Twists and Turns- a 2012 Timeline

[America Needs R'hllor]

March 12th, 2011

BREAKING NEWS: PRESIDENT CLINTON NOT TO RUN FOR REELECTION

President Hillary Clinton giving her shocking speech

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After being obstructed by Republicans for four years, after her name was tarnished, and after heavy losses in the 2010 midterm elections, Hillary Clinton has had enough. She achieved her life dream and ambition of being President, and did manage to stabilize the situation of the United States, but it was not enough. Polls were showing her heavily losing to most of her Republican opponents, and her scandal-ridden administration was not helping.

Now, the field for both parties is open, and one can only guess what will happen.

Final polls released before Hillary Clinton's announcement:

Clinton VS Romney:
Romney- 48.7%
Clinton- 37.9%
Other/Don't Know- 13.4%

Clinton VS McCain:
McCain- 48.5%
Clinton- 39.2%
Other/Don't Know- 12.3%

Clinton VS Generic R:
Generic R- 46.6%
Clinton- 39.5%
Other/Don't Know- 13.9%

Clinton VS Huckabee:
Huckabee- 46.1%
Clinton- 40.0%
Other/Don't Know- 13.9%

Clinton VS Gingrich:
Gingrich- 42.1%
Clinton- 40.9%
Other/Don't Know- 17.0%

Clinton VS Palin:
Clinton- 40.6%
Palin- 40.5%
Other/Don't know- 18.9%

Author's Note: Because I didn't want to focus on the Clinton administration, assume that the cabinet is identical to Obama's administration, with a few noteable exceptions which will be revealed soonTM. Also, the 2010 midterms and general administrative events during her term are identical to Obama's.
As this is my first timeline (tried starting one some time ago, but didn't have the time), comments are greatly appreciated!

[America Needs R'hllor]

March 13th, 2011

After President Clinton's shocking announcement, Democratic and Republican politicians scramble to readjust to the new, vastly different political situation. On the Republican side, RNC Chair Reince Priebus and all the potential candidates have to completely change many lines of attack aimed at Clinton herself and find themselves in a much less certain situation than before. Meanwhile, on the Democratic side, interim DNC Chair Donna Brazile is frantically trying to recruit quality candidates to run in Clinton's place- but it looks like she'll not have a lack of candidates.

March 15th, 2011

Two high-profile members of the Clinton Administration, Secretary of State Wesley Clark and Secretary of Defence Joe Lieberman, have announced the formation of an exploratory committee before a potential run for President... Meanwhile, no word from the offices of Vice President Evan Bayh and Senator Barack Obama, two potentially strong candidates.

March 23rd, 2011

Fred Karger announcing his candidacy for the Republican nomination

As candidates from both parties form exploratory comittees and try to decide whether they will run for President, Fred Karger, activist and political consultant, has officially announced his run for the Republican nomination, making him the first openly gay candidate to run for a major party's nomination.

April 1st, 2011

DONALD J. TRUMP ANNOUNCES CANDIDACY FOR REPUBLICAN NOMINATION!!!

In a shocking announcement at an innocent-looking event, Donald J. Trump announces that he WILL be running for President! This could be a major day in our nation's history, as polls indicated that he has a shot at winning the Republican nomination.

April 2nd, 2011

Trump calms nation: "Presidential announcement was just a prank"

After shaking the political scene yesterday with his announcement, Donald J. Trump claimed in an interview that it was an April Fool's prank: "C'mon, of course I'm not running for President. Why would I run for President? It was just a prank for April Fool's. But if it made such a tremendous impact, maybe I should? Right?". Phew.

April 21st, 2011

Gary Johnson To Run for Republican Nomination

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Marking the first major announcement, if you don't count Trump's prank, former New Mexico Governor Gary Johnson announced today that he will be running for President. This is considered likely to set off the primary season, and the announcements of more major figures.

[America Needs R'hllor]

April 25th, 2011

Not surprising anybody, Secretary Lieberman announces second Presidential run

Lieberman announcing his bid in a speech before soldiers

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May 1st, 2011

Senator Sanders announces longshot bid on Worker's Day

Sanders giving his announcement to a small crowd of journalists and supporters

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May 8th, 2011

BREAKING: Gingrich; Huckabee will not run for President

Gingrich in the Fox News Interview, trying to explain the reasons that he will not run

Though it seemed as if a Gingrich Presidential run was almost certain, the former Speaker announced in a Fox News interview that despite the exploratory committee he formed, he will not seek the Republican nomination: "I think that some other leader should step in. I mean, I want to serve and help a Republican administration fix America, but I have decided that a Presidential run at the moment is not likely."
Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee has also announced that he will not seek the Presidency, claiming that he feels it's not the right time.

May 13th, 2011

Ron Paul announces Presidential bid in a packed rally

Rep. Paul speaking before a packed park of supporters

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May 15th, 2011

Vice President Bayh Still Mulling Bid; Clinton allies urging him to run

Chief of Staff Huma Abedin after a meeting with Vice President Evan Bayh, where, according to sources, she tried to convince him to run for President

Despite his reluctance, many Clinton allies, who dislike the current and predicted slate of candidates, are urging VP Bayh to run for President. Bayh allies explain his reluctance by the fact that if Senator Barack Obama announces his candidacy, the Vice President will have an uphill battle for the nomination. So far, however, Obama appears to be waiting on the sidelines.
Meanwhile, Secreatary of State Wesley Clark, who had some disagreements with President Clinton on foreign policy, has filed papers with the FEC and is expected to make a Presidential announcement soon.

[America Needs R'hllor]

Thoughts so far? The process of candidate announcements will take some time, but then the real action will begin.

