Senator Roger Lowe (![[info]](http://l-stat.livejournal.com/img/userinfo.gif){kind=small} xmm_lowe) wrote,@ 2004-05-06 22:30:00 |
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OOC Thanks to everyone who showed up! Great, great turn out, fantastic scene.
The log below is IC information! Within reason, of course. I.e. the Q and A part is completely open to the public and completely accurate. One will naturally not be able to hear any audience mutters or private thoughts. :D
How did we get such complete and reliable quality? Well, Forge did the transcript! Ah, technology.
Thoreau Hall - Emerson University
Thoreau Hall is another of the old brick buildings that seem to popular about the campus, decorated with a triangular wedge of garden out front, and a thin layer of ivy creeping up its walls as a testament to its age. Inside, a variety of wide, sunny halls complete with wood flooring lead to classrooms of English, philosophy, and film studies.
Despite the late hour, the auditorium of Thoreau Hall is almost achingly bright. But only almost. A wide banner stretches across the stage curtains, a simple black text on a white cloth -- "Senator Lowe." The Senator had received advice, some strongly, from his higher supporters to put as much emphasis on the banner as possible, wreath it in bright red white and blues and add a "For President" on the end of it, but the Senator (watching from a window over the stage, where the spotlight men normally sit, watching the crowd pile in), the Senator knows that whoever comes to this already knows very well who he is. He has five minutes before he's announced. He leaves the window. And there are butterflies in his stomach.
Jean files in at the front of the crowd, a few strings pulled and phonecalls to see to it that she's seated up near the front. Right beside an old nemesis of hers from a previous tangle over mutant rights, of course, but that's the way the cookie crumbles. Dr. Grey is looking every inch her most solemn and respectable tonight, and even the addition of young Nate Grey-Summers in a baby carrier can't quite mar the impression of Presence about her. Guarded pleasantries are exchanged on both sides with her neighbour, and then she settles in, casting about to keep an eye on various mental presences with 'Xavier's School' psychic post-it notes appended. Please, please, please behave?
Beast is well aware of the unfriendly eyes focused on his blue hairy form as he strides into the hall. Dressed impeccably in a three piece suit and a fedora he takes his place on the aisle, strategically chosen for easy exit strategies just in case. He settles down to listen with every evidence of interest.
Ceta has absolutely every intention of behaving, particularly since she's going to feel like a canary at a cat show in the middle of a gathering of Lowe supporters. She's hoping desperately that the Senator is ... well, less 'dangerous' than she's heard - and she has enough faith in human reason to be willing to hear what he has to say, and possibly add some questions of her own to the mix, if she has the chance ... but for the time being, she's sitting on the end of a row, not all the way in the back but most of the way there - close enough to the exit that she can leave quietly, if the vitriol gets to be too much for her.
Scott arrives with with Emma. He's dressed up in a dress suit, and he's sitting wherever Emma has seats for them. A nod is given to his fellows from Xavier's, and he leaves Emma's side a moment to walk over to Jean. He crouches down to wiggle his son's hand. "If you need me to take him during this just let me know Jean. It's far easier for me to leave than for you." He then rises and looks over the crowd for where Emma is.
Speaker smiles as he gets a seat right behind Jean. Yes, he's too scared to actually sit next to her, especially as this is a solemn sort of thing, she's important and the only other time he's communicated with her was...well, on an online comments post. A perky good posture swiveling his head around, he's not doing a good job as he tries to look cool and detacted. He's dressed in a pale green Oxford shirt and ironed kakhis. He doesn't have his school bag for once, because he figures, you know, it's probably not security-friendly. Is there a definite impression that he's enjoying this situation despite the seriousness of it all? Yes. Yes, very much so.
Forge slides in after Beast, in a seat behind the large, blue-furred teacher. Half for moral support and half to hide if needs be. For perhaps a different reason -- he's actually pro-Lowe, a strange and antsy stance for a mutant with his particular friend base.
Jenna is fairly casual in jeans and blouse, an air of firm purpose and determination about her. And a strong sense of mischief in her smile as she walks up an aisle o lclaim a seat for herself, not worrying too much about easy exits, or whatever sheep might be following this self-appointed shepherd. She seems to have something in mind.
And among the various college-aged and academic noteworthy's, the speech has drawn in a number of city notables curious about this fast rising name on the political scene. Well, when you run with the big-whigs, eh? Emma points out a pair of seats with placards and moves away to mingle while Scott greets his... collegues, I suppose is the correct term. "Mr. Scontanero... I must say, I'm surprised to see -you- here..." she purrs to a stocky gentleman. Strike one black mark next to his name in her book.
Nicholas strolls in, smiling faintly to himself and glancing around the room for a few moments. A few people he recognizes, so far... the priest's smile twists slightly towards a smirk, then fades before he makes his way to a decently placed seat. There are no guards with him, for once.
An announcer walks smoothly out on stage -- he's a tall man with shiny black hair and a shiny smile. He reaches the podium, surveys the crowd cheerfully, and speaks into the microphone. "I'd like to welcome you to Senator Lowe's political forum. And since he has asked me to be direct, let me skip the fanfare and step aside. Please welcome Senator Lowe to New York City!" In typical MC style, the man steps to the side of the podium and claps -- a cue to do the same for those in the audience a little slower of palm. The Senator walks out -- any butterflies invisible in his stride as he waves to the crowd and smiles.
No reason to fight for a seat when someone can just enter unnoticed. The echo of the speaking in the hall is heard from where Troy sits. Actually, he's found a high, out of the way place to enjoy the proceedings. He has no mistchief in mind, just content to sit in a window far above the floor and looking down at the event. From there, he can smoke his cigarette in peace without anyone chastising him about the hall being a non-smoking area. So that man is the senator everyone is talking about? Troy wonders if anything exciting will happen. It'll be good entertainment.
Speaker claps slowly and loudly, looking satisfactory disillusioned and cynical. Got to fit in with the bigwigs, right?
"To be honest, I'm half-hoping he stays quiet the whole time, and then spits up on Lowe if he tries to schmooze..." Jean murmurs in reply to Scott, eyes twinkling before she nods and lets him go. Settling deeper into her seat and smoothing her skirt, she awards Lowe with an impeccable few golf-claps, enough to show that she's mature about this all, before smiling politely and silencing precisely three seconds after the first clappers stop.
