Out of the Blue: A President Reagan in '68 TL

[Historico]

By the end of the year, President Bradley along with the American people watched on their television sets as one of the most infamous symbols of the Cold War, was torn asunder before their very eyes. And once news came that President Mikhail Gorbachev supported the East Germans in their action, the Bradley Administration buzzed with enthusiasm over the idea that the leader of the Soviet Union was indeed interested in a new relationship with the West.  The two leaders met once more on the island of Malta and talks soon began to emerge of a possible end to the Cold War. Although little was actually accomplished in this first summit between Bradley and Gorbachev, they did make their positions known as Gorbachev stressed the need of US support in his attempt of Domestic Reform within the Soviet Union while Bradley cautiously promoted the need for Human Rights protection and arms control. Nevertheless, the talk was one of the first steps to see to it that America was led into a brave new world.


The Fall of he Berlin Wall

President Bradley welcomed the start of the last decade of the millennium with a newfound sense of optimism, as his Operation SMOKEOUT proved largely to be a success with the capture of Manuel Noriega within the first couple of weeks in January. On the 13th of January, Tom delivered a widely-acclaimed speech during the inauguration of the first elected Black Governor….Douglas Wilder of Virginia, whose 5 point margin of victory was largely seen as due to successful Bradley Presidency. Bentsen is also one of the responsible factors in pressuring State President Willem de Klerk, to make sure that his promise to release the imprisoned Nelson Mandela. After his release in February, President Bradley would urge his former colleagues in the Democratic-controlled congress to pass a bill to remove Mandela from the Terrorist Watch list, due to his former affiliation with the African National Congress. After months of rankling, the bill is passed during the summer of ’90, which President Bradley hailed as “A triumph in the war against Bigotry”. 


Anti-Apartheid Rally in South Africa c.a 1989

However, reality would soon sink in as the nation’s looming deficit problems would take center stage in the Bradley Administration in 1990. Grown largely due to the massive domestic programs initiated by President’s Kennedy, Finch and himself, Tom with a majority of his social agenda accomplished in his first term worked hard with his Treasury Secretary Rubin to try and help “Our Baby” as President Bradley called the spiraling. Bradley sent a proposal using a series of Tax cuts and curbs in Government spending in order to reduce the deficit by $500 Billion dollars over a span of five years. Although Bradley, although known for the most to part for his ability to reach a consensus within the congress, In an odd turn off events the President would find himself with the support of many House Republicans but found the proposal shot down by many members of the Democratic Majority Congress. House Democrats, who fundamentally believed that the only way to curb the deficit would be to raise taxes, which they could not bring themselves to support such a “flawed” plan. After months of deliberation, President Bradley would finally reach a compromise in the form of the Omnibus Reconciliation Act of 1990, which increased the marginal tax rate, but capped the capital gains rate at 28 percent. Although, Bradley lost a lot of support from Congressional Republicans who had supported the President due to his fiscal conservatism, he would gain more support back from within his own party due to the Reconciliation.

   Domestically, President Bradley would see to it that more federal spending be directed toward childcare, education and advanced technology research. But one of the most memorable laws signed into being that year would be the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. In a speech promoting the ADA, the 72 year old President declared that “The real reason we must pass this Act, is that all children are like quicksilver fountains…spilling over with tomorrows and tomorrows…and that is why…they remain richer than you and I.” Tom would also see to it that the 101st Congress pass his amendments to the Clean Air Act which added provisions for addressing acid rain, ozone depletion, toxic air pollution, reformulation of gasoline as well as emissions trading. With the retirement of liberal Justice, William Brennan, President Bradley sought out the appointment of District Judge Abraham David Sofaer to the seat. After a near unanimous decision by the Democratic Congress to approve Sofaer as the nation’s first Asian/Indian American Judge, which would see that the Cuomo Court continued to shift slowly toward the left in terms of balance.


First Asian/Indian American Associate Justice Abraham David Sofaer


   In June of 1990, President Bradley had another set of talks with that of Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev in their second three-day summit. With the main topic of the conversation being over that of a possible reunification of Germany in the near future especially with the obliteration of the Berlin Wall in ’89 and Communist rule being  almost nonexistent in East Germany. However, differences would soon became apparent over whether or not a new Germany would be permitted to join NATO as a member which the US supported and the USSR being afraid over a united and rearmed Germany were against. Gorbachev attempted to propose to Bradley a plan where Germany could join both NATO and the Warsaw Pact but fell on the Californian’s deaf ears. The Bradley administration also made it stance against Soviet aggression against the Lithuanian Independence and although no agreement was made on either Germany of Lithuania…President Bradley declared the meeting overall very positive and constructive.

   On August 2nd, 1990…Saddam Hussein launched a full invasion into the sovereign nation of Kuwait. The Iraqi Republican Guard easily overran Kuwait’s armed forces within two days, which prompted the US and Kuwaiti delegations to call to order on the UN Security council meeting. The UN swiftly demanded a full withdrawal of Iraqi forces, economic sanctions placed on Iraq and a full condemnation of Saddam’s actions. However, soon after his successful conquest of Kuwait, the nation of Saudi Arabia came under verbal attack from Saddam with the threats of possible invasion into the US Ally. A staunch supporter of the Brezinski Doctrine, President Bradley would see to it that Saudi Arabia be protected against a possible Iraqi invasion under the name of Operation Arabian Knight. Within the first weeks of August, almost 545,000 American troops would be deployed to Saudi Arabia, and largely thought off as one of the quickest Military Buildups in Recent history. Following the build up, the UN Security Council along with the Arab league would pass Resolution 678 giving Iraq a withdrawal deadline of January 15th, 1991 and the ability to enforce the Resolution by any means necessary. This would also be crucial as it would be seen as a defining moment in Secretary of State Jeane Kirkpatrick’s career as she assembled an impressive coalition of 34 countries united with the US against Iraq. Although many of the coalition’s members were reluctant to join, as they saw it as a interference in Arab affairs or feared increased American influence in Kuwait. Yet in the end, most of the nations were completely on board citing Secretary Kirkpatrick’s diplomatic skills and Iraq’s increasing belligerence toward other Arab states.

[Historico]

1990 US Congressional/Gubernatorial Elections

As increased tensions pushed the United States of America toward war with Iraq, a moment of celebration was heard from the Bradley administration upon hearing of the news of a reunified Germany in October. Despite Tom’s foreign policy achievements, domestically things were definitely not as peachy. Crime had risen to unprecedented levels in America’s cities due rising urban warfare due to the crack cocaine trade. Also the economy as a whole had showed sings of a significant lack of Growth. All these factors attributed to Congress being thrown back in the hands of the GOP. In the senate, Republicans were barely able to claim a majority as the number of seats shifted 51 to 49 in the favor. Important GOP pickups included Pat Saiki in Hawaii, Lynn Morely Martin in Illinois, Tom Tauke in Iowa, David Duke in Louisiana, Jim Rapport in Massachusetts and Christine Todd Whitman in New Jersey. Not all was dismal for the Democrats in the senate as two bright spots appeared in the form of former Professor Paul Wellstone on Minnesota who won a narrow victory over incumbent Republican Senator Rudy Boschwitz due to an innovative grassroots campaign. 1990 would also see the arrival of a new Black Senator in Harvey Gantt in North Carolina, who won the Democratic Nomination after Jim Hunt decided that he wasn’t seeking another term, was able to best the hate mongering Jesse Helms. In the House, Minority LeaderDick Cheney of Wyoming although wasn’t able to overtake Democratic Control made major infroads in the South, Rust Belt and the Midwest. The Gubernatorial elections yielded similar results with Republican wins by Pete Wilson in California, William Weld in Massachusetts, John Engler in Michigan, Arne Colson in Minnesota, George Voinovich in Ohio, David B. Frohnmayer in Oregon, and Richard A. Snelling in Vermont.  Democratic pick ups included Terry Goddard in Arizona, Lawton Chiles in Florida, Zell Miller in Georgia, Jesse Jackson in Illinois, Joan Finney in Kansas, Ben Nelson in Nebraska, and Ann Richards in Texas. The race was also memorable for the two Third Party pick ups; Joseph Hickel with the Alaskan Independent Party and Lowell Wiecker Jr. with the Connecticut Party.

[Historico]

Never Give Up: Part 2

   On January 17th 1991, at 7pm eastern standard time…The 73 year old President Tom Bradley announced over prime time television the activation of the United States Military against a belligerent Saddam Hussein. Operation SANDSTORM began as a series of Air Strikes which targeted both military and civilian center’s within in Iraq, including the capital city of Baghdad. In response to the assaults, Hussein declared that "The great duel, the mother of all battles has begun. The dawn of victory nears as this great showdown begins!” Saddam made good of his promise to attack the nation of Israel via Scud missiles, which were largely thought to be ineffective due Iraq’s close proximity to Israel. Secretary Kirkpatrick was infuriated by Saddam’s brashness against Israel and tried to convince both President Bradley and Prime Minister Yitzhak Shamir to give the green light to a full scale ground invasion into Iraq in order to depose the Dictator. However the Septuagenarians allowed for cooler heads to prevail, those heads largely lead by Secretary of Defense Ron Dellums. The Defense Secretary’s support of the conflict was always lukewarm, felt as if any Israeli retaliation would dramatically escalate the conflict and that although “It is true that Saddam needs to get his ass kicked, I also know that American citizens simply will not tolerate another quagmire."

