Eagle in Peril: A 2004 Election Game (Gameplay)

[Orwell]

Campaign Ad: Service

James Rassmann

John Kerry saved my life... I was thrown overboard, and John ordered his boat to turn around and pick me up, he reached out over the bow of his boat and picked me up out of the water. He deserved a helluva lot more than a Bronze Star. We were under fire, and he risked his own life to save mine. I can tell you that I wouldn't be here today without John Kerry.

John Kerry

I had already been wounded, and when Jim was thrown into the water we were under heavy fire from the NVA. He was trying to climb up the cargo net and he couldn't get up. So I got on my knees and lifted him over the bow. Jim was the real hero there.

James Rassman

John Kerry has been there, John Kerry has served, I know what I want in a President, and that is service. We lost brothers over there, and the men in Iraq and Afghanistan lost brothers there too. If you want someone who knows what sacrifice is like, you'll vote for John Kerry. He sacrificed his body to save mine.

We need a President who is calm under fire, with the September 11th attacks, and war in Iraq we need someone who understands what our soldiers are going through in the Middle East, and I'm that man. Im John Kerry and I approve this message...

all images from wikimedia commons

[KaiserDave]

Turn II: September 1st 2003-October 31st 2003




President Cheney Asks Congress for $85 billion for Wars in Iraq, Afghanistan
"Our war against international terror, must, and will, be won" says new President. Story continued...




Hurricane Isabel Strikes North Carolina
16 dead, $5.5 billion in property damage. Story Continued....




Drama in Jackson: Musgrove snubs Lieberman
Democratic presidential candidate, Connecticut Senator, and former Vice Presidential nominee Joe Lieberman was refused a meeting with Mississippi's Democratic Governor Ronnie Musgrove after Senator Lieberman said he'd deprive the state of federal funds unless they changed their Confederate inspired flag. Governor Musgrove supported changing the flag in a 2001 referendum, but a statement from his office indicated great offense at such a threat, and many observers point to Musgrove's incoming re-election fight as another reason for his actions. Story Continued....




Who is Mike Huckabee? Arkansas Governor surging in the polls
All the polls say the same thing. Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, previously relatively unknown, is catching fire with conservatives. In a field scattered with moderates and representatives of the old eastern establishment, Huckabee is making waves with heartland conservatives. Story Continued....




2003 Gubernatorial Races
Elections approach for governor's mansions in Louisiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, and California. In Louisiana, polls show a dead heat. In Mississippi, Governor Musgrove lags behind by 5 points, but is benefitting from recent publicity involving Senator Lieberman. In Kentucky, Republican Ernie Fletcher looks poised to recapture the governor's mansion for the GOP for first time since reconstruction. In California, a recall looks likely to seat superstar Arnold Schwarzenegger as Governor. Story Continued....




CNN/USA Today Polls the Presidential Nominations for 2004

Poll taken from September 2nd to September 6th

Republican Primary Poll

Sample Size: 1,034
MoE: +/- 3.7%
Undecided/Unfamiliar/Other-6%
Rudy Giuliani-22%
Jeb Bush-16%
Colin Powell-14%
John McCain-12%
Mike Huckabee-11%
Tom Ridge-8%
George Pataki-5%
Ron Paul-3%
Pat Robertson-2%

Democratic Primary Poll

Poll taken from September 3rd to September 7th

Sample Size: 1,094
MoE: +/- 3.8%
Undecided/Unfamiliar/Other-9%
Howard Dean-21%
John Kerry-16%
Joe Lieberman-15%
Wesley Clark-13%
Joe Biden-9%
Carol Moseley Braun-6%
Dick Gephardt-6%
Dennis Kucinich-5%
Gary Locke-3%

First Early State Polls

Poll taken from September 1st to September 4th

Republican Primary Poll: Iowa

Sample Size: 479
MoE: +/- 4.0%
Undecided/Unfamiliar/Other- 15%
Jeb Bush-21%
Mike Huckabee-18%
Rudy Giuliani-12%
Pat Robertson-9%
Ron Paul-8%
John McCain-6%
Tom Ridge-5%
Colin Powell-5%
George Pataki-3%


Democratic Primary Poll: Iowa

Poll taken from September 2nd to September 5th

Sample Size: 431
MoE: +/- 4.2%
Undecided/Unfamiliar/Other- 10%
Howard Dean-18%
John Kerry-18%
Joe Biden-13%
Wesley Clark-12%
Dick Gephardt-10%
Joe Lieberman-9%
Dennis Kucinich-7%
Carol Moseley Braun-2%
Gary Locke-1%



Poll taken from September 3rd to September 8th

Republican Primary Poll: New Hampshire

Sample Size: 432
MoE: +/- 4.2%
Undecided/Unfamiliar/Other- 10%
Rudy Giuliani-20%
Colin Powell-17%
John McCain-15%
Tom Ridge-13%
Jeb Bush-10%
George Pataki-7%
Mike Huckabee-5%
Ron Paul-3%
Pat Robertson-0%


Democratic Primary Poll: New Hampshire

Poll taken from August 31st to September 3rd

Sample Size: 431
MoE: +/- 4.2%
Undecided/Unfamiliar/Other- 7%
Howard Dean-22%
John Kerry-17%
Joe Lieberman-16%
Wesley Clark-15%
Joe Biden-7%
Dennis Kucinich-5%
Dick Gephardt-4%
Gary Locke-4%
Carol Moseley Braun-2%

All Images Wikimedia Commons
Note: Remember early polls are just that, EARLY. Missing a turn DOES NOT doom you.

You have 2 weeks! There will be a debate this turn. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask either in the discussion thread or messaging me.

[KaiserDave]

Endorsements List

Republicans
Rudy Giuliani:
New York Congressman Peter King
Police Benevolent Association of the City of New York
New Jersey Congressman Frank LoBiondo
New York Congressman Jim Walsh
New York State Senator Joseph Bruno
New York Real Estate Developer Donald Trump
National Troopers Coalition
Manchester Alderman Frank Guinta
Publisher Steve Forbes
Actor Jon Voigt
California Congressman Mary Bono
Jeb Bush:
Former President George H. W. Bush
Former First Lady Barbara Bush
Former Vice President Dan Quayle
Florida Attorney General Charlie Crist
Florida Congressman Adam Putnam
Colin Powell:
Former Massachusetts Senator Edward Brooke
Maryland Lieutenant Governor Michael Steele
Former Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger
Former National Security Advisor Brent Scowcroft
Former Secretary of State George Schultz
Virginia Congressman Frank Wolf
Maryland Governor Bob Ehrlich
Former Washington Governor Daniel J. Evans
Washington Secretary of State Sam Reed
John McCain:
Retired Admiral Jerome L. Johnson
Retired Admiral Admiral George Kinnear
Arizona Congressman Jeff Flake
Arizona Congressman Rick Renzi
Arizona Congressman John Shadegg
Arizona Congressman Jim Kolbe
South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham
Indiana Senator Richard Lugar
Nebraska Senator Chuck Hagel
Tom Ridge:
Former Pennsylvania Governor Mark Schweiker
Pennsylvania Congressman Phil English
Former Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania Bill Scranton III
Pennsylvania Senator Arlen Specter
Utah Gubernatorial Candidate Jon Huntsman Jr.
Republicans for Choice
Republican Majority for Choice
New Jersey Governor Christine Todd Whitman
Mike Huckabee:
Arkansas Congressman John Boozman
Pro-Life Activist Janet L. Folger
Author James Dobson
Televangelist James Robison
Former Arkansas Senator Tim Hutchinson
Pastor Mathew Staver
Minister Donald Wildmon
Missouri Right-to-Life
Arkansas Right-to-Life
George Pataki:
Former Lieutenant Governor Betsy McCaughey
New York State Assemblyman John Faso
Secretary of State of New York Randy Daniels
Vermont Governor Jim Douglas
Vermont Lieutenant Governor Brian Dubie
New Hampshire State Senator Ted Gatsas
Former New York Senator Al D'Amato
Pat Robertson:
Televangelist Kenneth Copeland
Televangelist Jerry Falwell Sr.


Democrats
Joe Lieberman:
Connecticut Senator Chris Dodd
Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal
California Congressman Howard Berman
Howard Dean:
Vermont Senator Pat Leahy
Vermont Senator Jim Jeffords
Vermont Congressman Bernie Sanders
New Hampshire State House Assistant Majority Leader Dan Eaton
New Hampshire State Senate Majority Leader Joseph Foster
New Hampshire State Senator Susan Almy
Iowa State Senator Robert Dvorsky
John Kerry:
Massachusetts Congressman Stephen Lynch
Massachusetts Congressman Ed Markey
Massachusetts Attorney General Thomas Reilly
Former Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis
Iowa Secretary of State Chet Culver
Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller
Rhode Island Senator Jack Reed
Talk Show Host Howard Stern
Washington D.C. Councillor Jack Evans
Wesley Clark:
Former Senator George McGovern
Former UN Ambassador Andrew Young
Retired General Gregory S. Newbold
Arkansas Senator Blanche Lincoln
Joe Biden:
Delaware Senator Tom Carper
Iowa State House Speaker Pro Tempore Polly Bukta
Iowa State Representative Mary A. Gaskill
New Hampshire State Representative Robert Haley
New Hampshire State Representative Bill Hatch
Carol Moseley Braun:
Reverend Al Sharpton
National Organization for Women
EMILY's List
Gary Locke:
Washington Senator Maria Cantwell
Former Nebraska Senator Bob Kerrey
Dennis Kucinich:
Former Alaska Senator Mike Gravel
Musician Willie Nelson
Actress Susan Sarandon
Filmmaker Tim Robbins

If there is anything you believe to be missing, or things I should include that you should have to start, just tell me.