Leo, having taken his seat ponders clapping, and makes a small effort to, just for show. Well, the sooner this is over with, the better, but he must privately admit he's looking forward to question-time. He smiles to himself, slightly, resting his things against the floor and adjusting his glasses as he settles.
Gustav slips in almost lateish, instrument case bumping against his side. Which is probably making noise. Gritting his teeth, Gustav sits down in the first chair of the back row, which assures that he can't see anything, but he's here nevertheless. And not interrupting!
Nicholas gathers his robes about him as he settles in his seat, applauding politely but without very much enthusiasm. The Cardinal's attention is fixed on the audience rather than the Senator... who is clapping and who isn't?
Beast claps politely. After all, far be it from Dr. Henry McCoy to ignore the proper social conventions. Besides, he really is curious and intrigued to hear the good Senator's speech. Sometimes, a scientific intellect comes in very handy, not mucking about with his emotions on this day.
Scott doesn't clap. But he can use the excuse that he is still moving towards his seat. He joins Emma, giving her a smile, before turning his attention to the 'good' Senator.
Staren hurries in, .oO( Phew, just made it! ) He takes a moment to catch his breath, and then looks around for a place to sit. He sits himself next to Leo, and looks to the stage. For some reason, he's in disguise at the moment, so his friends won't recognize him.
Jenna claps. Once. You can almost feel the temperature drop around her as a couple of Lowe's fans give her less-than-friendly looks. You know, one might almost get the impression she was trying to give an impression...
Ceta waits for the people around her to start clapping before she adds her own applause, fairly slow and quiet - it's a polite gesture more than anything else, but as a Senator, Lowe deserves at least the show of respect, and Ceta knows it. She also eyes the red-robed priest somewhat warily as she sees his brightly-colored form, and mostly suppresses a grimace. . o O ( Please, not someone with 'religious' opposition to mutants ... )
After that walk -- so short to the spectators, so long to the Senator, who knows very well he's in hostile territory -- Senator Lowe mounts the podium. And quietly wishes he hadn't had the lighting keyed as he did. He wanted an open feel. He just feels exposed. But stage fright is something to be barged right through. The Senator doesn't even clear his throat before launching into the beginning. "I thank you -- I /thank/ you for coming to this forum. I know that many of you may only be here to watch me make a fool of myself, but I appreciate that your interest is so earnest. I know that some of you are here to clap when I pause and ask verifying questions and I appreciate that your support for me is so sincere. And those who are undecided -- I appreciate you the most. Because you are taking those necessary steps to find out who I am and what I stand for before voting. And, without further ado, I am going to let you ask questions. I originally planned to set out the pieces of my campaign before hand, but this is dry and I hope that more will come out through our discussion than any pre-planned speech." And, at that, Senator Lowe silences and watches the audience.
Leo murmurs quietly to Staren, "I'd save it..." before waiting for the questions to come in, not offering any of his own until he gets a better idea of the tone. He'd hoped that a speech might do that.
Speaker glances left, glances right. Do we clap again? We just clapped, for cryin' out loud. Before, that was just politeness clapping, are we supposed to enthusiastic clap now?
Jean raises her hand almost casually to get the attention of the emcee, and once she's gotten it, sits up to smile and introduce herself. "Senator Lowe, Dr. Jean Grey. I'm sure my opinion on mutant registration is fairly clear to the present company, so I'll just let you have the pulpit today: You're a proponant of mutant registration. Exactly how do you expect this to work? And how much is this going to cost the American people in terms of either tax hikes, or money diverted from more essential programs?"
Emma makes no effort to clap, but how could anyone hold it against the cool blonde who strides down the center aisle. To take her seat of course. Familiar and unfamiliar minds press in on her shields, and she quickly locates the ones belonging to students, both those there on her orders and those not, all of whom had better be on their best behavior. She doesn't want any of her pleasure spoilt by premature exploits. She slides in next to Scott, offering a brow lift at the child, but her interest is redirected by Jean's question. Oh, isn't she sweet, the political advocate.
Gustav is sitting there in the back, behind someone tall. Even if Lowe were for some reason looking for short Austrian composer-lookalikes, he would not be able to see this one. And anyway, Gustav is just sorta leaning forward and listening with wide eyes, fingers tapping his knees.
Jenna slowly licks her lips. If she's not mistaken, the Good Doctor just might have drawn blood with that one. A smirk spreads across her face. Yeah, that's probably better than what she planned to ask our friendly neighborhood fearmonger...
Staren doesn't clap for the guy. To Leo, he just responds with a quiet 'Yeah.' .oO( Hmm... I hope this doesn't go wrong. Now that's an interesting first question. )
Ceta sits quietly and listens for now, glad that Jean got the first question in, but she's also contemplating a few questions to ask of her own. She's also starting to relax somewhat; her earlier worries may well go unrealized.
Dr. Jean Grey. There's hardly a public figure Lowe was warned more about by his New York supporters. Lowe keeps composure, though -- there is a reason he's slotted this as more of a question and answer period than a shout-out -- it's more comfortable, more familiar to him. "Dr. Grey." Start with the acknowledgement. "The question of expense is a fair one -- what I must first answer, though, is the implied question of what is essential and what is not. I think that everyone here would find education essential and national defense essential. I must stand firmly on my belief that internal defense is just as essential. This is not an issue of making mutants second class citizens and using state money to do so. This is an issue of safety, for both groups. Funding -- I will not pretend I have a vast reserve of inherited money to make up the difference. There will be costs. It will not be easy. But as I have made my campaign, both funding resources and those with resources to make mutant registration /possible/ without turning it into some hateful witch hunt, have gradually come forward. There will be tax hikes, I am sure. But I am also sure that the American people are /willing/ to pay the cost for security."
Beast stands, easily one of the most recognizeable figures in the room at the current moment. He takes off his hat and holds it in one hand-- or rather, paw, shoving his wire-rim glasses further up his nose. "I am Dr. Henry McCoy, Senator Lowe. I am sure you know of my accomplishments in the private sector regarding biochemistry and physics. My question is this. What is your opinion on genetic diseases? Sport genes are responsible for Down's Syndrome and cerebral palsy among others. As a proponent of taking away mutant rights, how is it possible for you to single out certain genetic sports for registration? Logically one would therefore have to register anyone with a sport in their genetic makeup. Are you really prepared to go to those sort of extremes? Mutancy, after all, when one comes right down to it scientifically is merely a genetic defect like any other. Are you seriously suggesting registering anyone with a genetic defect as a way of keeping America safe? Surely that is a very slippery slope."
