
Leslie: (CRYING AND SCREAMING)  YOU, YOU SON OF A BITCH! YOU SON OF A BITCH!
Cordell: BABY...BABY...I DIDN'T WANT TO...IT JUST HAPPENED...
Leslie: Oh yeah...it just happened. You just happened to bang your slutty secretary, right John!
Cordell: Honey...she means NOTHING TO ME. ABSOULTELY NOTHING AT ALL. I COULD CARE LESS. YOU ARE MY WIFE, LESLIE...YOU...NOT HER!
Leslie: (CRYING)

CORDELL AND LESLIE KISS, AND HUG.

END SCENE

SCENE OPENS IN WHITE HOUSE, PRESIDENT JACK IVERSON SITS WITH FEET KICKED UP, EATING POPCORN AND DRINKING A COKE WATCHING AN EPISODE OF "M*A*S*H". WIFE JEANNE SITS NEXT TO HIM.

Jeanne: Jack, what are you feeling?
Iverson: Honestly, I feel like watching Hawkeye and Klinger.
Jeanne: Honey, I'm serious.
Iverson: Look, Jeanne...I don't like seeing a man's personal life come under scrutiny. I know that better than anyone, you know that, Jeanne.
Jeanne: Of course.
Iverson: That being said...politically...for myself and Hank...this is good news. Look, I know that the American people have a short memory...and I know what happened two years ago will be forgotten. But Jeanne, when I saw the families of those people on the trains...I made a vow...and when I get those briefings...I know the threat that exists...and I trust myself more than John Cordell.
Jeanne: I know baby. I know, Jack.
Iverson: I'm gonna comment on the Cordell scandal tomorrow.
Jeanne: Are you sure you wanna do that?
Iverson: Yes, I'm sure...and plus...I have to.

FIRST LADY JEANNE IVERSON KISSES THE PRESIDENT AND CUDDLES WITH HIM, AND THEY BOTH RETURN TO WATCHING "M*A*S*H".

END SCENE

SCENE OPENS, SAME NIGHT, NEW JERSEY SENATOR GREG HARRIS STANDS IN KITCHEN, LOOKING AT TELEVISION NEWS REPORT ON SCANDAL IN HIS LIVING ROOM THROUGH THE DOORWAY. HIS WIFE KAREN HARRIS CUTS VEGETABLES FOR DINNER.

Harris: That bastard blackmailed his way to his nomination.
Karen: You already told me.
Harris: Look honey, you know we had marital problems in the past...but that was behind us...and that son of a bitch dug it up just to keep me from that nomination.
Karen: He isn't nominated yet, Greg.
Harris: Yeah...I know.
Karen: Why not jump back into the race?
Harris: Are you insane?
Karen: At this point...his poll numbers are down the tube and he is riddled with scandal.
Harris: (deep in thought) I can't believe what I'm about to say...but Karen...you're right. That son of a bitch kicked me outta this race, and now he has no chance. I can reboot my campaign, all my supporters, disaffected Cordell supporters...delegates...I can do it...
Karen: Will you?
Harris: (shakes his head) Right now what I need is some dinner! (laughs)

END SCENE

[Reaganfan]

SCENE OPENS FOUR DAYS AFTER SCANDAL BREAKS, CONFERENCE ROOM AT NASHVILLE CAMPAIGN HEADQUARTERS. CORDELL AND KNOX SIT AT THE TABLE.

Knox: Governor, we have daily national and state tracking polls.
Cordell: Of course.

KNOX PUTS UP ELECTORAL MAP, MANY STATES IN RED FOR IVERSON, MANY IN BLUE FOR CORDELL, AND SOME IN GRAY FOR TOSS-UP.

Knox: This was the electoral map four days ago.
Cordell: Not bad...
Knox: This is the electoral map today.