[RGM2609]

Governor Jeb Bush's September schedule

September 1st-14th - Launch the "Keeping America Safe" tour across Iowa, with rallies and town halls emphasizing the need to fight off terrorism and continuing late President Bush's legacy. Bush will express his support for President Cheney's efforts to win in Iraq and Afghanistan. He will also meet with Senator Chuck Grassley as well as with Representatives Jim Nussel, Jim Leach and Tom Latham to court their endorsements. A focus of this tour will be making Jeb Bush appear in touch with the voters of Iowa, with a focus on town halls in small communities, but there will also be rallies in urban centers such as Des Moines and Iowa City.

September 14th-21st - Go back to Florida for governor duties.

September 22nd-23rd - Meetings with family members, campaign staff

September 24th-25th - Meetings with Texas Senators Kay Bailey Hutchinson, John Cornyn (court endorsements)

September 26th-30th - Campaigning in Iowa, visits to local small businesses, building local ground game, courting the endorsements of Senator Chuck Grassley and aforementioned Iowa Representatives

[KaiserDave]

Debate Rules and Regulations

Welcome to the first debate of Eagle in Peril. Debates in this game will be important in delineating differences between candidates, and forcing you to take tough positions. It will give you a chance to attack your opponents, and show why you're the best candidate. This opens up potential endorsements and other sources of support. Debates will be judged on the cohesiveness of your answers (not, cohesiveness is not grammar, people don't always speak in good grammar, but I will expect your remarks to be readable obviously), and rhetorical skill. There will also be a randomized element for scoring. There will be an opening statement, two general questions, and a personalized question. You are also invited to post another written statement, rebutting the views of others or attacking other candidates. Answers should be of reasonable lengths. Not four sentences, and also not two paragraphs. Responses are due at the end of turn. I look forward to the joy this will bring!

Simi Valley Reagan Library Republican Debate

Chris Matthews: Welcome to the Reagan Library Republican Debate in the Simi Valley, California. I'm Chris Matthews of MSNBC, I'm joined by former Congressman Joe Scarborough. Today we're moderating the first Republican debate for President of the United States. Let's begin.

1. An Opening Statement (asked to include President Reagan somehow in your remarks)

2. Gentlemen. It has been a scary three years for most Americans. Terrorists attacked us on 9/11, shocking the nation and leading us into a global war on terrorism. Only a few months ago, the President of the United States suddenly died. Americans want to know more than anything, how will you keep them safe, and what makes you the candidate best prepared to do so?

3. We have around 150,000 soldiers stationed in Iraq. Combat with Ba'athist forces is ending, but an insurgency is developing, especially in the Sunni Triangle, where groups like Jamaat Ansar al-Sunna are thriving. What will you do to bring the situation in Iraq under control, and establish a functioning democracy? When can we expect our soldiers to return home if you are President?

4. (Please keep your answer to a few sentences). Do you believe in the theory of evolution?

Personalized Questions:
To Mayor Giuliani: You were Mayor of New York City during 9/11, and did much at that time during the crisis. How does this prepare you for the presidency?
To Governor Bush: What can you say to the audience tonight on the legacy of your father (who is here tonight) and brother, and what will you do as President to carry it out?
To Secretary Powell and Governor Ridge: The overwhelming majority of Republicans support restrictions on abortion. Both of you support abortion rights and oppose overturning Roe vs. Wade. Governor Ridge was just endorsed by many pro-choice Republican groups. How can you unite Republicans if you disagree on this pertinent issue?
To Senator McCain: You voted against the Bush tax cuts, which were highly popular among Republicans. Why did you oppose these tax cuts?
To Governor Huckabee: You've made a name for yourself as among the most pro-life candidates in the race. What is your thinking when it comes to the issue of abortion?
To Congressman Paul: You've made your name opposing military intervention. When would you support military intervention as President?
To Governor Pataki: What makes you more qualified to be President than other people on this stage?
To Reverend Robertson: You've said some interesting things and some would say even bigoted things on the campaign trail about Muslims, Homosexuals, and Liberals. Do you think these words are deeply out of touch with President Reagan's ideals of tolerance?

5. Rebuttal Period

New York City Democratic Debate

Brian Williams: Welcome to the CNBC/Wall Street Journal New York City Democratic presidential debate. We're joined at Pace University by all of our Democratic candidates for president. I'm Brian Williams, I'll be moderating tonights debate. I'm joined by Gerald Seib of The Wall Street Journal, Ron Insana of CNBC and Gloria Borger of CNBC. Now let's begin.

1. An Opening Statement

2. We stand near the site of the 9/11 terror attacks, where thousands of New Yorkers and New Jerseyans were killed. We're joined tonight by many tri-state Democratic leaders, and they, as well as New Yorkers, Democrats, and Americans across the country want to know how you will keep them safe from terrorism as President. So, as President, how will you keep Americans safe?

3. What should the timeline be for American withdrawal from Iraq? Should there even be a timetable at this time with so much uncertainty?

4. Use one phrase to describe what we can expect from your presidency.

Personalized Questions:
To Governor Dean: You were Governor of one of our union's smallest states for about a decade. You have no experience in Congress or in the diplomatic service. In this time of global uncertainty, what makes you qualified to lead America on the world stage?
To Senator Kerry: Was your vote to authorize use of force in Iraq a mistake?
To Senator Lieberman: You've said other Democrats on this stage want to "cut and run" from Iraq. You've supported the invasion all this time, why are you right and they wrong?
To Senator Biden: You ran for President in 1988, but your campaign was hurt by allegations of plagiarizing speeches from British former Labour leader Neil Kinnock, and other dishonesty. Do you believe this is still a problem? Can Americans trust you?
To General Clark: In 2000 and 2001, you approached Newt Gingrich and praised Donald Rumsfeld, Dick Cheney, and joked you were only a Democrat because Karl Rove didn't return your phone calls. Are you really a Democrat, or is this just a matter of political expedience?
To Senator Braun: What do you have to say about the historic nature of your candidacy, as not only African American, but a woman?
To Congressman Kucinich: You've gotten some traction in the polls in Iowa lately, but some Americans think you're just too extreme to beat the Republicans. What do you think?
To Governor Locke: As Governor, you promised to balance the budget without raising taxes. To that end you passed substantial cuts to public spending across the board, including to education. How is this consistent with Democratic values?

5. Rebuttal Period

[NewYorkExpress]

Democratic Presidential Debate: Joe Lieberman

This First Presidential Primary is considered a great way to separate the pretenders from the contenders. I hope to be considered a contender in this race.


1. Part of the problem is the specific brand of Salafi Islam practiced in places like Saudi Arabia which help Al-Qaeda flourish. Since Saudi Arabia is unable or unwilling to take down the Salafis, and may be supporting them, it falls to us to do so. Obviously, I don't want to put American troops in Saudi Arabia. That would be a disaster of epic scale. But a judicious use of sanctions, and not purchasing Saudi oil, should be enough to spur the Saudi Government into action to crack down on the Salafi Preachers and corrupt officials that helped Al-Qaeda grow and thrive.

We also shouldn't forget about the problems of domestic terrorism. Just because Islamic Terrorism has taken over our attention after 9/11, doesn't mean people like Timothy McVeigh aren't still out there. As President, I'll push for the biggest budget increase the FBI has ever received, so we can fight terrorism, at home and abroad.

2. I won't consider withdrawing from Iraq or Afghanistan until victory has been achieved. That may mean we never withdraw from Iraq or Afghanistan, and you what, if that's the price we pay for keeping America safe from terrorism, that's fine with me.

3. Safety. I will bring Safety to America.

4. The only thing than what is going on right now in Iraq and Afghanistan is a United States Military that is defeated on the battlefield. That's the lesson Senator Kerry should have learned from his service in Vietnam, and that's the lesson I will apply as President.

5. Senator, I'll make things very clear to you. There are Muslim countries that very much are allies, and have behaved like our allies all this time, like Jordan, for example. Suadi Arabia, because of there behavior in spreading a very specific brand of Wahabi Islam is not an ally, and most certainly has not behaved like one, and for you or anyone else to say that they are is quite honestly, naive.

