Reporting for Duty: The Presidency of John Kerry and Onwards.

[Huey Long is a Republican]

Is it me or are a bunch of pictures deleted?

it's not just you.

[Atlas Has Shrugged]

It appears large swathes of the timeline has been deleted. I might have to delete this and restart it.

[Atlas Has Shrugged]

The Kerry Cabinet

Secretary of State.

Richard Holbrooke was one of the leading contenders for the role of Secretary of State from the get-go, due to his history as a Deputy Secretary of State and UN Ambassador during the Clinton administration. His nomination sailed through the Senate without any serious opposition on the Senate Armed Services Committee. Confirmed by the Senate on a roll call vote by a margin of 97-3, Holbrooke has already conducted three overseas trips just four months into the Kerry administration focusing on strengthening ties with the NATO partners in Iraq, combating climate change, and isolating and sanctioning rogue regimes like that in Iraq or North Korea.

Secretary of the Treasury

[1]

Stuart Eizenstat had been a fixture of Democratic administrations for years, having served as an adviser to Jimmy Carter and in a number of posts at the Department of Commerce and Treasury under Bill Clinton. Eventually arising to the number two job at the Treasury Department in 1999, Eizenstat was selected for the position of Secretary of the Treasury after the President was forced to withdraw Jim Johnson's nomination following a controversy over his tenure at Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac related to exuberant bonuses.

Secretary of Defense

With America at war on fronts in Afghanistan and Iraq, Sam Nunn's selection as Secretary of Defense was probably the most well received nomination to the cabinet, and he quickly sailed through the Senate Armed Services Committee before being confirmed via a unanimous consent motion by his former colleagues. Nunn now faces the daunting challenge of being charged with first the stabilization and then withdrawal of American forces from Iraq. His nomination was confirmed by the Senate, which voted 95-0 in favor.

Attorney General

Eric Holder, the former Deputy Attorney General under President Clinton, was named to the Justice Department's top job after Jamie Gorelick withdrew her name from consideration. Gorelick, having been swept up in controversy due to her role in the Fannie Mae bonus controversy that also threatened to sweep up Treasury Secretary-designee Jim Johnson, would have been the second woman to head the Justice Department. It would be Eric Holder, who ironically succeeded Gorelick as Deputy Attorney General, who was to be nominated instead. Though he faced some opposition from Republicans on the Judiciary Committee who used controversial past statements to paint him as a radical, he ultimately made it through the Republican controlled Senate by 51-49, after Senators Collins (R-ME), Snowe (R-ME), and Bob Bennett (R-UT) defect in support of his nomination.

Secretary of the Interior

The department of the Interior traditionally has been headed by relatively non-controversial Secretaries. This was a tradition that Kerry continued when he nominated Tim Wirth, who represented Colorado in the Senate from 1987-1993. Afterwards he had served first as Chief Counsel of the State Department and then as a Deputy Secretary of State under Bill Clinton. Wirth’s experience both in the bureaucracy and the Senate made him an ideal choice for President Kerry. The new Secretary has indicated that combating global warming and climate change is his main priority. The Senate voted 60-40 in favor of his nomination, with a number of moderate Republicans led by Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) crossing the aisle to support him.

Secretary of Agriculture

As Governor of Iowa, a state in which agriculture is a dominant part of their economy, Tom Vilsack was the leading candidate to head up the Agriculture Department from the moment President Kerry was declared President-elect. A moderate Democrat, Vilsack is reasonably amendable to Republicans and has wide support among the National Union of Farmers and the American Farm Bureau Federation. He was confirmed by a motion of unanimous consent.

Secretary of Commerce

The first Asian American ever nominated to serve in the cabinet, former Washington Governor Gary Locke was a popular choice among the Democrats, and did not particularly stir the pot among the Republicans due to his more moderate stances and willingness to work with Republicans to spur economic growth. Locke, who has been touted as a future Presidential candidate, was expected to seek a fourth term in 2004, but ultimately did not do so. He was confirmed by the Senate by a vote of 80-20.

Secretary of Labor

Richard Gephardt had a lengthy career in Congress and had made two ganders at the Presidency in 1988 and later in 2004. Once a leading contender for the nomination, Gephardt’s campaign fell flat and he was forced to withdraw after a poor showing in Iowa. As Minority Leader in the House, Gephardt has forgone the chance to perhaps become Speaker in order to seek the grander prize, which has left a bitter taste in some Senators’ mouths. With strong support of the labor unions, Gephardt’s selection is a sign that the Kerry administration will take a decidedly pro-labor voices. His nomination was approved by the Senate by a 55-45 vote.

Secretary of Health and Human Services.

The selection of Howard Dean to serve as Secretary of Health and Human Services was the result of the 2004 campaign. Dean, who had bitterly fought both President Kerry and the Secretary of Labor Dick Gephardt, was the face of healthcare reform and the leader of the progressive wing of the party. The decision to appoint Dean in the wake of the failed Daschle nomination has resulted in the party unifying itself after a moderately divisive primary season. His confirmation hearings and subsequent confirmation by the Senate (by a 52-48 margin) were the most widely watched due to Senator Clinton's efforts to implement healthcare reform.

Secretary of Housing and Urban Development

Ron Sims, the King County Executive who replaced incoming Commerce Secretary Gary Locke in office, will be joining him as the second Washingtonian to earn a seat in the Kerry cabinet. Presiding over the largest city in Washington, his expertise on housing policy led to him being a frontrunner for the post. There is some speculation that he will only serve out the next two or three years in office before running for Governor against incumbent Republican Dino Rossi in 2008. He was confirmed by a motion of unanimous consent.

Secretary of Transportation

Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald was the first and only choice President Kerry had in mind for the position of Secretary of Transportation. Millender-McDonald, in her capacity as Ranking Member of the House Administration Committee and had previously chaired the Congressional Black Caucus. A centrist with a considerable amount of policy chops, Millender-McDonald maintained strong personal relations with many other members of Congress, regardless of party. This made her an attractive choice in Kerry’s eyes, and she was confirmed by a motion of unanimous consent.

Secretary of Energy

Ed Markey, a longtime Congressman who was one of the many “Watergate Babies” elected in 1974 and 1976, has been an ally of President Kerry for over three decades. Though he was initially considered a strong contender for President Kerry’s vacant Senate seat in the scheduled special election, his appointment to the cabinet dashed these efforts. A staunch believer in alternative energy, Markey’s selection is hailed by environmentalists and liberal activists. He was confirmed by the Senate 59-41.

