Senator Benson Rockefeller Goes For The Gold

[Lincoln Republican]

The electoral map at this hour

Clinton                                   232
Rockefeller                              215
To come or too close to call         91

[Lincoln Republican]

Welcome back to CNN and Election Night '96.  I'm Bernard Shaw, CNN News Anchor.

CNN is now in a position to make the following calls.  

Arizona has simply been too close all night to call.  However, we now have sufficient data to call Arizona.  Arizona goes to President Clinton.

Bernie, this no doubt comes as a big disappointment to Senator John McCain, who campaigned hard for Senator Rockefeller in his home state.  
Clinton won it by a razor thin margin, but he did win it nonetheless.

CNN is now able to call the following states, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, all for President Clinton.  

Bernie, these do not come as a total surprise.  Democrats have done well in Oregon and Washington, and sometimes in Nevada, although this time around the Democratic margin in all of these states was very small, especially in Nevada and Oregon.  A bit bigger in Washington, but far smaller than in some elections in which they have won this state.

Thanks Peter.

CNN now has enough data to call Alaska and Hawaii.

Alaska will go to Senator Rockefeller.  Hawaii will go to President Clinton.

These states are following traditional voting patterns.  No big surprises this time around in these states.

In fact, you will recall that Senator Rockefeller made a much publicized trip to Alaska and made a major policy speech at a huge rally in Anchorage, where he discussed energy, hunting, fishing and environmental issues, and spent an entire day meeting with Alaskans.  This resulted in a huge win for Rockefeller in Alaska tonight.

The Rockefeller campaign also dispatched Liddy Dole to Hawaii early in the campaign, where she addressed a huge rally in Honolulu.  They did not win Hawaii, but they did do very well in the state.

Senator Rockefeller stated during his visit to Alaska that he and Liddy Dole did not take Alaska or Hawaii for granted, and that they wanted to meet and talk to the people of these two states face to face.   

So it all comes down to California, which has simply been too close to call.  

Peter, Alex, either of you want to go out on a limb and make a prediciton for California?

Bernie, only a fool would predict California based on the closeness of the vote there.

I agree.  In this state, we will need more data before making a call.

(CNN conducts a round table discussion with their pundits and political analysts until sufficient data comes in from California to make a definitive call for the state.)

(During the round table discussion, Bernard Shaw in a conversation off camera:  What's that?  Are you sure?  Well, check, double check, and triple check your data.  We want to make the call, but we want to make the right call.  Too much hinges on this call, and we have to get it right.  Okay, all your data has been verified.  We'll go live.)

I will have to interrupt your discussion.  Ladies and gentlemen, CNN is now in a position to call the all important state of California.  This state will decide who will win this election.  CNN calls the state of California for Senator Benson Rockefeller, giving him 272 electoral votes, a majority in the Electoral College.  

So Senator Benson Rockefeller of New York becomes the 43rd President of the United States of America.  We now take you live to Rockefeller Central in Manhattan.

[Lincoln Republican]

The electoral map for Election '96

Benson Rockefeller/Elizabeth Dole         272 EV       47.54% PV
Bill Clinton/Al Gore                              266 EV       47.41% PV
Ross Perot/Pat Choate                             0 EV        4.16% PV
Ralph Nader/Winona LaDuke                     0 EV        0.53% PV
Others                                                   0 EV        0.36% PV

[Lincoln Republican]

Actually, this was a very good timeline.

Thank you Hawkeye.  I never thought I would be hearing that from you, so that makes it all that much more appreciated.

I plan to pursue this timeline now into the transition and then into the Rockefeller Presidency.

[Lincoln Republican]

We now take you live to Rockefeller Central in Manhattan.

Sue, I can see that place has gone wild.  What's it like actually being there?

Bernie, it is absolutely unbelievable.  Shouts of WE WANT ROCKY, are almost deafening.  When the news flashed on the screens from all the networks that Senator Rockefeller had taken California, this place broke out in a frenzy of celebration.  

Sue, when is Senator Rockefeller, now President Elect Rockefeller, expected to arrive, and address the nation?

Well, I have been talking with some key Rockefeller people here, but they have not confirmed with me when the President Elect will be coming here to speak.  It would seem his appearance has been delayed for some reason.  It is now approaching 4:00 A.M., eastern standard time, and this election was just decided only minutes ago.

Thank you Sue.  We will continue to monitor the situation, and will get back to you as soon as more information is available.  

Thank you Bernie.

Peter, the Rockefeller win in California, what lies behind that?

Bernie, Benson Rockefeller had appeal to many Californians.  He's the kind of Republican many people in the state seem to like.  As well, popular Governor Pete Wilson campaigned vigorously for Rockefeller throughout the state.  And don't forget Bernie, it was in Sacramento that Rockefeller uttered the now famous and much quoted phrase,

National security is singing off key and needs voice lessons.

This phrase was picked up by all the networks and much of the print media, and given a tremendous amount of publicity and play across the country.

Thanks Peter.

We now go live to President Clinton's headquarters.  Mark, what's it like down there at this time after Rockefeller was declared the winner?  

Bernie, as you can imagine, the mood here is somber and downcast.  Many people here in fact are in a state of disbelief.

Thanks Mark.  

[Lincoln Republican]

There is something happening at Rockefeller Central.  We now take you live to Rockefeller headquarters.