[America Needs R'hllor]

May 17th, 2011

Secretary of State Wesley Clark announces candidacy before a hall packed with soldiers and veterans, bashing Sec. Lieberman

Secretary Clark addressing the soldiers, wearing his uniform and clearly outshining Lieberman's announcement

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May 19th, 2011

Bobby Jindal officially announces 2012 candidacy, after denying interest, entering as one of the frontruners according to polls

Governor Jindal in his surprising announcement

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May 23rd, 2011

Seeing opportunity in what seems to be a completely open race, Texas Governor Rick Perry announces his candidacy early

Perry immediately jumped to one of the first places in most national polls

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May 28th, 2011

Former Vermont Governor Howard Dean announces another Presidential bid

In front of a large crowd of supporters, Dean becomes the 4th major Democrat in the race

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June 2nd, 2011

With an unexpectedly fierce competition looming, Mitt Romney finally announces Presidential bid

After long weeks of expectation, former Gov. Romney finally announces presidential run, but looks quite worried and winded in announcement speech

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Finally, it happened. Mitt Romney is officially running. But he doesn't look like the most enthusiastic candidate, and two popular governors are going to contest this primary season, so who knows if he can keep his frontrunner status?

Democratic Primaries- National

Evan Bayh- 21%
Barack Obama- 19%
Wesley Clark- 15%
Howard Dean- 13%
Joe Lieberman- 9%
Bernie Sanders- 6%
Undecided- 17%

Democratic Primaries- Iowa

Evan Bayh- 24%
Barack Obama- 21%
Wesley Clark- 17%
Howard Dean- 12%
Joe Lieberman- 4%
Bernie Sanders- 3%
Undecided- 19%

Republican Primaries- National

Mitt Romney- 31%
Rick Perry- 24%
Bobby Jindal- 14%
Ron Paul- 10%
Gary Johnson- 1%
Fred Karger- 0%
Undecided- 20%

Republican Primaries- Iowa

Mitt Romney- 21%
Ron Paul- 20%
Bobby Jindal- 17%
Rick Perry- 13%
Gary Johnson- 3%
Fred Karger- 0%
Undecided- 26%

[America Needs R'hllor]

June 6th, 2011

Former Senator Rick Santorum, despite low odds, announces presidential run

Rick Santorum announces before a small crowd

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June 14th, 2011

Rep. Michele Bachmann, a Tea Party favourite, announces run for Republican nomination

Bachmann's fiery announcement speech caused much controversy

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Louisiana Senator Mary Landrieu announces surprise presidential bid for the Democratic nomination

Landrieu, speaking to a crowd of supporters in Louisiana, announces longshot bid for the Presidency

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June 21st, 2011

Former Utah Governor and Ambassador to China, Jon Huntsman, joins the Republican field, and is considered the last candidate likely to join it

Huntsman's announcement did not draw as much attention as his team hoped

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June 22nd, 2011

Political inside sources: Obama, Bayh close to making decision regarding Presidential race

Vice President Evan Bayh after a meeting with Sec. Vilasck

While the Republican field seems complete, the Democratic one is still unable to solidify. Vice President Evan Bayh, who seems reluctant to enter the race, has been mulling a bid for a long time, meeting political allies and Clinton insiders, who've been trying to convince him to jump in, as well as political rivals. Just recently, he met with Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, who was also rumoured as a candidate and whose endorsement could carry a heavy weight in Iowa. The Vice President is expected to announce either way soon.
Meanwhile, another rumoured candidate, Barack Obama, was long expected to enter the race, but now, it seems much less likely. Obama allies say he's "thinking of endorsing someone else he passionately supports", without specifying who. The reason for this could be that a surprisingly tough challenge from Mark Kirk in the Republican wave of 2010 forced Obama to say that he will not to run for President just 2 years into his second term as Senator. Indeed, he won his seat by 7 points, but he's reluctant to break that promise, being a honest politician.

[America Needs R'hllor]

July 1st, 2011 Polling Update:

Democratic Primaries- National

Evan Bayh- 19%
Wesley Clark- 17%
Barack Obama- 16%
Howard Dean- 15%
Joe Lieberman- 12%
Bernie Sanders- 9%
Undecided- 12%

Democratic Primaries- Iowa

Evan Bayh- 22%
Wesley Clark- 19%
Barack Obama- 17%
Howard Dean- 15%
Bernie Sanders- 6%
Joe Lieberman- 4%
Undecided- 17%

Republican Primaries- National

Mitt Romney- 26%
Rick Perry- 17%
Bobby Jindal- 12%
Bachmann- 11%
Ron Paul- 10%
Santorum- 5%
Huntsman- 4%
Gary Johnson- 0%
Undecided- 14%

Republican Primaries- Iowa

Mitt Romney- 20%
Ron Paul- 19%
Bachmann- 14%
Bobby Jindal- 13%
Santorum- 9%
Rick Perry- 8%
Huntsman- 3%
Gary Johnson- 1%
Undecided- 13%

It seems like the polls are getting clearer on the Republican side, now that the field solidified. The base seems eager for a candidate like Bachmann, and she immediately got a surge in support when she entered the race- hurting mainly Jindal and Perry. Meanwhile, Huntsman did not gain much traction but his entrance was certainly bad news for fellow Mormon Mitt Romney, and Santorum seems like he's having a hard time to find an unoccupied base in the Republican electorate.
On the Democratic side, Obama's and Bayh's delays appear to be hurting them, as their opponents who did enter the race are slowly creeping on the frontrunners. Meanwhile, obscure candidate Bernie Sanders is rising in the polls- and is definitely a serious candidate now, attracting progressive voters in surprising amounts. Are the progressive Democrats on the verge of a revival?

[America Needs R'hllor]

July 3rd, 2011

Senator Barack Obama, facing possible criticism for running two years after a tight reelection battle, will not run for President

Senator Obama explains his reasoning for not running in an interview

After being long considered a top candidate, Senator Obama has just scrambled the Democratic field by announcing that he will not run for President. In an interview, he said that "despite the need for liberal leadership these days, I cannot break my promise to the people of Illinois - I will not run for President in 2012". This move is expected to cause a barrage of announcements from Democratic politicians, perhaps setting the table for an already crowded primary session to get even bigger.