Secretary of Education

A former teacher turned State Senator and later, Governor, Jeanne Shaheen was speculated to be a Vice Presidential contender for the 2000 and 2004 Democratic nominees. While she was passed over twice for the position, her experience in education made her an ideal choice for the President’s transition team. A competent and likable Governor, Shaheen had made an unsuccessful Senate bid 2002 and may only stay at the Education Department long enough to keep her profile relevant. Though many Republicans were skeptical of some of the administration's proposals, Shaheen was widely respected back in New Hampshire and in Washington, and ultimately was easily confirmed by a vote of 91-9.

Secretary of Veteran’s Affairs:

Max Cleland was the logical choice for President Kerry’s cabinet. The Vietnam veteran had given his legs for the country, and was willing to do so much more. His term in the Senate was eventful, but short lived. His attempt to hold the seat in 2002 resulted in one of the nastiest campaigns in American history, with his Republican rival Saxby Chambliss contrasting him to Saddam Hussein due to his more pragmatic and moderate stance on Iraq – even though Cleland himself voted for the Iraq Resolution that authorized the invasion. None the less, the rhetoric and tone of the 2002 Senate race was enough to endear Cleland to Democrats across the country. The Senate voted 100-0 in a roll call vote, with even Senator Chambliss endorsing his nomination.

Secretary of Homeland Security

The newest addition to the cabinet, the Department was created in the wake of 9/11 to coordinate anti-terrorist operations. Congresswoman Jane Harman (D-CA) was selected for this post specifically due to her counter-terrorism work in Congress as well as her expertise on foreign and defense policy issues. Her selection also mutes criticism from feminist activists who claimed Kerry was too overwhelmingly white and male. She was confirmed by a roll call vote of 77-23.
[1] Source: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/47/2018-us-nationalbookfestival-stuart-eizenstat.jpg/160px-2018-us-nationalbookfestival-stuart-eizenstat.jpg, Author: Fuzheado

[Atlas Has Shrugged]

I've recovered the story for the most part; I'll try and get what I can up tonight, because tomorrow I'll be in the car for seven hours driving home.

[erſatz-york]

“Bells ring as white smoke rises from the chimney over the Sistine Chapel, signaling the Papal Conclave has at last elected a successor . . .”

Where have I read these words before?

[Atlas Has Shrugged]

“Bells ring as white smoke rises from the chimney over the Sistine Chapel, signaling the Papal Conclave has at last elected a successor . . .”

Where have I read these words before?

I don’t know? Are you implying plagiarism?

[LoneStarDem]

Holy-! Dino Rossi actually won something!

I saw that LOL. I'm assuming the WA St Dems will pull a Mitch McConnell & make Rossi's life Hell during his tenure in the WA St Governor's Mansion.

[Atlas Has Shrugged]

Holy-! Dino Rossi actually won something!

I saw that LOL. I'm assuming the WA St Dems will pull a Mitch McConnell & make Rossi's life Hell during his tenure in the WA St Governor's Mansion.

I’m going to be honest: I bent the realism to give him at least one victory

[LoneStarDem]

Kerry in the White House means the Dems lose VA & NJ in 2005 & get spanked in the Governorships in 2006.

[Atlas Has Shrugged]

Sunday, May 1st, 2005: Congresswoman Ellen Tauscher (D-CA) introduces the Healthy Children and Families Act to the House of Representatives; the bill would dramatically expand funding for the Children's Health Insurance Plan (CHIP) to cover every American child until they reach the age of 18. Conservative members of Congress bulk at the proposal, which they fear will cause the budget deficit to balloon.  
Monday, May 2nd, 2005: As President Kerry prepares for his upcoming tour of Eastern Europe, where he hopes to lure the leaders of Georgia and Ukraine into taking their nations into NATO, much to the chagrin of Moscow.
Thursday, May 5th, 2005: British Prime Minister Tony Blair’s Labor government holds off the Conservatives and manages to retain government. President Kerry congratulates Blair on his victory, though their relationship isn't as warm as his predecessors. With a diminished majority, many in the Labor Party begin questioning just how long Tony Blair can remain in office.

Hillary

Friday, May 6th, 2005.

12:30 PM, Washington, DC.

The President's secretary buzzed into the Oval Office; "Senator Clinton is here, Mr. President". He could feel his eyes floating into the back of his head. Waiting outside with only the pretense of patience was the Senator, who was ushered in to the Oval Office. President Kerry rose to greet her, and then motioned for her to sit down. The Republicans were already on the offensive, noting that aside from a handful of executive orders, the first 100 days of the Kerry administration had been almost entirely fruitless. Kerry didn't mind the criticism - Rome wasn't built in a day, after all. But he did have big agenda in mind, and he wasn't going to let the Republicans stop him.

"Senator" Kerry addressed her, "I have to urge caution." Clinton had served with Kerry in the Senate, and they had always spoken to one another informally as John and Hillary. The icy formality of it all suggested to Hillary that Kerry was enjoying was the office, and was more invested in keeping it than using it. "Mr. President" replied Senator Clinton, "but millions of Americans don't have the time we have. We need to think bigger....bigger and better."

"How do you suppose we get this through Congress with the Republicans in control?" asked the President, "two thirds of them are opposed to the Children's Health Insurance Program existing."

"I've fought in the trenches for years on this issue" replied Senator Clinton, "and Elizabeth and I are willing to take this fight directly to the people." This time, the President resisted the urge to roll his eyes. His predecessor warned that the Clintons liked to meddle, but he never expected them to undermine a fellow Democrat. It was almost as if Hillary was trying to rush a doomed healthcare plan in order to help elect future President Giuliani or McCain in order to further her 2012 ambitions.

He was right.

But of course, Clinton would never admit this. Worse case scenario, the plan somehow passes and so she can claim legislative credit. Best case scenario would be the poisoning of the well between the Republican majority in Congress, crippling the administration. She had set a trap for him, and it was at this moment that the President needed to do.

