The America We Deserve
- Thread starter Abraham Washington
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1: It was the best of times, it was the worst of times
Abraham Washington
Banned
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.
The year was 1999, America had won the cold war, the economy was booming, and optimism was building for the new millenium. Granted, the nation had just been through a bruising impeachment and constitutional crisis, but as the dust settled, the nation turned towards the new century and the continued prosperity it promised.
New York businessman, Donald J. Trump, saw something else.
Indeed, Donald Trump saw a different America, a tale of two cities. He saw an unsustainable system, held captive by two corrupt and out of touch parties. It was not a system built to last, and unless someone, someone bold and defiant, stood up for America, this fragile structure would crumble under the test of time.
Donald Trump was the epitomy of wealth, success and glamour in the 1980's. Everyone aspired to be like him, and even his rivals sought to emulate him and his success. He was on the top of the world, and his profits soared. He knew only victory.
But that was the Eighties, it was the Nineties now and the careful built house of cards jad crumbled as Trump faced multiple bankruptcies and skyrocketing debt. It seemed that Trump's heyday was gone, blown away by the winds of change, never to to be seen again. However, whatever your view of him may be, Trump is not a quitter.
He made a stunning comeback, and now as the 2000's dawned, he was never as strong, powerful and wealthy as he was now. Indeed, his mistakes had strengthened him, shaped him into a better person and a better businessman. Trump thought himself, that perhaps, his story was a microcosm of America's story.
In the 20th century, America only knew victory. Whether it was victory against Spain, victory in the Great War, victory in the Roaring Twenties, victory in World War Two and now victory in the Cold War, it had one hell of a lucky ride. A ride that brought it to the forefront of global politics. Indeed, America was now the only superpower remaining in the world.
But as the 21st century dawned, America faced new threats, whether it be from terrorism, from a resurgent China and ambitious East, or growing discontent at home. America needed, nay, must adapt if it wanted to maintain her place in the world.
And to do that, America couldn't rely on the same old Washington career politicians who had shaped her course over the past century and had become entrenched in the mindset of the old century, the old world.
America needed an outsider, America needed a businessman.
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.
The year was 1999, America had won the cold war, the economy was booming, and optimism was building for the new millenium. Granted, the nation had just been through a bruising impeachment and constitutional crisis, but as the dust settled, the nation turned towards the new century and the continued prosperity it promised.
New York businessman, Donald J. Trump, saw something else.
Indeed, Donald Trump saw a different America, a tale of two cities. He saw an unsustainable system, held captive by two corrupt and out of touch parties. It was not a system built to last, and unless someone, someone bold and defiant, stood up for America, this fragile structure would crumble under the test of time.
Donald Trump was the epitomy of wealth, success and glamour in the 1980's. Everyone aspired to be like him, and even his rivals sought to emulate him and his success. He was on the top of the world, and his profits soared. He knew only victory.
But that was the Eighties, it was the Nineties now and the careful built house of cards jad crumbled as Trump faced multiple bankruptcies and skyrocketing debt. It seemed that Trump's heyday was gone, blown away by the winds of change, never to to be seen again. However, whatever your view of him may be, Trump is not a quitter.
He made a stunning comeback, and now as the 2000's dawned, he was never as strong, powerful and wealthy as he was now. Indeed, his mistakes had strengthened him, shaped him into a better person and a better businessman. Trump thought himself, that perhaps, his story was a microcosm of America's story.
In the 20th century, America only knew victory. Whether it was victory against Spain, victory in the Great War, victory in the Roaring Twenties, victory in World War Two and now victory in the Cold War, it had one hell of a lucky ride. A ride that brought it to the forefront of global politics. Indeed, America was now the only superpower remaining in the world.
But as the 21st century dawned, America faced new threats, whether it be from terrorism, from a resurgent China and ambitious East, or growing discontent at home. America needed, nay, must adapt if it wanted to maintain her place in the world.
And to do that, America couldn't rely on the same old Washington career politicians who had shaped her course over the past century and had become entrenched in the mindset of the old century, the old world.
America needed an outsider, America needed a businessman.
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2: A Tale of Two Parties
Abraham Washington
Banned
A Tale of Two Parties.
Donald Trump had long flirted with running for President. As far back as 1980 he was asked about his interest in politics, and Donald Trump was very interested. He had switched from the Democrats to the Republicans in 1987 and actively considered a campaign in 1988, which he later decided against. However, he would have prefered if there were someone else out there, someone with more experience, someone with the right ideas who could turn the country back on the right track. Trump knew that politics would be brutal, and he hoped that he wouldn't have to take the plunge himself.
Reagan, Bush and Clinton went by and the nation was still as broken as ever. Indeed, nobody out there seemed to be truly honest and real. Being real was the most important thing in a person Trump believed, but nay, the politicians which he had seen come and go were only dedicated to two, selfish, things. Their pocketbook, and maintaining the two-party system.