July 5th, 2011

A day after the nation celebrated its independence, Vice President Evan Bayh finally announces his Presidential run

Vice President Bayh making his run official

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July 10th, 2011

Probably encouraged by Obama's decision not to run, Virginia Senator Mark Warner announces Presidential bid, joining a crowded Democratic field

Joined by his first major endorser, fellow Senator Tim Kaine, Warner announced his bid

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July 14th, 2011

In an announcement that shocked many, former Wisconsin Senator Russ Feingold jumped into the crowded Presidential field of candidates

Before a packed hall of supporters and fans, Russ Feingold gave a stirring speech

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July 16th, 2011

Ann Romney hospitalized; Republican and Democratic opponents wish good health

Facing an unknown sickness, Ann Romney, wife of Republican frontrunner Mitt Romney, was hospitalized Boston, Massachusetts. This caused a surge of empathy and support towards the candidate, as allies and rivals wished his wife a speedy recovery. Governor Rick Perry said that "I wish Ann the speediest recovery possible, and she's in my prayers. Health comes before everything, so we've decided that we will reduce campaigning for the next few days in order to respect the situation." Former Senator Rick Santorum visited a church in Iowa, and held organized for the Romneys there, saying "above politics, above everything, there is life, and we must pray hard and hope that Ann will have a speedy recovery, and we can get back to campaigning."
On the other side of the aisle, Vice President Bayh said that "Mitt is a great, smart person and Ann is an absolutely amazing human being. I pray that they will soon return kicking into the campaign, and we can continue fighting over policy." Senator Russ Feingold paid them a visit after holding an event in Boston, telling Governor Romney that "I hope you'll have the speediest of recoveries. You and Ann are terrific, and the political scene benefits from your enthusiasm and hard work." Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick said that "Massachusetts is honoured to be home to Ann and Mitt, and we all pray hard for their recovery. They're an important piece in the history of our state, and are dear to us." Senators Scott Brown and John Kerry also made an impassioned prayer for Ann Romney's recovery.

[America Needs R'hllor]

July 19th, 2011, polling update:

Democratic Primaries- National

Evan Bayh- 21%
Wesley Clark- 16%
Howard Dean- 15%
Mark Warner- 11%
Russ Feingold- 11%
Joe Lieberman- 8%
Mary Landrieu- 5%
Bernie Sanders- 3%
Undecided- 10%

Democratic Primaries- Iowa

Evan Bayh- 24%
Wesley Clark- 17%
Russ Feingold- 15%
Howard Dean- 12%
Mark Warner- 9%
Bernie Sanders- 4%
Mary Landrieu- 3%
Joe Lieberman- 3%
Undecided- 15%

Republican Primaries- National

Mitt Romney- 37%
Rick Perry- 14%
Bobby Jindal- 12%
Bachmann- 10%
Ron Paul- 9%
Santorum- 6%
Huntsman- 4%
Gary Johnson- 0%
Undecided- 8%

Republican Primaries- Iowa

Mitt Romney- 28%
Ron Paul- 18%
Bachmann- 13%
Bobby Jindal- 12%
Santorum- 12%
Rick Perry- 5%
Huntsman- 3%
Gary Johnson- 0%
Undecided- 9%

[America Needs R'hllor]

Is Citizens United still a factor? It'd lend credence to Sanders and Feingold if so.

It is. The establishment is much more popular than in 2016, but with so many moderate heroes running, don't worry- the progressives will be a very big factor.

[America Needs R'hllor]

July 21st, 2011

Gary Johnson becomes first candidate to withdraw Presidential bid

Gov. Johnson's announcement

After his hopes of gathering a broad tent of libertarian and moderate Republicans were crushed by Ron Paul's entrance into the race, and his poll numbers fell to zero, Former New Mexico Governor Gary Johnson has announced that he's no longer running for the Republican nomination for President. Instead, he will run for the Libertarian Party's nomination.

July 24th, 2011

Former Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura running

Coincidentally or not coincidentally, just a few days after Gary Johnson, another Governor, Jesse Ventura, joined to race to become the Libertarian nominee. This promises an interesting convention to be held in this party. Could an interesting convention, followed by a strong ticket, lead to a good showing in the general election for this party? Only time willl tell, but the Libertarian profile just rose a bit more.

July 27th, 2011

Hillary Clinton denies reports of Clark endorsement; Clinton spokesperson Robby Mook said "Bayh and Clark would make superb Presidents"

President Clinton after meeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

While in a visit to Israel, President Hillary Clinton denied recent reports about tensions with Vice President Evan Bayh, and a recent report about an upcoming endoresment Sec. of State Wesley Clark. "No, I didn't decide upon an endorsement yet... Evan is a terrific Vice President and a great friend, and I'd love it if he succeeds me. There are no tensions."
Meanwhile, Robby Mook, a Clinton ally, told reporters that "both Bayh and Clark would make great Presidents; Lieberman and Dean are very qualified too."
This increases speculation about Clinton's possible endorsements, and causes worry in the Bayh campaign, which hoped to win this endorsement way earlier.

