Talk Elections

Presidential Elections - Analysis and Discussion => Election What-ifs? => Topic started by: Yates on December 17, 2006, 12:18:28 AM



Title: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 17, 2006, 12:18:28 AM
2000 Presidential Election

Republican Primary
After a strong victory in the Iowa Caucuses, Texas Governor George W. Bush is defeated in an upset by Arizona Senator John McCain in the New Hampshire Primary.  However, after a solid margin of victory in South Carolina, Governor Bush attains significant momentum, which earns him the Presidential nomination.  He selects personal friend and Pennsylvania Governor Tom Ridge as his running mate.

Democratic Primary
Though initially fearing defeat, Vice President Al Gore sweeps through all fifty states during the primaries against far-left candidates former Senator Bill Bradley and Senator Paul Wellstone.  He accepts his nomination in front of a united convention.  He selects Massachusetts Senator John Kerry as his running mate.

General Election
The Bush/Ridge ticket, masterminded by Karl Rove, quickly portrays the Gore/Kerry ticket as too liberal for mainstream America.  Vice President Gore becomes the target of several attack ads which focus on controversies in his past, including illegal fundraising from his White House office, and his proclamation that he invented the internet.  Senator Kerry does little to help the ticket.  Instead, he too becomes the focus of several attack ads. 

Gallup Poll
9/1/2000
Bush/Ridge: 51%
Gore/Kerry: 40%

The debates between Bush and Gore seem to be seen as near ties by the American public, with a slight preference being given to Gore.  In the Vice-Presidential debate, Tom Ridge comes out as the widely perceived winner.

Although Gore works earnestly to close the gap before Election Day, the brilliant Bush/Ridge campaign by Karl Rove is far too strong.

Results:

(
)

Electoral Vote
Bush/Ridge: 342
Gore/Kerry: 196

Popular Vote
Bush/Ridge: 53%
Gore/Kerry: 44%
Nader/LaDuke: 2%

President-elect Bush and Vice-President-elect Ridge take office in January.





Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 17, 2006, 12:33:56 AM
Bush/Ridge: 2001-2005

()()

The Bush/Ridge Administration has a smooth beginning.  The President is able to garner bi-partisan support for his No Child Left Behind Act and has a generally positive relationship with Congress.

CNN Poll
April 20, 2001
Bush Approval Rating
Approve: 61%
Disapprove: 37%
Unsure: 2%

On September 11th, 2001, terrorists attack the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon outside Washington, D.C.  The nation reacts in shock.  President Bush immediately travels to New York City in order to attempt to emotionally lead the nation in healing, while Vice President Ridge remains in Washington, D.C. in order to produce a comprehensive policy for the United States government to deal with terrorism.

In December of 2001, the United States begins bombing raids of the Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.  In January of 2002, ground troops begin to disperse throughout the Afghan mountains with the intent of finding and capturing Osama bin Laden. 

Back at home, President Bush is enjoying immensely high approval ratings.

New York Times Poll
January 23, 2002
Bush Approval Rating
Approve: 82%
Disapprove: 17%
Unsure: 1%

In the summer of 2002, the Bush Administration announces its plan to search for and eliminate terrorist cells in the United States, designed primarily by Vice President Ridge.  Within the following year, dozens of terrorist cells are discovered and eliminated.

In response to the administration's success in preventing terrorism, the economy soars.  The stock market has returned to normal trading and is steadily rising. 

In December 2002, President Bush announces that his administration has concluded that Iraqi President Saddam Hussein was behind the 9/11 attacks.  Later that month, Congress votes to authorize the use of force against Iraq.

(To be continued)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Reaganfan on December 18, 2006, 11:51:39 PM
So far so good, but don't put in the Saddam behind 9/11 part.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Dr. Cynic on December 19, 2006, 01:38:37 AM
So far so good, but don't put in the Saddam behind 9/11 part.

What difference is it to you, Naso?... This is Yates' story.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: YRABNNRM on December 19, 2006, 07:08:57 AM
So far so good, but don't put in the Saddam behind 9/11 part.

What difference is it to you, Naso?... This is Yates' story.

9/11 is Naso's thing.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: adam on December 19, 2006, 09:05:46 AM
Fairly interesting story, obviously has a smidge of a pro-Bush spin on it, but interesting none-the-less.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CPT MikeyMike on December 19, 2006, 10:26:56 PM
Hey Yates...I hope you keep this up.

I'd like to see what happens doen the road.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 19, 2006, 10:29:34 PM
There will be another update this evening.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Soaring Eagle on December 19, 2006, 10:45:43 PM
How did the 2002 midterms play out?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 19, 2006, 11:01:28 PM

I had forgotten to include that in the first update; I apologize.

The midterms were similar to real life, but with larger Republican gains.  All Congressional leadership is the same.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 19, 2006, 11:24:22 PM
Bush/Ridge: First Term (continued)

()

In March of 2003, President Bush announces that military operations in Iraq have begun.  The same night, CNN reports that Iraqi anti-aircraft missiles have destroyed three United States Air Force planes. 

The following day, Saddam Hussein declares war on the United States.  Four bombers from the Iraqi military are sent to bomb United States military camps in Kuwait.  Hundreds of soldiers are killed.  In response, President Bush orders the commanders on the ground to "destroy Baghdad."

In Operation Vengeful Thunder, the United States Air Force drops dozens of bombs across the city of Baghdad, destroying many Iraqi government buildings, but also resulting in the deaths of many civilians.

In the United States, Election 2004 is beginning to heat up.  President Bush has announced that he will run for re-election, but he has yet to confirm that Vice President Ridge will remain on his ticket.  On the Democratic side, former Vice President Gore has announced that he will not be running, while his running mate, John Kerry, has declared his candidacy, along with Senator John Edwards, House Minority Leader Dick Gephardt, Congressman Dennis Kucinich, Senate Minority Leader Tom Daschle, Vermont Governor Howard Dean, and Georgia Governor Roy Barnes.  At this point, most media coverage is focused on the Iraq War, and not on the election.

The Iraq War continues to proceed poorly.  The Secretary-General of the United Nations, Kofi Annan, led a group of over one hundred countries in condemning the "unjustified and inexcusable actions of the United States military."  Apparantly frustrated with the lack of diplomatic cooperation before the war, Secretary of State Colin Powell quietly resigns, soon replaced with diplomat and prominent neoconservative Robert Zoellick.

MSNBC Poll
April 17th, 2003
Presidential Approval Rating
Approve: 41%
Disapprove: 56%
Unsure: 3%
Iraq War Approval Rating
Approve: 29%
Disapprove: 62%
Unsure: 9%

On April 20th, 2006, United States ground forces capture Saddam Hussein and sons from Baghdad and bring them to Kuwait to be held in a military detention facility.  Saddam's capture brings the approval rating of both the President and the war slightly up.

Des Moines Register
Iowa Caucus Poll
May 10th, 2003
Gephardt: 20%
Daschle: 16%
Edwards: 11%
Barnes: 6%
Kerry: 5%
Dean: 2%
Kucinich: 1%

In June of 2003, Saddam's government is virtually eliminated, and ground forces begin to secure the city of Baghdad.

On July 10th, 2003, Vice President Ridge announces that he will fill out the remainder of his term as Vice President, but will not be running on a ticket with President Bush.  President Bush first offers the Vice Presidential spot to former Missouri Senator John Danforth, but Danforth respectfully declines.  Instead, Bush asks a relative unknown.

On July 21st, 2003, President Bush announces his choice for running mate: the wife of a family friend, conservative author, political talk show host, and former government agency director:

Lynne Cheney.

More to come.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 20, 2006, 09:47:55 AM
Disclaimer

The events described in this fiction are not necessarily the desires of the author.  This fiction has been and is being written free from political bias.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: AndrewTX on December 20, 2006, 11:15:41 AM
OOhhh, it's looking good.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CPT MikeyMike on December 20, 2006, 02:12:29 PM
I admit, I don't like the way the military is being played out here but nevertheless, I found the story to be very interesting though unrealistic.

I'm looking forward to see how your 2004 election turns out.  Keep it up!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 20, 2006, 03:25:21 PM
I admit, I don't like the way the military is being played out here but nevertheless, I found the story to be very interesting though unrealistic.

I'm looking forward to see how your 2004 election turns out.  Keep it up!

As I noted above, the events described here do not represent my own opinions or wishes.  I have enormous respect for the military as well as your service to our country.  This story is merely to entertain, and certainly does not reflect the honor and gallantry that the true military has.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 20, 2006, 05:28:14 PM
I must note one small detail before posting the next update tonight.  In this fiction, Roy Barnes was re-elected Governor of Georgia in 2002 against Sonny Perdue.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CPT MikeyMike on December 20, 2006, 05:37:09 PM
I admit, I don't like the way the military is being played out here but nevertheless, I found the story to be very interesting though unrealistic.

I'm looking forward to see how your 2004 election turns out.  Keep it up!

As I noted above, the events described here do not represent my own opinions or wishes.  I have enormous respect for the military as well as your service to our country.  This story is merely to entertain, and certainly does not reflect the honor and gallantry that the true military has.
Hey Brother: I know you're doing it for entertaining and I think you are doing a great job on this.  Keep it up! :)

One question: Did Jeffords still switch parties in June of '01?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 20, 2006, 05:43:40 PM
I admit, I don't like the way the military is being played out here but nevertheless, I found the story to be very interesting though unrealistic.

I'm looking forward to see how your 2004 election turns out.  Keep it up!

As I noted above, the events described here do not represent my own opinions or wishes.  I have enormous respect for the military as well as your service to our country.  This story is merely to entertain, and certainly does not reflect the honor and gallantry that the true military has.
Hey Brother: I know you're doing it for entertaining and I think you are doing a great job on this.  Keep it up! :)

One question: Did Jeffords still switch parties in June of '01?

Thank you.

And yes, he did.  However, the Republicans regain the majority after the 2002 midterm elections.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 20, 2006, 06:11:04 PM
Election 2004: Part I

In the second half of 2003, Iraq has gone to chaos.  An insurgency fired up seemingly overnight, and it has become fairly ordinary to have hundreds of troops killed in one day.  The war has become extraordinarily unpopular with the American people, with only 12% approving.

Because of his frustration with the Iraq War, retired N.A.T.O. Supreme Commander General Wesley Clark announces that he will challenge President Bush in the Republican primary.  "I can no longer stand to see my party support the President who started this moronic war," says Clark. 

MSNBC Poll
Republican Primary
November 12th, 2003
Bush: 57%
Clark: 30%

Meanwhile, the Democratic nomination appears up for grabs.  Dick Gephardt continues to hold a narrow lead in Iowa polls, but Tom Daschle has been establishing a solid lead in New Hampshire.  Roy Barnes has surprised political analysts by surging to a solid second place in polls in both states.  Edwards, Kerry, Dean, and Kucinich are all in the single digits. 

In December of 2003, Barnes announces that he will remove all troops from Iraq within one month upon taking office.  In the two weeks after this statement, both Kucinich and Dean end their bids for the nomination and endorse Barnes, who surges ahead in Iowa polls.

On the Republican side, Senator Chuck Grassley and Congressman Jim Nussle are actively campaigning for the President in Iowa, and the polls show that their work is paying off.

Des Moines Register
Iowa Caucus - Republican
December 20th, 2003
Bush: 66%
Clark: 29%

CAUCUS NIGHT

Early on the night of the Iowa Caucuses, George W. Bush appears to hold an insurmountable lead.  At 9:34 P.M., he is declared the winner.

Iowa Caucus
Republican
()
[X] Winner
65.29%

As the night progresses, Georgia Governor Roy Barnes, who, like another former Georgia Governor, was once written off as an also-ran, maintains a solid lead.

By 11:19 P.M., it is over.

Iowa Caucus
Democratic
()
[X] Winner
42.73%

Dick Gephardt placed second.  As he labeled Iowa as a "must-win" state, he ends his Presidential bid the following day.  Tom Daschle placed third, following by John Edwards.  John Kerry, who placed last out of the major candidates, announces that, if he does not come in third place or higher in the New Hampshire Primary, he will leave the race.

Stay tuned for Election 2004: Part II, coming either tonight or tomorrow, with Part III coming shortly thereafter.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: YRABNNRM on December 20, 2006, 06:40:15 PM
This is great. Please keep it going!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Josh/Devilman88 on December 20, 2006, 08:00:55 PM
Good job! Keep it coming.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 20, 2006, 08:40:04 PM
Election 2004: Part II will be posted by 11:00 P.M. EST.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 20, 2006, 09:22:37 PM
Election 2004: Part II

The day after the Iowa Caucuses, Dick Gephardt announces that he will be ending his Presidential bid.  In a somber press conference, Gephardt says that he will be making an endorsement for the primary in the coming weeks. 

In a similar press conference, Senator John Edwards announces that he will be suspending his campaign indefinitely.  Campaign insiders suspect that Edwards may be waiting until after the New Hampshire Primary to make an endorsement, although he is rumored to prefer Barnes over the other remaining candidates.

On the Republican side, General Wes Clark gives a charismatic speech after his Iowa defeat.  "Over a third of Republicans voted against George W. Bush!  We will continue this campaign to represent those in our party who haven't had a voice and we will be victorious!"

President Bush immediately travels to New Hampshire, where he is joined by Governor Craig Benson and Senators Judd Gregg and John Sununu to begin his campaign.

In the days following the Iowa Caucuses, Tom Daschle begins to see his formerly solid lead in New Hampshire slide.

University of New Hampshire Poll
Democratic Primary
February 1st, 2004
Daschle: 43%
Barnes: 39%
Kerry: 12%

A poll for Republicans shows a tightening race.

University of New Hampshire Poll
Republican Primary
February 1st, 2004
Bush: 55%
Clark: 39%

Meanwhile, in Iraq, soldiers are having a very difficult time crushing the insurgency.  In January alone, 3,487 United States troops were killed.  Mass protests begin to form in front of the White House and the Capitol Building.  Approval of the war is down to a mere 9%, and President Bush's approval is down to 30%, only 59% of Republicans approving.

The economy is also suffering.  Since the war began, the stock market has slowed rapidly, with the economy in a constant state of recession.  Addressing this issue, Senator Daschle states that, "With his idiotic handling of the Iraq War, the President has put Americans in danger.  I'm not talking about physical danger.  I'm talking about the danger of starving, of living on the streets, and of not getting a quality education."

Feeling compelled to directly address this issue, President Bush gives an address to the nation in early February.  In the address, Bush announces that, because of the enormous death toll of the war, he will begin to withdraw troops in April, and will cooperate with the United Nations and regional Middle Eastern nations to hand over control of security forces.  Upon this announcement, his approval rating climbs by 10% in one night.

New Hampshire Primary

Early in the evening, President Bush has a very large lead, which he maintains through the night.  At 8:39 P.M., he is declared the winner.

New Hampshire Primary
Republican Results
[X] George W. Bush: 67.84%
Wesley Clark: 30.59%
Other: 1.57%

The Democratic Primary leader changes periodically between Tom Daschle and Roy Barnes for the entire evening.  By 1:00 A.M., Barnes has the tiniest of margins.  With 99% of the precincts reporting, the winner is projected at 2:37 A.M.

New Hampshire Primary
Democratic Results
[X] Roy Barnes: 44.36%
Tom Daschle: 43.25%
John Kerry: 10.63%
Other: 1.76%

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Roy Barnes emerges from the New Hampshire Primary as the undisputed frontrunner.  The following day, John Kerry leaves the race, and endorses Barnes.  One week later, Tom Daschle does the same, as does John Edwards.

Wes Clark also ends his bid, citing "a brighter opportunity to save this country."

On March 25th, 2004, Ralph Nader announces that he will not be running for President as an Independent, and urges all far-left candidates to refrain from doing so, saying, "Roy Barnes is the best chance this nation has of electing a leader who will reverse the tremendous damage this President has done."

On April 2nd, 2004, at a Democratic unity rally, presumptive Democratic nominee Roy Barnes announces his selection for running mate.

"When choosing who to select, I had a few traits in my mind.  I needed someone who had experience serving America.  I needed someone who I could get on well personally.  I needed someone who shared my beliefs.  But most of all, I needed someone who is willing to stand up and say and do what is right, even when all odds are against him.

I am proud to announce that joining me in this fight as the Democratic Party Vice-Presidential candidate will be General Wesley Clark."

ELECTION 2004: PART III - COMING SOON.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Colin on December 20, 2006, 09:27:59 PM
I'm guessing America ceases to exist after 2016 in this scenario? ;)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 20, 2006, 09:28:42 PM
ELECTION 2004

THE REPUBLICAN TICKET
For President - George W. Bush
For Vice President - Lynne Cheney

()()

THE DEMOCRATIC TICKET
For President - Roy Barnes
For Vice President - Wesley Clark

()()


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 20, 2006, 09:31:33 PM
I'm guessing America ceases to exist after 2016 in this scenario? ;)

Oh, no, I merely do not wish to write a story based solely on fiction. ;)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Colin on December 20, 2006, 09:37:37 PM
I'm guessing America ceases to exist after 2016 in this scenario? ;)

Oh, no, I merely do not wish to write a story based solely on fiction. ;)

Those are the most fun to write though. :P


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 20, 2006, 09:38:42 PM
I'm guessing America ceases to exist after 2016 in this scenario? ;)

Oh, no, I merely do not wish to write a story based solely on fiction. ;)

Those are the most fun to write though. :P

Maybe I'll give it a try. :)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on December 20, 2006, 09:40:07 PM
John Kerry, who placed last out of the major candidates, announces that, if he does not come in third place or higher in the New Hampshire Primary, he will leave the race.

New Hampshire Primary
Democratic Results
[X] Roy Barnes: 44.36%
Tom Daschle: 43.25%
John Kerry: 10.63%
Other: 1.76%

....

John Kerry leaves the race, and endorses Barnes.

OMG FLIP-FLOPPER HE CAME IN THIRD BUT LEFT ANYWAY >:(

;)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 20, 2006, 09:41:21 PM
Haha.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CPT MikeyMike on December 20, 2006, 09:55:38 PM
Hey Yates...Very nice...I can see some similarities with the 1992 election minus a Perot-like candidate (Perhaps a Ron Paul in 2004?).

I'm really enjoying your story. We haven't had a good fiction timeline in quite a while (Winfield - where are you? :)) and you're doing a great job!  

I'm thinking of doing my own timeline again...of course not to challenge you! :)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 20, 2006, 10:55:51 PM
Let's have some fun.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
This preview is acceptable for all audiences.

“THIS IS GREAT.” – ANDREW BERGER

“SO FAR, SO GOOD.” – MIKE NASO

“OOOHHH, IT’S LOOKING GOOD.” – ANDREWCT

After the grueling primary process. . .

. . .comes the general election.


On the political battlefield, there are no civilians.

On the political battlefield, there is no mercy.

On the political battlefield, there is no surrender.


THE REPUBLICAN

()

“YOU WANT FOUR MORE YEARS, YOU’RE GONNA GET IT!”

THE DEMOCRAT

()

“The future of America is at stake.  Which path do you want?”

A PATH TO BE DETERMINED. . .

A CHOICE TO BE MADE. . .

AND AN OCTOBER SURPRISE THAT CHANGES EVERYTHING.


America: 2000-2016
Election 2004: Part III

Coming soon to a What-if forum near you.



Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: AndrewTX on December 21, 2006, 08:45:34 AM
Wheeee!!! Looking good so far.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: George W. Hobbes on December 21, 2006, 12:48:19 PM
Viva Bush! Viva Bush! Viva Bush!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 21, 2006, 03:32:17 PM
Election 2004: Part III will be finished with tonight, and may require more than one post.  After the completion of Part III, Election Night 2004 will begin, and I am considering doing it "real time."


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Colin on December 21, 2006, 03:51:03 PM
I am considering doing it "real time."

24 style, maybe some explosions see Roy Barnes torturing some people, you could even get Polish actor Arnold Vosloo to play an Arab terrorist like he always does.

What do you mean by "real time" though?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 21, 2006, 03:56:01 PM
I am considering doing it "real time."

24 style, maybe some explosions see Roy Barnes torturing some people, you could even get Polish actor to play an Arab terrorist like he always does.

What do you mean by "real time" though?

Haha.

What I mean is this:

Election coverage starts at 7:00 P.M. with the first two states being called.  In real time, I would call Indiana and Kentucky at 7, the other states at their respective times, basically replicating actual election night coverage.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on December 21, 2006, 05:17:54 PM
I am considering doing it "real time."

24 style, maybe some explosions see Roy Barnes torturing some people, you could even get Polish actor to play an Arab terrorist like he always does.

What do you mean by "real time" though?

Haha.

What I mean is this:

Election coverage starts at 7:00 P.M. with the first two states being called.  In real time, I would call Indiana and Kentucky at 7, the other states at their respective times, basically replicating actual election night coverage.

If you want to make it really real time, you could simulate really close states by having it too close to call when polls close and then have the states get called later.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 21, 2006, 05:46:33 PM
I am considering doing it "real time."

24 style, maybe some explosions see Roy Barnes torturing some people, you could even get Polish actor to play an Arab terrorist like he always does.

What do you mean by "real time" though?

Haha.

What I mean is this:

Election coverage starts at 7:00 P.M. with the first two states being called.  In real time, I would call Indiana and Kentucky at 7, the other states at their respective times, basically replicating actual election night coverage.

If you want to make it really real time, you could simulate really close states by having it too close to call when polls close and then have the states get called later.

Yes, I was planning to do that.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 21, 2006, 08:59:42 PM
Election 2004: Part III will be posted tonight, before 11.  Tomorrow, Election Night will probably be done real time.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 21, 2006, 10:48:22 PM
Election 2004: Part III

Both the Republican and Democratic conventions are viewed as successful.  The Republican convention focused on national security, with constant references to September 11th.  The Democratic convention focused on the failures of the Bush Administration, as well as policies Governor Barnes would pursue as President.

September 10th
Rasmussen Reports
Nationwide Poll
(
)
Bush Solid: 99
Bush Total: 153
Tossup: 23
Barnes Total: 362
Barnes Solid: 183

On September 13th, President Bush, in a press conference in the Rose Garden, announces that, after discussing the matter with military commanders, he will begin a full withdrawl from Iraq, to be completed by January 1st, 2006.  After this is announced, his approval rating climbs 15% overnight, and political analysts anticipate a shift in the polls.

Barnes responds strongly.  “The timing of this announcement is purely political,” he says.  “The President did not factor either the welfare of our brave troops or the security of our great country in the decision to make this withdrawl.  He’s behind in the polls, and he’s using desperate measures to get ahead.”

In early September, the Bush/Cheney campaign begins running ads across the nation depicting September 11th.  In the ad, Bush says, “Never forget those who died on September the 11th.  And never forget that the threat of another terrorist attack is here today.  If, God forbid, terrorists were to strike our nation again, I want to be the President that, once again, provides the strong leadership needed to bring our country through.”

The ad is decried by the Barnes/Clark campaign as being the epitome of scare tactics and as using the suffering of 9/11 for political gain.

In the first Presidential debate, focused on foreign policy, President Bush once again focuses on terrorism, while Governor Barnes sharply criticizes Bush’s handling of the Iraq conflict.  Snap polls after the debate find that Americans are split nearly evenly when asked who won the debate.  Political analysts attribute this to the fact that Barnes’ attacks on the Iraq War are no longer as effective after the President’s announcement of a full withdrawl within a year.

In the Vice Presidential debate, Lynne Cheney uses her skills as a former political debate show host and viciously attacks Barnes’ record as Governor of Georgia.  Because of this, Wes Clark finds himself having to spend most of his speaking time defending Barnes rather than attacking the Bush record.  Polls after the debate suggest that Lynne Cheney solidly won.

In the town hall Presidential debate, both Bush and Barnes appear likeable and conversational, and both effectively and earnestly answer the questions posed to them.  Polls show that Barnes came out of the debate as the perceived winner, however.

In the final Presidential debate, focusing on domestic issues, Roy Barnes clearly is effective in attacking the state of the economy under President Bush.  Barnes also takes the time to unveil some of his detailed policies for expanding health care coverage and reforming the education system.  Barnes is regarded by a vast majority as the clear winner of this debate.

October 10th
Rasmussen Reports
Nationwide Poll
(
)
Bush Solid: 138
Bush Total: 176
Tossup: 79
Barnes Total: 283
Barnes Solid: 183

However, everything is about to change with, perhaps, the most unwelcome October surprise in history.

(continued below)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 21, 2006, 11:19:45 PM
Notice: The events described below do not represent the desires nor the opinions of the author.

THE OCTOBER SURPRISE

October 23rd, 2004
Bloomington, Minnesota


()

At 11:13 A.M., when the mall was filled with shoppers, an unknown terrorist, disguised as a janitor, left one ton of explosives in the mall’s hub.  At 11:16 A.M., the explosives detonated.  A huge fireball swept up the mall’s main staircase, sending it crashing to the ground.  The sounds of screaming and shattering glass echoed across the entire mall as the fire bell rang, sending alarmed shoppers frantically running outside.  Police and fire rescue personnel were on the scene within minutes.

By late afternoon, the death toll was reported to be 231, mostly women and children, and the number was expected to rise.  That evening, all major television and radio networks dedicated their programming to mourning.

All campaign activities were suspended.  Both candidates flew at once to Bloomington to mourn on the site.  That night, at 10:30 P.M., President Bush gave a speech near the destroyed part of the mall.  In the speech, the President urged the nation to mourn with the families of those who were killed.  He also initiated a call for revenge.  “Yes, we must mourn,” said Bush.  “But we must also be more determined than ever before to rise up and show our true strength.”

Political polling the following day showed an overwhelming surge in the President’s approval rating.  In a written statement, Governor Barnes announced that he will not campaign for one week out of respect for those who are in the mourning process.  In the statement, he asked President Bush to do the same.

The Bush/Cheney campaign, two days after the tragedy, began running television spots in several states in which Bush was seen giving his speech at the Mall of America.  State polls showed Bush surging.  Political analyst James Carville stated, “President Bush’s message has been all about terrorism.  I think this attack proves that his message is an important one, and I think it’ll carry him to victory.”

One week later, Roy Barnes and Wes Clark hit the campaign trail.  In a widely publicized speech, Barnes said, “Yes, we mourn.  Yes, we need to keep ourselves safe.  From the moment I’m sworn into office, I will do whatever it takes to find those responsible for this and have them killed.  I will not hesitate to wait for world approval.  I will use overwhelming force against nations which harbor these terrorists, and I will not stop until I know that you, the American people, are safe.”

With days until the election, Bush has closed the gap.  On the day before the election, the race is up in the air.

November 1st, 2004
Rasmussen Reports
Nationwide Poll
(
)
Bush Solid: 163
Bush Total: 217
Tossup: 93
Barnes Total: 228
Barnes Solid: 183

“This election is up in the air.” – James Carville

“At this point, it’s anyone’s guess.” – Joe Trippi

“Tomorrow, the American people will vote for strength in a dangerous world.” – George W. Bush

“It’s time to have an end to the fear and begin a new era of hope.” – Roy Barnes


ELECTION NIGHT 2004
TOMORROW


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on December 22, 2006, 12:08:04 AM
With days until the election, Bush has closed the gap.  On the day before the election, the race is up in the air.

November 1st, 2004
Rasmussen Reports
Nationwide Poll
(
)
Bush Solid: 163
Bush Total: 217
Tossup: 93
Barnes Total: 228
Barnes Solid: 183

This doesn't really seem that realistic.  After September 11, Bush's approval ratings (in the real world) rocketed up to above 90%.  I think that the incumbent president would win in a walk if there really was a terrorist attack literally a week before election day.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 08:11:33 AM
I see your point.  Before 9/11, the President's approval rating was in the 40%-50% range, and rose roughly 40% after 9/11.  In this scenario, the President's approval rating is roughly 30%.  I do not believe that the approval rating would take such a large jump if a terrorist attack had happened before.