Gustav looks intently at Beast as he speaks. Genetics. Very interesting. He leans forward and fidgets with his glasses. He seems to be paying more attention to the questions than the responses.
"Ah, but Senator, you jumped neatly over how it would work. Surely if you've thought so much about it, you can do better than just 'not a witchhunt--" Jean probes more deeply, before Beast questions right over top of her. A crooked grimace, and she settles back down, biding her time and scooping Nate up to sit on her lap.
Leo frowns, hoping that the Senator might say something soon that either he or Staren will be able to jump in on, but for now he waits. No surprises yet . o (And no surprises that the Senator failed to actually answer how it would work)
Speaker suddenly has to go to the bathroom. Lousy timing, he thinks to himself as he tries to get past the people in his row and out the door as discretely as possible.
Staren.oO( Hmm, so far nothing for me to respond to with my littl act. I am most interested to hear in exactly how registration would work, yes. Done right, it could be a good thing. Done right. )
Winding his way through the crowd, the Gothic, Drake, moves slowly in a symphony of jingling chains and odd murmurs of those who glance his way and roll their eyes. His gloved hands are shoved into his pockets, spikey black hair sticking up in all directions. He murmurs soft pardons and excuse me's as he searches with his dark brown eyes for a familiar face.
"Henry McCoy." There's an obvious mutant. Lowe retains his smile. He's tried to reiterate so many times that he is not prejudiced against mutants, that there is nothing in mutants, no matter how strange or powerful, that truly makes them inhuman. But it's always different to see one that looks different. In all honesty, the Senator is glad for the interruption. The practical portion of registration is the most difficult to explain and Lowe needs the time to put that together. "There is a difference between genetic defect and mutation. A genetic defect does not allow the one bearing it, to my knowledge, able to destroy buildings or control minds. There is no reason to register someone with Down syndrome for police reasons of any sort. These are two different issues, I believe."
Ceta raises her hand, biting her lip slightly, and waits to be called on for her question.
Beast hrms. "Scientifically genetic defects are no different from each other except in their effects on the body. But this mutant registration act will affect more than just the body. Thank you, Senator." And he sits down again.
Leo raises his hand, and when noticed, asks: "My friends in the department of philosophy have a few questions which I think you'll be able to clear up. The Professor of Logic wonders, in particular wonders if you will also introduce schemes to register anybody with an IQ of over 150, due to their potential for thinking up clever and terrible terrorist plots, and anyone with a knowledge of computer programming due to their potential to create devastating computer viruses which could have the most alarming effects?"
Nicholas watches and listens, his hands folded. He's pretty much motionless, though he does nod in response to Lowe's latest remark. The man does make some sense. No questions for him right now, those that others are providing are rather interesting.
Gustav keeps listening, still leaning forward, but brows furrowed now. He's no longer directly looking at anybody or anything. At length, he quietly raises a hand, which he hopes will be noticeable from behind the tall person.
Upon catching the familiar voice of Hank, Drake steers his direction through the crowd, making his way towards him. His eyes lift upwards to stare at Lowe, eyes squinting slightly as he clicks his tongue ring slowly against his teeth. Instead of speaking out, he simply gives him the gothic 'stare', broody and angst ridden. With another murmured 'excuse me', he squeezes his way towards those he knows.
Jenna has a question of her own, but bides her time. After all, Lowe has basically dived into a piranha tank at this point. Best to wait for him to begin to pull himself out before stepping on his fingers.
Jean bends her head to Nate, hiding a smile as it appears that her continued badgering isn't even needed. A sidelong glance at one of her fellow passive resisters who helped book all the lecture halls up 'til this late night point, a silent nod exchanged, and she's back to watching Lowe with a border collie's intensity.
Lowe actually finds Leo's question mildly refreshing -- not because it's easy to answer, but because the phrasing makes him smile -- a real smile, not just a cover-up for a mind working quite hard against difficult issues. "Again, I can't see it as quite the same issue. IQ tests are, for one thing, extremely unreliable and have relatively little indication of practical intelligence. For every Einstein, there is some man with an IQ of quite average levels who will be a criminal mastermind. No, the reason why mutant registration is necessary is because of both the inherent quality of mutant powers -- some mutants cannot control their powers and should be able to be helped -- and their sheer innate destructive potential. It is not pre-emptive criminalizing of a group." Lowe acknowledges Ceta.
Beast mutters at that last response, the professional mask slipping for a moment.
Control minds? Hmhm... Senator, if you only knew. Emma settles back in her chair, crossing her legs before her and regarding the man through lowered lashes. So... we try the reasonable moderate approach? Appeal to the voters through their logic? << Please, someone ask him what safeguards he intends to enact -with- this act to protect the innocents... >> she broadcasts, not particularly desirous of drawing the public, along with Lowe's campaigners' eye to her, and thus to those associated with her.
Forge leans forward to whisper at Beast. "So ... what do you think?" His voice is rather nervous. He has a pretty decent idea of what his colleague thinks, but he's going stir crazy.
"So we'd be registering -potential-?" Jean breaks in. "In that case, Senator, I strongly urge you to have a blood test done, because you may -potentially- be carrying the genes that would father one of those terrible, menacing, powerful mutants. How would you react to being the parent of a mutant child?"
Leo nods, "Well, of course, my IQ example was just one example of non-mutants with destructive potential that are nevertheless not mentioned. But, my colleague will enjoy the nitpicking.. thank you."
Gustav hmms and lowers his hand.
Jenna raises a hand languidly, a casual smile upon her face. She waits patiently to be acknowledged, that her question might be asked, and the senator kicked back into the tank, hopefully never to surface. She almost purrs at Jean's questoin. She might not need to ask a thing here.
Ceta stands up, taking a quiet breath. "Actually, Senator, you just touched on what I wanted to ask: have you considered the fact that many mutants - almost certainly the majority - have no desire or intention to threaten those around them? How do you justify registering all identifiable mutants as a 'threat' simply because they have the genetic quirk which gives them special powers, if most of them don't intend to use their abilities to do harm?"
And Gustav quickly raises his hand again. Indecisive maybe. But it's probably hard to see him anyway.