Sue, what's going on now?  Has the President Elect arrived?

Bernie, I can see a path being cleared through the crowd by what would appear to be a phalanx of security.  Someone is in the middle of this security brigade and is making his way to the stage.  I can't make out who it is from my vantage point Bernie.  Wait, I can see now that it is not the President Elect.  Bernie, we are going immediately to the podium.

Ladies and gentlemen, I am Senator Al D'Amato of New York, and I am here to make a statement on behalf of President Elect Benson Rockefeller.  Approximately five minutes ago, President Elect Rockefeller  had just gotten off the phone with President Clinton.  Mr. Clinton had called Mr. Rockefeller to inform him that he was not ready, at this time, to concede the election.  President Elect Rockefeller will be making a statement at 5:00 P.M. today, eastern standard time.

Well, there you have it Bernie.  Senator D'Amato has left the stage and is not taking any questions.

Thank you Sue.

Well, what an election night this has been.  We will be here to cover the statement from President Elect Rockefeller, which will be taking place at 5:00 P.M. today, eastern standard time.

[Lincoln Republican]

Actually, this was a very good timeline.

Thank you Hawkeye.  I never thought I would be hearing that from you, so that makes it all that much more appreciated.

I plan to pursue this timeline now into the transition and then into the Rockefeller Presidency.

When you started, you made this very Rockefeller-biased, but that has stopped since.

Yes, and you took into consideration circumstances like Rockefeller's stance on the issues and how that would affect the election.  In fact, I was kind of hoping for a terror attack on US Soil to make the election a little more pro-Rockefeller.

This is very well written.

Thank you for the compliment.  Much appreciated.

[Lincoln Republican]

This is CNN.  I'm Bernard Shaw, CNN News Anchor.

Welcome to this CNN news special.

President Elect Benson Rockefeller is scheduled to address the nation one hour from now, and we will, of course, be providing live coverage of that event.

CNN would like to clarify our use of the term President Elect that we have been using.

During our election coverage last evening when CNN made the calls as to which of the candidates each of the states and the District of Columbia would go, these calls were made based on extensive exit polling and scientific analysis of the vote in strategic areas of each state.  Our methods were sound and we stand behind our calls.  That is why we continue to refer to Mr. Rockefeller as the President Elect.  We have not changed our stand in light of the events of early this morning when President Clinton informed President Elect Rockefeller that he was not ready to concede the election at this time.
 

[Lincoln Republican]

Wednesday November 6, 5:00 P.M. eastern standard time

We now take you live to Manhattan, where President Elect Rockefeller is to address the nation.

Rockefeller takes the podium.  Elizabeth Dole stands to his right and about one foot back.  Rockefeller looks Presidential with his navy blue business suit, white shirt with red cufflinks, red and blue stripped tie, with an American flag lapel pin.  Elizabeth Dole is wearing an attractive green suit, jacket and skirt, with blue edging, and a white top under her suit jacket.  She is as well wearing an American flag lapel pin.

Rockefeller begins his remarks.

Good evening my fellow Americans.  Every four years, as provided by our constitution, Americans go to the polls to elect a President and Vice President to lead the nation.  As you know, this exercise in democracy took place yesterday.  The decision of the voters has been rendered, and the voters have made a close yet clear determination as to who is to lead this nation over the next four years.  From any reasonable reading of the votes cast, state by state, the decision made by the voters of this nation is that they have chosen myself and Elizabeth Dole as the next President and Vice President of the United States.

We all know that this election was one of the closest, if not the closest Presidential election in the history of this nation.  We recognize and acknowledge that.  Secretary Dole and myself have finished slightly ahead of President Clinton and Vice President Gore in the popular vote, but in an election this close, indeed, in any election for President and Vice President, it is the Electoral College Vote that determines the winner of the election.

Secretary Dole and I have received a majority of the Electoral College votes, receiving 272 votes to 266 for President Clinton and Vice President Gore.  270 Electoral College votes are required to win the election.  

A close analysis of each of the states won by Secretary Dole and myself shows very clearly that in each and every one of these states, our margin of victory is beyond contention.  Many of these states we have won by comfortable margins.  As well, several of the states that we have won were by narrow margins.  We acknowledge that.  Even though in several states our margin of victory was close, our margin in these close states was still wide enough as to be beyond question, and that includes the state of California.  Likewise, although President Clinton and Vice President Gore won many states by comfortable margins, many of the states they won they as well won by very narrow margins.  Our conclusions are supported by analysts across the country.

We would urge President Clinton and Vice President Gore to consider these facts very carefully in any determination they will be making in this matter.

Let me be clear, due to the extreme closeness of this election, President Clinton and Vice President Gore are completely entitled, indeed, it is most sensible, to closely examine the results in each and every state, in particular the close states, before taking a particular course of action, and, as the Clinton campaign has stated, they require time to examine these results closely.

However, I have laid out the plain facts, and those facts are that Secretary Dole and I have won this election, by any reasonable measure of the results.

The transition from one administration to the next is long and involved.  Consequently, our transition team has begun the process of establishing a new administration, ready to go from day one, the day of our inauguration.

Thank you my fellow Americans, and good evening.    

 

[Lincoln Republican]

We now return to the CNN studios.  I'm Bernard Shaw, News Anchor.

