Blood, Sweat, and Gore Gameplay Thread

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With the opening of February, eighteen candidates (eight Democrats, nine Republicans, and independent Donald Trump) had either declared their candidacies or expressed enough interest to bring about wide media speculation about when (rather than if) they would do so. On the Democratic side, many see Hillary Clinton, Joe Lieberman, and Tom Daschle as the frontrunners, although the five other candidates have made clear that they do not see any of these three as inevitable, nor will they back down from the challenge. On the Republican side, some pundits see this as a race between Senators John McCain and George Allen, but the other seven candidates are making clear that it would be unwise to claim this is how the race will end up. With that, the phrase of the day seems to be a simple one: Game on!

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Election Update 2008
with your host, Tom Brokaw

Brokaw: Good evening. I'm Tom Brokaw, and welcome to a new series that will be shown on several news platforms over the next almost two years, Election Update 2008. I'll be your host this evening as we go over the events of the campaign trail and have a special interview.

Brokaw: Well, the first bit of news is obviously the number of candidates we've had announce so far for President: twenty all told just so far. Aside from that, many of them have already received endorsements, including many early state officials, including New Hampshire Governor Judd Gregg, who has endorsed Utah Governor Jon Huntsman, Jr., as well as both Senators from South Carolina, who have split between Kentucky Governor Ernie Fletcher and Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal.

Brokaw: And now, of course, for our special guest tonight, Virginia Senator George Allen. Senator, how are you tonight?

Allen: I'm good, Tom. Glad to be here.

Brokaw: And we're glad to have you, as well. Now then, businessman Donald Trump’s independent campaign shares with your own a disdain for the liberal policies of the Gore administration. Do you believe Mr. Trump could be a general election spoiler for Republicans, and yourself in particular, and how do you intend to deal with such a case if so?

Allen: Well, Donald Trump is a man I've known for quite a few years, but I don't think he will be a threat to much of anyone in November, and I'm not certain that Mr.Trump will even be on the ballot in November. If he is, I think we will be able to show how over the years has been in favor of the abhorrent practice of abortion, how he has supported the unconstitutional and socialistic universal healthcare plan put forward by Bill and Hillary Clinton, and how he is simply just a fraud the man is not a conservative, but someone trying to push forward the liberal agenda for 4 more years, but the American people know that, so I don't need to tell them. We will win this election in November of 2008, and we will return to the White House, by defeating the big government and radical social agenda put forward by the Gore administration.

Brokaw: Strong confidence regarding such a possibility. Now then, many on the left have been swift to condemn you for your ardently homophobic stance on marriage. What do you have to say in response to these people?

Allen: I am not a homophobe, I do not hate gay people. I believe in the American values that many people do, gay or straight. I think that the left's radical social agenda, Gay Marriage, Abortion For All, and allowing the American Flag to burn, is a betrayal of the American way of life and of American values. As President, we will return our nation to values, we will have no more activist judges because they don't follow the Constitution, they follow their own personal interests. As President, I am pledging a return to normalcy, a return to the time when all Americans including the unborn had the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Brokaw: A strong fighter for conservatism, but not hatred. Now then, assuming you do win the Presidency next year, what would you first 100 days be like?

Allen: When we win the White House in November, we will have majorities in both houses of Congress. My first priority is to pass the Defense of Marriage Amendment to enshrine in our constitution the sanctity of marriage being between one man and one woman. We will then pass tax cuts slashing the amount all Americans pay, because as Ronald Reagan proved lower taxes increase revenue, because people are able to invest more into the economy, and the radical left has put business in a stranglehold not allowing any movement by the hardworking middle and working-class Americans that need some relief from the stranglehold of taxes and regulations. We also need to pass the Balanced Budget Amendment and the Flag Desecration Amendment, because we cannot continue to allow those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our nation to be disrespected by cowards who have never sacrificed anything. For the balanced budget amendment, a country is like a business and I've had a long career in many businesses we can't keep running a deficit because sometimes we're going to have to pay it back, we're gonna balance the budget and we're going to do it in my first term and we're going to constitutionally enshrine the balanced budget in the constitution.

Brokaw: A hearty 100 days to start off a new term. Finally, Senator, if you could say one thing to the American people, what would it be?

Allen: When our nation was founded 200 years ago, America was the land of the free, America was the land of the bold, and America was the land of the beautiful. Under these last 16 years, of far-left economics and a radical social agenda, the American values that many have fought for so long to protect are being trampled by Activist judges, who do not care about the Constitution, when you vote in November I ask you if you want a return to American values if you want less regulation, and lower taxes vote for me because I want a return to normalcy.

Brokaw: Senator Allen, always a pleasure to have you on.

Allen: Always one to be here, Tom.

Brokaw: And that will be all for tonight. Tune in Wednesday when we interview Kentucky Governor Ernie Fletcher.

Brokaw: Until then, I'm Tom Brokaw, and this has been your Election Update.

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Election Update 2008
with your host, Tom Brokaw

Brokaw: Good evening. I'm Tom Brokaw, and welcome to tonight's edition of Election Update 2008.

Brokaw: And tonight we see some intrapartisan division as Senators Allen and McCain go at it in the Republican primary, while the Democrats are beginning to have their own internal debate about modifications to President Gore's healthcare plan; Senator Feingold, in particular, has been loudly calling for additional provisions to the plan, although President Gore has not responded to these demands. As well, we can announce that George Allen won the CPAC presidential preference poll with 24% of the vote, followed by John McCain with 17% and Bobby Jindal with 11%.

Brokaw: And now, of course, for our special guest tonight, Kentucky Governor Ernie Fletcher. Governor, how are you tonight?

Fletcher: I'm good, Tom. Glad to be here.

Brokaw: And we're glad to have you, as well. Now then, despite outcry from some commentators, you seem to have a strong lead in your gubernatorial race despite simultaneously running for President. What do you think this says about your popularity among your constituents?

Fletcher: Well, I would first like to point out that, at the moment, I am only exploring a Presidential run, but I am humbled by the support from my fellow Kentuckians. We've put Kentucky on the right path, reversed a billion-dollar deficit, cut taxes for everyone, and still increased state education and infrastructure funding. We've made progress in virtually every facet of life. Just four years ago, when the people of Kentucky gave me the opportunity to serve as Governor, we were faced with a stagnant economy, slow job growth. Now, we're fourth in the nation in job growth, and we're one of the fastest growing economies. We're taking on the union bosses, and we're giving people long-needed economic relief. Kentuckians see the progress we're making, and they've got no room for petty politics in their voting decision. We've proven that government was not the solution to our problems, government was the problem. I would be even more humbled if my fellow Kentuckians gave me another four years to keep moving Kentucky forward.

Brokaw: A man humbled by the support of his constituents. Now then, as a former medical professional, what are your thoughts on Gorecare, Governor Schweitzer’s healthcare plan for Montana, and Senator Feingold's list of additions to Gorecare?

Fletcher: I've been in many occupations throughout my life: fighter pilot, engineer, Congressman, now a Governor, but the most passion I've felt in an occupation was in the health care field. In Kentucky, it's been one of my top priorities to protect our sick and elderly and advance Kentucky's healthcare market, with the 'Get Healthy, Kentucky' initiative. Now, it's my opinion that the best way to get more people on healthcare is not to expand the ever-growing role of the federal government in health insurance. The solution is not more government, more government is the problem. I will oppose any new attempts to grow the federal government's role into the healthcare market. What we need right now is a free market approach to healthcare that allows private insurers to compete for lower costs, while repealing current intrusive regulations that allow insurance companies to become monopolies.

Brokaw: A strong supporter of the free market in the medical field. Now then, assuming you do win the Presidency next year, what would you first 100 days be like?

Fletcher: Well, we might be getting a little ahead of ourselves there, but what must be the priority for whoever the next President is is restoring the American social fabric, rolling back the role of the federal government, and re-igniting the American economy. If the Republican Party wins a resounding mandate in 2008, our first priorities must include defending and declaring the right to life, preserving the sanctity of marriage, and unleashing the power of the American economy. These past sixteen years have proven exactly why social liberalism and big government policies are not successful; the first actions of the next President should be undoing these doctrines. A broad tax cut for everyone, undoing job-killing regulations, and eliminating our deficit - this is what the next President must do to reignite and rebuild the might of the American economy.