[America Needs R'hllor]

August 5th, 2011

The First Democratic Debate

The first scheduled debate of the Democratic Pary was the firing shot of the election campaign. It could be clearly seen that it was just the first debate- the candidates tried to get a feel of the dynamics between them and each other's debating style, and find their footing and their message. Because of this, there weren't many attacks or clashes, but this was still an interesting debate, with some candidates performing well and others flopping. We got a clear insight to the candidates, their style, and perhaps even how sustainable their candidacies were. Here are some highlights from the debate:



Joe Lieberman: We need to be tougher on terrorism. I've always said it, and I'll keep saying it. It's a very big threat to the lives of Americans and millions of others across the globe, and we can't hesitate to use force if needed in order to stop emerging threats and crush existing ones. Yes, it's not popular to put our soldiers in danger, but it's necessary in order to save thousands of lives, and... and I have to say, the current administration, which I'm part of, seems to be taking the popularity consideration way too seriously. It's dangerous, and I tried to warn, but I'm alone there against people like Secretary Clark.
Anderson Cooper: Would you have us return to Iraq?
Joe Lieberman: No, not right now. There's nothing to do there at the moment. I continue to believe though, that the Iraq War was necessary for the security of the Middle East and our allies, such as Israel.
Wesley Clark: Anderson, since my name was mentioned, I believe I should get the right to respond. Secretary Lieberman is trying to portray himself as the sole sane voice in the cabinet, but that's false. Unlike Joe, I will absolutely not be speaking or even hinting at the events there, but that I can say- Secretary Lieberman isn't a voice of reason, he's a voice of warmongering. These are some very problematic views for a President. I am, and always were, a voice that promoted clear, level-headed thinking when it comes to the use of our military, and I believe that is what we need in our Commander-in-Chief.



Mary Landrieu: ...So this is why I voted 'no' on Clintoncare.  How can I consciously justify voting for something which might very well raise costs for everyone? I know the old argument that other countries are doing this- but we're not 'other countries'. We're America, and we're a special nation, but also a nation that poses difficulty. We must help the poor and jobless, but also keep our middle class strong.
Bernie Sanders: I'm sorry, Senator, but that's completely wrong. The only thing so special about us right now is that we do not provide healthcare, a basic right, to our citizens, and this must change. A single-payer system is the most sensible approach, and works wonderfully all over the world, providing this basic right to the poor and low middle class all over the globe. In fact, no one here supports this system but me, not even Senator Feingold. But until then, the Affordable Care Act is a step in the right direction- Senator Landrieu's vote against it raises the worry that she's just another politician bought by corporations.
Anderson Cooper: Senator Feingold, you were mentioned. Do you have a response to this?
Russ Feingold: Yes, well, I agree with many of Senator Sanders' points. The Affordable Care Act is a very good step, and the opposition of Senators Landrieu and Secretary Lieberman is worriesome. But in order to complete the step, this plan had to include a public option, that allowed the government to make sure prices don't go too high. That would be a very effective solution to the rise in prices Mary brought up, but the Republicans, as well as many Democrats like her, opposed it fiercely. Now they're fighting this plan because of prices. I ask you, is that right?



Howard Dean: You've seen the volume of the Republican obstructionism. It's mind-blowing. The Democratic Party needs a strong, experienced leader with a strong message, who can lead it capably. I'm that candidate. I'm a fighter, who was always a voice for the little guy in America, and my leadership of the DNC lead us to great gains. I have great respect for most of my opponents, but none of them has this record.
Evan Bayh: Governor, I respect your record, but we need a stable and steady hand. We need someone who can work across the isle and get things done, not someone who loses his mind to the sight of a Republican, and yet not someone who's sell every progressive value to win a vote. That is why I should be President.



Anderson Cooper: Senator Warner, other than your southern charm, what do you bring into the race?
Mark Warner: Well, isn't Southern charm enough? *Audience laughs.* You see, I think that my record in the Senate, my service for the people of Virginia and my enthusiasm to get things done, reform Washington to be more effective and work better for the American people and work with booth parties to improve our situation is more than enough. I'd gladly answer questions on both.



Overall, we could say that this night was quite good for most Democratic candidates. The stronger performers were, arguably, Feingold and Sanders, who managed to get their message out very convincingly, as well as Evan Bayh and Mark Warner, who were charming, charismatic and witty. Mary Landrieu and Joe Lieberman, despite attacks against them, did manage to get their message across and put their names forward, while Wesley Clark positioned himself as the foreign policy expert. Howard Dean, despite a strong oration, did not really manage to present a strong and convincing message, and that could harm him in the future. The effects of this debate are not yet apparent, and aren't expected to be too big, but it was a very good presentation of what the Democratic race is going to look like.

[America Needs R'hllor]

August 12th, 20111

GOP Candidates debate in Ames, Iowa

In the first debate where all major announced candidates met together, the GOP candidates for President debated in Ames, Iowa. It was the most watched of their debates by far. Unlike the first Democratic debate, this one was very heated and full of attacks and counterattacks- the candidates already knew each other's styles and were familiar with the dynamics between them. Let's look at some key moments:



Rick Santorum: Yes, I have adamantly opposed same-sex marriage or a civil union and will continue to do so. The sacred, traditional marriage between a man and a woman is a very important American and Christian value, and we must uphold it. The Democratic party, and, unfourtunately, some of my fellows here, want to undermine our moral values.
Bret Baier: Can you specify? Which of your fellows here were you talking about?
Rick Santorum: Jon Huntsman, for example. He supports civil unions. And possibly Mitt Romney, who was a strong advocate for "equality", and turned right only recently.
Mitt Romney: I think I have the right to reply here. I am opposed to same-sex marriage and civil unions, and I agree that traditional marriage is an important American value, but Senator Santorum is speaking as if gay and lesbian Americans aren't as good as other Americans. That's very wrong and unamerican, Senator. But, I also think that Governor Huntsman's support for civil unions makes you question his devotion to the values that guide America and the Republican Party. Working for President Obama as ambassador, and thus furthering his agenda, is disturbing too.
Jon Huntsman: I have to say, these attacks against me are absurd. Are Governor Romney and Senator Santorum looking at me as some easy target? I hope they aren't, because I'm not. LGBT people are Americans just like us, and the way Rick is speaking about them is very disturbing. They should have the freedom to live their lives as they wish, and the equality that this nation stands for. I do believe that marriage is between a man and a woman, but I don't see how a civil union, allowing them to express their love, can do any harm. As for Governor Romney's comment about my work as ambassador, this is shameful. I was called to duty by the Commander in Chief of our nation and, though I disagree with him on many issues, did my job. I put the country before anything else. Are you willing to do the same, Governor?