Well Alex, what do you make of Rockefeller's remarks?

Bernie, Rockefeller could not have been more precise or to the point.  He came right out and said that he and Elizabeth Dole won the election, and that they have begun the transition process.

He also said that even in the close states, their margin of victory was beyond contention.  Bernie, CNN, and all the other networks, by virtue of the fact they called even these close states for Rockefeller, tells us that we, and the other networks as well, agree with his statement in this regard.  If we were not confident that the Rockefeller margin was sufficient enough to put the state safely in his column, we would have called the state as too close to call.  But our numbers show that none of these states fall into the too close to call category.

President Clinton has a very tough sales job Bernie if he decides to contest the election.  Rockefeller has come right out and declared victory, backed it up with facts that are supported nationwide, and has begun the process of transition.

If President Clinton comes out now and contests the election, the nation, after hearing Rockefeller, will likely conclude that Rockefeller has won the election and that Clinton is trying to take it away from him.

From a PR standpoint, declaring victory was the smartest thing Rockefeller could do.

Thank you  Alex.

[Lincoln Republican]

Peter, your thoughts on the Rockefeller statement?

Bernie, I agree with Alex in his analysis.  Further Bernie, this was vintage Rockefeller.  He came out, spoke his mind very directly, pulled no punches.  

Another interesting thing he said, Bernie, when he was talking about the close states, he said very forthrightly that many of the states that Clinton won were also by very narrow margins, indicating to me what he really meant, very subtly, was alright Clinton, you want to contest some of my close states, many of your states were very close, I could then start contesting some of your close states.  You wanna play tough?  Let's go.

This would not be a pretty sight, Bernie.  It would result in a political slugfest the likes of which this country has never witnessed.  I think what Rockefeller was telling Clinton was now you don't really want to drag the country through that do you?

Also Bernie, the Clinton camp realizes full well that Rockefeller can be a real political street fighter when he has to be, and that he has almost limitless resources to fight any legal battles the Democrats may initiate.

After taking a couple of days going over the numbers, I doubt that Clinton will contest the results Bernie.  But in all fairness to Clinton, they did have to closely examine these numbers to see if there was any possibility that 4 electoral votes could be shifted their way.  Rockefeller himself acknowledged this.  But if there were 4 electoral votes the Clintons thought could be shifted to them, believe me, they would fight tooth and nail for them, and employ any means necessary if they thought they could get them.  But honestly Bernie, I do not believe there are 4 electoral votes out there that could be shifted, given the election results, even in the very close states.  

Bernie, given these extraordinarily close results, Benson Rockefeller is either the most skillful politician alive today, either that or the luckiest.    

[Lincoln Republican]

Friday November 8

Two days after the Rockefeller/Dole statement, Benson Rockefeller receives a phone call from Bill Clinton.

Ben, let me congratulate you on your election win.  The time has come for me to concede the election to you.  Our team has been going over the numbers very carefully in the close states that you won on election night and we have concluded that none of these states would shift to us should we contest them.    

I do not wish to subject the nation to a protracted legal battle from now until December in light of the fact that we now believe no states that you won have the potential to shift to us.

Bill, thank you very much for this most gracious call.  I know this has been a bitter and hardfought campaign, but I would like to tell you that I have long respected your incredible political skills.  If our finishing in the election would have been reversed, I would have taken the time to examine the results closely to see if there was any way of shifting a state or states to me.  And Bill, with the shift of a few thousand votes here and there, you would have won.  

Thanks Ben.  You have my full support in the transition.  All the best to you and Diane from Hillary and myself.

Thank you Bill.  That means a lot to me.  Please give Hillary and Chelsea all the best from Diane and I and our family.  And all the best to you Bill.  

Thanks Ben.  

One hour later, President Clinton goes on national television.

Good evening my fellow Americans.

Approximately one hour ago, I called President Elect Rockefeller and offered him my concession in the election.

Due to the extreme closeness of the election, we needed this time to examine all possibilities if any of the close states won by Mr. Rockefeller could be shifted to us.  We concluded that none of the states would change hands in a recount.  

President Elect Rockefeller agrees our course of action was the correct one.

President Elect Rockefeller has my full support in the transition.

Thank you and good night.

[Lincoln Republican]

Thank you Dallasfan.

I'm sure that is the result Ben Rockefeller would like to have seen as well.

I can assure you President Elect Rockefeller appreciates your optimistic projection of his electoral appeal. 

I am hoping to write an interesting Rockefeller Presidency.

Anything you would particularly like to see in that part of the story?

[Lincoln Republican]

This is CNN.  I'm Bernard Shaw, CNN News Anchor.

You have been watching live coverage of President Clinton's concession speech.

Alex, your thoughts on President Clinton's remarks?

Bernie, a very gracious statement from the President.  He was most conciliatory and will be leaving office on a high note.  

Thank you Alex.

We have received information that President Elect Benson Rockefeller will be addressing the nation, to accept the election victory, tomorrow, Saturday, 8:00 P.M., eastern standard time.  He has chosen a small venue for this address, the New York State Assembly in Albany.  Rockefeller was a two term Governor of New York, so he is very familiar with the state capitol.

CNN will, of course, be covering the President Elect's address live.  Please join us then.

Good evening and thank you for watching.  

[Lincoln Republican]

Saturday November 9, 8:00 PM eastern standard time

President Elect Benson Rockefeller addresses the nation from the New York State Assembly.