Beast replies back to Forge, in a voice that may, perhaps, be heard a few seats over. "I think he's a short-sighted narrow-minded idiot."
Reaching out and nudging Beast lightly on the elbow, Drake throws his gloved hand up in the air, two fingers stretching upwards in a come hither gesture as he eyeballs the speaker. A slight grin forms over his lips as he begins to hum, leaning slightly against the big blue furry arm next to him.
"Yes, I have," Lowe responds to Ceta. "In fact, I know that this is a fact. I also know that there are mutants out there who do not only not see mutant registration as a direct threat to their genes, but see it as protection for /them/. Those mutants, the majority indeed, who do not intend to harm, or who have powers which are completely harmless, or both, will be as protected by the registration as people tend to perceive them harmed by it. If we know what mutants are able to do what, a mutant who causes no harm cannot be as easily prosecuted on mere rumor." Oh, Doctor Grey, you picked an easy one. Thank you. The Senator smiles. "Dr. Grey, I would react the same way as I would to any child. I do /not/, let me reiterate, I do /not/ consider mutants a menace. If I had a mutant child, I would treat them the same way I would treat any other child, only with more care because they /do/ have so much potential. I would want this child, same as any other, to be protected." Senator Lowe acknowledges Gustav, then Jenna.
Ceta sits back down, mulling over the Senator's response. . o O ( How do you justifiy a prejudicial law when you know that the prejudice itself is unreasoning ... ? )
"Ah." Forge sits back down ... then leans forward again. " . . . but supposing .." No, he sits back down and shuts up. He ain't meant for this scene.
Jean smiles and offers a "Thank you, Senator. But..." And you -know- there had to be a 'but'. "Surely a man in your position isn't unaware of political history. Exactly how do you plan to see to it that innocent mutant who come forward to register wouldn't be discriminated against? What plans have you made for informational control and security? What is to stop known mutants from being treated like known child molestors or other criminals by the public? What is to stop military researchers from pressuring mutants with 'useful' abilities into scientific trials along the lines of the 1960s experiments in psionics, except with real telepaths this time?"
Beast frowns, another thought having occured. This time, when he stands, he waits to be recognized (ah, the irony of the word) by whoever it is that's fielding the questions.
Gustav takes a few moments to realize that he's being acknowledged, but when he realize it, he adjusts his spectacles and stands--on his toes. Still hard to see him! "On vat she said," he indicates Ceta as she sits down, "und on your response...I suppose some of it has already been addressed..." but get to the point, man. His voice is not so steady. "Ja, some people may see it as protection, but some may see it as threats, und ze vay it ist treated could change from adminishtration to adminishtration, vich ist also bad. But my poit ist thus--if a mutation ist not major at all, even if it does do bad s'ings, zey vould not cause huge damage, und ze damage could be vat ist addressed on criminal charges, not ze mutation cause. Und for ze bigger powers, if someone vere to do somes'ing bad, it vould be obvious, und zey vould not haff to be registered to be pinned to ze events in some vay. But for most people mit ze bigger powers, I vould s'ink zey vere responsible or even good. Many are good und vant to help society, und zey can do zat mitout being registered. Und you mentioned people who might have powers zey cannot yet control...zat could cause bad s'ings, but zey vould be true accidents, und ze people involved couldn't be consciously blamed...All of ze results fit mitin regular laws, I s'ink. Ze registration could really zerefore be deemed unnecessary, ja? Und if it ist unnecessary, und it bothers people, zere ist no need."
Jenna lets Jean continue her line of questioning, and leys Gus speak before herself. "What makes it good this time? What makes you different fromanyone else who ever capitolized on fear to get elected? Why will it work out this time when a minority has to get registered and documented? How will forming another agency to keep closer tabs on America's own citizens make them safer? And how is a mutant any more dangerous than a disgruntled teenager who's friend's father collects guns?"
"There will be, of course, Dr. Grey, concurrent legislation to prevent this sort of thing. For that matter, registration will /not/ be widely public." Here we go. "It will be mostly federal and mostly law enforcement. Potential employers would /only/ know of a mutation if the mutant in question had a criminal record. Mutants who decided to go public would be protected by the law as any other group from discrimination. The registration would /prevent/ such pressuring as has happened in the past -- because the law would be based in keeping such uses from happening." Lowe moves to Gustav. "There are many mutants with similar powers. Supposing one who could create fire burned down a church, but the only public fire wielding mutant was innocent -- if no one knew of this other fire wielder, the wrong mutant might be prosecuted. As for those who ... help society by vigilantism, it is still vigilantism -- more mutants in law enforcement would solve this problem." And Jenna. "I am not capitalizing on fear, I am trying to address it. And this is a very legitimate fear. Now, a father who collects guns -- guns have documentation. Guns can be used as evidence. A mutant who can kill someone without a gun could go unprosecuted forever." Senator Lowe acknowledges Beast.
Nicholas hmms faintly at the point on documentation, then stands carefully himself, clasping his hands together and waiting to be acknowledged.
Scott raises his hand. "Would more mutants in law enforcement really help Senator Lowe? I remember a certain detective of the NYPD being forced off the force because people found out he was a mutant. Not that he was breaking laws, but just that he was a mutant. So I'm curious how you expect to get law enforcement to accept law abiding mutants among their ranks?"
Gustav notes, "As for mutants in law inforcement, I s'ink zey vould not get involved, because law inforcement und some politicians are unkind to zem. Until zey are integrated into normal society und treated as any citizen vould be treated, mutants vould not be accepted vell on ze force anyvay...so to treat any incidents related to mutations as one vould deal mit any crimes is a vay to assure nomal citizenship. Any normal person could set a fire, too..." And he sits.
Staren takes a deep breath. and closes his eyes for a moment. .oO( Here goes... ) He stands up. He feels slightly bad about being deceptive about his situation, but he knows that although it isn't really his situation, it _is_ the situation of other young mutants. "Uh..." he starts, then raises his voice so he can be heard. "Senator, a couple of months ago... I found out I was a mutant and--" he pulls back the hood of his hoodie, revealing his ears "--so did everyone else. Now at school, everyone either avoids me or picks on me, and everyone calls me freak or worse. My friends are afraid to be seen with me, even one who is secretly a mutant themself, just not visibly, because then they'd get treated the same way. I don't want this. I just want a normal life... How would you protect me, and others in my situation??"