[RGM2609]

Governor Jeb Bush's October schedule

October 1st-10th - Campaigning in Iowa, rallies and town halls as well as visits to local small businesses and meetings to court the endorsements of Senator Chuck Grassley, Representatives Jim Nussel, Jim Leach, and Tom Natham, Iowa State Auditor David Vaudt, Iowa State House Speaker Christopher Rants, and Iowa State Senate President Jeff Lamberti.

October 11st-14th - Meetings courting the endorsements of aforementioned officials

October 15th-22nd - Governor duties in Florida

October 23rd-29th - Campaigning for Republican candidates for Governor in Mississippi, Louisiana, and Kentucky

October 30th-31st - Meetings courting the endorsements of aforementioned Iowa officials, rallies in Des Moines and Iowa City

[Orwell]

1. An Opening Statement

Hello, I'm John Kerry. I'd like to introduce myself tonight to you the American people. I served in Vietnam and was awarded a silver star, a pair of bronze stars, and three purple hearts. But, I am not a hero. The true heroes were the men who served with me that didn't come home. Because it is not about the medals pinned on your chest, but the courage you show under fire. For the last 19 years I have served as a United States Senator from Massachusetts. and for the next four I ask to serve as the President of the United States. Because we need a uniter in the white house during this time of great turmoil. I worked with Senators Hagel and McCain to find the truth about the men that didn't make it home. And I am willing to work with anyone regardless of party to put make it easier for families to put food on the table, lower the cost of healthcare, and make it easier to achieve the American dream. I'm John Kerry, and I ask you to join me in making America stronger at home and respected abroad.

2. We stand near the site of the 9/11 terror attacks, where thousands of New Yorkers and New Jerseyans were killed. We're joined tonight by many tri-state Democratic leaders, and they, as well as New Yorkers, Democrats, and Americans across the country want to know how you will keep them safe from terrorism as President. So, as President, how will you keep Americans safe?

I'll disagree with Senator Lieberman here, he is going after Islam. These attacks were political. This is not a question of religion, terrorism comes in all shapes and sizes, white or black, muslim or christian, man or woman. These attacks were not done by a religion, or by all 1 billion people on our Earth that practice Islam. They were done by ideologues with similar goals and aims as Adolf Hitler. The eradication of free thought, the eradication of women's and gay rights, and the eradication of the United States of America. What we need to do is go after the perpetrators of these attacks and not after our allies in Saudi Arabia. We need to focus on supporting democratic initiatives in the mideast including strong Democracies as seen in Israel and Turkey. We need to keep troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, but expand the coalition with greater participation by the United Nations and NATO. Finally, we need to work on healing our relationships with local tribal leaders in Iraq and Afghanistan so we can see the United States out of Iraq by 2010.

3. What should the timeline be for American withdrawal from Iraq? Should there even be a timetable at this time with so much uncertainty?

   I don't think we have enough information for a concrete withdrawal from Iraq, but I truly believe with changes to our current strategy implemented we will be able to leave Iraq by 2008. At the moment the President should request a larger coalition be involved in the occupation Iraq by involving the United Nations and NATO allies. We should repair our relationship with the locals and increase funding to the Iraqi government to utilize for anti-corruption and humanitarian relief. We must allow for all ethnic groups in Iraq to have a measure of autonomy within their own region, allowing the central government to collect oil revenues and defending the nation's borders. We would also guarantee the Sunnis who currently have no oil rights a proportional share of Iraq's oil wealth. We would increase humanitarian assistance to Iraq and tie the funding to job programs and the protection of minority rights. Begin a redeployment of American troops, and a gradual withdrawal until a small force is left for policing and security by 2008.

4. Use one phrase to describe what we can expect from your presidency.

Stronger at Home, Respected Abroad.

To Senator Kerry: Was your vote to authorize use of force in Iraq a mistake?

As the truth has been revealed, I would say it was. I would say the United States Congress, The President of the United States, and most importantly the people of the United States were misled by the intelligence community into the invasion of Iraq. If the vote were held today with what I know, I would strongly oppose the invasion. Today, we have men overseas dying in a war seen by many in the United States and across the globe as a quagmire rivaled only by Vietnam in our nation's history. I have proposed my plan to end Iraq by the end of my term as President, to quote Mahatma Ghandi, "Forgiveness is not for the weak, forgiveness is an attribute of the strong." I ask the American people, who after the last 4 years are the among the strongest in the world to forgive me.

[Orwell]

Kerry attacks Marriage amendment, calls for Congressional action on Civil Unions

Today, Senator and 2004 Presidential candidate John Kerry (D-MA) attacked Arkansas Governor and 2004 candidate Mike Huckabee (R-AR) and South Carolina Senator Jim DeMint (R-SC) for what Kerry said in San Francisco's Castro district was, "Little more than saber rattling and a thinly veiled attack on the gay community in the United States." Kerry would later go onto push for Congressional action on the issue calling for Congress to back Civil Unions and personally guaranteeing to introduce legislation once Congress returns from recess. Earlier this summer the United States Supreme Court decided in a landmark ruling to declare laws banning sodomy in the United States unconstitutional. In the 6-3 decision the court found that laws such as these violate the equal protection clause and right to privacy of the 14th amendment.

   Senator Kerry has been vocal in his support of gay rights since at least 1996 saying the following in response to attacks from then Governor Bill Weld in a campaign for United States Senate, "I am fully for total civil rights for gay and lesbian couples. I personally believe marriage is between one man and one woman, but we need to ensure that gay and lesbian people are not discriminated against by the government for who they love." Earlier in the campaign, Kerry also commented on how he believed that the constitution protected the right for same sex couples to enter into civil union partnerships. In relation to the DeMint-Huckabee amendment he is the first Democratic candidate to voice his opposition and one of the first members of Congress to do so. Kerry holds a 100% rating from the Human Rights Campaign indicating that he is supportive of civil rights for Gay and Lesbian Americans.

Iowa AG Tom Miller backs Kerry in 2004 campaign

Today, in an announcement in Des Moines, longtime Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller (D-IA) officially announced his endorsement of Senator John Kerry for the Democratic Presidential nomination in 2004. Miller who endorsed fellow Iowan early on in the 1992 contests, before endorsing Vice President Al Gore early in the 2000 cycle. Miller said of Kerry that, "He is what a President should be, he wants to work for the American people and he is like many Iowans in that he is proud of to be from this nation, Senator Kerry is a patriot and will make a great President." Miller was joined in his announcement by Iowa Secretary of State Chet Culver, the son of Former United States Senator John Culver. Culver said of Senator Kerry, "He is a great friend, a great Senator, and is the best candidate not just to serve the people of Iowa, but the entire nation as President."

    Culver and Miller are slated to appear at a rally with Senator Kerry Thursday night in Ames where they will speak with an assembly of Iowa State College Democrats. This is a major boon for the Kerry campaign and this means that the Senator will be gaining some much needed momentum in Iowa, as he will have access to the extensive connections of both AG Miller and Secretary Culver. Another major endorser Governor Tom Vilsack (D-IA) was subject to speculations of a run of his own, but he has declined so far in 2004. The biggest prize in Iowa though, is Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) the longtime Senator and 1992 Presidential candidate was long thought to be favoring Former Vermont Governor Howard Dean, but the entry of his Senate colleagues John Kerry and Joe Biden along with retired Four Star General Wesley Clark have shooken up the race for the Senators support.

[Fetterman my beloved]

1. An Opening Statement

Ladies and Gentleman, America is in a dangerous place. Our defense budget is being inflated to new highs in order to support the riches of oil men. Our social programs are being drained of their value so that our nations neediest starve. Free trade agreements such as NAFTA and the WTO are destroying American jobs and leaving our people without jobs. Conservative politicians are attacking the rights of the American people, including the right to privacy and the right to marry. But I’m not like them, I’m Dennis Kucinich.

As President, I will work with the UN and coalition forces to establish a new government and get us out of this war quickly. I will repeal the patriot act and fight against the draconian Marriage Defense amendment. As president, I will fight for the average American, and not the rich oil man.

2. We stand near the site of the 9/11 terror attacks, where thousands of New Yorkers and New Jerseyans were killed. We're joined tonight by many tri-state Democratic leaders, and they, as well as New Yorkers, Democrats, and Americans across the country want to know how you will keep them safe from terrorism as President. So, as President, how will you keep Americans safe?

Brian, I want America to be safe from any terrorist threat. However, I believe that we must do this through cooperation, not through the actions of an empire. As president, I will partner with UN and coalition forces to secure our withdrawal from Iraq as soon as possible. I want to work with our allies in the world to make sure that we can make America safe, and find Bin Laden as soon as possible. I will also repeal destructive legislation such as the patriot act, which has decreased Americans civil rights. Overall, I want our nation to act with the world in our actions, and not against it.

3. What should the timeline be for American withdrawal from Iraq? Should there even be a timetable at this time with so much uncertainty?