Seated behind him on stage are his wife Diane Rockefeller, Vice President Elect Elizabeth Dole and her husband Senator Bob Dole.

My fellow Americans, I come before you this evening as President Elect, with full knowledge and appreciation of the fact this election was one of the closest and most divisive in the history of our nation.  It will be my first priority as President to work for the common good of all Americans, regardless of politics, and to bring this nation together.  Whether you voted for me or not, I will do my best to serve your interests and I will work to earn your respect.

Let me say I have never had a more humbling moment in my life than to be elected to lead this nation.  

Last evening I received the most gracious call from President Clinton, conceding the election.  He has pledged his utmost support during the transition.  Mr. President, thank you.  This time is fitting to pay tribute to President Clinton, and to his many years of dedicated service to the great state of Arkansas and to this great nation.  Thank you President Clinton.  I would as well like to pay tribute to Vice President Al Gore, and to his many years of faithful service to the great state of Tennessee and to this great nation.  Thank you Vice President Gore.

Thank you to all those hundreds of thousands of Americans who worked so hard on our behalf in this campaign, as well thank you to all those who worked on behalf of the Clinton Gore campaign, as well as to those who worked on behalf of all the other candidates.  This is democracy in action.

A special thank you to my family, my wife Diane, thank you so much, and to all those members of my family who worked so tirelessly and faitufully on this campaign.

And speaking of Diane, she's going to have a new title in a couple of months. And it isn't really new because she's been the first lady in my life for a long time.

I am so pleased to have with me in this new administration Elizabeth Dole as Vice President.  Elizabeth Dole brings with her tremendous experience and outstanding abilities to this office.  Elizabeth Dole takes a back seat to no one when it comes to having the experience, knowledge, qualifications, and the abilities for this office.  When I began my Vice Presidential search, I stated that the individual that I pick would not only have the capabilities to be Vice President, but they would also have the capabilities to be President.  I've said it before and I say it now, Elizabeth Dole fulfills that criteria.  

Abe Lincoln, the day after his election to the Presidency, gathered in his office the newsmen who had been covering his campaign and he said to them, "Well boys, you're troubles are over now, mine have just begun."

I think I know what he meant. Lincoln may have been concerned in the troubled times in which he became President but I don't think he was afraid. He was ready to confront the problems and the troubles of a still youthful country, determined to seize the historic opportunity to change things.

And I am not frightened by what lies ahead and I don't believe the American people are frightened by what lies ahead. Together, we're going to do what has to be done. I aim to try and tap that great American spirit that opened up this completely undeveloped continent from coast to coast and made it a great nation, survived several wars, survived a Great Depression, and we'­ll survive any problems facing us in the future.

Tonight, I chose to speak from the chamber of the New York State Assembly because it has been a home to bipartisan co-operation.

Here, Republicans and Democrats have worked together to do what is right for the people they represent.

They've had spirited disagreements, and in the end, found constructive consensus.  I know, as I had the privilege of serving this great state as Governor for two terms. This spirit of cooperation and bipartisanship is an experience I will always carry with me, an example I will always follow.

The spirit of co-operation I have seen in this hall is what is needed in Washington. It is the challenge of our moment.

After a difficult election, we must put politics behind us and work together to make the promise of America available for every one of our citizens.

I'm optimistic that we can change the tone in Washington DC. I believe things happen for a reason, and I hope this close election will heighten a desire to move beyond the bitterness and partisanship of the recent past.

Our nation must rise above a house divided. Americans share hopes and goals and values far more important than any political disagreements. Republicans want the best for our nation. And so do Democrats. Our votes may differ, but not our hopes.

I know America wants reconciliation and unity. I know Americans want progress. And we must seize this moment and deliver.

Together, guided by a spirit of common sense, common courtesy and common goals, we can unite and inspire the American citizens.

Together, we will work to make all our public schools excellent, teaching every student of every background and every accent, so that every child has the oportunity to succeed. Together, we will save social security and renew its promise of a secure retirement for generations to come.

Together, we will strengthen Medicare and offer prescription drug coverage to all of our seniors. Together, we will give Americans the broad, fair and fiscally responsible tax system they deserve.

Together, we'll have a bipartisan foreign policy true to our values and true to our friends. And we will have a military equal to every challenge, and superior to every adversary.

Together, we will address some of society's deepest problems one person at a time, by encouraging and empowering the good hearts and good works of the American people.

These priorities are not merely Republican concerns or Democratic concerns, these are American responsibilities.

During the fall campaign, we differed about details of these proposals, but there was remarkable consensus about the important issues before us, excellent schools, retirement and health security, tax relief, a strong military, a more civil society.

We've discussed our differences, now it is time to find common ground and build consensus to make America a beacon of opportunity in the 21st century.

I'm optimistic this can happen. Our future demands it, and our history proves it. Two hundred years ago, in the election of 1800, America faced another close presidential election. A tie in the electoral college put the outcome into the hands of Congress.

After six days of voting, and 36 ballots, the House of Representatives elected Thomas Jefferson the third President of the United States. That election brought the first transfer of power from one party to another in our new democracy.

Shortly after the election, Jefferson, in a letter titled reconciliation and reform, wrote this, "the steady character of our countrymen is a rock to which we may safely moor, unequivocal in principle, reasonable in manner, we shall be able I hope to do a great deal of good to the cause of freedom and harmony."