Beast looks around him, catching the eyes of the friends he knows. It is his grandstand moment, unless Lowe ticks the brilliant scientist off again. The baritone voice rings out in justifiable passion. "'We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness -- That to secure these Rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just Powers from the Consent of the Governed, that whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these Ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its Foundation on such Principles, and organizing its Powers in such Form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.'" Beast finishes reciting and smiles. "Those words are quoted from the Declaration of Liberty, Senator, and I believe they are germaine, going to the heart of this issue. Mutants or no, citizens of these United States of America are entitled to the right of life, liberty and the persuit of happiness. Our *governemnt*, Senator, was originally enacted in order to ensure that those rights are protected. It appears to me that registering mutants not only restricts their lives, their liberties, and their happiness, but will also force the government into supporting a law that directly opposes the principles that this country was first founded on. Are you prepared for the Consitutional battle that will start over your act, if it hasn't already?"
Jean is not convinced, even if her next-door neighbour is nodding with a fanatic gleam to his eyes. "That's all very prettily said, Senator, but you're giving us generalizations. As President, you'll be dealing in specifics, and in realities. I know that I wouldn't be averse to hearing more than just sound and light... but that can be damaging enough as it is." Preamble given, she delves into her actual question, after a quick glance over at Logan, lounged against the back wall with folded arms. "Your campaign tour has been marked by incidences of increased anti-mutant violence in every city you stop in. And yet for all your pretty words on protection and safety, there has yet to be a single press statement from you addressing this."
Ceta tenses slightly, looking over at Staren. She has to give him credit for guts, and for putting a human face directly on the discrimination question ... then turns her full attention to Dr. McCoy, smiling at his speech, and awaits Lowe's response ...
Lowe decides to attempt to answer Scott, Gustav, and Staren in the same slew of words. He draws a breath. "Yes. Yes, there is currently severe prejudice in the police force. But if you are familiar with Brown vs. the Board of Education? The ruling that ended segregation? That is how we will end police segregation. Any mutant who wants to use their powers publically and legally for the betterment in society should have any and all back up from the federal government to make it happen. And these sorts of discrimination rulings should, in time, protect all mutants. It will not be easy or immediate. I will never claim it will be." Beast. "I'm impressed at your oratorial skills, Dr. McCoy, but I do not agree. I do not think that registration will violate mutant rights. I honestly do not. We must also keep in mind, with all due respect, that our founding fathers had no words, nor even a concept, for mutants." Jean. "Yes, this has been an unfortunate reaction, but surely there has been mutant backlash as well. And, Dr. Grey, I simply must insist at this point that we schedule a debate for later. There are many other questions." Nicholas acknowledged.
Drake continues to wave his arm back and forth as he listens to his friends 'converse' with Lowe, hopping a bit up and down on his feet. He shifts some as Beast goes into his declaration rant, glancing up at him with a bit of admiration in his eyes.
"That's precisely how you capitolize upon it, Senator." The veggiemancer chuckles, and leans back in her chair, looking around and seeing the senator's every move countered, his every logical flaw clawed at.
Nicholas eyes Beast when he goes into his quote.. and frowns slightly at the argument coming afterwards. The cardinal mumbles to himself in Italian for a few moments, looking a bit puzzled.. still standing for his own question.
As a recent transfer from Austria, Gustav is not up on his Surpreme Court cases. He remains sitting, listening and tapping his feet anxiously. His player definitely could have some good responses to the Brown v. Board of Education remark, but they would not be in character.
Nicholas nods, "Thank you, Senator." His italian accent is a bit stronger than usual, at the moment.. "I apologize for the diversion.. ah... you have spoken of documentation.. evidence, controls, and such. However.. mutation is a global issue, yes? You have laws against the transport of conventional weapons... would you also advocate a law requiring mutant nature to be declared on entry to the United States? How could you ensure that reporting is accurate.. both at customs and within the country itself?"
"I -could- pick apart your points you've just made right now, Senator Lowe," Jean notes, an easy smile on her lips as attention and a couple television cameras arrow her way for a moment at the request for a debate. "But I think I'll go easy on you tonight and save my energy. Name your time and place, and I'll surely take you up... although don't expect me to go easy on you because of my good breeding."
Beast grits his teeth, muttering with complete disregard for who can hear him and who can't, "It's not *mutant* rights I'm worried about. We're *human*. This is a *human* rights issue." Words fail him at the old arguement that the founding fathers couldn't predict the future. Then he splutters, "We're *human*. They knew enough to govern humans well. We should have the same respect for the law that they did. They were human men writing the laws for a human country, and we're *still* a human country. With humans outnumbering the mutants by some astronomical number." He has just lost all respect for this Senator Lowe. He takes his hat, gets up and stalks off, fuming. The people that he passes might be able to hear snatches of his diatribe against narrow-minded people refusing to look the facts in the face and passing acts into laws based on a slippery slope. The last thing he says is something scathing about the ultimate end game and the Third Reich.
Nicholas looks a bit pityingly at Beast as he stalks off, then shrugs lightly, smiling slightly again before he turning to wait for the Senator's reply.
Lowe has already privately decided that he is not particularly fond of Dr. Grey, but his voice remains even. "Trust me, Dr. Grey, I am not asking to be coddled. I will arrange something with you later." On to Nicholas. "I would advocate a law for such an entry, yes. Accuracy of reporting would have to be a mixture of technology, testing, and good book keeping, but, I believe, would be feasible." On to Beast . . . or not. Lowe follows the mutant out with his gaze . . . but answers him anyway. Present or not, the question hangs. "The laws have changed before according to the times. And I will reiterate that I do not think that this will strip human rights at all."
Ceta decides it's time to bring in a less controversial side of the question, and raises her hand again ..
Leo says, quietly to Staren, "Sorry, looks like you were pretty much steamrollered by everyone else, but no harm done."
Jenna speaks up once more. "I think we all know how well the end to segregation went, Senator. In parts of the south, it's like the ruling never happened. Every time these steps you advocate have been taken, it has added another black mark to the track record of all humanity. Dozens of times in nations around the world, even on this continent, even in this country, it has backfired horribly. You say you don't think it will strip human rights, I don't beleive you. You're trying to use mutants as the bogeymen to steer people who'd rather listen than think into voting for you, and I think it speaks poorly of all mankind that you have any support at all."