As soon as I get into office, my first action will be a meeting with UN officials and coalition forces to establish a new government and cement our withdrawal from the nation as soon as possible. We will pull out of this war as soon as possible, and be full withdrawn by late 2005, with transitional powers resting in coalition forces and the United Nations. It’s time that we return respect to America worldwide, and move past the failures of this administration.

4. Strength through peace.

5. To Congressman Kucinich: You've gotten some traction in the polls in Iowa lately, but some Americans think you're just too extreme to beat the Republicans. What do you think?

Brian, the fact is is that when the status quo in America is sending our boys to a war for the rich, denying our people the human right of healthcare, putting business over workers in our free trade deals, and spying on our loyal citizens, common sense is going to look like radicalism. I’ve been painted as a radical throughout my whole career in politics by my opponents. Despite this, when I ran for Mayor of Cleveland, State Senator, and eventually Congressman, I defeated Republican incumbents, and I’m hoping I can take the fight to the republicans next November.

[Fetterman my beloved]

Congressman Kucinich Criticizes Marriage Defense Amendment, Cheney’s Request for Extra Funding

File:Dennis Kucinich (01).jpg by Roger H. Goun, On Wikimedia Commons

At a rally in New Hampshire, Congressman Kucinich criticized the Marriage Defense Amendment introduced in Congress by Jim DeMint and supported by Governor Mike Huckabee. Kucinich stated “Conservatives like Huckabee constantly talk about how the government is involved too much in the lives of this nation, but whenever the government has a chance to kick gay people around, they’re all for it.” Kucinich then made a call for the legalization of gay marriage, and criticized senator Kerry, stating “The state has no right to say if a man and a man and a woman and a woman can marry. Gays are equal members of society just like straight people, and the fact that democrats like Kerry are calling for civil unions is an insult to what this party stands for.”

Kucinich also criticized President Cheney’s call for 85 billion dollars of funding for American wars, stating “This war is a national embarrassment for America, and yet Cheney is doubling down, and wasting money that could be going to helping the poor to give more money to the military-industrial complex. Frankly, President Cheney and the Republicans are an embarrassment to this nation.”

[GoTfan]

Clark: No on Huckabee's Marriage Amendment, Cheney's Additional Funding

At a town hall meeting in New Mexico, Gen. Clark was asked for his stance on Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee's proposed Marriage Defense Amendment, as well as whether he would support the surge of funding for Iraq that has been proposed by Pres. Cheney.

"Absolutely not." He said in reply to being asked about Huckabee's proposed amendment. "I've had friends and comrades in arms from the gay community. Let me say something; when you're under fire, it doesn't matter who the person next to loves, all that matters is that they get the job done. Governor Hucabee and Senator DeMint are seeking to undermine the strides that have been made in advancing rights for the gay community." A follow up question, asked regarding his stance of gays in the military, Clark simply replied "If you do your job, none of that matters."

When asked on the surge of funding requested for the war in Iraq, Clark had an equally mephatic reply. "No way." He elaborated: "Our intentions in the Middle East may have been good, but they were based on false intelligence. What was our objective in Afghanistan? To topple the Taliban government. We've done that. What was our objective in Iraq? To topple Saddam Hussein's government. We've done that. We're falling victim to mission creep, changing our objectives when we achieve them. Throwing more money at the problem, right after irresponsibly large tax cuts, will not solve the issue."

[Left Wing]

Colin Powell Debate Answers

1. An Opening Statement. Well first of all I want to thank you Chris, MSNBC and the Reagan Presidential Library for hosting this event. I also want to thank my fellow candidates for attending. We are at a very important moment in our nation's history. We face unprecedented global challenges both at home and abroad. We are adjusting to a new world in every regard, from innovations in technology not thought possible a decade ago to new methods of terrorism that threaten our very way of life. Change is hard, but I know America can meet this moment and not lose sight of what makes our country so great. Throughout my service to this country, I've seen Americans through thick and thin always strive to do better, to make things better. As many of you may know, I served as National Security Advisor in President Reagan's administration. Under that time, we saw unprecedented success in American foreign policy, most notably, the fall of communism and the Soviet Union. After these eight years of success and all was said and done he left with grace and with the respect of the people he served. After having served under President Reagan and later holding office as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Secretary of State, I've realized that great leadership can only be attained with the respect of those you lead and serve. And because I believe I know how to make America safer, create jobs, fix our economy I'm asking you to put your trust in me and my record as United States President

2. I want to tell the American people right now that under a Powell administration, their safety will be my number one priority. My whole military career, my number one goal was always to keep our people safe at all costs. It's why I ran into a burning helicopter crash in Vietnam to save my comrades. I'll work just as tirelessly as I did then on your behalf. So let's talk specifics. What we need to continue doing is using our full power to go after terrorist cells plotting attacks right here at home. Secretary Danforth has seen great success in doing this and I will make sure the Justice Department remains diligent. What is also extremely important is staying the course in Iraq and Afghanistan. We have made great progress in the last two years in the countries and we can't afford to cut and run now. We are a global leader with the strongest military in the world, I'm confident we can protect these new democracies we will create and never allow them to become hotbeds of anti-American terrorism again.

3. We need to be careful about carrying out what we set to do in that country which is to bring a stable democracy. We need to invest in infrastructure, schools, utilities. There have been unfortunate missteps in this regard, particularly with the disbanding of the Iraqi Army which may lead to thousands of new recruits for extremist groups. We must look past this and see how we can continue pragmatically into the future. I don't support a troop surge as I don't believe it is necessary at this time but we need to continue monitoring the situation closely. As president, I'll reach out to key allies and try to bring more of a multilateral coalition to rebuilding the nation. I can't give you any specific timetable for withdrawal right now, and doing so would be a gift to the terrorists. I will say that our troops will be ready to come home once we can ensure Iraqis have safe, free elections and I'm committed to accomplishing that as soon as possible.

4. Yes I do believe in evolution. It's what the science says and to me, I don't see how that's incompatible with a strong Christian faith.

5. I know this is a very controversial issue and I'm not going to deny reality on opinion polls. Me, Secretary Ridge, and Mayor Giuliani have all described ourselves as pro-choice in the past and I'm not going to change my position for opportunistic electoral reasons and I hope they would do the sam. Look, I have one position, other Republicans have another. I'm running to be a President for all Americans, and that includes all Republicans. I will respect the opinions of  every voter and every member of congress. I'm confident we can come to reasonable compromise without tearing each other apart and letting the Democrats into power. As I said at the 1996 RNC, we are a big enough party and big enough people to disagree on individual issues and still work together for our common goal, restoring the American Dream.

[Alcibiades]

Howard Dean Debate Answers

1. I know this might sound like a cliché, but this truly is a momentous election in determining the future of our great country. A stark choice faces us: heartless corporatism, social division, and continuing a pointless war which has debased America’s reputation abroad; or building a nation which truly fulfills our Founders’ promise of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, in which no American has to worry about going without healthcare, a fairer nation, and one which stands as a shining beacon to the rest of the world, upholding a rules-based international order of human rights. As Democratic voters, you have a special chance to influence the direction our country takes this year; either you can select a candidate who is afraid to challenge the Republicans’ narrow vision of America, who is ashamed to stand up for the true values of the party of Roosevelt, Truman and Kennedy; or you can place your trust in me, and I promise I will fight tirelessly for the kind of country we can, should, and must be.

2. I fear our present foreign policy is absolutely jeopardising the safety of Americans, and we need to swiftly change course if we don’t want our enemies to gain the upper hand. First of all, we need to rebuild the bonds with our traditional democratic allies which have been so weakened by the farcical conduct of the present administration. Terror thrives in the face of division among those it seeks to hurt the most. Secondly, we need to withdraw from the war in Iraq in a swift and orderly manner. Saddam is a vile dictator, but he was not responsible for 9/11, and destabilising a country as fragile as Iraq in the manner I fear our intervention may do could create a breeding ground for terror and resentment against the United States. I want to be clear, however, that I support the continuation of the War in Afghanistan; the Taliban must be never be allowed to regain control after their unacceptable actions in sheltering al-Qaeda. Finally, I think it’s worth asking what the terrorists want, and what victory looks like for them. It’s not realistically al-Qaeda flags flying over every American building, but rather a climate of fear and repression. In that sense, then, I am deeply worried about the infringements on our hard-won civil liberties that seem to increasingly be being brought about.

3. As I’ve said, I support the orderly withdrawal from Iraq of the overwhelming majority of American forces in the near future. We should coordinate with the UN, and hand over control of the country to credible Iraqi leaders, who both support democratic principles and can command the support of their people. Now that we are in there, we have an obligation to the Iraqi people to help them build a fairer and more democratic system of government, but, ultimately, such a system will never last unless it is largely built organically by the Iraqi people themselves; so I definitely don’t support us maintaining a long-term presence. So, to answer your question, ideally we would be looking at near-total withdrawal within two years of me taking office if I am elected, and I absolutely do think it’s necessary to set out a timetable, otherwise there’s a risk of getting bogged down in a disastrous never-ending war.