   Secretary Kirkpatrick received her wish for a swift ground campaign a few weeks after the initial Aerial campaign as a massive coalition force led into Iraq. Iraqi military forces were largely outmatched by the advanced coalition’s might and any major threats were crushed and after a week of skirmishes, Kuwait had been effectively liberated. With the Operation’s initial goal accomplished, President Bradley ignored pressure on eliminating the Hussein regime and declared a ceasefire in April of ’91. Bradley in the aftermath of the swift victory in the Persian Gulf War would see his Approval Ratings skyrocket to 85% largely due to the Around the Flag effect. Tom’s postwar bump would be soon erased in the remaining year and half of his term. Issues such as the sluggish economy, debate over NAFTA and gridlock with a Republican Senate would cause the President’s approval ratings to be a poor 45% upon leaving office in January of 1993.


Photo Composite of Operation SANDSTORM

   On the economy, the burden of the Kennedy/Finch/Bradley era’s domestic programs had taken its toll on the Free Market. While Unemployment was at an all time low, largely due to the success of the Full Employment Ac, American Business had struggled in competition into the larger abundance of Government Jobs. This trend of suboptimal growth had arguably been apparent since the mid ’80’s but combined with the High tax rates, Growing federal deficit and postwar inflation made a perfect storm for the GOP to use as a target issue against the Bradley Presidency. Yet, the biggest fight between Bradley and the Republican Senate would be over the North Atlantic Free Trade Agreement. Championed by Senate Majority Leader George H.W. Bush, NAFTA promised to eliminate many of the tariffs on goods and services traded between Canada, Mexico and the United States. However the treaty lacked any provision over Labor Rights, which caused many Democrats including President Bradley, despite his pro-business roots, were worried about the loss of American Jobs and unhinging of the Immigration debate. After a series of talks with Secretary of Labor Robert P. Casey, Secretary of Commerce Ralph Nader and former SOL Lane Kirkland, President Bradley announced that “I will not stand for any treaty that will threaten the livelihood of the American Worker here at home or abroad.” The Administration’s strong stance against NAFTA was particularly disheartening for Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney and President Carlos Salinas of Mexico, but they were reassured by Senator Bush that “Although we may have to wait for a year or two, I promise you I will do all in my power to see that this Treaty is passed. “

   A snowball effect took place in the Soviet Union, which started in February of 1990 when the Communist Party of the Soviet Union relinquished its hold over the political climate over Eurasia. Fifteen constituent-led, and covertly-baked United States backed, Republics emerged to rapidly change the worsening Soviet Economy. Gorbachev with the advice of President Bradley decided to push the Soviet Union toward decentralization. A failed coup attempt of the Gorbachev regime, by Soviet Hardliners in August was also crushed but nonetheless was viewed as more paint on the wall for the end of the USSR. By December of 1991, After Ukraine opted for Independence via plebiscite, the Soviet Union dissolved, and Mikhail Gorbachev resigned the office of President of the USSR. In a Watershed ceremony Gorbachev handed over the reigns of power to newfound President Boris Yeltsin of Russia on Christmas Day, 1991. After a suggested period of “Trust but Verify” instructed to him by Secretary Kirkpatrick, NSA Rice and Secretary Dellums, President Bradley would call President Yeltsin personally to congratulate Yeltsin and promised that the American Government will do everything in its reaches to ensure Eurasia made the transformation to a free Democratic Society after nearly 70 years of Communist rule.



President Boris Yeltsin of Russia during the 1991 failed Coup.

   With the end of the Cold War, Victory in the Persian Gulf Conflict and new Domestic Reforms, President Bradley looked forward to 1992, as the final year of his Presidency. Due to Tom having severed 2 years and 9 months of President Finch’s unfinished second term, Bradley was ineligible to run for another term. One of the biggest surprises of his final year was the sudden death of Associate Justice Thurgood Marshall on January 24th 1992 of heart failure. The First African American to sit on the bench, Marshall was most known for his jurisprudence regarding the fields of criminal procedure and civil rights. To replace Marshall’s vacated seat, President Bradley originally wanted former Representative Barbara Jordan of Texas to fill her seat, yet she declined citing her advanced multiple sclerosis. Bradley would nominate former Attorney General Roger Wilkins of Virginia on February 28th 1992. An expert in the legal field of Civil Rights, Wilkins had started his stellar rise as Assistant AG in the Johnson Administration of the ‘60’s. With no illegalities being found, Wilkins was confirmed as an Associate Justice on March 4th 1992.


former Attorney General Roger Wilkins...Second African American Associate Justice

   Unfortunately, the perceived progress caused by the Bradley soon melted away following the acquittal of four Los Angeles Police officers after their involvement in the videotaped beating of an African American man on August 29th 1992. Bradley was forced to remember his time as LA City Councilman, as the city of Angels became literally became Hell-A. Governor Pete Wilson demanded for federal troops to be sent into the city to restore order, yet President Bradley hesitated as he truly believed that the entry of more troops would only incite more violence. After the riots spread to other major American Cities such as New York City, Chicago, Detroit, Atlanta, New Orleans and Houston, President Bradley finally capitulated and sent in federally trained riot officers and military units on September 4th. After several days, the Urban Riots had successfully been crushed, resulting in the deaths of over 550 people across America, and billions of dollars worth of property damage. President Bradley due to the slow response to the riots was seen as apprehensive and confused in his old age thus, his approval dropped to a dismal 35 %.


Photo Composite of the 1992 Urban Riots

   President Tom Bradley would use the last of his political capital on the Domestic Front to see that the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1992 was pushed through Congress. The Amendments proposed Acid Rain mitigation, emissions trading, potential solution to the rapid ozone depletion and toxic Land/Water/Air pollution, and established a national Cap and Trade program. Once Passed on December 4th, CAA also brought in new auto gasoline reformulation requirements, set Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) standards to control evaporative emissions from gasoline and mandated that the new gasoline formulations be sold from May-September in many states. The success of the Act pushed up the 41st President’s final approval ratings to around 45%. In his Farwell address to the nation, the 75 year old President said, “For Generations, People cut themselves off from their ties of the old world when they ventured to this beautiful nation that we call America. They are looking for a place where they can be free, where they can do things they couldn't do anywhere else and most importantly to Love and Respect one another despite any differences between them. I am now prepared to pass the torch to new leadership.”


President Tom Bradley giving his Farwell Address to the nation.

[Historico]

What was the national popular vote? Which were the closest states? Do you think you could please break it down state by state?
[/quote]

Maybe not state by state yet, i might go back and do a few County maps once Im finished with the TL. The National Popular bote was probably around 35% Bradley, 33 % Baker, 20% Paul. All the states that correlated 30 to 40 based on Dave's scale, were pretty close states so all in all, I would say around 9 ridicuosly close states. Does annyone else have an Questions, comments, or concerns about my latest installment?

[Historico]

Passing of the Torch:The 1992 US Presidential Election

The 1992 Democratic Nomination

   Due to President Bradley having served two years and nine months of the late Cliff Finch’s term, Tom was ineligible to run for another term. Vice President Birch Bayh officially announced his candidacy to seek the Democratic Nomination for President on July 4th 1991 during a Victory Rally for Gulf War Veterans in New York City. One of the last New Deal/Great Society Liberals, Bayh instantaneously held the support of Labor, Minorities, and the Party Elders. Largely due to the close working relationship with President Bradley, Birch was seen by many as the craftsman behind much of Bradley domestic Agenda. The Vice President received stirring endorsements from many politicians, which were seen as potential challengers to the nomination. Important figures included; Senator Tom Harkin of Iowa, Governor Bruce Babbitt of Arizona, Senator Bob Kerrey of Nebraska, Governor Douglas Wilder of Virginia, Senator Paul Tsongas of Massachusetts, Governor Bill Clinton of Arkansas and Representative Pat Schroeder of California all threw their support behind the 64 year old former Senator from Indiana.


Vice President Birch E. Bayh II on the Campaign Trail in Iowa.