Looking ahead to the 2000 election didn't give Trump much hope either. As the candidates declared, running around the Iowa State Fair kissing babies, two old and familiar frontrunners had developed. In 2000, the first election of a new millenium, Americans would have a Hobson's choice. Back to another Bush? Or back to the Vice-President of a mediocre Administration? Both were bland, boring, ideologically rigid and in substance virtually the same. Something needed to change.
In 2000, Trump was now fully committed and resolved to running for President. At the very least he needed to get his ideas out there. At the very best, he could do something... incredible.
Who would he run for? That was the question. Running for either the Republicans or Democrats would simply perpetuate the two-party system. As far as Trump was concerned, both were corrupt, old and far detached from the American mainstream. But run as an independent? That had never been successful. The last time anyone had come close was the fabled campaign of Ross Perot in 1992. These days Ross Perot was hardly remembered, merely a footnote in history. Trump saw no point in running as protest vote, he wouldn't be able to shake up Washington, and four years from now he wouldn't even be remembered.
However, a good friend of Donald Trump, a man from Minnesota, had shown that it was possible to beat the two-party system.
And coincidentally, Jesse Ventura called up Trump in the summer of 1999 to ask his old friend for one small request. He wanted Donald Trump to run for the nomination of the Reform Party of America.
If there was a legacy that Ross Perot left behind, it was the Reform Party. With automatic ballot access in all 50 states, and a strong national profile from Ross Perot's presidential runs, it was the perfect vehicle for a Trump candidacy. If there was a chance to once and for all shatter the two party system, now was the time.
Trump was a reluctant candidate, but if he succeeded, he could become the hero America needs, the hero America deserves. If someone new, someone different became President, maybe they could turn the country around and create...
The America We Deserve.
Donald Trump had long flirted with running for President. As far back as 1980 he was asked about his interest in politics, and Donald Trump was very interested. He had switched from the Democrats to the Republicans in 1987 and actively considered a campaign in 1988, which he later decided against. However, he would have prefered if there were someone else out there, someone with more experience, someone with the right ideas who could turn the country back on the right track. Trump knew that politics would be brutal, and he hoped that he wouldn't have to take the plunge himself.
Reagan, Bush and Clinton went by and the nation was still as broken as ever. Indeed, nobody out there seemed to be truly honest and real. Being real was the most important thing in a person Trump believed, but nay, the politicians which he had seen come and go were only dedicated to two, selfish, things. Their pocketbook, and maintaining the two-party system.
Looking ahead to the 2000 election didn't give Trump much hope either. As the candidates declared, running around the Iowa State Fair kissing babies, two old and familiar frontrunners had developed. In 2000, the first election of a new millenium, Americans would have a Hobson's choice. Back to another Bush? Or back to the Vice-President of a mediocre Administration? Both were bland, boring, ideologically rigid and in substance virtually the same. Something needed to change.
In 2000, Trump was now fully committed and resolved to running for President. At the very least he needed to get his ideas out there. At the very best, he could do something... incredible.
Who would he run for? That was the question. Running for either the Republicans or Democrats would simply perpetuate the two-party system. As far as Trump was concerned, both were corrupt, old and far detached from the American mainstream. But run as an independent? That had never been successful. The last time anyone had come close was the fabled campaign of Ross Perot in 1992. These days Ross Perot was hardly remembered, merely a footnote in history. Trump saw no point in running as protest vote, he wouldn't be able to shake up Washington, and four years from now he wouldn't even be remembered.
However, a good friend of Donald Trump, a man from Minnesota, had shown that it was possible to beat the two-party system.
And coincidentally, Jesse Ventura called up Trump in the summer of 1999 to ask his old friend for one small request. He wanted Donald Trump to run for the nomination of the Reform Party of America.
If there was a legacy that Ross Perot left behind, it was the Reform Party. With automatic ballot access in all 50 states, and a strong national profile from Ross Perot's presidential runs, it was the perfect vehicle for a Trump candidacy. If there was a chance to once and for all shatter the two party system, now was the time.
Trump was a reluctant candidate, but if he succeeded, he could become the hero America needs, the hero America deserves. If someone new, someone different became President, maybe they could turn the country around and create...
The America We Deserve.
3: To be or not to be
Abraham Washington
Banned
To be or not to be.
Donald Trump was now actively considering a run and by Labor day he was getting ready to form an exploratory committee. The question now was whether a run was feasible, and to do answer that question, Trump would have to test the waters first. He placed the phone back on the receiver and started getting work. He decided to talk with his children, and his partner Melania. Meeting with his staff, and maybe find a campaign manager...
Trump then suddenly had an idea. He picked up the phone and started rapidly dialing a number, the number for the offices of the New York Times.
The media coverage was astonishing, the New York Times and several other newspapers had already picked up the story. Speculation was abuzz and the New York Times even published a poll in the following week's issue.