"CHIP matches state funding for the healthcare costs needed to take care of sick children whose families lack the resources to seek proper treatment" noted Kerry, "what happens if we lose momentum to the Republicans, they take a bunch of gubernatorial victories, and then they proceed to gut their part of the job. How can we offer matching funds for people when the states are going to put any money to match about?"

"A mandate. Plain and simple."

"That's constitutionally dubious" warned Kerry. "I think we need to look at a lighter package, something that Senator Collins and Murkowski and Snowe can get on board with. You should consider throwing in a few tax rebates or allow families to deduct healthcare costs from the taxes. It'd be a good starter point."

"History is never made by the cautious, John."
Monday, May 9th, 2005: In one of the first major interviews of his Presidency, John Kerry sits down in the East Room of the White House for an extensive interview for NBC's "Meet the Press." Notable exerts include the President outlining the status of negotiations between the newly installed Iraqi government and Secretary of State Holbrooke about the future of the American and NATO presence in the country. He also makes news when he (some would say dismissively) calls Hillary Clinton's efforts to reform healthcare as being "an interesting legislative initiative," but does officially endorse it. The interview was taped Friday before the President traveled to Russia.

Vladimir Arutyunian

Tuesday, May 10th, 2005.

3:00 PM, Tbilisi, Georgia.

The President was perfectly content to be working on behalf of NATO, instead of dealing with the petty political squabbles in Washington. Georgia, which just a decade and a half before was once part of the Soviet Union. In the nearly fifteen years sine the fall of the USSR, the small republic had been plagued by consistent instability and regional separatism in Abkhazia and Ossetia. Worse yet was the constant meddling in Georgian affairs by the Kremlin, which made the climate in the Caucasus regions all the more worrisome to Washington.

Vladimir Arutyunian had lived a short but troubled life. An ethnic Armenian born in the Breznhev era of Soviet stagflation and decline, his father had died early on in his life and as a result, he and his mother were forced into a life dissolute life of poverty. He toiled as a day laborer and helped operate a vegetable stand at a local market with his mother in Tbilisi's poorest neighborhood. Since the fall of the USSR, their standard of living declined overtime.

Despite a lack of formal education or career prospects, Vladimir was none the less a very politically minded person. He had joined the Democratic Union for Revival, a political party opposed to incumbent Georgian leader Mikhail Saakashvili that was bankrolled by Moscow. He soon became disenchanted with the party, citing the fact that his party had not embraced his radical anti-American beliefs with the same vigor.

To Vladimir, a man was only as good as his work. And he was prepared to do something about it.

So, as thousands poured into Liberty Square in the capital of Tbilisi, so did he. He dressed himself normally and stuffed a Soviet era grenade into his pocket. He blended into the crowd, in which several Secret Service agents and Georgian law enforcement agents were also hidden in plain clothes. Through the internet, Vladimir had read up a great deal on their tactics. He knew if he pushed through the crowd towards the front too quickly that he could create suspicion. So instead, he waited patiently, slowly edging his way towards the stage until he was just close enough.

As Saakashvilli concluded his speech, President Kerry stepped to the lectern. For ten minutes, Victor listened calmly. He was not nervous in the slightest. He knew all about the concept of "propaganda of the deed." He wasn't a terrorist, he thought to himself, but rather a freedom fighter. By killing Kerry, he hoped to avenge the USSR and inspire revolution both in his native Georgia and in America alike.

The President's speech was nearing it's close. It was time to act.

He unwrapped the grenade, which was tightly bound by a cloth, and pulled the pin. He felt his heartbeat rapidly increase. With every ounce of strength he could muster, he hurled it into the sky, and watched it fly through the air in the same manner and watched it fly like a spectator follows the ball at a golf tournament. To his great disappointment, it landed much farther away than he had hoped for. He immediately turned to flee with seconds to spare.

The President was midway through a sentence when the grenade exploded, having landed at ~60 feet away or so. Immediately before he could even recognize and process what had happened, he was bundled off stage by Secret Service agents and rushed to an awaiting vehicle, where he was rushed to the relative security of the American embassy. The crowd all the while fell into panic; three people were killed when the grenade landed at their feet, and twenty five others were either injured by the shrapnel or trampled by the panicking mob. In one unfortunate case, it was both.

Across the Atlantic, Americans watched as Fox and CNN break into their normal programming to bring the news to the American people: once again, a President had escaped assassination. The incident shook Kerry, and he knew that next time he might not be so lucky.
Wednesday, May 12th, 2005: Georgian police, working in conjunction with the FBI and the Secret Service, track down and detain Victor Arutyunian, charging him on two counts of attempted murder in addition to charges related to those killed or injured in the crowd. "I am not a terrorist" Arutyunian claims upon his apprehension, "just a human being."
Thursday, May 12th, 2005: Controversial British MP George Galloway finds himself the subject of a criminal probe after it is alleged that he used a anti-cancer charity as a means to hide and launder money that had been funneled to him by the regime of Saddam Hussein in the years leading up to the 2003 invasion.
Friday, May 13th, 2005: An uprising in Uzbekistan breaks out against the dictatorship of Islam Karminov, after prisoners are rescued following a mysterious armed attack on the prison where they were being held. As news spread of the mass escape, anti-Karminov protesters take to the streets demanding the resignation of the President.
Saturday, May 14th, 2005: As protests spread to other cities in Uzbekistan, the Islamic Movement of Uzkeistan - an Al Qeada and Taliban affiliated Islamist group - goes on the offensive, launching several attacks on Uzbek soldiers stationed near the Afghan border. Secretary of State Holbrooke claims that the US is "monitoring the situation."
Sunday, May 15th, 2005: The Uzbek army opens fire on protesters in the main capital, killing an estimated 1,500. Many of the dead were killed after tanks rolled through the throngs of people, while others were killed by snipers as they fled the square. Though the country's tightly controlled media attempts to cover up the incident, claiming that only 100 people were killed in a "riot" that was organized by Islamists, the western media reports on the atrocities.
Monday, May 16th, 2005: In response to the massacre in Uzbekistan, the UN Security Council (UNSC) convenes in New York. UN Ambassador Richard Morningstar presses for sanctions to be implemented, and warns that the United States may intervene if the instability spills across the border in Afghanistan. Russia vetoes the resolution, and Putin warns against any American action within the country.
Tuesday, May 17th, 2005: Islam Karimov responds to the failed attempt to place sanctions on the country by ordering the United States to abandon its military facility at Karshi-Khanabad Air Base. The Department of Defense promises to cooperate with the Uzbek government. President Kerr speculates that Moscow played a role in this decision.
Monday, May 23rd, 2005: Hearings for the Healthy Children and Families Act are conducted by the House Ways and Means Committee, where ranking member Charlie Rangel (D-NY) strongly embraces the proposed bill. Other moderate Republicans on the Committee, such as Congresswoman Nancy Johnson (R-CT), are intrigued by the plan whereas the more fiscally conservative members of the committee like Congressmen Eric Cantor, JD Hayworth (R-AZ), and Paul Ryan (R-WI) all vocalizing their opposition.