Drake tilts his head and watches Beast begin to stalk off, a frown crossing over his face. he lets out a quick breath and then shouts out. "Is this what I have to look forward to when I start paying my taxes? Mutant metal detectors in airports? You know what, Mister Lowe. You are going to piss off the /wrong/ mutants who aren't going to agree with your Nazi bullshit. Mutants, jews, I guess they are one and the same if it comes down to it, right? You start pushing for this racist crap, where mutants gotta sign some piece of paper to be allowed to breathe the same air as eveyrone else, and you are going to inspire some upstart KKK member to start doing the same to the black folk, then of course you can't stop there! We /have/ to segregate the rest! I don't think its mutants you need to be afraid of, its the every day joe who can whip out a gun and blow a hole in your frigg'n head!" With that, the Goth turns and starts stalking off after Hank, wading through the crowd like a shark, eyes furrowed, anger spilling in his eyes.
Forge makes a noise back in his throat and messes with something he's kept secreted in his palm the whole time. Just making sure it's recording right.
Lowe looks at Jenna. "I'm not sure I understand you. De-segregation is a bad step because it doesn't work? Perhaps you mean my entire campaign. Do you really have so little faith in humanity that you believe that a registration campaign, that will be private and federal, will somehow spend the end of human decency? I am honestly not talking slavery or concentration camps." And this segues nicely into Drake. "Please do not compare this to the Holocaust," Lowe says evenly. "I am not speaking about segregation of any sort. The very opposite. This is supposed to help mutants and humans integrate, not vice versa."
As the Goth sidles off, he raises up one hand, flipping the bird over his shoulder proudly as he strides. Its obvious he isn't going to get into a back and forth. If the most intelligent of the group can't make a dent, then he'll just go on with his non conforming bad self.
Leo laughs, standing up, and when noticed. "Forgive me for being a little skeptical of that last statement, Senator, it reminded me a little of the name of a group called 'Friends of Humanity'. It sounds nice, when you hear it, doesn't it?"
Jenna plays with her hair a little, smirking. "Faith in humanity is a rare thing among those who study history, Senator. Regestration will not bring people together, any more than our current 'uniter' has managed to. You say you aren't talking about camps? It's happened every time so far. Every time. Even when Canada rounded up its Japanense-descended citizens during the second wold war. Granted, they didn't slaughter anybody, but Canada always was more polite than most."
Staren looks around at anybody looking at Leo next to him, and thus maybe also at him. Maybe somebody will notice his question never really got answered.
"What I have heard of Friend of Humanity is completely against everything in my campaign," Senator Lowe says simply. "And no one will be rounded up. To my knowledge, rounding up was a /specific/ qualification of those movements. It is not a proponent of mine." A pause. "I will field one more question -- then I am afraid our time is up."
Ceta stands up again, smiling politely. "Senator, you say that *you* aren't talking about segregation - but if the Mutant Registration Act becomes law, and if it survives court challenges, it'll be the law of the land long after your term in office runs out. One of your successors may decide to put your legacy to a use that you aren't planning on. And I do have another question: at what point would a mutant be expected to register? Would you have mandatory testing of the population for mutants whose powers haven't manifested openly? Would all children be required to submit a blood sample for testing for the mutant gene at a certain age? And what if someone is a mutant with a power that can't do any harm - why register *all* mutants when some of them will never pose any danger at all?"
"I'm afraid by that criteria, no president can ever do anything even faintly contraversial for fear someone will capitalize on it, twist it, create something vaguely related, but horribly deformed. No country can be run that way if change is ever to happen." And Lowe did say one question. His smile is regretful, if forced. His forehead is positively lathered. "And I'm sorry, but that really is all we have time for. Thank you again for attending this rally." Lowe withdraws from the pulpit -- the MC begins to return.
A woman in a grey raincoat stands up. "Senator, I'm sorry to see all of these mutants monopolizing the questions. Of course that is natural isn't it? If they didn't question your policies, they wouldn't ask questions would they? But, this is a question and answer session with you, and not against them, so I'll choose to address you rather than them. What are you going to do about the mutant vote, senator? Naturally, they'll be voices counted like anyone else, but it's afterwards that I'm worried about. Does this country need even more special interest groups paying off political leaders?" She stays standing, which fits in, because she did just butt in anyway.
Ceta grits her teeth briefly, letting out a sigh. . o O ( And she just assumes everyone who spoke up is a mutant ... I'm not so good at hiding it, am I? ) She keeps an ear perked in case there's a response coming to that last question, even as she begins to move towards the door.
But Lowe is out for the night and he waves as he vanishes back into the curtains. He won't sleep tonight. The MC gives the audience a farewell and the rally is over.
she realizes that one last question means one last question, but she's obviously miffed that she never got a response. She angrily grabs her purse and storms out of the hall, bumping into Speaker, who's been watching from the doorway this entire time.
Speaker claps from the doorway precisely as he had clapped when Lowe first came. Loud claps with plenty of space between them. When the lady bumps into him, he murmurs "excuse me," and she glares at him in response.
Nicholas watches the Senator leave, then stands and brushes himself off lightly, making his way out of the row of seats and towards the exit again.
Staren.oO( I have to admit, this guy doesan't really sound so bad. However... I don't trust mutant registration to work at this stage. Sorry. ) He stands up, "Um... you never answered me...... what am I supposed to do? How will you protect me, and other people like me? We just want normal lives, that's all! You say people like me with harmless powers will be protected from this, but how?"
Jenna calps agian as she did in the first place. Once. "How...charming. I think I need to go shower after that." she says, getting up from her seat, and returning a rather shharp glare she gets from the Lowe fan beside her. "Don't start with me."
Speaker enters the lecture hall against the press of people who are filing out. He wants to go talk to some of the people whose voices he recognized and some whose comments he enjoyed.
Forge closes the net feed and slips the device into his pocket. He stands up and stretches -- and finds his legs trembling.
The log below is IC information! Within reason, of course. I.e. the Q and A part is completely open to the public and completely accurate. One will naturally not be able to hear any audience mutters or private thoughts. :D
How did we get such complete and reliable quality? Well, Forge did the transcript! Ah, technology.
Thoreau Hall is another of the old brick buildings that seem to popular about the campus, decorated with a triangular wedge of garden out front, and a thin layer of ivy creeping up its walls as a testament to its age. Inside, a variety of wide, sunny halls complete with wood flooring lead to classrooms of English, philosophy, and film studies.