Certainly these results were very pleasing to Mr. Trump, it demonstrated that not only that he was the favourite for the Reform party nomination, but also that a Presidential run was very feasible and that he a good shot of winning the Presidency. He forwarded these poll results to Jesse Ventura as well as Roger Stone, who he offered the job of Campaign Manager.
In the mean time, he would officially form the Trump 2000 Exploratory Committee, and continue work on a new book he intended to publish by the new year. The America We Deserve.
However, if Donald Trump was going to be the President, he needed a First Lady. It took some time, but he finally made up his mind and on September 24th, he proposed to his girlfriend, Melania Knauss.
Donald Trump was now actively considering a run and by Labor day he was getting ready to form an exploratory committee. The question now was whether a run was feasible, and to do answer that question, Trump would have to test the waters first. He placed the phone back on the receiver and started getting work. He decided to talk with his children, and his partner Melania. Meeting with his staff, and maybe find a campaign manager...
Trump then suddenly had an idea. He picked up the phone and started rapidly dialing a number, the number for the offices of the New York Times.
The media coverage was astonishing, the New York Times and several other newspapers had already picked up the story. Speculation was abuzz and the New York Times even published a poll in the following week's issue.
Reform Party:
Donald Trump - 41%
Pat Buchanan - 30%
Richard Lamm - 18%
Others - 11%
General Election:
George W. Bush (R) - 41%
Albert A. Gore (D) - 41%
Donald J. Trump (I) - 17%
Donald Trump - 41%
Pat Buchanan - 30%
Richard Lamm - 18%
Others - 11%
General Election:
George W. Bush (R) - 41%
Albert A. Gore (D) - 41%
Donald J. Trump (I) - 17%
Certainly these results were very pleasing to Mr. Trump, it demonstrated that not only that he was the favourite for the Reform party nomination, but also that a Presidential run was very feasible and that he a good shot of winning the Presidency. He forwarded these poll results to Jesse Ventura as well as Roger Stone, who he offered the job of Campaign Manager.
In the mean time, he would officially form the Trump 2000 Exploratory Committee, and continue work on a new book he intended to publish by the new year. The America We Deserve.
However, if Donald Trump was going to be the President, he needed a First Lady. It took some time, but he finally made up his mind and on September 24th, he proposed to his girlfriend, Melania Knauss.
4: Seize the Day
Abraham Washington
Banned
Seize The Day
At first, many didn't see Trump as a serious candidate. In fact, many of the established politicians laughed him off, and late night TV treated him like a punch line. Many believed that Trump's exploratory committee was a way to attract publicity, and advertise his businesses. Trump was determined to prove them wrong, and he began forming a campaign team.
It was decided that Trump would officially declare his candidacy in the new year, after the publishing of his de facto campaign manifesto The America We Deserve. In the mean time, Donald Trump began giving television interviews, especially with CNN's Larry King, and whole host of other television personalities. He even hosted an episode of Saturday Night Live.
Trump also began filing the paperwork to appear on the ballot in several states, and made visits to California, Florida and Minnesota, the later accompanied by the state's Governor, Jesse Ventura.
Another interesting phenomenon was his popularity on the various internet bulletin boards, chat services like ICQ and on early social media like Myspace. A website, www.donaldjtrump2000.com, was created to advertise the campaign and the upcoming publication of The America We Deserve. A forum was created, which attracted a lot of internet traffic, as well as a service where one can sign up to work with the campaign. Trump took an early interest in the internet and decided to capitalize on his widespread popularity amongst "Netizens".
The speculation had also attracted a lot of media attention to the Reform primaries and networks began preparing for three way coverage of Democratic, Republican and Reform party election results. For the first time, a true three way race was forming.
At first, many didn't see Trump as a serious candidate. In fact, many of the established politicians laughed him off, and late night TV treated him like a punch line. Many believed that Trump's exploratory committee was a way to attract publicity, and advertise his businesses. Trump was determined to prove them wrong, and he began forming a campaign team.
It was decided that Trump would officially declare his candidacy in the new year, after the publishing of his de facto campaign manifesto The America We Deserve. In the mean time, Donald Trump began giving television interviews, especially with CNN's Larry King, and whole host of other television personalities. He even hosted an episode of Saturday Night Live.
Trump also began filing the paperwork to appear on the ballot in several states, and made visits to California, Florida and Minnesota, the later accompanied by the state's Governor, Jesse Ventura.
Another interesting phenomenon was his popularity on the various internet bulletin boards, chat services like ICQ and on early social media like Myspace. A website, www.donaldjtrump2000.com, was created to advertise the campaign and the upcoming publication of The America We Deserve. A forum was created, which attracted a lot of internet traffic, as well as a service where one can sign up to work with the campaign. Trump took an early interest in the internet and decided to capitalize on his widespread popularity amongst "Netizens".
The speculation had also attracted a lot of media attention to the Reform primaries and networks began preparing for three way coverage of Democratic, Republican and Reform party election results. For the first time, a true three way race was forming.