   However, the road to New York City for the Convention would not be paved with gold for the Vice President. Two major Challengers would emerge from two growing sides of the Party. The first to announce their candidacy on April 30th 1991, was that of former Governor Jerry Brown of California. Due to his early nature into the campaign, Brown was able to paint himself as the true populist candidate, and counted a surging grassroots campaign that pledged to “take back America from the confederacy of corruption, careerism, and campaign consulting in Washington.” His push for Congressional term limits, living wage and a flat tax was immensely popular in the Midwest, yet seen by many in the South as a leftwing extremist. To represent the New DLC, or moderate to conservative Democrats, Senator Sam Nunn of Georgia announced his candidacy on October 14th 1991. Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Nunn largely ran against Bayh due to his perceived weakness on foreign policy. Nunn’s support of School Prayer, a balanced budged amendment, pro-death penalty and vote against the Sexual Orientation Act of 1987 made him popular in his home region. However his pro-choice, pro-gun control and pro affirmative action made him palatable to liberal voters in the Northeast. Primary voters were essentially battled over the idea of significant change or to stay the current course of the administration.


Senator Sam Nunn of Georgia in an Interview on Meet The Press

   The battle for the control and the future of the Democratic Party came from within America’s Heartland in the state of Iowa. After all three candidates campaigned heavily in the state; the results out of Iowa foreshadowed the brawl which would ensnare the nation for the following six months. Jerry Brown’s long time investment into the food capital of the world, proved successful with a staggering 60% victory margin with Bayh and Nunn both tied at 20%. Seeing little chance for victory in the Northeast, Senator Nunn focused his efforts on the friendlier March primaries. Thus Bayh and Brown would hunker down in the granite state attempting to attract liberal democrats and Independents. Jerry Brown would showcase Vice President Bayh as the consummate Washington Insider, while Birch Bayh focused on promoting his record as he was quoted as having said “Jerry talks a good talk, but has he ever actually fought for the reform that he speaks of?” Birch Bayh concentrated on his authoring of the 25th and 26th Amendments, Sponsorship of the ERA, Push for Electoral College Reform and the Bayh-Dole Act as his chief achievements. On February 18th, Vice President Bayh won a narrow victory over Jerry Brown with a 53 to 47 % margin, largely due Birch’s stronger sense presidential stature. Vice President Bayh would capitalize on the momentum coming of the New Hampshire Primary, along with the help of his friend former Senator George McGovern to win a resounding victory in South Dakota on February 25th.


Former Governor Jerry Brown of California's Campaign Bumper Sticker.

   Vice President Bayh’s campaign would be dealt a major blow on the round of primaries on March 3rd. Senator Nunn’s focus on the March Primaries would prove not to be in vain with a crushing win in his home state of Georgia, along with a close 45 to 40 margin of victory over Birch Bayh in the state of Maryland. The reform-minded populist would also walk away with a not to surprising win in Colorado. Nunn followed his success four days later with another strong win in the state of South Carolina. All the candidates looked toward the upcoming “Super Tuesday” Contests as a way of being able to break away from their essentially tied delegate totals. However, due to the nature of the design, Senator Nunn would win the most victories on March 10th, as he gained Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas. Vice President Bayh would only walk away with the states of Delaware, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Jerry Brown’s pursuit for drastic reform turned off many Southern Voters, thus costing him to walk out of “Super Tuesday” empty handed. Despite Nunn’s newfound delegate lead, many of the Party’s leadership were reluctant to leave the Vice President. Their continued supported resulted in Birch Bayh’s commanding wins in his home region of the Rust Belt on March 17th in Illinois and Michigan. Birch followed his success with a close victory over Jerry on March 24th in the Nutmeg State of Connecticut.

   As the primary season rolled into its third month of April, no one was exactly sure who would win the nomination. Vice President Bayh’s string of victories in March encroached on Sam Nunn’s southern delegation lead, with Jerry Brown not to far behind. Yet as the results from April 7th showed, the candidates continued to trade victories, with Brown wins in Kansas and Wisconsin, with comfortable Bayh wins in Minnesota and New York. All three candidates spent the next few remaining weeks campaigning hard in the keystone state as they sparred for White Working Class and Blue collar votes. On April 28th, Pennsylvania went to Birch Bayh on 45% margin with Brown in Second with 30% and Nunn with 25% of the vote. As went Pennsylvania so did the rest of the nation start to trend back toward the Vice President, as questions over Brown and Nunn’s elect-ability were continuously raised. The May 5th primaries brought Bayh, the District of Columbia as well as his home state of Indiana, with Senator Nunn carrying North Carolina as expected. Jerry Brown scored another win in Nebraska on May 12th, with a close win for Birch Bayh over Sam Nunn in West Virginia. The Washington and Oregon primaries went for the regional favorite sun in Jerry Brown on May 19th. A week later on May 26th, Sam Nunn’s campaigned showed that he was still viable with a win in Arkansas and a narrow loss to Vice President Bayh in Kentucky. With an ever surmounting lead over Brown and Nunn due to the Vice President’s strong victories in the Big States such as New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois and Michigan, Bayh possessed significant momentum coming into the last week of primaries in June. On June 2nd, New Jersey, New Mexico and Ohio all fell to Bayh, while Nunn won the consolation prize of Alabama and Brown walked away with Montana and a narrow victory in his home state of California.

Final 1992 Democratic Primary Results

   

[Historico]

Senator Sam Nunn understood that any chance to win the nomination was slim to none, and that his Southern Delegation would never support a perceived radical like Jerry Brown. In Bismarck, North Dakota, Senator Nunn met with the Vice President and informed Bayh that he would officially end his campaign and offer a stirring endorsement only if he would pick a Southern Moderate to balance the ticket. Birch Bayh agreed, and at a massive unity rally on June 9th, Senator Nunn declared “That although my campaign now must come to end, I urge for those who supported me to show that same love to the Vice President. I have worked with Birch Bayh for the last twenty years, and despite some agreements we’ve had throughout those years, I know he will continue to fight for You as President as he has done for the last forty years!.” Sam Nunn withdrawal from the race ensured a Bayh victory in the state later that night. Jerry Brown however, refused to suspend his campaign, and told his supporters that he would fight all the way to the convention floor. In the month of June, Vice President Bayh released his shortlist for Vice President; Names on the list where Senator Al Gore of Tennessee, Governor Bill Clinton of Arkansas, former Governor Martha Layne Collins of Kentucky, Senator Bob Graham of Florida, Senator Jim Folsom Jr. of Alabama and Governor Douglas Wilder of Virginia.


   The 1992 Democratic National Convention was held at Madison Square Garden, New York City from August 17th and August 20th, and was portrayed by Convention Co-Chairpersons Ron Brown and Ann Richards as the party of Victory, Virtue and Values. The first day of the Convention, Vice President Bayh unveiled his choice for his running mate in…Governor Bill Clinton of Arkansas. The 45 year old, with over a decade of executive experience as Chief Executive in Arkansas, seemed to exuberate with personal charisma and had the record of modernizing the Natural State with reforms to back it up. Delegates on the convention floor rallied behind the ticket, which solidified Nunn’s former Southern Supporters to line up behind the Vice President. Jerry Brown and his supporters, were determined to show that that Party was anything but unified especially after requests for his name to be placed into Nomination where denied by the Party leadership. For the first time since 1968, a faction of the Democratic Party walked out of the Convention as former Governor Jerry Brown with some of his more hard-line supporters rejected the Bayh/Clinton ticket. Vice President Bayh refused to let Brown ruin his convention, and in his acceptance address “America in this time of transition in 1992, needs a President who is less concerned that too many jobs will cause inflation, as the Republican Party would have you to believe, and more concerned that too few jobs will cause human suffering!”


Governor William J. "Bill" Clinton of Arkansas in his Vice Presidential Acceptance Address

[Historico]

The 1992 Republican Nomination


   After the close lose of former Vice President Baker in the 1988 Election, many within the GOP had begun to point the fingers at one another as the reason to blame for Baker’s loss. Many within the moderate wing of the party blamed the insurgent Ron Paul Libertarian Campaign for splitting traditional Republican votes in the Rust Belt. However, the growing Social Conservative/Moral Majority wing of the Republican Party believed that the former Vice President wasn’t conservative enough for Voters in those crucial swing states. Whatever the reason, all sides of the Republican Party understood that the ’92 election was highly favored, and they were determined to front a candidate that represented their vision of America. The first to announce was that of former Governor and Daughter of the 37th President…Maureen Reagan of California on May 2nd 1991. Maureen was seen as the ultimate compromise between the Goldwater Libertarian wing and the Vestiges of the Rockefeller Republican factions of the party. Her strong record as an Anti-Tax, Law and Order, and Pro-Health Care Reform made Maureen increasingly attractive to Yuppies as well as the traditional Big-Business base of the Party. Due to Maureen’s perceived ability to win the delegate rich-states necessary to clinch the nomination in the Republican’s Winner-Take-All primary design, she received endorsements by many former and potential candidates. Names included; 1988 Nominee Howard Baker of Tennessee, Representative Jack Kemp of New York, Senate Majority Leader George H.W. Bush of Texas , Governor Big Jim Thompson of Illinois, former President John Volpe of Massachusetts, former Governor Pete du Pont of Delaware, Senator Nancy Kassebaum of Kansas and of course that of her father…former President Ronald Reagan.


former Governor Maureen Reagan of California at a fundraising dinner.