Title: America: 2000-2016 :: 2004 Exit Polls
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 04:05:50 PM
EXIT POLLS

Which issue was most important to you when voting today?
Terrorism: 36%
Iraq: 31%
Economy: 18%
Social Issues: 10%
Other: 5%

How recently did you decide which candidate to vote for?
Over one month ago: 35%
Over one week ago: 29%
Within the past week: 24%
In the voting booth: 12%

What is your education level?
Some high school: 8%
High School/G.E.D.: 19%
Some college: 13%
College degree: 35%
Master's degree: 11%
Doctorate: 6%
Professional degree: 9%


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Soaring Eagle on December 22, 2006, 04:48:02 PM
I can hardly wait. Keep up the great work!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Reaganfan on December 22, 2006, 04:57:45 PM
Keep it up!


Title: ELECTION NIGHT 2004 :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 05:14:33 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage


()

Good evening and welcome to MSNBC’s live coverage of Election Night 2004.  I’m your host, Chris Matthews.  Our panel will be joining us shortly.

This election season has been one of the most unpredictable in history.  Out of nowhere, Governor Roy Barnes came from behind to win the Iowa Caucuses and the Democratic nomination.  For his running mate, he chose the guy who challenged an incumbent President in the Republican primaries.  The race seemed like a lock until a few weeks ago when terrorists attack the Mall of America in Minnesota.  We expect this election night to be equally as unpredictable. 

Here’s how out schedule is looking for tonight:

At 7:00, the polls in Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Virginia, and Vermont close.  Out of those, Georgia, New Hampshire, and Virginia could go either way.

At 7:30, North Carolina, Ohio, and West Virginia’s polls close.  All three of those seem up for grabs tonight.

At 8:00, Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Texas.  Out of those, we’ll be watching Florida, Missouri, and Pennsylvania very closely.

At 8:30, polls in Arkansas, another close state, close.

At 9:00, polls close in Arizona, Colorado, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming close.  We’ll be watching Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, and Wisconsin all very closely.

At 10:00, Idaho, Iowa, Montana, Nevada, North Dakota, Oregon, and Utah close.  Iowa and Nevada are expected to be pretty close.

At 11:00, California, Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington ring in.  Oregon looks like it’ll be pretty close.

And at midnight, Alaska polls close.

We’re in for a long night.  After this break, we’ll here from our panel.  Stay with us.


Note: Election night will be simulated in real time.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Soaring Eagle on December 22, 2006, 05:17:54 PM
How are the Senate races shaping up at this point?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 05:51:50 PM
How are the Senate races shaping up at this point?

I was actually considering whether or not I should include this in my election night coverage.  I will say that the Democrats are faring better than they did in the real 2004 election.  I will make an official post on this after the 2004 Election.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 06:27:54 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

Matthews: Welcome back to MSNBC’s live coverage of Election Night 2004.  We’re here with our panel, who we’re going to now introduce.  Joining us are political analyst James Carville, his wife Mary Matalin, and former Congressman Steve Largent.

James, I’ll go to you first.  What are the big states in play here tonight?

Carville: Well, Chris, this election is very odd in that many states are in play that aren’t usually up for the taking.  We’ve got Roy Barnes’ home state of Georgia, the state of West Virginia, the state of Minnesota.  Then again, we’ve also got the big three – Florida, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.  There’s a swing state every hour.

Matthews: Mary, what information do you think we can get from the exit polls?

Matalin: Well, I think it’s obvious that the plurality of Americans care more about terrorism than any other issue.  I forgot what the poll said exactly, but it was something over one third of Americans who listed terrorism as their top priority, and that’s very good for Bush.  As for the other polls, they don’t make too much of a difference in my view.

Matthews: James, I see you shaking your head.

Carville: My wife’s wrong again.  Sure, the plurality said terrorism was most important, but the majority said something else was most important.  The vast majority of those who listed Iraq or the economy as their most important issue are going for Barnes.

Matthews: Congressman Largent, how effective do you think the Republican turnout machine will be in this election?

Largent: It’s always very effective, and it will be effective in this election.  Americans care deeply about national security, and the Republican Party has a message of keeping us safe.  Americans will realize that when they vote.

Matthews: Alright, we’re going to begin calling the first states in a few minutes.  I want a final prediction from all of you.  James, you first.

Carville: I think terrorism is helping Bush, but I think too many people made up their minds before the attack, so I’ll say Barnes by two percent in the popular vote with two hundred eighty something electoral votes.

Matthews: Mary, your prediction.

Matalin: I disagree with my husband.  Too many Americans care too deeply about terrorism.  I say Bush wins by five in the popular vote and with over three hundred electoral votes.

Matthews: Congressman Largent.

Largent: I think President Bush will win solidly.

Matthews: Thank you to our panel, and stay tuned – we begin calling our first states in about thirty minutes.  Don’t go away.



Title: ELECTION NIGHT 2004 :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 07:00:30 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

It’s 7:00 and we can begin our first round of projections for the night.  But before we do that, let’s review the map we’ll be using to calculate the results.

(
)

As the night progresses, this map will be filled in with red and blue.  When we project that a state is won by President Bush, we’ll color it red.  When a state is projected for Governor Barnes, we’ll color is blue.  Whoever gets 270 electoral votes first wins.  We’ll keep track of the electoral vote count.  Also, if a state is too close to call, we won’t be able to call it right away.

Let’s get right to it.


At this time, we are able to call the state of Indiana for President Bush.

PRESIDENT
Indiana

()
[X] George W. Bush

We can now call the state of Kentucky for the President.

PRESIDENT
Kentucky

()
[X] George W. Bush

Also for the President at this time is South Carolina.

PRESIDENT
South Carolina

()
[X] George W. Bush

The first state we can call for Governor Barnes is Vermont.

PRESIDENT
Vermont

()
[X] Roy Barnes

The states of Georgia, New Hampshire, and Virginia are too close to call at this time.

Let’s see what this does to our electoral map here.

(
)

At this time, President Bush has 27 electoral votes, and Governor Barnes has 3.  For Barnes supporters, don’t be alarmed, and Bush supporters, don’t be too pleased.  These states were expected to go their respective ways.  When we come to a major state, we’ll let you know.


Title: ELECTION NIGHT 2004 :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 07:30:27 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

It’s 7:30 and we have more poll closings at this time.  We can tell you right now that both Ohio and West Virginia are too close to call at this time.  However, we are able to make a projection in the state of North Carolina.

PRESIDENT
North Carolina

()
[X] George W. Bush

President Bush has won the state of North Carolina, and that his brought his electoral vote total up to 42.  Our updated electoral map looks like this:

(
)


Title: ELECTION NIGHT 2004 :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 07:51:26 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

At this time, we can now call the state of Virginia for President Bush.

PRESIDENT
Virginia

()
[X] George W. Bush

This brings the President’s electoral vote total to 55 at this time.  Governor Barnes still has only 3 electoral votes.  The updated electoral map looks like this:

(
)

Virginia was a state that was really up in the air earlier in the election season.  However, this loss is far from fatal to the Barnes campaign.


Title: ELECTION NIGHT 2004 :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 08:13:26 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

It’s 8:00 and we have a load of states to call.

At this time, we can call the state of Alabama for President Bush.  Nothing unexpected there.

PRESIDENT
Alabama

()
[X] George W. Bush

We can also now call the state of Kansas for the President.

PRESIDENT
Kansas

()
[X] George W. Bush

Also now, we can call the state of Mississippi for Bush.

PRESIDENT
Mississippi

()
[X] George W. Bush

We can call Oklahoma for Bush.

PRESIDENT
Oklahoma

()
[X] George W. Bush

We can now call Tennessee for the President.

PRESIDENT
Tennessee

()
[X] George W. Bush

And, finally, we can project that President Bush has won his home state of Texas.

PRESIDENT
Texas

()
[X] George W. Bush

We also have plenty of states to call for Roy Barnes at this time.

We can call the state of Connecticut for Barnes.

PRESIDENT
Connecticut

()
[X] Roy Barnes

We can project that Barnes will win Delaware.

PRESIDENT
Delaware

()
[X] Roy Barnes

Roy Barnes will win the District of Columbia, not surprisingly.

PRESIDENT
District of Columbia

()
[X] Roy Barnes

Barnes will win the state of Illinois.

PRESIDENT
Illinois

()
[X] Roy Barnes

Maine, and both of its Congressional districts, are going for Barnes.

PRESIDENT
Maine

()
[X] Roy Barnes

Maryland is going for Barnes.

PRESIDENT
Maryland

()
[X] Roy Barnes

Massachusetts is fulfilling its role as a traditional blue state and going for Barnes.

PRESIDENT
Massachusetts

()
[X] Roy Barnes

And, finally, the state of New Jersey is being carried by Barnes.

PRESIDENT
New Jersey

()
[X] Roy Barnes

Let’s take a look at our updated electoral map:

(
)

President Bush has now secured 128 electoral votes, nearly half of the way to the 270 needed.  Governor Barnes now has 78 electoral votes.

The states of Georgia, New Hampshire, Ohio, West Virginia, Florida, Missouri, and Pennsylvania are currently too close to call.  We’ll let you know if we get anything new on these states.



Title: ELECTION NIGHT 2004 :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 08:15:01 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

We now have a major projection.  We can project that Roy Barnes will win the state of Pennsylvania.

PRESIDENT
Pennsylvania

()
[X] Roy Barnes

This isn’t too big of a surprise, as Barnes led here in the polls consistently throughout the election season.  However, this is one of the “big three” states that usually determines the election.

Let’s see what this does to our electoral map:

(
)

Governor Barnes now has 99 electoral votes, behind President Bush’s 128.  The gap is closing.


Title: ELECTION NIGHT 2004 :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 08:30:48 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

It’s 8:30 and the polls have now closed in Arkansas.  At this time, the state is too close to call.


Title: ELECTION NIGHT 2004 :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 08:35:09 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

At this time, we have a projection to make.  The state of West Virginia is now projected to go for Governor Roy Barnes.

PRESIDENT
West Virginia

()
[X] Roy Barnes

This is a historically Democratic state, but George W. Bush won it in 2000.  Roy Barnes has won it back for the Democrats.

This state brings Barnes over the 100 mark with 104 electoral votes in our electoral map.


(
)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: True Democrat on December 22, 2006, 08:41:39 PM
Do you have any of the state's %'s?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 08:42:47 PM
Do you have any of the state's %'s?

I will post those at the completion of the election.  If you would like to know the percentages for one or two specific states, I would be happy to provide.  Also, later in the evening, when there are only a few states remaining, the precincts will come in one by one, and you will see the percentages.


Title: ELECTION NIGHT 2004 :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 09:05:25 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

It’s 9:00 and we have plenty of states to call.

We can project a winner in the state of Louisiana.  President Bush has won the state.  No surprise there.

PRESIDENT
Louisiana

()
[X] George W. Bush

President Bush has also won the state of Nebraska and all of its Congressional districts.

PRESIDENT
Nebraska

()
[X] George W. Bush

The state of South Dakota is also going for the President.

PRESIDENT
South Dakota

()
[X] George W. Bush

And, finally, Lynne Cheney’s home state of Wyoming is going for her ticket.

PRESIDENT
Wyoming

()
[X] George W. Bush

Governor Barnes, in the mean time, has won the state of New York.

PRESIDENT
New York

()
[X] Roy Barnes

We are also projecting the state of Rhode Island for Barnes.

PRESIDENT
Rhode Island

()
[X] Roy Barnes

The states of Arizona, Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, and Wisconsin are all too close to call at this time.

Let’s see how this adjusts our electoral map.


(
)

The electoral count is very close.  President Bush has 148 electoral votes locked up.  Governor Barnes has 139.


Title: ELECTION NIGHT 2004 :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 09:10:05 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

We can now project the state of Arizona for President Bush.

PRESIDENT
Arizona

()
[X] George W. Bush

This is not too much of a surprise.

President Bush’s electoral vote total is now increased to 158.


(
)


Title: ARKANSAS PROJECTION :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 09:16:53 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

We are now able to project a winner in Arkansas.  That state is going for President Bush.

PRESIDENT
Arkansas

()
[X] George W. Bush

As you know, Arkansas is the home state of the Clintons and of Democratic Vice Presidential nominee Wesley Clark.  The Barnes campaign hoped to pick this one up, but it seems they’ll be a bit disappointed.

This raised President Bush’s electoral vote total to 164.


(
)


Title: MINNESOTA PROJECTION :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 09:26:46 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

It’s time to make an important projection.  The state of Minnesota is will be won by President George W. Bush.

PRESIDENT
Minnesota

()
[X] George W. Bush

Minnesota is a traditionally Democratic state, but after the terrorist attack at the Mall of America last month, and President Bush’s visit to the state, it appeared to turn sharply for the President.  It is one of the states where terrorism was the most important issue, and that played well for the President.

President Bush has now locked up 174 electoral votes.  Governor Barnes has 139.


(
)


Title: MICHIGAN PROJECTION :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 09:30:23 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

We can now project that Governor Barnes will win the state of Michigan and it’s 17 electoral votes.

PRESIDENT
Michigan

()
[X] Roy Barnes

This isn’t the biggest surprise of the night, but it is still good news for Barnes.

Barnes’ total in the electoral vote has gone up to 156, still behind President Bush’s 174.


(
)


Title: COLORADO PROJECTION :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 09:34:46 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

We can now project that President Bush has narrowly won the state of Colorado and its nine electoral votes.

PRESIDENT
Colorado

()
[X] George W. Bush

This brings Bush’s total in the electoral college up to 183.

(
)


Title: MISSOURI PROJECTION :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 09:42:48 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

We have a major projection now.  President Bush will win the state of Missouri.

PRESIDENT
Missouri

()
[X] George W. Bush

As you may know, if you are a big-time political junkie like me, Missouri is what is known as a “bellwether” state, in that it usually votes with the winner of the election.  Of course, this doesn’t mean that President Bush has been re-elected just yet, but it is obviously being celebrated at Bush headquarters.

With this win, President Bush’s electoral vote total is brought up to 194.


(
)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on December 22, 2006, 09:47:50 PM
I AM RELEASING A VIDEO

IT IS CALLED "LOOSE CHANGE PT. 2" AND CLEARLY SHOWS THAT BUSH ORCHESTRATED THE OCTOBER SURPRISE IN ORDER TO WIN THE ELECTION

I DO THIS BY DRAWING RANDOM CIRCLES AND ARROWS OVERTOP PHOTOS AVAILABLE TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC AND PUTTING THESE PICTURES INTO A MONTAGE COMBINED WITH OMINOUS MUSIC FROM MY FAVORITE MOVIE


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 09:48:29 PM
Haha.


Title: ELECTION NIGHT 2004 :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 10:00:24 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

It’s 10:00, and we have several projections to make.

President Bush, as expected, has won the state of Idaho.

PRESIDENT
Idaho

()
[X] George W. Bush

Bush has won the state of Montana, which was closer earlier in the campaign.

PRESIDENT
Montana

()
[X] George W. Bush

Bush has won the state of North Dakota.

PRESIDENT
North Dakota

()
[X] George W. Bush

And, finally, President Bush has won the state of Utah.

PRESIDENT
Utah

()
[X] George W. Bush

None of this was unexpected.

The states of Iowa and Nevada are too close to call at the time, along with Georgia, New Hampshire, Florida, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

These wins bring President Bush’s electoral total above 200 to 209, needing only 61 more electoral votes to win the election.


(
)


Title: Re: ELECTION NIGHT 2004 :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on December 22, 2006, 10:06:16 PM
President Bush’s electoral total ... [is] 209 [and he needs] only 261 more electoral votes to win the election.

I think there's a slight typo in there, unless the Democrats rigged the election to require 470 electoral votes for a Republican to win. :)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 10:08:32 PM
Thank you, Gabu.  I have corrected that error. :)


Title: OHIO PROJECTION :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 10:15:29 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

We now have a major projection.  President Bush has won the state of Ohio, a critical state, and its 20 electoral votes.

PRESIDENT
President

()
[X] George W. Bush

Ohio is one of the “big three” states which sometimes determine elections.  This is a huge win for the Bush campaign any way you slice it.

President Bush’s electoral vote total is now 229, only 41 away from a victory.  Governor Barnes has 156.


(
)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 10:47:39 PM
I have a few out-of-storyline announcements.

I would like to first say that there will be no recounts of any sort.  The winner will be announced before 1:00 A.M.  The candidate who does not win will concede defeat.

Secondly, I will be leaving tomorrow for a family vacation to Quebec City and will not return until the second of January, after which I will continue the storyline, if you wish.  If you wish for me to continue the storyline after tonight, please inform me.

Third, starting at approximately midnight, the race will be determined by five states currently in the "too close to call" category.  There will be updates every ten minutes with the current results of these states.

Fourth, full election results will be posted when I return from my trip.

I do hope that you are enjoying this real-time election night.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CPT MikeyMike on December 22, 2006, 10:56:07 PM
If you wish for me to continue the storyline after tonight, please inform me.


Absolutely! :)

I didn't get the see the actual 2004 election because I was in the field.  It took my wife to call me cell (in tears) that President Bush won. She didn't vote for him, I did though.  Anyhow, this is the closest thing to an election night for me in years and I appreciate it very much! Election nights are like the Super Bowl for me!

Anyhow, have a safe and happy trip and great job on this timeline! :)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 10:57:10 PM
If you wish for me to continue the storyline after tonight, please inform me.


Absolutely! :)

I didn't get the see the actual 2004 election because I was in the field.  It took my wife to call me cell (in tears) that President Bush won. She didn't vote for him, I did though.  Anyhow, this is the closest thing to an election night for me in years and I appreciate it very much! Election nights are like the Super Bowl for me!

Anyhow, have a safe and happy trip and great job on this timeline! :)

Thank you, MikeyMike.  I am glad that you are enjoying this.  I hope I don't keep you in too much suspense over the next two hours, however. :)


Title: ELECTION NIGHT 2004 :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 10:59:36 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

It’s 11:00, and we have some good news for the Barnes campaign, which hasn’t had the best night so far.

We can call the state of California for Governor Barnes.  The biggest state in the Union is reliably Democratic, and this was expected.

PRESIDENT
California

()
[X] Roy Barnes

We can call the island state of Hawaii for Barnes.

PRESIDENT
State

()
[X] Roy Barnes

We can also call the state of Washington for Governor Barnes.  While not a major swing state, Washington’s usually fairly close, and it is unusual for it to be called right away.

PRESIDENT
Washington

()
[X] Roy Barnes

Add Oregon to the “too close to call” list.

These victories bring Governor Barnes’ electoral vote total to 226, just three short of President Bush’s total.  This election is close to the end.


(
)


Title: GEORGIA PROJECTION :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 11:15:00 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

We now have some very good news for the Barnes campaign.  Governor Roy Barnes has won his home state of Georgia.

PRESIDENT
Georgia

()
[X] Roy Barnes

Georgia voters evidently approved of their Governor’s promotion.  Two years ago, Barnes won re-election in the state of Georgia, and now he has won it in a Presidential race.

For the first time this evening, Barnes has taken the lead in the electoral college, with 241 electoral votes, only 29 away from the Presidency.


(
)


Title: OREGON PROJECTION :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 11:23:50 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

We are now ready to project Roy Barnes the winner in the state of Oregon.

PRESIDENT
Oregon

()
[X] Roy Barnes

This expected victory gives Barnes a lock on at least 248 electoral votes, 22 away from the White House.

(
)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Reaganfan on December 22, 2006, 11:24:38 PM
If you wish for me to continue the storyline after tonight, please inform me.


Absolutely! :)

I didn't get the see the actual 2004 election because I was in the field.  It took my wife to call me cell (in tears) that President Bush won. She didn't vote for him, I did though.  Anyhow, this is the closest thing to an election night for me in years and I appreciate it very much! Election nights are like the Super Bowl for me!

Anyhow, have a safe and happy trip and great job on this timeline! :)

Why was she crying?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CPT MikeyMike on December 22, 2006, 11:30:35 PM
If you wish for me to continue the storyline after tonight, please inform me.


Absolutely! :)

I didn't get the see the actual 2004 election because I was in the field.  It took my wife to call me cell (in tears) that President Bush won. She didn't vote for him, I did though.  Anyhow, this is the closest thing to an election night for me in years and I appreciate it very much! Election nights are like the Super Bowl for me!

Anyhow, have a safe and happy trip and great job on this timeline! :)

Why was she crying?
Well Buddy, I married a left wing lady and she's always hated Preisdent Bush.  Don't ask how get make it work.  She's a good cook and I'm well.....good at other things! :)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Reaganfan on December 22, 2006, 11:34:03 PM
If you wish for me to continue the storyline after tonight, please inform me.


Absolutely! :)

I didn't get the see the actual 2004 election because I was in the field.  It took my wife to call me cell (in tears) that President Bush won. She didn't vote for him, I did though.  Anyhow, this is the closest thing to an election night for me in years and I appreciate it very much! Election nights are like the Super Bowl for me!

Anyhow, have a safe and happy trip and great job on this timeline! :)

Why was she crying?
Well Buddy, I married a left wing lady and she's always hated Preisdent Bush.  Don't ask how get make it work.  She's a good cook and I'm well.....good at other things! :)

But she was honestly balling?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CPT MikeyMike on December 22, 2006, 11:36:35 PM
If you wish for me to continue the storyline after tonight, please inform me.


Absolutely! :)

I didn't get the see the actual 2004 election because I was in the field.  It took my wife to call me cell (in tears) that President Bush won. She didn't vote for him, I did though.  Anyhow, this is the closest thing to an election night for me in years and I appreciate it very much! Election nights are like the Super Bowl for me!

Anyhow, have a safe and happy trip and great job on this timeline! :)

Why was she crying?
Well Buddy, I married a left wing lady and she's always hated Preisdent Bush.  Don't ask how get make it work.  She's a good cook and I'm well.....good at other things! :)

But she was honestly balling?
She was upset...it sounded like she crying. I was with my maneuver commander when I got the call. The commander (who is an @$$hole) and I were so happy for the Bush win I think it made my wife more upset.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Colin on December 22, 2006, 11:39:21 PM
If you wish for me to continue the storyline after tonight, please inform me.


Absolutely! :)

I didn't get the see the actual 2004 election because I was in the field.  It took my wife to call me cell (in tears) that President Bush won. She didn't vote for him, I did though.  Anyhow, this is the closest thing to an election night for me in years and I appreciate it very much! Election nights are like the Super Bowl for me!

Anyhow, have a safe and happy trip and great job on this timeline! :)

Why was she crying?
Well Buddy, I married a left wing lady and she's always hated Preisdent Bush.  Don't ask how get make it work.  She's a good cook and I'm well.....good at other things! :)

But she was honestly balling?
She was upset...it sounded like she crying. I was with my maneuver commander when I got the call. The commander (who is an @$$hole) and I were so happy for the Bush win I think it made my wife more upset.

What's your rank if you don't mind me asking?


Title: NEVADA PROJECTION :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 11:41:26 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

We can now project that President Bush is the winner in Nevada.

PRESIDENT
Nevada

()
[X] George W. Bush

This brings his electoral vote total up to 234, 36 away from re-election.

(
)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CPT MikeyMike on December 22, 2006, 11:43:02 PM
What's your rank if you don't mind me asking?

Forgive me but I am laughing my ass off about that...

CPT stands for Captain. I was promoted on 02JAN06 in Iraq.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Colin on December 22, 2006, 11:44:15 PM
What's your rank if you don't mind me asking?

Forgive me but I am laughing my ass off about that...

CPT stands for Captain. I was promoted on 02JAN06 in Iraq.

Sorry I didn't know that you had incorporated your rank into your name.

Happy almost one year anniversary on your promotion by the way.


Title: ELECTION NIGHT :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 11:58:19 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

Polls in Alaska have now closed, and we can project President Bush the winner.

PRESIDENT
Alaska

()
[X] George W. Bush

This brings Bush to 237 electoral votes, 33 away from re-election.

(
)


Title: FIVE STATES LEFT :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 22, 2006, 11:59:24 PM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

There are five states left which will determine the winner of the 2004 Presidential election.  We’re going to take a look at the results so far in each of them.

In New Hampshire, with 95% of precincts reporting, President Bush leads with 49.87% to Governor Barnes’ 49.54%.  The lead here has shifted all night, and it’ll keep us up way past our bedtimes.

In New Mexico, with 82% of precincts reporting, President Bush has a small lead of 50.11% to Governor Barnes’ 48.96%. 

In Wisconsin, Barnes has a miniscule lead with 49.45% to Bush’s 49.41% with 91% of precincts reporting.  This is just one example of how every vote counts.

In Iowa, President Bush is leading narrowly.  With 85% of precincts reporting, Bush has 50.02%, while Barnes has 49.17%.

Now Florida’s the big state everybody’s watching.  With 96% of precincts reporting, Barnes is leading barely with 49.64%, while Bush is very close behind with 49.33%.  It seems that 2000 may repeat itself.

However, we have had very few reports of voting errors, so maybe we’ll be spared a recount.  We’ll give you another update very soon.


Electoral Vote
Barnes: 248
Bush: 237


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Reaganfan on December 23, 2006, 12:02:39 AM
I have to say Yates, this is a good nailbiter for a forum what-if race. Keep it up!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 23, 2006, 12:08:40 AM
I have to say Yates, this is a good nailbiter for a forum what-if race. Keep it up!

Thank you, Mike.


Title: FOUR STATES LEFT :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 23, 2006, 12:09:01 AM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

We are now ready to project the state of New Hampshire.  New Hampshire will be won by President George W. Bush, who carried it in 2000.

PRESIDENT
New Hampshire

()
[X] George W. Bush

With this victory, President Bush now has 241 electoral votes locked up.

The electoral map now looks like this:


(
)

Four states remain to determine the Presidency.

In New Mexico, with 90% of the precincts reporting, President Bush leads with 50.21% to Barnes’ 49.12%. 

In Wisconsin, President Bush has taken a very tiny lead with 94% of the precincts reporting.  He currently registers in with 49.48% of the vote compared to Governor Barnes’ 49.46%.

In Iowa, with 92% of the precincts reporting, President Bush has increased his lead to 50.49% to Governor Barnes’ 49.08%.

In the big one, Florida, President Bush has taken a narrow lead.  With 97% of the precincts reporting, Bush has 49.44% of the vote to Barnes’ 49.21%. 

This race is anyone’s guess.  We’ll keep you updated.


Electoral Vote
Barnes: 248
Bush: 241


Title: THREE STATES LEFT :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 23, 2006, 12:16:09 AM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

We are now ready to project the result in another state.  We can safely say that President Bush has won the state of Iowa, a Gore state four years ago.

PRESIDENT
State

()
[X] George W. Bush

And, would you believe it, we now have a 248-248 tie in the electoral college.  This election is a nail-biter, a photo finish.

(
)

There are now three states that will determine the Presidency – Wisconsin, New Mexico, and Florida.

In Wisconsin, the lead has switched again.  With 96% of the precincts reporting, Governor Barnes has 49.51% of the vote, while President Bush has 49.38%.

In Florida, Governor Barnes has retaken his earlier lead, and now has 49.37% of the vote, as compared to Bush’s 49.32%, with 98% of the precincts reporting.

Electoral Vote
Barnes: 248
Bush: 248


Title: TWO STATES LEFT :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 23, 2006, 12:22:52 AM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

We are now prepared to declare President Bush the winner in the state of New Mexico.

PRESIDENT
New Mexico

()
[X] George W. Bush

This victory gives Bush 253 electoral votes and a lead in the electoral college count.

(
)

Two states remain – Wisconsin and Florida: the states that will determine the winner of the 2004 Presidential election.

In Wisconsin, the lead has switched yet again.  With 98% of the precincts reporting, President Bush has 49.50% of the vote, while Roy Barnes has 49.41%.

In Florida, the vote has tightened ever so slightly.  Barnes still leads.  He has 49.36%, while Bush has 49.33%. 

It’s the finale, folks.


Electoral Vote
Bush: 253
Barnes: 248


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CPT MikeyMike on December 23, 2006, 12:23:24 AM
If I could pull a Tim Russert and state the only state that will determine the presidency is....

FLORIDA
FLORIDA
FLORIDA
FLORIDA

That was all I could remember back in 2000. I think it's come down to that again too!


Title: "It all comes down to this." :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 23, 2006, 12:29:07 AM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

We have a winner in Wisconsin.  The winner is President Bush.

PRESIDENT
State

()
[X] George W. Bush

This victory gives President Bush 263 electoral votes, only seven away from victory.

(
)

It all comes down to Florida, just like it did four years ago.