Two hundred years have only strengthened the steady character of America. And so as we begin the work of healing our nation, tonight I call upon that character. Respect for each other. Respect for our differences. Generosity of spirit. And a willingness to work hard and work together to solve any problem.

I ask for the faith and prayers of Americans for this nation as we move ahead.

I thank you for your prayers for me and my family.  I have faith that with God's help we as a nation will move forward together, as one nation, indivisible. And together we will create an America that is open, so every citizen has access to the American dream.

An America that is educated, so every child has the keys to realise that dream. And an America that is united in our diversity and our shared American values that are larger than race or party.

I was not elected to serve one party, but to serve one nation. The President of the United States is the President of every single American, of every race and every background. Whether you voted for me or not, I will do my best to serve your interests, and I will work to earn your respect.

I will be guided by President Jefferson's sense of purpose, to stand for principle, to be reasonable in manner, and, above all, to do great good for the cause of freedom and harmony.

The Presidency is more than an honour, it is more than an office. It is a charge to keep, and, so help me God, I will keep it.

Thank you very much, and God bless America.

[Lincoln Republican]

This is CNN.  I'm Bernard Shaw, CNN News Anchor.

We have just watched President Elect Rockefeller address the nation, the day following the concession from President Clinton.

Peter, what do you make of the speech?

Bernie, a remarkable speech.  He appeared to be genuinely humble and conciliatory.  He certainly reached out to all Americans, those who supported him, and in particular, to those who did not.

We saw a very different Rockefeller tonight than we saw on the campaign trail.  In the campaign we saw a very ougtoing and, in some cases, bombastic Rockefeller.  Tonight, we saw a Rockefeller whose tone and speaking manner were definitely low key, certainly in comparison with what we are used to seeing from him.

The venue was very interesting Bernie, the New York State Assembly.  Rockefeller often prefers very large audiences, with much fanfare and everything that goes with that.  Tonight, speaking from the New York State Assembly, the President Elect wanted to let the nation know that he was all about cooperatrion and reconciliation, as the New York State Assembly, although by no means always the picture of bipartisanship, does have a reputation of working together in a bipartisan manner on many imortant issues that are important to the state.

This was a smart move on the part of Rockefeller Bernie.  A huge, noisy victory rally at say, Madison Square Garden, would have been completely inappropriate under these election circumstances.

Thank you Peter.

We have in the studio tonight Democratic Senator Ernest Hollings of South Carolina.

Welcome to the program Senator.

Thank you Bernie.

Senator, what is your take on the Rockefeller speech tonight?

Bernie, it was well crafted and well delivered.  But it is one thing to talk bipartisanship and quite another thing to deliver on it.

Quite frankly, Bernie, the President Elect does not have a sterling record in the bipartisanship field.  I am hopeful that the new President will put his words into practice when he takes office in January, and set aside the somewhat abrasive manner he is known for.

Thank you Senator.

Thank you Bernie.

[Lincoln Republican]

Sunday November 10, the day after addressing the nation from the New York State Assembly in Albany, to accept the election victory, President Elect Rockefeller and his wife Diane attend church services at the Madison Avenue Baptist Church in midtown Manhattan.

The couple gets out of the limousine three blocks from the church in order to walk, with security, in the brisk morning air.  Reporters are following them and are trying to get a comment from the President Elect.  

Mr. Rockefeller, what are your plans for the coming week?

Continuing walking, Rockefeller, well, as you know, we have a tremendous amount of work ahead of us preparing a new administration that will be ready to hit the gound running on our first day in office.  But today, we have come to church to worship and to thank the Lord for our blessings.  Thank you.

Inside the church, the couple is led to a seat on the front pew.  

The senior pastor, I would like to welcome all here today, and in particular, President Elect and Mrs. Rockefeller.  We are honored that you have chosen to worship today with us.  The couple nods their thanks.  We have never had so many cameras in the church.  Does my tie look alright?  (laughs)

The pastor delivers his sermon  

Psalms 107:1-9, 43

 1 Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!
         For His mercy endures forever.
 2 Let the redeemed of the LORD say so,
         Whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy,
 3 And gathered out of the lands,
         From the east and from the west,
         From the north and from the south.
        
 4 They wandered in the wilderness in a desolate way;
         They found no city to dwell in.
 5 Hungry and thirsty,
         Their soul fainted in them.
 6 Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble,
         And He delivered them out of their distresses.
  7 And He led them forth by the right way,
         That they might go to a city for a dwelling place.
 8 Oh, that men would give thanks to the LORD for His goodness,
         And for His wonderful works to the children of men!
 9 For He satisfies the longing soul,
         And fills the hungry soul with goodness.

 43 Whoever is wise will observe these things,
         And they will understand the lovingkindness of the LORD

Following the sermon, the Rockefellers leave the church.  They are met by reporters outside.

Mr. Rockefeller, how did you enjoy the service?

Very well.  We are always uplifted by hearing the word of God.

The couple gets into the armored limousine which has been provided by the secret service, and returns to their Manhattan residence for the day, where the President Elect meets with advisors to continue work on the transition.    

[Lincoln Republican]

Monday November 11

Benson and Diane Rockefeller attend New York City Veterans Day services, and are welcomed by Mayor Rudy Giuliani.