Brokaw: A strong push for a more conservative America. Finally, Governor, if you could say one thing to the American people, what would it be?

Fletcher: Just 26 years ago, Ronald Reagan was sworn in as President and declared in his inaugural address that, "in this present crisis, government is not the solution to our problems, government is the problem." After sixteen years of an abandonment of this principle, the American people have witnessed the faults of it. Whoever we elect this November, it is critical to the future of our free society that we elect someone committed to returning to the values of freedom, family values and small government.

Brokaw: Governor Fletcher, always a pleasure to have you on.

Fletcher: Always one to be here, Tom.

Brokaw: And that will be all for tonight. Tune in Friday when we interview Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer.

Brokaw: Until then, I'm Tom Brokaw, and this has been your Election Update.

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MORNING CONSULT RELEASES FIRST POLLS FOR 2008 RACE

Democrats
Senator Hillary Clinton - 20%
Representative Barbara Lee - 10%
Senator Russ Feingold - 10%
Vice President Joe Lieberman - 8%
Senator Tom Daschle - 7%
Governor Brian Schweitzer - 7%
Senator Barack Obama - 5%
Governor Kathleen Sebelius - 5%
Senator Blanche Lincoln - 3%
Governor Phil Bredesen - 3%
Former Senator Sam Nunn - 2%
Former Senator Mike Gravel - 1%

Republicans
Senator George Allen - 23%
Senator John McCain - 22%
Governor Ernie Fletcher - 9%
Governor Bobby Jindal - 7%
Governor Jon Huntsman, Jr. - 5%
Representative Ron Paul - 5%
Governor George Pataki - 4%
Mayor Michael Bloomberg - 3%
Former Defense Secretary Colin Powell - 1%
Representative Adam Putnam - 1%

General Election

If the election were held today, who would you vote for?

Generic Democrat - 41%
Generic Republican - 40%
Mr. Donald Trump - 7%
Undecided - 12%

(Note: these polls are neither prohibitive nor set in stone; things can change as the race goes on, so don't feel discouraged if you're behind right now)

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Election Update 2008
with your host, Tom Brokaw

Brokaw: Good evening. I'm Tom Brokaw, and welcome to tonight's edition of Election Update 2008.

Brokaw: And tonight is marked by the first major polls of the election season, which shows Senators Hillary Clinton, John McCain, and George Allen out front in the races for presidential nominations currently, but it is still early, and these factors may change.

Brokaw: And now, of course, for our special guest tonight, Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer. Governor, how are you tonight?

Schweitzer: I'm good, Tom. Glad to be here.

Brokaw: And we're glad to have you, as well. Now then, you’ve recently introduced healthcare legislation that would go much further than President Gore’s policy; would you push a similar bill as President, and, given the difficulty this more moderate version has been having, how do you intend to pass it?

Schweitzer: Tom, I support the President's efforts. I hope his bill passes, it will bring more affordable care those who need it. But I believe in many respects this bill doesn't do enough to protect the vulnerable. There are a lot of Democrats and Republicans who have taken the corporate cash on this issue and they've stopped President Gore from doing more, they've tied his hands up. In Montana we've tried to do things differently, I strongly believe in our federalist system, and we're trying to deliver affordable care to every Montanan. If elected President I'd work on the President's proposal and try to incorporate a public insurance option that all evidence shows would boost competition and reduce costs. But what's also so important, Tom, is the prescription drug issue, our seniors are paying way way too much for survival, yes surviving of these necessary medications. In Montana we're letting far cheaper Canadian drugs in to boost competition, and I'd do that at the national level. Our seniors deserve it and golly they need it.

Brokaw: A number of measures expected to cut costs substantially. Now then, despite President Gore twice losing your state by more than 15 points, you have consistently held a more than 60% approval rating for most of your term as Governor. Do you believe this means you could make inroads into the Plains states if you’re the nominee?

Schweitzer: Oh yes I do, Tom. We can't afford to write off the west, we can't afford to write off any state in this election. In Montana, what I did is I took over the middle, me and a Republican teamed up to push for common sense policies. We pushed for cheaper prescription drugs, energy jobs, and affordable healthcare. There's no reason Democrats can't win the west, and that's why I'm making the case for these progressive policies. Progressives used to win big in the plains, Theodore Roosevelt, Bob La Follette, Franklin Roosevelt, we can't just ignore them. If Democrats write off "red state" America, we will lose, but I'm not doing that. I'm making the case to these states that these policies are the right ones, and when you make the argument, Tom, you can win.

Brokaw: A string of ardent progressives who fought to win all of the country, not just the parts they could win. Now then, assuming you do win the Presidency next year, what would you first 100 days be like?

Schweitzer: I'm happy you asked, Tom. The first thing I'd so is a posthumous pardon for all those imprisoned during the First World War for violations of the Sedition Acts. These were unconstitutional laws, and they are a national disgrace. I can tell you my grandparents had to prostrate and humiliate themselves just to prove they were Americans and it ain't right. Then I'd slash the red tape getting in the way of our energy independence, I'd invest and make it easier for an American energy explosion. Biofuels, solar, hydro, natural gas, coal liquifying, you name it. Energy jobs through the roof and gas prices falling to the floor. Then I'd tell Mexico and Canada to come back to the table to renegotiate NAFTA, we gotta get a better deal, Tom, we're hemorrhaging jobs and we gotta stem the bleeding. And you know I gotta make sure our small towns and farmers are getting their due, we're gonna smash the monopolies and trusts that are running all over our farmers.

Brokaw: A call for more jobs for the American people; can't go wrong with that. Finally, Governor, if you could say one thing to the American people, what would it be?

Schweitzer: Well one thing I'd say is that if you're concerned where this country is headed, if you believe that the choice between right wing Republicans determined to tear up the social safety net and Democrats who think everything is fine is an unfair one, if you believe that the Democratic Party ought to be the party of the people, then I ask for your vote. We can pick a status quo candidate, or we can pick a people's democrat. I'm gone out to small town America and I know if we make the case for populist policies, policies that put the little guy before Walmart and Goldman Sachs, we can win. If we put blue collar jobs before hedge fund profits, we can win. And if we pick a platform that puts people before politics, we can make this country prosper and progress like never before.

Brokaw: Governor Schweitzer, always a pleasure to have you on.

Schweitzer: Always one to be here, Tom.

Brokaw: And that will be all for tonight. Tune in Sunday when we interview Senator Russ Feingold from Wisconsin.

Brokaw: Until then, I'm Tom Brokaw, and this has been your Election Update.

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Morning Consult Democratic Primary Poll, 1-4 April 2007
Senator Hillary Clinton - 21%
Senator Russ Feingold - 11%
Representative Barbara Lee - 9%
Governor Brian Schweitzer - 9%
Senator Tom Daschle - 8% (suspended; endorsed Clinton)
Governor Kathleen Sebelius - 7%
Vice President Joe Lieberman - 6%
Senator Barack Obama - 6%
Former Senator Sam Nunn - 3%
Senator Blanche Lincoln - 2%
Former Senator Mike Gravel - 1%

Morning Consult Republican Primary Poll, 1-4 April 2007
Senator George Allen - 25%
Senator John McCain - 23% (suspended)
Governor Ernie Fletcher - 12%
Governor Bobby Jindal - 8%
Governor Mitt Romney – 6%
Representative Ron Paul - 6%
Governor Jon Huntsman, Jr. - 4%
Governor George Pataki - 4%
Mayor Michael Bloomberg - 2%
Former Defense Secretary Colin Powell – 1%

Who would you vote for in the 2008 general election?
Democratic Nominee - 41%
Republican Nominee - 40%
Mr. Donald Trump - 8%

Endorsements

Democrats

Hillary Clinton
Dianne Feinstein, U.S. Senator from California
Bill Clinton, 42nd President of the United States
Frank Cownie, Mayor of Des Moines, Iowa
Planned Parenthood
Tom Daschle, U.S. Senator from South Dakota
Tom Harkin, U.S. Senator from Iowa[/color]