Michelle Bachmann: Ron Paul said in an interview that Hamas is the elected government in Gaza, and that Israel should've allowed the Mavi Marmara to get there. He even said that the flotilla raid was absolutely wrong. He's clearly not very supportive of Israel. This is not a tea-party value. It's wrong, and we must support our ally.
Ron Paul: What do you mean by 'support'? Make them buy only our weapons and comment on their every decision? Israel has the right to defend itself, but the 'aid' we're giving them does more harm than good. We should just stop intervening in their business.



Rick Perry: Well, we have a few other Governors here, but I'm the only one who was elected to three terms. Romney was elected to a mere one term, Huntsman and Jindal were elected to two. I'm also the most experienced true conservative here, and I'd be able to implement conservative agenda the best.
Bobby Jindal: Governor Perry, your comment is truly embarassing. I'm a true conservative, and my experienced in the House and in Lousiana is more than enough qualification. In fact, I was awarded the Thomas Jefferson Freedom award just a few days ago. This comment says more about Governor Perry than it says about me or my fellows here.


The debate had a few clear winners and losers. The losers were Rick Perry, whose lines were not good and easy to attack, and Mitt Romney, who seemed distracted and unfocuses. Some claim his wife's health could have a part in it. Meanwhile, Jindal and Huntsman performed very well, having some very good lines and deflecting attacks expertly. Ron Paul managed to get his agenda through very well, while Bachmann struggled to find her place among so many members of the hard right. More than anything, this debate could have a heavy influence on the Iowa Republican Staw Poll scheduled for tomorrow, where Paul, Bachmann, Santorum, Perry and Jindal are expected to make a serious play.

[America Needs R'hllor]

August 13th, 2011



Ames, Iowa: The most famous straw poll in the Primary season doesn't produce a clear victor

Despite some hopes that the Iowa Straw Poll, the Iowa Republican Party fundraiser held every four years, would clear the field of announced candidates, it seems like it probably will not have such an effect.
The clear losers of the poll, Mitt Romney and Jon Huntsman, didn't even participate in it. Meanwhile, Rick Perry and Bobby Jindal are not banking their hopes on Iowa, while minor candidate Fred Karger, who campaigned heavily to achieve anything in that poll, despite coming behind even candidates who did not participate, probably sees appearing in the poll as an achievenemt by itself.
The candidates who are banking their hopes on Iowa, Bachmann and Santorum, did pretty well, Bachmann coming very close to beating Ron Paul and Santorum in a respectable fourth place.
The winner of the poll, Ron Paul, will clearly be enjoying the media attention it will net him, though he only passed Bachmann by a few hundreds of votes. This Republican contest is clearly going forward without any major dropouts because of the Iowa Straw Poll.

[America Needs R'hllor]

August 14th, 2011, Polling updates: Romney, Bayh in trouble; Progressives surging

Democratic Primaries- National

Evan Bayh- 19%  (-2)
Wesley Clark- 16%  (+-0)
Russ Feingold- 14%  (+3)
Howard Dean- 13%  (-2)
Mark Warner- 13%  (+2)
Joe Lieberman- 8%  (+-0)
Bernie Sanders- 6%  (+3)
Mary Landrieu- 5%  (+-0)
Undecided- 6%  (-4)

Democratic Primaries- Iowa

Russ Feingold- 23%  (+8)
Evan Bayh- 20%  (-4)
Wesley Clark- 16%  (-1)
Howard Dean- 11%  (-1)
Mark Warner- 10%  (+1)
Bernie Sanders- 8%  (+4)
Joe Lieberman- 3%  (+-0)
Mary Landrieu- 2%  (-1)
Undecided- 9%  (-6)

Republican Primaries- National

Mitt Romney- 29%  (-8)
Rick Perry- 16%  (+2)
Bobby Jindal- 17%  (+5)
Ron Paul- 9%  (+-0)
Bachmann- 8%  (-2)
Huntsman- 6%  (+2)
Santorum- 5%  (-1)
Undecided- 10%  (+2)

Republican Primaries- Iowa

Ron Paul- 23%  (+5)
Mitt Romney- 22%  (-6)
Bobby Jindal- 14%  (+2)
Bachmann- 12%  (-1)
Santorum- 9%  (-3)
Rick Perry- 7%  (+2)
Huntsman- 4%  (+1)
Undecided- 9%  (+-0)

[America Needs R'hllor]

August 16th, 2011

Joe Lieberman campaigns in New Hampshire, slams opponents

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Rick Santorum, attempting to capture Evangelical support, campaigns all over Iowa

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August 18th, 2011

Giving up on Iowa and New Hampshire, Senator Landrieu descends upon South Carolina

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Jon Huntsman swoops into New Hampshire, pouring his resources into the state

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[America Needs R'hllor]

August 21st, 2011

BREAKING NEWS: GOV. MITT ROMNEY TO MAKE MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT


Anderson Cooper: Good evening. It's 18:32, and we've just recieved breaking news that Former Governor and Republican Presidentian Frontrunner Mitt Romney is about to make a major announcement from his home in Boston, Massachusetts.
Joining us now is Dana Bash, live via satallite from the rally where Governor Romney is about to make his announcement. Good evening, Dana.
Dana Bash: Good evening, Anderson. Glad to join you.
Anderson Cooper: Tell us, how is the atmosphere there, what are people thinking?
Dana Bash: There's a lot of confusion and uncertainty. No one really knows what kind of announcement this will be, and the Romney campaign is tight-lipped. We're expecting, maybe, some sort of a hyped major endorsement to give his campaign back the momentum they recently lost. Some are also speculating that this might have something to do with Ann Romney's health...
Anderson Cooper: Thank you, Dana, we're being told that Mitt Romney is going to give his announcement now. Let's tune in.

