2004: Al Gore Presidency

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2000: Vice President Gore elected, defeats Governor Bush

On November 7, 2000, Vice President Al Gore emerged victorious in an incredibly close and contested presidential election, defeating Governor George W. Bush by an electoral count of 291-246. This election marked the first time in over a century that a presidential election ended with the winner having received fewer popular votes than the loser. This was due to the fact that Gore won the popular vote by nearly 500,000 votes, while Bush won the majority of the Electoral College.

The election was marked by numerous controversies, including the issue of the Florida recount and the Supreme Court’s ruling that ultimately decided the election. After the initial count of the Florida ballots, Bush held a slight lead over Gore, but the state was so close that an automatic recount was triggered. After the recount, Gore had actually taken the lead in Florida, but the Bush team challenged the recount results in court and the Supreme Court ultimately ruled that the recount should continue, resulting in the election going in Gore's favor.

Gore’s victory was a testament to his political savvy, as well as his commitment to the issues he championed during the campaign. He ran on a platform of environmentalism, economic reform, and social justice, and he was able to rally a broad base of support from many different demographics. His victory was also a testament to the power of the Democratic Party, which was able to successfully defend their candidate in the face of a powerful Republican opponent.

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President Al Gore's first year: 2001

Successes:

1. President Gore signed a tax cut package that provided the largest tax relief in two decades.

2. He proposed a $1.3 trillion budget that included money for education, health care, and environmental protection.

3. He signed legislation that strengthened the enforcement of civil rights laws and increased funding for Title IX programs.

4. He negotiated an agreement with China that opened up the Chinese market to American businesses and allowed more access to Chinese products.

5. He established a commission to examine campaign finance reform.

6. He launched an initiative to increase energy efficiency and reduce the nation’s dependence on foreign oil.

7. He signed an executive order to protect the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge from oil drilling.

Failures:

1. He failed to pass the Patients' Bill of Rights, which would have provided more consumer protections for those with health insurance.

2. He failed to pass comprehensive campaign finance reform.

3. He failed to pass a comprehensive energy bill that would have increased renewable energy sources.

4. He failed to pass legislation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

5. The terrorist attack of 9/11 that occurred under his watch.

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President Al Gore's Second Year: 2002

Successes:
1. Signed the Education and Economic Growth Act of 2002, which provided additional federal funding to states for K-12 education and improved student performance.

2. Signed the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2002, which provided tax relief for small businesses and lower-income families.

3. Successfully negotiated a peace treaty between Israel and Palestine, ending the long-standing conflict in the Middle East.

4. Signed the USA Patriot Act, which increased the federal government's powers to investigate, prosecute and detain suspected terrorists.

Failures:
1. Failed to pass comprehensive health care reform.

2. Failed to pass comprehensive immigration reform.

3. Failed to pass a federal budget, resulting in multiple short-term continuing resolutions.

4. Failed to pass campaign finance reform, despite multiple attempts.

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BREAKING: POWELL RUNNING FOR POTUS


On January 28th, 2003, Colin Powell, the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, announced his candidacy for President in the 2004 election. After months of speculation and anticipation, he finally made the decision to run for the highest office in the United States.

The announcement was made in a speech before the National Press Club in Washington, DC. In his speech, Powell proclaimed “I have decided to run for President of the United States of America.” He went on to explain his reasons for running, citing his experiences in government service, military service, and global affairs as reasons why he felt he was well-suited to tackle the role of President.

Powell also discussed his desire for a “compassionate conservatism.” He explained that he wanted to create an environment that was “strong on defense, wise on fiscal matters, compassionate in our social policies, and unafraid of new ideas and new approaches.”

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BREAKING: CHAFEE TO MAKE '04 RUN FOR PRESIDENT


On February 20th, 2003, Senator Lincoln Chafee of Rhode Island announced his candidacy for the 2004 United States presidential election. Chafee, a centrist Republican, had a long history in both state and national politics. He was the son of John Chafee, a beloved and respected senator in his own right.

In his announcement speech, Chafee said “For too long, the American people have been plagued by Washington gridlock, a lack of bipartisan cooperation, and a focus on the politics of division. We must break this cycle and restore the spirit of optimism and unity that made this nation great.”