Right now, with 99% of the precincts reporting in Florida, Roy Barnes leads with 49.35%, with President Bush just behind with 49.33%. 

It all comes down to this.  Let’s hope that, by our next update, we know who our next President is.


Electoral Vote
Bush: 263
Barnes: 248


Title: We have a winner! : America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 23, 2006, 12:38:01 AM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

WE HAVE A WINNER.


With 99% of the precincts reporting in Florida, we are ready to project a winner.

PRESIDENT
Florida

()
[X] Roy Barnes

Roy Barnes
44th President of the United States

(
)

()

I hope that you enjoyed the 2004 Election section of this fiction as much as I enjoyed writing it.  I will return in early January to continue this timeline.  Thank you for reading.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Kevin on December 23, 2006, 12:41:13 AM
Job well done Yates!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Reaganfan on December 23, 2006, 12:54:54 AM
Good job Yates!

I will also be continuing my story, "The 2000's: The Quayle Era" over the next few days.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: YRABNNRM on December 23, 2006, 02:05:29 AM
Keep it going!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: adam on December 23, 2006, 09:21:39 AM
Very well written, Yates! I actually found myself refreshing this page hoping for updates.

Just one thing though, a couple of times you said that Florida will determine the election just like in 2000. Well, in your scenario, the 2000 election was well decided without Florida.

Aside from that, wonderful job!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Soaring Eagle on December 23, 2006, 09:47:22 AM
I look forward to the Barnes Presidency. Keep it up!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Colin on December 23, 2006, 11:15:51 AM
Good after the horrible job Bush did in this timeline, you actually made him do things worse which is hard, Barnes deserved to win.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CPT MikeyMike on December 23, 2006, 12:23:18 PM
I look forward to the Barnes Presidency. Keep it up!
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: George W. Hobbes on December 24, 2006, 03:20:18 AM
Well done Yates, brilliant work.

That said, I demand a recount!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Robespierre's Jaw on December 28, 2006, 01:24:13 AM
MSNBC Live
Election Night Coverage

WE HAVE A WINNER.


With 99% of the precincts reporting in Florida, we are ready to project a winner.

PRESIDENT
Florida

()
[X] Roy Barnes

Roy Barnes
44th President of the United States

(
)

()

I hope that you enjoyed the 2004 Election section of this fiction as much as I enjoyed writing it.  I will return in early January to continue this timeline.  Thank you for reading.

Your the man Yates great job so far. Looking forward to the Barnes Presidency.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 01, 2007, 04:38:35 PM
I have returned from my trip and will soon be continuing this.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Hash on January 01, 2007, 10:41:53 PM
One of the best electoral reporting I have ever seen! You rock!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 01, 2007, 11:58:22 PM
The 2004 Senatorial elections remained somewhat the same, though Betty Castor was elected over Mel Martinez in Florida and Erskine Bowles was victorious in North Carolina.  John Thune was elected Senator for South Dakota over token opposition, as Tom Daschle decided not to run for re-election in order to run for President.  The Senate is led by 53 Republican seats, as opposed to 46 Democratic seat, and one Democratic-affiliated Independent.  The Senate Majority Leader is Rick Santorum, who was elected after Trent Lott's controversial remarks in 2002.  The Senate Majority Whip is Jon Kyl.  The Senate Minority Leader is Dick Durbin, who beat out Harry Reid, who remains as Minority Whip.

The Republicans have a weak majority in the House of Representatives.  Dennis Hastert remains as speaker.  Tom DeLay is Majority Leader, while Eric Cantor is Majority Whip.  The Minority Leader is Steny Hoyer, who was previously Minority Whip.  The Minority Whip is Nancy Pelosi.  Dick Gephardt retired after a failed Presidential bid.

The next update shall be soon.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 02, 2007, 12:03:58 AM
Note: Senator Paul Wellstone was not killed in a plane crash in 2002.  He survived, along with all else on board, and went on to win re-election.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 03, 2007, 07:57:14 PM
The next update will be tonight.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Kevin on January 03, 2007, 07:59:58 PM

Glad to see you back Yates ,and I look forward to your update.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 03, 2007, 10:22:09 PM
The Barnes/Clark Administration

In January 2005, President Roy Barnes and Vice President Wesley Clark are sworn in.  In his inaugural address, President Barnes discusses the need for America to emerge once again as the world's moral leader.  Analysts interpret this as Barnes' intention to adopt a more internationalist foreign policy than the Bush Administration.

On his second day in office, President Barnes issues an Executive Order.  In this Executive Order, all troops are to be pulled from Iraq by January 1st, 2006.  This action is immediately applauded by almost all Democrats and many Republicans.  Only neoconservatives oppose this.

Rasmussen Reports
Barnes Approval Rating
January 25th, 2005
Approve: 67%
Disapprove: 32%
Unsure: 1%

There is an attempt made in Congress, led by Senate Majority Leader Rick Santorum and House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, to override this Executive Order.  However, the majority of Republicans vote to uphold it, causing division among the ranks of Congressional Republicans, and, as some see it, dimishing the power of the two leaders.

President Barnes, in Febraury, appoints Vice President Clark and General John Abizaid to organize an effective timeline for the withdrawl of troops.  In the plan created, the majority of troops will be redeployed by April.  However, as the troops are being pulled out of Iraq, a new threat emerges across the border.

New Iranian leader Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has announced his intentions of obtaining nuclear power for his country.  This announcement is widely interpreted as a desire to build nuclear weapons.  In a written statement, Secretary of State Richard Holbrooke says, "It would be irresponsible for the world community to allow this rogue nation to attain nuclear weapons."  In a similar statement, President Barnes says, "My administration is monitoring this threat very carefully.  We will do what we can to ensure that Iran does not get nuclear weapons."

In April 2005, President Barnes hosts a summit of world leaders in Washington.  The leaders of most of the worlds nations are invited, with notable exclusions being Fidel Castro, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Kim Jong Il, and Hugo Chavez.  In this summit, Barnes expresses his regret for President Bush's foreign policy, and says that he desires to be more of a Clinton-style internationalist leader.  The summit bodes well for America's international standing, and many of the leaders in attendance express their approval with the new President.

On the economic front, the stock market is soaring.  The housing market is rebounding.  According to Treasury Secretary Jack Lew, "America's economy is back."  Meanwhile, President Barnes has released to Congress at balanced budget, and a plan to make the American government debt free by 2012. 

For the actions in his first months in office, President Barnes is extraordinarily popular with the American public. 

Rasmussen Reports
Barnes Approval Rating
July 10th, 2006
Approve: 76%
Disapprove: 22%
Unsure: 2%

In Congress, President Barnes, Dick Durbin, and Steny Hoyer have led the Democrats in having many legislative successes, despite their minority status, due largely to the centrist ideology expoused in many of the bills, which have garnered the votes of many Republicans in Congress.  According to Senator Mike Ciresi, elected in 2000, "Democrats have a minority of the seats in the House and Senate, but we're able to control the flow of Congress as though we had a solid majority."  Senate Majority Whip Jon Kyl is not as pleased.  "We're seeing a Majority Leader who isn't keeping our coalition in line," says Kyl.

2005, so far, is a wonderful year for President Barnes and Congressional Democrats.  However, the times ahead will prove that, in politics, everything can change in a very short time span.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Coming Next
President Barnes and his allies have had a fine start, but things are about to change for the worst.  The Iraq War may be over, but another Middle Eastern country may be a new target.  Senate Republicans aren't pleased with Leader Santorum.  Things in Washington will radically change.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Soaring Eagle on January 03, 2007, 10:27:59 PM
Really fine job. Keep up the good work.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 04, 2007, 09:08:26 PM
The next update will be within two hours.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Reaganfan on January 04, 2007, 09:28:24 PM
On August 29, 2005 Hurricane Katrina hit. Will that be included in the timeline?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 04, 2007, 10:05:04 PM
On August 29, 2005 Hurricane Katrina hit. Will that be included in the timeline?

Thank you, Mr. Naso.  Yes, it shall be.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 04, 2007, 11:38:03 PM
This fiction is written purely for entertainment purposes, and does not reflect the wishes nor the opinions of its author.

Barnes/Clark :: The Turning Point

2005 has been going quite smoothly.  President Barnes is enormously popular and the Republican opposition is largely ineffective. 

Republicans in the Senate begin to speak out against their leader, Rick Santorum.  Senator Jon Kyl, the Majority Whip, says, "Santorum's simply ineffective.  He doesn't get anything done."  Senator Mike DeWine alleges, "What have we done?  We have a majority of the votes yet we're taking it from the Democrats."  Several Senate Republicans begin calling for Santorum to step down as leader, and in late July 2005, he does so.  Unanimously, Senator Jon Kyl is elected to replace him.  Senator Chuck Grassley is elected Majority Whip.

Shortly after being elected, Senate Majority Leader Kyl announces that he will be commanding a much tighter ship.  Republicans who join the Democrats in key votes will be stripped of valuable committee seats.  In early August, after being punished for voting against the Republicans on a bill finalizing troop withdrawls from Iraq, Senator Arlen Specter joins the Democratic Party, giving the Republicans only a four seat advantage.

In late August 2005, Hurricane Katrina slams into New Orleans, flooding the city and resulting in the death of thousands and the destruction of hundreds of thousands of homes.  In a statement from the White House Rose Garden, President Barnes announces that, "The federal government will be taking a back seat in the recovery efforts.  This is a job for the state and local governments."  The remark is immediately met by strong criticism, from both sides of the aisle.  Barnes backtracks his position and orders federal aid to the area.

Rasmussen Reports
Barnes Approval Rating
September 5th, 2005
Approve: 65%
Disapprove: 32%
Unsure: 3%

THE NEW WAR

On September 15th, 2005, fifty C.I.A. agents are sent across Iran to dismantle its atomic energy program, an action directly ordered by President Barnes.  The operation is a disaster; all fifty agents are killed.  Immediately, there is outcry as to why this mission was ordered.  On the left, the operation is criticized for a lack of necessity.  On the right, there are criticisms regarding the weakness of this mission.  Congressman Tom Tancredo says, "What Barnes should've done is drop a huge bomb right on Tehran."

In an Oval Office speech, President Barnes announces that, because of the Iranian government's murder of fifty American federal agents and because of the potential threat posed by a nuclear Iran, the United States would be initiating military action to remove Iran's ability to attain nuclear capacity.  On October 21st, 2005, the United States Air Force bombs sixteen strategic sites around Iran.  Four planes are shot down, but the operation is generally a success.  However, in response, Iran launches over fifty missiles at the State of Israel.

The cities of Tel Aviv, Haifa, Eilat, and Jerusalem, are all hit with missiles.  Over two hundred Israelis are killed, and one of the missiles destroyed the sacred Western Wall in Jerusalem.  Missiles also struck Israeli military bases, severely weakening the nation. 

Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon orders the launch of a nuclear weapon at Tehran.  When the bomb explodes, over 40,000 people are instantly killed.  Iran responds by launching a missile at the U.S.S. Kitty Hawk, which was on patrol in the Red Sea.  Thirty-two sailors are killed.

President Barnes is horrified by the sudden escalation of what he had intended to be a small and quick military operation.  From all ideologies, he is again being attacked.  Senator Paul Wellstone cries, "We elected Barnes to end war, not make more of it!."  Senate Majority Leader Jon Kyl says, "This is the most idiotic handling of a military conflict in our nation's history."  Kyl, along with House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, and several other prominent Republicans, calls on Barnes to resign.

Meanwhile, Syria declares war on Israel for what its President calls a, "crime against humanity."  Israeli and Syrian fighter planes soon have a prolonged battle over the Golan Heights.  Syrian ground forces invade Israel through the mountains, only to be met by Israeli tanks.  President Barnes announces that he will be proposing a cease-fire for all parties involved.  Prime Minister Sharon agrees.  However, Iran and Syria do not. 

The situation quickly evolves into a larger war, as Russia proceeds to aid Iran and Syria, providing them with weapons.  China gives financial aid to Iran.  The United Kingdom and Austrailia provide Israel with aid, and Britain declares war on Syria and Iran. 

At a cabinet meeting in November, it is quickly determined that this conflict has evolved into World War III.  Secretary of State Richard Holbrooke is sent to the United Nations to attempt to come to some temporary break in the fighting, but is quickly rejected.

Rasmussen Reports
Barnes Approval Rating
December 1st, 2005
Approve: 25%
Disapprove: 74%
Unsure: 1%

Do you trust President Barnes to lead America through World War III?
Yes: 19%
No: 77%
Unsure: 4%

On December 10th, President Barnes calls 250,000 reserve troops to active duty.  Vice President Clark is charged with preparing the war's grand strategy. 

On Christmas Day, President Barnes holds a private meeting with Vice President Clark.  In the meetings, Barnes tells Clark that he does not feel as though he is capable of leading America during this time.

-----------------------------------------------
Coming Next:
President Barnes makes a difficult decision, America struggles in the new world war, the opposition gets more fierce.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Reaganfan on January 05, 2007, 09:22:47 AM
Should have re-elected Bush LOL ;)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: SPC on January 05, 2007, 01:24:34 PM
Let me guess. During another close race, Bush retakes the White House from Barnes in 2008.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Hash on January 05, 2007, 02:31:16 PM
That's actually a good scenario for World War III. Although I think Syria will get it's ass kicked BIG TIME.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: YRABNNRM on January 05, 2007, 03:00:59 PM
Very interesting.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Colin on January 05, 2007, 03:22:25 PM
World War III would denote a war that is fought on a global scale. A couple of missiles launches, the Israelis going nuclear, and Syria invading the Golan Heights are the makings of a Middle Eastern War but not a world war. I mean I don't even see how this is such a large conflict beyond the Israeli nuclear attack, which would most likely never happen in real life I didn't see Israel nuke southern Lebanon for the Hezbollah killing about that many people in rocket attacks. If Israel uses their nuclear technology that would also mean that they would be forced to reveal that such weapons exist, which they've been trying to avoid for about 40 years.

So that's unlike. Besides the small amount of Iranian involvement, a few missiles lauched oh boy what a grand strategy, this seems to be a retake of every other Arab-Israeli War with the exception of Egyptian and Jordanian support.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 05, 2007, 03:31:26 PM
Colin, in my post, I detailed the amount of foreign nations which are getting involved.  China and Russia have been assisting Iran and the United Kingdom has declared war on Syria and Iran, for example.  I would also like to contest your assertion that Israel would not use nuclear weapons in such a scenario.  Israeli generals have hinted at doing so when questioned about the Iranian nuclear threat, and they have taken a position of ambiguity rather than denial in the past when speaking on Israel's nuclear capability.

Thank you for your objections, however.  I will try to elaborate further in my next update, which will be tonight, how the rest of the world is involved.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Colin on January 05, 2007, 03:37:27 PM
Colin, in my post, I detailed the amount of foreign nations which are getting involved.  China and Russia have been assisting Iran and the United Kingdom has declared war on Syria and Iran, for example.

I understand. That was just my opinion it's your story though.

Quote
I would also like to contest your assertion that Israel would not use nuclear weapons in such a scenario.  Israeli generals have hinted at doing so when questioned about the Iranian nuclear threat, and they have taken a position of ambiguity rather than denial in the past when speaking on Israel's nuclear capability.

Well yes it's a we do not comment on our nuclear capabilities thing but I believe that they would not retaliate to a small missile strike by Iran with a large nuclear strike since that would probably end their friendship with the few in the international community, beyond the United States, whom they still have friendly ties with. Also these nuclear weapons were not used to difuse the Iranian nuclear program but were directed against the civilian population which is not only bad PR, since then it just looks like some sort of vengence gone out of control, but it does not strategically accomplish anything.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 05, 2007, 03:43:53 PM

Those four words of your above post highlight what I am trying to depict. 


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: SPC on January 05, 2007, 04:05:30 PM
When will your next update take place?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Colin on January 05, 2007, 04:15:13 PM

Those four words of your above post highlight what I am trying to depict. 

What I was trying to say was that it would take the Israelis retaliating with a completely out of proportion response to nuke Iran. Thus it would be vengeance that has gone out of control. The Israelis, to a greater extent than Americans, are realists when it comes to military and foreign policy mostly because they have to be.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: SPC on January 05, 2007, 04:23:59 PM
It's just a fictional story about what the world would be like if Barnes was president.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 05, 2007, 04:59:36 PM

This evening.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 05, 2007, 05:00:02 PM
It's just a fictional story about what the world would be like if Barnes was president.

I am not suggesting that a Barnes Presidency would lead to such chaos.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: AndrewTX on January 05, 2007, 05:06:10 PM
Yates, this is turning out to be awsome, I can' t wait till the next update!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CPT MikeyMike on January 05, 2007, 05:34:29 PM
Nice work Yates,

I'm rooting that we kick Iran's @$$ though!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on January 05, 2007, 05:41:39 PM

Those four words of your above post highlight what I am trying to depict. 

What I was trying to say was that it would take the Israelis retaliating with a completely out of proportion response to nuke Iran. Thus it would be vengeance that has gone out of control. The Israelis, to a greater extent than Americans, are realists when it comes to military and foreign policy mostly because they have to be.

I sort of get the sense that Yates is purposefully overdramatizing things for interest's sake.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: YRABNNRM on January 05, 2007, 05:42:26 PM
World War III would denote a war that is fought on a global scale. A couple of missiles launches, the Israelis going nuclear, and Syria invading the Golan Heights are the makings of a Middle Eastern War but not a world war.

It wouldn't matter; the media are just jumping to have another World War so any large scale conflict would be called a "World War" in the papers. Just think how many more papers "World War III" would sell than "Middle East War XXXXXVIII".

Hell, just look back to July/August during the Lebannon/Isreal conflict. The media was just hoping that Iran, Syria and company would jump in so they could use their "World War" tagline.

That's just my take on the matter though.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 05, 2007, 05:45:35 PM

Those four words of your above post highlight what I am trying to depict. 

What I was trying to say was that it would take the Israelis retaliating with a completely out of proportion response to nuke Iran. Thus it would be vengeance that has gone out of control. The Israelis, to a greater extent than Americans, are realists when it comes to military and foreign policy mostly because they have to be.

I sort of get the sense that Yates is purposefully overdramatizing things for interest's sake.

Quite.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on January 05, 2007, 06:38:37 PM
World War III would denote a war that is fought on a global scale. A couple of missiles launches, the Israelis going nuclear, and Syria invading the Golan Heights are the makings of a Middle Eastern War but not a world war.

It wouldn't matter; the media are just jumping to have another World War so any large scale conflict would be called a "World War" in the papers. Just think how many more papers "World War III" would sell than "Middle East War XXXXXVIII".

Hell, just look back to July/August during the Lebannon/Isreal conflict. The media was just hoping that Iran, Syria and company would jump in so they could use their "World War" tagline.

That's just my take on the matter though.

Oh yeah, I completely forgot that Israel invading Lebanon was hailed as some as the start of World War III.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: YRABNNRM on January 05, 2007, 07:29:25 PM
Barnes is begining to remind me of another president from Georgia.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: adam on January 05, 2007, 07:32:33 PM
Barnes is begining to remind me of another president from Georgia.

I was thinking the same thing actually.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: SPC on January 06, 2007, 12:02:39 AM
you haven't updated it yet.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 06, 2007, 12:07:48 AM
2006

On January 5th, 2006, Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez announces that he will no longer be selling oil in the United States.  Several Middle Eastern nations make similar announcements.  The sudden decrease in the oil supply creates a severe economic recession.  The stock market nearly crashes on several occasions, and investor confidence is extraordinarily low in what becomes known as the "Panic of 2006."  In order to help alleviate the effects of the Panic, President Barnes taps America's oil reserves, something most Presidents have been very hesitant to do.

Meanwhile, the United Kingdom has declared war on Russia in response to Russia's continued aid to Iran and Syria.  Within weeks, Britain destroys the Russian Navy.  Russian Vladimir Putin announces, "If the attacks on my country continue, I'll give your enemies the weapon which all fear."  This is, obviously, a reference to Russia's stockpile, and the potential of a nuclear weapon falling into the hands of Islamist fundamentalists.

"I'm not the one."

In late January, President Barnes is having serious doubts regarding his ability to lead America through this World War.  In a cabinet meeting on January 25th, Barnes informs his top advisors that he is seriously considering resigning from office, and handing the responsibility of the job to Vice President Clark.

On January 28th, President Barnes, in the time slot originally slated for his State of the Union address, speaks to the American people.  In the speech, Barnes expresses regret over his quick decision to attack Iran, the spark which started the war.  "America needs a leader to bring it through this crisis," says Barnes.  "I'm not the one.  Therefore, I am resigning the Presidency effective immediately.  At the conclusion of this speech, Wesley Clark will take the oath of office and become our nation's President.  To the American people: I am sorry.  May God Bless this great nation through our darkest period."

That evening, Wesley Clark takes the oath of office.

()
Wesley Clark
45th President of the United States

---------------------------------------------
Coming Next:
How will President Clark lead our nation through this war?  Will he have more success than his predecessor?  In these dangerous times, things can change very quickly, and they will.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: adam on January 06, 2007, 12:11:41 AM
Wow. Didn't see that one coming.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: SPC on January 06, 2007, 12:17:04 AM
Who did Barnes and Clark appoint to replace O'connor and Rehnquist?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 06, 2007, 12:30:04 AM
Who did Barnes and Clark appoint to replace O'connor and Rehnquist?

I apologize for not including that.  In this scenario, both of these Justices are still on the court.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Robespierre's Jaw on January 06, 2007, 03:05:55 AM

2006

"I'm not the one."

In late January, President Barnes is having serious doubts regarding his ability to lead America through this World War.  In a cabinet meeting on January 25th, Barnes informs his top advisors that he is seriously considering resigning from office, and handing the responsibility of the job to Vice President Clark.

On January 28th, President Barnes, in the time slot originally slated for his State of the Union address, speaks to the American people.  In the speech, Barnes expresses regret over his quick decision to attack Iran, the spark which started the war.  "America needs a leader to bring it through this crisis," says Barnes.  "I'm not the one.  Therefore, I am resigning the Presidency effective immediately.  At the conclusion of this speech, Wesley Clark will take the oath of office and become our nation's President.  To the American people: I am sorry.  May God Bless this great nation through our darkest period."

That evening, Wesley Clark takes the oath of office.

()
Wesley Clark
45th President of the United States

---------------------------------------------
Coming Next:
How will President Clark lead our nation through this war?  Will he have more success than his predecessor?  In these dangerous times, things can change very quickly, and they will.


Let's hope the Clark Presidency is a good one. After all he was a General


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CPT MikeyMike on January 06, 2007, 01:35:42 PM
Wow Yates...talk about a curve ball being thrown! Very interersting.

Anyhow, I like Clark, despite his West Point education. I hope he excells in this story and kicks Iran's a$$.

I hope (in reality) he runs as an Independent in 2008.



Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 06, 2007, 07:29:31 PM
Expect the next update by midnight.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Conan on January 06, 2007, 10:03:20 PM
You should have had Barnes die in office rather than in disgrace.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 07, 2007, 12:10:17 AM
President Clark: The Beginning

President Wesley Clark's first task is to find a Vice President.  For Clark, this is an easy decision.  He selects Secretary of State Richard Holbrooke.  In the speech he gives to announce his decision, Clark states, "I am a military man, and I need a diplomat standing beside me."  Senate Majority Leader Jon Kyl says, "We need firm leadership right now, and I cannot see anything that would disqualify Secretary Holbrooke from serving as Vice President.  I will urge all Republicans in the Senate to confirm him."  Holbrooke passes through Congress within two weeks, and is promptly sworn in as Vice President.  To replace Holbrooke as Secretary of State, President Clark chooses New Mexico Governor and former United Nations Ambassador Bill Richardson.

Clark immediately puts together a three-person team, which he dubs "The Trifecta," to lead the nation through the war.  Clark himself will lead the military strategy, along with the generals on the ground.  Vice President Holbrooke will handle diplomacy, with the assistance of Secretary Richardson.  Secretary of the Treasury Jack Lew, who, as budget director, was the architect of Clintonian economic policy, will be handling the economic aspect of the war.

On March 10th, 2006, Vice President Holbrooke appears at the United Nations and addresses the General Assembly.  In his speech, he announces the formation of a new organization, the League of Democratic Nations.  "Those who join us in this war will be included in this organization," says Holbrooke.  "Those who do not join us in this war will not be allowed in for ten years.  The United States of America will not have any diplomatic or economic relations with any nation who is not a member of this organization.  Any nation interested has six months to join."

Holbrooke's announcement is followed by a rush of nations seeking to join the League.  The day following this announcement, Chinese President Hu Jintao, whose nation's economy relies on trade with the United States, announces that his nation will end all involvement in the war, will pay five billion dollars each to the United Kingdom, Israel, and the United States, and will join the League.  Many smaller nations, including Qatar and Bahrain, also join the League. 

However, there are a few notable exceptions.  Russian President Vladimir Putin announces that his nation will not join the League, saying that "this organization is just one more example of why we had the Cold War."  Also, Iran and Syria firmly announce that they will not join, along with Venezuela.  North Korea also refuses to join.

The formation of the League sparks new economic recovery.  Qatar and Bahrain announce that they will be providing the United States with several billion dollars worth of oil in the coming year, causing the stock market to rise dramatically.  Secretary Jack Lew says, "The recession is over."

The war, however, is not.  President Clark, along with many of his top advisors, is carefully planning strategy to defeat the few remaining nations which stand against the United States and allies.  Dealing with Russia is especially delicate, as the Russian government could easily provide a nuclear weapon to one of America's enemies, or a terrorist organization.  President Clark and President Putin agree to meet in Oslo, Norway, to discuss the situation, and agree to end hostility.

On April 15th, 2006, Israeli planes bomb the Syrian capital of Damascus, and Israeli tanks and ground troops invade through the Golan Heights.  Within 48 hours, President Assad surrenders, and orders the Syrian military to destroy their weapons.  On April 20th, 2006, the Israeli occupation of Syria begins.  On April 23rd, 2006, American submarines stationed in the Red Sea launch tactical nuclear missiles to strategic military sites in Iran.  American and Israeli ground troops, along with forces from the government of Iraq, surround and blockade Iran's border. 

On Cinco de Mayo, American forces lead an invasion into Tehran with the intent to capture Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.  In a strenuous journey, five American battalions march hundreds of miles through the desert, being occasionally attacked by strains of the crumbled Iranian military, to the capital city.  On May 12th, 2006, the Iranian government announces that Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has fled the nation and issues a surrender.

World War III has come to an end.

------------------------------------------------------
Coming Next:
After the war, how does the United States recover?  How will the war affect the 2006 midterm elections?  Also, a popular former President dies.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CultureKing on January 07, 2007, 12:37:40 AM
wow... I am really enjoying this, good job!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Conan on January 07, 2007, 12:59:36 AM
So we lose Iraq and then they are an ally?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 07, 2007, 01:01:01 AM
So we lose Iraq and then they are an ally?

I expected someone to inquire as to the status of Iraq.  After we left Iraq, a government was established which is friendly to the United States.  I realize that this statement is general, but were I to write about every single detail, it would take me days on end to produce one update!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Conan on January 07, 2007, 02:50:12 AM
So we lose Iraq and then they are an ally?

I expected someone to inquire as to the status of Iraq.  After we left Iraq, a government was established which is friendly to the United States.  I realize that this statement is general, but were I to write about every single detail, it would take me days on end to produce one update!
Good enough.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CPT MikeyMike on January 07, 2007, 12:11:41 PM
On Cinco de Mayo, American forces lead an invasion into Tehran with the intent to capture Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.  In a strenuous journey, five American battalions march hundreds of miles through the desert, being occasionally attacked by strains of the crumbled Iranian military, to the capital city.  On May 12th, 2006, the Iranian government announces that Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has fled the nation and issues a surrender.

World War III has come to an end.

YES!!! :)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: adam on January 07, 2007, 12:19:24 PM
Good writing, Yates! Good to see President Clark kicking some ass.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Reaganfan on January 07, 2007, 12:23:34 PM
Good writing, Yates! Good to see President Clark kicking some ass.

Yes, some good fiction for sure.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: True Democrat on January 07, 2007, 12:47:02 PM
Why did we launch nuclear missiles at Iran?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 07, 2007, 12:55:14 PM

The purpose of launching tactical nuclear missiles at Iran was to eliminate their military.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: YRABNNRM on January 07, 2007, 12:56:39 PM
Good writing, Yates! Good to see President Clark kicking some ass.