MAP SHIFTS TO ALMOST ALL RED FOR IVERSON, WITH SEVERAL STATES IN GRAY AND VERY FEW IN BLUE FOR CORDELL

Knox: Sir, that's a landslide electoral defeat.
Cordell: (angry) Well what the hell do we do to change it?
Knox: The running mate, sir. Have you decided?
Cordell: I'm down to three...all Governors. Fine of Nevada, Slade of Michigan and Dunham of Iowa. I'm gonna choose this weekend. What are each of their advantages electorally?
Knox: Well, picking Dunham will help solidify Iowa, possibly pull back Minnesota and Wisconsin, solidify Michigan, maybe Ohio and Missouri...
Cordell: What about Slade?
Knox: Pretty much the same. Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin.
Cordell: I've been leaning towards Fine.
Knox: Governor Fine brings in the Southwest...infact...we're trailing in Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, and Arizona...all states Moon was very strong in four years ago.
Cordell: Does internal polling show that?
Knox: Big time. A Cordell/Fine ticket brings in the Southwest and cancels out any gains Iverson makes in the Pacific Northwest.
Cordell: I see.
Knox: Sir...
Cordell: Yeah, Steve?
Knox: Clinton got over his past. You will too.
Cordell: (brief pause and chuckle) Yeah...Yeah...I know. It just...wasn't exactly what I had planned, you know?
Knox: I understand.
Cordell: Look, I want posters...buttons...you name it... made up of three running mates: Fine, Slade and Dunham.
Knox: Got it.
Cordell: Thanks, Steve. I really appreciate all the hard work you do.
Knox: Sure thing, John.

END SCENE

OPEN NEWSREPORT

Reporter: Governor John Cordell is hard on the campaign trail following last week's bombshell story of an affair with a longtime secretary. Cordell has only publically commented on the affair once, and has since been hotly contesting the electoral playing field with President Iverson. The President, running well ahead of Cordell in the polls, wasted no time attacking his opponents lack of national security credentials, but refused to bring up the affair on the stump. However, the President did make this remark two days ago at a press conference.
Iverson: Look, whatever Governor Cordell has done in his personal life is just that...his personal life. This campaign will be about the issues.
Reporter: But the aides say the President is "well aware" of the political significance of the scandal, breaking just days before Cordell's running mate announcement and the Democratic National Convention. Also adding fuel to the fire, New Jersey Senator and Former Presidential Candidate Greg Harris has stated that if his supporters rally a "sufficent number of delegates" at the Democratic National Convention next week, he will be a contender for the nomination once again. Senator Harris dropped out of the race back this past April.
Harris: If the leaders of our party decide they want to take a second look at me...I'm all for it.

TELEVISION SHUTS OFF. GOVERNOR CORDELL STANDS IN OFFICE WITH STEVE KNOX AND JESSICA NORRIS.

Norris: Governor...this is bad.
Cordell: Nah...I'm not even phased.
Knox: How can you not be?
Cordell: Because this guy is a f***ing joke, you guys. He says if he can get a sufficent amount of delegates...this isn't a century ago...this isn't the old days of F.D.R. and smoke filled rooms...this is simple politics. I won the neccesary amount of delegates to be nominated...they are strongly committed....and I'm about to choose a running mate that will solidify the party behind me and boost me back up in the polls and no Greg Harris or Jack Iverson is gonna get in my f***ing way!
Knox: When will you decide on the veep, John?
Cordell: I'm calling them in the morning.
Knox: Alright. Look, I think you should relax and take a breather. Jessica and I are gonna go have dinner, I think you should go home, relax, and make your decision tomorrow.
Cordell: (brief pause) ...perhaps you're right. I'll go home and have dinner with Leslie and Ashley...they too have a stressful week ahead.
Norris: See you tomorrow, Gov.
Knox: Night, John.
Cordell: See you guys.

END SCENE

SCENE SHIFTS TO NEXT MORNING, 6:00AM, CORDELL RECLINES IN CHAIR, SETS CIGAR IN ASHTRAY, PULLS OUT HIS CELL PHONE AND MAKES THE CALL.

Cordell: (ON PHONE) GOVERNOR! Good morning, sir, it's John Cordell. Yes, it's a pleasure to speak with you. I have a big question for ya...

END SCENE