Chafee's candidacy is seen as an opportunity to bridge the gap between the right and the left of the political spectrum. His policies emphasize fiscal responsibility, environmental protection, and civil liberties. He's also sought to reduce the influence of money in politics, and increase transparency in government.

BREAKING: MCCAIN ENTERS 2004 FIELD


On March 4th, 2003, Senator John McCain announced his candidacy for the 2004 United States presidential election. Speaking to a crowd of supporters in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Senator McCain proclaimed, “Today I announce my candidacy for President of the United States of America.”

Senator McCain, a decorated Vietnam War veteran and long-time United States Senator from Arizona, had been contemplating a run for the White House for some time. Following the announcement, Senator McCain began an extensive campaign that included stops in nineteen states and many of the early primary contests.

Senator McCain’s announcement speech focused on themes of national security, economic prosperity, and government reform. He spoke of the need to rebuild America’s military power, to reduce wasteful government spending, and to restore the public’s faith in the government. Senator McCain declared, “I want to lead this country in a way that makes us proud of ourselves, not just in the present but in the future.”

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BREAKING: PAUL ANNOUNCES RUN FOR PRESIDENT


On March 11, 2003, Congressman Ron Paul of Texas announced his candidacy for President of the United States in 2004. In a rousing speech to supporters, he declared that "We must unite to restore the Constitution and return to the principles of limited government, fiscal responsibility, and a commitment to individual liberty."

The announcement came as no surprise to those familiar with Ron Paul's career. He had been a vocal advocate for limited government, fiscal responsibility, and individual liberty since first being elected to Congress in 1976. He was an early opponent of the Iraq War and had long advocated for a return to the principles of the Constitution.

Paul sought to bridge the gap between social conservatives and libertarians in his campaign. He advocated for an end to the war in Iraq and for a return to a more fiscally responsible government. He also sought to reduce the size of the federal government and to give more power to the states.

BREAKING: ROMNEY ANNOUNCES CANDIDACY


On April 13th, 2003, Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney announced his candidacy for President of the United States. In an emotional speech at the Massachusetts Statehouse, Governor Romney declared, “I am a conservative Republican, and I believe that America needs a strong leader who will bring us together and lead us to a better future.” He was immediately met with raucous applause and cheering from the crowd of supporters in attendance.

Romney, a relatively unknown in the political world, is running against a field of established candidates. He's sought to bring a unique perspective to the race, as a successful businessman and governor of one of the most liberal states in the country.

In his announcement, Romney outlined the core of his campaign platform – smaller government, tax cuts, and a strong national defense. He also addressed the issue of gay marriage, which had become a contentious issue in the state. Romney declared his support for a constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage, saying, “Marriage is a sacred institution between a man and a woman."

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BREAKING: CHENEY MAKES BID FOR PRESIDENCY


On April 25, 2003, former United States Secretary of Defense Dick Cheney announced his candidacy for President of the United States in the 2004 election.

In his announcement speech, Cheney said, “Today, I am honored and humbled to announce my candidacy for President of the United States. After much thought and prayer, I have decided to stand for the highest office in the land.”

The former Secretary of Defense's announcement came as a surprise to many. Cheney had retired from politics after serving as George W. Bush's running mate in 2000. His decision to re-enter the political arena was met with both enthusiasm and criticism.

Cheney supporters celebrated his candidacy, citing his experience in government and foreign affairs. They argued that Cheney was the ideal candidate to lead the country through a turbulent period. They believed that he would be the most qualified leader to protect the safety and security of the nation.

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First Republican Poll:
Colin Powell: 30.2% (+14.9%)
John McCain: 15.3%
Dick Cheney: 15.0%
Lincoln Chafee: 8.9%
Ron Paul: 5.9%
Mitt Romney: 4.1%
Undecided: 20.6

First General Election Poll:
Republicans: 50.2% (+11.8%)
(I) President Al Gore: 38.4%
Undecided: 11.4%

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2004 Iowa Caucus (32)
Lincoln Chafee: 27.6% (32)
John McCain: 22.6%
Colin Powell: 20.0%
Dick Cheney: 16.5%
Mitt Romney: 7.1%
Ron Paul: 6.2%

Post-Iowa Republican Poll:
Colin Powell: 34.2% (+20.1%)
John McCain: 14.1%
Dick Cheney: 13.6%
Lincoln Chafee: 7.0%
Ron Paul: 5.3%
Mitt Romney: 3.9%
Undecided: 21.9%

[President of the great nation of 🏳️‍⚧️]

Evangelicals for Chafee.