[erſatz-york]

“Bells ring as white smoke rises from the chimney over the Sistine Chapel, signaling the Papal Conclave has at last elected a successor . . .”

Where have I read these words before?

I don’t know? Are you implying plagiarism?

No

[Continential]

Hillary or Obama 08!

[LoneStarDem]

The Kerry Cabinet

Secretary of State.

Richard Holbrooke was one of the leading contenders for the role of Secretary of State from the get-go, due to his history as a Deputy Secretary of State and UN Ambassador during the Clinton administration. His nomination sailed through the Senate without any serious opposition on the Senate Armed Services Committee. Confirmed by the Senate on a roll call vote by a margin of 97-3, Holbrooke has already conducted three overseas trips just four months into the Kerry administration focusing on strengthening ties with the NATO partners in Iraq, combating climate change, and isolating and sanctioning rogue regimes like that in Iraq or North Korea.

Secretary of the Treasury

Jim Johnson had years of experience as a corporate executive and Democratic Party bungler. His career began as an executive assistant to Vice President Walter Mondale, which bolstered his public policy chomps. He later served as the CEO of Fannie Mae, before retiring in 1998. Known as one of President Kerry’s most trusted supporters, having chaired both the Vice Presidential selection and the transition effort post-election. Kerry had enjoyed a long friendship with the former Fannie Mae CEO, though there were serious obstacles heading into the confirmation process. Upon his nomination, news dropped that had awarded himself large bonuses worth millions of dollars. Republicans on the Senate Finance Committee, chaired by Chuck Grassley (R-IA) was viciously opposed to Johnson’s nomination, but ultimately his nomination was decided in a roll-call vote of 54-46.

Secretary of Defense

With America at war on fronts in Afghanistan and Iraq, Sam Nunn's selection as Secretary of Defense was probably the most well received nomination to the cabinet, and he quickly sailed through the Senate Armed Services Committee before being confirmed via a unanimous consent motion by his former colleagues. Nunn now faces the daunting challenge of being charged with first the stabilization and then withdrawal of American forces from Iraq. His nomination was confirmed by the Senate, which voted 95-0 in favor.

Attorney General

Eric Holder, the former Deputy Attorney General under President Clinton, was named to the Justice Department's top job after Jamie Gorelick withdrew her name from consideration. Gorelick, having been swept up in controversy due to her role in the Fannie Mae bonus controversy that also threatened to sweep up Treasury Secretary-designee Jim Johnson. Eric Holder, who ironically succeeded Gorelick as Deputy Attorney General, was instead nominated. Though he faced some opposition from Republicans on the Judiciary Committee who used controversial past statements to paint him as a radical, he ultimately made it through the Republican controlled Senate by 51-49, after Senators Collins (R-ME), Snowe (R-ME), and Bob Bennett (R-UT) defect in support of his nomination.

Secretary of the Interior

The department of the Interior traditionally has been headed by relatively non-controversial Secretaries. This was a tradition that Kerry continued when he nominated Tim Wirth, who represented Colorado in the Senate from 1987-1993. Afterwards he had served first as Chief Counsel of the State Department and then as a Deputy Secretary of State under Bill Clinton. Wirth’s experience both in the bureaucracy and the Senate made him an ideal choice for President Kerry. The new Secretary has indicated that combating global warming and climate change is his main priority. The Senate voted 60-40 in favor of his nomination, with a number of moderate Republicans led by Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) crossing the aisle to support him.

Secretary of Agriculture

As Governor of Iowa, a state in which agriculture is a dominant part of their economy, Tom Vilsack was the leading candidate to head up the Agriculture Department from the moment President Kerry was declared President-elect. A moderate Democrat, Vilsack is reasonably amendable to Republicans and has wide support among the National Union of Farmers and the American Farm Bureau Federation. He was confirmed by a motion of unanimous consent.

Secretary of Commerce

The first Asian American ever nominated to serve in the cabinet, former Washington Governor Gary Locke was a popular choice among the Democrats, and did not particularly stir the pot among the Republicans due to his more moderate stances and willingness to work with Republicans to spur economic growth. Locke, who has been touted as a future Presidential candidate, was expected to seek a fourth term in 2004, but ultimately did not do so. He was confirmed by the Senate by a vote of 80-20.

Secretary of Labor

Richard Gephardt had a lengthy career in Congress and had made two ganders at the Presidency in 1988 and later in 2004. Once a leading contender for the nomination, Gephardt’s campaign fell flat and he was forced to withdraw after a poor showing in Iowa. As Minority Leader in the House, Gephardt has forgone the chance to perhaps become Speaker in order to seek the grander prize, which has left a bitter taste in some Senators’ mouths. With strong support of the labor unions, Gephardt’s selection is a sign that the Kerry administration will take a decidedly pro-labor voices. His nomination was approved by the Senate by a 55-45 vote.

Secretary of Health and Human Services.

The selection of Howard Dean to serve as Secretary of Health and Human Services was the result of the 2004 campaign. Dean, who had bitterly fought both President Kerry and the Secretary of Labor Dick Gephardt, was the face of healthcare reform and the leader of the progressive wing of the party. The decision to appoint Dean in the wake of the failed Daschle nomination has resulted in the party unifying itself after a moderately divisive primary season. His confirmation hearings and subsequent confirmation by the Senate (by a 52-48 margin) were the most widely watched due to Senator Clinton's efforts to implement healthcare reform.