   Whereas the Moderate/Libertarian Coalition rallied behind the candidate in the former Governor, The Conservative wing of the Party was split on a regional level. On August 10th, Senator Steve Symms of Idaho announced his candidacy on June 10th on the Senate Floor, much to the surprise of his colleagues. Symms would run as the classic Midwestern fiscal conservative, as he resurrected his classic 1972 Congressional campaign theme of an apple farm. Symms Campaign paraphernalia all featured a drawing of a big red Apple along with slogan “Take a bite out of Big Government!” The Idaho Senate gained endorsements from; Senator Bob Dole of Kansas, 1984 Nominee Bob Kasten of Wisconsin, Representative Dick Cheney of Wyoming, and Senator Larry Pressler of South Dakota. The second conservative candidate to throw their hat into the ring was that of six-year, South Carolina Governor Carroll Campbell Jr. With the loss of his dear friend and former 1988 Baker Campaign Manager, Lee Atwater due to complications of Brain cancer, Campbell was initially very reluctant to run. In November 1991, Campbell was finally convinced by his friends and family to announce his candidacy. The South Carolina Governor chose former Reagan Speechwriter and Crossfire Commentator Buchanan to run his primary campaign. Carroll Campbell ran on a platform of “Strong Christian Values, Economic Nationalism, Immigration reduction and Education-Reform.” Despite his relatively late entry into the race, Governor Campbell set fire on the campaign trail, especially in the South where he attracted voters frightened by the Nation’s growing multiculturalism, openness to Abortion and expanded Gay Rights. The three way race between Reagan, Symms, and Campbell was sure to be on for the ages.

   The GOP’s first contest was that of the Iowa Caucus, a state where all three candidates spent through the holiday season making their voices heard. As the results came in on February 10th, it was clear that Senator Symms won a plurality of the vote only taking about 38%, with Reagan a close second with 36% and with Campbell taking 25% of the vote. The relatively close loss was billed by both the Reagan and Campbell campaign was due to Symms’ home field advantage. Two day’s later on February 12th; The Granite state would go solidly for their fellow “Rockefeller Republican” in Maureen Reagan with 54%, followed by Symms at 30% and Campbell at 16%. South Dakota was awarded to Senator Steve Symms on February 25th with an impressive 55 % of the vote. Governor Campbell’s persistence finally paid off, with a strong victory in Georgia on March 3rd, which was traded for Maureen Reagan’s close victories in Colorado and Maryland (To Symms and to Campbell respectively). Neither Reagan nor Symms would actively campaign in Campbell’s home state South Carolina, thus the states delegation would be awarded to Campbell at a 90% margin on March 7th. With the race still essentially tied at this early stage of the campaign, there was no perceived front runner in the race as of yet.


Senator Steve Symms of Idaho on the Campaign trail in South Dakota.

   It would be in the lead up the “Super Tuesday” Primary contests that the race for the 1992 Republican Nomination would take a particularly negative turn. Ads made by affiliates of the Campbell campaign were released, featuring several women discussing past sexual relations with Senator Steve Symms while his time in office. These claims were rebuffed by the Symms’ campaign as your classic mudslinging and nothing more. However a Salon Magazine Article, was released after the allegations were made public, which crushed any chance that Symm’s had at the nomination. The article reported that “gained something of a sexual legend over his eight years in the House that grew larger once he was in the Senate; it was widely known among reporters that he was a big-time D.C. party animal and could be seen most evenings in the company of a woman other than his wife, Fran. She in fact was a kind, sweet woman who suffered terribly from arthritis and couldn't socialize much. Most of the state's political reporters knew about the situation but figured it was no one's business unless Symms made it an issue.” Despite the unveiling of his rocky social life, Symms was determined to stay in the race until at least “Super Tuesday”. On March 10th, Governor Campbell won the majority of the states, as he racked up Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas. Former Governor Reagan only walked away with Delaware, Hawaii, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. On March 11th, with his campaign low on funds, mired in scandal and with only two primary victories, Senator Steve Symms of Idaho officially ended his campaign without endorsing either former Governor Reagan or Governor Campbell.


Governor Carroll Campbell Jr. of South Carolina.

[Historico]

   With Carroll Campbell leading Maureen Reagan to total state’s one 13 to 7, the former California desperately needed to win both Illinois and Michigan on March 17th to remain a viable candidate. The Buchanan machine having successfully ended the Symms campaign hoped to the same to Reagan’s. Ad’s painted Maureen as the new Madame Deficit, as despite her strong achievements in California, the Golden state was also faced a billion dollar deficit due to her high government spending during her term as Governor. Maureen Reagan was determined to not go quietly into that good night, and ratcheted up her own attacks against the Governor. She and campaign manager former Governor Robert H. Finch painted Campbell as the virtual dictator of South Carolina, who virtually suppressed any other Republican politician’s ambitions if they weren’t in his political circles. Reagan also called Campbell out questionable record on Civil Rights and several Anti-Semite comments he had made in past campaigns. However, largely due to the attractiveness’ of Maureen’s strong law and order platform in the crime-ridden states of the rust belt, as well as the high esteem held for her father, Maureen was able to pick both Illinois and Michigan on fairly comfortable margins. The final March primary on the 24th in Connecticut also produced a strong win for the campaign.

   The 3rd of month of the campaign brought with it the now infamous debate between former Governor Reagan and Governor Campbell at Columbia University on the lead up on the eve of the April 7th string of Primaries. During the debate; Governor Campbell attacked Reagan on her Pro-Choice, and Pro-NAFTA stances and that she did not represent the same values of the traditional working class. However, Carroll Campbell would also press the nail in his own coffin, when after the moderator asked the Governor “If elected President would you seek the advice from past Secretaries of States such as Edward Brooke, Zbigniew Brzezinski, and Henry Kissinger?” to which Campbell replied “Yes, If elected President I would seek council from Mr. Brooke and Mr. Brzezinski but as for Mr. Kissinger…I could not receive advice from anyone who hasn’t accepted Jesus Christ as their personal lord and savior.” Many in the Audience and in living rooms across America were appalled by the South Carolinian’s comment, however, Maureen Reagan quickly responded “You’re right about one thing Governor, and that is that I do not share any values with any Americans that preach Intolerance and Ignorance.” Reagan’s strong rebuttal was praised by the Jewish Community which delivered her almost a full sweep, as received Minnesota, New York, and Wisconsin. Governor Campbell despite the major gaffe during the Debate barely edged a win in Kansas. Despite her Pro-Globalization stance, White Working Class voter’s still chose Maureen Reagan as their champion, as she won a resounding victory in the Pennsylvania on April 28th.

   Maureen Reagan led Campbell 14 to 13 in total states won and with polls showing less favorability for the Governor due to his Anti-Semitic remarks; many pundits felt the former Governor had achieved Presumptive Nominee status. The final phase brought first the May 5th Primaries, in which Reagan cemented her lead with wins in the District of Columbia and the Hoosier state of Indiana. Governor Campbell, not to anyone’s surprise picked up his sister state of North Carolina. However was that of Governor Campbell’s narrow victory in Nebraska over Reagan who in turn survived a squeaker in West Virginia on May 12th showed that Campbell still had some apparent clout. A week later, Maureen crushed Carroll in her home region states of Oregon and Washington on April 19th. The final round of May Primaries, held on the 26th also saw two more victories for Governor Campbell with Arkansas and Kentucky, with former Governor Reagan walking away with only Idaho…Senator Symm’s home state.

Governor Campbell would finally see the preverbal writing on the wall during the “Mini Tuesday” round of Primaries on June 2nd as Reagan took Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, Ohio and of course her home state of California. His last victory would be in Alabama during “Mini Tuesday” although he did have a rather strong performance in Reagan’s win of North Dakota on June 9th. With the primary season officially ended, Maureen Reagan had more than enough delegates to win the nomination. Carroll Campbell was Low on Cash, Support outside the South/Midwest virtually shattered, and physically exhausted…The South Carolina Governor ended his campaign on June 10th. In his concession speech, Campbell said that he “would have to wait and see who Reagan picks as her Running mate before endorsement.” Later in the month of June, Maureen Reagan released her short list for Vice President, which names included Senator Kit Bond of Missouri, Senate Majority Leader George H.W. Bush of Texas, Senator John Warner of Virginia, Senator Bob Dole of Kansas, former Governor Lamar Alexander of Tennessee, and Representative Jack Kemp of New York.

