"Vendetta-elect" - Political Story (COMMENTS WELCOME)

[Reaganfan]

Well, I decided to continue writing these stories that I've had in my head for a while. This one is a prequel to "Cordell for President" and something I've had the plot idea for since 2003. Hope y'all enjoy it and be sure to give thoughts, comments and opinions.



OPEN PATRIOTIC MUSIC, ELECTION NIGHT OPEN FROM CABLE NEWS NETWORK.

Reporter: It has been one of the most bitterly contested races for the Presidency of the United States but tonight, the voters get to decide. Polls continue to show an unsteady race between the Democratic Nominee, Senator Chris Moon of Pennsylvania and the Republican Nominee, Governor Jack Iverson of Minnesota. Through this campaign, we have seen shock, scandal, and many different allegations. We have seen two starkly different Vice Presidential Nominees. The hot-heated young liberal Congressman and House Minority Whip Paul Sanderson of Colorado for the Democrats, and current Secretary of State Hank Quinn of Utah, a popular and older conservative voice. Tonight, after a brutal campaign for both men, America will have chosen one of them to become the 48th President of the United States.

OPEN SCENE - MOON HEADQUARTERS - PHILADELPHIA, PA. SENATOR CHRIS MOON, 53 YEARS OLD, DARK BUT GRAYING HAIR, LARGE GLASSES, SITS WITH HIS CHILDREN, 23 YEAR DAUGHTER KENDRA, BLONDE AND 21 YEAR OLD SON TOM, SHORT DARK HAIR. THEY SIT IN A LIVING ROOM AT AT HOTEL ABOVE THE RALLY SITE WATCHING ELECTION RETURNS.

Moon: You know, Kendra... tomorrow will be a big day for you.
Kendra: Why is that, daddy?
Moon: By tomorrow, you're gonna be the most eligible bachelorette in the United States!
Kendra: (laughs) Oh daddy.
Tom: What about me, pop?
Moon: You...you're gonna be the horniest bachelor in all of the United States, my boy! (laughs)
Tom: ALL RIGHT! (laughs and high-fives dad)
Kendra: Shut up you guys! The polls are closing!
Tom: THEY WILL BE! (laughs)

ELECTION ALERT: WE CAN NOW PROJECT THAT GOVERNOR JACK IVERSON WILL WIN THE STATES OF INDIANA AND KENTUCKY, AND THAT SENATOR CHRIS MOON WILL CARRY THE STATE OF VERMONT. NO HUGE SHOCKS ON THE ELECTORAL BOARD YET.

Kendra: Aw man, Dad...I thought you were gonna win Indiana!
Moon: Come on, Kendra...Indiana hasn't voted for a Democrat in 20 years!
Tom: Are you nervous?
Moon: Why would I be nervous? I've been the defacto next President for the past six years! (chuckles)
Tom: Yeah, but it was a nasty campaign, dad.
Moon: Yeah, but I'm pretty far ahead nationally.
Tom: But Iverson has been gaining...
Moon: GOD YOU'RE LIKE A WOMAN, TOM.
Tom: (laughs)
Moon: I'll be right back you guys, excuse me.

MOON WALKS INTO HOTEL ROOM BATHROOM, AND SHUTS THE DOOR. HE TAKES OUT HIS WALLET, AND LOOKS AT A PICTURE OF A WOMAN INSIDE OF IT. HE FOCUSES ON THE PICTURE FOR A MINUTE.

Moon: (to himself) I wish you were here.

END SCENE

SCENE OPENS IN HIGH RISE HOTEL ROOM IN ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA ABOVE WHERE VICTORY RALLY IS PLANNED. GOVERNOR JACK IVERSON, 47 YEARS OLD, DARK BROWN HAIR, SITS WITH WIFE JEANNE AND 13-YEAR OLD DAUGHTER RACHEL. HIS CAMPAIGN CHAIRMAN BILL THOMAS STANDS NEXT TO HIM WATCHING RETURNS.

Current National Popular Vote - 2% reporting

Moon: 1,002,265
Iverson: 1,001,047

Thomas: Well, Governor...remain confident. Atleast the polls narrowed in the last 72 hours.
Iverson: Yeah, that gives me some cause for optimism. Let's listen to some pundits.

IVERSON TURNS UP FLATSCREEN TV ON WALL.

Pundit #1: Looking at the exit polling and the polling in the last 72 hrs, Governor Iverson has closed a little bit but the latest nationals still have him down by six to nine points give or take.
Host: Is it possible for him to win?
Pundit #2: At this point, I don't see how he can. Moon has Pennsylvania locked up, he's ahead in Ohio, he's tied in Florida, and leading in Colorado and New Mexico. At this point...I have to guess that the Iverson campaign is more realistic than confident and they know it's over.

THOMAS MUTES TELEVISION

Iverson: Why did you mute it, Bill?
Thomas: Governor, now is not the time to be put down by political pundits on a cable news network...now is the time to relax with your family and know that no matter what happens tonight, you turned an all-but unwinnable election into a fiesty campaign, and that's all that matters, Jack.
Iverson: I suppose you're right. I just get these feelings sometimes...
Thomas: Pour a drink, Governor.
Iverson: I haven't had a drink in 20 years.
Thomas: Ah, yes...I forgot. Well, have a Coke.
Iverson: (chuckles) Thanks, Bill.

IVERSON WALKS OVER TO DAUGHTER RACHEL.

Iverson: So...you're gonna be turning 14 next month.
Rachel: Yep! I can't wait!
Iverson: You gonna want a party?
Rachel: Yes! Tons of people...cake...a huge cake!!
Iverson: What do you want on it, Rachel?
Rachel: The Presidential Seal.

IVERSON SMILES AND HUGS DAUGHTER. HE GLANCES AT ELECTORAL MAP.

MOON: 99
IVERSON: 75

END SCENE

[Reaganfan]

NEWSREPORT OPENS - ELECTION NIGHT - 9PM ANNOUNCEMENT

Reporter: WE ARE NOW ABOUT TO PROJECT THAT WEST VIRGINIA, VIRGINIA, NORTH CAROLINA AND ARKANSAS WILL ALL GO FOR JACK IVERSON AS WELL AS HIS HOMESTATE OF MINNESOTA. CHRIS MOON WILL BE WINNING COLORADO, NEW MEXICO, AND NEW YORK. AT THIS TIME, WE HAVE A LEAD FOR IVERSON IN THE ELECTORAL VOTE COUNT...BUT THERE ARE STILL MANY, MANY MORE STATES TO BE CALLED. MOON WATCHES NEWSREPORT, TURNS TO CAMPAIGN CHAIRMAN GEORGE MALVOX, 50's, DARK/GRAY HAIR.

Moon: It's 187-148 Iverson, George.
Malvox: I wouldn't worry, sir. Ohio and Florida haven't been called, and neither has California. Once they're called, it's sealed for us.
Moon: Minnesota was called for Iverson...how are Wisconsin and Michigan looking?
Malvox: I'm guessing you'll win both of them. By the time 11pm rolls around...you should be close to that magic number.
Moon: New Hampshire hasn't been called yet, George.
Malvox: Hmm...it should be soon. Ah...I see what it is....not enough precincts yet. Don't sweat it, Senator.
Moon: It's difficult. I try not to be over-confident.

END SCENE

NEWSREPORT OPEN - 11PM EST - ELECTION ALERT

Reporter: As of the 11 o'clock hour, we still do not have a new President. We have projected the states of Iowa, and New Mexico for Senator Moon, and we have called Missouri and Minnesota for Governor Iverson. At this time, two western states: Colorado and Nevada, are too close to call. In the midwest, Wisconsin and Ohio, both heavily contested, are too close to call. New Hampshire...still too close. Also, the state of Florida, with 88% of precincts reporting, a narrow lead for Moon but we are not yet ready to make a projection.

IVERSON WATCHES THE RESULTS. HE TURNS TO BILL THOMAS.

Iverson: Hey Bill...what's it looking like in Ohio?
Thomas: Moon has an extremely narrow lead...about 2,000 votes. Same in Florida.
Iverson: If only we could pull those two, we win.
Thomas: Well, at 1am they will call Alaska for us, and Hawaii for Moon...Moon just need to combine Ohio and Wisconsin or Florida and Wisconsin to get over the top. It would be fantastic if we could score a Western state, Colorado or Nevada.
Iverson: They already called New Mexico for Moon. Same for Iowa and Michigan. I really tried hard for Michigan.
Thomas: Just remain confident, sir.

SCENE SWITCHES BACK TO NEWSREPORT

Reporter: We're now able to project two states...the state of New Hampshire will go to Senator Moon...and he's a biggie...the state of Florida will go to Governor Iverson. With 96% reporting, we can project that when all is said and done, Iverson will win Florida.

Iverson: A little hope, huh Bill? (chuckles)
Thomas: (laughs) Always a chance, Governor.