We are delighted to have in attendance here today President Elect Benson Rockefeller and Mrs. Diane Rockefeller.  Welcome.

The President Elect and Mrs. Rockefeller will participate in the proceedings today by laying a wreath in honor of our fallen soldiers and President Elect Rockefeller will deliver a speech for this occasion.

Mayor, honored guests, fellow citizens, my fellow Americans, thank you so very much for inviting us here today to participate in these proceedings.

On this cold autumn day, in this hallowed place of honor, we gather to convey our nation's gratitude for those who risked their lives for the land, the people, and the ideals they loved. At the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, the guns fell silent and the First World War drew to an end. Ever since, Americans have set aside November 11th to honor our veterans whose footsteps set the pace of freedom's march.


From our fiery birth in 1776 to freedom's latest triumphs in the Persian Gulf, America's veterans have always answered the call and given their all whenever tyrants and despots imperiled freedom and democracy. They called World War I “the war to end all wars,” but that was not to be. The Earth was engulfed a second time and Americans rose up again to defend their homeland and liberate two continents. Fifty years later the memorial to World War II veterans is all around us, an America strong and proud, her proud example lighting the way to liberty.


And yet even with that war's end, freedom's work was not complete. First in Korea and then in Vietnam, two more generations of Americans responded with determination and vigor. And today, on this Veterans Day, we owe a special debt to the men and women of Desert Storm. They went proudly, willingly, on a mission of high principle and noble purpose to defeat aggression and defend freedom. They freed a captive nation and set America free by renewing our faith in ourselves.


And in this victory America rallied behind those who served in Desert Storm, and in a wonderful way, they rallied behind those who so proudly served in Vietnam. It was long overdue, and it was good for the nation's soul. America holds a special place in history. As we preserved and strengthened our own democracy, we've sought to extend the blessings of liberty throughout the world. The ideals on which this great Nation was founded have taken root in new and fertile lands.


In the Western Hemisphere, 98 percent of the people now live in democracies. In Africa, people line up to vote as one-man states collapse. Europeans, East and West, unite in ways never thought possible. Age-old enemies of the Middle East finally sit face to face to seek an end to their bitter strife.  And the time is coming when the last few totalitarian states will fade into historical oblivion.


The United States will always be a force for peace in the world. But the peace we seek is a real peace. The triumph of freedom, and prosperity, not merely the absence of war. We can never know which war will be the last. But we take as our hope the prophecy of Isaiah, that “nations shall not lift sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore.” And yes, we hope, we pray, that as the years progress, the face of war will recede into our distant memory. But the memory of our veterans and their sacrifice will never fade.


President Coolidge said long ago, “The nation which forgets its defenders will itself be forgotten.” We will not forget. America will not forget. We will not forget those who died. We will not forget those who do the hard work of freedom every day. And we will never forget the POW's and the MIA's yet to be accounted for.


A year from now, 100 years from now, citizens will come here on November 11th to remember. And yet we cannot confine our obligation to a single day. We must always remember the importance of preparedness and the high cost of liberty.


For more than 50 years, 24 hours a day, a lone sentinel has kept a silent vigil aside the Tomb of the Unknowns. And recently, one of the outstanding men who guard the tomb was asked what is it like here at night, alone, in the quiet of this place. And he said he felt a kinship to the men resting here; that this was where he wanted to be, here to honor his comrades and all they represent. “Sometimes,” this young PFC said, “The rain streaks in your eyes or your fingers go numb from cold, but then I think about what they suffered through. And after that my duty doesn't seem hard at all.”


There's a poem the honor guards learn that says it all. “You are guarding the world's most precious gifts. You, you alone, are the symbol of 250 million people who wish to show their gratitude. And you will march through the rain, the snow, and the heat to prove it.”


To the men and women of our Armed Forces and to all our veterans, know that you have your country’s gratitude on Veterans Day and every day of the year. And may God Bless America and the veterans who keep her free.


Thank you very much.

  

[Lincoln Republican]

Tuesday, November 12, one week after the election, President Elect Rockefeller makes the following statement from his transition office in DC at a press conference.

Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for coming here today.

In order to be able to dedicate my full time to the transition, I have today submitted my resignation as United States Senator from the state of New York.  This resignation takes effect immediately.  Vice President Gore, who is the President of the Senate, and Governor Pataki have been officially advised in this matter.

It has been my privilege and honor to serve the people of New York and the people of the United States as a member of the Senate since 1989.

It has as well been my privilege and honor to serve with so many dedicated and capable public servants, my fellow Senators.  I will always appreciate the cooperation that I received from other Senators in both parties in moving forward legislation for the good of the nation.  As President, I will be taking this spirit of cooperation into the White House with me, as a guiding principle in reaching across party lines, working across the aisle, working in harmony with members of my own party, and coming to common concensus  in order to better expedite the people's business.

Mr. President Elect, we understand that while you were in Albany last week you visited with Governor Pataki.  Can you advise us as to the essence of your discussion with the Governor, and did you discuss with the Governor possible replacements to fill this Senate vacancy?

Yes, I did meet with Governor Pataki.  I intend to meet with all the Governors one on one over time.  The Governors play a vital role in this country in determining the direction the states, hence the nation, to some extent, will be taking in the future.