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2004 New Hampshire Primary (32)
Lincoln Chafee: 27.4% (9)
Colin Powell: 18.9% (7)
Ron Paul: 17.0% (6)
John McCain: 17.0% (6)
Dick Cheney: 11.4% (4)
Mitt Romney: 8.2%

Republican Delegate Count (1,252 needed to win)
Lincoln Chafee: 41 delegates
Colin Powell: 7 delegates
John McCain: 6 delegates
Ron Paul: 6 delegates
Dick Cheney: 4 delegates
Mitt Romney: 0 delegates

New Republican Poll:
Colin Powell: 31.3% (+17.3%)
John McCain: 14.0%
Dick Cheney: 12.4%
Lincoln Chafee: 11.4%
Ron Paul: 4.8%
Mitt Romney: 3.8%
Undecided: 22.3%

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BREAKING: POWELL WINS 3 STATES; CHENEY, MCCAIN, ROMNEY EACH WIN ONE

Republican Delegate Count (1,252 needed to win)
Colin Powell: 89 delegates
Dick Cheney: 62 delegates
John McCain: 57 delegates
Lincoln Chafee: 46 delegates
Mitt Romney: 43 delegates
Ron Paul: 7 delegates

BREAKING: PAUL DROPS OUT

Congressman Ron Paul of Texas announced his withdrawal from the Republican Party primary race for the 2004 Presidential Election. This marked the end of a passionate campaign that had spanned six months and captured the attention of many citizens.

In his official withdrawal speech, Congressman Paul said, “My decision to withdraw from the race for the Republican Party’s nomination for President is not an easy one. I have worked hard for the last six months to spread the message of limited government, fiscal responsibility, and personal liberty to the American people. I am proud of the effort we have made and the progress we have achieved.”

Paul stated that he had decided to end his campaign due to a lack of funds and the “realistic” chances of winning. He thanked his supporters for their “generous donations” and their “tireless volunteer efforts” on his behalf.

Although Congressman Paul dropped out of the 2004 GOP race, he remained a strong advocate for the principles of liberty, limited government, and fiscal responsibility. In his speech, he encouraged his supporters to continue their efforts in the election, regardless of their party affiliation.

New Republican Poll:
Colin Powell: 30.2% (+13.6%)
Lincoln Chafee: 16.6%
John McCain: 13.3%
Dick Cheney: 12.6%
Mitt Romney: 3.0%
Undecided: 24.3%

New General Election Poll:
Republicans: 53.0% (+11.8%)
(I) President Al Gore: 41.2%
Undecided: 5.8%

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BREAKING: POWELL WINS 6 CONTESTS; CHAFEE WINS ONE

Republican Delegate Count:
Colin Powell: 300 delegates
Lincoln Chafee: 88 delegates
Dick Cheney: 64 delegates
John McCain: 60 delegates
Mitt Romney: 44 delegates

BREAKING: CHENEY, MCCAIN, ROMNEY DROP OUT

Cheney’s decision to drop out of the race came as a surprise to many. After serving as Vice President in the Bush-Cheney Administration for four years, many thought Cheney would have made a strong candidate for President. However, Cheney ultimately decided to step aside in order to avoid splitting the Republican Party’s vote.

Governor Mitt Romney had been a popular candidate in the early stages of the race. He had a strong base of support and his business background was seen as a major asset. However, Romney’s campaign ultimately began to falter and he announced his withdrawal in February 2004.

Senator John McCain was also a major contender in the 2004 Republican primary race. He had a long and distinguished career in the Senate and was seen as a formidable opponent to the other candidates. However, McCain withdrew from the race in February 2004, citing a lack of campaign funds and a desire to focus on his Senate duties.

With Cheney, Romney, and McCain out of the race, the field was left to just two candidates: Colin Powell and Lincoln Chafee.