4. Let’s take back America for everyone.

Personalised question: Well, first of all, I think there are a few reasons why my experience as a governor gives me an advantage. It obviously means I’m one of the few candidates on this stage with executive experience. Perhaps more importantly, it also means that I’ve been much more able to do what anyone in politics ought to have gotten into this line of work for in the first place — that is, helping people — than had I been stuck doing whatever goes on in Washington, DC, these days. For instance, one of my proudest accomplishments is our Dr. Dynasaur programme in Vermont, which has achieved near-universal health insurance coverage for children in our state, and I hope to use that experience once I’m in the White House to achieve the urgent task of getting health insurance to every American. As for foreign policy expertise, well I’ll let you folks watching at home decide whether those who mindlessly went along with Republican wars have better judgement than me.

[OBD]

Pat Robertson Debate Answers

Opening Statement
I am a husband, father, and patriot. That's who I am. I have run for office many times before. I have done this for you, my fellow Americans. Join me in my quest to restore our nation. America has fallen, but it is not too late to make it great again. America is a God given land of freedom, and I will fight to ensure that it remains a nation of God, and this generation will be remembered for its role in helping to make it such.

Vladimir Lenin is responsible for many of the atrocities that have happened in the 20th century. He is responsible for the Bolshevik revolution that led to the communist takeover of many countries, which resulted in tens of millions of deaths. Lenin did not believe in freedom or democracy. When the revolution failed, and his party was unable to achieve absolute power, he declared that he was just following orders. The reason, of course, was that his communist plans were unworkable. Communism is, and always has been, a failed economic and social experiment. Lenin, like Marx, was a great believer in the communist plan for economic equality. When, in the end, it failed, and their experiment turned out to be a complete disaster, Lenin declared himself to be a great "victim of circumstances."

The question is, is Hillary Clinton the new Lenin? How is it that a woman, who was the leading architect of the failed communist experiment, the first Marxist/Leninist, should be given the title of the nominee of a major political party? How is it that she, like Lenin, does not see that her communist agenda is just as much of a disaster as it was for him? Lenin's Bolshevik revolution, and her Marxist/Leninist movement failed. They caused tens of millions of deaths. Will she lead us down the same path of tyranny and murder? Is she really just another "victim of circumstances"? Or, will history record the fact that the Democrats, who once supported civil liberties and religious freedom, have given us an absolute leader of terror? I believe that she will run for President soon, she will run. If not her, it will be her husband, or one of her lackeys. I will beat her, and so I am running for President.

Question 1:
We as a nation, have angered God. We become safe by embracing God again. There will be no more terror attacks here at home if we embrace the Lord's honest truth, and the good news of Jesus Christ. No more gay marriage, no more communism, no more abortion. God will save us again if we love him again. So let's get to work on our national problems. The only solution to America's problem is to have a Christian leader. I am a Christian leader who will pass the marriage amendment, pass the life amendment, pass the flag burning amendment, and correctly interpret the first amendment, that America is a Christian nation. I am the right Christian leader to lead us into the second millennium.

Question 2:
I am committed to the total removal of Saddam Hussein's Ba'athist regime. I am also committed to the safety of the American people, and the security of Iraq. I am confident that we will achieve that goal, with the help of our allies.

I also am committed to the establishment of a representative government that is acceptable to the people of Iraq, and one that protects all religious and ethnic groups in Iraq, especially Iraqi Christians. In order to establish such a government, it will take time. It will take time for Iraqis to make the hard decisions that are needed to bring about a representative government in Iraq. We must not underestimate the hard work required. It will take time, and it will not be easy. I will make no secret of the challenge of the situation. I'm confident that I can make the right decisions to help Iraqis establish a representative government. It will also require a great deal of prayer, and our troops abroad will only be successful in Iraq if we seek the help of God, and if we pass the laws of God here at home.

Question 3:
Absolutely not, we did not evolve from monkeys my friends. We were created in the image of God by our Lord, in seven days. Don't let anybody tell you otherwise. Christians know this, and they can hear me tonight.

Question 4:
President Reagan was a Christian, and I think he'd agree with me on all of these things. He had very strong convictions on religious freedom. I think his views were so strong that he would not go against the core of his Christian beliefs. To do so would be to say that he would not do his job. He opposed rampant homosexuality very, very strongly, and he beat the liberals again and again, and if was around today he'd oppose rampant Islam. He'd defeat it again and again.

[Left Wing]

Colin Powell September Schedule

Experienced and Distinguished

September 1: Attend Republican Debate
September 2: Return to D.C, Cabinet Meeting
September 3: Fundraiser with George Schultz in D.C
September 4: Meeting with Congressman Tom Davis, continue to court endorsement
September 5: Barnstorming in McLean, Virginia
September 6: Rally in Manssasas with Congressman Frank Wolf
September 7: Meet with Voters at the Northern Virginia Veteran's Association in Woodbridge
September 8: Meet voters in Silver Spring, Maryland
September 9: Fundraiser with Bob Ehrlich and Michael Steele in Annapolis
September 10: Attend briefings, discuss strategy with staffers, plan Michigan ground game
September 11: Give address on 2 year anniversary of 9/11 near sight of the Pentagon attack

Excerpt from Speech

While two years ago today, unspeakably evil cowards tried to take away everything we held dear in this country, we stood strong and said no. We refused to abide by the rules of those who hate freedom, democracy, our way of life. We're ready to meet all future challenges and make sure there never is another 9/11.

September 13: Meeting with Kofi Annan in Geneva
September 14: Visit to Kuwait City
September 15: Meeting with Iraqi Governing Council in Baghdad
September 16: Flight to Detroit, meet with Campaign staff in newly established state headquarters
September 17: Group phonebank with volunteers, meet with voters in City
September 18: Drive to Lansing, greet voters upon arrival
September 19: Meetings with State Legislative Leaders, discuss trade, taxation issues
September 20: Meeting with Former Governor John Engler, seeking endorsement
September 21: Drive to Kalamazoo, barnstorming
September 22: Return to D.C, attend Cabinet Meeting
September 23: Meet with Congressman Fred Upton, seeking endorsement, emphasize common ground on pragmatism
September 24: Flight to Manchester, meet with volunteers and review progress in campaign
September 25: Meet with students at Southern New Hampshire University
September 26: Rally in Portsmouth
September 27: Meeting with former Governor and White House Chief of Staff John Sununu at his home, seeking endorsement
September 28-29: Portland, Maine barnstorming
September 30: Return to Washington, meet with congressional leaders

[GoTfan]

Wesley Clark debate answers

1) I served in our military for over 30 years. I served in Vietnam and at the end of my career, I wound up as SACUER. In my time, I have seen wars fought, leaders come and go, and the world change. In some cases for the better, in some cases for the worse. Tonight, I hope to present my case as to why I am the best candidate that the Democratic Party can put forward this November; not just to win the White House, but to carry enough Democrats over the line to help the people of this great nation.

2) We have measures in place to keep our citizens safe at the moment. We have greatly enhanced our security at airports and other points of entry into this country. We have methods for observing and reporting on those we suspect of terrorism. I must, however, register my alarm at how far some of these measures go; I cannot support the continued warrantless surveillance of American citizens, for example.

Out best option to fight terrorism practically is in reforming our military. We cannot keep to this mindset of global power projection; our military must be reorganised for versatility; to respond to threats at short notice. We must invest further in research and development of new technologies in order to facilitate this. A versatile military means a secure America, and one that will be able to defend itself from terrorism.

3) I will bring every single combat serviceman and woman in Iraq home by the end of my term. We went into this without the support of the United Nations and on false information, which is not something that Senators Kerry, Biden, and Lieberman looked too much into.

Our priority must be to turn this fight over to a new Iraqi Army, trained and armed by our forces before they leave. There must be strong democratic institutions, with independent courts and a functioning administrative system. My promise tonight is this; if elected, i will withdraw all our combat personnel within the confines of my term and will avoid another Vietnam. I experienced that fight firsthand, and wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy,

4) Renewal. I will do everything in my power to renew this country.

5) It was a badly timed joke, taken out of context. How many Republicans support a public option for healthcare? How many are pro-choice or pro-public education? I'm all of those things, so being a Republican wouldn't make a lot of sense for me. I was an independent as long as I was a soldier; it wouldn't be becoming of the uniform to pick political sides.

The Democratic Party stands for ordinary men and women and fair play. I do as well. It's an ethos we hold dear in the military: No one rises through the ranks without hard work. The Republican Party claims to believe in this idea, but they don't.

So I am a Democrat because I believe that the Democratic Party is the only party that truly represents the average American, and I will remain a Democrat for the rest of my life!

Responses

2. I won't consider withdrawing from Iraq or Afghanistan until victory has been achieved. That may mean we never withdraw from Iraq or Afghanistan, and you what, if that's the price we pay for keeping America safe from terrorism, that's fine with me.