END SCENE

SCENE OPENS AT 12:55AM, AT THE HOTEL WHERE SENATOR MOON IS SITTING WATCHING THE NEWS. A NEW PROJECTION COMES ACROSS THE SCREEN. "MOON WINS COLORADO". HE TURNS UP THE VOLUME.

REPORT: ...again, the state of Colorado is now going to be called for Senator Chris Moon, and we're also able to project yet another Western state for Senator Moon, Nevada will go to the Moon/Sanderson ticket. Of course, Congressman Sanderson is from Colorado, so he probably made some impact on voters in the West.

CAMPAIGN CHAIRMAN GEORGE MALVOX SITS NEXT TO SENATOR MOON.

Malvox: Sanderson really helped us in the west, Senator.
Moon: Hell yes...I knew he would.
Malvox: 254 Moon, 247 Iverson. Could it get any closer?
Moon: Nope. It can't, George.

MOON LAUGHS NERVOUSLY. HE PULLS A FOLDED UP PAPER OUT OF HIS SHIRT POCKET. IT'S A VICTORY SPEECH. HE PULLS ANOTHER FOLDED PIECE OF PAPER OUT OF HIS PANTS POCKET. IT'S A CONCESSION SPEECH.

Moon: I wonder which one I'll need. (laughs)

ELECTION ALERT: IT'S 1AM ON THE EAST COAST AND WE CAN NOW PROJECT THE STATE OF ALASKA FOR GOVERNOR IVERSON AND THE STATE OF HAWAII FOR SENATOR MOON.

Moon: Let's listen to some pundits.

MOON TURNS UP TELEVISION

Pundit #1: Right now, Moon and Iverson must be sweatin' bullets. Iverson won big in his homestate of Minnesota, Moon in his homestate of Pennsylvania. Moon has carried most of the west pretty well...Sanderson's homestate of Colorado, California, Oregon, Washington, Nevada and New Mexico. Iverson though has cancelled that out by winning much of the South...Texas, Arkansas, Tennessee, the President's homestate of Louisiana, Florida and Georgia. Pretty much, this thing is dead even.
Pundit #2: I can't agree more.

MOON GLANCES AT THE ELECTORAL VOTE COUNT.

Moon: 258
Iverson: 250

END SCENE

[Reaganfan]

Mike, what numbers are you using for EVs?

I'm using the current EVs just to avoid confusion.

[Reaganfan]

SCENE OPENS AT 3:05AM, GOVERNOR IVERSON'S HOTEL ROOM. JACK IVERSON WALKS INTO BEDROOM WHERE HIS WIFE JEANNE IS STANDING.

Iverson: Rachel's out like a light.
Jeanne: What's the score?
Iverson: I am at 250.
Jeanne: What about him?
Iverson: Moon is at 258.

GOVERNOR IVERSON HEARS THE TELEVISION.

REPORT: WE NOW PROJECT THAT WHEN ALL IS SAID AND DONE, THE STATE OF WISCONSIN WILL GO TO SENATOR MOON.

Iverson: Make that 268.

JEANNE LOOKS DOWN IN SADNESS, WALKS OVER TO GOVERNOR IVERSON.

Jeanne: Baby...I'm sorry.
Iverson: Oh baby...that's alright. I'm surprised we did as well as we did.

THEY WALK INTO LIVING ROOM, NO STAFFERS IN SIGHT, DAUGHTER RACHEL ASLEEP ON THE COUCH. IVERSON LOOKS AT THE TELEVISION.

Reporter: The state of Ohio has been close all along, and right now with 97% of precincts reporting...Iverson has a 280,000 vote lead...if he were to win Ohio...let me check...yes if he were to win Ohio...he would have the correct amount of electoral votes to win the Presidency. Suddenly...the pressure...for once this entire campaign...is on Senator Moon.

Jeanne: JACK, THIS IS AMAZING!
Iverson: Don't get your hopes up...but it is good news. Then again...I don't want recount s*it.

CAMPAIGN CHAIRMAN BILL THOMAS WALKS IN THE ROOM.

Thomas: Sir...are you watching this!?
Iverson: Is this a dream?
Thomas: A dream come true...Governor...you're now up 350,000 in Ohio with 98% of precincts in.

THOMAS LOOKS AT CELL PHONE.

Iverson: Let me switch it to NBC...
Thomas: So he is at 268?
Jeanne: DAMN this is close!
Thomas: Mrs. Iverson, that's better than Moon being distantly ahead (laughs)

GOVERNOR IVERSON NERVOUS LAUGHS, BITES FINGER NAILS AND FLIPS TO NBC.

NBC ANNOUNCEMENT: It is that time...with 99% of precincts reporting...hard work on the Iverson/Quinn campaign has proved cruical in the Buckeye State. We now project that Governor Jack Iverson has won the state of Ohio, and thus with that, Governor Jackson Paul Iverson of Minnesota is now the President-elect of the United States.

IVERSON STANDS IN HOTEL ROOM, WIFE JEANNE, AND BILL THOMAS STAND IN ROOM STUNNED. AFTER A PERIOD OF SILENCE, JEANNE IVERSON SCREAMS.

Jeanne: OH MY GOD, JACK! YOU WON! YOU WON!

RACHEL IVERSON WAKES UP ON COUCH.

Rachel: Whata---what's---what happened?
Jeanne: (EXCITED) YOUR FATHER WON! HE'S THE WINNER!
Rachel: Nah-ah! OH MY GOD, DADDY!

JACK IVERSON LAUGHS AND SMILES, HUGS HIS WIFE AND DAUGHTER. HE TURNS TO BILL THOMAS AND SHAKES HIS HAND.

Iverson: Bill...I couldn't have done this without you.
Thomas: It's been a honor to work with you, Mr. President-elect.

NBC ANNOUNCEMENT: I guess there is something to be said...or that must be said...with all electoral votes in from across the country...with every state now projected...Jack Iverson is the next President of the United States. Again, Minnesota's favorite son Jack Iverson is the new President-elect. It was a call made at 3:10 am Eastern Time, that surely has jolted all time zones within the United States and the World. The new President of the United States, Jack Iverson.

SCENE SHIFTS TO MOON HOTEL ROOM. SENATOR MOON SITS ON COUCH, ABSOLUTELY STILL-FACED. CAMPAIGN CHAIRMAN GEORGE MALVOX COVERS MOUTH WITH A STUNNED LOOK ON HIS FACE.

DAUGHTER KENDRA CRIES WHILE SON TOM PUTS HIS HAND ON HIS FATHER'S SHOULDER.

Moon: Well...that was...interesting...
Kendra: (crying) Oh daddy...

KENDRA HUGS HER FATHER.

Moon: Now now, baby. It's alright. It's just a political race...it's alright.
Kendra: BUT I DON'T UNDERSTAND...IT SAYS YOU'RE WINNING!
Moon: That's the popular vote, sweetheart.
Kendra: I DON'T UNDERSTAND! (cries and hugs father)

MOON LOOKS AT GEORGE MALVOX.

Malvox: He's got a 500,000 lead, Senator. Courts and recounts won't cut it.
Moon: I see what you're saying, George. Thank you, for everything.

MOON GLANCES AT TELEVISION AND SEES PICTURE OF JACK IVERSON SMILING WITH THE PRESIDENTIAL SEAL BEHIND HIM. CABLE NEWS NETWORK BANNER READS: IVERSON WINS PRESIDENCY.

MOON LOOKS DOWN AND PICKS UP PHONE. HE PULLS A CARD OUT OF HIS POCKET WITH IVERSON'S HOTEL PHONE NUMBER ON IT. HE DIALS. HE GLANCES AT ELECTORAL MAP.

IVERSON: 270*
MOON: 268

SCENE SHIFTS TO IVERSON RALLY OUTSIDE HOTEL IN ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA. FIREWORKS ARE GOING OFF AND PEOPLE ARE WILDLY CHEERING. INSIDE THE HOTEL ROOM, IVERSON, TEARS IN HIS EYES, HUGS HIS WIFE AND DAUGHTER. THE PHONE RINGS. IVERSON ANSWERS CHEERFULLY.

Iverson: (on phone) Hello?
Moon: (on phone) Hey there, Governor...it's Chris Moon.
Iverson: Senator Moon, pleasure to speak with you, sir.
Moon: Yeah Governor, it looks like you've sealed the deal.
Iverson: You ran a tough campaign, sir. You really did.
Moon: (cringes) Well, I guess that's a concession phone call...now all I have to do is the speech.
Iverson: We should meet next week, Senator. To show unity after a bitter election, you know?
Moon: Sure, yeah, sure. Look, Jack, I've gotta go give this speech. It's almost 4 o'clock in the morning...so let me get this overwith.
Iverson: Understood, thank you Senator.
Moon: Take care. (HANGS UP THE PHONE)

END SCENE

[Reaganfan]

I am using the electoral count of 2008, but it takes place about two decades in the future.