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[America Needs R'hllor]

August 21st, 2011

Political fallout of Romney's withdrawal begins; Huntsman, Jindal first to praise



After Governor Romney's shocking withdrawal from the Republican primary, the Republican field is in turmoil. Opponents are trying to capitalize on his freed supporters, but most of them appear unconvinced. Jon Huntsman said in an interview to ABC that "Utah is proud of the Romney family, and my repect for Mitt was great. The Republican field got a lot worse without Mitt, in my opinion. I wish him and Ann only well." Meanwhile, Bobby Jindal's campaign released a statement calling Romney "a true and principled conservative who was and is a boon to the Republican party".
Meanwhile, praises and wishes came from the other side of the aisle as well. White House Press Secretary Howard Wolfson said that "the President does not agree with Governor Romney on many issues, but she respects him as a smart and pragmatic political opponent, and as a good friend. She wishes his wife quick recovery, and hopes to see him engaged in politics." Secretary Joe Lieberman said that "Romney is a great friend and I would've loved running against him, that would've been the most respectful and friendly competition in history. I'm sad to see him leave the race."

August 23rd, 2011

Former President Bush "worried about Republican field"; Senator McCain: "Someone else should enter the race"



Over the last couple of days, two prominent Republicans expressed their desire to see another mainstream candidate replacing Mitt Romney in the Republican field. Former President George W. Bush released a statement saying that "The President is worried about the current field of Republican party. While there are some good people there, none of them seems to have the proper experience or the electability." Meanwhile, when asked by the press whethere he will endorse a new candidate now that Romney was out of the race, Senator John McCain said that he will "not endorse anyone yet, and I don't think I will unless someone new enters the race." When asked whether he thinks about running, McCain answered "no, absolutely not, but someone else should enter the race."

August 24th, 2011

Rick Perry in Iowa: I am the natural alternative to Mitt Romney



Campaigning in Ames, Iowa, Governor Rick Perry made an appeal to Romeny's supporters and tried to compare himself to the other Governor. He said that "I am also a Governor with a proven record, who is a strong and principled conservative." The Governor from Texas added that "I assure you- like Mitt would've been, I'll be a steady and experienced hand."
Polling indicates that Perry does manage to gain some of Romney's supporters, but most of them remain undecided.

August 25th, 2011

BREAKING: Quayle, Brown and Giuliani form exploratory committies



It seems like instead of the mainstream candidates Senator McCain and Former President Bush desired in the race, the Republican field might get even less friendly to the mainstream in the party. Outspoken Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, moderate Massachusetts Senator Scott Brown and gaffe-prone former Vice President Dan Quayle have all formed exploratory committees. A spoksperson for Giuliani said that "a run is not certain", while Senator Brown claimed that "I'm only looking into it". When asked whether his former Vice President would make a good President, Former President George H.W. Bush replied that "certainly, he would."

The establishment's saviour is coming? Former Governor Jeb Bush is said to be "contemplating a run"



Could Jeb Bush make a late entry into the Republican race and cruise to victory? The Republican's team certainly thinks so, as they replied that "yes, Governor Bush is considering a run for President and will decide soon." If he wants to enter before the deadline for many early contests arrives, it would have to happen soon.

[America Needs R'hllor]

I'd like to hear some opinions- which of the four newly speculated candidates would you like to see entering the race?

[America Needs R'hllor]

August 29th, 2011

BREAKING: Dan Quayle announces bid for the Republican nomination, shaking the field

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August 30th, 2011

Campaigning in Iowa, Bobby Jindal slams Quayle, Huntsman, Perry



Continuing his efforts to consolidate Romney's former supporters, Bobby Jindal attacked his opponents yesterday while campaigning in Iowa's rural towns. He started by tackling Vice President Quayle, who's seen as a strong contender to gain Romney's supporters, calling him "a blast from the past, and no more than that", an claiming that "Quayle will not bring a change, he'll only give us the same old Washington politics. I'm new, I'm change- and unlike some candidates who claim to bring change, I'm actually competent and have the experience to do it." He also addressed his old opponents, saying "who else is running, really? Perry, whose experience seems anulled when tackled with actualy policy? Huntsman, who should be a Democrat?"
These are considered moves to take down opponents for the Romney vote.

September 1st, 2011

It's official: Jeb Bush is running for President, announces in Tampa, Florida

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September 4th, 2011

Report: Brown, Giuliani not running for President

After forming exploratory comittees, Senator Scott Brown of Massachusetts and former Mayor Rudy Giuliani of New York have decided to back out. A statement released by Senator Brown's office said "The Senator has decided that a run is not likely to succeed, and will support another candidate when the time comes." Meanwhile, Giuliani himself said in an interview that he will "not run, because I don't really think it's the right environment for me."
Meanwhile, the Republican field is bracing itself for its first debate as a, hopefully, complete field, in three days. It's the first Romney-less debate, and may cause wild swings in the polls as more and more people tune in to the Primary contest following the shocking developments in it.

[America Needs R'hllor]

September 7th, 2011, polling updates before the 2nd Republican debate- Democratic field relatively stable, Republicans shaken by new candidates

Democratic Primaries- National

Evan Bayh- 21%  (+2)
Wesley Clark- 15%  (-1)
Russ Feingold- 15%  (+1)
Howard Dean- 14%  (+1)
Mark Warner- 13%  (+-0)
Joe Lieberman- 7%  (-1)
Bernie Sanders- 4%  (-2)
Mary Landrieu- 4%  (-1)
Undecided- 6%  (+-0)

Democratic Primaries- Iowa

Russ Feingold- 22%  (-1)
Evan Bayh- 22%  (+2)
Wesley Clark- 14%  (-2)
Howard Dean- 11%  (+-)
Mark Warner- 11%  (+1)
Bernie Sanders- 10%  (+2)
Joe Lieberman- 2%  (-1)
Mary Landrieu- 2%  (+-0)
Undecided- 8%  (-1)