4. The only thing than what is going on right now in Iraq and Afghanistan is a United States Military that is defeated on the battlefield. That's the lesson Senator Kerry should have learned from his service in Vietnam, and that's the lesson I will apply as President

I'm sorry, did I hear that right, Senator? You would never withdraw from Iraq or Afghanistan? You wouldn't entertain withdrawing at all? What does this idea of victory entail, Senator? We've toppled Saddam Hussein's government; we've achieved our original objective, and our objectives have already begun to shift to establishing a democratic Iraq.

This is the problem with these types of interventions; you need to have a clear timetable to withdraw or else it becomes a quagmire for you. We saw that happen before with the Vietnam War, which both Senator Kerry and I served in, so when you're finished talking about the need to stay in Iraq until some constantly goal-shifting idea of victory occurs, I would ask that you not denigrate the service of someone who fought for this country, Senator.

[Left Wing]

Colin Powell October Schedule

Experienced and Distinguished

October 1: Cabinet meeting, discuss progress in Iraq
October 2: Meet again with Congressman Jeb Bradley, continue to court endorsement
October 3: Flight to Manchester, greet supporters and meet with field team
October 4: Manchester Canvassing
October 5: Drive to Concord, meet with Governor Craig Benson
October 6: Rural Merrimack County barnstorming
October 7: Drive to Montpelier, Vermont, meet with Republican state legislators
October 8: Group phonebank with Vermont supporters
October 9: Meet with voters in Burlington, court endorsement of former Congressman Peter Plympton Smith at his home
October 10: Meet with college Republicans at UVM
October 11: Townhall in Milton, Vermont

Excerpt from Townhall
What Mr. Huckabee is trying to do right now in regard to the Defense of Marriage Amendment is divisive and he knows it. This is an issue Republicans of many different stripes have many different opinions on and we cannot allow ourselves to tear each other apart before this important election. Look, marriage is between a man and a woman, but this has always been a state issue and trying to make a constitutional amendment with no chance of passing a wedge issue is the petty politics we're all tired of.

October 12: Return to Washington, attend briefings
October 13: DC Fundraiser, meeting with Congressman Mike Castle to court endorsement
October 14: Fundraiser with Bob Ehrlich in Silver Spring
October 15-16: Meet with voters in Wilmington
October 17-20: Attend APEC Summit Meeting in Bangkok
October 21: Meet with President Kibaki in Kenya
October 22: Meet with Hosni Mubarak in Sharm el-Sheikh
October 23-24: Attend International Conference for the Reconstruction of Iraq in Madrid
October 25: Return to DC, Attend Cabinet meeting
October 26: Flight to SeaTac, greet supporters
October 28: Meet with voters in Kent
October 29: Fundraiser with Daniel J. Evans in Seattle
October 30: Drive to Olympia, meet with gubernatorial candidate Dino Rossi to seek endorsement
October 31: Return to DC, discuss strategy with advisors

[Brother Jonathan]

Senator McCain Debate Answers

1. An Opening Statement (asked to include President Reagan somehow in your remarks)

Thank you Chris, and thank you to the Reagan Library for hosting us today. I remember meeting President Reagan for the first time when I was working for his campaign in 1976. We lost that one, but we won in 1980 when this country truly needed leadership. My friends that’s what we need now, leadership. The situation in Iraq, our ongoing war against global terrorism, all require real and committed leadership to see through. I was proud to work with and learn from President Reagan, and I want to take his values to the White House once again, leading by example and pushing for tax cuts for middle-class Americans, standing up for our friends and against our enemies the world over, and always remembering the promise of America.

2. Gentlemen. It has been a scary three years for most Americans. Terrorists attacked us on 9/11, shocking the nation and leading us into a global war on terrorism. Only a few months ago, the President of the United States suddenly died. Americans want to know more than anything, how will you keep them safe, and what makes you the candidate best prepared to do so?

These past few years have been an unprecedented shock to our nation. The complacency of the Clinton years had allowed our enemies to grow strong, and now we must work hard to keep the gains we made under President Bush. I have the experience needed to help keep this country safe, and I have dedicated my career to it, first as a navy pilot, then as a Congressman, and now as a Senator on the Armed Services Committee. As President, I will continue to take the fight to the terrorists, I will send more troops into Iraq and give them the resources we know they need to combat the growing insurgency, and I will make sure that we continue to attack terrorists and the regimes that harbor them. Our nation is much safer now than it was only three years ago, but there is much work left to be done, and I will see it through.

3. We have around 150,000 soldiers stationed in Iraq. Combat with Ba'athist forces is ending, but an insurgency is developing, especially in the Sunni Triangle, where groups like Jamaat Ansar al-Sunna are thriving. What will you do to bring the situation in Iraq under control, and establish a functioning democracy? When can we expect our soldiers to return home if you are President?

My friends, we can start by giving the troops on the ground what they have told us they need. We should have committed more troops from the start, we should have had a full-time leader for the transition authority, we should have been ready to deal with the situation after Saddam Hussein was overthrown. I am thankful that President Cheney is willing to commit more resources, I only wish we were willing to do it when our Generals were telling us we needed more boots on the ground.  We need to build up a diverse Iraqi force to help our troops, we need to start working towards elections, and we have to be clear that we are committed to making Iraq a democracy. All that starts with stabilizing the situation and putting more troops in to stabilize the situation and treating this like a military action and not political theater.

4. (Please keep your answer to a few sentences). Do you believe in the theory of evolution?

The simple answer is yes, and I see no reason that makes me or anyone else a bad Christian.

To Senator McCain: You voted against the Bush tax cuts, which were highly popular among Republicans. Why did you oppose these tax cuts?

I opposed those cuts because they were not helping out the middle-class and were giving handouts to the wealthiest Americans. I support tax reform, I helped President Reagan pass several major tax reforms, but the tax cuts we passed in 2001 were just reverse pork barrel spending, giving handouts and padding to special interests and leaving the middle-class to pick up the bill down the road. We ought to be putting main street and the middle class first, and that’s what my tax plan will do.

[Kuumo]

Tom Ridge Debate Answers

1. An Opening Statement

Thanks, Chris. I’d like to start by thanking MSNBC and the Reagan Presidential Library for hosting us tonight. We stand at an important juncture in our nation’s future. As we mourn a national tragedy, we face uncertainties from the situation in Iraq, to the functioning of our economy, to who we are as a people. But I’m confident that we can meet these challenges as President Reagan did when we were saddled with stagflation at home and a hostage crisis overseas. We must strive to uphold his legacy by electing a leader prepared to take on these issues.


2. Gentlemen. It has been a scary three years for most Americans. Terrorists attacked us on 9/11, shocking the nation and leading us into a global war on terrorism. Only a few months ago, the President of the United States suddenly died. Americans want to know more than anything, how will you keep them safe, and what makes you the candidate best prepared to do so?

Two years ago, our nation faced the most serious attack on our soil since Pearl Harbor. It’s been a tumultuous time. The consequences of this election are hard to overstate. The country of Iraq remains unstable and continues to harbor terrorist groups that threaten the whole world. A wrong turn could jeopardize the safety of us all. In my career, from my service in Vietnam, to my tenure as governor, to my current job leading our new Department of Homeland Security, I have always put the safety of my fellow citizens first. We’ve made a lot of progress in combatting these threats at the DHS through greater coordination between federal and local agencies, but we must remain vigilant both inside and outside our borders. As President, I would continue my work in keeping our country safe.


3. We have around 150,000 soldiers stationed in Iraq. Combat with Ba'athist forces is ending, but an insurgency is developing, especially in the Sunni Triangle, where groups like Jamaat Ansar al-Sunna are thriving. What will you do to bring the situation in Iraq under control, and establish a functioning democracy? When can we expect our soldiers to return home if you are President?

We need to send in more reinforcements and supplies to the Coalition Provisional Authority so we can safely repel the insurgents. As a first step, I urge Congress to approve the additional military funding proposed by President Cheney. We need to stay in Iraq until a stable government is established there that can defend itself against any future attacks. I want to bring home the troops as much as anyone, but it would be irresponsible to withdraw them without an independent, functioning government in Baghdad.


4. Do you believe in the theory of evolution?

I believe that the findings of modern science have shown that the organisms we know today have evolved over millions of years from previous species. I do not see a conflict between accepting this and my religious faith. I believe that God is responsible for the existence of the universe and continues to influence it and define our place in it today.


5. The overwhelming majority of Republicans support restrictions on abortion. Both of you support abortion rights and oppose overturning Roe vs. Wade. Governor Ridge was just endorsed by many pro-choice Republican groups. How can you unite Republicans if you disagree on this pertinent issue?

As Republicans, we have to appeal to the interests of a lot of different factions. Even on this very stage, my colleagues and I run the gamut from neoconservatives to Christian conservatives to a libertarian. Sometimes we need the support of people we may not agree with on every issue but still share a common vision with us. With the situation today, we are currently in one of those moments. We will need the support of some voters who don’t agree with every plank of the Republican platform to keep our country on track. I am certainly well aware that my position on the abortion issue is not a popular one on the right. In light of this, if I am the nominee, I will choose a running mate committed to the pro-life cause to unite our party. I feel confident that we can come together based on our common values, most of all in a time of great peril such as today.