Here is the map:

[Reaganfan]

Are the coalitions inside the 2 parties different than now?

The Democratic Party isn't as far left as today, but the Republican party is pretty much like it was in the 1980s.

[Reaganfan]

Hm. What do you mean by not as far left? Did the dems go populist or did they move in a clintonian direction?

That's not important to the story. We still have moderates, centrists, liberals and conservatives on all fronts.

[Reaganfan]

DAUGHTER KENDRA CRIES WHILE SON TOM PUTS HIS HAND ON HIS FATHER'S SHOULDER.

Moon: Well...that was...interesting...
Kendra: (crying) Oh daddy...

KENDRA HUGS HER FATHER.

Moon: Now now, baby. It's alright. It's just a political race...it's alright.
Kendra: BUT I DON'T UNDERSTAND...IT SAYS YOU'RE WINNING!
Moon: That's the popular vote, sweetheart.
Kendra: I DON'T UNDERSTAND! (cries and hugs father)

Somehow, I feel that the 23-year-old daughter of a Seantor would understand popular vote and Electoral Votes.  And even if she didn't, I don't see her crying.

Dumb blonde, Inks. Just stay tuned LOL

[Reaganfan]

SCENE OPENS AT 4:15AM, AS SENATOR CHRIS MOON WALKS ONTO THE STAGE IN PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA BELOW THE HOTEL WHERE HE AND HIS FAMILY WATCHED RESULTS. THE CROWD IS WILDLY CHEERING AS HE WALKS ON STAGE, CONGRESSMAN PAUL SANDERSON, SON AND DAUGHTER NEXT TO HIM. HE WALKS UP TO THE MICROPHONE AND CALMS THE CHEERING CROWD.

Moon: Well, ladies and gentlemen...that time has come...where our nation has elected a new President. A little while ago, I had a good phone call with Governor Iverson.
(CROWD BEGINS BOOING)
Moon: Now...Now...Please. We had a conversation about the need for unity in America. I congratulated him on being elected the 48th President of the United States. I understand how great a moment this is for President-elect Iverson and his family. I wish them the best as they head to the White House. As for me, I'd like to thank my campaign chairman George Malvox for his excellent efforts.
(CROWD APPLAUDES)
Moon: I also want to thank Congressmen Sanderson who I am sure we can all agree would have made a fine Vice President and has a bright future in the Democratic Party.
(CROWD CHEERS AS SANDERSON WAVES)
Moon: It has been a long and sometimes difficult journey, and it ends with a result I know myself and many of you feel disappointment about. But let our love for country be stronger than the opinions and feelings stirred up by a long and tough political campaign. Let's all get behind President-elect Iverson and Vice President-elect Quinn and wish them the best as they head to the White House to help promote freedom and democracy for every American. THANK YOU ALL VERY VERY MUCH!

CROWD WILDLY CHEERS AND MUSIC PLAYS AS SENATOR MOON, CONGRESSMAN SANDERSON AND THEIR FAMILIES WAVE AND EXIT THE STAGE. SCENE SHIFTS TO IVERSON VICTORY RALLY AT 4:35AM. PRESIDENT-ELECT IVERSON AND VICE PRESIDENT-ELECT HANK QUINN INTERLOCK HANDS AS THE CROWD CHEERS. IVERSON WALKS UP TO THE MICROPHONE.

Iverson: Thank you all, my fellow Americans.
(CROWD CHEERS WILDLY)
Iverson: A few minutes ago, I recieved a phone call from Senator Moon. He was very considerate to the thoughts and cares of a country as divided as we are politically at the end of this long and hard campaign. He and I have agreed to meet next week to help unify our country.
(CROWD APPLAUDES)
Iverson: I want to thank my lovely wife Jeanne for her support, and my beautiful daughter Rachel. Without them, I could never have come this far.
(CROWD CHEERS AS JEANNE AND RACHEL WAVE)
Iverson: I want to thank Secretary Quinn for all he has done during this campaign, and I know he will make a great Vice President.
(CROWD CHEERS AS VICE PRESIDENT-ELECT QUINN WAVES)

SCENE SHIFTS TO HOTEL IN PHILADELPHIA, SENATOR MOON WATCHES ON TELEVISION. HE POURS A DRINK AND GULPS IT STRAIGHT DOWN. HE HOLDS A PICTURE OF A WOMAN AND LOOKS AT IT. ALREADY BEGINNING TO GET DRUNK, HE SITS ON THE BED ALONE AND WATCHES IVERSON.

Moon: (to himself) You son of a bitch. This was mine.

MOON LOOKS AT TELEVISION AS IT SHOWS AN IMAGE OF A SMILING JACK IVERSON WITH THE WORDS "48TH PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES" UNDER IT. MOON FOCUSES ON IVERSON'S FACE...HIS EYES...HIS SMILE....MOON IS FILLED WITH RAGE.

Moon: I'm gonna...make you pay. Iverson....IVERSON...ugh...ugh....

MOON ROLLS OVER DRUNK ON THE BED.

SCENE ENDS

[Reaganfan]

NEWSREPORT OPENS - NOVEMBER 8TH, THE DAY AFTER

Reporter: Across Washington, the mood was generally quiet following a stunning political upset last night. Minnesota Governor Jack Iverson defeated his Democratic rival, Pennsylvania Senator Chris Moon by the narrowest of margins last night in the electoral college. With millions of votes in from across the country, Moon leads in the popular vote by some 500,000 votes. Moon's campaign chairman George Malvox took questions from reporters this morning on why a predicted Moon landslide turned into a narrow Moon defeat.
Malvox: Governor Iverson rallied his supporters across the country, in Florida and Ohio he had a strong ground game, and that gave him the electoral college, and thus the Presidency.
Reporter: Pre-election polls showed a significant lead for Moon, with many newspapers even printing the cover story "PRESIDENT MOON" and "MOON DEFEATS IVERSON". Cover stories sure to be in the history books for years to come. People across New York City seemed to have differing opinions on the result.
Man #1: I voted for Moon and he should have won.
Man #2: Iverson won and what's done is done.
Woman #1: I voted for Jack Iverson but everyone I know voted for Chris Moon.
Woman #2: I voted for Moon.
Reporter: The new President-elect will meet with Senator Moon next week to discuss the results and how to help unify a country divided following a tough political campaign.

TELEVISION SHUTS OFF AS IVERSON GETS DRESSED IN HOTEL ROOM WITH WIFE JEANNE STANDING NEXT TO HIM.

Jeanne: Oh Jack...why are you wearing that purple tie?
Iverson: (buttoning shirt with tie around neck) I like it, babe.
Jeanne: It's so...girly.
Iverson: Oh hush, Jeanne. (chuckles) I'm the President-elect. I can wear any type of tie I want.

JEANNE IVERSON LAUGHS AND ROLLS EYES. RACHEL RUNS IN THE ROOM.

Rachel: Dad! Dad!
Iverson: What is it, babe?
Rachel: I just got off the phone with my best friend Tara and she wants to know if she can meet you!
Iverson: Sure...but why were you on the phone?
Jeanne: Oh Jack...she's 13 years old...she has her own cell phone.
Iverson: Since when?
Jeanne: Since last year.

SECRET SERVICE AGENT WALKS IN THE ROOM, BLACK MAN, EARLY 30S, AVIATOR SUNGLASSES ON.

Iverson: Hey there, can I help you?
Texx: Yes sir, I'm not interrupting am I?
Iverson: Not at all, come in. I'm Jack Iverson, this is my wife Jeanne and my daughter Rachel.
Texx: I'm Agent Ray Texx, I've been assigned protection for you, Governor.
Iverson: Well great to meet you!
Texx: I am here to disclose your Secret Service codenames.
Iverson: Go for it.
Texx: Mr. Iverson, your codename is Matrix. Mrs. Iverson, your codename is Ivy. Rachel, sweetie, your codename is Buttercup.
Iverson: Sounds good Texx.
Texx: Absolutely. I got your back, sir.
Iverson: Thanks, man.

END SCENE

SCENE OPENS AS SENATOR MOON LAYS PASSED OUT IN BED. DAUGHTER KENDRA WALKS IN ROOM.

Kendra: Daddy?
Moon: (moans)
Kendra: Dad...are you alright?
Moon: (coughs) Oh yeah...yeah...I uh...what...what time is it?
Kendra: It's 11:30. You slept in late.
Moon: (chuckles) Yeah well I...I didn't have...I didn't have much to do today.
Kendra: Daddy, are you gonna be speaking to the press?
Moon: (sits up on edge of bed) I don't know, baby.
Kendra: Are you okay?
Moon: Yeah, yeah...I'm fine. I just could use an asprin if you've got any.
Kendra: Let me go check my purse.