Trump also attracted attention with his bold policy proposals, and colourful public appearances that were quite different to the average politician. He proposed major tax reform to kick start the economy. He proposed the loosening of federal regulations, and the renegotiation of trade deals such as NAFTA. He also proudly announced his support for single-payer healthcare.
Trump's political views were considered centrist and he appealed to both sides of the political spectrum. Many turned to him as an alternative to the "establishment".
Trump's political views were considered centrist and he appealed to both sides of the political spectrum. Many turned to him as an alternative to the "establishment".
He also attracted attention with his political rallies, one where he spoke before the Cuban American National Foundation. He was greeted by thousands of supporters, waving Trump 2000 signs and shouting "Viva Donald Trump". In delivered his first major foreign policy speech which he capped with...
Donald Trump was covered extensively by the media, and he was also the subject of several Saturday Night Live skits. Some criticized his campaign as an example of how politics has become simple entertainment. His supporters called him a man of the people and the only one who could unite the divided Reform party.
Nevertheless, when The America We Deserve was released, it became a best seller.
Donald Trump was covered extensively by the media, and he was also the subject of several Saturday Night Live skits. Some criticized his campaign as an example of how politics has become simple entertainment. His supporters called him a man of the people and the only one who could unite the divided Reform party.
Nevertheless, when The America We Deserve was released, it became a best seller.
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5: The America We Deserve
Abraham Washington
Banned
The America We Deserve
On the 5th of January, 2000, The America We Deserve hit the shelves nationwide and immediately became a best seller. Americans, whether they were interested in politics or not, were eager to learn about the man who could be their next President and what he was prosposing for the nation. The book was the de facto manifesto of Trump's campaign and in great detail he wrote about his ideas for the country, how he would go about achieving them and how he could unite the country.
It detailed his hardline positions on crime and immigration, but also his tolerance for diversity and support for hate crime legislation. He expressed his support for school choice, but also his support for universal healthcare. He wanted to simplify the tax code, and pay down the debt, all the while protecting American national security. In addition, it detailed his support for fairer trade deals, as well as a realignment of American foreign policy away from chess player to dealmaker. He also criticized his opponent, Pat Buchanan.
Notably, it predicted the failed hijackings of September 11th.
The new book was a smashing success, and it appealed to Trump's supporters as well as the general public at large. Some even called it "the new Art of The Deal". It perfectly laid the ground for Trump's later candidacy and attracted attention and good publicity. After the release of the book, Donald Trump dramatically retook the lead in Reform Primary polling and hit an astonishing 25% in a general election poll.
Trump had gathered his campaign team, his most trusted advisors, his loyal allies. He was ready to take the plunge. Donald Trump felt that his whole life had led up to this moment. He felt more adrenaline than he had ever felt in his life. This was the real deal, he had a chance to reshape American history, change the nation for the better. Deliver his countrymen the America that they deserved.
On the 7th of January, 2000, Donald John Trump descended the escalator in the lobby of Trump Tower...
On the 5th of January, 2000, The America We Deserve hit the shelves nationwide and immediately became a best seller. Americans, whether they were interested in politics or not, were eager to learn about the man who could be their next President and what he was prosposing for the nation. The book was the de facto manifesto of Trump's campaign and in great detail he wrote about his ideas for the country, how he would go about achieving them and how he could unite the country.
It detailed his hardline positions on crime and immigration, but also his tolerance for diversity and support for hate crime legislation. He expressed his support for school choice, but also his support for universal healthcare. He wanted to simplify the tax code, and pay down the debt, all the while protecting American national security. In addition, it detailed his support for fairer trade deals, as well as a realignment of American foreign policy away from chess player to dealmaker. He also criticized his opponent, Pat Buchanan.
Notably, it predicted the failed hijackings of September 11th.
The new book was a smashing success, and it appealed to Trump's supporters as well as the general public at large. Some even called it "the new Art of The Deal". It perfectly laid the ground for Trump's later candidacy and attracted attention and good publicity. After the release of the book, Donald Trump dramatically retook the lead in Reform Primary polling and hit an astonishing 25% in a general election poll.
Trump had gathered his campaign team, his most trusted advisors, his loyal allies. He was ready to take the plunge. Donald Trump felt that his whole life had led up to this moment. He felt more adrenaline than he had ever felt in his life. This was the real deal, he had a chance to reshape American history, change the nation for the better. Deliver his countrymen the America that they deserved.
On the 7th of January, 2000, Donald John Trump descended the escalator in the lobby of Trump Tower...
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6: Trump for America
Abraham Washington
Banned
Trump for America
It was official, Donald Trump was running for President of the United States. The media was abuzz in exicitement, Trump had the potential to be another Ross Perot, another Teddy Roosevelt or even, the next President of the United States. It was definitely and exciting time to be a journalist and Trump's campaign caught the attention of most of the nation. Interest in politics was at an all time high, and despite all the criticism, nobody could dispute that Trump was a masterful showman and strong contender.