[Kuumo]

Tom Ridge Campaign Schedule
September 2003 - October 2003

September 1st: Participate in Republican primary debate.
September 2nd: Return to Washington.
September 3rd-4th: Attend to Department of Homeland Security duties.
September 5th: Fly into Manchester, NH; meet with the New Hampshire Union Leader editorial board.
September 6th: Town hall in Laconia, NH.

I cannot in good conscience support the Marriage Defense Amendment proposed by Congressman DeMint and Governor Huckabee. It is my sincere belief that marriage is between one man and one woman, and I would vote to keep it that way in my state, but this is clearly an issue for the people in each state to decide.

September 7th: Town hall in Rochester, NH; return to Washington.
September 8th-9th: Attend to Department of Homeland Security duties.
September 10th: Fly into New York City.
September 11th: Give address at 9/11 memorial ceremony at Ground Zero.

Two years ago today, people who want to destroy all that we stand for attacked us on our own soil. They sought to break our national spirit and scare us into submission. But we did not give in to fear. This tragedy has only made us stronger by reminding us of the values that unite us. I have faith that the century that began in fiery chaos will end with our flag flying high and the scourge of terrorism long defeated.

September 12th: Meet with Orthodox Jewish leaders in New York.
September 13th: Town hall on Staten Island; return to Washington.
September 15th-19th: Attend to Department of Homeland Security duties.
September 20th: Meet with Representative Frank Wolf in Falls Church, VA.
September 22nd-26th: Attend to Department of Homeland Security duties.
September 27th: Town hall in Virginia Beach, VA.
September 28th: Meet with Representative Charles Bass in Washington.
September 29th-30th: Attend to Department of Homeland Security duties.

October 1st: Meet with campaign advisors at campaign headquarters.
October 2nd: Fly into Manchester, NH.
October 3rd: Barnstorm Manchester, NH.
October 4th: Barnstorm Nashua, NH.
October 5th: Meet with Senator Judd Gregg in Portsmouth, NH.
October 6th: Return to Washington.
October 7th-10th: Attend to Department of Homeland Security duties.
October 11th: Fundraiser in Washington.
October 12th: Fly into El Paso, TX, to meet with Border Patrol as part of Homeland Security duties.
October 13th: Attend to duties in El Paso.
October 14th: Fly into San Diego, CA, to meet with Border Patrol.
October 15th: Attend to duties in San Diego.
October 16th: Return to Washington; attend to Department duties.
October 17th: Attend to Department of Homeland Security duties.
October 19th: Fly into St. Louis, MO.
October 20th: Town hall in Florissant, MO; drive to Kansas City area.
October 21th: Town hall in Independence, MO; fly back to Washington.
October 22nd-23rd: Attend to Department of Homeland Security duties.
October 24th: Meet with Representative Jeb Bradley in Washington.
October 27th-31st: Attend to Department of Homeland Security duties.

[Continential]

1. An Opening Statement (asked to include President Reagan somehow in your remarks)

Thank you Chris and Joe for being our moderators tonight and thank you to the Reagan library for hosting this debate today. I remember meeting President Reagan when I was Mayor of Peekskill in 1987, and I am a Republican in the vein of Reagan, because President Reagan's presidency was the definition of "good government" that worked for the people. If the people elect me to be your President, I will continue our fight for a "good" government that works for the people like Reagan and Bush did when they were Presidents.

2. Gentlemen. It has been a scary three years for most Americans. Terrorists attacked us on 9/11, shocking the nation and leading us into a global war on terrorism. Only a few months ago, the President of the United States suddenly died. Americans want to know more than anything, how will you keep them safe, and what makes you the candidate best prepared to do so?

I was Governor of New York during 9/11, and as Governor of New York, I helped lead the city's recovery and I ensured people that New York City was safe after people were thinking that New York wasn't safe and as President, I will ensure that the nation is safe from terrorism. I believe that a proactive response towards terrorism will make sure that the nation and our freedom are safe from the danger of terrorism and will ensure that the chances of another terrorist attack lowers by a lot. I am thankful to the late President George W. Bush for being a strong leader after the horror of 9/11 and implementing the common-sense measures needed to strengthen our nation's national security and to make our nation safe from terrorism.

3. We have around 150,000 soldiers stationed in Iraq. Combat with Ba'athist forces is ending, but an insurgency is developing, especially in the Sunni Triangle, where groups like Jamaat Ansar al-Sunna are thriving. What will you do to bring the situation in Iraq under control, and establish a functioning democracy? When can we expect our soldiers to return home if you are President?

As President I will ensure that our boys are home before the decade ends and be treated as heroes because they won Iraq! In my comprehensive plan on the Iraq War released on GeorgePataki.com or you can find it by googling webPataki, I have made several videos about the Iraq War and under a Pataki Presidency, I will ensure that our boys will be home before the decade ends, by making sure that Iraq's government is fair and equitable to every citizen, regardless if they are Shia, Sunni, Kurdish, or Christian, they should all be treated equally and I will make sure that the Iraqi military is at the same standard or better than many western militaries and we'll make sure that they are prepared to fight. If you want a President that will make Iraq secure, vote George Pataki for President.

4. (Please keep your answer to a few sentences). Do you believe in the theory of evolution?

As a devout christian and catholic throughout my life, I believe that humans evolved with the guidance of god and I do not see this in conflict with my faith.

To Governor Pataki: What makes you more qualified to be President than other people on this stage?

I am more qualified to be President than the other people in this stage because I have won in one of the most liberal states in the nation while passing common sense conservative policies like being the Governor who cut taxes the most and increasing the credit rating of New York by 3 along with reducing crime and making New York a better and safer to live. If you vote for George Pataki, you will vote for an electable common sense conservative who has implemented pragmatic conservative policies which helped many New Yorkers and will help the nation.

[Continential]

Governor Pataki's Campaign (September 1st to October 31st)

September 1 - Attend Republican Debate in Simi Valley

September 2 - 5
Between the second and the fifth, George Pataki will be doing his gubernatorial duties and then flying out to Manchester, where he will host town halls and make speeches. He will also be meeting with various local figures in the area, including former Mayor and Executive Councilor Raymond Wieczorek, along with various City Councilors, including City Councilor and candidate for Mayor Frank Guinta.

September 6
During the sixth, Pataki will unveil his plan for Israel to potentially get the support of AIPAC following the withrdaw of Lieberman, as his wife, Libby is a founder of a pro-Israel organization One Jerusalem along with Deputy PM Natan Sharansky, and the plan includes moving the American embassy to Jerusalem and various other changes that will favor Israel and Pataki will try to position himself as the pro-Israel candidate.

September 7-24
During these days, George Pataki will campaign in the small towns of New Hampshire, mostly visiting 10 or 15 towns per day, meeting with ordinary voters in town halls and speeches and trying to secure the support of local leaders and state representatives, trying to secure their support. During the 15th, George Pataki will release his platform for the environment on "webPataki" and running an open campaign, inviting reporters to follow him so he could get attention to make sure that people are aware of his campaign while visiting the towns where few people live in.

September 25-31
George Pataki will relax and focus on his gubernatorial duties in New York.

October 1-3
George Pataki will fundraise, using "webPataki" to ask for donations and meeting with various moderate Republican fundraisers to convince them to support George Pataki.

October 3-20 - Campaigning in New Hampshire

October 21-23 Campaigning in Iowa

October 24-30 Focus on Gubernatorial duties

October 31 Meeting with John Sununu and convincing him to support Pataiki

[Fetterman my beloved]

Dennis Kucinich Campaign Schedule September-October.
September 1: Attend Democratic Debate
September 2: Town Hall in Ames, IA
September 3: Rally in Des Moines, IA.

“The corporate politicians in Washington want the American worker to think that everything is just fine. They don’t want you to know that despite the fact that workers are working harder and longer than they were 20 years ago, you have much less in purchasing power. It is time that politicians stop throwing the American worker under the bus, and we start strengthening workers rights, renegotiate our unfair trade deals, and give the American worker his pay, not the millionaire bosses.”

September 4th: Speech at the University of Washington sponsored by the University of Washington College Democrats.
September 5th: Rally in Seattle.
September 6th-September 10th: Attend to House Duties.
September 11th: Suspend campaigning for the day to travel to New York City, visit ground zero, and speak to the families of 9/11 victims and survivors.
September 12th: Release of Campaign ad in Iowa

“Unfair trade agreements such as NAFTA have hurt the industrial Midwest, and has made America lose millions of jobs. Despite this, mainstream democratic candidates such as John Kerry and Joe Biden support these agreements. Dennis Kucinich has fought for working Americans his whole life, fighting against unfair trade agreements and for the American Worker. Vote Kucinich, for a fairer economy.