The ultimate decision as to who will replace me in the Senate will be made by Governor Pataki.  I am not in a position to discuss this matter beyond that.  This decision will be made by the Governor, not me.

Mr. President Elect, do you have any concerns that some of the more conservtive members of your own party may not be as cooperative as you might like, given your moderate to even liberal record as a Governor and as a Senator?

As President, my aim will be to work with a united Congress, not a divided one.  Where we have concensus, we will move forward.  Where we have areas of disagreement, we will discuss them openly, honestly and frankly.  I will be reaching out to all Congressional members of my party, regardless of ideology, as well as to Democrats, in order to get the work of the nation done.

Thank you ladies and gentlemen for coming here today.    

  

[Lincoln Republican]

This is CNN.  I'm Bernard Shaw, CNN News Anchor.

Tonight, in our first segment, we will be discussing the 1996 Presidential election, from the perspective of a political pollster.

Tonight, we have as our guest contributor prominent political pollster and analyst Preston Salisbury.  

Welcome to the program Preston.

Thanks Bernie.  Great to be here to discuss this fascinating election.

Preston, can you review your numbers for our viewers, and explain what it was that led to the Rockefeller victory.

Bernie, this election attracted record turnouts across the country.  Out of a total of over 100,000,000 votes cast, Benson Rockefeller and Liddy Dole finished with an edge of slightly more than just 300,000 in the popular vote over Bill Clinton and Al Gore.  Extremely close.

When we look at the vote breakdown, we find some fascinating numbers.

Men favored Rockefeller over Clinton 54% to 43%
Women favored Clinton over Rockefeller 52% to 45%

Bernie, a huge reason for the Rockefeller victory is due to women voters, who supported Rockefeller in larger numbers than they normally would have in a close election.  The reason?  Two words, Liddy Dole.  It was Dole who attracted a larger percentage of women to the Republican ticket.  

White voters favored Rockefeller 55% to 42% for Clinton.  True to form in Presidential elections.  

However, what is fascinating is the black vote.  The Democrat normally enjoys a 90% to 9 or 10% for the Republican.  However, in this election, Rockefeller attracted a full 13% of the black vote, a phenomenal showing for a Republican.  Clinton received 86% of the black vote.  You look at these numbers, and they gave Rockefeller a real boost.  The very public endorsement by Coretta Scott King for Rockefeller helped these numbers along considerably.

Bernie, North Carolina went for Rockefeller by a relatively narrow margin, while Clinton virtually swept the rest of the south, with the notable exception of Virginia.  I have been saying for some time, as you know, that if there was any state in the south that would go for Rockefeller it would be Virginia.  But I am of the strong opinion that North Carolina, in an election such as this, where Clinton was sweeping the south, would as well have gone for Clinton, but for one reason.  Liddy Dole.  Time after time, the reason voters were voting for Rockefeller was because Liddy Dole was on the ticket.  Without North Carolina in the Rockefeller column, Clinton wins the election.

Bernie, by picking Liddy Dole for Vice President, Benson Rockefeller is either the shrewdest politician in the country, or the luckiest.  His selection of Dole was either political inspiration, or the biggest streak of good luck any Presidential nominee has had in generations.  Liddy Dole was responsible for Rockefeller winning North Carolina.  Rockefeller owes Liddy Dole big time.

Preston, thank you so much for being with us tonight.  

My pleasure Bernie.            

[Lincoln Republican]

This is CNN.  I am CNN News Anchor Bernard Shaw.

We now take you live to the New York state capitol in Albany, where Governor George Pataki is to make an important announcement.

Good afternoon ladies an gentlemen.  Thank you for joining us here today.

As you know, former Senator, now President Elect Benson Rockefeller has resigned from the United States Senate as a Senator from New York, in order to devote his full time to the transition.  I would like to personally thank President Elect Rockefeller for his outstanding service to this state and to this nation during his many years of public service, as Governor and as Senator, as well as the other public offices he has served in, and I look forward to working with President Rockefeller in the months and years ahead.

Upon the resignation of the President Elect from the United States Senate, this of course creates a vacancy, which is my responsibility and constitutional duty to fill.  I have reviewed the qualifications and experience of many individuals who have the potential to fill this vacancy and who would make outstanding Senators to represent the great state of New York in the United States Senate.

Following a very in depth selection process, I have decided on a replacement, taking into consideration experience, capability, knowledge, and dedication to public service.  Ladies and gentlemen, I am very pleased to introduce to you the next United States Senator for the state of New York, State Senator Grayson Rockefeller II.

At that point, New York State Senator Grayson Rockefeller II, the son of President Elect Rockefeller, walks to the podium with is wife, hand in hand, and stands to the right of Governor Pataki.

Senator Grayson Rockefeller is a very talented, intelligent, capable, and dedicated public servant.  He has proven his leadership and abilities in the New York State Senate.  He has brought opposing factions together to work on, and to pass legislation that was in the best interests of the people of New York.  

Grayson Rockefeller is a lawyer by profession, and before being elected to the State Senate, he has represented many New Yorkers in court and in other cases, and Grayson will not tell you this, but I will, he has represented many, many people free of charge, who could not afford the services of a good attorney.        

Senator, the podium is yours.