Republican Primaries- National

Jeb Bush- 20%  (+20)
Bobby Jindal- 14%  (-2)
Rick Perry- 13%  (-3)
Dan Quayle- 12%  (+12)
Ron Paul- 9%  (+-0)
Jon Huntsman- 8%  (+2)
Michelle Bachmann- 5%  (-1)
Rick Santorum- 4%  (-1)
Undecided- 15%  (+5)

Republican Primaries- Iowa

Ron Paul- 24%  (+1)
Jeb Bush- 17%  (+17)
Bobby Jindal- 11%  (-3)
Michelle Bachmann- 9%  (-3)
Dan Quayle- 8%  (+8)
Rick Perry- 7%  (+-0)
Rick Santorum- 5%  (-4)
Jon Huntsman- 3%  (-1)
Undecided- 16%  (+7)

[America Needs R'hllor]

September 12th, 2011

Second Republican Debate

Held in Tampa, Florida, the second debate, which for the first time did not include Governor Mitt Romney and did include the two new candidates, Jeb Bush and Dan Quayle, was pretty heated. It was the first Tea Party sponsored debate in history. While Bush and Quayle were careful not to attack each other two much yet, the veteran candidates piled attacks on both, trying to whittle down their momentum and attract the Romney supporters who are now undecided to themselves. Let us look at a few key moments:



Wolf Blitzer: ...So are you saying, that if a man did not get a health insurance for whatever reason, something happens to him and he's in comma, that the government should just let him die?
Audience (shouting) Yes!
Ron Paul: This is the true freedom- liberty to take risks. This imaginary man took a risks, it was his responsibility to purchase a health insurance, and I would strongly recommend anyone to do so. Our freedom is our most treasured resource, and so we must be free do purchase our own chosen insurance or not to do so. Access to healthcare is a right, but the government can't force it just like it can't force people to vote.
Jon Huntsman: Well, I'm as supportive as anyone else of conservative economic policy, but this is just unreasonable. We need to protect life and care for life, so I think it's very conservative to say that while a free market is the best market, we must show compassion and help people who can't purchase health insurance to do so with programs such as medicaid. But no one should be forced to do it- this is not freedom, this is authoritative government. That's why I'd repeal Clintoncare.



Wolf Blitzer: Vice President Quayle, in the last few days you've been heavily critisized by your opponents for being a candidate of a distant past, who's out of touch with the present. Do you have anything to say about that?
Dan Quayle: I certainly do. Well, I'm not the oldest candidate on this stage. This honour belongs to Representative Paul, and by the way, I'm not saying it sarcastically. In fact, I'm just 66 years old. Still young and kicking. So no, I think calling me out of touch is delusional and assumes that you need to have recently held a public office to be a presidet. I think the opposite- I'm the candidate of change, because I'm not involved in the political dealings and plottings we have today.
Rick Perry: Honestly, Vice President, I respect you, but you don't have what it takes to rule our nation. You're a relic of the past, who does not really look at the future, and there's a reason you haven't been elected before like other Vice Presidents- you're gaffe-prone and inexperienced, despite your Vice Presidency.
Dan Quayle: What you're saying is really disrespectful of the legacies of Reagen and H.W. Bush, and shows that you're really just showing such conservativeness not out of reverence to this movement, but out of electoral need. I'm the only candidate who can, and will, bring us to the glory days of Reagen- and I dare any of my opponents to say that they do not want to have those days back.
Bobby Jindal: I respect Reagen's legacy, and he was one of the best Presidents we've ever had. But the Vice President is clearly showing that he's running merely out of nostalgia, and we need to look at the future of the conservative movement. I also find it ironic that Governor Perry called Dan gaffe-prone, because it was a clear description of himself. It's pretty clear, I think- I'm the only candidate with the experience, competence, temprament, conservative bona-fides and the distanglement from D.C. politics in the field.



Wolf Blitzer: Senator Santoum, do you still stand behind your claim that you're the only candidate who truly stands beside the moral and conservative values of America?
Rick Santorum: Certainly, I do. What changed? Governor Romney, who I really respect but who I did think was not the right candidate, left, and the two new candidates who entered are certainly not standing besides American values and the American people. Dan Quayle is basically a lobbist now, and Jeb Bush? Jeb has shown support to harming our values, and more than that, he's the biggest Washington insider on this stage.
Jeb Bush: Well, I think that Senator Santorum's fanatic repitition of the phrase 'traditional values' is really getting old. It won't convince the American people to vote for him. We need a competent and efficient conservative in the White House, and I've shown myself as all three when I became one of the most successful governors of Florida in recent weeks. And that's why I entered- Mitt would've made a good candidate, but there's no one else in this field who can really fight for the American people.
Michelle Bachmann: This is laughable. Really, this is laughable. Jeb is not a true conservative, Jeb is a Washington insider who is bought by establishment politicians. All his life, he was loved and favoured by the political class of Washington, advanced and funded by them. We can't trust him to fight for us, and he'd be the second coming of Hillary Clinton!



All in all, this debate did not really gravely harm or greatly aided anyone, but it'll certainly have an effect. Jon Huntsman and Ron Paul both managed to articulate their unique message very capably, and isolate themselves from the field. Meanwhile, Governor Jindal decisively defeated Governor Perry in their exchanges, positioning himself as a solid conservative candidate. Michelle Bachmann continued in her fiery way of debating, but there is a sense that she didn't really manage to make a breakthrough, an the same is true for Santorum.
Bush and Quayle both faced, as mentioned, heavy fire.  Both handled it pretty well, but it seemed like Quayle managed to do better, making a solid appeal to the conservative base, while Bush came off as an elitist insider.