Pat Buchanan, Trump's chief rival for the nomination hit out, calling Trump a "phony" and an "elitist". Trump responded by calling Buchanan a "nazi", a "loser" and questioning his ties to lobbyists. He positioned himself as the most electable candidate, and the only one who could unite the Reform party. The Reform party was indeed in a serious schism, one that threatened to tear the young party apart.
The original plan for the primaries was to have a national mail-in ballot, but the idea was scrapped in favour of holding seperate primaries and caucuses, at the same time as Democratic and Republican primaries. Networks was busy, readying for a three way coverage of the Republican, Democratic and Reform Iowa caucuses. In addition, a nationwide televised debate between Donald Trump and Pat Buchanan was also scheduled.
In new polls released ahead of the Iowa caucus, Pat Buchanan was shown to have taken a convincing lead, worrying the Trump campaign. However, in later primary states, Donald Trump was the one with the advantage. Pat Buchanan was even more concerned about this, he knew that if he remained a regional candidate he could not win, and that he would need to expand his appeal in the delegate rich large states and dampen Donald Trump's appeal.
This is why Pat Buchanan left Iowa and began campaigning in states like Florida, Michigan and California, building up a strong ground game there, and solidifying his ground game in Iowa. Donald Trump on the other hand did not have a ground game, preferring to rely on rallies, barnstorming, TV ads and extensive media coverage. For such a rich real estate magnate, it was notable that he chose to spend so little of his money, and refuse to accept any donor's money. For Trump, this was one of his main selling points, that he couldn't be bought.
Donald Trump was practicing a radical new form of campaigning, alien to America perhaps but distinctly familiar to other nation's politics. His style of campaigning was decidedly non-presidential, relying in energetic campaigning and rallies rather than ground games and photo ops. This was bold, nobody had done this before, but the media wrote it off as pure inexperience.
In fact the media narrative was that despite Trump's poll numbers, he would be unable to overcome the Buchanan machine, and it's extensive ground game. That he would drop out quickly after defeat in Iowa and other states, where Buchanan would gather momentum. However, Trump was still the frontrunner, and that worried Buchanan. Despite all the controversial statements, and the lack of a ground game, Buchanan still lagged in many polls.
To remedy this, Buchanan decided to appeal to values voters and the public at large with an aggressive, targeted ad campaign, painting Trump as a "womanizer" and "immoral". This attack on Trump's character was controversial, but effective and Buchanan began taking the lead in important states. In addition, several lawsuits were filed against Trump and his businesses, sending his campaign into supposed freefall.
The media said that it was over for Trump. That this was the end. That the pressure of a real campaign would get to him, that he was thin skinned and couldn't handle criticism and attack. This was the largest misconception about Trump, and in hindsight it seems laughable that some within the media, and within Buchanan's campaign would make this assumption considering that Trump was no stranger to media coverage.
Instead, Trump held a press conference on January 21st, the day of the debate, hitting out at his opponent and defending his character. He called out Buchanan for his negative and bitter tactics, and decried the unfair media coverage. He said that he "was never a quitter", and was in it to win it. He seemed dead serious on winning the election.
And it was on that day something changed. For several months, many people had thought Trump was not serious, and was doing this for publicity. The press conference changed all that and people began taking him seriously, very seriously. And the America public were taking his side. Why did Trump deserve such unfair treatment? Why did Buchanan need to go so low?
Trump had promised from now on to "focus on the issues", and the biggest test of that would be that night's debate.
It was official, Donald Trump was running for President of the United States. The media was abuzz in exicitement, Trump had the potential to be another Ross Perot, another Teddy Roosevelt or even, the next President of the United States. It was definitely and exciting time to be a journalist and Trump's campaign caught the attention of most of the nation. Interest in politics was at an all time high, and despite all the criticism, nobody could dispute that Trump was a masterful showman and strong contender.
Pat Buchanan, Trump's chief rival for the nomination hit out, calling Trump a "phony" and an "elitist". Trump responded by calling Buchanan a "nazi", a "loser" and questioning his ties to lobbyists. He positioned himself as the most electable candidate, and the only one who could unite the Reform party. The Reform party was indeed in a serious schism, one that threatened to tear the young party apart.
The original plan for the primaries was to have a national mail-in ballot, but the idea was scrapped in favour of holding seperate primaries and caucuses, at the same time as Democratic and Republican primaries. Networks was busy, readying for a three way coverage of the Republican, Democratic and Reform Iowa caucuses. In addition, a nationwide televised debate between Donald Trump and Pat Buchanan was also scheduled.
In new polls released ahead of the Iowa caucus, Pat Buchanan was shown to have taken a convincing lead, worrying the Trump campaign. However, in later primary states, Donald Trump was the one with the advantage. Pat Buchanan was even more concerned about this, he knew that if he remained a regional candidate he could not win, and that he would need to expand his appeal in the delegate rich large states and dampen Donald Trump's appeal.