Final 1992 Republican Primary Results


   The 1992 Republican National Convention was held in the Astrodome from July 13th to July 16th  in Houston, Texas. “Change” was the major theme of the campaign, and that after 12 years of Democratic administration; the nation was ready to see what the other side of the isle had to offer. After such a divisive and particularly nasty primary season, both Senator Steve Symms and Governor Carroll Campbell were given prime time speaking spots as well as an a roll call vote for the nomination. Former Governor Maureen Reagan unveiled her choice for Vice President during the 1st day of the convention…Senator John Warner of Virginia. One of the last of the “Greatest Generation” Senators, Warner filled the role of an elder statesman to balance Reagan’s considerable lack of foreign policy experience, and former Secretary of Navy during her father’s administration. John Warner’s moderate-to-conservative views on social issues complimented Maureen’s own views on many issues and most of Campbell’s Supporters rallied behind her pick. Although she was to become the First Female nominated for President by either Major Party, Carroll Campbell somewhat stole the spotlight in his primetime speech written by Pat Buchanan, in which would be now termed The Culture War Speech… “The agenda Bayh & Clinton is the same one that Kennedy,Finch and Bradley mposed on America — abortion on demand, a litmus test for the Supreme Court, homosexual rights, discrimination against religious schools, women in combat units — all for the sake of change, It was change all right. But it is not the kind of change America needs. It is not the kind of change America wants. And it is not the kind of change we can abide in a nation we still call God's country.”  However, in her acceptance would quell any notion that the GOP would shift the nation to the hard right, in which she said “My dream is that we will all travel the road ahead with liberty's lamp guiding our steps and opportunity's arm steadying our way. My fondest hope for each one of us—and especially for the young people here—is that we shall always, love our country, and love our fellow man no matter what differences we may share. May all of us have the heart to conceive, the understanding to direct, and the hand to execute works that will make the world a little better for us having been here.”


Senate Majority Leader George H.W. Bush of Texas giving the Keynote Address

[Historico]

The 1992 US General election.

   Yet the biggest surprises to both parties would come on February 20th 1992 in the form of a tiny yet ever boisterous Texan Billionaire named H. Ross Perot announced his candidacy for President live on CNN’s Larry King Live. Perot established a unique platform which encompassed of a balanced budget, protectionism, pro-choice, War on Drugs escalation, Anti-gun control, and social security cutbacks. The Texan’s major focus would be to incite his massive Grassroots campaign, largely funded from his own massive fortune to try to get himself on the ballot in all 50 states. Throughout the spring, Perot’s campaign found a receptive audience, with voters turned off of by the nasty primary races featured by both parties; Perot naturally filled the void of the charismatic populist who stood steadfast in his crusade against the Establishment. By June of 1992, after both Vice President Bayh and former Governor Reagan won their parties respective nominations, initial polling had Perot in the lead with 35%, Reagan with 30%, Bayh with 25% and Undecided voters making up 10%. However; July proved to be the most crucial month in the campaign for Perot, as after the disastrous Democratic Convention in New York, met with Bayh primary rival, former Governor Jerry Brown of California, to discuss some type of endorsement. After speculation that Perot might choose former Vice Admiral James Stockdale, Representative Jack Kemp or Senator Warren Rudman as his running mate, On August 29th, Perot unveiled his choice in Los Angeles California…Edmund G. “Jerry” Brown Jr. The Perot/Brown Ticket was held as the most impressive seen in years, despite their backgrounds from opposite sides of the isles, as both strived to bring true reform to Washington


Time Cover Featuring Texan Billionaire H. Ross Perot after his annoucement into the Race.


   However, Perot/Brown’s poll numbers took a major hit, as the Reagan/Warner ticket received the biggest post-convention boost in American History, as Maureen lead Ross 45% to 30% with Birch holding steady with about 25%. The major issue of the campaign would be that of the sluggish economy and the high deficit/tax burden on the American People after 12 years of Democratic Administration. As a solution to nation’s economic woes, former Governor Reagan introduced a package proposals derived from Chicago School/Supply-Side Economics, as she stressed the need for economic growth, free trade, free markets, and lowered tax rates. Reagan would also be the first Republican candidate in years; to challenge Democratic support in the minority community as she resurrected the idea of Free Enterprise zones to help the decaying inner cities, as well as supported an Amnesty program for Immigrants who had crossed into the nation illegally. Vice President Bayh much to the dismay of his running mate decided to stick with a “Stay the Course” strategy and declared that the Bradley administration was sending to Congress a massive Stimulus package to jolt the economy via that contained mostly public works programs as well as new funding into NASA, University Grants, and Alternative Energy technologies. Ross Perot was slow initially to come up with strong policy proposals, but most of which designed strictly based on a deficit reducing basis including cuts to some of the major Kennedy/Finch/Bradley era Domestic Programs. However, Ross’ innovative infomercial-like campaign ads proved highly popular with the American people, with one night bringing in 10.5 Million viewers.


Republican Vice Presidential Nominee John Warner on the stump for Maureen Reagan   

All three campaigns understood that their respective performances in the debates could make or break their election chances. With Ross Perot officially qualifying for all 50 states by late September, both Vice President Bayh and former Governor Reagan felt it was necessary for the American People to hear all of the viewpoints. There were to be 4 Debates, One being the Vice Presidential Debate, Three Presidential debates with one being over Domestic Policy, Foreign Policy then a Town-Hall format. The first Debate was held on October 11th with the topic between Bayh, Perot and Reagan being over domestic issues. Both Bayh and Perot would hammer former Governor Reagan on her staunch support of NAFTA, with Perot being quoted as saying “If NAFTA is indeed passed, you will hear a giant sucking sound down south.” Vice President Bayh’s consummate knowledge of Domestic Affairs seemed to pay off as he was considered the winner of the debate by a majority of viewers. The Vice Presidential debate was held on October 13th, and covered a wide variety of issues. The debate itself would be memorable mainly due to former Governor Brown’s viscous attack of Governor Clinton on his character issues mainly due to newfound reports of Womanizing, past Marijuana usage, accusations of draft dogging and a failed Real estate venture called Whitewater. However, Senator John Warner seemed elevated above Brown and Clinton squabbling, to easily win the debate with his wisdom and experience. The Second Debate over Foreign Policy was seen a slight win surprisingly for former Governor Maureen Reagan as she seemed well prepared and had studied well under the guidance of her Running Mate’s particularly expertise. The last Debate was held on October 19th and was that of the town-hall format, and with that being said the populist in Perot did well in his response to viewer’s questions on a variety of issues. Post-Debate polling had Reagan still in the lead with 35%, Bayh and Perot essentially tied with at 25% with 15% unsure.


Independent VP Nominee Jerry Brown and Democratic VP Nominee Bill Clinton before the Vice Presidential Debate

   After news erupted about the Clinton’s financial dealings with the Whitewater company as well increased number of Brown’s eccentricities held Reagan’s slight lead going into Election night. As the results came in on the night of November 3rd, the questions of who would be the nation’s 42nd President were still uncertain. Recounts had to be done in Washington, Oregon, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, Vermont, Wyoming, Kansas, Missouri, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maine. Yet by the end of the week, with offical votes tallied former Governor Maureen Reagan would be sworn in as the nation’s First Female and 42nd President. Both Vice President Birch Bayh and Ross Perot gave gracious concession speeches and promised to support the new President.

[COLOR="Blue"]Maureen Reagan/John Warner: 294 Electoral Votes[/COLOR]
[COLOR="Red"]Birch E. Bayh II/William J. Clinton: 156 Electoral Votes[/COLOR]
[COLOR="Green"]H. Ross Perot/Edmund G. Brown Jr.: 88 Electoral Votes[/COLOR]


Maureen Reagan's Victory Celebration in Los Angeles, California.

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

I'm not suprised with a Republican victory, given the fact Democrats were in power for straight 12 years.

Sad thing Jerry would be probably finished after his insurgent bid with Perot

Looking forward the other Reagan presidency. Keep it going, Historico

[Historico]

I'm not suprised with a Republican victory, given the fact Democrats were in power for straight 12 years.

Sad thing Jerry would be probably finished after his insurgent bid with Perot

Looking forward the other Reagan presidency. Keep it going, Historico

Thanks for the Reply Kal, As for Jerry after researching his platform(I was like two during the real '92 race lol), I actually don't know why Perot didn't want him as his running mate, as they real camapigned on the same issues and platform. Plus he would have possibly been able to swing California's lionshire of electoral votes his way, as well as being a democrat, with true executive expierence would have been alot better than crazy old Stockdale....Any other Comments, thoughts, ideas or suggestions?

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

I got few question. What's are later whereabouts ITTL of former candidates such as Al Gore, Joe Biden, Dick Gephardt, Barry Goldwater Jr., Ron Paul, Andre Marrou, Nancy Kassebaum and Thomas Kean?