KENDRA WALKS OUT OF THE ROOM, MOON TURNS ON THE TELEVISION AND BEGINS FLIPPING CHANNELS.

Channel #1: Moon's loss may stem from the idea that his election was inevitable-(CHANGES)
Channel #2: Iverson tried to close the deal and he clearly did-(CHANGES)
Channel #3: ...the new Vice President-elect Hank Quinn has served as Secretary of State for the last eight years under the Republican Administration of President-(CHANGES)

TELEVISION SHUTS OFF. KENDRA WALKS BACK IN THE ROOM.

Kendra: Here's two headache pills, Dad.
Moon: (takes pills from her) Thanks babe.
Kendra: Don't feel so bad...there is always another shot in four years.

MOON SMILES.

END SCENE

SCENE OPENS TWO DAYS LATER IN GOVERNOR'S OFFICE, BOXES ALREADY BEING PACKED. GOVERNOR IVERSON STANDS AT DESK ON THE PHONE. CAMPAIGN CHAIRMAN BILL THOMAS WALKS IN.

Iverson: (on phone) Yes sir...yes...looking forward to it. Take care. (HANGS UP PHONE)
Thomas: Who was that?
Iverson: The President. Just calling to check in and see how things were going.
Thomas: Did he let you call him Bobby? (laughs)
Iverson: (laughs) I can thank his Secretary of State for putting me over the top.
Thomas: Quinn sure knows foreign policy.
Iverson: Hell yeah, Bill. Without Hank Quinn...Chris Moon would be the President-elect right now.
Thomas: So, Governor...how's it feel?
Iverson: (shrugs) Ah...a little strange. I'm gonna miss Minnesota quite a bit. Being Governor for six years grows on you...now I figure I'll take a crack at the entire country. (chuckles)
Thomas: When are you resigning?
Iverson: Next Wednesday, the 15th.
Thomas: Lt. Governor Fields prepared?
Iverson: Oh yeah, yeah...he's all set. Anxious. Personally I think he wanted to be Governor all along...that's why he stuck on the ticket two years ago instead of running for Senate.
Thomas: Ah, he figured if you become President...he's Governor.
Iverson: Exactly.
Thomas: So, when are you meeting with Moon?
Iverson: I'm not sure...we agreed to next week but I haven't heard from him or his staff, yet.
Thomas: He holds ill feelings, you know.
Iverson: (nods) Oh yeah...I can tell. Something about the guy gives me a feeling...that he is really....pissed.
Thomas: (laughs) Yep. He won the popular vote and got two electoral votes shy of the Presidency. That could a piss a guy off.
Iverson: (chuckles) Well Bill, I told you six months ago you were coming with me to Washington. How about it? Senior Political Advisor in the White House?
Thomas: You bet, Mr. President-elect.

IVERSON AND THOMAS LAUGH AND SHAKE HANDS.

END SCENE

[Reaganfan]

Tom: What about me, pop?
Moon: You...you're gonna be the horniest bachelor in all of the United States, my boy! (laughs)
Tom: ALL RIGHT! (laughs and high-fives dad)

hahahaha

Thought that was funny

[Reaganfan]

SCENE OPENS, SENATOR MOON'S HOME. CHRIS MOON WALKS IN, ALONE TO AN EMPTY LARGE HOUSE. HIS CHILDREN AREN'T THERE, AND NOBODY ELSE IS EITHER. HE STEPS IN HOLDING TWO BAGS. HE HASN'T BEEN HOME IN WEEKS.

Moon: (to himself) This wasn't exactly the home I intended on coming back to.

MOON WALKS OVER TO THE KITCHEN AND LOOKS IN THE REFRIGERATOR. ALL THAT IS IN THERE IS BAKING SODA, TWO BUDWEISER BEERS, A CAN OF COKE AND A PACK OF CHEESE. MOON GRABS THE CHEESE AND A BEER. HE GRABS A KNIFE FROM THE DRAWER AND SLICES A PIECE OF CHEESE.

Moon: (to himself) Ah...what the ...how did it come to this? I am the President. More people voted for me. Iverson is a sh**t for brains who doesn't deserve the White House....HE DOESN'T DESERVE IT!!

MOON, VERY ANGRY, GRABS THE KNIFE AND BEGINS STABBING THE WALL AND THE KITCHEN SINK.

Moon: MOTHERING SON OF A BITCH!!!

MOON BREAKS THE KNIFE AND FALLS TO THE KITCHEN FLOOR. HE REACHES UP TO THE COUNTER, GRABS A BEER AND POPS IT OPEN. HE PULLS A PICTURE OF A WOMAN OUT OF HIS PANTS POCKET.

Moon: (to himself) What the hell, babe? Why did you leave me? I miss you so much. Karen....Karen...my First Lady...

MOON CRIES AND GULPS DOWN BEER.

---- FLASHBACK----

MID-SEPTEMBER - BACKSTAGE AFTER FIRST PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE - SENATOR MOON AND CAMPAIGN CHAIRMAN GEORGE MALVOX SMILE AND SHAKE HANDS.
Malvox: Holy sh*t, Senator...I knew you were a veteran debater, but you cleaned the floor!
Moon: George, George...I just shot the American people straight.
Malvox: Well, polls show a decisive debate win for you. Rumor has it they're cryin' over at Iverson headquarters! (laughs)
Moon: (laughs) Well if I were losing in every national poll by 15 points, I'd be pretty upset too.

DAUGHTER KENDRA AND SON TOM MOON WALK UP TO THEIR FATHER BACKSTAGE.

Kendra: Daddy! (hugs father) You did SO well!
Tom: You really knocked it outta the park, Dad. You made Governor Iverson look like a lightweight.
Moon: Please! The guy is a lightweight. I've been a Congressmen, a Senator...for years. I've been to the Middle East, I've been to tons of countries...what has he done? Okay...Governor of Minnesota for six years...BIG WHOOP! The Republicans aren't gonna get 12 years in the White House...it just ain't happening under my watch!
Malvox: Sir, just run the table the next few weeks, and it won't even be close.

---- FLASHBACK----  TO PRESENT, MOON WAKES UP, BEER BOTTLES SURROUNDING HIM, TELEVISION ON.

Reporter: The President and President-elect Iverson met today to discuss the transition of power. Since both Presidents are of the same political party, the invitation by the President was seen as a friendly, happy one. Both men met at the White House and had a lunch and walked around the White House grounds.

MOON THROWS BEER BOTTLE AT TELEVISION.

END SCENE

[Reaganfan]

SCENE OPENS, PRESS CONFERENCE, PRESIDENT-ELECT IVERSON AND VICE PRESIDENT-ELECT QUINN STAND AT PODIUM TAKING QUESTIONS FROM THE PRESS.

Iverson: Kelly, go ahead.
Kelly: Governor, many in the Washington inner circle are concerned that you're outsider status will result in poor judgement in regards to cabinet appointments you'll make. What is your response?
Iverson: Well, if you can just give me their names...

PRESS LAUGHS, VICE PRESIDENT-ELECT QUINN CHUCKLES.

Iverson: I feel that my being an outsider will be an asset to Washington, not a liability. Look, some people may feel that way, but I honestly don't care. The people of America elected me to take the helm and fix the problems that come before our nation.
Reporter: Sir! How can you change Washington if you're of the same political party as the President?
Iverson: Look, I've met with the President, I've spoken to him numerous times, and we have agreed that while our political affiliation and beliefs are the same, not all of our policies will be exactly the same.
Reporter: How can you justify that with Secretary of State Quinn becoming your Vice President?
Iverson: Hank, you wanna take this one? (chuckles)
Quinn: Look, until January 20th, I am still the Secretary of State for this President...but come January 20th, I'll be working hand in hand along side THIS President. America hasn't elected the President to a third term. Jack Iverson is his own man and will be his own kind of President, and as Vice President, I'll give him my support 100%.

END SCENE

SCENE OPENS AT THANKSGIVING, MOON RESIDENCE. SENATOR MOON, DAUGHTER KENDRA, SON TOM AND FRIENDS SIT AT DINNER TABLE. MOON'S FRIEND HAL WYLAND, 45, SLIGHTLY BALDING, IS EATING TURKEY AND STUFFING.

Wyland: Good good stuffing, Chris.
Moon: Ah, that's all Kendra right there.
Wyland: Excellent stuffing Kendra.
Tom: (under his breath) That's nothing new. (snorts a laugh)
Kendra: SHUTUP TOM!
Moon: NOW GUYS BEHAVE! Actin' like a bunch of kids.
Wyland: So, Chris...how has work been ever since the election?
Moon: (chuckles) What work? I'm a Senator!