Just like how Dan Quayle was elected president?

Yes, some good fiction for sure.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: SPC on January 07, 2007, 01:01:14 PM


------------------------------------------------------
Coming Next:
After the war, how does the United States recover?  How will the war affect the 2006 midterm elections?  Also, a popular former President dies.

Is President reagan already dead, or is he yet to die?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 07, 2007, 01:15:25 PM


------------------------------------------------------
Coming Next:
After the war, how does the United States recover?  How will the war affect the 2006 midterm elections?  Also, a popular former President dies.

Is President reagan already dead, or is he yet to die?

He is already dead.  The former President that will die in the next update is either Ford, Carter, Bush, or Clinton.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 07, 2007, 01:24:36 PM


------------------------------------------------------
Coming Next:
After the war, how does the United States recover?  How will the war affect the 2006 midterm elections?  Also, a popular former President dies.

Is President reagan already dead, or is he yet to die?

He is already dead.  The former President that will die in the next update is either Ford, Carter, Bush, or Clinton.

Let me rephrase that.  In this fiction, Ford dies on the same date as in real life.  Therefore, either Carter, Bush, or Clinton will die in the next update.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Soaring Eagle on January 07, 2007, 07:25:05 PM


------------------------------------------------------
Coming Next:
After the war, how does the United States recover?  How will the war affect the 2006 midterm elections?  Also, a popular former President dies.

Is President reagan already dead, or is he yet to die?

He is already dead.  The former President that will die in the next update is either Ford, Carter, Bush, or Clinton.

Let me rephrase that.  In this fiction, Ford dies on the same date as in real life.  Therefore, either Carter, Bush, or Clinton will die in the next update.

I say it will be Clinton.

Or might it be Barnes?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 07, 2007, 09:57:41 PM
The next update will be tonight.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: True Democrat on January 07, 2007, 10:17:34 PM
This organization Clark formed sounds a little like the Pelopennesian League.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 07, 2007, 10:23:15 PM
This organization Clark formed sounds a little like the Pelopennesian League.

The thought crossed my mind.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 07, 2007, 11:39:21 PM
After the War

Rasmussen Reports
Clark Approval Rating
October 1st, 2006
Approve: 85%
Disapprove: 15%
Unsure: 0%

Clearly, President Clark has come out of World War III as an enormously popular leader.  Clark's leadership has also helped Democrats across the country. 

Gallup Poll
Generic Congressional Ballot
October 2nd, 2006
Democrat: 59%
Republican: 35%
Undecided: 6%

Now that the war is over, media has begun shifting attention to the many scandals of the Republican-led Congress.  Most media networks have become vehemently pro-Clark, which translates into a bias towards the Democrats.  However, on October 5th, 2006, one prominent Democrat is lost.

()
William Jefferson Clinton
1946-2006

Former President Clinton has died in New York City from a massive heart attack.  In a statement released by Senator Hillary Clinton, Bill died in his office at 2:05 P.M. 

President Clark immediately announces that the following week would be a national week of mourning.  All flags are flown at half-mast.  Clinton's body is flown on the 7th to lie in state in the Capital Rotunda.  The state funeral will begin on the 10th.  At his funeral, George H.W. Bush, President Clark, Bob Dole, and Al Sharpton deliver eulogies.

The death of President Clinton, combined with President Clark's performance in the war and the troubles of the Republican Congress, lead to an overwhelming Democratic victory on Election Day.  The Democrats pick up seven seats in the United States Senate, giving them a majority of 55 seats.  In the House, Democrats pick up thirty-nine seats, giving them a majority of 245.  House Minority Leader Steny Hoyer, who is in line to become Speaker of the House, says on Election Night, "The people have spoken, and their voices can be heard loud and clear as a mandate for change."  House Minority Whip Nancy Pelosi will likely become the first woman to lead a major party in the House of Representatives.

With the 2006 midterm elections finished, focus is beginning to shift towards the 2008 Presidential election.  In nearly all opinion polls, President Clark crushes any potential opponent.  However, the day following Election Day, Clark has a shocking announcement.

"I will not be a candidate for President of the United States in 2008.  I love this job, but three years will be enough for me."

Speculation arises as to who will be the next President.  Will it be Vice President Holbrooke?  Senate Minority Leader Jon Kyl?  Governor Tim Pawlenty, who managed to survive a strong challenge in 2006?  The race is on.

----------------------------
Coming Next:
The race to the White House is beginning to heat up.  Who will emerge as an early frontrunner, and who will announce that they will not run?  And how go President Clark's last two years?  Also, how does the Democratic Congress perform?  All this - and more - coming up tomorrow.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on January 07, 2007, 11:47:09 PM
I can't remember a what-if scenario in a long time that has had me wanting more to the extent that this has.

Excellent work. :)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 08, 2007, 11:11:33 AM
Thank you, Gabu.

Instead of a regular update tonight, I will be posting a segment from Chris Matthews' show, discussing potential 2008 Presidential candidates.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: adam on January 08, 2007, 04:23:24 PM
:( I was really looking forward to seeing Clark campaign in 2008. Perhaps he'll do what Bush Sr. did and decide to run after all?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: YRABNNRM on January 08, 2007, 06:15:10 PM
I can't remember a what-if scenario in a long time that has had me wanting more to the extent that this has.

Excellent work. :)

Indeed.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: George W. Hobbes on January 08, 2007, 07:23:34 PM
GWB '08!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Soaring Eagle on January 08, 2007, 09:41:42 PM
Which Senate candidates won that did not in reality?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 08, 2007, 09:45:33 PM
Which Senate candidates won that did not in reality?

Only Harold Ford.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Soaring Eagle on January 08, 2007, 09:50:57 PM
That's right. I forgot that others had won in 2004 and Wellstone did not die.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 08, 2007, 09:53:02 PM
Instead of doing an entire show tonight, I will merely be giving a summary of potential Presidential candidates, with a description for each.  Tomorrow, I will resume the storyline.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 08, 2007, 10:51:08 PM
Potential 2008 Presidential Candidates

Democrats

Vice President Richard Holbrooke
Now that President Clark is not running, Vice President Holbrooke seems to be the initial frontrunner.  His diplomatic leadership during World War III and his past experience would likely make him the frontrunner in the general election, as well.

Senator Paul Wellstone
A prominent peace activist, Wellstone's message could sink in with far-left voters and voters who are tired of war.

Senate Majority Leader Dick Durbin
As the leader of the Senate Democrats, Durbin has become a national leader of the party and a national spokesman for its positions.  Certainly, he is in the top tier.

Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton
Her last name has double the effect after her husband's death, and her solid support of President Clark during the war makes her a top contender.

Senator Mike Ciresi
As a prominent leader of mainstream Democrats, Ciresi has attained national recognition and is sure to be a major candidate if he runs.

Senator Evan Bayh
A moderate Senator with executive experience, Bayh could go far.

Secretary of State Bill Richardson
His diplomatic experience could make him a top contender, but only if Vice President Holbrooke chooses not to run.

Speaker of the House Steny Hoyer
Second in line for Presidential succession, Hoyer's visibility increased dramatically in his ascension to the speakership.

Other potential Democratic candidates include: Senator Barack Obama, Senator Ken Salazar, Senator Bill Bradley (who was chosen by the Democrats to run in 2002), House Majority Leader Nancy Pelosi, Governor Janet Napolitano, and Governor Brad Henry.

Republicans

Senate Minority Leader Jon Kyl
With his visibility as a national leader of the party, and his effective opposition to the Democrats, Kyl seems to be the automatic frontrunner for the Republican nomination.

Former Vice President Tom Ridge
A Bush Administration member who is not affiliated too closely with Bush, Ridge has a solid following in the party and could go far.

Mrs. Lynne Cheney
Cheney was applauded for her efforts as Vice Presidential nominee in 2004, and some believe she should be rewarded now with the Presidential nomination.

Former President George W. Bush
Americans experienced buyer's remorse after choosing Barnes over Bush, but the feeling has recently been overshadowed by joy over Clark's performance.  If Bush enters the race, he will be an automatic frontrunner.

Governor Tim Pawlenty
First gaining fame after the 2004 Minnesota terrorist attacks, and then for surviving re-election in a very Democratic year, Pawlenty is certainly in the top tier.

Former Mayor Rudy Giuliani
America's Mayor may be America's next President, if he can convince the party base that he will be loyal on social issues.

Governor Rick Perry
A relatively popular conservative Governor, Perry could get the nomination, but only if President Bush does not run.

Governor Patrick Ballantine
After pulling off the upset of 2004 in North Carolina, Ballantine is considered by many to be a rising star in the Republican Party.

House Minority Leader Tom DeLay
Now that his goal of becoming Speaker is shattered, DeLay may try and become President instead.

Other potential Republican candidates include: Senator Trent Lott, Senator John Thune, Senator John McCain, Congressman Mike Pence, Congressman Tom Tancredo, and Former Congressman Christopher Cox.

-------------------------------------------
In addition, do not count out the possibility of a major third party/independent candidate emerging.
Who do you support?
Tomorrow will have a regular update.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: George W. Hobbes on January 08, 2007, 11:45:16 PM
Bush/Pawlenty sounds good to me.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Robespierre's Jaw on January 09, 2007, 12:21:28 AM
Never before has a What If scenario kept me on the edge of my seat. I must say again Well Done Yates! I'd love to see a Democratic ticket of Richard Holbrooke-Evan Bayh, and the GOp ticket of Tom Ridge-Tim Pawlenty.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on January 09, 2007, 12:22:58 AM
HOLBROOKE/BAYH 2008!!1111


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Conan on January 09, 2007, 12:53:13 AM
I'm surprised there are no party switchers!

Bradley / Richardson 08 !


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Reaganfan on January 09, 2007, 09:48:52 AM
I hope to see a Republican ticket of Pawlenty/Kyl


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Hash on January 09, 2007, 01:44:58 PM
How does Barnes finish over here? Does he go back to GA in shame?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 09, 2007, 03:52:24 PM
How does Barnes finish over here? Does he go back to GA in shame?

I was considering mentioning this, but I felt it would be too harsh on Barnes.  Barnes basically retires from public office in shame.  Most Democrats avoid him and he avoids media attention.  We have not heard the last from him, however.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 09, 2007, 05:06:01 PM
The next update shall be fairly early tonight; before 6:30 most likely.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Kevin on January 09, 2007, 05:29:48 PM
Look foreward to it.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 09, 2007, 07:59:33 PM
2008 Campaign: The Early Days

After a period of mourning for former President Gerald Ford, the 2008 political season begins. 

Rasmussen Reports
Potential Democratic Candidates
January 5th, 2007
Holbrooke: 47%
Wellstone: 19%
Clinton: 10%
Durbin: 8%
Pelosi: 7%
Others: 9%

Rasmussen Reports
Potential Republican Candidates
January 5th, 2007
Cheney: 18%
Kyl: 18%
Bush: 17%
Ridge: 15%
Pawlenty: 13%
Perry: 8%
Others: 11%

On January 7th, 2007, Vice President Richard Holbrooke announces that he will never run for President and will not accept any draft.  This news is greeted with intense disappointment from Democrats, Independents, and a few Republicans.  However, as Holbrooke was the strongest potential Democratic nominee, aside from Clark, most Republicans are quite pleased with this news.

The day following Holbrooke's announcement, though she insists the timing was not related, 2004 Vice Presidential nominee Lynne Cheney forms a Presidential exploratory committee.  Cheney, who is at the top of nearly every campaign poll for the Republicans, chooses former Republican National Chairman Ed Gillespie to be her campaign chairman.  When asked about running against her former running mate, Cheney replies, "It was an honor to run with George W. Bush, but it's time for America to move on."

On January 9th, 2006 (today!), Minnesota Senator Paul Wellstone announces that he will run for President, skipping the exploratory stage.  In his announcement, Wellstone expresses the need for a pacifist in the White House.

Marist College Poll
General Election Poll
January 11th, 2007
Cheney (R): 45%
Wellstone (D): 38%
Other: 10%
Undecided: 7%

On January 15th, 2007, Senator Hillary Clinton forms an exploratory committee for President.  James Carville is called to head the committee. 

The following day, House Majority Leader Nancy Pelosi announces from Washington that she will be a candidate for President, while Speaker Steny Hoyer, standing beside her, will not.

On January 20th, 2007, in response to the requests of several Congressman, an election is called for House Minority Leader.  In the election, Congressman Mike Pence defeats Minority Leader Tom DeLay by ten votes.  DeLay, in a fiery speech, resigns from Congress and announces that he will run for President to be a "champion for conservatives."

On February 2nd, 2007, at a gathering of Southern Governors, both Patrick Ballatine and Rick Perry announce that they will not be candidates for President in 2008.  Their fellow Republican Governor, Tim Pawlenty, has yet to declare his intentions.

Rasmussen Reports
Democratic Primary (Announced/Exploratory Candidates)
Febuary 5th, 2007
Clinton: 45%
Wellstone: 37%
Pelosi: 15%
Undecided: 3%

Rasmussen Reports
Republican Primary (Announced/Exploratory Candidates)
February 5th, 2007
Cheney: 73%
DeLay: 17%
Undecided: 10%

-----------------------------------------------
Coming Next:
More candidates announce their intentions, the Presidential race heats up, and more.



Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Reaganfan on January 09, 2007, 08:28:12 PM
I hope it's not Lynne Cheney. I'm for Pawlenty '08!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 09, 2007, 08:43:08 PM
I would like to say two quick things.  First, I would like to note that we have transitioned from the realm of the past to the realm of the future.  Everything that occurs from this point on in the fiction is occurring ahead in time, no longer behind us.  It is quite a transition.
Also, I would like to announce that the winner of the final Presidential election (2016) in this fiction will be your choice.  I will go into more details about this later.  However, I believe it is an appropriate end for this work, as you all have contributed so much in the regards of enthusiasm, reviews, and urging me to continue.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Soaring Eagle on January 09, 2007, 08:55:15 PM
I like Durbin/Bayh for the Dems and Ridge/Pawlenty for the GOP.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: adam on January 09, 2007, 09:42:31 PM
I would like to say two quick things.  First, I would like to note that we have transitioned from the realm of the past to the realm of the future.  Everything that occurs from this point on in the fiction is occurring ahead in time, no longer behind us.  It is quite a transition.
Also, I would like to announce that the winner of the final Presidential election (2016) in this fiction will be your choice.  I will go into more details about this later.  However, I believe it is an appropriate end for this work, as you all have contributed so much in the regards of enthusiasm, reviews, and urging me to continue.

Is there any chance that you would be interested in extending this past 2016 if it continues to be so popular?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 09, 2007, 10:07:44 PM
Adam, I am flattered by that question.  At this time, I do not believe I will be continuing this fiction past 2016.  One can only speculate events so far into the future.  Writing past 2016 would, for me, require too much guesswork and would not be based on solid truth.  Though this work is fiction, it is based on reality.  I could not make this work the same type of fiction if I continued it that far.  If several individuals would truly like to see events after 2016, I may write a few general updates.  However, this is not my last fiction, and I have another, different type of "What-If" work in my mind after this is completed.  In the meantime, however, I hope you enjoy this fiction; over half of it remains to be completed! :)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Soaring Eagle on January 09, 2007, 10:10:27 PM
Adam, I am flattered by that question.  At this time, I do not believe I will be continuing this fiction past 2016.  One can only speculate events so far into the future.  Writing past 2016 would, for me, require too much guesswork and would not be based on solid truth.  Though this work is fiction, it is based on reality.  I could not make this work the same type of fiction if I continued it that far.  If several individuals would truly like to see events after 2016, I may write a few general updates.  However, this is not my last fiction, and I have another, different type of "What-If" work in my mind after this is completed.  In the meantime, however, I hope you enjoy this fiction; over half of it remains to be completed! :)

I look forward to the rest of it. This is one of the best threads on this forum, IMO, and it always holds my interest. Great job!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 09, 2007, 10:12:25 PM
Adam, I am flattered by that question.  At this time, I do not believe I will be continuing this fiction past 2016.  One can only speculate events so far into the future.  Writing past 2016 would, for me, require too much guesswork and would not be based on solid truth.  Though this work is fiction, it is based on reality.  I could not make this work the same type of fiction if I continued it that far.  If several individuals would truly like to see events after 2016, I may write a few general updates.  However, this is not my last fiction, and I have another, different type of "What-If" work in my mind after this is completed.  In the meantime, however, I hope you enjoy this fiction; over half of it remains to be completed! :)

I look forward to the rest of it. This is one of the best threads on this forum, IMO, and it always holds my interest. Great job!

Thank you, Soaring Eagle.  I am glad you enjoy it.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: adam on January 09, 2007, 10:33:12 PM
Adam, I am flattered by that question.  At this time, I do not believe I will be continuing this fiction past 2016.  One can only speculate events so far into the future.  Writing past 2016 would, for me, require too much guesswork and would not be based on solid truth.  Though this work is fiction, it is based on reality.  I could not make this work the same type of fiction if I continued it that far.  If several individuals would truly like to see events after 2016, I may write a few general updates.  However, this is not my last fiction, and I have another, different type of "What-If" work in my mind after this is completed.  In the meantime, however, I hope you enjoy this fiction; over half of it remains to be completed! :)

I look forward to the rest of it. This is one of the best threads on this forum, IMO, and it always holds my interest. Great job!

Much agreed. Thanks for this wonderful peice, Yates.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: ottermax on January 09, 2007, 10:47:08 PM
One note on the earlier bit describing the start of the world war in Israel. I think you said that the Iranians destroyed the Western Wall, which is unlikely because the Dome of the Rock, one of the holiest Muslim sites sit on top of the Western Wall, so a Muslim would never destroy the Western Wall.

Just needed to clear that up.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 09, 2007, 10:52:37 PM
One note on the earlier bit describing the start of the world war in Israel. I think you said that the Iranians destroyed the Western Wall, which is unlikely because the Dome of the Rock, one of the holiest Muslim sites sit on top of the Western Wall, so a Muslim would never destroy the Western Wall.

Just needed to clear that up.

Thank you.

The missiles shot by Iran were aimed in the general vicinity of the Jewish Quarter of Jerusalem.  They were not aimed precisely for the Western Wall.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Colin on January 10, 2007, 03:49:07 PM
One note on the earlier bit describing the start of the world war in Israel. I think you said that the Iranians destroyed the Western Wall, which is unlikely because the Dome of the Rock, one of the holiest Muslim sites sit on top of the Western Wall, so a Muslim would never destroy the Western Wall.

Just needed to clear that up.

Thank you.

The missiles shot by Iran were aimed in the general vicinity of the Jewish Quarter of Jerusalem.  They were not aimed precisely for the Western Wall.

Well if they did destroy the Western Wall, which means that they also destroyed the Dome of the Rock, that would bring about a very large amount of anti-Iranian sentiment throughout the Muslim world. It would be a near equivalent of a Muslim country firing missiles at Mecca.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 10, 2007, 03:51:57 PM
Forgive my ignorance.  Let us just imagine that this is not the case. :)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Colin on January 10, 2007, 04:50:46 PM
Forgive my ignorance.  Let us just imagine that this is not the case. :)

It's alright I actually think that could be an interesting scenario and that's why I brought it up. Iran shoots missiles aimed at the Jewish Quarter instead some are off and damage the area around the Dome of the Mount and the Western Wall. This leads to a backlash among Muslims in the region. It's very ASB but then again IMHO the war that started was rather random.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 10, 2007, 05:09:28 PM
Thank you, Colin.

The next update will be tonight.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: jokerman on January 10, 2007, 06:43:45 PM
Wow, excellent work, Yates.  This is perhaps the best political timeline I've seen.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 10, 2007, 08:44:00 PM
Early 2008 Campaign Season

On February 10th, 2007, Senate Majority Leader Dick Durbin declares his candidacy for President.  In his announcement speech, Durbin makes numerous references to his leadership of Senate Democrats, as well as his support of the Clark Administration.  Durbin is very popular among the party's left wing.

Two days after his Democratic counterpart, Senate Minority Leader Jon Kyl announces that he, too, will throw his hat into the ring.  To the surprise of many, Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty stands beside Kyl during the speech, and, later that day, confirms that he will not be running for President, and supports Kyl for the nomination.

Rasmussen Reports
Democratic Primary
February 18th, 2007
Clinton: 33%
Durbin: 28%
Wellstone: 21%
Pelosi: 7%
Undecided: 11%

Rasmussen Reports
Republican Primary
February 18th, 2007
Cheney: 41%
Kyl: 38%
DeLay: 7%
Undecided: 14%

On February 25th, 2007, former President George W. Bush tells reporters that he will not run for President in 2008, nor will he seek political office again.  He also refuses to make an endorsement, saying he will endorse the eventual nominee after the convention. 

Perhaps because of Bush's announcement, former Vice President Tom Ridge begins his own Presidential campaign on March 2nd, 2007.  Ridge, in his announcement speech, cites the need for moderate, steady leadership.

On March 5th, 2007, Secretary of State Bill Richardson enters the Presidential race, telling media that a void has been created due to the fact that neither President Clark nor Vice President Holbrooke are candidates in the primary.  Richardson declares that his Presidency could be seen as a, "continuation of the Clark style of leadership."

On March 12th, 2007, former Secretary of Defense Dick Cheney has a massive heart attack, nearly killing him.  As he is recovering, Lynne Cheney announces that she will not run for President.  Cheney's announcement sends waves throughout the political community; she was considered to be the frontrunner for the Republican nomination.

Rasmussen Reports
Democratic Primary
March 15th, 2007
Durbin: 21%
Clinton: 19%
Richardson: 18%
Wellstone: 15%
Pelosi: 8%
Undecided: 19%

Rasmussen Reports
Republican Primary
March 15th, 2007
Ridge: 38%
Kyl: 37%
DeLay: 9%
Undecided: 16%

By April 30th, Senators Evan Bayh, Mike Ciresi, Bill Bradley, Barack Obama, Ken Salazar, Trent Lott, John Thune, and John McCain have all confirmed that they will not be running for President.  In addition, Governor Janet Napolitano has announced that she will not run.  Also having taken themselves out of consideration are Congressmen Mike Pence and Tom Tancredo.

On May 7th, 2007, former Congressman Christopher Cox declares his intentions to run for President.  Cox, however, is not thought to be a major factor in the primary.

Des Moines Register
Democratic Caucus
May 15th, 2007
Durbin: 35%
Wellstone: 26%
Richardson: 15%
Clinton: 11%
Pelosi: 6%
Undecided: 7%

Des Moines Register
Republican Caucus
May 15th, 2007
Kyl: 42%
Ridge: 36%
DeLay: 8%
Cox: 7%
Undecided: 7%

The race is on.

-----------------------------------
Coming Next:
And, they're off!  The candidates have declared, but there is one more who will enter the race with a bang near the year's end.  The campaign is underway, with speeches, ads, and debates.  Also, how are things going in the White House?



Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Soaring Eagle on January 10, 2007, 10:18:00 PM
I wish Clinton's numbers were that low in reality.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on January 10, 2007, 10:22:39 PM
I wish Clinton's numbers were that low in reality.

Well, this is later than right now, so hold out hope... ;)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Reaganfan on January 10, 2007, 11:58:22 PM
Must...have...more...Yates.....


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 11, 2007, 06:13:10 PM
The next update will be tonight.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 11, 2007, 10:20:58 PM
The Road to the White House

On May 25th, 2007, Hillary Clinton ends her exploratory stage, and begins her official campaign.  She runs under the slogan, "America Calls Another Clinton," and consistently mentions her late husband in speeches, advertisements, and campaign literature.  Mostly because of Bill Clinton's recent death, this message resonates with voters.

On May 30th, 2007, the first debate for the Democratic Primary candidates takes place in Kansas City, Missouri.  Paul Wellstone is generally agreed to be the most visible candidate in the debate, due to his message that World War III was caused by having too pugnacious a President, and that he (Wellstone) would achieve America's goals using peaceful measures.  Another notable moment was Nancy Pelosi's assertion that, "Hillary's constant use of her husband is a disgusting example of using a death for political gain."  Clinton responded to the statement by referring to Pelosi as "a woman with no decency."  Snap polls after the debate actually showed Durbin and Richardson as the believed winners of the debate, with Wellstone a solid third, and Clinton and Pelosi far behind.

Two days later, the first Republican Primary debate takes place.  The debate is less fiery than the Democratic debate.  Ridge and Kyl mostly discuss policy propositions, with Cox criticizing both major candidates.  DeLay proclaims himself as the only "true conservative" in the race, and, after Ridge proposes that the United States should decrease the size of its active military, DeLay refers to him as a "spineless coward."  Jon Kyl is widely seen as the winner of this debate, with Christopher Cox a distant second. 

The White House

On June 17th, 2007, President Clark announces that he is proposing to Congress a revised budget for the 2008 fiscal year which will cut federal spending by nearly 20%.  Standing beside Treasury Secretary Jack Lew, Clark says, "We are cutting spending this year, and I urge all future Presidents to cut spending in their budgets for every year in this decade, so we can finally stop adding to this huge debt."  Clark's announcement is widely praised by both Republicans and Democrats.  Aside from this announcement, the Washington area has been fairly quiet recently.

Rasmussen Reports
June 25th, 2007
Clark Approval Rating
Approve: 76%
Disapprove: 22%
Unsure: 2%

2008 Campaign

Des Moines Register
July 30th, 2007
Democratic Caucus
Durbin: 34%
Wellstone: 30%
Richardson: 15%
Clinton: 9%
Pelosi: 7%
Unsure: 5%

Des Moines Register
July 30th, 2007
Republican Caucus
Kyl: 49%
Ridge: 36%
Cox: 8%
DeLay: 3%
Unsure: 4%

On August 21st, however, the Democratic primary field changes dramatically.  Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry, who had previously been thought to have ruled out a run in 2008, announces that he will run for President.  In his announcement speech, Henry says, "In this primary, only the far-left wing of my party is being represented.  I'm here to represent the majority of my party, and majority rules, so we're going to win."

Henry immediately begins to saturate Iowa with ads (using vast amount of early fundraising money).  His campaign manager announces that Henry will focus solely on Iowa until the caucuses are over, with the intent to use a victory in Iowa to give him momentum in New Hampshire, a state where he has little natural appeal.  In his speeches, Henry often touts the fact that he is the only sitting Governor in the Democratic primary, and that executive experience is necessary to be President.  Richardson contradicts him by citing the fact that, merely two years ago, he, too, was a Governor.

President Clark is remaining officially neutral in the primary, though Vice President Holbrooke and Treasury Secretary Lew are both actively campaigning for Richardson.  The Richardson campaign has, after Henry's entry into the race, largely abandoned Iowa, focusing almost exclusively on the New Hampshire Primary.  (Note: The Nevada Primary was not moved before New Hampshire in this scenario.)

In October, the race in Iowa is a dead heat for the Democrats, but Jon Kyl seems to have a solid lead for the Republicans.

Rasmussen Reports
October 20th, 2007
Iowa Democratic Caucus
Henry: 32%
Durbin: 29%
Wellstone: 21%
Richardson: 7%
Clinton: 5%
Pelosi: 3%
Undecided: 3%

Rasmussen Reports
October 20th, 2007
Iowa Republican Caucus
Kyl: 51%
Ridge: 34%
Cox: 10%
DeLay: 2%
Undecided: 3%

In merely three months, the votes will count.  Who will come out on top?

--------------------------------
Coming Next:
It is finally here - the Iowa Caucus.  Who will come out victorious, and who will be soundly defeated?  And, within the next few updates, this election will grow from just a two-party race.




Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 11, 2007, 10:28:46 PM
The Democratic Field

()()()()()()

The Republican Field

()()()()


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Reaganfan on January 11, 2007, 11:45:34 PM
I'm rootin' for Ridge.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: George W. Hobbes on January 12, 2007, 04:22:48 AM
Go Cox!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: AndrewTX on January 12, 2007, 11:22:07 AM
As always, awsome job Yates! I can't wait for the next update.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: SPC on January 12, 2007, 06:42:44 PM

The Fightin' 48th!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 12, 2007, 08:13:26 PM
The next update will be posted by midnight, most likely.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 13, 2007, 06:57:14 PM
I am sorry for not posting the update yesterday.  It will be posted this evening.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 13, 2007, 09:13:34 PM
IOWA
January 14th, 2008

It's the day of the Iowa Caucuses, and each candidate is making their final campaign stops in the states.  After essentially conceding Iowa several weeks ago, Bill Richardson has been getting an early start in New Hampshire.  Hillary Clinton and Nancy Pelosi have both failed to appeal to voters in Iowa, and have also begun to campaign in New Hampshire.  Paul Wellstone seems to be stuck in a solid third place.  The race for the Democratic Caucus is between Brad Henry and Dick Durbin, who have traded the lead in polling for months.

On the Republican side, Jon Kyl has been building a stronger lead in Iowa with each poll.  The true race is for second place.  Tom Ridge has, like Bill Richardson, basically given up hope of a victory in Iowa.  Christopher Cox, however, has been campaigning vigorously in the state for a chance to be perceived as a major candidate for the nomination.  Tom DeLay has been campaigning nationwide as opposed to only in Iowa or New Hampshire, which leads some to believe that he may be gearing up for an Independent or third party candidacy.

8:07

With 13% of precincts reporting. . .

Democrats
Durbin: 36.71%
Henry: 34.32%
Wellstone: 14.96%
Richardson: 6.51%
Clinton: 5.04%
Pelosi: 1.92%
Other: .54%
Paul Wellstone is projected to be in third place.
Bill Richardson is projected to be in fourth place.
Hillary Clinton is projected to be in fifth place.
Nancy Pelosi is projected to be in last place.


Republicans
Kyl: 51.37%
Cox: 24.59%
Ridge: 22.72%
DeLay: .70%
Other: .62%
[/i]Jon Kyl is projected to be the winner.
Tom DeLay is projected to be in last place.[/i]


9:14

With 34% of precincts reporting. . .

Democrats
Henry: 36.31%
Durbin: 36.07%

Republicans
Jon Kyl
Cox: 25.67%
Ridge: 21.84%

9:59

With 57% of precincts reporting. . .

Democrats
Durbin: 36.29%
Henry: 36.18%

Republicans
Jon Kyl
Cox: 26.73%
Ridge: 19.27%
Christopher Cox is projected to be in second place.
Tom Ridge is projected to be in third place.


10:34

With 83% of precincts reporting. . .

Democrats
Henry: 37.92%
Durbin: 35.34%
Brad Henry is projected to be the winner.
Dick Durbin is projected to be in secnd place.


Iowa Results

Democrats
[X] Brad Henry
Dick Durbin
Paul Wellstone
Bill Richardson
Hillary Clinton
Nancy Pelosi

Republicans
[X] Jon Kyl
Christopher Cox
Tom Ridge
Tom DeLay

----------------------------
Coming Next:
The next update will be in television show form, and will discuss Iowa results as well as provide updates on candidates who have dropped out of the race - one candidate will drop out of the race altogether, but two candidates will drop out of the primary races only.  Coming next!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 14, 2007, 05:57:03 PM
The next update will be tonight.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 16, 2007, 07:05:24 PM
I realize that the last two updates have been posted late.  However, I am slightly suprised by the lack of response.  Do you all still wish me to update?  If so, I would be happy to do so.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: SPC on January 16, 2007, 07:07:06 PM
Yes we want you to update. We've just been waiting for the updates to come.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: YRABNNRM on January 16, 2007, 07:18:19 PM
I realize that the last two updates have been posted late.  However, I am slightly suprised by the lack of response.  Do you all still wish me to update?  If so, I would be happy to do so.

Definitely!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on January 16, 2007, 07:35:43 PM
I think we're all just sitting here in awe with nothing to say but "Please, Sir, I want some more".


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CPT MikeyMike on January 16, 2007, 07:40:27 PM
Is the Pope Catholic? :)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Soaring Eagle on January 16, 2007, 10:20:14 PM
Yes we want you to update. We've just been waiting for the updates to come.

Ditto.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 16, 2007, 10:27:00 PM
Alright.  Thank you all.  I apologize for the delay.  The next update will be tomorrow!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 17, 2007, 10:07:17 PM
HARDBALL
With Chris Matthews

Matthews: Good evening and thanks for joining us.  Tonight, we're going to discuss the results in Iowa and what they mean for both parties' primaries.  Joining me are our two guests for tonight: former Democratic Party Chairman Terry McAuliffe and former Republican Party Chairman Ed Gillespie.

Chairman Gillespie, we'll start with you.  How surprising is it that Tom Ridge came in third, after Christopher Cox, and what will it mean for your party's primary?

Gillespie: Well, it's very surprising at first glance, but when you look more closely, it's not surprising at all.  Ridge has been running a lackluster campaign and Cox has been running a truly great campaign, getting his name out there to voters.  Cox earned that victory.  As for what it will mean, Ridge must come in second place or, even better for him, win the New Hampshire Primary if he wants to stay in the race.  At the start of the primary season, he was one of the two frontrunners, with Jon Kyl.  Then, he sort've became the second fiddle to Kyl, but now he's at risk of losing that.  If Cox comes in front of him in New Hampshire, Cox has taken the place of the main challenger, and Ridge is out.

Matthews: With Jon Kyl's victory, is it safe to say that he is the frontrunner?

Gillespie: Absolutely.  Kyl is a solid frontrunner.  The only way he can be stopped is if Christopher Cox just blows Ridge out of the water in New Hampshire and, somehow, gets enough momentum to play even with Kyl.  But, right now, I'd say there is a 75% chance that Kyl will be the Republican nominee.

Matthews: Now to you, Chairman McAuliffe.  Brad Henry came out ahead of Dick Durbin in Iowa.  What will this mean for the race for the nomination?

McAuliffe: Well, this is devastating for the Durbin campaign.  Durbin is from Illinois, a neighboring state to Iowa, and should have won.  He's at risk of losing his status as the frontrunner.  He needs to come back strong in New Hampshire if he wants to remain the favorite.  Henry won because his late entry into the race got the media attention focused on him.  Right now, he has the momentum, and he's going to be hard to stop.

Matthews: Now, two candidates exited the Democratic race last night - Paul Wellstone and Nancy Pelosi.  Comment on that, if you will.

McAuliffe: Pelosi was overshadowed by Clinton throughout the campaign.  If she ran in 2004, she would have had much more success, but two powerful women going at each other in one primary is too much for voters.  Wellstone's exit from the race surprised me, and it looks like he's gearing up for a third party run.

Matthews: Speaking of that, let's roll a clip from Wellstone's concession speech last night.

"The fight for the Democratic nomination is over.  But the fight for peace and freedom, for equality and for tolerance, for liberty and hope, is still here.  I plan to continue fighting that fight and win the White House."

Matthews: To me, it sounds like he's planning to go third party, maybe to the Peace and Freedom Party or to the Greens.

McAuliffe: Yes, it does sound like that.  If he does, it would hurt the nominee, but it would hurt a nominee Henry or Richardson more than it would hurt a nominee Durbin, simply because Durbin already appeals to the far left crowd.

Matthews: Now, Chairman Gillespie, a candidate for the Republican nomination started a third party campaign yesterday.  Tom DeLay is now seeking the nomination of the Constitution Party.  Will he get it?

Gillespie: Well, I'm no expert on Constitution Party politics, but yes, I think he will, and he will hurt the Republcian candidate in the general election, no matter who it is.  After decades of service to our party, I am shocked that Tom would betray us like this.

Matthews: Alright, predictions for the general election race, both of you.  Terry, you first.

McAuliffe: Henry vs. Kyl vs. Wellstone vs. DeLay, and Henry will win.

Matthews: Ed, your turn.

Gillespie: Same candidates, but Kyl will win.

Matthews: We should have you both bet money on that.  Anyway, thank you both for being our guests tonight, and for all of you at home, thank you for watching.


-------------------------
Coming Next:
New Hampshire Primary - with the general election candidate field growing, who will be the nominees of the two major parties?  The winners of New Hampshire will be on their ways to the nomination.   


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: AndrewTX on January 18, 2007, 08:10:53 AM
Oohhh, looking good Yates.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on January 18, 2007, 01:01:38 PM
Henry/Durbin '08!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 18, 2007, 05:13:03 PM
The next update will be tonight.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: adam on January 18, 2007, 05:48:20 PM
Cox 2008!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 18, 2007, 10:54:23 PM
New Hampshire

Rasmussen Reports
January 18th, 2008
Democratic New Hampshire Primary
Henry: 36%
Durbin: 31%
Richardson: 22%
Clinton: 9%
Other: 2%

Rasmussen Reports
January 18th, 2008
Republican New Hampshire Primary
Kyl: 48%
Ridge: 26%
Cox: 25%
Other: 1%

The day after his disappointing second-place finish in Iowa, Dick Durbin begins a week-long saturation of the major television stations in New Hampshire.  Durbin focuses on his Senate experience, and attacks Henry's lack of foreign policy experience, going as far as to compare him to Roy Barnes and George W. Bush, two former Governors who had disastrous terms as President.

Henry, on the other hand, largely rides on momentum to increase his lead and to win solidly in New Hampshire, securing the nomination early.  Bill Richardson, who has declared New Hampshire a "must-win" state, has made his connections with the Clark Administration the central theme of his campaign.  His third place position in the polls is, to his campaign, quite disappointing.  Hillary Clinton has put all of the $17.6 million remaining in her campaign war chest into New Hampshire ads and get-out-the-vote efforts.  Word has it that, if she finishes last among the major candidates, Clinton will leave the race.

Jon Kyl has largely remained out of the fray that is the battle for second place.  Kyl has already begun to concentrate his efforts campaigning in swing states such as Florida and Ohio in preparation for the general election.  Tom Ridge is regionally popular among New Hampshire political leaders, but Christopher Cox has attacked Ridge for his connections to the unpopular Bush Administration.  Cox, who has dubbed himself an outsider, has obtained much publicity from his "dark horse" status. 

On January 20th, a final debate between the candidates of both parties takes place.  In the Democratic debate, Dick Durbin, with his usual vigor, attacks Henry's lack of his experience and promotes his own experience as a Senate leader.  Henry appears to be unprepared to respond to these attacks.  Bill Richardson and Hillary Clinton remain fairly quiet during the debate, relying on canned responses to most questions.  Polls after the debate show a strong victory for Durbin.

In the Republican debate, Jon Kyl spends most of his speaking time focusing on his Senate record, and largely ignores the other two candidates.  Christopher Cox and Tom Ridge viciously attack each other during the debate.  Polls after the debate show Kyl as the widely-agreed winner, with Cox and Ridge far behind.

Gallup Poll
January 24th, 2008
Democratic New Hampshire Primary
Durbin: 34%
Henry: 33%
Richardson: 24%
Clinton: 8%
Other: 1%

Gallup Poll
January 24th, 2008
Republican New Hampshire Primary
Kyl: 62%
Cox: 19%
Ridge: 17%
Other: 2%

PRIMARY NIGHT

With 14% of precincts reporting. . .

Democratic Primary
Durbin: 35.41%
Henry: 33.28%
Richardson: 25.83%
Clinton: 4.32%
Other: 1.16%
Bill Richardson is projected to be in third place.
Hillary Clinton is projected to be in last place.


Republican Primary
Kyl: 65.81%
Cox: 15.20%
Ridge: 12.48%
Other: 6.51%
Jon Kyl is projected to be the winner.

At 9:38 P.M., word comes that Hillary Clinton will end her Presidential bid.  At 9:45 P.M., she addresses her supporters and officially announces her withdrawl from the race.

At 10:01 P.M., Bill Richardson's campaign manager announces that Richardson will be addressing supporters tomororow.  It is reported by DailyKos that the Richardson campaign has cancelled all campaign events in South Carolina.

With 57% of precincts reporting. . .

Democratic Primary
Durbin: 36.72%
Henry: 32.91%
Dick Durbin is projected to be the winner.
Brad Henry is projected to be in second place.


Republican Primary
Jon Kyl
Cox: 16.13%
Ridge: 13.65%
Christopher Cox is projected to be in second place.
Tom Ridge is projected to be in last place.


New Hampshire Primary
Democratic Winner: Dick Durbin
Republican Winner: Jon Kyl


------------------------
Coming Next:
More candidates leave the race.  One party's nomination is nearly locked up, while the other party can expect a fight to the convention.  All this, and more, in the next update.





Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 19, 2007, 10:58:52 PM
The next update will be tomorrow evening.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Kevin on January 21, 2007, 12:15:42 PM
This is really exiting I hope an update is coming soon!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 21, 2007, 10:23:41 PM
Announcement

From this point forward, all updates will be posted at 8:00 P.M. EST/7:00 P.M. CST


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 22, 2007, 07:29:53 PM
The Fight

With both Bill Richardson and Hillary Clinton out of the Presidential race, the Democratic nomination will either go to Senate Majority Leader Dick Durbin or Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry.  After an unexpectedly solid victory in the New Hampshire Primary (most analysts projected that the winner would be decided by a margin of less than 1000 votes), Durbin seems to have the advantage.

On the Republican side, Tom Ridge has dropped out of the race, leaving Christopher Cox as the sole remaining challenger to the heavy frontrunner, Senate Minority Leader Jon Kyl.  However, to the surprise of nearly everyone, Cox leaves the race three days after the New Hampshire Primary, saying, "I could pursue a longshot campaign for the nomination.  I could get my name out and maybe get my name in the appendix in some history book.  But now is a time for unity, and in the name of party unity, I am leaving the race for the White House and wholeheartedly endorsing Jon Kyl."  With Cox's exit from the race, Jon Kyl is the presumptive Republican Presidential nominee.

Rasmussen Reports
February 1st, 2008
South Carolina Democratic Primary
Henry: 45%
Durbin: 43%
Undecided: 12%

Henry launches a week-long advertising campaign in South Carolina, touting his centrist views, and attacking Durbin as being a left-wing extremist.  Durbin responds by making several appearances with the state's African American political leaders, including Congressman Jim Clyburn. 

Rasmussen Reports
February 5th, 2008
General Election
Henry: 32%
Kyl: 31%
Wellstone: 10%
DeLay: 2%
Undecided: 25%
---
Durbin: 35%
Kyl: 34%
Wellstone: 6%
DeLay: 3%
Undecided: 22%

Henry uses this poll, and others like it, to tout his perceived "electability" in a general election.  Durbin responds by charging Henry of abandoning "traditional Democratic values."  The campaign turns into a battle-royale of the centrist and conservative-leaning Democrats and the traditional liberal and far-left Democrats.  The situation is escalated when Paul Wellstone, campaigning independently for the White House, announces that he will, if Henry is nominated, "campaign to win" as opposed to "trying to send a message."  Congressman Dennis Kucinich, Senator Barbara Boxer, and others, pledge to support Wellstone if Henry is the Democratic nominee.

Other Democrats respond to this by pledging to support Jon Kyl if Durbin is nominated.  Senator Joe Lieberman says, "If Dick Durbin is the Democratic nominee, America will have to choose between two far-leftists, an ultra-conservative, and a mainstream conservative.  I'll choose the one who isn't an extremist."  This statement, in which Lieberman is obviously suggesting moderate Democrats support Kyl if Durbin is nominated, is supported by several moderate and conservative Democrats.

The South Carolina Primary is only days away. . .

-------------------
Tomorrow at 8:00 P.M. EST/7:00 P.M. CST
Will the battle between Democrats escalate?  Who will the Democrats nominate?  This, and more, in the next update.


Title: UPDATE: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 22, 2007, 10:02:52 PM
Announcement

From this point forward, the fiction will be run somewhat like a television show.  Every weeknight (Monday through Friday) at 8:00 P.M. EST/7:00 P.M. CST, an update will be posted.  Tomorrow's update will focus on the campaign, while the update after that will focus on the goings-on in Washington.  Expect updates to shift between the campaign and Washington from this point on.


Title: UPDATED :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 23, 2007, 07:56:32 PM
SOUTH CAROLINA PRIMARY

Democratic Primary
[X] Dick Durbin: 49.46%
Brad Henry: 48.43%
Other: 2.01%

Dick Durbin's surprise victory in the South Carolina primary secures his status as the odds-on frontrunner and, as some begin to say, presumptive nominee.  The day after the results are announced, Brad Henry ends his bid for the nomination.  In his speech, he says, "Yes, we're disappointed.  Yes, we're angry.  But we can't let these feelings control us.  We need to get over it and do all we can to support Dick Durbin in the general election."  The remarks are meant to discourage Henry supporters from endorsing the Republican nominee, Jon Kyl.

However, the remarks do little.  On February 23, 2008, Senator Joe Lieberman holds a press conference in which he endorses Kyl for President.  Standing beside him are fellow Democrats Henry Cuellar, Phil Bredesen, Gene Taylor, and others.  Lieberman says, "The Democratic Party no longer represents patriots like President Clark.  It represents ultra-liberals who, judging by their rhetoric, don't seem to want the best for our nation." 

Rasmussen Reports
March 5th, 2008
Kyl: 41%
Durbin: 32%
Wellstone: 9%
DeLay: 2%
Undecided: 16%

Now having the nomination locked up, Durbin has a difficult decision to.  Should he choose a running mate who he believes to be best fit for the spot, or should he choose Brad Henry in an effort to win back conservative Democrats? 

While Durbin is pondering this decision, Jon Kyl announces his running mate.  In a press conference from St. Paul, Minnesota, Kyl announces that his running mate will be Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty.  The Kyl/Pawlenty campaign immediately begins a nationwide tour, hitting key swing states.

Independent candidate Senator Paul Wellstone, who has announced his intention to remain in the race, also selects his running mate.  Wellstone selects Congressman Dennis Kucinich.  Also, Constitution Party presumptive nominee Tom DeLay selects anti-immigration activist Jim Gilchrist as his running mate.

Durbin appoints Bob Schrum to manage a committee to select a running mate.  Durbin's personal favorite is Secretary of State Bill Richardson, a former primary rival.  Other names he is considering are Senator Mike Ciresi, Senator Barbara Boxer, Senator Ben Nelson, and Governor Janet Napolitano.  However, Durbin's advisors consistently remind him of the need to win back the votes of conservative Democrats, possibly by choosing Brad Henry.

By March 20th, 2008, Durbin has made his decision.

The Democratic Ticket
()()
DICK DURBIN/BILL RICHARDSON

The Republican Ticket
()()
JON KYL/TIM PAWLENTY

The Independent Ticket
()()
PAUL WELLSTONE/DENNIS KUCINICH

The Constitution Ticket
()()
TOM DELAY/JIM GILCHRIST

The race is on.

--------------------------------------
TOMORROW AT 8
President Clark begins his final year in office.  Though he has attempted to heal the divide, debate in Congress becomes more heated than ever, and includes an early debate between the two major party nominees.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: AndrewTX on January 23, 2007, 08:47:15 PM
Ohhh, this looks good!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 24, 2007, 08:31:42 PM
Update will be posted either tomorrow morning or early tomorrow afternoon.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Kevin on January 25, 2007, 04:40:21 PM
Looks great keep it up Yates!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on January 25, 2007, 04:45:36 PM
()

Please, Sir, I want some more.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: TommyC1776 on January 25, 2007, 04:55:48 PM
Please more.  please.


Title: UPDATE :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 25, 2007, 10:14:28 PM
The Final Year

President Clark, in his final State of the Union address, announces that the agenda for his last year in office will consist of balancing the budget, attempting to disarm North Korea, and cutting taxes for the middle class.  Clark remains immensely popular, and his agenda is applauded by both Democrats and Republicans.

Despite Clark’s popularity, however, Congress is deeply divided on partisan lines, and seems to have more partisan bickering than ever before.  The Democratic majority, lead by Speaker Steny Hoyer and newly selected House Majority Leader Ed Markey are facing an effective and strong-willed minority lead by Mike Pence.  In the Senate, the two presumptive nominees for President are their party’s respective leaders, a first in our nation’s history.

President Clark proposes a budget to Congress which includes dramatic spending cuts in several areas, including welfare, education, and federal worker salaries.  Congressional Republicans are ecstatic over this budget, though Democrats come out in line to oppose it, the first notable opposition Democrats have shown to the popular President of their own party. 

In a passionate debate on the Senate floor, Senate Majority Leader and Democratic Presidential nominee Dick Durbin and Senate Minority Leader and Republican nominee Jon Kyl attack each other’s positions on cutting spending on the welfare program.  In the end, several Democratic Senators join the Republicans in supporting the cut in spending, and the budget as a whole.  The debate is seen by many as a sign that Durbin is not the wholehearted Clark supporter he has claimed to be.  In the campaign, Durbin has often boasted of his status as “Clark’s representative in the Senate,” and has noted his essential position for getting Clark’s policy through Congress. 

In early April, Jon Kyl publicly meets with President Clark in the White House with the stated purpose of discussing ways in which bipartisanship can be used to pass much of Clark’s agenda.  The meeting gives photographers plenty of opportunities to snap photos of Kyl and Clark shaking hands and chatting, which are picked up by the Kyl campaign.

Though Durbin and Kyl remain the official leaders of their parties in the Senate, their responsibilities have largely been handed over.  Leading the Democrats from behind the scenes is Senator Barbara Boxer.  Leadership duties over the Republicans have been largely transferred to Kyl’s “heir apparent,” Senator John Ensign. 

Rasmussen Reports
Clark Approval Rating
April 30th, 2008
Approve: 76%
Disapprove: 22%
Unsure: 2%

Rasmussen Reports
Generic Congressional Ballot
May 2nd, 2008
Republican: 45%
Democrat: 38%
Other: 2%
Undecided: 15%

Political analyst Stu Rothenberg says, “2008 is looking increasingly like a Republican year.  As of now, I would expect significant gains for Republicans in Congress.”

However, the focus of Americans is shifted suddenly on May 7th, 2008. 

BREAKING NEWS: North Korean state television is now reporting that missiles containing nuclear warheads are aimed at the cities of Tokyo, Beijing, and Seoul.  A top military official has given orders to have the missiles ready for launch at a moment’s notice.

NEXT UPDATE
Will there be war or will a crisis be averted?  And how will this issue affect the Presidential race? 


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: ottermax on January 26, 2007, 07:49:13 PM
You've already hit Israel with missiles and now Japan, Korea, and China! Stop destroying all of my homelands. Also, why is North Korea hitting Beijing? I'm confused.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 26, 2007, 08:00:06 PM
You've already hit Israel with missiles and now Japan, Korea, and China! Stop destroying all of my homelands.

I am sincerely sorry!  However, some action is necessary in a what-if fiction.  I doubt you all would enjoy reading 18 pages of everyday life!

Quote
Also, why is North Korea hitting Beijing? I'm confused.

This will become clear in the next update, which will probably be tomorrow.


Title: Re: UPDATE :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on January 26, 2007, 08:07:43 PM
BREAKING NEWS: North Korean state television is now reporting that missiles containing nuclear warheads are aimed at the cities of Tokyo, Beijing, and Seoul.  A top military official has given orders to have the missiles ready for launch at a moment’s notice.

Tokyo I can see, but Seoul seems especially unlikely.  Take a look at a map of South Korea:

()

Seoul is right smack on the North Korean border.  Any nuclear missile fired at Seoul would almost assuredly spread radioactive fallout all over North Korea.  I don't think that Kim Jong-Il is that insane.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 26, 2007, 08:13:36 PM
Well, I am anxious to see what your reactions will be to what will actually be happening.


Title: Re: UPDATE :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: adam on January 26, 2007, 09:05:27 PM
I don't think that Kim Jong-Il is that insane.

You're giving him a lot of credit.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Kevin on January 26, 2007, 09:16:22 PM
I look foreward too it!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CPT MikeyMike on January 26, 2007, 09:29:06 PM
Keep it up...looks great!


Title: Re: UPDATE :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on January 26, 2007, 11:25:25 PM
I don't think that Kim Jong-Il is that insane.

You're giving him a lot of credit.

Even the craziest of people don't do things that hurt themselves.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: ottermax on January 27, 2007, 12:02:10 AM
I don't mean to be too critical, I just think it's oddly funny that the places that are blown up happen to be the places of my cultural roots. Weird coincidence isn't it? It's not unlikely for Israel, Japan, and China to blow up, it's just weird that they are in this fictional history. Despite my criticisms, I really do enjoy this fictional history, it's so detailed and creative.


Title: Re: UPDATE :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: adam on January 27, 2007, 10:58:29 AM
I don't think that Kim Jong-Il is that insane.

You're giving him a lot of credit.

Even the craziest of people don't do things that hurt themselves.

The thing of it is though, is that southern North Korea is quite scarecly populated. Any nuclear fallout would certainly fall short of Pyongyang. Even if a fairly good number of people in North Korea were to die as a result of detonation...does Kim Jong Il really strike you as a person who would care?


Title: Re: UPDATE :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on January 27, 2007, 10:12:33 PM
I don't think that Kim Jong-Il is that insane.

You're giving him a lot of credit.

Even the craziest of people don't do things that hurt themselves.

The thing of it is though, is that southern North Korea is quite scarecly populated. Any nuclear fallout would certainly fall short of Pyongyang. Even if a fairly good number of people in North Korea were to die as a result of detonation...does Kim Jong Il really strike you as a person who would care?

I suppose you could have a point, but it should also be noted that North Korea has a huge thing of artillery pointed at Seoul and can level the city in minutes by conventional means... I'm not sure why he wouldn't just make use of that instead of using a nuke.


Title: Re: UPDATE :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: adam on January 28, 2007, 12:05:48 AM
I don't think that Kim Jong-Il is that insane.

You're giving him a lot of credit.

Even the craziest of people don't do things that hurt themselves.

The thing of it is though, is that southern North Korea is quite scarecly populated. Any nuclear fallout would certainly fall short of Pyongyang. Even if a fairly good number of people in North Korea were to die as a result of detonation...does Kim Jong Il really strike you as a person who would care?

I suppose you could have a point, but it should also be noted that North Korea has a huge thing of artillery pointed at Seoul and can level the city in minutes by conventional means... I'm not sure why he wouldn't just make use of that instead of using a nuke.

Well, considering that it's just a story...I would imagine that it's for dramatic effect.


Title: Re: UPDATE :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on January 28, 2007, 12:08:34 AM
Well, considering that it's just a story...I would imagine that it's for dramatic effect.

Well yeah.  I'm just saying. :P


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: adam on January 28, 2007, 04:49:31 PM
Is this thread dying? :(


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 28, 2007, 04:51:49 PM
Not at all!  The next update will be tonight.


Title: UPDATED :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 28, 2007, 09:53:59 PM
One Minute to Midnight

()

President Clark, immediately after learning of the situation in North Korea, calls an immediate cabinet meeting.  In the meeting, several of Clark's advisors urge Clark to militarily strike North Korea.  Clark, however, is reluctant to use military force immediately, especially after seeing the disastrous results of President Barnes' attack on Iran a few years earlier.

Clark does, however, instruct the Secretary of Defense to notify the Joint Chiefs of Staff that they should prepare a strategy for war, should the need arise.  Several aircraft carriers from Hawaii are being transported to Japan, in anticipation of a military conflict.

Meanwhile, President Hu Jintao issues an ultimatum: If North Korea does not stand down within 24 hours, China will overthrow the North Korean government.  This statement only angers Kim Jong-Il, whose aides announce that such threats will only provoke the dictator into attacking.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe declares that Japan is prepared to go to war.  Abe says, "Not only do we believe that North Korea's missiles are too unreliable to strike Japan, we also know for a fact that the North Korean military is poorly armed.  Because of these two factors, we are prepared to go to war."

The South Korean government issues a similar statement.  A government official says, "Seoul would be an unwise target for Kim to hit, and he knows that.  But if he tries, we are ready to launch a full-scale air and ground invasion or North Korea."

President Clark, in desperation, pleads with the Chinese President to retract the ultimatum, believing it will lead to wider regional war, which would spark yet another world war.  Hu compromises; he extends the ultimatum to 48 hours. 

On May 8th, the North Korean government announces that it will stand down if, and only if, it is able to meet one-on-one with a high-level United States diplomat.  The North Korean government demands that this diplomat travel to North Korea, unaccompanied by security personnel.  Though the United States government would not usually honor such a request, President Clark feels as though honoring it would be a better option than allowing a nuclear war to begin.