Secretary of Housing and Urban Development

Ron Sims, the King County Executive who replaced incoming Commerce Secretary Gary Locke in office, will be joining him as the second Washingtonian to earn a seat in the Kerry cabinet. Presiding over the largest city in Washington, his expertise on housing policy led to him being a frontrunner for the post. There is some speculation that he will only serve out the next two or three years in office before running for Governor against incumbent Republican Dino Rossi in 2008. He was confirmed by a motion of unanimous consent.

Secretary of Transportation

Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald was the first and only choice President Kerry had in mind for the position of Secretary of Transportation. Millender-McDonald, in her capacity as Ranking Member of the House Administration Committee and had previously chaired the Congressional Black Caucus. A centrist with a considerable amount of policy chops, Millender-McDonald maintained strong personal relations with many other members of Congress, regardless of party. This made her an attractive choice in Kerry’s eyes, and she was confirmed by a motion of unanimous consent.

Secretary of Energy

Ed Markey, a longtime Congressman who was one of the many “Watergate Babies” elected in 1974 and 1976, has been an ally of President Kerry for over three decades. Though he was initially considered a strong contender for President Kerry’s vacant Senate seat in the scheduled special election, his appointment to the cabinet dashed these efforts. A staunch believer in alternative energy, Markey’s selection is hailed by environmentalists and liberal activists. He was confirmed by the Senate 59-41.

Secretary of Education

A former teacher turned State Senator and later, Governor, Jeanne Shaheen was speculated to be a Vice Presidential contender for the 2000 and 2004 Democratic nominees. While she was passed over twice for the position, her experience in education made her an ideal choice for the President’s transition team. A competent and likable Governor, Shaheen had made an unsuccessful Senate bid 2002 and may only stay at the Education Department long enough to keep her profile relevant. Though many Republicans were skeptical of some of the administration's proposals, Shaheen was widely respected back in New Hampshire and in Washington, and ultimately was easily confirmed by a vote of 91-9.

Secretary of Veteran’s Affairs:

Max Cleland was the logical choice for President Kerry’s cabinet. The Vietnam veteran had given his legs for the country, and was willing to do so much more. His term in the Senate was eventful, but short lived. His attempt to hold the seat in 2002 resulted in one of the nastiest campaigns in American history, with his Republican rival Saxby Chambliss contrasting him to Saddam Hussein due to his more pragmatic and moderate stance on Iraq – even though Cleland himself voted for the Iraq Resolution that authorized the invasion. None the less, the rhetoric and tone of the 2002 Senate race was enough to endear Cleland to Democrats across the country. The Senate voted 100-0 in a roll call vote, with even Senator Chambliss endorsing his nomination.

Secretary of Homeland Security

The newest addition to the cabinet, the Department was created in the wake of 9/11 to coordinate anti-terrorist operations. Congresswoman Jane Harman (D-CA) was selected for this post specifically due to her counter-terrorism work in Congress as well as her expertise on foreign and defense policy issues. Her selection also mutes criticism from feminist activists who claimed Kerry was too overwhelmingly white and male. She was confirmed by a roll call vote of 77-23.

I believe Mineta was the first Asian American to serve in Presidential Cabinet serving under Clinton & Bush, Jr.,

Plus: When did Locke get elected WA St Governor ? I noticed you mentioned "4th term" ? 1992 ?

[Atlas Has Shrugged]

Thanks for pointing out those errors! Locke was elected in 1996, which mean he'd be seeking a third rather than fourth term. Totally forgot Norman Mineta though. I'll correct both. I'm going to try and get a update up tonight covering the White House staff.

[Atlas Has Shrugged]

The White House Staff

Chief of Staff.

Many claim that Mary Beth Cahill is the most powerful woman in Washington, and it very well could be true. Aged 51, she had three decades of activism under her belt, which made her a seasoned veteran of political campaigns. Her ties run deep in Massachusetts, where her career flourished under the patronage of Senator Ted Kennedy. After leading President Kerry's campaign to victory, she found herself in a game of political cat and mouse with Alexis Herman for the role of Chief of Staff. Kerry ultimately chose his fellow Massachusetts residence due to Herman's ties with the Clintons, whom he was trying to distance himself from.  

Deputy Chief of Staff.

Bob Shrum was a longtime veteran of Democratic campaigns, having started under McGovern in '72 after graduating from Georgetown and later Harvard. His clients as a political consultant included Ted Kennedy in 1980, as well as Mayor Dinkins in New York in 1989 and Congressman (and later Labor Secretary) Dick Gephardt, as well as a wide array of Senators from Chris Dodd to Bernie Sanders. Whereas Cahill is largely charged with the day to day operations of the White House and the implementation of policy, Shrum is tasked with the political side of things, working with the DNC and the Democratic minority in Congress.

Communications Director

In the darkest days of the Lewinsky scandal, it was Stephanie Cutter - a former aide to HUD Secretary Cuomo - who became the unexpected hero of the saga, due to her adept handling of the scandal that nearly brought Bill Clinton down. During the campaign, she became the point-woman of the Kerry-Edwards team, regularly delivering the talking points on national TV with vigor. In the White House, she quickly made it her goal to keep the broad Democratic coalition together ahead of the 2006 midterms.

Press Secretary

One of the fresher faces brought into the Kerry administration was Dag Vega, who had been the Deputy Press Secretary during the campaign and was in charge of managing the candidates numerous television appearances. With deep ties to the media, Vega is banking on fostering a productive relationship with the White House Press Corps in order to maximize the President's ability to connect to the masses.

Senior Advisers

Perhaps the truly most powerful member of the administration was none other than President Kerry's brother, Cameron Kerry, who was deeply involved in the campaign and had the President's complete confidence. Taking the title as "Senior Adviser" to the President, Kerry is forbidden from taking a salary due to nepotism laws. None the less, he holds considerable sway over the President.

Since 1998, David McKean has served as Kerry's top adviser, and has maintained longstanding ties to the Kennedy family was well. Like Cameron Kerry, McKean lacks an exact role or title, but remains one of the President's most ardent supporters as well as one of the administrations top political guru.