Russ Feingold
Bruce Braley, U.S. Representative from Iowa’s 1st District
Dick Clark, former U.S. Senator from Iowa

Barbara Lee
NAACP
Xavier Becerra, U.S. Representative from California's 31st District
Jim Clyburn, U.S. Representative from South Carolina’s 6th District

Brian Schweitzer
Bernie Sanders, U.S. Senator from Vermont (Independent)
Tom Vilsack, former Governor of Iowa

Kathleen Sebelius
Ben Nelson, U.S. Senator from Nebraska

Joe Lieberman
None

Barack Obama
John Lewis, U.S. Representative for Georgia’s 5th District
Patty Judge, former Iowa Secretary of Agriculture

Sam Nunn
Jim Hodges, former Governor of South Carolina

Blanche Lincoln
Mark Pryor, U.S. Senator from Arkansas

Mike Gravel
None

Republicans

George Allen
Chuck Grassley, U.S. Senator for Iowa
Adam Putnam, U.S. Representative from Florida’s 12th District
Arnold Schwarzenegger, Governor of California
Mike Pence, U.S. Representative from Indiana’s 6th District
Tom Latham, U.S. Representative from Iowa’s 4th District
Steve King, U.S. Representative from Iowa’s 5th District
Chuck Norris, actor
Kid Rock, musician

John McCain
John Sununu, U.S. Senator from New Hampshire
Jeb Bush, former Governor of Florida

Ernie Fletcher
Lindsey Graham, U.S. Senator for South Carolina
Jeff Lamberti, U.S. Representative for Iowa’s 3rd District
National Right to Life

Bobby Jindal
Jim DeMint, U.S. Senator from South Carolina
Pete Hoekstra, U.S. Representative from Michigan's 2nd District

Mitt Romney
None

Ron Paul
Walter B. Jones, U.S. Representative from North Carolina’s 3rd District

Jon Huntsman, Jr.
Judd Gregg, Governor of New Hampshire

George Pataki
Charlie Bass, U.S. Representative for New Hampshire’s 2nd District
Jim Leach, U.S. Representative for Iowa’s 2nd District

Michael Bloomberg
Tom Corbett, Attorney General of Pennsylvania

Colin Powell
Susan Collins, U.S. Senator from Maine

Independents

Donald Trump
Jeff Sessions, U.S. Senator from Alabama (Republican)
Tim Allen, actor

Candidates received all reserved endorsements they could afford; if you would prefer to save up for a bigger reserved endorsement that you mentioned earlier, please let me know. The following candidates have whole credits they can still use to get endorsements now:

Kathleen Sebelius: 1
Joe Liebeman: FREE + 1
Mike Gravel: FREE
Mitt Romney: FREE + 1
Ron Paul: 1

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Election Update 2008
with your host, Tom Brokaw

Brokaw: Good evening. I'm Tom Brokaw, and welcome to tonight's edition of Election Update 2008.

Brokaw: And tonight is marked by several dropouts, including Congressman Adam Putnam, Senator Tom Daschle, and, most stunningly of all, Senator John McCain, who cited a cancer diagnosis as his reason for dropping out of the Republican race, where he was considered a frontrunner alongside fellow Senator George Allen.

Brokaw: And now, of course, for our special guest tonight, Senator Russ Feingold from Wisconsin. Senator, how are you tonight?

Feingold: I'm good, Tom. Glad to be here.

Brokaw: And we're glad to have you, as well. Now then, you’ve recently put out a statement listing your own set of ways in which you believe Gorecare could be built upon in a Feingold administration. Given the conservative distaste for the current proposal as it stand, how would you ensure its passage?

Feingold: Well, while I would vote for Gorecare today, as it is without any doubt an improvement from our current healthcare system which is built to satisfy the insurance and drug companies and their greed instead of offering quality health care to the American people, this is no time for half measures. When we are the only major country on Earth not to offer access to healthcare to every single citizen, it is not enough to reduce the uninsured number by half. We have to reduce it out of existence. This is why I came up with this plan which would expand access and regulate the insurance and drug companies to protect all Americans from their greed and from going bankrupt due to medical bills. And I will tell you why the Republicans really oppose this bill. They oppose it because the lobbyists and the corporations told them to. They are out of touch with the country, planning to fix a healthcare system from a parallel universe, and I will release Congress from the shenanigans of Wall Street and make it listen to the people again. This is how I will pass my plan.

Brokaw: A heavy dose of reality to be taken with Senator Feingold's healthcare proposal. Now then, many in the Democratic Party believe that your strongly left-wing views would make you a liability in the general election. How do you respond to these people?

Feingold: Well, I think that it is time to make bold, progressive choices. During the next 4 years, we have an unique opportunity to transform our country for the better, and we should not throw it away. And when I meet people around the country, they do not ask me how left wing I am, they ask me what are my plans to fix healthcare, how I am going to put food on their tables, or how I am going to improve the near-by public school, or how am I going to bring back jobs or release DC from the corporations and lobbyists. And after I tell them my actual plans, most of them tell me that they are common sense, things that need to be done regardless of their placement on a political landscape. We should focus on who can actually improve the lives of the people instead of ideological litmus tests.

Brokaw: Extremism in the defense of reason is no vice, it would seem. Now then, assuming you do win the Presidency next year, what would you first 100 days be like?

Feingold: Well, my first action as President will be to immediately start the process of either Repealing-and-Replacing NAFTA or, if Canada and Mexico disagree with that, sacking it all together, as well as ending and reversing tax breaks for outsourcers. Our workers and farmers have suffered long enough and I will end the devastating NAFTA and the help we give to the job stealing companies. After that, I will focus on tax reform and health care reform, and I will work tirelessly to see them both passed in order to restore fairness. I will order the Pentagon to give to me a report, within 50 days, of every ongoing military action and its use. I will take a hard look at them and I will keep what is necessary, but I guarantee that we will not have troops in Uganda or Botswana after this.

Brokaw: A more America-focused administration, without a doubt. Finally, Senator, if you could say one thing to the American people, what would it be?

Feingold: My fellow Americans, during the next 4 years we have an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to fundamentally change our country for the better. It is up to you whether you use it, but I ask you this - do you want affordable health care for all? Do you want the billionaires to pay more in taxes than a bus driver? Do you want for our troops to be where we need them not in faraway, random country? Do you want for devastating trade deals to be repealed? If you agree to this, I am your voice. I am with you and I will fight for you, and my record says that clearly.

Brokaw: Senator Feingold, always a pleasure to have you on.

Feingold: Always one to be here, Tom.

Brokaw: And that will be all for tonight. Tune in Tuesday when we interview former Governor George Pataki of New York.

Brokaw: Until then, I'm Tom Brokaw, and this has been your Election Update.

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Election Update 2008
with your host, Tom Brokaw

Brokaw: Good evening. I'm Tom Brokaw, and welcome to tonight's edition of Election Update 2008.

Brokaw: And tonight is marked by the increasing pressure by House Republicans on the question of Iraqi weapons of mass destruction, as Chairman King has ordered several subpoenas against leading American generals.

Brokaw: And now, unfortunately, Governor Pataki faced a scheduling conflict and will be unable to join us tonight.

Brokaw: And that will be all for tonight. Tune in Thursday when we interview Senator Hillary Clinton from New York.

Brokaw: Until then, I'm Tom Brokaw, and this has been your Election Update.

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Election Update 2008
with your host, Tom Brokaw

Brokaw: Good evening. I'm Tom Brokaw, and welcome to tonight's edition of Election Update 2008.

Brokaw: And tonight is marked by the dropout of Governor Jon Huntsman, Jr., as well as the results of the Democratic and Republican townhalls, which saw Senator Clinton, Governor Schweitzer, Senator Allen, and, belatedly, Senator McCain.

Brokaw: And now, of course, for our special guest tonight, Senator Hillary Clinton from New York. Senator, how are you tonight?

Clinton: I'm good, Tom. Glad to be here.

Brokaw: And we're glad to have you, as well. Now then, you currently have a double-digit lead in the Democratic race for President; what do you believe it is about yourself that’s created such appeal to voters?