However, Secretary of State Bill Richardson informs the President that he will not travel to a rogue, nuclear armed nation without security.  Vice President Richard Holbrooke, himself a former United Nations Ambassador, steps up to the plate.  At 4:00 P.M. on May 8th, Holbrooke departs for Pyongyang to meet with Kim Jong-Il. 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------
()

In the early morning hours of May 8th, a nuclear explosion rattles the countryside of northern South Korea.  In a largely unpopulated area approximately one hundred miles south of the border, the North Korean military unleashed the first nuclear attack in over six decades.  Fifteen South Koreans were killed, but the larger implications of this strike could lead to many more deaths.

The President of South Korea orders a full-scale air and ground invasion of North Korea.  Over 300,000 South Korean troops, accompanied by hundreds of fighter jets and bomber aircraft, storm the de-militarized zone.  Upon crossing the border, they are met by thousands of North Korean troops, and bloodshed ensues.  South Korean air force planes fly further into the country, bombing farms and countryside, but stopping short of Pyongyang.  Additionally, air force jets patrol Seoul, preparing to destroy an incoming missile.

Meanwhile, tens of thousands of Chinese forces are lining up on North Korea's northern border, preparing to invade if chaos ensues in the nation.  Japan is remaining quiet, unwilling to involve itself in a conflict which would require an immense sacrifice of ground troops.

The plane carrying Vice President Holbrooke, which is now in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, is ordered to land in Honolulu and await further orders.

Kim Jong-Il, perhaps realizing that he may soon be thrown out of power, orders the launch of nuclear missiles at Seoul, Tokyo, and Beijing.  The missiles aimed at Beijing and Tokyo disintegrate above the sea, while the missile aimed at Seoul falls just south of the border, resulting in the deaths of over two hundred South Korean soldiers, as well as the spreading of nuclear radiation from north of Seoul to south of Pyongyang.

================================================

North Korea's military leaders, realizing that their dictator is not acting in the best interests of the country, stage a military coup.  Thousands of soldiers raid Pyongyang, and several generals personally capture Kim Jong-Il and inform him that he will be overthrown.  At 11:30 P.M. EST on May 8th, 2008, Kim Jong-Il is executed by his own generals.  The execution was done by a bullet to the head.

()

Premier Pak Pong-ju is installed as the Interim Leader of North Korea.  Pak orders martial law over the country, and publicly asks South Korea and China to hold off on military attacks. 

Chinese President Hu Jintao orders his military to wait until sunrise the next day, and attack, seeing this as an opportunity for China to take over North Korean land.  The South Korean government does not reveal what its plans are.

President Clark asks Vice President Holbrooke to return to Washington, as he believes no diplomacy will matter now.  However, Holbrooke insists that he fly to Pyongyang.  Holbrooke believes that, if he is the first foreign diplomat to recognize and greet the new North Korean government, he could influence the new leader to adopt more pro-Western ways than his predecessor.

In the early hours of May 9th, 2008, Vice President Richard Holbrooke arrives in Pyongyang, where he is greeted personally by North Korean leader Pak Pong-ju.  The two discuss affairs and engage in small talk.  However, some substantial headway results.  Holbrooke convinces Pak to abandon North Korea's nuclear program, to allow his nation to be opened up to Western culture, and to end all human rights violations.  Pak surprisingly agrees.  In his words, an alliance with the United States of America will help his nation more than any military conflict. 

After the meeting, President Clark asks the governments of China, South Korea, and Japan to call off all attacks on North Korea, and to recognize the new government.  All nations do so. 

War has been averted, and a new alliance has been formed.

()
()

-----------------------------------------------
Next Update
Now that war has been averted, attention shifts back to the 2008 Presidential campaign.  There are only a few more updates until Election Night.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CultureKing on January 28, 2007, 10:49:35 PM
very good, I want more!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 29, 2007, 05:51:51 PM
This will be updated tonight.  There will only be a few more updates until Election Night 2008.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Soaring Eagle on January 29, 2007, 07:24:45 PM
Very interesting and believable. I look forward to seeing how this influences the Presidential race.


Title: UPDATED :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 29, 2007, 09:22:47 PM
Summer 2008

The actions of the Clark Administration, particularly of Vice President Holbrooke, are universally praised.

Rasmussen Reports
May 15th, 2008
Clark Approval Rating
Approve: 85%
Disapprove: 11%
Unsure: 4%

Following the conflict in North Korea, there is a renewed "Draft Holbrooke" campaign which attempts to take delegates away from the declared candidates and have them nominate Holbrooke for President.  However, Holbrooke once again affirms his commitment not to run for President or accept a nomination, and endorses Dick Durbin.

The campaign is largely quiet until July, when the conventions begin.  The Republican National Convention is held in Phoenix, Arizona, in honor of Arizona's native son, Jon Kyl.  The convention revolves around the "New American Century" theme that has been prevalent throughout the campaign season.  The keynote address, delivered by House Minority Leader Mike Pence, is widely praised, and, in many ways, overshadows the speeches by Jon Kyl and Tim Pawlenty.  Most pundits describe Kyl's speech as "safe" - using good language and sticking to the talking points, but not particularly bold or revolutionary.

The Democratic National Convention is held Chicago, home of native son Dick Durbin.  Early in the convention, delegates witness speeches Speaker Steny Hoyer and House Majority Leader Ed Markey which appear to attack President Clark's moderate domestic record.  The keynote address is given by Brad Henry, who urges all Democrats to unite behind the Durbin/Richardson ticket after a divisive primary season.  The speeches given by President Clark, Vice President Holbrooke, and Secretary of State and Vice Presidential nominee Bill Richardson are all widely praised.  In the three speeches, the men talk of the "Clark Record," which consists of bringing an end to World War III, solving a crisis in North Korea, and pursuing a centrist domestic agenda.  In his acceptance speech, Dick Durbin says, "We have seen what can be done when America is once again a world leader, and not a world cop."  Later in his speech, Durbin pledges to continue Clark's record.  The speech is widely hailed as the finest acceptance speech in decades.

Rasmussen Reports
September 1st, 2008
Presidential Election
Durbin: 43%
Kyl: 41%
Wellstone: 6%
DeLay: 2%
Undecided: 8%

The conventions have overshadowed the minor campaigns of Paul Wellstone and Tom DeLay.  DeLay, however, has been constantly making extremist remarks.  His campaign website tells of DeLay's plan to "Re-Christianize" America.  Political analyst Larry Sabato says in September, "DeLay's extremism makes Jon Kyl look moderate, and is probably helping him with moderate voters."

On September 10th, 2008, the dynamics of the race change.  Paul Wellstone ends his Presidential bid.  "I came in this race to make a statement - a statement that our nation could use some peace," says Wellstone.  "There is a candidate who shares the same vision, and his name is Dick Durbin."  After Durbin secured the nomination, Wellstone had difficulty raising funds and finding support, as he was largely unable to differentiate himself from the similarly liberal Durbin.  Wellstone's exit ensures that he will not act as a "spoiler" to Durbin in the election.

On September 15th, 2008, the debates will begin.

----------------------------------------------------------
Next Update
The debates - who will win and who will make a damning error?  Who will control Congress?  There are only a couple more updates until Election Night 2008.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: AndrewTX on January 30, 2007, 09:14:16 AM
Oh, looking REALLY good Yates. Can't wait till the next update.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Hash on January 30, 2007, 09:21:13 AM
Teacher Hash gives this work 100. Good job!

What would be helpful now is just a simple list of EVERY ticket: President and VP for all major candidates!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Bacon King on January 30, 2007, 05:35:15 PM
Now that North Korea isn't communist, will Korea re-unify?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 30, 2007, 09:14:15 PM
Bacon King, you will soon find out.

The next update will be tomorrow.  I have some work that must be finished tonight.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 31, 2007, 04:39:16 PM
A very long update will be posted tonight.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on January 31, 2007, 04:54:34 PM

()


Title: UPDATED :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 31, 2007, 10:43:48 PM
The Debates

Note: One question will be focused on in each debate.

First Presidential Debate

This debate focuses on foreign policy.  The questions will focus primarily on Iran, North Korea, and general United States foreign policy.  The anchor is Jim Lehrer.

LEHRER: This question is for Senator Kyl.  Senator, in the past, you have spoken in support of United States military action.  You supported the Iraq War, initially supporting President Barnes’ attack on Iran, and you urged President Clark to attack North Korea.  Under what conditions would you, as President, bring this nation to war?

KYL: Thank you for the question, Jim.  When you look at my record that you just summarized, you can see that I’ve supported wars which seemed necessary at the time.  In 2002, I believed that Saddam Hussein was a direct threat to us.  In 2005, I believed that Iran’s nuclear program threatened us.  And, recently, I felt that Kim Jong-Il was a threat to our national interests.  I will make a promise tonight to the American people: I will never bring this nation to war unless there is a direct threat to our national interests.  If any other nation or any terrorist group threatens us, I will never hesitate to use our full military might to protect this nation.  However, I will not be careless.  I won’t use the Barnes method and attack nations on a whim.  You can expect a Kyl Administration to be firm, but cautious, when taking this nation to war.

Vice Presidential Debate

This debate, between Tim Pawlenty and Bill Richardson, is moderated by Gwen Ifil.

IFIL: This question is the same for both candidates.  Gentlemen, if the time comes when you must ascend to the Presidency, what would be the first thing you would do?

PAWLENTY: Gwen, I pray that I will never ascend to the Presidency, except for in an election. (Laughter)  In all seriousness, the first thing I will do is say a prayer.  I would pray for guidance and wisdom.  I would then gather an emergency meeting with my cabinet, my top advisors, and Congressional leaders to discuss immediate policy.  If, God forbid, the President was assassinated, or there was some terrorist activity, I would need to respond quickly and efficiently.  And generally, I would be an active President.  If I ascend to the Presidency, I would not have been elected to the post, but I will serve the American people as if they elected me.  I would be a strong President, but one who is open to compromise.

RICHARDSON: I agree with Tim; if I became President suddenly and unexpectedly, I would first of all pray to the Lord.  I would then seek to establish myself as the new leader.  Like Tim said, I would hold a cabinet meeting.  I would meet with advisors to begin establishing administration policy.  I would meet with leaders in Congress.  However, and I think most importantly, within my first few days in office, I would address the American people to help them get to know me better.  I, too, would be an active President, but I would never lose my contacts with the American people.

Second Presidential Debate

This debate is a “Town Hall” debate, in which audience members may ask questions.

AUDIENCE MEMBER: This question is for both candidates.  How similar would your Presidency be to that of President Clark?

DURBIN: Thanks for the question.  I firmly believe that President Wesley Clark has been the greatest President in the past half century, definitely the best President in the past decade.  He should be a model for every future President to abide by.  As Senate Majority Leader, I have been instrumental in getting much of President Clark’s agenda passed, and, as President, I would continue the Clark style of getting things done by building bridges across party lines.  As leader of the Senate, I have worked with people such as my opponent, Senator Kyl, to pass legislation which is important for America’s future.  As President, I will continue that tradition.

KYL: Well, let me say that it’s pretty amusing to hear Senator Durbin talk about his role in getting President Clark’s policy passed in Congress, because, as far as I can recall, he opposed most of it.  When President Clark submitted his domestic agenda for earlier this year, it was I, and the Republicans in Congress, who were the primary supporters.  I, personally, rallied those in my party to support every single piece of the President’s agenda.  Senator Durbin and his liberal friends in the House actually didn’t support most of it.  Over a hundred Democrats in the House voted against President Clark’s balanced budget proposal, for example, because they felt it would make government too small.  My record over the past two years is supporting President Clark, and truly reaching across party lines, and that is a record I will be proud to continue as President.

Third Presidential Debate

This debate, moderated by Bob Schieffer, will focus on domestic policy.

SCHIEFFER: Senator Durbin, though you haven’t been exactly clear on the issue, you seem to at least tacitly support President Clark’s proposed balanced budget amendment.  Which programs would you, as President, cut to achieve the goal of a balanced budget?

DURBIN: Well, Bob, I’ll begin by saying that I firmly support the balanced budget, and I will do whatever I can to achieve it, as you can see by my votes in Congress.  Let me be blunt: I will cut military funding.  We are spending too much money on the military, which is run by an inefficient bureaucracy headquartered in the Pentagon.  I won’t authorize a dime to be spent on military waste, money that just goes nowhere.  I will decrease the military budget by 50% in my first term in office.  I will not cut any social programs, including welfare, Medicare/Medicaid, and social security.  We need to be looking for solutions to our budget problems that don’t screw over the American people.


Rasmussen Reports
October 15th, 2008
Post-Debate Polls
Which ticket won the debates?
Kyl/Pawlenty: 65%
Durbin/Richardson: 30%
Unsure: 5%

Durbin’s blunt statement about military funding, as well as his questionable language, hurt him, but Bill Richardson’s gravitas in the Vice Presidential debate helped the ticket slightly.  In addition, Kyl’s attacks on Durbin’s record secured his victories in the debates.

Next Update
There is only one more update left until Election Night 2008.  Prepare for some last minute surprises, and then the real-time election night finale.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: SPC on January 31, 2007, 10:52:03 PM
Will you be posting Senate results as well?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 31, 2007, 10:55:29 PM
Will you be posting Senate results as well?

I will most likely mention some of these on Election Night.  The House races will be mentioned in detail, however, as the House balance is up for grabs.  Speaker Hoyer or Speaker Pence - take your pick! :)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: AndrewTX on February 01, 2007, 08:33:08 AM
OMGZ! Another great update!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Hash on February 01, 2007, 10:35:54 AM
Yeah this is so good right now? Yates can I have that full list of tickets from most/all parties running?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 01, 2007, 05:11:53 PM
Thank you all.

Hashemite, the tickets running in this election are:

Republican: Jon Kyl/Tim Pawlenty
Democratic: Dick Durbin/Bill Richardson
Consitution: Tom DeLay/Jim Gilchrist

An Independent ticket of Paul Wellstone/Dennis Kucinich was running, but dropped out and endorsed Durbin.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: adam on February 01, 2007, 07:10:26 PM
Who has the prohibition party nominated for president? :P


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 01, 2007, 08:34:19 PM
Who has the prohibition party nominated for president? :P

Artist Gene Admondson.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Hash on February 02, 2007, 06:27:25 AM
Is Ralph Nader running?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 03, 2007, 06:14:28 PM
Announcement

Unfortunately, my internet is having problems (Comcast is not Comcastic!).  Therefore, the final update and Election Night 2008 must be delayed.  As of now, I am planning for the final update to take place on Tuesday, with Election Night 2008 taking place on Wednesday.  I am sorry for the inconvenience.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Hash on February 04, 2007, 01:22:35 AM
My internet service over here is not much better either, atleast it's been quite a while since it flopped...Anyways, I can't wait for an update~


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 05, 2007, 05:17:27 PM
There will be an update tonight, the final true update before Election Night 2008, which will be Wednesday.


Title: UPDATED :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 05, 2007, 11:07:06 PM
The Eleventh Hour

It is one week until Election Day, and the race seems tighter than ever before.  In the vast majority of polls, Senator Jon Kyl and Senator Dick Durbin are virtually tied, almost always within the margin of error of being tied.  The electoral college projections show a dead heat, with both candidates likely to obtain 250 or more electoral votes.  Tom DeLay’s campaign is seeming not to have the spoiler effect once feared by Kyl.

Four days before the election, the Kyl campaign releases a final advertisement in several of the key swing states.  The advertisement features revolving clips of President Clark and Jon Kyl speaking, featuring Kyl largely affirming the statements made by President Clark.  In a similar ad, released simultaneously, clips are shown of Dick Durbin vowing to oppose several parts of Clark’s domestic agenda, and several lines which may be interpreted as being against the President.  The ad has a very positive effect for Kyl.

Congress

It seems increasingly likely that the Republicans will win a majority in the House of Representatives.  House Minority Leader Mike Pence has created an “Agenda for the New American Century,” in line with the theme of the Kyl campaign.  The Republicans’ clear message, combined with their vocal support of President Clark, have made them the odds-on favorite to win the House.

The Senate appears likely to remain in Democratic hands.  Freshman Senator Harold Ford has become the new face of the Democratic Party.  He has campaigned across the country for Democratic Senate candidates, and is one of the reasons they have been able to maintain the lead in polls for the Senate.

Predictions

Kyl Victory
Rasmussen Reports
Cook Political Report
Fred Barnes
Bob Novak
Electoralvote.com
Politics1.com

Durbin Victory
Stu Rothenberg
Larry Sabato

Final Nationwide Poll

Rasmussen Reports
November 3rd, 2008
Popular Vote
Kyl: 48%
Durbin: 46%
DeLay: 1%
Undecided: 5%

-----------------------------------------------------

Tomorrow Night
Tomorrow’s update will be an election preview.  I will provide polls from all fifty states, as well as hints as to which states will be important on election night.

Wednesday Night

Election Night 2008

Prepare for real time coverage of Election Night 2008, lasting from 7 P.M. – 1 A.M., at which time you will know who will be the 46th President of the United States.  It will be a nailbiter. . .


Title: UPDATED :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 06, 2007, 10:32:59 PM
Election Night Preview

(
)

Strong Kyl: 181
Total Kyl: 197
Tossup: 116
Total Durbin: 225
Strong Durbin: 168

States to watch:
Ohio
Will Durbin appeal to those upset with Ohio Republicans?

Florida
The perennial swing state - whoever wins Florida will likely win the election.

Pennsylvania
If Kyl wins this state, he is likely to win the entire election.

West Virginia
Durbin may be too partisan for this traditionally Democratic state.

Colorado
A Democratic victory here could be a definite sign that the West is turning Democratic.

Missouri
If Durbin wins Missouri, he will win the entire Midwest.

--------------------------------------------------------
TOMORROW :: ELECTION NIGHT 2008

Who will be our next President?

From 7 P.M. to 1 A.M., live returns will be coming in.

Prepare for a nailbiter, folks. . .


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Kevin on February 07, 2007, 09:39:32 AM
Looks good and I can't wait till the results come in!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: AndrewTX on February 07, 2007, 09:47:08 AM
Me so happy, me love these updates!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 05:10:17 PM
Final predictions, anyone?


Title: ELECTION NIGHT 2008 :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 05:37:13 PM
MSNBC Live Coverage
Election Night 2008


Good evening and welcome to what will definitely be an exciting night!  Throughout the night, we will be bringing you up-to-the-minute, live results.  Before the excitement begins, we’re going to bring in our panel to discuss what is likely to happen tonight.  Please welcome former Congressman Steve Largent, Treasury Secretary Jack Lew, and columnist Maureen Dowd.

HOST: Congressman Largent, let’s start with you.  What are you expecting to see tonight?

LARGENT: I’m anticipating a solid victory for Jon Kyl.  I think he will get over 52% of the vote.  DeLay will be under 1%, and won’t affect Kyl much.  I think we Republicans are going to take the House and maybe the Senate.  It’s going to be a great night for the Grand Old Party.

HOST: Maureen, it’s looking likely that the Republicans are going to take the House.  Would you agree with that?

DOWD: Sadly, yes.  Mike Pence is great with “the message.”  He put out a very convincing agenda, supported Clark on key policy points, and shifted public opinion towards the Republican Party.  The Senate is going to stay Democratic, largely due to the efforts of Senator Harold Ford.  I’d love to see a Pence vs. Ford race for President one day.

HOST: Secretary Lew, one of the things Durbin was attacked on what his seeming lack of support for President Clark.  Being in the administration, what is your point of view?

LEW: Look, there has been no one as supportive of our administration as Dick Durbin.  Behind the scenes, he’s been working hard to get the Democratic agenda passed.  He’s done a great job of whipping votes.  However, in public, he was singing a different tune, and I can see how some people would think that he opposed lots of the Clark agenda.  He did the right things, but he didn’t concentrate enough on public opinion.

HOST: Alright, all three of you, what is the state that will determine victory for either candidate?

LARGENT: Minnesota.  If Kyl wins Minnesota, which he may because Tim Pawlenty is on the ticket, he will win the election.

DOWD: Colorado.  If Dick Durbin wins Colorado, he wins the election.  It’s as simple as that.

LEW: I’m a policymaker, not a politician.  I have no idea. (Laughter)

HOST: With that, we’ll say goodbye to our panel for a while.  We may bring them back later.  Stay tuned – in a few minutes, we’ll go over our electoral map.


Election Night 2008


Title: Election Night 2008 :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 05:54:31 PM
Election Night 2008

Welcome back.  It’s time to bring out our electoral map.

(
)

As the night progresses, this map will be filled with red and blue, red for Senator Kyl and blue for Senator Durbin. 

Every hour, and in some half hours, we’ll be able to make calls when polls in a certain state close.  However, many, many states will be too close to call at first.  Those are the ones that will keep us up late into the night.

We’ll also be keeping a tally below of the amount of electoral votes each candidate has.  Remember, 270 are needed to win.

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 0
Durbin: 0


7:00 – The first results of Election 2008 will come in!

Election Night 2008


Title: LIVE RESULTS :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 06:58:06 PM
Election Night 2008

Welcome to MSNBC’s live coverage of Election Night 2008.  It’s time to call our very first states.  At this time, we can call the following states.

PRESIDENT
Indiana
()
[X] Jon Kyl

PRESIDENT
Kentucky
()
[X] Jon Kyl

PRESIDENT
Georgia
()
[X] Jon Kyl

PRESIDENT
South Carolina
()
[X] Jon Kyl

PRESIDENT
Vermont
()
[X] Dick Durbin

This updates our electoral map like so:

(
)

Jon Kyl now has 42 electoral votes, and Dick Durbin has 3.  This will tighten up.  None of these calls were unexpected.  At this time, however, we can add three states to our “Too Close to Call” category: Florida, Virginia, and New Hampshire.  We’ll keep you updated as the night goes on.

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 42
Durbin: 3


Election Night 2008


Title: VIRGINIA :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 07:09:39 PM
Election Night 2008

At this time, we can now call the state of Virginia.

PRESIDENT
Virginia
()
[X] Jon Kyl

This was not very unexpected, though the speed at which it was called is good news for the Kyl campaign, and it brings up Senator Kyl’s electoral vote total to 55.

(
)

Florida and New Hampshire remain too close to call.  At 7:30, polls will close in North Carolina, West Virginia, and Ohio.  Stay tuned.

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 55
Durbin: 3


Election Night 2008


Title: LIVE RESULTS :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 07:28:09 PM
Election Night 2008

Polls have now closed in North Carolina, West Virginia, and Ohio.  We can tell you now that West Virginia and Ohio have joined Florida and New Hampshire in the “Too Close to Call” category, but we can call North Carolina.

PRESIDENT
North Carolina
()
[X] Jon Kyl

This brings Senator Kyl’s total to 70, and it makes our electoral map look like this.

(
)

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 70
Durbin: 3


Election Night 2008


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Platypus on February 07, 2007, 07:50:48 PM
Looking good :)


Title: LIVE RESULTS :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 07:58:41 PM
Election Night 2008

It’s 8’o’clock and we have several states to call at this time.

PRESIDENT
Alabama
()
[X] Jon Kyl

PRESIDENT
Kansas
()
[X] Jon Kyl

PRESIDENT
Mississippi
()
[X] Jon Kyl

PRESIDENT
Oklahoma
()
[X] Jon Kyl

PRESIDENT
Tennessee
()
[X] Jon Kyl

PRESIDENT
Texas
()
[X] Jon Kyl

We also have a round of states to call for Senator Durbin.

PRESIDENT
Connecticut
()
[X] Dick Durbin

PRESIDENT
Delaware
()
[X] Dick Durbin

PRESIDENT
District of Columbia
()
[X] Dick Durbin

PRESIDENT
Illinois
()
[X] Dick Durbin

PRESIDENT
Maine
()
[X] Dick Durbin

PRESIDENT
Maryland
()
[X] Dick Durbin

PRESIDENT
Massachusetts
()
[X] Dick Durbin

PRESIDENT
New Jersey
()
[X] Dick Durbin

We can also add Michigan, Missouri, and Pennsylvania to our “Too Close to Call” category.

Our electoral map now looks massively different.

(
)

None of the states called so far were major surprises, but we have a group of states in that are too close to call at this time that could change everything.

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 143
Durbin: 78


Election Night 2008


Title: MICHIGAN :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 08:06:44 PM
Election Night 2008

We can now make a call in the state of Michigan.

PRESIDENT
Michigan
()
[X] Dick Durbin

Durbin, being from the Midwest, was expected to carry the state, and he did.  This is good news for the Durbin camp.

(
)

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 143
Durbin: 95


Election Night 2008


Title: ARKANSAS :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 08:28:30 PM
Election Night 2008

We are now able to project that Senator Jon Kyl has won the state of Arkansas.

PRESIDENT
Arkansas
()
[X] Jon Kyl

This is not a surprise, and barely affects our electoral tally.

(
)

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 149
Durbin: 95

Election Night 2008


Title: LIVE RESULTS :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 08:58:57 PM
Election Night 2008

It’s time to call another large group of states.

PRESIDENT
Arizona
()
[X] Jon Kyl

PRESIDENT
Louisiana
()
[X] Jon Kyl

PRESIDENT
Nebraska
()
[X] Jon Kyl

PRESIDENT
South Dakota
()
[X] Jon Kyl

PRESIDENT
Wyoming
()
[X] Jon Kyl

And, for Senator Durbin:

PRESIDENT
New York
()
[X] Dick Durbin

PRESIDENT
Rhode Island
()
[X] Dick Durbin

Let’s see how these projections affect our map:

(
)

We should note that many states were added to our “Too Close to Call” list – Colorado, Minnesota, New Mexico, and Wisconsin.  As soon as we are able to project winners in these states, we will let you know.

It’s interesting to note that Tom DeLay is capturing a larger percentage of the vote than expected.  He has captured about 3% of the current recorded votes, with Kyl and Durbin each getting about 48%.

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 179
Durbin: 130


Election Night 2008


Title: NEW MEXICO :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 09:56:09 PM
Election Night 2008

We are now prepared to call the state of New Mexico.

PRESIDENT
New Mexico
()
[X] Dick Durbin

Even though Jon Kyl’s home state is right next door, Bill Richardson’s presence on the Democratic ticket carried the state fairly easily for Durbin.

(
)

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 179
Durbin: 135


Election Night 2008


Title: LIVE RESULTS :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 10:01:57 PM
Election Night 2008

We can now call three states for Senator Kyl.

PRESIDENT
Idaho
()
[X] Jon Kyl

PRESIDENT
North Dakota
()
[X] Jon Kyl

PRESIDENT
Utah
()
[X] Jon Kyl

None of these were unexpected, but we now have a few new too close to calls – Iowa, Montana, Nevada, and Oregon.

(
)

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 191
Durbin: 135


Election Night 2008


Title: MAJOR PROJECTION :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 10:16:59 PM
Election Night 2008

We now have a major projection to make.  Senator Jon Kyl has won the state of Ohio.

PRESIDENT
Ohio
()
[X] Jon Kyl

This is a major victory – one of the FL-PA-OH trifecta that wins elections.  It also puts Jon Kyl over 200 electoral votes, only 51 away from the White House.

(
)

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 211
Durbin: 135


Election Night 2008


Title: FLORIDA :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 10:25:59 PM
Election Night 2008

We have a second major projection to make.  Senator Jon Kyl has won the state of Florida.

PRESIDENT
Florida
()
[X] Jon Kyl

In the last election, Florida was the state which gave then-Governor Barnes a victory.  This is certainly fantastic news for the Kyl campaign, and disastrous news for the Durbin campaign.  Durbin’s team must have thought, with Bill Richardson’s Latino-ism, he would appeal in Florida.  Obviously, it didn’t work very well.

(
)

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 238
Durbin: 135


Election Night 2008


Title: MONTANA :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 10:30:22 PM
Election Night 2008

We can now project a winner in the state of Montana.

PRESIDENT
Montana
()
[X] Jon Kyl

Durbin should be proud that he kept it too close to call for nearly half-an-hour.  It’s a sign of the Democrats’ growing strength in the West.  We’ll be looking at Nevada and Colorado to measure the same thing.

(
)

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 241
Durbin: 135


Election Night 2008


Title: WISCONSIN :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 10:33:23 PM
Election Night 2008

We can now safely project that Senator Dick Durbin has won the state of Wisconsin.