Despite the late hour, the auditorium of Thoreau Hall is almost achingly bright. But only almost. A wide banner stretches across the stage curtains, a simple black text on a white cloth -- "Senator Lowe." The Senator had received advice, some strongly, from his higher supporters to put as much emphasis on the banner as possible, wreath it in bright red white and blues and add a "For President" on the end of it, but the Senator (watching from a window over the stage, where the spotlight men normally sit, watching the crowd pile in), the Senator knows that whoever comes to this already knows very well who he is. He has five minutes before he's announced. He leaves the window. And there are butterflies in his stomach.
Jean files in at the front of the crowd, a few strings pulled and phonecalls to see to it that she's seated up near the front. Right beside an old nemesis of hers from a previous tangle over mutant rights, of course, but that's the way the cookie crumbles. Dr. Grey is looking every inch her most solemn and respectable tonight, and even the addition of young Nate Grey-Summers in a baby carrier can't quite mar the impression of Presence about her. Guarded pleasantries are exchanged on both sides with her neighbour, and then she settles in, casting about to keep an eye on various mental presences with 'Xavier's School' psychic post-it notes appended. Please, please, please behave?
Beast is well aware of the unfriendly eyes focused on his blue hairy form as he strides into the hall. Dressed impeccably in a three piece suit and a fedora he takes his place on the aisle, strategically chosen for easy exit strategies just in case. He settles down to listen with every evidence of interest.
Ceta has absolutely every intention of behaving, particularly since she's going to feel like a canary at a cat show in the middle of a gathering of Lowe supporters. She's hoping desperately that the Senator is ... well, less 'dangerous' than she's heard - and she has enough faith in human reason to be willing to hear what he has to say, and possibly add some questions of her own to the mix, if she has the chance ... but for the time being, she's sitting on the end of a row, not all the way in the back but most of the way there - close enough to the exit that she can leave quietly, if the vitriol gets to be too much for her.
Scott arrives with with Emma. He's dressed up in a dress suit, and he's sitting wherever Emma has seats for them. A nod is given to his fellows from Xavier's, and he leaves Emma's side a moment to walk over to Jean. He crouches down to wiggle his son's hand. "If you need me to take him during this just let me know Jean. It's far easier for me to leave than for you." He then rises and looks over the crowd for where Emma is.
Speaker smiles as he gets a seat right behind Jean. Yes, he's too scared to actually sit next to her, especially as this is a solemn sort of thing, she's important and the only other time he's communicated with her was...well, on an online comments post. A perky good posture swiveling his head around, he's not doing a good job as he tries to look cool and detacted. He's dressed in a pale green Oxford shirt and ironed kakhis. He doesn't have his school bag for once, because he figures, you know, it's probably not security-friendly. Is there a definite impression that he's enjoying this situation despite the seriousness of it all? Yes. Yes, very much so.
Forge slides in after Beast, in a seat behind the large, blue-furred teacher. Half for moral support and half to hide if needs be. For perhaps a different reason -- he's actually pro-Lowe, a strange and antsy stance for a mutant with his particular friend base.
Jenna is fairly casual in jeans and blouse, an air of firm purpose and determination about her. And a strong sense of mischief in her smile as she walks up an aisle o lclaim a seat for herself, not worrying too much about easy exits, or whatever sheep might be following this self-appointed shepherd. She seems to have something in mind.
And among the various college-aged and academic noteworthy's, the speech has drawn in a number of city notables curious about this fast rising name on the political scene. Well, when you run with the big-whigs, eh? Emma points out a pair of seats with placards and moves away to mingle while Scott greets his... collegues, I suppose is the correct term. "Mr. Scontanero... I must say, I'm surprised to see -you- here..." she purrs to a stocky gentleman. Strike one black mark next to his name in her book.
Nicholas strolls in, smiling faintly to himself and glancing around the room for a few moments. A few people he recognizes, so far... the priest's smile twists slightly towards a smirk, then fades before he makes his way to a decently placed seat. There are no guards with him, for once.
An announcer walks smoothly out on stage -- he's a tall man with shiny black hair and a shiny smile. He reaches the podium, surveys the crowd cheerfully, and speaks into the microphone. "I'd like to welcome you to Senator Lowe's political forum. And since he has asked me to be direct, let me skip the fanfare and step aside. Please welcome Senator Lowe to New York City!" In typical MC style, the man steps to the side of the podium and claps -- a cue to do the same for those in the audience a little slower of palm. The Senator walks out -- any butterflies invisible in his stride as he waves to the crowd and smiles.
No reason to fight for a seat when someone can just enter unnoticed. The echo of the speaking in the hall is heard from where Troy sits. Actually, he's found a high, out of the way place to enjoy the proceedings. He has no mistchief in mind, just content to sit in a window far above the floor and looking down at the event. From there, he can smoke his cigarette in peace without anyone chastising him about the hall being a non-smoking area. So that man is the senator everyone is talking about? Troy wonders if anything exciting will happen. It'll be good entertainment.
Speaker claps slowly and loudly, looking satisfactory disillusioned and cynical. Got to fit in with the bigwigs, right?
"To be honest, I'm half-hoping he stays quiet the whole time, and then spits up on Lowe if he tries to schmooze..." Jean murmurs in reply to Scott, eyes twinkling before she nods and lets him go. Settling deeper into her seat and smoothing her skirt, she awards Lowe with an impeccable few golf-claps, enough to show that she's mature about this all, before smiling politely and silencing precisely three seconds after the first clappers stop.
Leo, having taken his seat ponders clapping, and makes a small effort to, just for show. Well, the sooner this is over with, the better, but he must privately admit he's looking forward to question-time. He smiles to himself, slightly, resting his things against the floor and adjusting his glasses as he settles.
Gustav slips in almost lateish, instrument case bumping against his side. Which is probably making noise. Gritting his teeth, Gustav sits down in the first chair of the back row, which assures that he can't see anything, but he's here nevertheless. And not interrupting!
Nicholas gathers his robes about him as he settles in his seat, applauding politely but without very much enthusiasm. The Cardinal's attention is fixed on the audience rather than the Senator... who is clapping and who isn't?
Beast claps politely. After all, far be it from Dr. Henry McCoy to ignore the proper social conventions. Besides, he really is curious and intrigued to hear the good Senator's speech. Sometimes, a scientific intellect comes in very handy, not mucking about with his emotions on this day.