Clinton: Well Tom, I personally think it's my experience, for the past 30 years I have done everything I could to work for the American people. In the 70's I worked for the Children's Defense Fund which expanded opportunities for children disadvantaged through their race, disability, wealth, and many other things. And in the '80s as First Lady of Arkansas, I helped establish the first teacher testing program so teachers know the subject they are teaching. And as First Lady of the United States, I helped expand healthcare to every child in America.

And as a Senator I have worked in a bipartisan manner to repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell to keep our country safe and expand opportunities, and that is what we need in a President.

Brokaw: A long history of success in public service. Now then, your two closest challengers in the race are both ardent progressives, while you yourself are portrayed as trending toward the more Gore-aligned “establishment” camp of the Democratic Party; if you are the nominee, how do you intend to win over Feingold and Lee voters?

Clinton: Well, I'm a progressive, but I am a progressive that gets things done. I am not just promising, ya know, free this and free that I am promising real solution for America, so let's not forget that. But I am fully confident that we will have a united party in November to defeat whoever the Republicans nominate, I would rather have any other Democrat in this race than the options on the Republican side. But look I intend on reaching out if I win the nomination I would love their idea's and I fully intend on including them in our platform.

Brokaw: A united party to quite possibly elect a third consecutive President. Now then, assuming you do win the Presidency next year, what would you first 100 days be like?

Clinton: My first 100 days will be focused on the American people, let's pass bipartisan education reform. Let's bring back the surplus of the first Clinton administration. Let's pass true Universal Healthcare, let's pass infrastructure reform, let's pass common-sense gun laws. these goals are not small but in times like these, we can not afford to think small. My goal as President in my first 100 days and even beyond that, is to restore the power to the people of America, I am a public servant, I work for them. And I intend on doing everything I can, White House or not to keep it that way.

Brokaw: A bright new America under a Clinton administration. Finally, Senator, if you could say one thing to the American people, what would it be?

Clinton: Believe. Believe in the American Dream, these are unprecedented times we are living in but we can take them on together. I don't just want to be a President for those that agree with me but especially for those who disagree. We need to take on big challenges and seize the opportunities that await us as a country. America is great because we are good! Let's not let bitter partisan politics divide us, but a common purpose unites us. I want to be President because I believe in that shining city on a hill. And with your help, we can make it a bit shinier.

Brokaw: Senator Clinton, always a pleasure to have you on.

Clinton: Always one to be here, Tom.

Brokaw: And that will be all for tonight. Tune in Saturday when we actually will interview former Governor George Pataki of New York.

Brokaw: Until then, I'm Tom Brokaw, and this has been your Election Update

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Morning Consult Democratic Primary Poll, 1-4 July 2007
Senator Hillary Clinton - 27%
Representative Barbara Lee - 20%
Senator Russ Feingold - 11%
Governor Brian Schweitzer - 9%
Governor Kathleen Sebelius - 9%
Vice President Joe Lieberman - 3%
Former Senator Sam Nunn - 2%
Former Senator Mike Gravel - 1%

Morning Consult Republican Primary Poll, 1-4 July 2007
Governor Ernie Fletcher - 27%
Senator George Allen - 24%
Governor Bobby Jindal - 13%
Representative Ron Paul - 11%
Governor George Pataki - 4%
Representative Melissa Hart - 3%
Former Governor Mitt Romney – 3%
Mayor Michael Bloomberg - 1%
Former Defense Secretary Colin Powell – 1%

Who would you vote for in the 2008 general election?
Democratic Nominee - 41%
Republican Nominee - 40%
Mr. Donald Trump - 8%

Endorsements

Democrats

Hillary Clinton
Dianne Feinstein, U.S. Senator from California
Bill Clinton, 42nd President of the United States
Frank Cownie, Mayor of Des Moines, Iowa
Planned Parenthood
Tom Daschle, U.S. Senator from South Dakota
Tom Harkin, U.S. Senator from Iowa
Leonard Boswell, U.S. Representative from Iowa’s 3rd District
Kamala Harris, District Attorney for San Francisco
Chuck Schumer, U.S. Senator from New York
Blanche Lincoln, U.S. Senator from Arkansas
Mark Pryor, U.S. Senator from Arkansas

Barbara Lee
NAACP
Xavier Becerra, U.S. Representative from California's 31st District
Jim Clyburn, U.S. Representative from South Carolina’s 6th District
Barack Obama, U.S. Senator from Illinois
John Lewis, U.S. Representative for Georgia’s 5th District
Patty Judge, former Iowa Secretary of Agriculture
Gavin Newsom, Mayor of San Francisco

Russ Feingold
Bruce Braley, U.S. Representative from Iowa’s 1st District
Dick Clark, former U.S. Senator from Iowa

Brian Schweitzer
Bernie Sanders, U.S. Senator from Vermont (Independent)
Tom Vilsack, former Governor of Iowa
Jeanne Shaheen, former Governor of New Hampshire

Kathleen Sebelius
Ben Nelson, U.S. Senator from Nebraska
Claire McCaskill, Governor of Missouri

Joe Lieberman
None

Sam Nunn
Jim Hodges, former Governor of South Carolina
Michael Moore, liberal activist and filmmaker

Mike Gravel
None

Republicans

Ernie Fletcher
Lindsey Graham, U.S. Senator for South Carolina
Jeff Lamberti, U.S. Representative for Iowa’s 3rd District
National Right to Life
John McCain, U.S. Senator from Arizona
John Sununu, U.S. Senator from New Hampshire
Jeb Bush, former Governor of Florida
George W. Bush, former Governor of Texas and 2000 presidential nominee

George Allen
Chuck Grassley, U.S. Senator for Iowa
Adam Putnam, U.S. Representative from Florida’s 12th District
Arnold Schwarzenegger, Governor of California
Mike Pence, U.S. Representative from Indiana’s 6th District
Tom Latham, U.S. Representative from Iowa’s 4th District
Steve King, U.S. Representative from Iowa’s 5th District
Chuck Norris, actor
Kid Rock, musician
Marco Rubio, Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives
Newt Gingrich, former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives
Nancy Reagan, former First Lady of the United States
Terry Branstad, former Governor of Iowa

Bobby Jindal
Jim DeMint, U.S. Senator from South Carolina
Pete Hoekstra, U.S. Representative from Michigan's 2nd District
Charlie Crist, Governor of Florida

Ron Paul
Walter B. Jones, U.S. Representative from North Carolina’s 3rd District
Gary Johnson, former Governor of New Mexico

George Pataki
Charlie Bass, U.S. Representative for New Hampshire’s 2nd District
Jim Leach, U.S. Representative for Iowa’s 2nd District

Mitt Romney
None

Michael Bloomberg
Tom Corbett, Attorney General of Pennsylvania

Colin Powell
Susan Collins, U.S. Senator from Maine

Independents

Donald Trump
Jeff Sessions, U.S. Senator from Alabama (Republican)
Tim Allen, actor

Candidates received all reserved endorsements they could afford; if you would prefer to save up for a bigger reserved endorsement that you mentioned earlier, please let me know. The following candidates have whole credits they can still use to get endorsements now:

Joe Liebeman: FREE + 1
Mike Gravel: FREE
Mitt Romney: FREE + 1
Ron Paul: 1
Russ Feingold: 1
Barbara Lee: 1

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RULES FOR DEBATE PARTICIPATION

The following rules will govern each debate:

The first debate will be posted later today and subsequent debates will be posted each Saturday. Each debate is due by the end of the day the following Saturday (i.e. the first one will be due June 20).

I'll put up a poll momentarily for how many debates we should have during the primaries. Each debate will have one winner (who will receive a boost in the polls and 3 free endorsement credits) and one runner-up (who will receive 2 free endorsement credits). Participation in each individual debate is optional, but the following rewards/penalties will be applied based on number of debates participated in:

5 debates: 2 free endorsement credits, as well as any winnings.
4 debates: 1 free endorsement credit, as well as any winnings.
2 or 3 debates: Any winnings.
1 debate: Unless you finish as either the winner or runner-up, your poll numbers will drop slightly.
0 debates: This will be viewed as a withdrawal from the race, regardless of previous participation or polling numbers.