I’m Dennis Kucinich, and I approve this message.”

September 13th: Rally in Brentwood, New Hampshire.

September 14th: Live Q&A session on Kucinich campaign website.

“Q: While I support a majority of your policies, I feel as if your position on gay marriage is too extreme, as I support civil unions, but not full on marriage. Why should I support you with this disagreement on policy?

A: This campaign is a campaign for human rights. Human rights for the Iraqis, for the American worker, for the women of America, for African-Americans, and even for the gays & lesbians of this country. The fact is, while you may not be a homosexual yourself, these essential rights are given to them by the constitution. So to answer your question, you should support me not because I am the candidate for gay rights, but for human rights as a whole. I will fight for the rights of every single American who is not receiving the full benefits of the constitution, and actually fight for the rights enshrined in the constitution, unlike a majority of my Democratic opponents.

Q: If you could pass one piece of your agenda immediately without any opposition, what would it be?

A: If I could pass one piece of my agenda immediately, it would probably be an immediate withdrawal from Iraq. The Iraq war has been a disgrace for the people of America, and has made America look like a fool across the world. The only thing it has done was enrich oil men, a fact that I knew from the beginning when I voted against it. It is important that we withdrawal from this war as quickly as possible, and rebuild the respect that we lost worldwide.

Q: My brother is an Iraq war veteran who was recently honorably discharged from the military. What will you do to make sure my brother and many other veterans are able to successfully reintegrate into civilian life?

A: First of all, please tell your brother that I appreciate his service for this country. Even though I believe this war was unjustifiable, I believe that our military veterans deserve our respect and honor, especially in terms of returning to civilian life. I have spoken to several veterans in the past, and reintegrating into civilian life is something that I believe that the government is failing miserably at. As your president, I will fight for cuts to the defense budget, in order to better fund and managed our terribly underfunded VA. I am the candidate that will fight for better conditions for veterans at home, and not just throw them to the side after we have physically and emotionally distressed them.”

September 15th: Speech at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland.
September 16th-18th: Meeting with strategy team.
September 19th-23rd: Attend to house duties.
September 24th: Rally in Washington, D.C.
September 25th: Town Hall in Dearborn, Michigan.
September 26th: Town Hall in Mason City, Iowa.
September 27th: Question and Answer session at Iowa State University sponsored by the Iowa State College Democrats.

“Student: While I agree with a lot of your policy, a lot of my friends are concerned about what your policies, along with other democratic candidates, would affect the economy. How will you, as president, maintain a strong balance of keeping our economy strong while passing your policy agendas.
Kucinich: Great question, and thank you for asking about that. I believe that people across America have become accustomed to the idea that less regulation means a stronger economy and more regulation means a weaker economy, but let me tell you, despite what Ayn Rand says, that’s far from the truth. The fact is is that our economy is a ticking time bomb, in which deregulation has lead to further corrupt business practices. Just look at Enron, a corporation which made it’s mark in the deregulation by the Reagan Administration. They kept getting more and more corrupt as the years went on, until they were caught, their stock price fell to pennies, and made thousands of Americans lose their jobs. My proposals will make sure that our economy is stable, and so that the corrupt practices of a few money hungry CEO’s can’t destroy the prosperity of the average American.”

September 28th: Rally in Fort Dodge, Iowa.
September 29th-October 2nd: Attend to House duties.
October 3rd: Rally in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
October 4th: Speech at New Mexico State University.
October 5th: Town Hall in Portland, Maine.
October 6th: Release of campaign ad in New Hampshire.

“The right to privacy is one of the most important rights enshrined in the constitution…except for the politicians. Politicians in Washington voted for the Patriot act, which allowed the United States government to spy on innocent civilians under the guise of protection from terrorism. But one politician is different… Dennis Kucinich.

Dennis believes that we can defend America from terrorism without destroying our constitutional rights. He voted against the patriot act, and is fighting to have it repealed as a congressman. Dennis is running for president, on a campaign for constitutional rights and civil liberties. Vote for Dennis, so you can have your privacy.

I’m Dennis Kucinich, and I approve this message.”

October 7th-10th: Attend to house duties.
October 11th-12th: Meet with Iowa strategy team in Des Moines.
October 13th: Rally in Waterloo, Iowa, interview by the Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier.
October 14th: Rally in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
October 15th: Town Hall in Iowa City, Iowa.

“Audience member: What will you do to fight for farmers and rural communities, who have felt abandoned by the government in the past few decades?

Kucinich: That is a great question, and one that I am very excited to answer. Despite the fact that I represent an urban city as a congressman, I have fought tooth and nail for family-owned farms and rural communities. In the past few decades, farming conglomerates have taken over the American farming industry, and killed family-owned farms, destroying the economic opportunities of rural America. As president, I will break up these rural farming monopolies, and return agriculture back to the families, I will ensure fair prices to our farmers. As president, I will promise to restore the family farm, and bring back opportunity to rural America.”

October 16th-19th:Attend to House Duties.
October 20th: Rally in Seattle.
October 21st: Town Hall in Olympia, Washington.
October 22nd: Town Hall in Longview, Washington.
October 23rd: Rally in Vancouver, Washington.
October 24th-26th: Meet with strategy team in Cleveland.
October 27th-30th: Attend to House duties.
October 31st: Go home to Cleveland for Halloween.

[Alcibiades]

September and October schedule

1 September: Attend Democratic debate in New York City, NY.

2 September: Stump speech in Newark, NJ, focusing on healthcare.

4 September: Town hall at Swarthmore College, PA.

5 September: Meet supporters in Philadelphia, PA.

7 September: Meet with Vermont’s congressional delegation in Washington, DC.

9 September: Town Hall in Yonkers, NY.

11 September: Attend 9/11 memorial in New York City, NY.

13 September: Town hall in St Paul, MN.

14 September: Meet with local SEIU members in Minneapolis, MN.

16 September: Meet with supporters in Rochester, MN, hear views on tax reform.

18 September: Interview with NPR:

In your view, what’s the biggest problem with the way politics is currently done in the United States?

The nature of fundraising, absolutely. Most candidates, and it pains me to say this is a Democratic problem as well as a Republican one, predominantly rely on big corporate donors, and, well, I don’t think it takes a genius to figure out the problems that leads to in terms of influencing policy and relegating the needs and voices of ordinary people. That’s why I’ve focused on getting lots of small donations from the everyday folks who support my campaign, and, quite frankly, I think my fellow candidates are shocked at how successful it’s been. More than just my own benefit, I hope the success of what we’ve been doing can show future politicians there’s another way forward, and really turn a leaf on the relationship between money and politics in this country.

19 September: Visit diner in Decorah, IA.

21 September: Check in on Iowa campaign HQ operations.

22 September: Town hall at high school in Mechanicsville, IA.

24 September: Visit dairy farmers in Guttenberg, IA.

Our family farmers are one of the backbones of our nation, and so, like in all too many other areas of our nation’s life, the encroachment of corporate greed onto their lovingly-tended-to territory disturbs me greatly. As President, I’ll make sure any farm bills in Congress focus on smaller farmers, not big ag, which hardly needs any more help.

26 September: Town hall in Eau Claire, WI.

29 September: Announce new fundraising campaign to match money raised by exclusive RNC dinner attended by Vice President Cheney.

1 October: Town hall in Chapel Hill, NC.

2 October: Help at soup kitchen organised by local church in Durham, NC.

4 October: Speech on deficit in Charlotte, NC.

6 October: Visit veterans’ hospital in Columbia, SC.

9 October: Talk about plans to protect and strengthen Medicare with supporters in Tampa, FL.

10 October: Visit Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, FL, and give speech on importance of funding for scientific research.

12 October: Town hall in Laconia, NH.

14 October: Give speech as guest at College Democrats’ dinner at UNH, Durham, NH.

15 October: Town hall in Dover, NH.

17 October: Foreign policy speech at University of Michigan, MI.

Y’know, I kinda have to admit it’s a bit of a cliché, but I don’t think the people leading our foreign policy at the moment are asking themselves the question, “What will our grandchildren think of this?” What will they think? A war with flimsy justification? American blood spilled needlessly? The long-term destabilisation of an already volatile region? The obliteration of the United States’ moral authority? These are the questions which will be affecting not just the world, but the world, long after I’m gone. And right now I fear the present administration is totally ignoring them. As President, I’ll restore peace and honour to our great country which can do so much better on the world stage. If the present policy continues for even four more years, I am terrified that the damage done on the world stage may be irreparable.

19 October: Town hall in Columbus, OH.

20 October: Visit factory in Youngstown, OH.

22 October: Meet supporters in Pittsburgh, PA.

24 October: Meet with League of Conservation Voters in Washington, DC.

26 October: Town hall in Albuquerque, NM.

27 October: Meet supporters in Santa Fe, NM.

29 October: Speech on environment in Denver, CO.

31 October: Town hall on UC Boulder campus.