This is why Pat Buchanan left Iowa and began campaigning in states like Florida, Michigan and California, building up a strong ground game there, and solidifying his ground game in Iowa. Donald Trump on the other hand did not have a ground game, preferring to rely on rallies, barnstorming, TV ads and extensive media coverage. For such a rich real estate magnate, it was notable that he chose to spend so little of his money, and refuse to accept any donor's money. For Trump, this was one of his main selling points, that he couldn't be bought.
Donald Trump was practicing a radical new form of campaigning, alien to America perhaps but distinctly familiar to other nation's politics. His style of campaigning was decidedly non-presidential, relying in energetic campaigning and rallies rather than ground games and photo ops. This was bold, nobody had done this before, but the media wrote it off as pure inexperience.
In fact the media narrative was that despite Trump's poll numbers, he would be unable to overcome the Buchanan machine, and it's extensive ground game. That he would drop out quickly after defeat in Iowa and other states, where Buchanan would gather momentum. However, Trump was still the frontrunner, and that worried Buchanan. Despite all the controversial statements, and the lack of a ground game, Buchanan still lagged in many polls.
To remedy this, Buchanan decided to appeal to values voters and the public at large with an aggressive, targeted ad campaign, painting Trump as a "womanizer" and "immoral". This attack on Trump's character was controversial, but effective and Buchanan began taking the lead in important states. In addition, several lawsuits were filed against Trump and his businesses, sending his campaign into supposed freefall.
The media said that it was over for Trump. That this was the end. That the pressure of a real campaign would get to him, that he was thin skinned and couldn't handle criticism and attack. This was the largest misconception about Trump, and in hindsight it seems laughable that some within the media, and within Buchanan's campaign would make this assumption considering that Trump was no stranger to media coverage.
Instead, Trump held a press conference on January 21st, the day of the debate, hitting out at his opponent and defending his character. He called out Buchanan for his negative and bitter tactics, and decried the unfair media coverage. He said that he "was never a quitter", and was in it to win it. He seemed dead serious on winning the election.
And it was on that day something changed. For several months, many people had thought Trump was not serious, and was doing this for publicity. The press conference changed all that and people began taking him seriously, very seriously. And the America public were taking his side. Why did Trump deserve such unfair treatment? Why did Buchanan need to go so low?
Trump had promised from now on to "focus on the issues", and the biggest test of that would be that night's debate.
7: The Debates
Abraham Washington
Banned
The Debates
Debate night was here. The crowd was anxious, but thrilled as well. A tense atmosphere hung over the room, as assistants set up the mic, and tidied up the stage. The room was indeed packed, and journalists filed in at the back of the room. Cameras were being adjusted, reporters were furiously scribbling down notes.
The moderator entered the room, to applause. He sat down at his familiar chair and took out his notes. He turned around and gave a wry smile to the audience.
It was almost time. All of America would be watching, this would be the time to get his message across though Trump, as he waited in the wings. All of America would be watching. Trump was used to that.
3. 2. 1.
"Hello and welcome America to the first Reform primary debate held here, in Des Moines, Iowa."
Donald Trump and Pat Buchanan entered from opposite sides of the stage. They walked up to each other and cordially exchanged greetings, in great contrast to the rest of the campaign. They shook hands, as Trump the dealmaker, established his dominance there and then, shaking his hand firmly.
It was hard to tell who was more nervous, but it seemed it was Pat Buchanan who was anxious. He seemed somewhat meek on stage, fidgeting and shaking a little. He knew that he had no room to screw up and ruin his momemntum. Trump on the other hand was no stranger to television. He kept his composure and a straight, confident face.
The first question was addressed to Trump, a question on his character, and his fitness for the office.
Trump started off with a bold statement that put Buchanan, not Trump, on the defensive. Buchanan tried to call Trump a "conspiracy theorist", and trying to deflect. Trump reminded him of his past statements. The back and forth continued, but it seemed clear. Trump had won the first segment.
The second segment was on the economy. Buchanan criticized Trump on his tax plans, which Buchanan insisted were poor and not well thought through. Trump replied that he was a businessman, and he ought to know how the economy worked, better than "career poltico" like Buchanan. The second segment was a tie, but Trump edged out Buchanan this time.
Pat Buchanan had a very mediocre start to the debate, and it was obvious. He was very of his form, and seemed almost intimidated by The Donald. He tried to maintain his composure and hoped to score a win on the next segment, foreign policy.
This time, Buchanan attacked Trump as "interventionist", "child-like" and "inexperienced" with matters of foreign policy. Buchanan stated that America needed to be less involved in world affairs. Trump hit back by bringing up his quotes from a book, where he had criticized America's entry into World War Two. Trump called Buchanan an "appeaser" and an "apologist" while stating he agreed that America should be a dealmaker rather than interfere with other nations.
Trump's inexperience seemed to be an advantage, and Buchanan's controversial past did not stand up to scrutiny, at all.