If you find you cannot participate in a debate, please PM Aaron or I with an excuse (if it's personal, it does not need to be specific); the debate will be counted in your total as if you had participated, up to the point of being safe from a polling drop (while I do not believe any of you would make up excuses to get free credits without participating, I would rather be safe than sorry).

Each candidate will be asked to make an opening statement, answer one posted question relating to them specifically, and make a closing statement. Each candidate will be free to post a rebuttal that is no longer than 500 words; candidates are free to rebut opponents' statements from previous debates if they were posted after the previous debate's rebuttal (i.e. someone posts a rebuttal on the 18th, and someone else posts their main debate response on the 20th attacking the first player; the first player would then be allowed to rebut the statement posted on the 20th in the following debate's rebuttal phase).

Answers and statements will be judged on:

• Coherence (note: grammar =/= coherence; as you're playing as candidates who are giving these statements verbally, the omission of punctuation or incorrect capitalization will not result in docked points; in the same way, a grammatically perfect response that makes no actual sense will not be given additional points)
• Length (preferably 100-500 words for statements, and 100-250 words for question responses; the limits are set up in order to better simulate a debate environment, where candidates who talk for too short a period are often viewed as vague, while more verbose candidates often get cut off)
• General appeal (partly my judgment, partly RNG to prevent inherent bias from factoring too heavily into the calculation)

All candidates in the race at the beginning of a debate cycle will be allowed to participate, regardless of polling numbers. If you have any further questions regarding the debates, please post them in the signup thread, rather than PM-ing Aaron or I, so that everyone can benefit from the answer.

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FIRST DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE

All Images from Wikimedia Commons

Good evening and welcome to the first presidential debate of the 2008 election. I'm Tom Brokaw, coming to you from South Carolina State University in beautiful Orangeburg, South Carolina. Tonight, I'll be serving as your moderator for the Democratic presidential candidates. Later on, we'll have the Republican candidates hosted by Brian Williams, and tomorrow, Donald Trump's townhall with Rachel Maddow.

For the last few weeks, we've asked the audience to send in questions that you would like to be asked to our presidential candidates, and the audience has delivered. Tonight's rules are simple. Each candidate will have a few moments for opening remarks. Questions will be posed by myself, with each candidate getting a specific one. Afterwards, candidates will be asked for closing statements and rebuttals, if they so wish.

Responses will be judged based on clarity, length, and of course response from you, the voters. Let's get started and one at a time introduce the Democratic candidates for President of the United States...

New York Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton...

Wisconsin Senator Russ Feingold...

Former Alaska Senator Mike Gravel...

Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer...

California Congresswoman Barbara Lee...

Vice President Joe Lieberman...

Arkansas Senator Blanche Lincoln...

Former Georgia Senator Sam Nunn...

Illinois Senator Barack Obama...

and finally, Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius

Questions for Specific Candidates

For Senator Clinton: You have called upon your fellow Democrats in a statement to support the eventual party nominee. Some of your critics have argued that making such a statement when you’re well ahead of the rest of the field is self-serving. How do you respond to this?

For Senator Feingold: Both of your endorsements so far have been from Iowa; do you believe this state is critical to your chances of victory in this primary, and why or why not?

For Senator Gravel: You’ve been out of the Senate for nearly three decades now. How do you intend to stand out in a field of far more recent politicians?

For Governor Schweitzer: You have championed both universal healthcare and gun rights as Governor. What inspired you to take this unconventional pairing of views?

For Congresswoman Lee: You have called for the total eradication of poverty in the United States by means of raising the minimum wage and various public service programs. What do you say to those who claim that this will only burden the government financially, and do little to actually fix the problem?

To Vice President Lieberman: Some on the left have claimed that you aren’t the right nominee for a party that “wants to move forward.” How do you respond to these attacks?

To Senator Lincoln: You have failed to garner much support outside your home state of Arkansas. Why do you believe this is?

Senator Nunn: You have distinguished yourself as a member of the more liberal wing of this primary, despite having a more moderate record in Congress. What has caused this change in thinking?

For Senator Obama: Despite initially being counted out and dismissed as inexperienced, you’re currently running almost even with several more experienced opponents. How do you intend to continue this trend?

For Governor Sebelius: You have suggested that Democrats need to “expand their tent” to win again after 16 years in the White House. What do you say to those who seem to want to drag the party farther to the left, potentially alienating some of the moderate independents and Republicans who, as you’ve said, have helped propel you to elected office in Kansas four times?

Answers are due June 20. Good luck!

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FIRST REPUBLICAN PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE

All Images from Wikimedia Commons

Good evening and welcome to the first GOP presidential debate. I'm Brian Williams, coming to you from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in beautiful Simi Valley, California. Tonight, I'll be serving as your moderator for the Republican presidential candidates. Earlier, my colleague Tom Brokaw was live from South Carolina State University in Orangeburg, South Carolina, with the Democratic candidates for president. Later on, Rachel Maddow will be at the University of Nevada in Las Vegas, Nevada hosting Independent candidate Donald J. Trump.

For the last few weeks, we've asked the audience to send in questions that you would like to be asked to our presidential candidates, and the audience has delivered. Tonight's rules are simple. Each candidate will have a few moments for opening remarks. Questions will be posed by myself, with each candidate getting a specific one. Afterwards, candidates will be asked for closing statements and rebuttals, if they so wish.

Responses will be judged based on clarity, length, and of course response from you, the voters. Let's get started and one at a time introduce the Republican candidates for President of the United States...

Virginia Senator George Allen...

New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg...

Kentucky Governor Ernie Fletcher...

Pennsylvania Congresswoman Melissa Hart...

Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal...

New York Governor George Pataki...

Texas Congressman Ron Paul...

Former Defense Secretary Colin Powell...

and lastly, former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney...

Questions for Specific Candidates

For Senator Allen: You have stated the Defense of Marriage Act “doesn’t go far enough.” How do you respond to gay rights activists who have expressed concern that such statements could inspire existing homophobes to commit violent acts against the gay community?

For Mayor Bloomberg: If elected, you would be the richest President in history. How do you intend to convince the average American that you understand their plight?

For Governor Fletcher: Despite placing yourself firmly in the conservative camp of this primary, you’ve been endorsed by former moderate frontrunner John McCain. What do you believe this says about your partywide appeal?

For Congresswoman Hart: You’ve played a large part in the rise of House Majority Leader John Boehner. Do you believe that this powerful ally could help you in your bid for the White House?

For Governor Jindal: You’ve recently been endorsed by the Governor of Florida, which has grown far more important due to its being moved up in the primary process. Do you believe a win there is key to your victory in the primaries?

For Governor Pataki: You have made regular reference to your tax cuts in New York as proof of your conservative chops; how would you reform the tax code as President?

For Congressman Paul: Despite only being a U.S. Representative, you’ve catapulted yourself to double digits in the primaries. How do you intend to continue this trend?

To Secretary Powell: Many Republicans have complained about your preaching Republican Party unity after serving six years under a Democratic administration. How do you respond to these people who claim you’re being an opportunist?

To Governor Romney: Despite entering the race in a reasonable position, you have since slumped to the lower single digits. What do you believe is the cause of this, and how do you intend to right it?

Responses are due June 20. Good luck!

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DONALD TRUMP PRESIDENTIAL TOWNHALL

All Images from Wikimedia Commons

Good evening and welcome to NBC's first official presidential townhall for businessman and host of The Apprentice Donald Trump. I'm Rachel Maddow, coming to you from the University of Nevada in beautiful Las Vegas, Nevada. I'll be moderating this townhall, calling upon people in the audience to address questions to Mr. Trump. Earlier, my colleague Tom Brokaw was live from South Carolina State University in Orangeburg, South Carolina, with the Democratic candidates for president. As well, Brian Williams was live from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California hosting the Republicans.

For the last few weeks, we've asked the audience to send in questions that you would like to be asked to Mr. Trump, and the audience has delivered. Tonight's rules are simple. Mr. Trump will have a few moments for opening remarks. Questions will be posed by audience members, with Mr. Trump being asked three. Afterwards, he will be asked for a closing statement and if he desires, a response to the party candidates who debated earlier.