Just curious

[Psychic Octopus]

Why aren't more republicans reading this? I find this fascinating. I'm a little disappointed that we saw another Kennedy death, and a little surprised at the Maureen Reagan presidency, but thi is a great TL!

[Historico]

I got few question. What's are later whereabouts ITTL of former candidates such as Al Gore, Joe Biden, Dick Gephardt, Barry Goldwater Jr., Ron Paul, Andre Marrou, Nancy Kassebaum and Thomas Kean?

Just curious

Don't Worry, Kal I got you covered...I plan on doing a huge Where Are The Now Segment once I actually get finished with this TL lol.

[Historico]

Why aren't more republicans reading this? I find this fascinating. I'm a little disappointed that we saw another Kennedy death, and a little surprised at the Maureen Reagan presidency, but thi is a great TL!

You are right Nik, I think I provide a pretty unbiased look at this Alternate World and try to write from a view such as Theodore White, as an Political Science reflecting back on the past. I also knew the Maureen would be a pleasant suprise to many Readers lol. Here is a quick look at the '92 Congressional/Gubernatorial elections btw...My next full fledged update on Maureen's Presidency should be up in the next couple of days.
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The 1992 US Congressional/Gubernatorial Elections

   With Maureen Reagan’s plurality win in the Electoral College, results coming out of the Senate were mixed. The Republican’s increased their majority to 55 to 45, with crucial pickups being; Bruce Herschensohn of California, Paul Coverdell in Georgia, Judd Greg in New Hampshire, Lauch Faircloth in North Carolina, Thomas F. Hartnett in South Carolina, and Rod Chandler in Washington. Crucial Democratic Pick ups included Dianne Feinstein in California, Ben Nighthorse Campbell in Colorado, Carol Mosley Braun in Illinois and Russ Feingold in Wisconsin. The GOP however, prevailed in the House of Representatives, picking up a firm majority largely due to gains on the Pacific Coast, and in the Industrial Belt. In terms of the gubernatorial results, The GOP also made significant gains. Those included; Marc Racicot in Montana, Steve Merril in New Hampshire, Jim Gardner in North Carolina, Ed Schafer in North Dakota, Mike Leavitt in Utah, and Ken Eikenberry in Washington. Although Reagan didn’t receive a majority in the popular vote, the Nation did bestow on the first Female President majorities in both houses, and a strong mandate to enact her policies unto the American public.

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

We're hardly waiting

[Historico]

The Virtue of Moderation: The 1st Term of Maureen Elizabeth Reagan

   Almost a quarter of a Century before, Maureen’s father stood on those very steps and swore to preserve, protect, and defend the constitution of the United States. With the First Gentlemen Dennis Revell at her side, the former Governor of California took that same oath and finally broke through that proverbial Glass Ceiling in one fell swoop. Maureen’s Inaugural Address was memorable as she balanced humor with the historical significance of the moment, “As I said during the campaign, I will feel equality has arrived when we can elect to office women who are as unqualified as some of the men who are already there, we still got ways to go America and that I hope, by the end of my term in office, we will have truly brought change to not only this nation but to the entire world.” Maureen knew with her plurality win in November that she would have to bring the best of the brightest Democrats, Independents, and Republicans to govern truly from the center. The 52 year-old’s administration would show America the importance of having a team of rivals.

Secretary of State: Richard G. “Dick” Lugar
Secretary of Treasury: Arthur B. Laffer
Secretary of Defense: James B. Stockdale
Attorney General: Janet Reno
Secretary of Interior: Paul Laxalt
National Security Advisor: Madeline Albright
Secretary of Commerce: Lowell P. Weicker Jr.
Secretary of Labor:  Robert “Bob” Martinez
Secretary of Agriculture: George W. Bush
Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare: Lamar Alexander
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development: Jack Kemp
Secretary of Energy: William Reiley
Secretary of Veteran’s Affairs: Jesse Brown
Secretary of Transportation: March Fong Fu

      
Arguably the most bipartisan Administration since Volpe, The newfound 42nd President made true on her promise to reach across the aisle to bring in a competent cabinet. Reagan’s choice for the nation’s top diplomat went, to Senator Dick Lugar of Indiana, who recently was elected as Chairman on the Senate Foreign Relations in 1989, whom was seen as strong pick which further boosted her lack of Foreign Policy credentials. Highly respected for his work on Nuclear, Chemical and Biological stockpiles reduction, and for his relatively moderate stances on social issues, Lugar was determined to set for a new Doctrine for the first decade of “The Post-Cold War World”. For the post of Secretary of Defense brought on board Ross Perot’s personal friend and former Vice Presidential place holder before the Brown pick… retired Vice Admiral James Stockdale. The 69 year old was a former Vietnam POW, despite a little animosity toward Vice President Warner and Washington Gridlock, Stockdale was generally seen as the quintessential American hero and in turned swiftly confirmed by the Senate. Reagan also brought in two Democrats into her foreign policy team, with her choice of National Security Advisor going to former Bradley Administration’s UN Ambassador Madeline Albright, and Secretary of Veteran’s Affairs went to Disabled Veterans Director Jesse Brown of Virgina.


Vice President John Warner meeting with Secretary of Sate Dick Lugar
   
In her dealings with American Domestic Policy, Reagan nominated well-qualified persons whose diverse backgrounds brought in a new flair to the Executive Branch. For Secretary of Defense, Reagan chose Supply-Side Economist Arthur Laffer, whose Laffer curve theory which postulated that tax elasticity which asserts that in certain situations, a decrease in tax rates could result in an increase in tax revenues were extremely popular within GOP Circles. Reagan also needed to keep with her Law and Order image, in doing so she picked the tough Dade County, Florida... Democratic Crusader for Justice, Janet Reno for Attorney General. For the post of Secretary of Interior, Reagan chose her father’s close friend and former Nevada Senator Paul Laxalt. Laxalt, although 71 year’s of age, was swiftly confirmed by his former Senate colleagues, as his known stance on ecological preservation made him well suited for Interior Secretary. Former Republican turned Independent, Governor Lowell Weicker Jr. of Connecticut, who also strongly backed the Perot ’92 Campaign was chosen to succeed Ralph Nader as Secretary of Commerce. In order to keep her support in the Latino community, President Reagan chose former Governor Bob Martinez of Florida for the position of Labor Secretary. With his master’s degree in Labor & Industrial Relations, as well a Pre-Gubernatorial work with the Teacher’s unions in Florida, made him the perfect candidate to attempt to rankle away some of the power given to Labor during the previous Democratic administrations.


Bob Martinez of Florida...First Hispanic Secretary of Labor

A surprise pick made by Maureen came with the nomination of conservative Rep. George W. Bush of Texas, to replace fellow Texan Bob Bullock as Secretary of Agriculture. Dubya as Bush was known within the GOP and in his home state of Texas was thought as many as prime to run for his father’s Senate Seat upon retirement or even as a challenger to the popular Governor Ann Richards in the ’94 Texas Gubernatorial election. Reagan also chose potential Vice Presidential running mate, former Governor Lamar Alexander of Tennessee as HEW Secretary, which further cemented her support amongst Southern Moderates. One of the biggest rewards came to Rep. Jack Kemp of New York, although a staunch Supply-Sider, Kemp was chosen as Secretary of Housing & Urban Development. Kemp brought to the White House, a form of compassionate Conservatism. The HUD Secretary revolutionized the position, as he had done during the last twenty years in his career as an US Representative, working hard to continue to improve Republican relations with Minority communities. Former EPA Administrator/Social Conservative, William Reily of Texas was chosen by Reagan as Energy Secretary, to continue America’s quest to wing herself off the addiction of foreign oil. Reagan would award personal friend, and longtime California Secretary of State, The 71 year old March Fong Fu to the position of Transportation Secretary. With her cabinet consisting of eight Republicans, four Democrats, and two Independents, Maureen’s Team of Rivals looked forward to the rest of the last decade in the 20th Century with a sense of Optimism and Temperance for the momentous tasks which laid in foresight.


Secretary of Housing & Urban Development Jack Kemp aka. Domestic Policy Czar

[Historico]

Maureen’s first goal as President was to give the sluggish American Economy a major booster shot. In her first few weeks in office, President Reagan met none stop with Treasury Secretary Arthur Laffer, Commerce Secretary Lowell Weicker, and HUD Secretary Jack Kemp and several other congressional leaders mainly to design an Economic Recovery package. Written primarily by Laffer and Kemp, the Economic Recovery Tax Act (or ERTA) of 1993, focused mainly on four principals which included; reduction of the growth of government spending, reduction of income and capital gains marginal tax rates, reduction of government regulation of the economy, and significant control over the money supply to reduce inflation. After the Senate finance committee released the ERTA for a vote, which it won by a 65 to 35 margin, with the Republican’s lining up to support their President, as well as a handful of Fiscally Conservative Democrats also supported the measure. The ERTA of 1993, which became the embodiment of what is now termed “Reaganomics”, was signed into law by President Reagan at the White House on August 24th. Many of the Democrats signed onto the ERTA due to President Reagan’s staunch support of the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) of 1993. The law passed during the first couple of weeks of the Reagan Presidency, entitled employee’s an extended paid-vacation time to take care of themselves, or family members if seriously ill as well as to take care of newly arrived children(via birth or adoption).   