Coming off wins in the first half of the debate, Trump seemed unstoppable. He was controversial yes, but it seemed to work in his favour and he dominated the room. Meanwhile, Buchanan's attempts to write off Trump as a joke backfired, as Trump proposed more "common sense" views as opposed to Buchanan's radical views on the issues.
In the 4th segment, Buchanan once again tried to bring the debate back to Trump's character and attempted to score a win with values voters with this strategy, stressing his social conservatism in opposition to Trump's "coastal elitism". Buchanan was doing very until he made the biggest mistake he could possibly make.
Buchanan critcized Trump for his "New York values" and in doing so angered many Americans who did not appreciate being labelled as "elitist" and "amoral".
Trump went on to talk about the brave firefighters who saved lives in the 1993 WTC bombings, and about the all the famous and great American who came out of New York, capping it off with saying, "New York values are American values".
Pat Buchanan was forced to apologize, but it was already too late, this was the knockout punch. Trump had won the debate, and had won it yuge. Historians would later compare this to the 1960 presidential debates, where a confident and assertive Trump took down a nervous and bumbling Pat Buchanan.
Public opinion polls reflected this, and polls in New York states showed that Trump had taken a decisive 40 point lead in his home state. The "New York values" gaffe sank Buchanan's candidacy and his only hope was to hold on to Iowa and rally his base.
On January 24th, the Iowa caucuses would be held...
Debate night was here. The crowd was anxious, but thrilled as well. A tense atmosphere hung over the room, as assistants set up the mic, and tidied up the stage. The room was indeed packed, and journalists filed in at the back of the room. Cameras were being adjusted, reporters were furiously scribbling down notes.
The moderator entered the room, to applause. He sat down at his familiar chair and took out his notes. He turned around and gave a wry smile to the audience.
It was almost time. All of America would be watching, this would be the time to get his message across though Trump, as he waited in the wings. All of America would be watching. Trump was used to that.
3. 2. 1.
"Hello and welcome America to the first Reform primary debate held here, in Des Moines, Iowa."
Donald Trump and Pat Buchanan entered from opposite sides of the stage. They walked up to each other and cordially exchanged greetings, in great contrast to the rest of the campaign. They shook hands, as Trump the dealmaker, established his dominance there and then, shaking his hand firmly.
It was hard to tell who was more nervous, but it seemed it was Pat Buchanan who was anxious. He seemed somewhat meek on stage, fidgeting and shaking a little. He knew that he had no room to screw up and ruin his momemntum. Trump on the other hand was no stranger to television. He kept his composure and a straight, confident face.
The first question was addressed to Trump, a question on his character, and his fitness for the office.
Trump started off with a bold statement that put Buchanan, not Trump, on the defensive. Buchanan tried to call Trump a "conspiracy theorist", and trying to deflect. Trump reminded him of his past statements. The back and forth continued, but it seemed clear. Trump had won the first segment.
The second segment was on the economy. Buchanan criticized Trump on his tax plans, which Buchanan insisted were poor and not well thought through. Trump replied that he was a businessman, and he ought to know how the economy worked, better than "career poltico" like Buchanan. The second segment was a tie, but Trump edged out Buchanan this time.
Pat Buchanan had a very mediocre start to the debate, and it was obvious. He was very of his form, and seemed almost intimidated by The Donald. He tried to maintain his composure and hoped to score a win on the next segment, foreign policy.
This time, Buchanan attacked Trump as "interventionist", "child-like" and "inexperienced" with matters of foreign policy. Buchanan stated that America needed to be less involved in world affairs. Trump hit back by bringing up his quotes from a book, where he had criticized America's entry into World War Two. Trump called Buchanan an "appeaser" and an "apologist" while stating he agreed that America should be a dealmaker rather than interfere with other nations.
Trump's inexperience seemed to be an advantage, and Buchanan's controversial past did not stand up to scrutiny, at all.
Coming off wins in the first half of the debate, Trump seemed unstoppable. He was controversial yes, but it seemed to work in his favour and he dominated the room. Meanwhile, Buchanan's attempts to write off Trump as a joke backfired, as Trump proposed more "common sense" views as opposed to Buchanan's radical views on the issues.
In the 4th segment, Buchanan once again tried to bring the debate back to Trump's character and attempted to score a win with values voters with this strategy, stressing his social conservatism in opposition to Trump's "coastal elitism". Buchanan was doing very until he made the biggest mistake he could possibly make.
Buchanan critcized Trump for his "New York values" and in doing so angered many Americans who did not appreciate being labelled as "elitist" and "amoral".
Trump went on to talk about the brave firefighters who saved lives in the 1993 WTC bombings, and about the all the famous and great American who came out of New York, capping it off with saying, "New York values are American values".
Pat Buchanan was forced to apologize, but it was already too late, this was the knockout punch. Trump had won the debate, and had won it yuge. Historians would later compare this to the 1960 presidential debates, where a confident and assertive Trump took down a nervous and bumbling Pat Buchanan.