Responses will be judged based on clarity, length, and of course response from you, the voters. Let's get started and one at a time introduce the most prominent independent candidate for President of the United States since 1996...

Donald J. Trump!

Questions for Mr. Trump

You have claimed that unemployment is in double digits, and encouraged people not to trust any other number. How do you come to this figure?

You have stated there will be “harsh consequences” against violent and human rights abusing dictators such as Saddam Hussein and Muammar Gaddafi, but have refused to encourage an invasion. How do you intend to carry out those consequences?

You have complained about the state of the border repeatedly. What solution do you propose to deal with the issue of illegal immigration?

Responses are due June 21. Good luck!
[/quote]

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Election Update 2008
with your host, Tom Brokaw

Brokaw: Good evening. I'm Tom Brokaw, and welcome to tonight's edition of Election Update 2008.

Brokaw: And tonight is marked by the dropout of Senator Blanche Lincoln, who at the same time endorsed Senator Clinton, the current frontrunner for the Democratic nomination.

Brokaw: And now, unfortunately, Governor Pataki has once again been forced to reschedule his interview. As a result, there will be no interview tonight.

Brokaw: And that will be all for tonight. Tune in Wednesday when we interview businessman Donald Trump from New York.

Brokaw: Until then, I'm Tom Brokaw, and this has been your Election Update

[Cabbage]

ill post responses today/tomorrow

Got it.

[Cabbage]

Election Update 2008
with your host, Tom Brokaw

Brokaw: Good evening. I'm Tom Brokaw, and welcome to tonight's edition of Election Update 2008.

Brokaw: And tonight is marked by the dropout of Senator Barack Obama, as well as his endorsement of Congresswoman Barbara Lee.

Brokaw: And now, of course, for our special guest tonight, businessman Donald Trump from New York. Mr. Trump, how are you tonight?

Trump: I'm good, Tom. Glad to be here.

Brokaw: And we're glad to have you, as well. Now then, for most of your adult life, you’ve been a name synonymous with wealth and success. How much do you think this image plays into your strong showing for an independent presidential candidate?

Trump: Well, Tom, people know me because for the past 20 or so years, I've built a real estate empire from practically nothing. It all started when my father gave me a loan of a million dollars, which is small when you look to how much I'm worth now, and from there, I began to build the Trump empire. I went out there and bought a great deal of failed estates and hotels and rebuilt them, such as Mar-a-Lago and Trump Tower. People have seen that I have been able to get the job done by working hard and making tough choices that politicians most likely will never make because they haven't run a business first hand, much less one like mine. I'll rebuild the economy and because of that, the people have faith in me.

Brokaw: A long history of success in business and real estate. Now then, Constitution Party Chairman Jim Clymer has stated that his desire is for the party to not nominate a candidate and instead endorse your bid. Would you accept such an endorsement, and why or why not?

Trump: I'd be happy to accept Jim's endorsement and have a fusion between the Constitution Party and my Independent Campaign in the states that I have the best chance of taking next November. Even better if the Party has a whole gives me their full support and requests their voters to support me instead. Make no mistake, I am running my own Third Party Campaign as an Independent with General Flynn, but I will not turn down the endorsement and support of anyone willing to do so. I also say this : Everyone has a choice. I want Jim to hold a party wide referendum on this before he makes anything official, otherwise, I won't accept it.

Brokaw: Let the will of the people be heard, even in party politics. Now then, assuming you do win the Presidency next year, what would you first 100 days be like?

Trump: It's quite simple, really. First, I'd tear up the free trade agreements that have stolen jobs across this great country and begin to make new ones while also begin to promote the American Small Business that is the backbone of our economy by updating and reforming the Small Business Administration, because it hasn't been touched in years. As I'm focused on the Economy, I'll also put pressure to increase border security, making it harder for illegals to cross the border and steal the jobs of legal American citizens and work to improve our crumbling infrastructure because you go around and you see bridges on the verge of collapse and roads filled with potholes, it's embarrassing. As to foreign policy, we'll bring back the ideas of Teddy Roosevelt. The words 'Speak Softly and carry a Big Stick' will hold a new meaning once I'm in charge as no human-rights abusing tyrant will be able to get off free without answering to a strike from the mighty hand of freedom known as the United States Air Force. America First is the creedo of my campaign, it is the creedo for Flynn, it is the creedo for everyone who supports me, and my first 100 days, to sum it all up for you, will be America First!

Brokaw: Economic revival on the horizon for America under a Trump administration. Finally, Mr. Trump, if you could say one thing to the American people, what would it be?

Trump: I'd say this: The establishment doesn't like me. I think it's clear because I speak my mind whereas they'd prefer if I give scripted speeches and empty promises that people have seen over, and over, and over again. When was the last time a person running for President was truly honest? Perot? The establishment went after him. Ford? He wasn't a media darling at all. What about good ol' Grover Cleveland? Well, 1884 was a very messy election. To put it simply, the media and the establishment don't like honest people running for President as its bad for their business. I'm not in it for politics or business, I'm in it for the American people and I'd rather take the full front of every slander than see a single American citizen harmed for agreeing with my views.

Brokaw: Mr. Trump, always a pleasure to have you on.

Trump: Always one to be here, Tom.

Brokaw: And that will be all for tonight. Tune in Saturday when we will interview Congresswoman Barbara Lee.

Brokaw: Until then, I'm Tom Brokaw, and this has been your Election Update

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PHASE II, TURN I: NOVEMBER 2007

And so we enter the phase just ahead of the opening primaries: the final months of 2007. On the Democratic side, Senator Hillary Clinton still leads the pack, but Congresswoman Barbara Lee continues to rise in the polls, giving the former First Lady the greatest challenge she's faced during this campaign. On the Republican side, Governor Ernie Fletcher and Senator George Allen are duking it out in their respective bids to win over the conservative wing of the party, with Governor Fletcher also attempting to fend off the ascendant Congressman Ron Paul, whose appeal among libertarians is growing at a staggering rate.

Among the more minor candidates (as of yet), Senator Russ Feingold and Governors Kathleen Sebelius and Brian Schweitzer are making plenty of noise for themselves, with some believing any of them could possibly find an angle to place themselves in the top tier of candidates. Meanwhile, on the Republican side, Congressman Paul now finds himself in double digits nationwide, behind only the top two and Governor Bobby Jindal, whose recent endorsement in Florida has made him a significant factor in the new early state. Congresswoman Melissa Hart has also launched a latecoming bid for the White House, and one that raises the interesting possibility: could both parties nominate women for the first time this year?

Finally, independent Donald Trump continues to find appeal among conservative, populist, and protectionist voters, with the United States Constitution Party holding a referendum among its members over whether or not they should simply not run a candidate and endorse Trump. When the votes were tallies, endorsing Trump had received more than 80% of the vote. Pastor Chuck Baldwin, long believed to be the most likely 2008 nominee, stated that he voted to endorse Trump because "we need a President who will fight for the everyday American and against large corporations' efforts to put millions out of work here so they can pay people a nickel a day overseas." Both Baldwin and Party Chairman Jim Clymer plan to campaign heavily for Trump over the next year.