Secretary of Treasury Arthur Laffer and his infamous Laffer Curve

President Reagan during the last few months of her first year in office made her first appointment to the United States Supreme Court, when in October of 1993…Associate Justice Byron White announced his retirement after serving over 30 years on the bench. Maureen understood that she needed to nominate a staunch conservative as her Southern support had begun to waiver due to her moderate policy proposals but also felt that she needed to continue the progressive reform of the bench made by her Democratic predecessors. On October 21st, Maureen unveiled her choice in Fifth Circuit Judge Edith H. Jones of Texas to fill White’s vacated seat. Despite the Republican Majority, many Democrat’s were concerned over Jones’ outspoken Pro-life stance on Roe v. Wade. Yet with no major illegalities being found, Edith Jones was sworn in November 20th as the Second Female ever appointed an Associate Justice of the United States.


Second Female Associate Justice Edith H. Jones of the United States Supreme Court
   
On January 14th 1994, President Maureen Reagan met with Russian President Boris Yeltsin to open up talks of further nuclear disarmament between the former sworn enemies. The talks resulted in the Kremlin Accords, which not only provided for the elimination of Ukraine’s nuclear arsenal, but also stopped the predetermined targeting of each other’s missile fleet. In her 1st State of the Union Address, President Reagan proposed for sweeping new legislation to be put in place; which included Education Reform, a Balanced Budget Amendment, Anti-Crime Bill as well as increased aid to stop the growth of totalitarianism abroad. On April 26th, after a staggering Red Cross report was released that estimated hundreds of thousands of the Tsusti tribe had been killed in the ongoing genocide in Rwanda, President Reagan announced that “I can not stand idly by and do nothing about this crisis as some of my opponents would have me to do so. Therefore, I will order for a coalition of US and UN forces to be sent into Rwanda to provide relief and resolve the conflict in its entirety.” Coalition forces would arrive in the continent by the first week in May, and with the help of the Rwandan Patriot Front be able to restore order between the Hutu and Tsuti tribes. Although the United States sustained 25 deaths during the mission, many throughout the world applauded President Reagan for her efforts. The coalition remained mainly as a peacekeeping force through 1995.


The Horror of the Rwanadan Genocide
   
With her approval rating standing around 60%, largely due to the popularity of the Lugar Doctrine, Maureen Reagan decided to focus on a large push for Domestic Legislation in order to increase the GOP’s successes in the 1994 midterm elections. In June of 1993, President Reagan devised a taskforce led by First Gentleman Dennis Revell to come up with a solution on how to improve the American Educational System. The plan devised by Revell asked for Congress to billions of dollars into a School Voucher program which enabled for parents to send their child to the school of their choice, it also included dollars allocated for new school construction, edutainment programs, and increased Federal Grants and Loans for college students. The “Revellcation” Plan as it would be dubbed in the national media was found to be unpalatable to many Congressional leaders, due to the program’s enormous costs which would only add to the gaping Federal Deficit, Secrecy within the White House on the development of the Plan, and strong opposition by the teachers unions. After several rounds of Congressional hearings, the Revellcation plan was submitted to the Senate on October 28th 1994, where a coalition of Libertarian Republicans, Pro-Labor Democrats, and Anti-Deficit Independents defeated the plan on a 54 to 46 vote.


First Gentleman Dennis Revell doing groundwork for the Taskforce on National Education Reform   

There was some light at the end of the tunnel for the Reagan administration before the 1994 midterm elections. In September of 1994, the 85 year old, liberal Associate Justice Harry Blackmun announced his retirement from the Bench. To fill his seat, Maureen nominated moderate to conservative Senator Kit Bond of Missouri. With no illegalities being found, the man from Mexico, Missouri was easily confirmed by his senate colleagues on October 31st. President Reagan was also successful in the passage of the VCCALEA(Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act) of 1994, which was that largest crime bill in the history of the United States. The VCCALEA recruited 200,000 new police officers, billions of dollars for new Prison construction and prevention programs. President Reagan upon signing the VCCALEA on November 4th 1994, said “Although I am a full believer in everyone’s right to the Second Amendment, we’re hopeful that with this Act, something at least can be done about the senseless violence which racks the nation to its core."

[Historico]

Hey Guys, I just wanted to let you all know that Im going back to University this fall starting next Thursday...which means my updates will be probably few and far between. I may be able get the rest of Maureen's 1st Term and the 1996 Presidential Election out within the next couple of weeks. I haven't got this far not to finish, so just stay tuned in because I have alot of cool things planned for the last decade and a half of this timeline:D, but now enjoy my little snippet on the '94 Midterm elections.

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1994 US Congressional/Gubernatorial elections


The 1994 United States Midterm election’s proved to be just as exciting as the previous Presidential election that took place in 1992. In the aftermath of his strong third place finish in the 1992 Elections, Perot along with many of his grassroots organizers from the ’92 campaign formed the Reform Party on the USA in 1993 a month after Maureen’s Inauguration. The Reform Party’s goal was to provide a viable alternative to the mainstream Democratic and Republican Parties, and goal was to organize Independent Candidates under one banner. The massive amount of personal fundraising and otherwise from Perot allowed for the nascent Party to perform extremely well during the Midterm elections. All in all, The Reform Party picked up two upset wins in the Senate being Dean Barkley in Minnesota, and J. Marshall Coleman in Virginia and 40 seats in the House. In the Gubernatorial Races, the Reform Party won Six of the 36 races held that year; Jackson Coghill in Alaska, Eunice Groark(Incumbent since 1993 due to Weicker’s appointment as Secretary of Commerce) in Connecticut, Frank Fasi in Hawaii, Angus King in Maine, Roberto Moondragon in New Mexico, and Wes Watkins in Oklahoma

However, it was not the end of the Two-Party as of yet as the Republican’s and the Democrats won some very key races. The GOP picked up 5 seats which enabled them a filibuster proof majority with a 60 to 38 to 2 Margin. Republican picks included John Kyl in Arizona, Michael Huffington in California, Olympia Snowe in Maine, Spencer Abrahams in Michigan, John Ashcroft in Missouri and Mike DeWine in Ohio. Democrats still divded after the 1992 Primary race, produced a handful of wins mainly Democratic Holds for incumbents. In the House, Speaker Newt Ginrich maintained the Republican Majority despite the success of the Reform Party. The Gubernatorial races proved in more split results for both Major Parties. GOP wins included Fob James in Alabama, Fife Symington III in Arizona, Pete Wilson in California, Jim Edgar in Illinois, Bill Graves in Kansas, John Engler in Michigan, Tom Ridge in Pennsylvania, Jim Gibbons in Nevada, George Pataki of New York, Denny Smith in Oregon and Bill Janklow in South Dakota. The Democrats won and kept Governor’s House’s with victories by, Jim Guy Tucker in Arkansas, Lawton Chiles in Florida, Zell Miller in Georgia, Larry Echohawk in Idaho, Parris Glendening in Maryland, Myrth York in Rhode Island, Nick Theodore in South Carolina, Phil Bredsen in Tennessee, and Ann Richards in Texas.

Results of the 1994 United States Gubernatorial Elections

[Historico]

Any thoughts, Comments, Suggestions...Poker tips?

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

Any thoughts, Comments, Suggestions...Poker tips?

Comments? Excellet as always

What's going on with Biden, Gore, Gephardt, Quayle, Bentsen, Nunn?

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

While awaiting next update, I reveived this timeline once again and couldn't resist to post a presidential list

Presidents:

37th: Ronald W. Reagan (R-CA), January 20, 1969 – January 20, 1977
38th: John A. Volpe (R-MA), January 20, 1977 – January 20, 1981
39th: Edward M. Kennedy (D-MA), January 20, 1981 – March 30, 1981
40th: Charles C. Finch (D-MS), March 30, 1981 – April 22, 1986
41st: Thomas J. Bradley (D-CA), April 22, 1986 – January 20, 1993
42nd: Maureen E. Reagan (R-CA), January 20, 1993 – present

Vice Presidents:

39th: John A. Volpe (R-MA), January 20, 1969 – January 20, 1977
40th: Howard H. Baker (R-TN), January 20, 1977 – January 20, 1981
41st: Charles C. Finch (D-MS), January 20, 1981 – March 30, 1981
Vacant, March 30, 1981 – June 11, 1981
42nd: Thomas J. Bradley (D-CA), June 11, 1981 – April 22, 1986
Vacant, April 22, 1986 – October 11, 1986
43rd: Birch E. Bayh (D-IN), October 11, 1986 – January 20, 1993
44th: John W. Warner (R-VA), January 20, 1993- present

[Historico]

Any thoughts, Comments, Suggestions...Poker tips?

