Election of 1900: Edwardian War
As McKinley's reputation plummeted during the outbreak of the Edwardian War and the failures during the Spanish-American War, the Democratic Party found its first chance in decades to win the election. As Bryan was found unpopular with a large faction of the Democratic Party, the party split into 3 separate parties: the Popular Democratic Party, those who followed Bryan's conservative but ethical stance on domestic and economic policy, and also absorbed the Populist, Silver, and anti-imperialist parties; the Liberal Democratic Party, nominating Lockwood with her return to politics and fusing with the Equal Rights Party, while also nominating Admiral of the Navy Dewey to attract those who are disappointed by Lockwood's age and inexperience with war; and finally the Social Democratic Party, which formed out of the industrial strikes and include labor unions and Marxists.
Republican Party
William McKinley, Age 57, Current President. Vows to win the Edwardian War and collapse the British Empire and return them to democracy, stabilize the nation through strengthening the economy, and continue scientific research. Urges voters to support his renomination, as radical changes will only further destabilize the nation and weaken the war front. As his former vice-president has died, Theodore Roosevelt, the New York political reformer and Spanish-American War hero, has become his running mate.
Popular Democratic Party
William Jennings Bryan, Age 40, Nebraska Representative. Known as the "Great Commoner" for his support of farmers vs large corporations. Famed orator. Backed by those who want to add silver to the gold standard, and by anti-imperialists. Wants to grant independence to territories that only benefit corporations, such as Tasmania. Wants to fight for access to the Malinese territories, regaining Kenya for Ethiopia, and retaking Western Australia as a priority, but wants to end the war as soon as possible. Wants to lower science rate slightly to stimulate economy. Travels the nation giving several speeches per day and conversing with the masses. States that granting independence to territories such as Iraq and Mexico will reinvigorate the economy and stability of the nation while improving international relations of the United States needed for the United Nations.
Liberal Democratic Party
Belva Ann Lockwood, Age 70, Former President and current orator, humanitarian, and lawyer. Returning to politics after the Equal Rights Party agreed to not being involved in the 1896 election, reformed the party and created the Liberal Democratic Party, fighting for dominance over the other Democratic wings. Supports the war with Britain, but states that McKinley's preparation and execution of the Spanish-American War was a devastation to stability, the economy, democracy, and the military. Wants to fight a total war with Britain, choosing to end the century-old contest here and now. Promises to keep soldiers safe by using expert naval and air tactics, while focusing on diplomacy and espionage to undermine England's resources and supporters. Wants to begin declaring independence for several American possessions, such as Mexico, Colombia, Tasmania, and the Middle East.
George Dewey, Age 63, Admiral of the Navy. Regarded as a national hero for his decisive naval victories in the Pacific and the Caribbean during the Spanish-American War, and a Civil War veteran. States that, during this historic war, he is the only candidate that can bring the nation to a militaristic victory. Wants to slightly lower science rate to increase federal funds for economic stimulus needed to improve the economy and keep American territories producing enough for the war. Vows to listen to congress in order to improve order in the seemingly chaotic White House, and keep state affairs running smoothly. Controversy arose when, during the race, he stated that the next war will probably be with Germany, and also mentioned he had never voted before.
Social Democratic Party
Eugene V. Debs, Age 45, Indiana Senate politician and union leader. Leading activist in the Cristo Redentor Movement, which aimed for large-scale political reform without instability. With a history of constantly clashing with corporations and executive powers over unfair wages and working conditions, wishes to lead a large reformation and move America towards a socialist model; promising equal treatment, economic recovery and stability, and no corporate manipulation. Renown for his excellent speeches. Undecided on his stance on imperialism and the war, but would definitely grant independence to territories that only benefited corporations, such as Tasmania.
Campaign News:
Lockwood wins her fourth term and becomes the 18th president! George Dewey, Admiral of the Navy, is elected vice-president by the Liberal Democratic Convention to attract pro-imperialist, pro-war voters.
This is the first election in American history where the winning candidate has failed to gain more than half of the national vote, however! Lockwood wins only 47% of the popular vote.
Ballot:
Republican Party 3
•McKinley 3
Popular Democratic Party 0
•Bryan 0
Liberal Democratic Party 8
•Lockwood 7
•Dewey 1
Social Democratic Party 6
•Debs 6