EARLY STATE POLLS, 29-31 OCT 2007

IOWA
Hillary Clinton - 26%
Barbara Lee - 21%
Russ Feingold - 12%
Brian Schweitzer - 11%
Kathleen Sebelius - 9%
Joe Lieberman - 2%
Sam Nunn - 0%
Mike Gravel - 0%

Ernie Fletcher - 28%
George Allen – 23%
Bobby Jindal – 12%
Ron Paul – 12%
Melissa Hart – 5%
George Pataki - 3%
Mitt Romney – 2%
Michael Bloomberg - 1%
Colin Powell – 1%


NEW HAMPSHIRE
Hillary Clinton - 27%
Barbara Lee – 17%
Russ Feingold - 10%
Brian Schweitzer - 8%
Kathleen Sebelius - 7%
Joe Lieberman - 5%
Sam Nunn - 0%
Mike Gravel - 0%

Ernie Fletcher - 25%
George Allen – 22%
Ron Paul – 14%
Bobby Jindal – 10%
Melissa Hart – 4%
George Pataki - 4%
Mitt Romney – 3%
Colin Powell – 2%
Michael Bloomberg - 1%

NEVADA
Barbara Lee - 22%
Hillary Clinton - 21%
Russ Feingold - 14%
Brian Schweitzer - 9%
Kathleen Sebelius - 5%
Joe Lieberman - 2%
Sam Nunn - 0%
Mike Gravel - 0%

Ernie Fletcher - 26%
George Allen – 23%
Ron Paul – 15%
Bobby Jindal – 8%
Melissa Hart – 3%
George Pataki - 3%
Mitt Romney – 2%
Colin Powell – 1%
Michael Bloomberg - 1%

SOUTH CAROLINA
Barbara Lee - 33%
Hillary Clinton - 23%
Brian Schweitzer - 7%
Russ Feingold - 6%
Kathleen Sebelius - 4%
Joe Lieberman - 2%
Sam Nunn - 0%
Mike Gravel - 0%

George Allen – 30%
Ernie Fletcher - 22%
Bobby Jindal – 13%
Ron Paul – 8%
Melissa Hart – 5%
George Pataki - 2%
Mitt Romney – 2%
Colin Powell – 1%
Michael Bloomberg - 1%

MICHIGAN
Hillary Clinton - 25%
Barbara Lee - 21%
Russ Feingold - 14%
Brian Schweitzer - 7%
Kathleen Sebelius - 5%
Joe Lieberman - 2%
Sam Nunn - 0%
Mike Gravel - 0%

Ernie Fletcher - 29%
George Allen – 22%
Bobby Jindal – 14%
Ron Paul – 9%
Melissa Hart – 6%
George Pataki - 3%
Mitt Romney – 2%
Colin Powell – 1%
Michael Bloomberg - 1%

FLORIDA
Barbara Lee – 28%
Hillary Clinton - 25%
Russ Feingold - 8%
Brian Schweitzer - 5%
Kathleen Sebelius - 5%
Joe Lieberman - 2%
Sam Nunn - 0%
Mike Gravel - 0%

George Allen – 26%
Ernie Fletcher - 22%
Bobby Jindal – 16%
Ron Paul – 9%
Melissa Hart – 5%
George Pataki - 3%
Mitt Romney – 2%
Colin Powell – 1%
Michael Bloomberg - 1%

[Cabbage]

Morning Consult Democratic Primary Poll, 1-4 November 2007
Representative Barbara Lee - 24%
Senator Hillary Clinton - 22%
Senator Russ Feingold - 16%
Governor Kathleen Sebelius - 11%
Governor Brian Schweitzer - 10%
Vice President Joe Lieberman - 1%
Former Senator Mike Gravel - 1%

Morning Consult Republican Primary Poll, 1-4 November 2007
Representative Ron Paul - 35%
Governor Ernie Fletcher - 26%
Governor Bobby Jindal - 12%
Representative Melissa Hart - 6%
Governor George Pataki - 2%
Former Governor Mitt Romney – 1%
Mayor Michael Bloomberg - 1%
Former Defense Secretary Colin Powell – 1%

Who would you vote for in the 2008 general election?
Democratic Nominee - 40%
Republican Nominee - 39%
Mr. Donald Trump - 10%

Endorsements

Democrats

Barbara Lee
NAACP
Xavier Becerra, U.S. Representative from California's 31st District
Jim Clyburn, U.S. Representative from South Carolina’s 6th District
Barack Obama, U.S. Senator from Illinois
John Lewis, U.S. Representative for Georgia’s 5th District
Patty Judge, former Iowa Secretary of Agriculture
Gavin Newsom, Mayor of San Francisco
Barbara Boxer, U.S. Senator from California
Jennifer Granholm, Governor of Michigan

Hillary Clinton
Dianne Feinstein, U.S. Senator from California
Bill Clinton, 42nd President of the United States
Frank Cownie, Mayor of Des Moines, Iowa
Planned Parenthood
Tom Daschle, U.S. Senator from South Dakota
Tom Harkin, U.S. Senator from Iowa
Leonard Boswell, U.S. Representative from Iowa’s 3rd District
Kamala Harris, District Attorney for San Francisco
Chuck Schumer, U.S. Senator from New York
Blanche Lincoln, U.S. Senator from Arkansas
Mark Pryor, U.S. Senator from Arkansas
Ted Kennedy, U.S. Senator from Massachusetts
Oprah Winfrey, TV show host
Lou D’Allesandro, New Hampshire State Senator

Russ Feingold
Bruce Braley, U.S. Representative from Iowa’s 1st District
Dick Clark, former U.S. Senator from Iowa
AFL-CIO, major labor union
John Lynch, Governor of New Hampshire

Kathleen Sebelius
Ben Nelson, U.S. Senator from Nebraska
Claire McCaskill, Governor of Missouri
Janet Napolitano, Governor of Arizona

Brian Schweitzer
Bernie Sanders, U.S. Senator from Vermont (Independent)
Tom Vilsack, former Governor of Iowa
Jeanne Shaheen, former Governor of New Hampshire
John Conyers, U.S. Representative from Michigan’s 14th District

Joe Lieberman
None

Mike Gravel
None

Republicans

Ron Paul
Walter B. Jones, U.S. Representative from North Carolina’s 3rd District
Gary Johnson, former Governor of New Mexico
George Allen, U.S. Senator from Virginia
Chuck Grassley, U.S. Senator for Iowa
Adam Putnam, U.S. Representative from Florida’s 12th District
Arnold Schwarzenegger, Governor of California
Mike Pence, U.S. Representative from Indiana’s 6th District
Tom Latham, U.S. Representative from Iowa’s 4th District
Steve King, U.S. Representative from Iowa’s 5th District
Chuck Norris, actor
Kid Rock, musician
Marco Rubio, Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives
Newt Gingrich, former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives
Nancy Reagan, former First Lady of the United States
Terry Branstad, former Governor of Iowa
Pat Buchanan, former White House Communications Director
Mark Sanford, Governor of South Carolina
Clint Eastwood, actor

Ernie Fletcher
Lindsey Graham, U.S. Senator for South Carolina
Jeff Lamberti, U.S. Representative for Iowa’s 3rd District
National Right to Life
John McCain, U.S. Senator from Arizona
John Sununu, U.S. Senator from New Hampshire
Jeb Bush, former Governor of Florida
George W. Bush, former Governor of Texas and 2000 presidential nominee
Jim Nussle, Governor of Iowa
Club for Growth

Bobby Jindal
Jim DeMint, U.S. Senator from South Carolina
Pete Hoekstra, U.S. Representative from Michigan's 2nd District
Charlie Crist, Governor of Florida
Barbara Cubin, U.S. Representative from Wyoming's at-large District

Melissa Hart
None

George Pataki
Charlie Bass, U.S. Representative for New Hampshire’s 2nd District
Jim Leach, U.S. Representative for Iowa’s 2nd District

Mitt Romney
None

Michael Bloomberg
Tom Corbett, Attorney General of Pennsylvania

Colin Powell
Susan Collins, U.S. Senator from Maine

Independents

Donald Trump
Jeff Sessions, U.S. Senator from Alabama (Republican)
Tim Allen, actor
United States Constitution Party
Paul E. Vallely, retired U.S. major general
Jimmy Duncan, U.S. Representative from Tennessee's 2nd District

Debate results and initial credits will be up later today, ahead of the second debates.