EVERYONE LAUGHS

Moon: Honestly...I haven't done much. The whole thing must take a while to wear off.
Wyland: Haven't you met with Iverson yet?
Moon: (cringes) No...no...not yet.
Wyland: I heard you two were gonna meet after the election.
Moon: I guess we just never got around to it, that's all.
Tom: I still can't believe Iverson won.
Kendra: He didn't really win, Tom.
Moon: What's that supposed to mean, Kendra?
Kendra: Daddy, you got 71 million votes.
Moon: Yeah?
Kendra: Iverson got 70 million. You won.
Moon: Yeah but that doesn't mean anything...I lost Ohio and the electoral college.
Kendra: I just don't think it's fair.
Moon: Well, that's the way it's been done forever, sweetheart.
Tom: I have to say, Dad...you're taking this alot better than I thought you were.
Moon: What do you mean?
Tom: Well, a few weeks ago I got a little worried...but it seems you're pretty much over it. Ya know, like you have your own plans.
Moon: (looks down and grins and chuckles) Yep...yep...I got some plans, alright. More turkey, anyone?

END SCENE

SCENE OPENS, DECEMBER 16TH, AT A CHRISTMAS PARTY IN THE MINNESOTA GOVERNOR'S MANSION. FORMER LT. GOV AND NEW GOVERNOR OF MINNESOTA KEN FIELDS, 35 YEARS OLD, BLOND HAIR, WALKS UP TO PRESIDENT-ELECT IVERSON AND WIFE JEANNE. CHRISTMAS SONG "CHRISTMAS (BABY PLEASE COME HOME)" PLAYS IN THE BACKGROUND.

Fields: Mr. President-elect! Mrs. First Lady-elect! Pleasure to see you guys!
Iverson: Hey Ken! How's it feel to be Governor of Minnesota?
Fields: Pretty good, sir. How did it feel resigning?
Iverson: Ah, it was sad. I'm gonna miss Minnesota, but I'll be back.
Fields: Yeah, as a Former President ice fishing on some random frozen lake.
Jeanne: (laughs) Yep..yep...that'll be Jack.
Iverson: I already hear the "Fargo" jokes on the late night shows.
Fields: Ah...yeah...the whole "accent" thing.
Iverson: I never thought I had one...but they say I do. (chuckles)
Jeanne: The insiders expect moose-heads to be hanging up inside the White House.
Iverson: Ah come on Jeanne...it'll be Largemouth Bass. (laughs)
Fields: (laughs) Well, Jack...I just wanted to wish my best. You have a Merry Christmas, sir.
Iverson: You too, Ken!

SUDDENLY THE SONG "SOMEDAY AT CHRISTMAS" BEGINS PLAYING.

Iverson: Wanna dance, babe?
Jeanne: Are we allowed, Jack?
Iverson: I'm the President-elect of the United States...I'm allowed to dance with my wife wherever I want.

THE PRESIDENT-ELECT AND JEANNE IVERSON SHARE A NICE DANCING MOMENT TO THE HOLIDAY MUSIC. THE LYRICS RING TRUE TO IVERSON AS HE LISTENS:

"Someday all our dreams will come to be
Someday in a world where men are free
Maybe not in time for you and me
But someday at Christmastime"

THE PARTY GUESTS APPLAUD WHEN THE DANCE FINISHES. IVERSON AND HIS WIFE KISS. HE WHISPERS IN HER EAR.

Iverson: I love you so much, sweetheart.

END SCENE

[Reaganfan]

Will the sitting President ever be identified?  Or do you leave it up to the reader?

I've left a few hints in this story but it is rather irrelevent. My story universe begins with the election of Jack Iverson.

[Reaganfan]

SCENE OPENS, DECEMBER 20TH, PRESIDENT-ELECT IVERSON AT HIS HOME INFRONT OF THE TELVISION, A SMALL BOWL OF POPCORN AND A CAN OF COKE NEXT TO HIM. JEANNE IVERSON WALKS IN THE ROOM.

Jeanne: Jack, Chris Moon is on the telephone for you.

IVERSON PICKS UP PHONE.

Iverson: (on phone) Hello?
Moon: (on phone) Jack...Jack...how are you?
Iverson: (a little baffled) Uh...I'm good, Senator. How about yourself.
Moon: Ah...I'm fine...I just...I've been really busy what with the Senate work and all.
Iverson: Of course, of course.
Moon: Jack, we never did meet after the election last month...I'm gonna be flying into Duluth for a business meeting on Christmas Eve.
Iverson: Sounds like a crappy date for a business meeting.
Moon: Yep...yep, indeed it is. But...I figured since I'll be in town, we can meet. Maybe in the evening...
Iverson: Well, Jeanne, Rachel and I are going to visit family late on Christmas Eve...how's around 5 or so?
Moon: I'll be there!
Iverson: Good, good...I'll have my security guy Texx send ya right into the house. We're still packin' up so it's like one giant half-empty mansion. You could get lost in it! (laughs)
Moon: (laughs) Sounds good, sir. I'll guess I'll see you in four days!
Iverson: Sure thing!
Moon: Oh yeah, Jack...one more thing.
Iverson: You bet, Chris.
Moon: Don't tell the press...they've been hounding me ever since the election and I would rather us just meet and chat without the flashbulbs every five seconds.
Iverson: Of course, Chris.
Moon: Excellent. Looking forward to it, sir.
Iverson: Sure thing, see you then.

IVERSON HANGS UP PHONE. JEANNE WALKS BACK IN ROOM.

Jeanne: What was that about?
Iverson: Ah...just some political business between old foes. (chuckles)

SCENE SHIFTS BACK TO MOON HANGING UP PHONE. HE GRABS A DRINK AND GUZZLES IT DOWN. HE LAUGHS SINISTERLY.

END SCENE

SCENE OPENS, DECEMBER 21ST, WITH AN ANGRY SENATOR MOON...PACING BACK AND FORTH IN HIS HOME OFFICE ROOM. HE HEARS THE DOORBELL AND WALKS TO THE DOOR. HE OPENS THE DOOR TO FIND A MAN, BALDING WITH MUSTACHE, 50 YEARS OLD OR SO, WAITING IN THE COLD, BLOWING SNOW.

Moon: You must be Lester Welding!
Welding: Senator Moon!
Moon: Yeah yeah, come in!
Welding: Pleasure to meet you, Senator. I'm sorry about the election. I voted for you, sir.
Moon: Thank you, thank you. Come on back to my personal office.

MOON TAKES WELDING BACK TO HIS OFFICE.

Moon: Weather's wicked, huh?
Welding: Colder than the North Pole, Senator!
Moon: Can I get you something to drink?
Welding: I'm fine, thank you.
Moon: Yep...nothing like a cold winter in Pennsylvania. I remember back in '17, walking out in the woods with my late wife Karen and our kids, over in Avondale. The wind was so cold...it'd cut right through ya.
Welding: I hear the weather will be nice here for Christmas, though.
Moon: Well, it won't be for me.
Welding: How come?
Moon: Because I'll be visiting with a friend in Minnesota.
Welding: Sounds interesting. I actually was in Minnesota before...back in '12....I met...well not met...I got to shake President Obama's hand. I mean, it was a fast thing but-
Moon: I'M SURE...it's a great story...but...Mr. Welding...we're here to discuss some business.
Welding: Of course, sir.
Moon: So...what have we got?
Welding: A real beaut, Senator.

WELDING PULLS OUT A BRIEFCASE.

Welding: Silver, 9mm automatic, 17 shots, one up the pipe...quite a nice firearm.
Moon: What's it's stopping power?
Welding: I wouldn't wanna find out. Rumor has it one of these things once went straight through two men and then through a car. That's just one bullet. One of 18. Quite a package, Senator.
Moon: Yeah it sure looks like it...

MOON GRABS THE GUN AND OBSERVES IT.

Welding: What's your purpose for owning it?
Moon: Ah...I figured might as well start a collection.
Welding: Well it's sure a beaut.
Moon: How about this one?

MOON PICKS UP ANOTHER GUN, SMALL REVOLVER FROM THE CASE.

Welding: Ah...a "Saturday Night Special". Silver, snubnose, .38 caliber. Six shots...nice little weapon.
Moon: Pretty small size.
Welding: Absolutely...perfect for an ankle holster.
Moon: Yeah...Yeah...where can I get an ankle holster...hell...a holster for Mr. 9MM?
Welding: (chuckles) Look no further. I can get you this 9MM, .38, and two holsters.
Moon: How fast?
Welding: (chuckles) Senator...I can have them by morning!
Moon: How much would it cost me?
Welding: Well, the 9MM is $500...the .38 is $400....the holsters would be about $120 put together...plus two extra 9MM ammo clips that cost whatever...I'd say about $1,300.
Moon: I'll take all of that. But look...I'll need to pick it all up when I'm in Minnesota.
Welding: Not a problem at all, which city?
Moon: Duluth.
Welding: I'll tell ya what I'll do, Senator. I'll have one of our boys prepare everything you need. Just take this card, give us a call when you get to Duluth, and we'll have one of our St. Paul boys deliver everything to ya on Christmas Eve...wherever you're at. You wanna pay in advance?
Moon: Sure.
Welding: Check?
Moon: Nah...cash.
Welding: Wow.