[Atlas Has Shrugged]

Wednesday, June 1st, 2005: The Healthy Children and Families Act clears the Ways and Means Committee 23-19; all the Democrats plus five Republicans (Nancy Johnson of CT, Jim Ramstad of MN, Phil English of PA, Jerry Weller of IL, and surprisingly, David Camp of MI) vote in favor of the bill. It now advances to the House floor for wider debate.
Friday, June 3rd, 2005: Another controversy surrounding the prison at Guantanamo Bay, this time involving the desecration of the Qurans. President Kerry begins weighing a plan to permanently close the facility, fearing that it has become a propaganda tool for Islamist insurgents in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Monday, June 6th, 2005: As Republican opposition to the Healthy Children and Families Act grows, Americans for Prosperity and FreedomWorks announce a planned march on DC on July 4th to protest what they claim is a "government takeover" of the various state's healthcare policies.
Tuesday, June 7th, 2005: A libertarian rally featuring Congressman Ron Paul (R-TX) and former Libertarian Presidential candidate Michael Badnarik against the proposed Healthy Children and Families Act gains international attention after several doctors throw medical equipment such as scalpels into the port of Galveston, TX. They were acting in protest of the medical device tax which would fund the Medicaid expansion implemented by the Health Children and Families Act, and the event is contemptuously dubbed "the Galveston Tea Party" by HBO's Bill Mahrer. The name sticks.

Primaries in New Jersey are held ahead of the off-year gubernatorial election. On the Democratic side, Senator Jon Corzine is nominated without opposition, while former US Attorney Chris Christie only narrowly defeats Bogota Mayor Steve Lonegan 52-48% in the Republican primary.
Wednesday, June 8th, 2005: Rumors spread across Zimbabwe claiming that authoritarian President Robert Mugabe is dead following a hard attack. So prevalent are the rumors online that the country briefly shuts down internet access before Mugabe is forced to make a public appearance to dispel these reports before any unrest can ferment.
Friday, June 10th, 2005: In an hour long interview on CNN's Larry King Live, Senator Hillary Clinton (D-NY) defends the administration's efforts to expand the Children's Health Insurance Plan. She encourages viewers to flood the phones on capitol hill in the coming weeks to show support for the plan. When asked by King whether or not she thought Kerry was too politically timid, Clinton answers only that it is "up to the President."
Saturday, June 11th, 2005: The G8 announces that it will cancel the debt of the world's eighteen poorest countries in the hopes of boosting economic growth in countries like Haiti, the Congo, the Central African Republic, and Somalia.
Monday, June 13th, 2005: Pop superstar Michael Jackson is acquitted on all charges of child sexual abuse; Jackson was accused of molesting several young boys.
Tuesday, June 14th, 2005: Primaries are held in Virginia; both Lt. Governor Tim Kaine and Attorney General Jerry Kilgore are both nominated by their respective parties for Governor.

Theresa

Wednesday, June 15th, 2005.

7:25 AM, Washington, DC.

Theresa Kerry was a relatively popular, if slightly withdrawn First Lady. This was by design; a direct and outspoken woman, Theresa was sometimes prone to getting carried away. During the campaign, she had criticized Laura Bush for not having "a real job" in her lifetime (Bush had been a teacher and librarian), which caused severe and long lasting damage to her reputation. The irony of the story was that Bush was not at all offended, and the incident led to a mutually sincere friendship.

Theresa had lived her life in Washington, but her story was much more interesting than most political wives. She had been born in Portuguese East Africa, now known as Mozambique and married Heinz heir John Heinz, who later went on to serve in the Senate. Before her marriage, she worked as an interpreter at the UN. Being moderate Republicans, the two devoted to themselves to a number of causes until his untimely death in a plane crash. His estate left her with a fortune that ma have been worth upwards to $1.4 billion, which she used liberally to fund her second husband's political efforts over the years.

Still, Heinz-Kerry, despite her lengthy involvement on the Washington scene, simply couldn't shake off the "rich bitch" image. Though she was not as widely loathed among Republicans like Hillary Clinton, Heinz-Kerry's Bush gaffe hung over her head into her first year as First Lady. During the campaign, many aides warned that her no-nonsense approach to politics might cost the Senator votes. It was simply who she was. It couldn't be changed. But it could be weaponized in reverse, and by the six month mark of the inauguration, she decided it was time to make the best of an increasingly bad situation.

So she went on tour. She spoke bluntly and truthfully at political events, including a rally in favor of the Clinton-Tauscher healthcare plan, endearing her to the American people after a rocky honeymoon. A focus group conducted by Frank Luntz during a braodcast of Hannity and Colmes of conservatives showed a surprising amount of understanding. "I like her more than Hillary" said one woman, "because she actually speaks her mind instead of just pretending too." Another agreed; "she's a strong woman."

It was set to be just another boring profile on yet another First Lady. A tour of the White House, a sampling of the fine china, and a quick visit to the kitchen before displaying the art in the Green Room, etc, etc. It was supposed to be no different from Laura Bush's work with the "Save Our History" program or Jackie Kennedy's televised White House tours. But Theresa had other ideas.

"It feels really....really guilty sometimes" she said to NBC's fawning Katie Couric, "because we live in the people's house, and many people don't live in a house at all." Pressed on healthcare, she didn't bat an eye. "If you're against the Tauscher plan" she claimed, "than you really need to rethink your definition of common sense." Addressing Senator Clinton's criticisms of the President's relative disengagement from the healthcare battle, she bitterly (and slyly) replies that the President "takes his time", and doesn't want "a half-baked spectacle."

In a not so distant part of town, a certain Illinois Senator watched the interview with his wife. "I'm glad I don't have to pick sides in this."
Thursday, June 16th, 2005: While touring a Naval shipyard in southeast Virginia, President Kerry tells reporters that he repealing and replacing the Bush tax cuts is "our next big project."
Friday, June 17th, 2005: An anonymous tip is delivered to Scotland Yard, warning of a plot by several Al Qaeda militants operating in a London cell are planning a series of attacks in the UK. This intel, verified by the CIA, falls on deaf ears in Britain.
Wednesday, June 22nd, 2005: A federal judge orders the deportation of ex-Nazi concentration camp guard John Demjunjuk. He immediately appeals the ruling.
Friday, June 24th, 2005: Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is elected President of Iran; the hard-line Mayor of Tehran is reportedly the favored candidate of the Ayatollah, and is fiercely anti-Israel.