Candidates received all reserved endorsements they could afford; if you would prefer to save up for a bigger reserved endorsement that you mentioned earlier, please let me know. The following candidates have whole credits they can still use to get endorsements now:

Joe Liebeman: FREE + 2
Melissa Hart: FREE + 2
Mitt Romney: FREE + 2
Mike Gravel: FREE
Ron Paul: 5
Bobby Jindal: 3
Kathleen Sebelius: 1
Ernie Fletcher: 1
George Pataki: 1
Brian Schweitzer: 1
Barbara Lee: 1

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AP RELEASES POLLS ON WHO WON FIRST PRESIDENTIAL DEBATES

Following NBC News's first presidential debates for both parties, as well as its townhall for independent candidate Donald Trump, the Associated Press took a poll to ascertain who was found to have done the best overall; here are the results:

AMONG INDEPENDENTS:
Representative Ron Paul - 26.4%
Mr. Donald Trump - 22.6%
Senator Russ Feingold - 17.1%
Governor Bobby Jindal - 13.2%
Governor Brian Schweitzer - 10.6%
Governor Ernie Fletcher - 7.8%
Others - 2.3%

AMONG DEMOCRATS (DEMOCRATS ONLY):
Senator Russ Feingold - 31.4%
Governor Kathleen Sebelius - 28.6%
Governor Brian Schweitzer - 23.5%
Representative Barbara Lee - 9.9%
Senator Hillary Clinton - 6.6%

AMONG REPUBLICANS (REPUBLICANS ONLY):
Representative Ron Paul - 33.6%
Governor Bobby Jindal - 32.7%
Governor Ernie Fletcher - 20.5%
Representative Melissa Hart - 13.2%

These polls come as something of a surprise, as, prior to Senator Allen's endorsement of Representative Paul, none of the debate winners or runners-up were considered frontrunners in this race. Will that change now? Only time will tell.

[Cabbage]

SECOND DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE

All Images from Wikimedia Commons

Good evening and welcome to the second presidential debate of the 2008 election. I'm Wolf Blitzer, coming to you from Paris Las Vegas Hotel and Casino in beautiful Las Vegas, Nevada. Tonight, I'll be serving as your moderator for the Democratic presidential candidates. Later on, we'll have the Republican candidates hosted by specially returning anchor Bernard Shaw.

For the last few weeks, we've asked the audience to send in questions that you would like to be asked to our presidential candidates, and the audience has delivered. Tonight's rules are simple. Each candidate will have a few moments for opening remarks. Questions will be posed by myself, with each candidate getting a specific one. Afterwards, candidates will be asked for closing statements and rebuttals, if they so wish.

Responses will be judged based on clarity, length, and of course response from you, the voters. Let's get started and one at a time introduce the Democratic candidates for President of the United States...

New York Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton...

Wisconsin Senator Russ Feingold...

Former Alaska Senator Mike Gravel...

Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer...

California Congresswoman Barbara Lee...

Vice President Joe Lieberman...

and finally, Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius

Questions for Specific Candidates

For Senator Clinton: You were recently endorsed by Oprah Winfrey, one of the most prominent African-American celebrities in history. What do you think this says about your appeal to minority voters, especially given the fact that your most significant challenger, Congresswoman Lee, is a woman of color?

For Senator Feingold: You've been endorsed by the AFL-CIO, one of the most prominent labor unions in the country. What do you believe this says about your appeal to working class voters?

For Senator Gravel: You’ve been out of the Senate for nearly three decades now. How do you intend to stand out in a field of far more recent politicians?

For Governor Schweitzer: Senator Feingold has claimed he's the only candidate who is a DC outsider unbeholden to special interests. As a governor running as the "People's Democrat," how do you respond to these claims?

For Congresswoman Lee: You have called for a massive overhaul of the current prison system in America, including a ban on private prisons. How would we pay for prisons that would shift back under government control?

To Vice President Lieberman: Some on the left have claimed that you aren’t the right nominee for a party that “wants to move forward.” How do you respond to these attacks?

For Governor Sebelius: You have called for the auditing of government spending if you are elected President. How do you intend to ensure such audits are not themselves corrupted by Washington's influence?

Answers are due June 27. Good luck!

[Cabbage]

SECOND REPUBLICAN PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE

All Images from Wikimedia Commons

Good evening and welcome to the second GOP presidential debate. I'm Bernard Shaw, coming to you from Eckerd College in beautiful St. Petersburg, Florida. Tonight, I'll be serving as your moderator for the Republican presidential candidates. Earlier, my colleague Wolf Blitzer was live from Las Vegas, Nevada, with the Democratic candidates for president.

For the last few weeks, we've asked the audience to send in questions that you would like to be asked to our presidential candidates, and the audience has delivered. Tonight's rules are simple. Each candidate will have a few moments for opening remarks. Questions will be posed by myself, with each candidate getting a specific one. Afterwards, candidates will be asked for closing statements and rebuttals, if they so wish.

Responses will be judged based on clarity, length, and of course response from you, the voters. Let's get started and one at a time introduce the Republican candidates for President of the United States...

New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg...

Kentucky Governor Ernie Fletcher...

Pennsylvania Congresswoman Melissa Hart...

Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal...

New York Governor George Pataki...

Texas Congressman Ron Paul...

Former Defense Secretary Colin Powell...

and lastly, former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney...

Questions for Specific Candidates

For Mayor Bloomberg: If elected, you would be the richest President in history. How do you intend to convince the average American that you understand their plight?

For Governor Fletcher: Some have begun to call you the candidate of "hope and change" for Republicans. Why do you believe this is?

For Congresswoman Hart: You have often brought up your bipartisan support in your electoral victories. What do you believe creates this appeal you have with Democrats, and how do you intend to capitalize on it if you are the nominee?

For Governor Jindal: You’ve stated that you will "bring back" jobs that President Gore has destroyed. Which jobs are these, and how would you bring them back?

For Governor Pataki: You have made regular reference to your tax cuts in New York as proof of your conservative chops; how would you reform the tax code as President?

For Congressman Paul: Some have voiced concern at the possibility that some of your policies, such as the legalization of marijuana, will throw social conservatives to Donald Trump and elect the Democrats to a fifth consecutive term. How do you respond to these attacks?

To Secretary Powell: Many Republicans have complained about your preaching Republican Party unity after serving six years under a Democratic administration. How do you respond to these people who claim you’re being an opportunist?

To Governor Romney: Despite entering the race in a reasonable position, you have since slumped to the lower single digits. What do you believe is the cause of this, and how do you intend to right it?

Responses are due June 27. Good luck!

[Cabbage]

Election Update 2008
with your host, Tom Brokaw

Brokaw: Good evening. I'm Tom Brokaw, and welcome to tonight's edition of Election Update 2008.

Brokaw: And tonight is marked by the continuation of the meteoric rise of Texas Congressman Ron Paul following a breakout debate performance.

Brokaw: And now, unfortunately, Congresswoman Lee could not be with us tonight, so there is no interview tonight.

Brokaw: And that will be all for tonight. Tune in Wednesday when we will interview former Defense Secretary Colin Powell.

Brokaw: Until then, I'm Tom Brokaw, and this has been your Election Update.

[Cabbage]

Election Update 2008
with your host, Tom Brokaw

Brokaw: Good evening. I'm Tom Brokaw, and welcome to tonight's edition of Election Update 2008.

Brokaw: And tonight is marked by the endorsement of Texas Congressman Ron Paul by several major figures in the Republican Party.

Brokaw: And now, unfortunately, former Secretary Powell could not be with us tonight, so there is no interview tonight.

Brokaw: And that will be all for tonight. Tune in Friday when we will interview Texas Congressman and newly minted Republican frontrunner Ron Paul.

Brokaw: Until then, I'm Tom Brokaw, and this has been your Election Update.

[Cabbage]

PHASE II, TURN II: DECEMBER 2007

And so we come to the final month of 2007, a critical stage in the campaign. The Democrats now find themselves in a growing kerfuffle, as Senator Hillary Clinton and Congresswoman Barbara Lee may soon be joined by Senator Russ Feingold on top of the heap, as Feingold pushed to capitalize as much as possible on his debate win in November.

Among the Republicans, it still appears to be a two-way duel, but now Congressman Ron Paul has replaced Senator Allen as Governor Ernie Fletcher's main opponent, and has managed to carve out a sizable lead for himself in the intervening days since his debate win.

Meanwhile, Donald Trump, despite the media's best efforts to stop him, continues to rise in the eyes of many Americans. Many of those on the right turned off by Congressman Paul's self-identification as a libertarian are beginning to see Trump as a viable option next November, as well as some self-proclaimed "anti-establishment" figures on the left (albeit not ones associated with Lee or Feingold). As the Trump coalition grows, a new reality is beginning to set in for the two big parties: they're not alone this time.