MOON PULLS HIS WALLET OUT...GLANCES A LOOK AT HIS WIFE'S PICTURE...THEN PULLS OUT TWO $500 BILLS, AND THREE $100 BILLS.

Moon: Here ya go...$1,300 dollars upfront.
Welding: WOW. I've never seen a $500 bill before. They're rare, huh?
Moon: Yep. I have a collection of them...but rarely give them out. For you though, I figured...what the hell! It's Christmas.
Welding: Thank you for doing business Senator.
Moon: Not a problem, thank you, Mr. Welding.

MOON WALKS WELDING TO THE DOOR.

Welding: Wow...a $500 dollar bill. Which President is that?
Moon: That's President William McKinley.
Welding: Huh...whatever happened to him?
Moon: He got shot. Merry Christmas to ya.
Welding: Merry Christmas.

MOON SHUTS THE DOOR AND CHUCKLES.

END SCENE

[Reaganfan]

SCENE OPENS THE NEXT DAY, DECEMBER 22ND, A FRIDAY. SENATOR MOON OPENS THE DOOR TO HIS HOME AND HIS DAUGHTER KENDRA AND SON TOM WALK IN WITH GIFTS.

Moon: Hey guys!
Kendra: Merry Christmas, Daddy!
Tom: Merry Christmas! Merry Christmas!
Moon: What you all got in here?
Kendra: Just a few Christmas goodies!
Tom: Dad, why do we have to exchange gifts today?
Moon: Well, Tom I'm going out of town and won't be back until after Christmas.
Kendra: Where are you going?
Moon: Minnesota.
Tom: What for?
Moon: Ah...business meeting.
Kendra: (rolls eyes) Ugh...Dad I hate politics.
Moon: Well then you're probably happy I didn't win that election.
Kendra: Why would I be happy you lost?
Moon: Well politics is a rough game, and I would have been the leader of the free world.
Tom: Whatever. The point is...we're exchanging gifts today and I go first! (laughs)

SCENE SHIFTS TO  IVERSON HOME, DULUTH, MINNESOTA. MANY BOXES HAVE BEEN PACKED AWAY WITH THE IMPENDING MOVE INTO THE WHITE HOUSE. PRESIDENT-ELECT IVERSON LOOKS OUT THE WINDOW AT THE SNOW FALLING. SECRET SERVICE AGENT RAY TEXX WALKS IN.

Iverson: Hey Ray.
Texx: Hey sir.
Iverson: What's up?
Texx: I have a gift to give you, sir.
Iverson: (chuckles) Really?
Texx: Yes sir...well...have gift...have protection.
Iverson: Thank you so much, Texx.

IVERSON UNWRAPS IT. IT IS A SILVER BRACELET.

Texx: New Secret Service tool. You wear it on your wrist, it looks like a normal bracelet that would rarely even be seen with a suit and dress shirt on. But if you somehow get in danger, or need me at your side, just pop open that catch and press that little gray button in...and I'll be at your side in a flash.

IVERSON PUTS ON THE BRACELET.

Iverson: May I test it out?
Texx: Yo man, you're the President.
Iverson: (chuckles) Yep.

IVERSON FLIPS THE CATCH AND PRESSES THE BUTTON. A FAINT BEEPING NOISE IS HEARD FROM TEXX'S EARPIECE.

Texx: Works like a charm, sir.
Iverson: Thank you, Texx. I feel...safe. (chuckles)
Texx: You bet, Mr. President. By the way...
Iverson: Yeah?
Texx: I voted for you, sir.
Iverson: Thanks, Ray.
Texx: Sure thing. So, what are your plans for the weekend?
Iverson: Tomorrow I have to go to the Governor's Mansion, a little pre-Christmas Eve party with Governor Fields. Then on Christmas Eve, Senator Moon is coming here to meet with me in the evening.
Texx: Ah, yes...I heard you two were gonna meet.
Iverson: Well, we never got around to it. We decided to keep it hush-hush so the press wouldn't bombard us.
(chuckles)
Texx: Understandable. (chuckles)
Iverson: While we're here, Jeanne and Rachel will be at her parent's house.
Texx: You won't be going?
Iverson: (laughs) I may be the President-elect, but I'm still aggrivated at my in-laws. Besides...Jeanne's father is a huge bleeding heart.
Texx: (laughs)
Iverson: After I meet with Moon, I'll head over to more family and yadda yadda yadda, you know?
Texx: Well sir, Agent Roscoe and I will be here with you and Senator Moon.
Iverson: Sounds good, Texx.

TEXX AND IVERSON SHAKE HANDS.

END SCENE

SCENE OPENS - DECEMBER 23RD - A PARTY AT GOVERNOR'S MANSION. PRESIDENT-ELECT IVERSON STANDS AT PODIUM IN A TUXEDO.

Iverson: Ya know...when I was elected Governor...which by the way thank you all for voting for me...
CROWD LAUGHS
Iverson: When I was elected many of the pundits on television and talk radio said that they liked me...but that they didn't believe I had the "stuff" that it took to effective run a state. Well...ladies and gentlemen...I not only had the "stuff" to effectively run a state for six years...but I will now be effectively running the entire country for the NEXT FOUR!
CROWD APPLAUDES
Iverson: Let there be no mistake about it...as Jeanne and I leave for Washington....we have a deep sense of love in our hearts for the state of Minnesota. And...we have left the state in good hands with our new Governor, Ken Fields!
CROWD APPLAUDES
Iverson: Thank you, God Bless you, and Merry Christmas!

SCENE ENDS

SCENE OPENS - DECEMBER 24RD - CHRISTMAS EVE - LATE MORNING. SENATOR MOON ARRIVES AT DULUTH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. HE IS CARRYING ON BAG OF LUGGAGE. HE WALKS OVER TO A PAYPHONE. HE PULLS OUT THE CARD OF WELDING AND DIALS THE NUMBER.

Moon: (on phone) Yeah....this is Moon. I'm in Duluth. Meet me in two hours at the Rest Stop off Route 53. Bring the stuff.

MOON HANGS UP PHONE AND WALKS OUT OF AIRPORT.

[Reaganfan]

SCENE OPENS, OUTSIDE REST AREA. SNOW HAS FALLEN BUT IT IS NOT CURRENTLY SNOWING. SENATOR MOON WAITS HOLDING HIS BAG. A 2019 MERCURY MILAN, BLACK, PULLS UP. A MAN, EARLY 30S, LEATHER JACKET, DARK HAIR GETS OUT OF IT.

Bob: My name is Bob. You must be Senator Moon.
Moon: That's right, Bob. You got the guns?
Bob: Sure thing, Senator.

BOB GOES TO THE TRUNK, POPS IT OPEN, AND REVEALS A BRIEFCASE. INSIDE OF IT IS A SILVER, 9MM WITH TWO EXTRA MAGAZINES, A SNUBNOSE .38 CALIBER WITH A BOX OF EXTRA BULLETS, AND TWO HOLSTERS. MOON PICKS UP THE 9MM.

Bob: Senator...those guns are already loaded...you've already paid. We're all set.
Moon: Wait Bob...we're not all set.
Bob: Sir?
Moon: See Bob...I need a car.
Bob: A car?
Moon: Yes...this car looks quite good so I'm afraid I'm going to have to steal your car.
Bob: Are you fuc*ing nuts, buddy? Do you know who you're fuc*ing with?

SENATOR MOON POINTS THE 9MM AT BOB.

Bob: What the , man!?
Moon: You see, Bob...I need these guns for a reason.
Bob: What?
Moon: I'm going to use them to kill Jack Iverson.
Bob: Oh you're ing whacked, pal...you're a nut....I knew I should have listened to my mother and not voted for you!
Moon: Ya see, Bob...I've never killed anyone before in my life.
Bob: Come on man!
Moon: You're my first.
Bob: NOOOOO!!!!

SENATOR MOON UNLOADS THE ENTIRE 9MM INTO BOB. BOB SCREAMS AS HE IS SHOT DOWN BY A BARRAGE OF 18 BULLETS, KILLING HIM. THE GUN JACKS ITSELF BACK. MOON DROPS ONE MAGAZINE, PUTS IT IN HIS POCKET AND GRABS ANOTHER. HE RELOADS THE GUN, PUTTING AN EXTRA BULLET UP THE PIPE. HE LOOKS AROUND. NOTHING. NOTHING BUT GRAY SKIES AND WHITE SNOW, WITH THE MAJOR EXCEPTION BEING THE POOL OF BLOOD SURROUNDING BOB.

Moon: (to himself) Bob...Bob...Bob...18 bullets...quite a nifty weapon, Bob.

