2-3-4 Challenge Book Discussions #2 discussion

Nick is requested to fill out John’s remaining one year of his term. Did you see that coming?

No, I didn't see that coming. Having had both California Senators appointed the prize goes to whoever the governor can control and a higher profile person than a Chief of Staff, even as connected as Nick is.

I did not think that Nick had that necessary high profile for the California governor to choose him. Maybe the Gov expected two "more worthy" candidates to vie for the elected position?

I didn’t see it coming either but Graham has lots of influence and power. Nick is like a son to him so I should have seen it coming. The power and influence the Governor and party leaders feel comes from him.

There were a lot of excuses as to why the other more seasoned politicians weren't available or suitable. This decision requires a lot of suspension of disbelief.

In my old job, I covered Virginia for my company’s government relations. This was all about Graham. He’d served his term leaving with strong enough of a legacy that his son then took the seat. Him stepping in and “owning” Nick as his son? The sympathy factor would be off the charts. It was believable. Virginians like legacies.

I guess Californians are more political vultures than interested in legacies.

California is such a big state and the politics are all over the place by region. Virginia is more moderate and like bipartisan politics. The legislature even has what they called a Gang of Four (back in the day) that made sure nothing crazy ever got passed. The state has a rich history with lots of traditions they protect. There are some segments that swing extreme on both sides but it’s a pretty productive legislature.

Jonetta wrote: "The sympathy factor would be off the charts. It was believable. Virginians like legacies.."

Good point.

Jonetta wrote: "In my old job, I covered Virginia for my company’s government relations. This was all about Graham. He’d served his term leaving with strong enough of a legacy that his son then took the seat. Him ..."

Definitely Graham's powerful connections at work here. I wasn't surprised.

It made sense to me. Graham still had lots of power even though he retired some time ago. The Governor and others would be looking around for someone to fill the position. I'm sure Graham could pull some strings to get Nick's name to the top of the list.

I'm not sure if John's funeral was televised; but if it was, Nick gave a eulogy that everyone said was moving. I'm sure this would be his introduction to the general public and people would respond favorably.

It makes sense to me. I'm a little familiar with the area politics. I can see Nick getting the sympathy nudge.