Author's note: As you might have noticed, I've cut the amount of Republican debates, mainly to allow the Democratic ones space. Hope you don't mind

[America Needs R'hllor]

September 14th, 2011

Republican post-debate polling update: Quayle climbing; Paul, Bush keep lead in Iowa

Republican Primaries- National

Jeb Bush- 19%  (-1)
Dan Quayle- 15%  (+3)
Bobby Jindal- 15%  (+1)
Rick Perry- 12%  (-1)
Ron Paul- 8%  (-1)
Jon Huntsman- 8%  (+-0)
Michelle Bachmann- 5%  (+-0)
Rick Santorum- 5%  (+1)
Undecided- 13%  (-2)

Republican Primaries- Iowa

Ron Paul- 24%  (+-0)
Jeb Bush- 18%  (+1)
Bobby Jindal- 11%  (+-0)
Dan Quayle- 10%  (+2)
Michelle Bachmann- 8%  (-1)
Rick Perry- 8%  (+1)
Rick Santorum- 7%  (+2)
Jon Huntsman- 3%  (+-0)
Undecided- 10%  (-5)

Republican Primaries- New Hampshire

Jeb Bush- 18%
Ron Paul- 16%
Rick Perry- 11%
Jon Huntsman- 11%
Dan Quayle- 8%
Bobby Jindal- 7%
Michelle Bachmann- 4%
Rick Santorum- 3%
Undecided- 22%

Republican Primaries- South Carolina

Jeb Bush- 24%
Bobby Jindal- 16%
Rick Perry- 15%
Dan Quayle- 12%
Michelle Bachmann- 9%
Ron Paul- 8%
Rick Santorum- 5%
Jon Huntsman- 2%
Undecided- 9%

[America Needs R'hllor]

14th September, 2011

Second Democratic Debate

The debate, held in Charleston, South Carolina, was a relatively calm one without many major highlights or controversies. However, one big moment was when the Progressive Champions, Russ Feingold and Bernie Sanders, clashed and then proceeded to attack Vice President Bayh. Let's look at this moment:



Anderson Cooper: Senator Feingold, why do you think that you're the best candidate to represent the interests of Progressive Democrats?
Russ Fenigold: Well, Anderson, I think it's fairly clear. I can get things done, and I've already shown it. By using pragmatism, compromise and hard work, I managed to hammer through many policies that are very important for progressives, for example, the campaign finance reform bill sponsored by myself and Senator McCain. Senator Sanders is a great and progressive guy, but he just isn't in a position to accomplish actual things. He isn't willing to think of solutions which aren't ideologically pure.
Bernie Sanders: I'm sorry, Senator, but this is wrong. If pragmatism, compromise and hard work means bowing before corporate interests in order for them to allow you to accomplish anything, then no thanks. I have a lot of respect for Russ, but he's too beholden to the interests of the Democratic Establishment and just wouldn't be in a position to accomplish progressive goals. We need someone new, without ties to the establishment, who can shake up the system and, yes, get things done, which I showed I can during my tenure as Mayor of Burlington and Senator from Vermont.
Evan Bayh: You can call yourself a progressive all you want, but that rings hollow when you critisize the most progressive administration ever all the time.
Bernie Sanders: Vice President, what you don't seem to understand or are pretending not to is that I'm critisizing the current administration exactly because I'm a progressive. President Clinton had some great cabinet members, not including the two standing on-stage today, and congressial majorities until 2010. She could've ushered in a new progressive era after the Bush administration's darkness, but instead she chose to bow before corporate interests, and cause stagnation instead of progress, and you were a big part of it, Vice President. Students are being crushed by crippling debts, jobs are moving overseas at an alarming pace, and we need this fixed. President Clinton did not seem willing to fix it, and you, Evan, are a part of the problem, not the solution.
Russ Feingold: I agree with Senator Sanders here. Vice President Bayh was and is getting many donations from donors and corporations with clear interests, and it showed during his time in the Vice Presidency. We need someone who can stand up to corporate interests and fight for the regular American's interests.



So, this was a particularly good debate for Bernie Sanders. Russ Feingold, Mark Warner and Howard Dean managed to shine as well, getting quite a lot of attention and enthusiasm, while Lieberman and Clark continued trading blows in their continued bitter rivalry which is harming both. Landrieu didn't do badly, but didn't particularly shine either. Evan Bayh, on the other hand, will probably not wish to rewatch footage from tonight.

Author's note: the next debates will probably have less details than before. Writing something for each candidate in each debate is probably pointless after the first few, so though there will be some very important highlights in the coming debates (is Perry still doing well in the polls? ), they won't be so big.

[America Needs R'hllor]

17th September, 2011

Democratic Post-Debate Polling Update: Sanders surging, Bayh falling; New Hampshire a Dead-heat; Frontrunner Uncertain

Democratic Primaries- National

Evan Bayh- 17%  (-4)
Howard Dean- 15%  (+1)
Wesley Clark- 14%  (-1)
Mark Warner- 14%  (+1)
Russ Feingold- 13%  (-2)
Bernie Sanders- 9%  (+5)
Joe Lieberman- 7%  (+-0)
Mary Landrieu- 4%  (+-0)
Undecided- 7%  (+1)

Democratic Caucuses- Iowa

Russ Feingold- 19%  (-3)
Evan Bayh- 17%  (-5)
Bernie Sanders- 14%  (+4)
Wesley Clark- 13%  (-1)
Howard Dean- 12%  (+1)
Mark Warner- 11%  (+-0)
Joe Lieberman- 3%  (+1)
Mary Landrieu- 3%  (+1)
Undecided- 10%  (+2)

Democratic Primaries- New Hampshire
Evan Bayh- 16%
Howard Dean- 16%
Bernie Sanders- 15%
Russ Feingold- 14%
Joe Lieberman- 13%
Mark Warner- 8%
Wesley Clark- 7%
Mary Landerieu- 2%
Undecided- 9%

Democratic Primaries- South Carolina
Evan Bayh- 22%
Mark Warner- 20%
Mary Landerieu- 12%
Wesley Clark- 9%
Joe Lieberman- 9%
Howard Dean- 7%
Russ Feingold- 6%
Bernie Sander- 3%
Undecided- 12%