MOON PUTS THE HOLSTER ON AROUND HIS ARMS AND PUTS THE 9MM IN IT. HE THEN STRAPS ON THE ANKLE HOLSTER WITH THE .38 ON HIS LEG. HE GRABS BOB'S BLOODY BODY AND PUTS IT IN THE TRUNK. HE GETS IN THE CAR AND DRIVES OFF.

END SCENE

SCENE SHIFTS TO IVERSON HOME. PRESIDENT-ELECT IVERSON IS WEARING A WHITE DRESS SHIRT WITH THE FIRST TWO BUTTONS UNDONE, AND A BLACK BLAZER JACKET. JEANNE IVERSON AND RACHEL, DRESSED UP, WALK UP TO HIM.

Rachel: Dad, how come you aren't coming to Grandma and Grandpa's with us?
Iverson: I'm the President-elect now, Rachel...I'm a busy guy.
Jeanne: Well...you haven't gone for years so you must have been the President-elect for our entire marriage. (she winks)
Iverson: You guys have fun.
Jeanne: We'll be back around eight o'clock or so.

AGENT ROSCOE AND TEXX STAND BY THE DOOR AS RACHEL AND JEANNE LEAVE.

Iverson: You guys can "chill".
Roscoe: Sir, our job is to be alert at all times.
Iverson: Nothing to worry about tonight. Once the Senator's done meeting with me, we'll be off to more family gatherings and then it's Christmastime!

SCENE SHIFTS TO MOON DRIVING DOWN DARK ROAD IN THE CAR. HE IS CLEARLY ANGRY AND SHAKEN. HE JUST MURDERED A MAN AND STOLE HIS VEHICLE. HE IS NOW ON THE WAY TO THE HOME OF THE PRESIDENT-ELECT. THE RAGE CONTINUES TO BUILD.

END SCENE

[Reaganfan]

SCENE OPENS AS A 2019 MERCURY MILAN PULLS UP TO THE IVERSON RESIDENCE. SENATOR MOON, BROWN TRENCH COAT WITH SUIT ON UNDER IT, STEPS OUT OF THE VEHICLE. PRESIDENT-ELECT IVERSON HOPS DOWN THE STAIRS TO THE DOOR.

Texx: Sir...we should-
Iverson: Ah...don't worry about, Ray. It's just Senator Moon. Hey Chris, how are you doing?

SENATOR MOON WALKS UP TO IVERSON AND SHAKES HIS HAND.

Moon: Well sir...it's...the first time we have been face to face since the debate.
Iverson: (chuckles) I'm glad about that, you killed me in those debates.
Moon: (chuckles)
Iverson: Well come in, come in! You want some coffee or something?
Moon: Sure, a cup of coffee would be nice.
Iverson: How do you take it?
Moon: Some cream.
Iverson: Got it.

IVERSON RUNS IN KITCHEN, MOON FOLLOWS BEHIND.

Moon: You still make yourself coffee?
Iverson: (laughs) Sure, why not? I may be the President-elect...but I am still capable of making my own coffee.
 
MOON, STIFF AND WOODEN, WALKS AROUND IVERSON'S KITCHEN.

Iverson: Senator...take off your jacket...relax.

IVERSON POURS MOON SOME COFFEE AND HANDS HIM THE CUP AND CREAM.

Moon: So...where's the wife and daughter?
Iverson: Ah, they're at my inlaws. We're going to my parent's house around eight.
Moon: Can I ask you something?
Iverson: Sure.
Moon: Did you think you could win?
Iverson: For a while I thought it was possible...but the leads you had on me were so huge...I thought I was done.
Moon: I saw a newspaper that read "MOON DEFEATS IVERSON".
Iverson: (chuckles) Dewey defeats Truman?
Moon: I guess so.
Iverson: Yeah, well...those debates were something. Infact, after those debates I knew that I was finished. I still have trouble adjusting to it. I mean...I even heard rumors you wrote your inaugural address.
Moon: (pause) Just a bit of it.
Iverson: Wow...crazy how things turn out. That's politics, I guess.
Moon: No....that's just my luck.

IVERSON AND MOON STAND IN THE KITCHEN FOR A MOMENT.

Moon: Can we go to your office to discuss some matters?
Iverson: Of course...but there isn't much furniture left in there. (chuckles)

IVERSON AND MOON WALK UP THE STAIRCASE TO THE SECOND FLOOR OFFICE.

[Reaganfan]

This is suspenseful.

Yep...and I have even more story ideas to write after this one.

[Reaganfan]

PRESIDENT-ELECT IVERSON CLOSES THE DOOR TO HIS OFFCE AND SITS BEHIND HIS DESK. SENATOR MOON WALKS UP TO THE DESK.

Iverson: You can have a seat if you like, Senator.
Moon: I have something else in mind.

AT THAT MOMENT, MOON SWIFTLY PULLS A 9MM AUTOMATIC OUT OF HIS HOLSTER, HIDDEN BEHIND HIS SUIT JACKET. HOLDING IT AT IVERSON, THE TWO MEN LOOK SQUARELY AT EACHOTHER, MOON'S FACE FULL OF ANGER, IVERSON'S FACE FULL OF SHOCK. IVERSON STANDS FACING MOON.



Iverson: Chris? What are you doing?
Moon: Defeating you.
Iverson: I don't understand.
Moon: Listen to me, Iverson. You took everything from me. EVERYTHING.
Iverson: I didn't.
Moon: (YELLS) SHUT UP! YOU LISTEN TO ME NOW, JACK!
Iverson: Alright...alright, Chris.
Moon: Everything was perfect. Karen and I were the most ideal couple. We were as madly in love then as we where when we got married. We made love every single day...and if we couldn't for some reason...we made it up. (chuckles) We were madly in love. Then...five years ago...a blizzard...alot like this one we're seeing outside tonight...

IVERSON AND MOON LOOK AT EACHOTHER, THE GUN STILL POINTED AT IVERSON.

Moon: When they found her car, it was buried under a seven foot snowdrift. The jaws of life opened up that frozen car and found...
Iverson: Chris. I know what happened. I can only imagine the pain you must have felt.
Moon: (chuckles) The pain? That's right, Iverson. There was pain. Pain that I could cover with only one thing...

BEAT

Moon: ...POWER.

MOON AND IVERSON BEGIN PACING AROUND THE OFFICE. MOON CONTINUES TO POINT THE GUN DIRECTLY AT IVERSON.

Moon: You see, Iverson. After I lost Karen...my children and my work were the only things that mattered to me. I took every available slot I could with the press...I created a centrist record...I did everything I could to make me the heir apparent for the Democrats.
Iverson: So why not run four years ago?
Moon: I knew the President would be hard to beat...so I sat it out. Let the left wing loons fill the field. The primary campaign alone with that liberal field of candidates basically made Republicans salivate and sealed the President's re-election. I knew...if I held out just four years...I could run a stunning campaign. A campaign that would sweep the country. And YOU, YOU IVERSON, took that from me.
Iverson: I'm just a politician, Senator.
Moon: DON'T GIVE ME THAT, JACK. YOU STOLE WHAT WAS RIGHTFULLY MINE....AND IT WAS THE ONLY THING I HAD LEFT.

IVERSON AND MOON LOOK AT EACHOTHER. IVERSON LEANS ON HIS DESK AND BUMPS THE CATCH ON THE BRACELET AGENT TEXX GAVE HIM. HE THEN BUMPS THE BUTTON. DOWNSTAIRS, AGENT TEXX HEARS A BEEPING NOISE IN HIS EARPIECE. HE WALKS OVER TO AGENT ROSCOE.

Texx: I'll be right back, Ros.
Roscoe: Alright, Ray.

BACK IN THE OFFICE UPSTAIRS, MOON IS GETTING MORE AND MORE ANGRY.

Moon: This is it Iverson. The final campaign.

MOON GOES TO SHOOT.

Iverson: WHAT DO YOU THINK IS GONNA HAPPEN, CHRIS?

MOON LOWERS THE WEAPON.

Iverson: You pull that trigger, Hank Quinn is the President-designate, and my work goes on. As for you, if you made it past the agents alive...you would be disgraced in a trial as the killer of a President-elect.
Moon: You really wanna try and a test a guy with a ing gun in your face, Jack?
Iverson: (YELLING) You're no different than Booth or Oswald, Moon...you're SCREWED UP IN YOUR ING MIND!
Moon:  you, IVERSON!

MOON GOES TO SHOOT JUST AS AGENT TEXX LEAPS THROUGH THE DOOR ONTO SENATOR MOON. AGENT TEXX TRIES TO GET THE GUN OUT OF MOON'S HAND. PRESIDENT-ELECT IVERSON DUCKS AND MOVES BEHIND THE THE DESK UNDER THE ORDERS OF AGENT TEXX.

Texx: (screaming) GUN! MR. PRESIDENT STAY DOWN!