New Republican Poll:
Colin Powell: 33.6% (+9.3%)
Lincoln Chafee: 24.3%
Undecided: 42.1%

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2004 Nevada Republican Caucus (33)
Colin Powell: 62.8% (33)
Lincoln Chafee: 37.2%

2004 Washington DC Primary (19)
Lincoln Chafee: 70.2% (19)
Colin Powell: 29.8%

2004 Wisconsin Primary (40)
Colin Powell: 60.7% (40)
Lincoln Chafee: 39.3%

Republican Delegate Count (1,252 needed to win)
Colin Powell: 373 delegates
Lincoln Chafee: 107 delegates

New Republican Poll:
Colin Powell: 47.8% (+11.5%)
Lincoln Chafee: 36.3%
Undecided: 15.9%

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BREAKING: POWELL WINS 7 CONTESTS; CHAFEE WINS ONE

Republican Delegate Count:
Colin Powell: 977 delegates
Lincoln Chafee: 157 delegates

New Republican Poll:
Colin Powell: 53.0% (+20.2%)
Lincoln Chafee: 32.8%
Undecided: 14.2%

New General Election Poll:
Republicans: 53.0% (+9.9%)
(I) President Al Gore: 43.1%
Undecided: 3.9%

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BREAKING: POWELL WINS 6 CONTESTS; CHAFEE DROPS OUT, POWELL IS GOP NOMINEE

Republican Nomination Results:
Colin Powell: 1,322 delegates (56.1%)
Lincoln Chafee: 163 delegates (30.7%)
Dick Cheney: 64 delegates (3.2%)
John McCain: 60 delegates (6.7%)
Mitt Romney: 44 delegates (2.5%)
Ron Paul: 7 delegates (0.8%)

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BREAKING: POWELL PICKS FRIST AS RUNNING MATE

Former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Colin Powell, announced that he had selected Tennessee Senator Bill Frist as his running mate in his matchup against incumbent President Al Gore. The selection of Frist was seen by many as a bold move by Powell.

Frist, a heart and lung transplant surgeon, was first elected to the Senate in 1994 and was seen as a rising star in the Republican Party. He had earned a reputation as a moderate, reaching across the aisle to work with Democrats on issues such as healthcare reform. His medical background also gave him a certain degree of expertise on issues such as healthcare and medical research, which were important to Powell's campaign.

Powell's choice of Frist was seen as a way to try and bridge the gap between the conservative and moderate wings of the Republican Party. By selecting Frist, Powell was signaling to both sides that he was willing to work together and find common ground. It also showed that he was willing to reach outside of traditional political circles to find the best candidate for the job.

First General Election Poll
Colin Powell: 49.8% (+2.5%)
Al Gore: 47.3%
Undecided: 2.9%

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Final Election Results:
Colin Powell/Bill Frist: 64,631,088 (49.6%) (291 electoral votes)
Al Gore/Joe Lieberman: 63,779,981 (48.9%) (247 electoral votes)

BREAKING: GOP WINS SENATE AND HOUSE

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In this timeline......

- Al Gore picks Sen. Bob Graham as VP which helps seal Florida for him and also we add Ohio, Missouri and Tennessee as Gore 2000 states.
- Florida holds a Special Election to the US Senate in April 2001 that Mel Martinez wins and he gets re-elected in 2004.
- 9/11 still happens and President Gore sends the troops to Afghanistan and signs the PATRIOT Act but does not send troops to Iraq.
- Some time during 2003 another one or two attacks occur on major US cities similar to what happens in Madrid in 2004 and London in 2005. This certainly provides any Republican candidate for 2004 to make a big point of how America is not safe under President Gore and a big opportunity for any prospective candidate to win over voters.
- After a competitive primary in 2004 John McCain is chosen and he picks Rudy Giuliani as his running mate. The issue of keeping America safe becomes the dominant theme of the campaign.
- The election is close and provides a result almost identical to the real 2004 and Gore becomes a one-term president and President John McCain is sworn in to office with Vice President Rudy Giuliani.
- President McCain has a very hawkish foreign policy and sends troops to Iraq and Iran which become a failure and his response to Hurricane Katrina is deemed inadequate.
- The 2008 financial crisis still happens and we are back to the real world timeline of Obama beating McCain just like in the real 2008 but adding Missouri, Montana and the two Dakotas to his total.
- 2009 onwards is back to the real timeline.

Not unrealistic?