New Eldoria

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟗: 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬

Tempestas 2, 1939, was a day marked by pressing concerns and immediate action. In the General Assembly, Acting President James Ford convened a crucial meeting with High Commissioner Gabriel Bouchard of the Commission on Electoral Affairs (CEA). The purpose of the meeting was clear: to prepare for the possibility of a presidential election should President Brooks and Vice President Gourd be unable to fulfill their duties.

As Ford entered the meeting room, his face was set in a determined expression. The weight of the situation bore heavily upon him, and the urgency of the discussions to come was evident in his stride. High Commissioner Bouchard was already present, seated at a polished mahogany table, his papers and electronic devices neatly arranged before him.

Ford took his seat at the head of the table and began without delay. "Thank you for meeting with me on such short notice, Commissioner Bouchard. We have a serious situation on our hands, and we need to be prepared for every possible outcome."

Bouchard nodded gravely, his expression reflecting the seriousness of the moment. "Of course, Acting President Ford. I understand the urgency. The recent attack on President Brooks and Vice President Gourd has certainly put us in a difficult position. According to Article III, Section 10 of the 1939 Constitution, we must be ready to conduct a new presidential election if both the President and Vice President are incapacitated."

Ford glanced at the document in front of him, the weight of the new Constitution palpable in his hands. "Yes, Article III, Section 10 clearly states that in the event the Vice President is unable to serve, the Speaker of the General Assembly shall act as President until a new President is elected. This means we need to have a plan in place for an immediate election if the situation deteriorates further."

Bouchard adjusted his glasses and opened a folder containing the Electoral Affairs' protocols. "The CEA is prepared to facilitate the election process as swiftly as possible. We have the necessary frameworks and resources to conduct a fair and efficient election. However, we need to finalize several key aspects to ensure everything runs smoothly."

"Such as?" Ford asked, his brow furrowing as he leaned forward.

"Firstly," Bouchard began, "we need to establish a timeline for the election. We must ensure that all candidates are vetted and that the election process is transparent. Additionally, we need to coordinate with the various regional offices to ensure that voting infrastructure is in place and that there are no logistical issues."

Ford nodded thoughtfully. "And what about the interim period? How do we ensure stability and continuity in government while the election is being conducted?"

Bouchard responded, "The Constitution provides a clear directive for this. As Acting President, you would remain in office until a new President is elected. During this interim period, it would be essential to maintain communication with the public and ensure that government functions continue without disruption. The CEA will work closely with your office to manage this transition."

"Understood," Ford said, his voice firm. "We need to act swiftly but also carefully. The nation is watching, and it is our responsibility to uphold the integrity of our democratic processes."

Bouchard nodded in agreement. "Absolutely. The CEA will begin preparations immediately. We will ensure that all necessary steps are taken to conduct a smooth and transparent election, should it become necessary."

As the meeting concluded, both Ford and Bouchard felt a sense of urgency tempered by a shared commitment to the principles of governance and democracy. The days ahead would be challenging, but with careful planning and decisive action, they hoped to navigate the crisis and uphold the stability of Eldoria.