Comments? Excellet as always

What's going on with Biden, Gore, Gephardt, Quayle, Bentsen, Nunn?

Ill go into more details about alternate Careears once the timeline is finished, in a Where are they now? Segment

Biden: Current Senator of Delaware
Gore: Current Senator of Tennesse
Gephardt: Current House Minority Leader, representing Missouri
Quayle: Current Senator of Indidana
Bensten: Retired back to Texas, Can't remember who I had to replace his seat, but ill go back to Double check.
Nunn: Senate Minority Leader from Georgia

[Historico]

While awaiting next update, I reveived this timeline once again and couldn't resist to post a presidential list

Presidents:

37th: Ronald W. Reagan (R-CA), January 20, 1969 – January 20, 1977
38th: John A. Volpe (R-MA), January 20, 1977 – January 20, 1981
39th: Edward M. Kennedy (D-MA), January 20, 1981 – March 30, 1981
40th: Charles C. Finch (D-MS), March 30, 1981 – April 22, 1986
41st: Thomas J. Bradley (D-CA), April 22, 1986 – January 20, 1993
42nd: Maureen E. Reagan (R-CA), January 20, 1993 – present

Vice Presidents:

39th: John A. Volpe (R-MA), January 20, 1969 – January 20, 1977
40th: Howard H. Baker (R-TN), January 20, 1977 – January 20, 1981
41st: Charles C. Finch (D-MS), January 20, 1981 – March 30, 1981
Vacant, March 30, 1981 – June 11, 1981
42nd: Thomas J. Bradley (D-CA), June 11, 1981 – April 22, 1986
Vacant, April 22, 1986 – October 11, 1986
43rd: Birch E. Bayh (D-IN), October 11, 1986 – January 20, 1993
44th: John W. Warner (R-VA), January 20, 1993- present

Thanks for the Recap Kal...With this weekend being a Holiday, and with not alot of things happening in the mid '90's anyways, I should be able to crank out the last half of Maureen's term by Sunday or Monday. So everyone stay posted, this old bird is still alive lol

[Historico]

After a much needed break, I thought Id give you all a little token of my appreciation this Labor Day Weekend. However, due to classes at University already kicking up, I can't tell you when ill have the installment up on the 1996 US Presidential Election...but know that I fully intend the finish this timeline whether by the end of this year or rolling it into 2010:D...So enjoy.

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The Virtue of Moderation: Part 2

   The Nation’s First Female President became reinvigorated after her party’s successful pick ups in the 1994 Midterm elections, including a filibuster proof majority in the Senate. Maureen Reagan, with her personal popularity mainly due to her focus on foreign affairs during the first half of her term, decided that for her reelection purposes a dire focus on the American Domestic situation had to be made. In the first few months of 1995, President Reagan met frequently with Senate Majority Leader George H.W. Bush of Texas, Vice President John Warner of Virginia, and Speaker of the House Newt Ginrich of Georgia, to discuss an implementation of sprawling moderate to conservative Legislation of the course of the next two years. On January 28th 1995, President Reagan unveiled, A Future for America, a legislative package written chiefly by members of the Heritage Foundation Think Tank and congressional members. The series of Policy Reforms bills, included measures on tax cuts on the personal and private sector, social security reform, tort reform and term limits for legislators. After the Speech, both Gallup and Rasmussen Polling firms showed that around 65% of American’s supported any kind of reform to help streamline the American Federal Government.

   One of the first Act to be submitted to Congress, was that of The Fiscal Responsibility Act on March 4th 1995. Written chiefly by, Congressman Bill Paxon of New York, that the FRA called for an Amendment to the Constitution that would require an annual Balanced Budget. The FRA was also packaged with legislation that would have enabled the President to have the power of the Line-Item Veto. However, many Congressional Democrats were unsure of the constitutionality of the FRA, with Senator Harvey Gannt of North Carolina declaring “That you can not simply changes a few articles of the Constitution and get away with it.”. In the fall of 1995, Public Support for the Amendment had stalled, which prompted President Reagan to give a nationally televised address from the Oval Office about the details of the FRA. In the address, Maureen said “Tonight I ask you to give me what forty-three governors have…Give me a line-item veto this year. Give me the authority to veto waste, and I'll take the responsibility, I'll make the cuts, I'll take the heat!” With the debate reinvigorated by the President’s address, the FRA passed through the house on a two thirds margin (300-132) on September 4th. After weeks of rankling by the Senate, with the GOP voting in party lines along with votes from the Reform Party Senators and a handful of Blue Dog Democrats…The Fiscal Responsibility Act passed on a 70 to 30 margin, which sent the Amendment to the states for Ratification. President Maureen Reagan with Senator’s Bob Dole, John McCain and John Chafee at her side, signed the Line Item Veto portion of the Act on October 12th 1995.


Senator Harvey Gantt of North Carolina, a staunch defender against the Fiscal Responsability Act of 1995

   Yet the last two years of Maureen’s first term proved to be struck by tragedy, both on a personal and national level. The national tragedy was felt first, as on April 19th 1995, when a fertilizer filled truck bomb exploded outside the Alfred P. Murrah building in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. More than 100 people were killed, when the north face of the building collapsed as a result of the explosion. In the night after the explosion, A cold, resolute Maureen Reagan appeared before a Joint Session of Congress in response to the Attack. In the address, Reagan said “I make a promise to every soul in America, that these Men, who slaughtered innocent American lives, will be found, tried and punished for their incomprehensible acts against not only the United States but Humanity as a whole.” After the attack, Emergence crews from across the nation searched through the ruble which allowed the final death toll to stand at 170, including 19 young children who were in the Day Care Center at the time. With the largest manhunt in American History for the worst act of Terrorism on Domestic Soil found the culprit of the attacks in 27 year old Timothy McVeigh. When it was discovered that McVeigh and his associates were members in a radical right wing militia groups, President Reagan via executive order called for all unregistered militia groups to be disbanded, weapons stockpiles confiscated, and some of the more unstable members of the militia groups interrogated by the FBI/CIA. Mcveigh himself was convicted on 15 counts of murder and conspiracy and sentenced to death by lethal injection on June 2nd 1997.


04/19/95...A Day which will live in Infamy

   A more personal tragedy stuck President Reagan a few months after the Oklahoma City Bombing, when her father…the nation’s 37th President, Ronald W. Reagan was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in August of 1995. At the age of 84, the former President’s mental health had been rumored to be deteriorating since the mid ‘80’s. After discussing it with family, President Maureen Reagan emotionally read her father’s handwritten letter to the nation; in which he said “I have recently been told that I am one of the millions of Americans who will be afflicted with Alzheimer's disease... At the moment I feel just fine. I intend to live the remainder of the years God gives me on this earth doing the things I have always done... I now begin the journey that will lead me into the sunset of my life. I know that for America there will always be a bright dawn ahead. Thank you, my friends. May God always bless you…” public sympathy poured out for the Reagan family, as a result of pressed Maureen Reagan’s approval rating to a remarkable 80%. Maureen would spend the rest of her public career devoted to seeing that her father’s dreams for the nation would be finally realized during her Presidency.


Former President Ronald Reagan having lunch with Senate Majority Leader George H.W. Bush at the Reagan Ranch in Santa Barbara, California.

   For the majority of 1996, The Republican controlled 104th congress kept the bawl rolling, as President Reagan focused a majority of her time campaigning across the nation for her reelection. Several acts mentioned in the Future For America Plan were passed during this interim period including the Taking Back our Streets Act, which was another strong Anti-Crime bill. The Personal Responsibility Act was passed in May of 1996, which cut spending on Welfare programs by means of discouraging teen pregnancy and lack of incentives to work. The PRA was achieved by prohibiting welfare to mothers less than 18 years of age, denying increased AFDC for additional children while on welfare, and enacting a two-years-and-out provision with work requirements to promote individual responsibility. The American Dream Restoration Act was also passed, which called for a repeal of the marriage tax, $500 per child tax credit, and an across the board Federal Savings Accounts to provide middle class tax relief. Tort Reform was visualized in the “Common Sense” Legal Reform Act, in order to cut down on frivolous litigation. A crucial package in the form of the JCAWEA (Job Creation and Wage Enhancement), to rebuke the Democratic argument that the Reagan administration had seen an slew of job losses due to the supply side economics enacted in 1993. The JCAWEA included provisions for a cut in capital gains taxes and indexation, risk assessment/Cost-Benefit anaylsis, a series of deregulations, and a minimum wage increase. It was passed right around the Republican National Convention, as many pundits rolled it into the high bump received by the incumbent Reagan/Warner ticket.