PRESIDENT
Wisconsin
()
[X] Dick Durbin

Wisconsin neighbors Durbin’s home state of Illinois, so this is not very unexpected.  Still, after a round of major victories for Jon Kyl, this is at least one bit of good news for the Durbin campaign.

(
)

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 241
Durbin: 145


Election Night 2008


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CultureKing on February 07, 2007, 10:37:41 PM
this is good, your keeping me on my toes!


Title: IOWA :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 10:43:11 PM
Election Night 2008

We are now able to project a winner in the state of Iowa.

PRESIDENT
State
()
[X] Dick Durbin

Like Wisconsin, Iowa is a border state of Illinois, so Durbin initially had the upper edge here.

(
)

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 241
Durbin: 152


Election Night 2008


Title: LIVE RESULTS :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 11:00:11 PM
Election Night 2008

We now have some big prizes to give to the Durbin campaign.

PRESIDENT
California
()
[X] Dick Durbin

PRESIDENT
Hawaii
()
[X] Dick Durbin

PRESIDENT
Washington
()
[X] Dick Durbin

California is solidly Democratic.  In a way, Washington and Hawaii are too, but Durbin’s quick victories here are a good sign.  Oregon is too close to call at this time.

(
)

These victories also dramatically tighten the electoral vote tally.

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 241
Durbin: 222


Election Night 2008


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on February 07, 2007, 11:02:34 PM
I think it's fairly evident that Kyl will win, given that otherwise this will have had multiple Democratic victories in a row, but you're doing a very good job keeping it interesting nonetheless. :)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 11:06:24 PM
Election Night 2008

We are now ready to make a major projection.  The state of Colorado will be won by Senator Dick Durbin.

PRESIDENT
Colorado
()
[X] Dick Durbin

This victory is a symbol of the Democratic Party’s new strength in the West.

(
)

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 241
Durbin: 231


Election Night 2008


Title: OREGON :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 11:18:04 PM
Election Night 2008

We are now ready to project that Dick Durbin has won the state of Oregon.  No real surprise here.

PRESIDENT
Oregon
()
[X] Dick Durbin

The electoral college is closer than anytime this evening.

(
)

Electoral Vote Count
Kyl: 241
Durbin: 238


Election Night 2008


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: SPC on February 07, 2007, 11:20:06 PM
Minnesota and Pennsylvania will decided the election.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on February 07, 2007, 11:20:21 PM
I'm gonna go out on a ledge and say that everything will probably come down to Minnesota, which Kyl will then win.


Title: MISSOURI :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 11:25:01 PM
Election Night 2008

We are now ready to make a very important projection.  Senator Dick Durbin has won the state of Missouri.

PRESIDENT
Missouri
()
[X] Dick Durbin

Not only is Missouri usually a bellwhether state, it is also one of the key states in the Midwest.  Durbin’s home state is really helping him out, helping him win Wisconsin, Iowa, and now Missouri.  Tim Pawlenty’s status as a Midwesterner does not seem to be helping his ticket at all.

(
)

For the first time tonight, Dick Durbin is leading in the electoral vote tally.

Electoral Vote Tally
Durbin: 249
Kyl: 241


Election Night 2008


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Hash on February 07, 2007, 11:27:27 PM
Durbin! Durbin! DURBIN!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CultureKing on February 07, 2007, 11:27:51 PM
can we have an update on the popular vote?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: SPC on February 07, 2007, 11:30:58 PM
Pennsylvania will give Durbin the election.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 11:31:33 PM
can we have an update on the popular vote?

Nationwide Popular Vote
(As of this moment)
Dick Durbin: 48.13%
Jon Kyl: 48.07%
Tom DeLay: 3.49%
Other: 0.31%


Title: MINNESOTA :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 11:34:57 PM
Election Night 2008

It’s time to project a winner in the last undecided Midwestern state.

PRESIDENT
Minnesota
()
[X] Dick Durbin

This is the home state of Republican Vice-Presidential nominee Tim Pawlenty, and the Kyl campaign expected to win this, along with several other Midwestern states.  It seems as though Durbin has swept through the Midwest, shattering the hopes of the Republican ticket.

(
)

Electoral Vote Tally
Durbin: 259
Kyl: 241


Election Night 2008


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: SPC on February 07, 2007, 11:40:08 PM
If Durbin wins NV, WV, and NH, he will win. Kyl can only afford for Durbin to win two of these states, with Kyl winning PA.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Hash on February 07, 2007, 11:45:09 PM
I predict a slight Durbin victory.


Title: PENNSYLVANIA :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 11:45:41 PM
Election Night 2008

We now have a huge projection to make.  Senator Jon Kyl will win the state of Pennsylvania.

PRESIDENT
Pennsylvania
()
[X] Jon Kyl

This traditionally Democratic state is part of the trifecta which usually wins Presidential elections.  With this victory, Kyl has attained all three states in the trifecta.  He could still lose the election, but he is in fine shape, once again taking an electoral vote lead.

(
)

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 262
Durbin: 259


Election Night 2008


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CultureKing on February 07, 2007, 11:48:55 PM
I'm not sure if I am counting wrong, but shouldn't Kyl have 265 electoral votes?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 11:49:47 PM
I'm not sure if I am counting wrong, but shouldn't Kyl have 265 electoral votes?

You are prematurely counting Alaska, most likely. :)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: SPC on February 07, 2007, 11:50:11 PM
Will you be posting exit polls for NV, WV, NH, and AK, or would that just take more time?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CultureKing on February 07, 2007, 11:51:10 PM
I'm not sure if I am counting wrong, but shouldn't Kyl have 265 electoral votes?

You are prematurely counting Alaska, most likely. :)

oh yes, your right, sorry bout that


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 11:53:45 PM
Will you be posting exit polls for NV, WV, NH, and AK, or would that just take more time?


I will post exit polls before the last state.


Title: ALASKA :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 07, 2007, 11:59:35 PM
Election Night 2008

We can now project that Jon Kyl has won the state of Alaska.  This is hardly a surprise.

PRESIDENT
Alaska
()
[X] Jon Kyl

(
)

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 265
Durbin: 259


Election Night 2008


Title: TWO STATES LEFT :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 08, 2007, 12:06:37 AM
Election Night 2008

We can now make a call in New Hampshire.  New Hampshire has been one of the closest states during this entire evening, and now, with 99% of precincts reporting, we can make a call.

PRESIDENT
New Hamsphire
()
[X] Dick Durbin

Now, the only two states remaining are Nevada and West Virginia.  If Jon Kyl wins either one, he wins the election.

(
)

Electoral Vote Tally
Kyl: 265
Durbin: 263


Election Night 2008


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Hash on February 08, 2007, 12:08:44 AM
Durbin 2008!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gabu on February 08, 2007, 12:11:06 AM
Well, there goes one of my two predictions. :P


Title: ONE STATE LEFT :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 08, 2007, 12:14:22 AM
Election Night 2008

We can now project a winner in Nevada.

PRESIDENT
Nevada
()
[X] Dick Durbin

Win or lose, Dick Durbin will be known as the first Democratic candidate to truly win the West in a long time.  He won New Mexico, Colorado, Nevada, and the Pacific coast.  This is an extraordinarily accomplishment.

(
)

With this victory, Durbin once again takes the lead in the electoral vote tally.

Electoral Vote Tally
Durbin: 268
Kyl: 265


It all comes down to West Virginia.

Election Night 2008


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CultureKing on February 08, 2007, 12:16:11 AM
go DURBIN!!!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Hash on February 08, 2007, 12:17:17 AM
Who's leading WV?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Hash on February 08, 2007, 12:20:21 AM
DURBIN!!!! Come on!!!! Come on!!!! We want Durbin for President!!!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 08, 2007, 12:23:59 AM
West Virginia Exit Polls

Which factor contributed most to your vote today?
Economic Issues: 39%
National Security issues: 28%
Social Issues: 19%
Other: 14%

Do you believe the country is headed in the right direction?
Yes: 67%
No: 20%
Unsure: 13%

Voter Information

Female: 51%
Male: 49%

>65: 33%
50-65%: 29%
35-49: 21%
18-34: 17%

West Virginia results will be posted at 12:30.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Hash on February 08, 2007, 12:28:01 AM
Come on Durbin! Win this one please!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Robespierre's Jaw on February 08, 2007, 12:28:44 AM
I reckon it'll be a Durbin victory, and god all mighty this election night has kept me on the edge of my seat.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: SPC on February 08, 2007, 12:29:21 AM
Sorry, but I think that if this were a real race, Kyl would win WV. And I think that will happen in this post too.


Title: We have a winner. :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 08, 2007, 12:30:24 AM
Election Night 2008

We have a winner.

Winning the state of West Virginia
-and-
The 2008 Presidential Election


()
Jon Kyl
46th President of the United States

(
)

This was the closest election in United States history.  Jon Kyl won the popular vote by less than one tenth of a percentage point, and won the electoral college vote by only two votes.

()

I hoped you have enjoyed reading the 2005-2008 section of my timeline as much as I have enjoyed writing it.

Yates


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Hash on February 08, 2007, 12:31:34 AM
Ahh... Too bad... How's the Senate, Governors, and House now?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 08, 2007, 12:32:24 AM
Ahh... Too bad... How's the Senate, Governors, and House now?

I will be making a comprehensive post on all of those races tomorrow afternoon.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CultureKing on February 08, 2007, 12:32:37 AM
very good (though I wanted a Barnes win), this was a very exciting election


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CultureKing on February 08, 2007, 12:34:10 AM
very good (though I wanted a Barnes win), this was a very exciting election
whoops, strike Barnes and insert Durbin, wrong election


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Kevin on February 08, 2007, 05:28:48 AM
Excellent job well done Yates!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: AndrewTX on February 08, 2007, 07:41:56 AM
Awsome!  That was a nail biter.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Gustaf on February 08, 2007, 09:55:08 AM
I just saw this, but I must say, excellent work. Very thorough. :) And exciting too.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: YRABNNRM on February 08, 2007, 10:54:23 AM
Excellent! Bring on the rest!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Soaring Eagle on February 08, 2007, 10:01:57 PM
Great work on 2008, I enjoyed reading it. Durbin may not have won, but he is still 1/2 of what makes Illinois' Senate delegation the best.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Reaganfan on February 09, 2007, 11:55:19 AM
Whoo-hooo! Go Kyl!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 09, 2007, 04:47:40 PM
Great work on 2008, I enjoyed reading it. Durbin may not have won, but he is still 1/2 of what makes Illinois' Senate delegation the best.

Thank you for your kind comments.

Senator Durbin was up for re-election in 2008, but chose to run for President instead.  He was replaced in the Senate by Comptroller Dan Hynes.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 12, 2007, 09:51:54 PM
Tomorrow, the 2009-2012 period begins.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: TomC on February 12, 2007, 10:18:41 PM
This is good stuff.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: YRABNNRM on February 15, 2007, 09:59:27 AM
I think I can say that we're all waiting with excitement, Yates.


Title: UPDATED :: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 15, 2007, 09:51:21 PM
The Leaders

President: Jon Kyl
Vice President: Tim Pawlenty

Speaker of the House: Mike Pence
House Majority Leader: John Shadegg
House Majority Whip: Jeb Hensarling
House Minority Leader: Ed Markey
House Minority Whip: Rahm Emanuel

Senate Majority Leader: Chuck Schumer
Senate Majority Whip: Harold Ford
Senate Minority Leader: John Ensign
Senate Minority Whip: Kay Bailey Hutchinson

The first true update will come tomorrow.  Tonight's update was merely to give you all a look at who will be the major players in this section of the timeline.



Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Silent Hunter on February 16, 2007, 10:55:21 AM
Can I just say, this is a very good piece of work. Well done.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on February 21, 2007, 11:28:10 PM
My friends, I am sorry that I have not updated this in over a week.  Please allow me some more time, but this is not dead, and not over. 


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: AndrewTX on May 03, 2007, 12:34:58 PM
*COUGH*

 Sorry, must be some dust in my throat. I keep coughing.

*COUGH*COUGH*


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Hash on May 03, 2007, 12:50:23 PM
Have you heard what happened to poor Yates?

It's sad to think about that when viewing the work on here.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: AndrewTX on May 03, 2007, 02:16:58 PM
No, I haven't heard anything.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: TommyC1776 on May 03, 2007, 02:21:39 PM
Have you heard what happened to poor Yates?

It's sad to think about that when viewing the work on here.

What happened ???


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Hash on May 03, 2007, 02:40:03 PM
Brain tumor according to a thread posted in Forum Community.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: SPC on May 03, 2007, 10:09:09 PM
I hope Yates continues this great work in the time he has left. It'd be sad to see him go with this piece unfinished. :(


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: AndrewTX on May 03, 2007, 10:10:09 PM
Brain tumor according to a thread posted in Forum Community.

 I didn't hear that. I hope all is well with him. He's quite the talented person.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: SPC on May 07, 2007, 06:49:55 PM
Can a moderator lock this thread? I doubt that Yates will be updating this. :(


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CPT MikeyMike on May 07, 2007, 06:55:34 PM
Can a moderator lock this thread? I doubt that Yates will be updating this. :(

Sadly I concur.

But I will say that this (and J.J's Nixon TL) was the best TL I have ever read. This will be one we'll never forget!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: SPC on May 07, 2007, 06:58:04 PM
Can a moderator lock this thread? I doubt that Yates will be updating this. :(

Sadly I concur.

But I will say that this (and J.J's Nixon TL) was the best TL I have ever read. This will be one we'll never forget!

Yes, it truly was a good timeline. Too bad it remains unfinished. :(


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Robespierre's Jaw on May 07, 2007, 10:20:18 PM
It will be in the Atlasia What-If Hall of Fame if there is ever one. A truly great timeline.

What's this J.J's Nixon TL I keep on hearing about? Where can I find this?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: CPT MikeyMike on May 08, 2007, 12:33:45 PM
It will be in the Atlasia What-If Hall of Fame if there is ever one. A truly great timeline.

What's this J.J's Nixon TL I keep on hearing about? Where can I find this?

In the Alternate timeline...

https://uselectionatlas.org/FORUM/index.php?topic=31287.0

A great piece, IMO.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Hash on April 10, 2009, 08:44:27 AM
Yates was a fraud.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Psychic Octopus on December 24, 2009, 07:56:52 PM
BUMP


Why? How?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: AndrewTX on December 24, 2009, 08:04:14 PM

Because he played everyone for a sap, like an asshole. I cant even begin to explain it, I'm sure someone else will, but I cant think of a single person who was active when Yates was here who wasnt, and might still be pissed at him.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 27, 2010, 05:06:43 PM
An update will be posted tonight.  I thank readers for accepting me back and for your interest.  I look forward to the continuation and completion of this timeline.  It is the reason I have returned.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 27, 2010, 05:22:57 PM
As a reminder, we will be resuming where the timeline left off after the election of Jon Kyl as President in 2008.  This is not to self-promote, but I would urge anyone who plans to follow this timeline to read it up until this point.  The world in this timeline operates independently from real life and much of what will happen is a result of what I have written in the past twenty or so pages. 


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: tmthforu94 on December 27, 2010, 05:25:05 PM
I've already read it today. :) Looking forward to tonight's installment!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 27, 2010, 06:35:27 PM
The dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present. –Abraham Lincoln

AMERICA: 2000 - 2016

THE INAUGURATION OF PRESIDENT JON KYL

()

January 20, 2009 marks the end of Wesley Clark’s Presidency.  Scholars, politicians, diplomats, and the American public all agree that his tenure as President has been among the most successful in United States history.  A few days earlier, President Clark had delivered his farewell address to the American people, urging his successor to aim for a more peaceful world.  “If history teaches us one lesson: peace and prosperity are brothers,” says Clark.  The soon-to-be-former President intends to retire quietly after a long and dignified career of serving his nation.

As the era of Clark and Holbrooke concludes, President-elect Jon Kyl and Vice President-elect Tim Pawlenty seek to create their own legacy.  As new Speaker of the House Mike Pence has built the Republican campaign on, Kyl seeks to make the 21st century the “new American century,” ensuring the United States remains the dominant world force in the decades to come.  Modeling his White House after his predecessor’s, Kyl creates a trio who will effectively govern the nation.  Vice President Pawlenty will be overseeing domestic policy.  Treasury Secretary-designate Christopher Cox, one of Kyl’s rivals for the 2008 Republican nomination, will be overseeing economic policy.  Finally, Secretary of State Bill Richardson will be continuing in his role in a bipartisan manner, charged by the incoming President to cement America’s role as the leader of the free world.

Despite the unity of the executive branch, Congress appears to be heading towards a renewal of hostilities from the days not long ago when Jon Kyl and Dick Durbin led their parties into battle before every vote.  House Speaker Pence, Majority Leader John Shadegg, and Majority Whip Jeb Hensarling have prepared an ambitious agenda including establishing a national flat income tax.  Their efforts will meet fierce opposition from Democrats, led by Minority Leader Ed Markey and Minority Whip Rahm Emanuel.  The more dignified Senate appears equally divided, with the Democrats led by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Majority Whip Harold Ford, who many see as the new face of the Democratic Party.  The Senate Republicans are led by Minority Leader John Ensign, President-elect Kyl’s reported protégé, and Minority Whip Kay Bailey Hutchinson.

With the looming battles upcoming in Washington, all players and decision-makers take Inauguration Day to celebrate the peaceful transfer of power that has led America to where she proudly stands.  At noon on the dot, Jon Kyl takes the oath of office to become the 46th President of the United States.  His inaugural address conveys his determination.  “For too long, government has charged itself with the mere maintenance of America’s greatness,” he declares.  “It is time for an era of responsibility to begin.  I speak of the responsibility of every generation to leave our nation in the hands of our children stronger than when we inherited it from our parents.”  Addressing the issue of foreign affairs, “It is our deepest prayer that humanity’s darkest hours are behind us, and we can now progress towards a world where fear is replaced with hope.  America will no longer settle to be a passive example for nations to follow, but an active guide for people who want to change their own nation to make it more democratic, free, and equal.”  

After his well-received address, President Kyl enters the Oval Office for the first time as its occupant and holds a short meeting with his top aides.  “We may have four or eight years here, but I want us all to act as if today is our last day in office.  The results we can accomplish in this building in one day can change the lives of millions of Americans.  Let’s get to work.”

NEXT: Will the Republicans’ legislative agenda succeed or succumb to opposition?  Also, President Kyl may not realize his dream for a more peaceful world.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Niemeyerite on December 27, 2010, 08:04:57 PM
I've just read it.. not bad ^^


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 27, 2010, 10:42:54 PM
2009

()
Speaker of the House Mike Pence

Despite barely winning the 2008 Presidential election, President Kyl begins his term with high approval ratings due to his well-received inaugural address.  Along with Speaker Pence and Senator Ensign, Kyl outlines three goals for his first one hundred days in office: 1) establishing a flat income tax system; 2) passing a treaty with Russia to reduce each nation’s nuclear stockpiles by half; 3) creating a national school voucher program for lower-income students.  Though the second goal is expected to receive unanimous approval, the others are likely to meet fierce opposition from Democrats, who maintain a majority in the Senate.

In his first international trip, President Kyl travels to Moscow to meet with Russian President Dmitri Medvedev.  The two speak frankly of the dangers of nuclear weapons, having so recently seen nuclear war and its consequences.  Along with diplomats and advisors, the two leaders tentatively agree to the Nuclear Arms Reduction Treaty (NART).  The treaty entails the destruction of half of each nation’s nuclear stockpile to be enforced by the IAEA.  While the treaty would likely be approved by the United States Senate, Medvedev is unsure of the response from the Russian Duma or his predecessor (some would say boss) Vladimir Putin.  Despite the uncertainty over Russia’s approval of the treaty, President Kyl and Secretary Richardson return home to high approval of their diplomatic mission.

CNN POLL
February 16, 2009
Do you approve of the job President Kyl is doing?
[67%] YES
[22%] NO
[11%] UNSURE/IN BETWEEN


Back in Washington, the House is locked in intense debate over a bill to revise the tax code into a national flat income tax.  The bill was largely written by Majority Whip Jeb Hensarling and Republican Conference Chairman Eric Cantor and is supported by most House Republicans.  However, some moderate Republicans stand in opposition, most notably Congressman Dave Reichert, who sits on the powerful Ways and Means Committee which controls tax policy.  “The progressive tax system ensures that those who benefit most from America’s freedom contribute most to her well-being,” says Reichert.  “While taxes need to be constantly re-examined and ideally lowers, a flat tax places undue burden on those who cannot afford to shell out more money to the federal government.”  The Republican House leadership responds to such challengers by threatening committee seats and advancement opportunities.  The brutality is matched by the Democratic Whip, Rahm Emanuel, who engages in the same tactics.  The bill eventually passes the House on exact partisan lines and moves on to the Senate.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Majority Whip Harold Ford have pre-empted the bill’s arrival in the Senate by individually meeting with all Democratic Senators.  Senator Mike Ciresi of Minnesota notably stands against his party, supporting flat tax as a method to stimulate the economy.  He is joined by several other moderate Democrats such as Joe Lieberman.  Schumer is hesitant to use forceful measures to pressure his Senators to vote a certain way.  Meanwhile, Republican Leader John Ensign and Whip Kay Bailey Hutchinson have unified their party in favor of the measure.  Both Schumer and Ensign agree not to filibuster.  The American public is surveyed as being strongly opposed to the proposal, with nearly 70% in opposition.  This is credited largely to a media campaign by Senator Ford to portray the bill as elitist and the bill’s authors and supporters as not aware of the suffering of ordinary Americans.  Despite this, the bill passes Senate and is signed by President Kyl on March 11, 2009.  

Conservatives hail the passage of the flat tax as a historic achievement and much credit is given to Speaker Pence, who included the measure as a hallmark of his legislative agenda.  However, the majority of Americans are upset at Congress having passed a bill so overwhelmingly opposed by the public.  Senator Barbara Boxer calls the Republican Party “completely numb to the pain of the American people.”  Privately, Boxer leads a challenge to Schumer’s leadership of the Senate caucus, though first urging Harold Ford to challenge his boss.  When Ford refuses, Boxer begins soliciting support to run for Senate Majority Leader.  After gathering over thirty signatures from frustrated Democratic Senators, Boxer forces an election.  Schumer stands down and Boxer is elected unopposed, with Ford remaining Whip.  Boxer’s first order of business as Majority Leader is to punish disloyal Democrats with a revocation of key committee assignments.  Upon being stripped of his committee seniority, Senator Ciresi announces his switch to the Republican Party.  “The new Democratic leader is evidently not a supporter of one’s American right to have an opinion and act in the interest of one’s nation,” says Ciresi.

()
Senator Mike Ciresi

The Democratic media campaign against flat tax is effective and results in shrinking approval ratings for President Kyl.  Nevertheless, he urges Congressional Republicans to proceed with his second major domestic agenda item: a federal school vouchers program.  The attention of Washington and the entire nation is diverted on March 29, 2009 when disturbing news is reported:

*Disclaimer* The events portrayed below are not at all the wishes of the author and are merely being described for the purposes of entertainment.

CHECHNYAN TERRORISTS ATTACK MOSCOW METRO, AT LEAST 50 DEAD

()


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 28, 2010, 03:59:12 PM
Tonight: What will the Russian leadership's response be to the attack?  Also, how will the rest of the Republican Agenda pan out?  Stay tuned as 2009 becomes the year of a world in decline.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: tmthforu94 on December 28, 2010, 04:04:30 PM
Looking forward to reading it!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: feeblepizza on December 28, 2010, 08:34:03 PM


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 28, 2010, 10:19:09 PM
A Cold Resurgence

()

In the aftermath of the March 2009 Moscow terrorist attack, the world bears witness to what had so long been speculated: despite Vladimir Putin ostensibly stepping down to the number two position in Russia, he remains the nation’s undisputed leader.  He lingers behind Medvedev whenever the latter is in public and begins to more openly assume his former role.  Putin orders to Russian military to assume total control of Chechnya and begins to enact policies which raise the eyebrows of many foreigners, including Secretary of State Bill Richardson.

In an interview in late April, Secretary Richardson states, “The interment of innocent Chechnyans and the tactics used by the Russian military and police forces reminds us of the days in which pogroms took place and whole towns would be exterminated.  It is a road we have seen Russia hint at going down, but never has it been so evident.”  When asked whether he has advised President Kyl to pressure Russia to maintain human rights standards, Richardson confirmed he had.  Privately, President Kyl had spoken with both Putin and Medvedev; the former was particularly offended by the call, asking the American President, “What would you do if dogs like these attacked a subway in New York?”  Kyl is determined to avoid a standoff which would significantly deteriorate US-Russo relations and plunge the world back into a chaotic state. 

Secretary Richardson increasingly finds his advice ignored by President Kyl and outright opposed by other administration officials, such as Homeland Security Secretary Peter King, who proposes a similar mentality when dealing with anti-American terrorists at home and abroad.  In June of 2009, Bill Richardson resigns as Secretary of State, publicly citing irreconcilable differences between himself and the President.  In a subsequent interview, Richardson states, “How can President Kyl seek to place America as the leader of the free world when he allows other nations to brutalize their own populations?  Our commitment to liberty, peace, and democracy means nothing if we don’t act upon it.”  Richardson plans to write a book outlining his views on foreign policy and plans a speaking tour across the country, as well as a global tour meeting with foreign leaders.  Some see these moves as Richardson establishing himself as a Presidential candidate for 2012.

-----------------------------------------

()
Senate Majority Leader Barbara Boxer

On the domestic front, the Republican House leaders put forward their second major proposal: a federal school vouchers program.  While the bill easily passes the House due to the Republican majority, it encounters difficulties in the Senate.  Unlike Chuck Schumer, Barbara Boxer proves to be a cutthroat party leader.  The Democratic Caucus is united and prevents the passage of the bill.  Boxer’s abrasive tactics and bombastic speaking title garner her significant notoriety, but Stephen Colbert proves that not all publicity is good publicity when he dubs her, “The Biggest Bitch in America.”  However crude, most Americans seem to agree, as Boxer has a 79% disapproval rating.  The fact remains she is an extremely effective party leader for Senate Democrats. 

In the summer of 2009, the 2010 midterm campaign season begins softly.  Senator Harold Ford, along with Democratic campaign committee chairmen Mark Pryor and Chris Van Hollen, aim to recruit a wide range of candidates to challenge even entrenched Republican incumbents.  Meanwhile, Republican campaign committee chairmen John Thune and Paul Ryan intend to do the same.  Both travel extensively nation-wide while performing the duties of their role, prompting speculation that the two may be laying the groundwork for Presidential bids.

Stay tuned for Part II of this update.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 28, 2010, 11:27:56 PM
2009: The World in Decline

Throughout the year, a worldwide recession had worsened into a near-depression.  In the United States particularly, unemployment rises to a staggering 15% in August 2009.  Though Treasury Secretary Christopher Cox becomes a public scapegoat, the American people had been plagued by their excessive spending habits over the prior decade.  Prominent Democrats such as Senators Boxer and Ford criticize the Republican Party for pushing flat tax through Congress at a time when the lower and middle classes cannot afford to take on a larger portion of funding the government.  To these objections, Vice President Pawlenty states, “If they’re worried lower taxes will not be able to pay the bills for the federal government, they need to ask themselves why they’ve committed to funding so many programs.  You can’t blame Americans for excessive spending when the Democratic Party has bankrupted our nation.”

The situation is made worse by the plethora of able laborers – World War III veterans who have returned home.  The number of homeless veterans skyrockets as there are no jobs in the market.  Veterans Affairs Secretary Richard Myers urges President Kyl to consider several New Deal-style projects to increase labor opportunities for veterans, but Kyl refuses, not wanting to increase government spending.  Former Secretary of State Bill Richardson criticizes Kyl in a guest lecture at Brown University, saying, “The President has not only ignored the values for which our troops fight, but has ignored them after they have risked it all for our nation.”  With the midterm elections of 2010 approaching rapidly, many begin to speculate about possible 2012 Presidential candidates. 