THE GUN FIRES TWICE IN THE AIR. MOON PUNCHES AGENT TEXX AND GETS UP WITH THE GUN. HE AIMS IT AT IVERSON, BUT TEXX PUSHES HIS ARM. THE SHOT GOES INTO PRESIDENT-ELECT IVERSON'S
SHOULDER. MOON SLAMS THE GUN INTO AGENT TEXX'S FACE, KNOCKING HIM OUT. JUST THEN, AGENT ROSCOE RUNS THROUGH THE DOOR. MOON FIRES ONE BULLET THAT GOES STRAIGHT THROUGH AGENT ROSCOE'S HEAD, KILLING HIM INSTANTLY.

MOON, SWEATING AND BEAT UP, RISES POINTING THE GUN AT IVERSON.

Iverson: (holding bleeding shoulder) More agents will be coming, you know.
Moon: Yeah...driving to a secluded home with a ing blizzard outside? Not in time for you, Iverson. Say goodbye.

MOON GOES TO SQUEEZE THE TRIGGER ON IVERSON WHEN SUDDENLY A BULLET GOES STRAIGHT THROUGH MOON'S RIGHT LEG. AGENT TEXX HAS SHOT HIS WEAPON AT MOON. MOON SCREAMS IN
PAIN, POINTS HIS GUN AT TEXX WHEN IVERSON JUMPS ON HIM. MOON AND IVERSON SCUFFLE ON THE FLOOR. AGENT TEXX IS LAYING WITH BLOOD POURING FROM HIS FACE. HE CAN'T SQUEEZE ANOTHER SHOT WITH IVERSON IN THE LINE OF FIRE. IVERSON GRABS THE GUN...BUT MOON SQUEEZES THREE SHOTS OFF. ONE STRIKES AGENT TEXX IN THE CHEST AND HE DROPS HIS WEAPON.

IVERSON SEES THIS AND LEAPS FOR TEXX'S GUN. MOON RUNS OUTSIDE THE OFFICE JUST AS IVERSON FIRES THREE SHOTS AT HIM, MISSING.

Moon: CAN'T GET ME JACK!
Iverson:  you, Moon! You son of a bitch!

MOON IS STANDING BEHIND A STAIR POST OUTSIDE THE UPSTAIRS OFFICE DOORWAY. HE FIRES SEVERAL SHOTS IN THE DOORWAY, IVERSON DUCKS BEHIND THE DOOR. MOON DROPS THE MAGAZINE AND RELOADS THE 9MM.

Moon: You know, Jack...I've got 17 bullets here with you're name on each one.
Iverson: That's funny, Chris...I've got a bunch of rounds too...all aiming for your ass.
Moon: Always like a ing cowboy, Jack.

MOON RUNS OUT FROM BEHIND STAIR POST AND FIRES A BARRAGE OF BULLETS THROUGH THE DOORWAY SCREAMING. IVERSON JOLTS OUT FROM THE DOORWAY AND FIRES A SINGLE SHOT THAT
PIERCES THROUGH MOON'S GUT. MOON FALLS DOWN THE STAIRS AND DROPS HIS GUN. HE LANDS ON HIS BACK AGAINST SEVERAL PACKED BOXES. IVERSON WALKS DOWN THE STAIRS APPROACHING A GUT-SHOT MOON.

Moon: (laughs with blood pouring from his wound and out of his mouth) Anything you wanna say to me, Iverson?
Iverson: Yeah...a little something you're in denial about, Senator.
Moon: (chuckles and reaches for .38 in ankle holster) What's that, Jack?
Iverson: I BEAT YOU.

JUST THEN, PRESIDENT-ELECT IVERSON UNLOADS TEN BULLETS STRAIGHT INTO MOON'S CHEST KILLING HIM. THE SOUND OF SIRENS CAN BE HEARD QUICKLY APPROACHING THE PRESIDENT-ELECT'S HOME. IVERSON LOOKS DOWN AT THE BODY OF SENATOR MOON.

END SCENE

[Reaganfan]

Mel Gibson and Nick Nolte?

Shhhh!

[Reaganfan]

SCENE OPENS, DECEMBER 25TH, CHRISTMAS DAY, WITH NEWSREPORT

Reporter: A shocking development for the President-elect this Christmas day. Last night, Senator Christopher Moon of Pennsylvania, the former rival of President-elect Iverson entered the Iverson residence in Duluth, Minnesota for a secret scheduled meeting with the President-elect. Apparently, Moon pulled a gun on the President-elect and attempted to assassinate him. In a remarkable exchange of gunfire between the President-elect and Senator Moon, the Senator was killed by the President, and we also understand that one secret service agent, Peter Roscoe was killed. Two men, one of them the President-elect, are resting comfortably in the local hospital here in Duluth. We under stand the President-elect suffered a gunshot wound to his shoulder and is in stable condition, and secret service agent Ray Texx suffered one gunshot wound to the chest and is also in stable condition, we understand he had on a bulletproof vest.

TELEVISION SHUTS OFF. PRESIDENT-ELECT IVERSON SITS IN THE HOSPITAL ROOM, A PRIVATE ROOM ON AN UPPER FLOOR OF THE HOSPITAL. WIFE JEANNE IVERSON SITS NEXT TO HIM.

Jeanne: Jack...there are going to be lots of questions.
Iverson: Of course, I know that sweetie. Like how many shooters and how many shots. (chuckles)
Jeanne: (chuckles) More like...was President-elect Iverson right in shooting Senator Moon. Did he use excessive force?
Iverson: We'll just tell the press, I used everything I had.

IVERSON AND JEANNE LOOK AT EACHOTHER AND KISS IN HOSPITAL ROOM. SECRET SERVICE AGENT RAY TEXX WALKS THROUGH THE DOOR, FACE BEAT UP WITH BANDAGES ON.

Iverson: HOLY COW! RAY!
Texx: Merry Christmas, sir.
Iverson: Jeanne, Texx here saved my life...more than once last night.
Texx: Just part of my job, sir. It's unfortunate about Agent Roscoe, though.
Iverson: Yes...I already called his widow and expressed my deepest sorrow but admiration for his service. Nothing will ever be the same for her.
Texx: I think things will be a little shaky for EVERYONE for a while, sir. Senator Moon had serious issues.
Jeanne: The man was mental!
Iverson: No...no...Jeanne. The man was very sane. He just reacted in the wrong fashion. When he and I were ducked behind banisters and boxes and doors, exchanging gunfire...I realized how terrible battle is..how terrible war is. But I also realized that there is still war and battle...and in order to achieve peace...sometimes war is necessary. When those bullets were flying last night...I realized that there are still good guys and bad guys...and sometimes you have to take charge or else the bad guy will win. Let the press and public think what they want...but when Moon reached for his weapon at the bottom of the stairs last night...I...I didn't hesitate. Not for a moment.
Texx: It takes one tough man to go through all that and survive, sir. You're gonna make one hell of a President.

TEXX AND IVERSON SHAKE HANDS. TEXX WALKS OUT OF THE HOSPITAL ROOM, AS HE LEAVES, SEVEN SECRET SERVICE AGENTS STAND OUTSIDE THE DOOR. IVERSON TURNS ON THE TELEVISION AND FINDS A CHRISTMAS CONCERT. HE HEARS A SONG.

"Someday all our dreams will come to be
Someday in a world where men are free
Maybe not in time for you and me
But someday at Christmastime"

Iverson: Merry Christmas, Jeanne.
Jeanne: Merry Christmas, Mr. President.

THE END

[Reaganfan]

This story was the plot I had in my head since December 2003. The ending was always the same in my mind, with a shootout between Iverson and Moon (the names were always the same too...for five years) and Iverson killing Moon.

The next story will begin soon. Look for it. "HAIL TO THE HOSTAGE" about the President and a hostage standoff in the Oval Office.

[Reaganfan]

This story was the plot I had in my head since December 2003. The ending was always the same in my mind, with a shootout between Iverson and Moon (the names were always the same too...for five years) and Iverson killing Moon.

The next story will begin soon. Look for it. "HAIL TO THE HOSTAGE" about the President and a hostage standoff in the Oval Office.

Will that one be rated-R like this one, or NC-17 like the last one?

HAHA not sure yet!

[Reaganfan]

This story was the plot I had in my head since December 2003. The ending was always the same in my mind, with a shootout between Iverson and Moon (the names were always the same too...for five years) and Iverson killing Moon.

The next story will begin soon. Look for it. "HAIL TO THE HOSTAGE" about the President and a hostage standoff in the Oval Office.

Will that one be rated-R like this one, or NC-17 like the last one?

HAHA not sure yet!

Well done, by the way.  I'm looking forward to the next one.

Thanks. You go and look back at "Cordell for President" and you'll see how strong the relationship between Iverson and his wife was, and how he mentions "what he went through" four years earlier.