[LoneStarDem]

Wednesday, June 1st, 2005: The Healthy Children and Families Act clears the 23-19; all the Democrats plus five Republicans (Nancy Johnson of CT, Jim Ramstad of MN, Phil English of PA, Jerry Weller of IL, and surprisingly, David Camp of MI) vote in favor of the bill. It now advances to the House floor for wider debate.
Friday, June 3rd, 2005: Another controversy surrounding the prison at Guantanamo Bay, this time involving the desecration of the Qurans. President Kerry begins weighing a plan to permanently close the facility, fearing that it has become a propaganda tool for Islamist insurgents in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Monday, June 6th, 2005: As Republican opposition to the Healthy Children and Families Act grows, Americans for Prosperity and FreedomWorks announce a planned march on DC on July 4th to protest what they claim is a "government takeover" of the various state's healthcare policies.
Tuesday, June 7th, 2005: A libertarian rally featuring Congressman Ron Paul (R-TX) and former Libertarian Presidential candidate Michael Badnarik against the proposed Healthy Children and Families Act gains international attention after several doctors throw medical equipment such as scalpels into the port of Galveston, TX. They were acting in protest of the medical device tax which would fund the Medicaid expansion implemented by the Health Children and Families Act, and the event is contemptuously dubbed "the Galveston Tea Party" by HBO's Bill Mahrer. The name sticks.

Primaries in New Jersey are held ahead of the off-year gubernatorial election. On the Democratic side, Senator Jon Corzine is nominated without opposition, while State Senator Tom Kean Jr. only narrowly defeats Bogota Mayor Steve Lonegan 52-48% in the Republican primary.
Wednesday, June 8th, 2005: Rumors spread across Zimbabwe claiming that authoritarian President Robert Mugabe is dead following a hard attack. So prevalent are the rumors online that the country briefly shuts down internet access before Mugabe is forced to make a public appearance to dispel these reports before any unrest can ferment.
Friday, June 10th, 2005: In an hour long interview on CNN's Larry King Live, Senator Hillary Clinton (D-NY) defends the administration's efforts to expand the Children's Health Insurance Plan. She encourages viewers to flood the phones on capitol hill in the coming weeks to show support for the plan. When asked by King whether or not she thought Kerry was too politically timid, Clinton answers only that it is "up to the President."
Saturday, June 11th, 2005: The G8 announces that it will cancel the debt of the world's eighteen poorest countries in the hopes of boosting economic growth in countries like Haiti, the Congo, the Central African Republic, and Somalia.
Monday, June 13th, 2005: Pop superstar Michael Jackson is acquitted on all charges of child sexual abuse; Jackson was accused of molesting several young boys.
Tuesday, June 14th, 2005: Primaries are held in Virginia; both Lt. Governor Tim Kaine and Attorney General Jerry Kilgore are both nominated by their respective parties for Governor.

Theresa

Wednesday, June 15th, 2005.

7:25 AM, Washington, DC.

Theresa Kerry was a relatively popular, if slightly withdrawn First Lady. This was by design; a direct and outspoken woman, Theresa was sometimes prone to getting carried away. During the campaign, she had criticized Laura Bush for not having "a real job" in her lifetime (Bush had been a teacher and librarian), which caused severe and long lasting damage to her reputation. The irony of the story was that Bush was not at all offended, and the incident led to a mutually sincere friendship.

Theresa had lived her life in Washington, but her story was much more interesting than most political wives. She had been born in Portuguese East Africa, now known as Mozambique and married Heinz heir John Heinz, who later went on to serve in the Senate. Before her marriage, she worked as an interpreter at the UN. Being moderate Republicans, the two devoted to themselves to a number of causes until his untimely death in a plane crash. His estate left her with a fortune that ma have been worth upwards to $1.4 billion, which she used liberally to fund her second husband's political efforts over the years.

Still, Heinz-Kerry, despite her lengthy involvement on the Washington scene, simply couldn't shake off the "rich bitch" image. Though she was not as widely loathed among Republicans like Hillary Clinton, Heinz-Kerry's Bush gaffe hung over her head into her first year as First Lady. During the campaign, many aides warned that her no-nonsense approach to politics might cost the Senator votes. It was simply who she was. It couldn't be changed. But it could be weaponized in reverse, and by the six month mark of the inauguration, she decided it was time to make the best of an increasingly bad situation.

So she went on tour. She spoke bluntly and truthfully at political events, including a rally in favor of the Clinton-Tauscher healthcare plan, endearing her to the American people after a rocky honeymoon. A focus group conducted by Frank Luntz during a braodcast of Hannity and Colmes of conservatives showed a surprising amount of understanding. "I like her more than Hillary" said one woman, "because she actually speaks her mind instead of just pretending too." Another agreed; "she's a strong woman."

It was set to be just another boring profile on yet another First Lady. A tour of the White House, a sampling of the fine china, and a quick visit to the kitchen before displaying the art in the Green Room, etc, etc. It was supposed to be no different from Laura Bush's work with the "Save Our History" program or Jackie Kennedy's televised White House tours. But Theresa had other ideas.

"It feels really....really guilty sometimes" she said to NBC's fawning Katie Couric, "because we live in the people's house, and many people don't live in a house at all." Pressed on healthcare, she didn't bat an eye. "If you're against the Tauscher plan" she claimed, "than you really need to rethink your definition of common sense." Addressing Senator Clinton's criticisms of the President's relative disengagement from the healthcare battle, she bitterly (and slyly) replies that the President "takes his time", and doesn't want "a half-baked spectacle."

In a not so distant part of town, a certain Illinois Senator watched the interview with his wife. "I'm glad I don't have to pick sides in this."
Thursday, June 16th, 2005: While touring a Naval shipyard in southeast Virginia, President Kerry tells reporters that he repealing and replacing the Bush tax cuts is "our next big project."
Friday, June 17th, 2005: An anonymous tip is delivered to Scotland Yard, warning of a plot by several Al Qaeda militants operating in a London cell are planning a series of attacks in the UK. This intel, verified by the CIA, falls on deaf ears in Britain.
Wednesday, June 22nd, 2005: A federal judge orders the deportation of ex-Nazi concentration camp guard John Demjunjuk. He immediately appeals the ruling.
Friday, June 24th, 2005: Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is elected President of Iran; the hard-line Mayor of Tehran is reportedly the favored candidate of the Ayatollah, and is fiercely anti-Israel.

Let me guess. The Kerry's are going to pull a Nancy Reagan & calling the White House "a fire trap", move out & live in Boston during the remainder of Kerry's Presidency ?