Public opinion polls reflected this, and polls in New York states showed that Trump had taken a decisive 40 point lead in his home state. The "New York values" gaffe sank Buchanan's candidacy and his only hope was to hold on to Iowa and rally his base.
On January 24th, the Iowa caucuses would be held...
Iowa Caucuses - January 24, 2000 (PART ONE)
Abraham Washington
Banned
Iowa Caucuses - January 24, 2000
Welcome America to Decision 2000. Democrats, Republicans, and Reformers voted in caucuses in the state of Iowa today, and we will be closely covering all three races. The Republicans will be shown in red, the Democrats in blue, and Reformers in Purple.
In the Democratic primaries, Bill Bradley will attempt to score an upset win against Vice-President Gore and rally the liberal base behind him. Bush, Forbes and McCain will duke it out on the Republican side, and Trump and Buchanan on the Reform side.
We have live coverage from all of the major candidates' headquarters where they will deliver their victory or concession speeches. Of course, depending on how the night unfolds we could be in for a long ride.
Polls have closed and the first results are coming in.
Democrats:
1% of precincts reporting
Gore - 52%
Bradley - 43%
Republicans:
1% of precincts reporting
✔ Bush - 51%
Forbes - 26%
McCain - 11%
Welcome America to Decision 2000. Democrats, Republicans, and Reformers voted in caucuses in the state of Iowa today, and we will be closely covering all three races. The Republicans will be shown in red, the Democrats in blue, and Reformers in Purple.
In the Democratic primaries, Bill Bradley will attempt to score an upset win against Vice-President Gore and rally the liberal base behind him. Bush, Forbes and McCain will duke it out on the Republican side, and Trump and Buchanan on the Reform side.
We have live coverage from all of the major candidates' headquarters where they will deliver their victory or concession speeches. Of course, depending on how the night unfolds we could be in for a long ride.
Polls have closed and the first results are coming in.
Democrats:
1% of precincts reporting
Gore - 52%
Bradley - 43%
Republicans:
1% of precincts reporting
✔ Bush - 51%
Forbes - 26%
McCain - 11%
Called For Bush
Reform:
1% of precincts reporting
Buchanan - 51%
Trump - 46%
Reform:
1% of precincts reporting
Buchanan - 51%
Trump - 46%
As you can see, these are very early results, but we can call the Republican Iowa caucus for George W. Bush.
However, the Democratic and Reform primaries are too close to call. The races are closer than expected and can either Trump or Bradley pull off an upset? We will be here all night covering the candidates and the results, stay tuned.
Iowa Caucuses (PART TWO)
Abraham Washington
Banned
Welcome back to Decision 2000. The race in Iowa continues, and the Reform and Democratic races are tightening.
However, both races remain too close to call, even with 47% of precincts reporting.
Democrats:
47% of precincts reporting
Gore - 50%
Bradley - 45%
Republicans:
47% of precincts reporting
✔ Bush - 47%
Forbes - 32%
McCain - 6%
Called For Bush
Reform:
47% of precincts reporting
Buchanan - 49%
Trump - 47%
Reform:
47% of precincts reporting
Buchanan - 49%
Trump - 47%
The race is indecisive at this point, however signs are pointing towards a possible upset on the Reform side. Polls taken prior to the debate showed Iowa as a lock for Buchanan, but now Trump is inching closer and closer to victory. Bradley is also giving Gore a run for his money. It's a close race here in Iowa and anything can happen.
However, we are now going to the Bush campaign in Des Moines where Governor Bush is set to speak...
...
And we cut now to the headquarters of Senator John McCain where he is expected to make an important announcement.
...
And there you have it, citing his poor performance today, and declining poll numbers since Donald Trump entered the race, Senator McCain is dropping out, leaving Steve Forbes as Governor Bush's main opponent.
You have been watching Decision 2000, stay tuned for all the latest updates.
Iowa Caucuses (PART THREE)
Abraham Washington
Banned
Welcome back to Decision 2000. We now have an important projection to make.
Democrats:
92% of precincts reporting
✔ Gore - 49%
Bradley - 46%
Republicans:
92% of precincts reporting
✔ Bush - 47%
Forbes - 32%
McCain - 5%
Called For Bush
Reform:
92% of precincts reporting
Reform:
92% of precincts reporting
Trump - 48%
Buchanan - 48%
Buchanan - 48%
Vice-President Al Gore has won the state of Iowa. With frontrunners Gore and Bush having wrapped up their respective caucuses and boy, is it proving to be a nailbiter.
The atmosphere in the Trump camp is optimistic, even celebratory. Trump, the "comeback kid", has made an extraordinary comeback and may even win this first in the nation caucus.
...
Hold on, this just in. We can now make a major projection!
The atmosphere in the Trump camp is optimistic, even celebratory. Trump, the "comeback kid", has made an extraordinary comeback and may even win this first in the nation caucus.
...
Hold on, this just in. We can now make a major projection!
- Status