President Kyl’s controversial performance has led to talk of a potential primary challenger, with some pointing to Congressman Dave Reichert a possibility due to his opposition to flat tax.  His sinking approval ratings (a mediocre 43% as of January 2010) have led to countless Democrats gearing up to run.  The list includes former Secretary Richardson, Senate Majority Leader Barbara Boxer, Senate Majority Whip Harold Ford, Senator Barack Obama, House Minority Leader Ed Markey, former Senator and 2008 nominee Dick Durbin, and others.  With the fragile state of the nation and the globe, the 2012 Presidential election will have a great impact and thus looks to be hotly contested.  Start your engines.

NEXT: How will the midterm elections play out?  As the dust settles, the 2012 campaign begins.  Also – tensions rise due to a security scare in the homeland.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on December 28, 2010, 11:39:29 PM
Secretary Cox claimed that he had a terminal illness and milked the sympathy for all it was worth. It then emerged that, actually, he didn't. He lied. In fact his entire personality was a lie. There was no Secretary Cox and there never had been. No terminal illness either. People who were close to Cox - or had thought they were - felt used and the rest of the nation felt just a little bit angry.

What comes after that, though?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 28, 2010, 11:44:52 PM
Secretary Cox claimed that he had a terminal illness and milked the sympathy for all it was worth. It then emerged that, actually, he didn't. He lied. In fact his entire personality was a lie. There was no Secretary Cox and there never had been. No terminal illness either. People who were close to Cox - or had thought they were - felt used and the rest of the nation felt just a little bit angry.

What comes after that, though?

Thank you, Al.  Perhaps you could use the thread to comment on my timeline, which I have returned to complete, rather than rehash old news which has been discussed greatly elsewhere.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 29, 2010, 12:53:55 AM
If you enjoyed the update, please let me know!  I see the "views" go up by hundreds per day, but if I know you all are enjoying it, it is all the more motivation to continue.  :)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 29, 2010, 03:41:00 PM
The next update will be tonight.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Vosem on December 29, 2010, 04:13:53 PM
What happened in the 2008 Senate, governor, and House races?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Vosem on December 29, 2010, 04:52:10 PM
You know, rereading the beginning of the timeline, I just realized you never posted results for the 2000 or 2002 Senate elections. Since Bush did better than OTL in 2000, I decided it was logical Republicans would also do better downballot; since Roy Barnes is reelected, it must follow that Democrats did better than OTL in 2002, as well.

I came to the conclusion that the following five races that went Democratic IOTL went Republican in your timeline: that in Florida Bill McCollum defeated Bill Nelson; that in Michigan Spencer Abraham defeated Debbie Stabenow; that in Nebraska Don Stenberg defeated Ben Nelson; that in New Jersey Bob Franks defeated Jon Corzine; and that in Washington Slade Gorton defeated Maria Cantwell.

Since 5 Republicans were elected in 2000 that weren't OTL, five Democrats in 2002 are needed to balance this out. Therefore; I conclude that in Colorado Tom Strickland defeated Wayne Allard; that in Georgia Max Cleland defeated Saxby Chambliss; that in Minnesota Paul Wellstone defeated Norm Coleman (obvious since Wellstone was a candidate in '08); that in Missouri Jean Carnahan defeated Jim Talent; and that in New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen defeated John Sununu.

You specified the results in 2004; but alternate results in 2000 would result in alternate results in 2006. You only said that Harold Ford, Jr. was elected in Tennessee and Mike Ciresi was reelected in Minnesota; you do not specify any other non-OTL results in 2006, but merely state that seven Democratic pickups occurred. Missouri is held by Jean Carnahan. We can have the other five pickups from OTL, plus Ford; we need only one extra. We can have McCollum, Gorton, Stenberg, and Abraham be reelected; our alt-N.J. Senator, Bob Franks, was suffering from cancer by 2006 (he died from it earlier this year); let's say Thomas Kean Jr. was elected to his seat after his retirement. As for that extra Democratic pickup...let's say Craig Thomas dies a couple months early, and the voters, rather than elect a dead man, in a huge fluke, elect Democrat Dale Groutage a Senator from Wyoming.

Can all this be canon?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 29, 2010, 09:42:55 PM
Vosem, I appreciate the thought you put into the post.  I can confirm only a few of the below, but your theories could be assumed to be accurate.  Max Cleland remains a Senator as of now (2009 in the timeline), so therefore was re-elected in 2002 and 2008.  Wellstone, as you point out, was re-eleted.  I can confirm Kean in New Jersey as a successor to Franks, Gorton defeating Cantwell, Shaheen defeating Sununu, and Carnahan defeating Talent.  I will consider the rest of your projections to see if we can make them "canon."  Thank you again!  :)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 29, 2010, 10:29:36 PM
2010 Midterms: A Battle of Personalities

Nearly all political analysts agree that President Kyl’s first year in office has been underwhelming.  Despite the monumental achievement for conservatives of passing the flat tax proposal, it has gone over poorly with the American public.  An attempt at reducing longstanding nuclear tensions with Russia stalled as the Russian government was radicalized after the Moscow attack.  Finally, the school vouchers proposal was defeated by the Democratic Senate majority.  Though Kyl’s first State of the Union retains the optimistic tone of his inaugural address, it does not resonate with an increasingly cynical American public.  

If the lukewarm attitude towards the President was not enough, Republican Senate leadership transitioned due to a sex scandal which forced Senate Minority Leader John Ensign, Kyl’s political protégé, to resign as leader.  Kay Bailey Hutchison reluctantly assumes leadership of the Republican Caucus, with John Thune assuming the role of Minority Whip in addition to his leadership of the nationwide Republican Senatorial campaigns.  Hutchison’s charm, wit and style serve as a counterpart to the brash Barbara Boxer in the eyes of the American public.  Her popularity increases every second she appears on television and her name quickly becomes synonymous with the Republican Party just as Boxer has become identified with the Democrats.  A battle of personalities is exactly what the Republicans are looking for: Barbara Boxer serves as a lightning rod for every Republican running for Congress to attack.

One notable Republican Congressman not running for re-election is Dave Reichert.  The Washington moderate is seen by many to be laying the groundwork for a primary challenge to President Kyl in 2012.  His newly formed political action committee is called Americans for Accountability and he travels the nation connecting with disillusioned moderate Republicans on every issue from flat tax to foreign policy.  Some focus is taken off Reichert in early 2010 when rumors circulate around the Beltway that President Kyl, 67 and not particularly healthy, is considering not running for a second term.  Privately, Kyl does not trust Vice President Pawlenty, who fell below expectations in the 2008 campaign, to be able to win a national election or be an effective President.  In June 2010, Kyl confirms that he will be running for a second term but noticeably evades the issue of whether Pawlenty will be on the ticket.

Vice President Pawlenty has been touring the nation campaigning for Republican candidates to establish himself as Kyl’s natural successor in the event he did not run.  Now that Kyl is confirmed to run in 2012, Pawlenty seems desperate to remain on the ticket and aims to prove his effectiveness as a campaigner.  Other Republicans who serve as national surrogates include Speaker Pence, Leader Hutchison, Senator Thune and Congressman Hensarling.  Capitol Hill is noticeably empty as its usual occupants are dispersed across the fifty states aiming to have an influence in who fills the chambers next year.  As respected columnist William Safire writes, “Our elected representatives spend more time campaigning than legislating.”  

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The American peoples’ focus on the campaign is broken when it is revealed in late July that the National Security Agency had discovered and prevented a massive terrorist attack from taking place during Independence Day celebrations in Boston.  Four Muslim American youths were arrested in a Fort Lee, New Jersey diner as they were ostensibly on their way north from their Georgia university to commit the heinous act.  Homeland Security Secretary Peter King drafts a memorandum for President Kyl in which he urges him to issue an executive order allowing “preventative internment facilities” to be constructed across the nation.  These facilities would serve as holding stations for suspected terrorists while they awaited investigations by federal intelligence agencies.  

President Kyl issues such an executive order, drawing severe criticism from some, including Senator Paul Wellstone, who states that similar facilities were the first step towards concentration camps in Nazi Germany.  Objections go largely ignored, however, as the nation is on alert knowing that terrorist cells are actively seeking to harm American civilians.  Democratic leaders are hesitant to attempt an override of the executive order, fearing doing so would make them look weak on security months before a crucial election.  The order goes unchallenged and the first facility is constructed near Fort Benning, Georgia, with others soon following in rural areas across the country.

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()
Senate Minority Leader Kay Bailey Hutchison

As the election approaches, the campaign becomes Boxer versus Hutchison, and Republicans are thanking their lucky stars.  Boxer holds an approval rating of 19% of the American public, while Hutchison’s is a solid 74%.  In the generic Congressional ballot, Republicans lead nationwide with 57% compared to the Democrat’s 41%.  The undecided number is noticeably lower than in most election years.  Republicans need only three seats to obtain a majority in the Senate and appear to be at no risk of maintaining their House majority.  In gubernatorial races, especially critical due to upcoming redistricting, Republicans have advantages nationwide.  Democratic strategist James Carville comments in October, “You’ve got a President who isn’t loved, an economy in shambles, a world going down the toilet, security threats at home, and Barbara Boxer is outweighing all of it.”  Carville perhaps has summed up what most Democrats are thinking.

On Election Day, the Republicans overcome the historical factors against them and increase their majority in the House and in gubernatorial seats, but most importantly win enough seats to obtain a Senate majority.  The critical seats which made the difference were Colorado, in which attorney Ken Buck defeated Ken Salazar; Nevada, where Congressman Jon Porter defeated Harry Reid; and most notably California, where Barbara Boxer was defeated by businesswoman Carly Fiorina.  In her Election Night victory speech, incoming Senate Majority Leader Kay Bailey Hutchison proclaims, “The era of American greatness is only beginning.  Together, with the confidence of the American people, we move forward towards our nation’s destiny.”

NEXT: The Democratic defeat yields division among the ranks.  Who will rise to challenge the now-dominant Republican Party?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 30, 2010, 12:33:13 AM
December 3, 2010

Today is the groundbreaking ceremony for the Wesley K. Clark Library and Presidential Complex.  When determining a location for the complex, Clark considered Arkansas, but was deterred by the presence of the Clinton Library.  Instead, he chose West Point, New York, within a mile of the Military Academy which formed his life.  The planned $50 million complex will likely be completed by 2012.

()
Former President Roy Barnes

At the ceremony, President Kyl commends his predecessor’s service to his nation not only as President.  “President Clark showed me not only how to be America’s leader, but how to be a good American,” says Kyl.  Perhaps the most surprising speaker is former President Roy Barnes, who had largely remained outside the public eye since he resigned from office in 2006.  Barnes appears far healthier and more jubilant than he has been since the 2004 Presidential campaign and is, for the first time, considered funny.  “When I think of Wes Clark,” begins Barnes, “I think, ‘How did I let this son of a gun show me up?’”  He goes on to heavily praise Clark, even saying that selecting him as his running mate was the greatest choice of his political career.

His comments are echoed by Clark’s second-in-command, former Vice President Richard Holbrooke.  Holbrooke enjoys extensive popularity due to his role in negotiating the end of World War III and the Second Korean War, both with favorable results for the United States.  Many Democrats are urging Holbrooke to run for President in 2012, but the statesman will not budge.  His well-received speech reminds those watching why he has been an effective American diplomat for decades and why the greatest leaders are usually those who never seek the Presidency.  President Clark begins his remarks by commending Holbrooke on his lifetime of service.  “I learned in my three years as President that the reason some of my predecessors are considered great is because they had great men advising them.  If history judges my Presidency to be a success, there needs to be a note indicating that it was due to Richard Holbrooke.”

Unfortunately, former Vice President Holbrooke dies ten days later of a heart attack at the age of 69.  His body lies in state at the Capitol Rotunda and his funeral is broadcast on national television.  Dignitaries from across the world attend to pay their respects to the man who ended two of the greatest conflicts in the history of mankind.

()
Richard Holbrooke (1941 – 2010)
This update is dedicated to his memory.



Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 30, 2010, 01:39:07 PM
250+ views since yesterday.  You all are reading, but are you enjoying?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: AndrewTX on December 30, 2010, 02:25:43 PM
I am enjoying it very mucho


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: FEMA Camp Administrator on December 30, 2010, 02:50:05 PM
Si, me gusta muy mucho.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 30, 2010, 03:38:06 PM
The next few updates will focus on the Presidential campaign announcements for certain candidates.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 30, 2010, 09:56:06 PM
“A Worthy Cause”

()

In a move anticipated by all and feared by many, Congressman Dave Reichert announces his Presidential bid on December 27, 2010.  His primary challenge to an incumbent President is historically rare, but was last seen in 2004 when General Wesley Clark challenged President George W. Bush.  Clark received roughly a third of the vote in the states he contested before dropping out and later becoming Roy Barnes’ running mate.  Reichert, who has less national experience and name recognition than Clark did, is thought to have virtually no chance of obtaining the nomination and will likely have an uphill battle to even garner significant poll numbers to remain a viable candidate.

His announcement speech reflects his maverick status in Congress, especially since the Republicans obtained a Congressional majority in 2008.  “From the time I was Sheriff of King County to my time in the U.S. House of Representatives, I have always played by one rule in my political career: I will not be bought, bribed, or threatened into voting against the interests of the people I represent.”  Reichert criticizes the tactics of the House Republican leadership who stripped him from his committee assignments after he led a group of moderate Republicans against the flat tax proposal.  “We are the party of freedom and we stand for the right of every individual to work hard to achieve what is best for them.  The coercive tactics of our party’s leaders have damaged our reputation as defenders of American liberty and this mentality has been sanctioned by our current administration.”  He closes by preemptively responding to the concerns of cynics.  “I am not sacrificing my hard-earned money, my good health and time with my family to get my name in a history book.  A good American will risk his career for a worthy cause.  I am running to win the Republican nomination and win the White House.  The American people believe in freedom and hard work, individuality and accountability, and are firmly against extremism.  I am running a campaign based on these core American values and together, we will achieve the improbable and win this election.”

Mainstream Republicans immediately launch a media attack on Reichert.  Incoming House Majority Whip Jeb Hensarling, one of the authors of the flat tax proposal, says, “Dave Reichert is tarnishing his respectable record of public service by stirring up the pot for no apparent reason.”  Understandably, Democrats come to Reichert’s defense, with Former President Roy Barnes praising his quixotic bid on Good Morning America.  “You’ve got to admire a man who puts principle before politics,” says Barnes.  President Kyl remains above the fray, only commenting through his Press Secretary that he looks forward to an exchange of ideas during the primary. 

A poll released on January 5, 2011 shows that Kyl has no reason for concern.

RASMUSSEN REPORTS
Who would you vote for in a Republican primary?
[72%] JON KYL
[12%] DAVE REICHERT
[16%] UNDECIDED



Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 30, 2010, 10:18:34 PM
“Right and Wrong”

()

On January 3, 2011, Bill Richardson formally declares his candidacy for President of the United States.  A former Secretary of State, Governor of New Mexico, Secretary of Energy, Ambassador to the United Nations, Congressman and businessman, Richardson is among the most experienced men ever to seek the office of the Presidency.  Ever since his resignation as Secretary of State, Richardson has been touring the nation, lecturing at universities, appearing on programs and writing, all stirring up speculation that he was planning to run for President.  Most notably, his book, “Right and Wrong,” which outlines his career in public service, was on the New York Times bestseller list for five straight weeks. 

Richardson’s 2008 Presidential campaign was moderately successful, obtaining a solid third place in New Hampshire in a large field.  However, he truly shined as Dick Durbin’s Vice Presidential running mate.  His significant experience allowed him to defeat then-Governor Tim Pawlenty in the Vice Presidential debate and he was an effective campaigner.  Some criticize Richardson for refusing to wait for Durbin to make a decision on whether to run before making his own.  However, Richardson enters the race as a top-tier candidate and, as the first major candidate to declare, the frontrunner.

His announcement speech is sharply critical of the Kyl Administration and evokes the theme of his recent book.  “Let me tell you something about right and wrong,” says Richardson.  “Forcing the brunt of federal taxes on working-class Americans is wrong.  Constructing internment camps reminiscent of dark eras we thought were long behind us is wrong.  Allowing Russia to commit genocide on its own people is wrong.  This administration and this President have gone about things the entirely wrong way and I am in this race to change course.  It’s time to do the right thing and lead the world by being an example of freedom and fairness.”  The speech surprises many due to its negativity, but immediately makes Richardson the darling of left-wing bloggers, writers and pundits.  Television anchor Rachel Maddow states, “Say what you want about Bill Richardson; you can’t say he doesn’t firmly believe he’s the right man for America.”


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 31, 2010, 03:40:19 PM
I really hope Durbin runs...that would certainly shake things up. And he came so close last time...

You will soon find out.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on December 31, 2010, 03:58:17 PM
To Run or Not to Run

()
Senator Dick Durbin accepting the nomination in 2008.

The 2008 Presidential election was the closest in modern history.  Democratic nominee Dick Durbin has nothing to be ashamed of, having won 268 electoral votes and over 49% of the popular vote.  Had a few hundred votes been reversed in West Virginia, Durbin would be President.  Having not run for re-election to the United States Senate in order to pursue the Presidency in 2008, the former Majority Leader has toured the world and finally found relaxation in his retirement, with his work schedule consisting only of a few monthly meetings for corporate boards.  Yet, Durbin is haunted by his past goals which he still seeks to fulfill.

Often asked of his intentions, Durbin responds with the same ambiguity which foreshadowed his 2008 campaign.  He has kept in touch with supporters from across the nation, but particularly in Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina.  He regularly meets with former top members of his campaign team as well as former Senate colleagues.  Polls show that he would be the frontrunner for the nomination.  His family is urging him to proceed.  To top it all off, President Kyl, his opponent in 2008, is not particularly popular and many Americans are experiencing buyer’s remorse.  So why is Durbin not moving forward with a campaign?

Some analysts speculate that Durbin will not run since his 2008 running mate, Bill Richardson, is already in the race and is the current frontrunner.  Privately, Durbin regards Richardson as power-hungry and not particularly intelligent and feels that he would have been better off choosing a different running mate in 2008, despite consistent acclaim for Richardson’s performance.  Richardson’s entry into the race is only more motivation for Durbin to run.  It is another potential candidate who could deter Durbin from running.

-----------------------------------

One early January evening in 2011, the phone in Durbin’s Chicago residence rings.  He answers and is intrigued to discover who the caller is.  “Dick, I’m going to do it,” says the caller.  “I wanted you to be the first to know.”  There is silence from Durbin, prompting the caller to continue, “We have worked together very closely.  If you have any reservations about my candidacy or my beliefs…”  Durbin stops the caller mid-sentence.

“I have been urged by friends and family to run,” says Durbin.  “I have the support, the money, everything I need.  All I needed to run was a reason – a sign that the people I fight for will not have a voice if I don’t run.  If you are in this race, everything and everyone I stand for is represented.  You have my blessing and my support.”


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 01, 2011, 04:12:08 PM
The next update will be tonight. 


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: tmthforu94 on January 01, 2011, 04:14:56 PM
So someone else running will cause Durbin not to? Barack Obama?


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 01, 2011, 08:06:32 PM
A Tale of Two Senators

()
Jesse Jackson at the 1988 Democratic Convention

“My people deserve the nomination in 2012,” says former Presidential candidate and African-American community leader Jesse Jackson in a 2010 interview.  “Since the days of FDR, we have been the Democratic Party’s most loyal supporters.”  Jackson’s attitude reflects growing frustration among the black community: the fact that a black person has never won the Democratic nomination.  When asked if he had anybody particular in mind who was interested in seeking the nomination, Jackson answers, “Well, it’s a tale of two Senators…”

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()
Senator Harold Ford

Incoming Senate Minority Leader Harold Ford has long harbored Presidential ambitions.  His goal has motivated him to play an active role in the United States Senate, despite having only been elected in 2006.  His ascension within the Democratic Caucus has been one of the fastest in history.  With Barbara Boxer’s unpopularity and subsequent defeat for re-election, Ford is pressured into leading Senate Democrats, a role he never intended to seek.  His national recognition and reputation as a charismatic voice of reason has made him one of the frontrunners for the 2012 nomination.  

Despite his stature, Ford’s new leadership role in Senate presents problems.  To be an effective party leader, he would be required to abandon his plans to run.  Not only would wearing both hats cause him to perform poorly in both roles, he would be criticized for abandoning his fellow party members in Senate.  Any failed votes would be his fault and considering his party is now in the minority, there are likely to be many.  Privately, Ford tells his father, former Congressman Harold Ford, Sr., that he would like to resign as Senate Minority Leader and let newly elected Whip Patty Murray take over his role.  This would allow him to pursue his dream.  He knows, however, that such a move would be politically risky.  The young man’s star has risen and the time to make a decision is approaching.

------------------------------------

()
Senator Barack Obama

Senator Barack Obama’s improbable rise to national prominence began when he was asked by then-Governor Roy Barnes to give the keynote address at the 2004 Democratic National Convention.  Since then, he has emerged as a leader within Senate and an extremely popular figure with young Americans.  He chose not to run in 2008 and supported his friend and mentor Dick Durbin from the start.  The question now is: will he run if Durbin runs again?

Obama’s support was critical in solidifying Durbin as the choice of the African-American community and helped Durbin clinch the nomination early.  In his mind, it is up to Durbin now to return the favor.  In a late 2010 interview on Meet the Press, Obama is asked by David Gregory if he would support Durbin in 2012 if he were to run again and, in addition, if he has any plans to run personally.  “As you know, David,” begins Obama, “I was a strong supporter of Dick’s from the very beginning in 2008.  I wish he were President now.  Having said that, I think Dick has had his chance to put his name forward for the Presidency.  He will always be a friend of mine, a mentor of mine and one of our nation’s leaders.  Speaking for myself, I am strongly considering a run for President in 2012.”  With the media focusing on a potential Durbin versus Obama primary, Obama knows he has to act.

One January evening, he calls Dick Durbin.  He informs him that he plans to run and Durbin graciously offers his support and confirms he will not be running of Obama is.  With one potential opponent out of the race, Obama only has one question on his mind: If Harold Ford runs, will the African-American vote be split?

NEXT: As more candidates throw their hats in the ring for President, the stakes of the election become higher as America’s allies turn to adversaries.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Niemeyerite on January 01, 2011, 08:29:53 PM
OBAMA!


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 01, 2011, 11:01:32 PM
“It’s America, stupid!”

()

On January 10, 2011, Martin O’Malley becomes the first sitting governor to declare his candidacy for President in the 2012 election.  Governor O’Malley is the chairman of the Democratic Governors’ Association, a role usually regarded as a stepping stone to a Presidential bid.  In addition to being among the relatively few Democrats to survive the 2010 midterm elections, he traveled across the nation campaigning for Democratic candidates and made several allies.

His announcement speech focuses on his record as Governor of Maryland and previously as Mayor of Baltimore.  He portrays himself as a pragmatist, making specific reference to how he signed the largest tax increase in Maryland history as Governor.  “I’m not a politician who bases my course of action on poll numbers,” declares O’Malley.  “I’m a servant who based my course of action on what can most help the people I represent.”  His most memorable line comes near the end of his speech.  Referring to the current focus of American politics on foreign affairs, he says, “You will hear an awful lot from my opponents about my lack of foreign policy experience.  While I will stand to refute that, I believe that the most important experience for President of the United States comes from the roles I have held.  I’ve been a mayor who has fought crime and made a major city better to live in for families.  I’m a governor who has made the tough choices to allow government to better serve its people.  Whenever I hear a candidate focus only on foreign policy, I will reword an old line of a man I deeply admire and remind them of what the focus of this campaign should be: ‘It’s America, stupid!’  I will make this campaign about the hardworking Americans who increasingly feel ignored by their leaders.”

Reaction to the speech is mixed.  James Carville is the first of many to criticize O’Malley’s apparent pride in having raised taxes in Maryland.  “I’d recommend that the good governor ask President Mondale about using tax increases as a platform point.  Oh, wait a moment…”  Bob Schrum questions O’Malley’s tendency to admit his own weaknesses.  “Maybe it comes off as charming and frank, but I would never tell a candidate to give voters a laundry list of weaknesses they’ll be attacked on.”  However, both and others agree that O’Malley’s domestic focus will play well in Peoria and could help him in the early caucuses and primaries.  Yet, his insistence upon making the election primarily about domestic issues backfires sooner than anyone would expect.

---------------------------------

Ghost of Cold War Past

()
Vladimir Putin

Shedding any illusion that President Medvedev is Russia’s true head of state, Prime Minister Vladimir Putin announces on January 11, 2011 that Russia would be withdrawing from final talks regarding the Nuclear Arms Reduction Treaty (NART).  Despite President Kyl’s non-interventionist attitude regarding Russia’s treatment of Chechnya, Putin insists that his nation must maintain an extensive nuclear arsenal to remain a military superpower.  In the same speech, he reveals that the Russian Military will undergo a three-year modernization with the intention of giving it technical superiority over both the American and Chinese militaries.  Later that week, the Russian Duma overwhelmingly passes a constitutional amendment creating Putin as the “Premier of Russia” and officially relegates President Medvedev to an advisory role with even less relative power than the Vice President of the United States.

Reaction across the world is negative.  British Prime Minister David Cameron condemns the actions as “deliberately provocative” and “a disturbing reminder of a time not long ago when East and West were at each other’s throats.”  Chinese Premier Hu Jintao, through a spokesman, questions the motivations behind the events, even implying they may purely be a power move by Putin.  President Jon Kyl, accompanied by Secretary of State John Bolton, criticizes Putin.  Kyl says, “One of the paramount goals of my Presidency was to increase and improve relations with Russia.  I am deeply disappointed that its leader has behaved not like the ally I thought he was, but like an adversary.  Let it be known that the United States is constantly modernizing its military and no American should fear a foreign power’s military capabilities compared to our own.”

Presidential candidate Bill Richardson takes the opportunity to criticize Kyl’s handling of the entire situation.  “We have a President who is essentially declaring an arms race,” says Richardson.  “Let’s not forget that the reason I quit as Secretary of State was because Kyl was babying the Russians and allowing them to commit gruesome acts on sects of their population in order to further our alliance with them.  Now, he’s done a complete turnaround and is attempting to draw Russia into conflict.”  Hearing of the news, Martin O’Malley suddenly wishes he had chosen his words far more carefully.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: tmthforu94 on January 01, 2011, 11:10:28 PM
Called it! :)


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Yates on January 02, 2011, 10:12:56 PM
“Four Years Wiser”

()

Former Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry was the runner-up for the 2008 Democratic nomination.  His late entry into the race may have cost him early money and support, but also gained him significant momentum as many voters saw him as the fresh face to oppose frontrunner Dick Durbin.  With executive experience, relative youth and moderate views, Henry was a force in 2008 and has been considered to be one of the potential frontrunners in 2012.

On February 6, 2011, Henry declares his candidacy for President of the United States.  He had previously indicated that if he were to run again, he would enter early, and he has followed through.  His announcement speech is perceived as safe and underwhelming.  There are few notable lines and the speech is mostly biographical.  Political scientist Larry Sabato says of the speech, “Henry needs to realize he’s not the new hot commodity anymore.  He’s old news.  He can’t just expect to pick up where he left off; he’s gotta offer something new to voters.”  Largely based off of name recognition, however, Henry is polling high among the announced candidates nationwide.

MSNBC Poll
Democratic Nomination – Announced Candidates
If your primary or caucus was today, who would receive your vote?
[32%] Bill Richardson
[29%] Brad Henry
[8%] Martin O’Malley
[31%] Unsure


MSNBC also polls Republicans and finds that Congressman Reichert’s heavy campaigning and media blitz has paid off.

MSNBC Poll
Republican Nomination – Announced Candidates
If your primary or caucus was today, who would receive your vote?
[45%] Jon Kyl
[30%] Dave Reichert
[25%] Unsure


The numbers are highly concerning to Kyl’s team, who resolve to start the President’s active campaign earlier than anticipated.  The media is kept on guard, however, by an upcoming major announcement from Bill Richardson.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: feeblepizza on January 03, 2011, 12:08:45 PM
Still rooting for Kyl. I hope that Durbin runs again, as well. That will keep Obama down until 2016 or 2020.


Title: Re: America: 2000-2016
Post by: Bacon King on January 19, 2011, 05:30:13 PM
Oh, hey, turns out this thread had terminal brain cancer.

Topic locked.