Thank you Governor, and thank you for that very kind introduction.  First of all, let me say, that I am indeed humbled and honored to accept this sacred trust to represent the wonderful people of the great state of New York in the United States Senate.  Thank you Governor for affording me this tremendous opportunity and responsibility, and believe me, I take this responsibility very sriously.  

The best interests of the people of the state of New York and of this nation will always be first and foremost and top of mind as I serve in the United States Senate.

Ladies and gentlemen, thank you very much.              

[Lincoln Republican]

Reporters at the Senate announcement have some questions for the Governor and the new Senator.

Governor, did you discuss the appointment of Grayson Rockefeller at all with President Elect Benson Rockefeller before making the selection and before making this announcement?

The President Elect and I did meet after his speech at the New York State Assembly on November 9.  This is a matter of public record.  Mr. Rockefeller advised me that he would be resigning from the United States Senate on November 12, which he did with his announcement on that date.  Of course, as Mr. Rockefeller was a member of United States Senate from New York, and was running for President, with a reasonable chance of winning the Presidency, I began the deliberation process months ago as to who would be the best candidate to replace Mr. Rockefeller in the United States Senate, should he win the Presidency.  So this is not a process that I just began on November 6.  This process began months ago.

I can tell you that the President Elect did not influence me in any way in the selection of State Senator Grayson Rockefeller to become the new Senator from New York.  The decision was mine and mine alone.

Senator Rockefeller, congratulations on your appointment.  As a member of the United States Senate, if you find yourself in a position where you fundamentally disagree with your father, the President, on an issue, will this present you with a conflict?

Thank you for your congratulations on my appointment.  Much apreciated.  To answer your question, should there be areas of disagreement between me as a United States Senator and my father as the President, I will always side with what I believe to be in the best interests of the people of the state of New York and of the people of the United States.

Senator Rockefeller, do you consider yourself to be the most qualified candidate to fill this Senate vacancy?

Boy, you get right to the heart of the matter, don't you.

Laughs from the Senator, Governor, press, and the others in attendance.

Well, apparently Governor Pataki does, as he glances over to Pataki, smiling.

Laughs from the Senator, Governor, press, and the others in attendance.

Let me say, there are many New Yorkers who could and would make excellent Senators for this state.

However, as I said, I am honored to accept this responsibility.  I believe that my experience, background and knowledge of the issues facing this state and this nation give me the background to be an effective voice for the people of New York in the United States Senate.

Senator, do you believe that the President Elect resigned at this time from the Senate in part so the new Senator from New York would have seniority over the newly elected Senators who will take office in January?

The President Elect resigned from the Senate in order, as he said, to dedicate his time to the transition.  The fact this provides me with seniority over newly elected Senators is a bonus.

Laughs from those in attendance.

Governor Pataki takes the podium.

Thank you Senator Rockefeller.  Thank you members of the press, and thank you to all those in attendance today.

           

[Lincoln Republican]

Alabama Democratic Senator Howell Heflin is asked by reporters his view of the Grayson Rockefeller appointment to the Senate.

Ah've known Ben Rockefella a long, long tyme, goin' back to the days when ah was a law professer, goin' back to the tyme he was in cabinet, and servin' with him in the Senate, and ah know how he operates.  

Ben Rockefella has a knack for gettin' what he wants, and as sure as ah'm standin' here in front of ya'all, Ben Rockefella was behynd the appointment of his son, Grayson, to the U.S. Senate.  Ah'm sure of it.

Now, don't get me wrong, Grayson is a very smart and savvy young man, tho' we don't need anotha northeast librul in the Senate, but he has the ability to do well in the Senate, but his dad, the next President, ah know had a lot to do with his appointment.

This is blatant cronyism ladies and gentlemen, blatant cronyism.  

[Lincoln Republican]

Good evening, this is CNN news.  I'm Bernard Shaw, News Anchor.

Today in the news, Alabama Democratic Senator Howell Heflin lashes out at the Grayson Rockefeller appointment to the United States Senate, to fill the New York Senate vacancy of his father, Benson Rockefeller, who will become President in January.

In a heated exchange today on Capitol Hill, Senator Heflin accused President Elect Rockefeller of blatant political interference in the selection of his son Grayson to fill the Senate vacancy.

On Capitol Hill in Washington DC, in the Senate lobby, we go to our reporter, Penelope Rodriguez, who was at the Heflin event today.

Penelope, what do you believe was behind the Heflin criticism today?

Bernie, as the Senator said, he has known President Elect Rockefeller for a long time.  He says he knows how  Benson Rockefeller works, and that he is convinced that he was behind this appointment.  

Here is footage of the Heflin statement.

Bernie, Senator Heflin was obviously agitated  by what he believes to be political interference on the part of President Elect Benson Rockefeller.

The President Elect has not yet taken office, and thanks to the Heflin statement today, is already embroiled in political controversy.

Bernie.

Thanks Penelope.

We will continue to follow this story as it unfolds.

In other news..........

[Lincoln Republican]

Just asking (so don't agressive as usual ): in TTL Heflin haven't retired in 1996?

Kalwejt, thank you for the question.

In this TL, as in real life, Heflin is in his last term as a U.S. Senator.  He leaves the Senate in January of 1997.  But in November, 1996, of course, he is still a sitting Senator, and he is firmly convinced that Benson Rockefeller influenced Governor Pataki to appoint Grayson Rockefeller to fill the Senate vacancy.