Funny if it happened.

[Huey Long is a Republican]

Can Armstrong Williams be the VA Gov Nom for the Republicans or is it someone else?

[LoneStarDem]

I think Kilgore is the GOP nominee for VA Governor in 2005 (like he was in real life)... only to lose to LG Kaine in the GE.

[Rhenna]

Great work!

[Atlas Has Shrugged]

Update coming tonight/tomorrow.

[LoneStarDem]

Looking forward to seeing more because I take it the GOP ups the ante against weakling Kerry in the 2006 Midterms & beyond.

[Atlas Has Shrugged]

Friday, July 1st, 2005: Supreme Court Associate Justice Sandra Day O'Connor announces she will resign from the federal bench due to her husband's declining health. President Kerry, at a Rose Garden press conference, praises O'Connor's "barrier breaking role in history" and sets a timeline for the process of filling her soon to be vacant seat.
Saturday, July 2nd, 2005: Rumors circulate in Washington that the President will be making a major announcement about the situation and future of Iraq. Leaks from the White House
Sunday, July 3rd, 2005: The President meets privately in the Oval Office with Attorney General Holder to discuss the prospective replacements for Justice O'Conner. Meanwhile, on NBC's "Meet the Press", Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist promises "a fair and honest hearing" for any potential SCOTUS nominee.

Nunn

Sunday, July 3rd, 2005.

7:55 PM, The White House, Washington, DC.

It was an important night for Secretary Nunn; President Kerry until this point had eluded his critics in regards to the slow course of progress in Iraq, which was ever closer to experiencing full blown civil war as the numerous insurgent groups began to turn on each other and their supporters with as much fury as the occupying infidels. In fact, the growing crisis between Shia and Sunni Muslims had by this point become a practical proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran, with American troops caught dead center in the middle.

This was not, much to the surprise and chagrin of the Democratic base, not the speech they had been expected. Nobody wanted to send more troops to Iraq, but Secretary Nunn knew it had to be done. This was owed to the people of Iraq following the collapse of the regime of Saddam Hussein. It was a necessary measure meant to ensure prolonged peace and stability.

The Secretary lingered behind the press pool camera as President Kerry sat behind the Resolute Desk, the text of the speech appearing before him on the teleprompter. Secretary Holbrooke and National Security Adviser Susan Rice lingered in the backdrop. By this point into Kerry's term, support for the Iraq War was rapidly plummeting. Even a majority of Republicans had at the very least questioned the benefits of the conflict, if the contemporary polling was to be believed. But this mattered little to the Republican hawks in Congress, who insisted on a timeline for withdrawal and had insisted on "a surge" as recommended by the top military brass.

Secretary Holbrooke worked hard to sell the surge to the newly elected Democratic government in Baghdad, while the President had an even harder time selling the plan at home to congressional Democrats who expected a more hasty departure from Iraq. But as the summer dawned, Holbrooke had finally reached a deal. The rare Sunday night speech from the White House was penciled in at last minute in order to announce this deal.

The Holbrooke Plan, which the President began to detail in his speech within moments of going live, was going to be controversial. But it'd be worthwhile, and it'd pacify the Republicans who were vehemently opposed to any expansion of the federal government in the healthcare sector. Five entire brigades would be deployed to the hotspots in Baghdad and Al-Anbar province, where Al Qaeda and ex Baathists co-mingled in opposition to both the Shia militias and the NATO occupiers.

"Five...four...three...two...one..." counted down the cameraman, "we're live." With a slight inhale, the President began his speech and went on to detail an elaborate plan to do a "clean sweep" of Iraq to rid the country of insurgents ahead of a final phased withdrawal, which would result in the last American troops leaving the country by early 2008.

As the President concluded his brief remarks, the camera clicked off as the cable news networks began their dissection of his comments. Liberals and Democratic commentators were flustered. So were the conservatives and Republicans. One thing was clear; there was to be no immediate change in the course of the war.
Tuesday, July 4th, 2005: Hundreds of thousands of Tea Party protesters march in Washington for one of the biggest rallies of the burgeoning movement; protesting both the course of the war in Iraq and the proposed healthcare reform being pushed by the Kerry administration, the demonstrations are the largest to take place in Washington in a generation.

The United Church of Christ votes to endorse same-sex marriage, making it the first large religious sector within Christianity to officially do so.
Thursday, July 7th, 2005: Al Qaeda strikes London; the London underground and bus systems are targeted by suicide bombers, killing 57 commuters during morning rush hour. In the aftermath of the bombings, Prime Minister Tony Blair announces that Scotland Yard has begun an immediate search for other members of a possible terrorist cell in London.
Tuesday, July 12th, 2005: Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) denies a report in Politico about his efforts to effect a putsch against incumbent Majority Leader Bill Frist, whose leadership has come under fire from the more conservative Republicans in the Senate.
Friday, July 15th, 2005: Despite a cancer diagnosis, Chief Justice William Rehnquist confirms he will not resign from the Supreme Court so long as his health permits him to serve.
Saturday, July 16th, 2005: The largest anti-Iraq protests yet are held across the country, with over 100,000 marchers participating in Washington, DC alone. Most impressive about the demonstrations was not about the crowd size but rather the fact that it was organized online by a number of small micro-parties such as the Greens and Socialist Workers Party and organizations like ANSWER and ACORN.
Sunday, July 17th, 2005: Anti-war Congressman Dennis Kucinich (D-OH) tells Tim Russert on NBC's Meet the Press that he is disappointed with the "reversal" on Iraq, claiming that "the only surge will be the casualty numbers among our troops and their civilians."
Monday, July 18th, 2005: Former British Prime Minister Edward Heath dies at age 89.
Tuesday, July 19th, 2005: A leaker in the White House suggests to the New York Times that the President's short list to replace Sandra Day O'Conner on the Supreme Court has been narrowed down to three women. They are Judge Sonia Sotomayor, Harvard Law Dean Elena Kagan, and Judge Diane Wood.
Friday, July 22nd, 2005: Canada legalizes same-sex marriage.

[LoneStarDem]

POTUS Kerry getting 1, maybe 2 appointments to SCOTUS.

This TL getting juicier.

[Continential]

Imagine a Senator voting for a "socialist" health care bill like the ACA today.