Scott doesn't clap. But he can use the excuse that he is still moving towards his seat. He joins Emma, giving her a smile, before turning his attention to the 'good' Senator.
Staren hurries in, .oO( Phew, just made it! ) He takes a moment to catch his breath, and then looks around for a place to sit. He sits himself next to Leo, and looks to the stage. For some reason, he's in disguise at the moment, so his friends won't recognize him.
Jenna claps. Once. You can almost feel the temperature drop around her as a couple of Lowe's fans give her less-than-friendly looks. You know, one might almost get the impression she was trying to give an impression...
Ceta waits for the people around her to start clapping before she adds her own applause, fairly slow and quiet - it's a polite gesture more than anything else, but as a Senator, Lowe deserves at least the show of respect, and Ceta knows it. She also eyes the red-robed priest somewhat warily as she sees his brightly-colored form, and mostly suppresses a grimace. . o O ( Please, not someone with 'religious' opposition to mutants ... )
After that walk -- so short to the spectators, so long to the Senator, who knows very well he's in hostile territory -- Senator Lowe mounts the podium. And quietly wishes he hadn't had the lighting keyed as he did. He wanted an open feel. He just feels exposed. But stage fright is something to be barged right through. The Senator doesn't even clear his throat before launching into the beginning. "I thank you -- I /thank/ you for coming to this forum. I know that many of you may only be here to watch me make a fool of myself, but I appreciate that your interest is so earnest. I know that some of you are here to clap when I pause and ask verifying questions and I appreciate that your support for me is so sincere. And those who are undecided -- I appreciate you the most. Because you are taking those necessary steps to find out who I am and what I stand for before voting. And, without further ado, I am going to let you ask questions. I originally planned to set out the pieces of my campaign before hand, but this is dry and I hope that more will come out through our discussion than any pre-planned speech." And, at that, Senator Lowe silences and watches the audience.
Leo murmurs quietly to Staren, "I'd save it..." before waiting for the questions to come in, not offering any of his own until he gets a better idea of the tone. He'd hoped that a speech might do that.
Speaker glances left, glances right. Do we clap again? We just clapped, for cryin' out loud. Before, that was just politeness clapping, are we supposed to enthusiastic clap now?
Jean raises her hand almost casually to get the attention of the emcee, and once she's gotten it, sits up to smile and introduce herself. "Senator Lowe, Dr. Jean Grey. I'm sure my opinion on mutant registration is fairly clear to the present company, so I'll just let you have the pulpit today: You're a proponant of mutant registration. Exactly how do you expect this to work? And how much is this going to cost the American people in terms of either tax hikes, or money diverted from more essential programs?"
Emma makes no effort to clap, but how could anyone hold it against the cool blonde who strides down the center aisle. To take her seat of course. Familiar and unfamiliar minds press in on her shields, and she quickly locates the ones belonging to students, both those there on her orders and those not, all of whom had better be on their best behavior. She doesn't want any of her pleasure spoilt by premature exploits. She slides in next to Scott, offering a brow lift at the child, but her interest is redirected by Jean's question. Oh, isn't she sweet, the political advocate.
Gustav is sitting there in the back, behind someone tall. Even if Lowe were for some reason looking for short Austrian composer-lookalikes, he would not be able to see this one. And anyway, Gustav is just sorta leaning forward and listening with wide eyes, fingers tapping his knees.
Jenna slowly licks her lips. If she's not mistaken, the Good Doctor just might have drawn blood with that one. A smirk spreads across her face. Yeah, that's probably better than what she planned to ask our friendly neighborhood fearmonger...
Staren doesn't clap for the guy. To Leo, he just responds with a quiet 'Yeah.' .oO( Hmm... I hope this doesn't go wrong. Now that's an interesting first question. )
Ceta sits quietly and listens for now, glad that Jean got the first question in, but she's also contemplating a few questions to ask of her own. She's also starting to relax somewhat; her earlier worries may well go unrealized.
Dr. Jean Grey. There's hardly a public figure Lowe was warned more about by his New York supporters. Lowe keeps composure, though -- there is a reason he's slotted this as more of a question and answer period than a shout-out -- it's more comfortable, more familiar to him. "Dr. Grey." Start with the acknowledgement. "The question of expense is a fair one -- what I must first answer, though, is the implied question of what is essential and what is not. I think that everyone here would find education essential and national defense essential. I must stand firmly on my belief that internal defense is just as essential. This is not an issue of making mutants second class citizens and using state money to do so. This is an issue of safety, for both groups. Funding -- I will not pretend I have a vast reserve of inherited money to make up the difference. There will be costs. It will not be easy. But as I have made my campaign, both funding resources and those with resources to make mutant registration /possible/ without turning it into some hateful witch hunt, have gradually come forward. There will be tax hikes, I am sure. But I am also sure that the American people are /willing/ to pay the cost for security."
Beast stands, easily one of the most recognizeable figures in the room at the current moment. He takes off his hat and holds it in one hand-- or rather, paw, shoving his wire-rim glasses further up his nose. "I am Dr. Henry McCoy, Senator Lowe. I am sure you know of my accomplishments in the private sector regarding biochemistry and physics. My question is this. What is your opinion on genetic diseases? Sport genes are responsible for Down's Syndrome and cerebral palsy among others. As a proponent of taking away mutant rights, how is it possible for you to single out certain genetic sports for registration? Logically one would therefore have to register anyone with a sport in their genetic makeup. Are you really prepared to go to those sort of extremes? Mutancy, after all, when one comes right down to it scientifically is merely a genetic defect like any other. Are you seriously suggesting registering anyone with a genetic defect as a way of keeping America safe? Surely that is a very slippery slope."
Gustav looks intently at Beast as he speaks. Genetics. Very interesting. He leans forward and fidgets with his glasses. He seems to be paying more attention to the questions than the responses.
"Ah, but Senator, you jumped neatly over how it would work. Surely if you've thought so much about it, you can do better than just 'not a witchhunt--" Jean probes more deeply, before Beast questions right over top of her. A crooked grimace, and she settles back down, biding her time and scooping Nate up to sit on her lap.
Leo frowns, hoping that the Senator might say something soon that either he or Staren will be able to jump in on, but for now he waits. No surprises yet . o (And no surprises that the Senator failed to actually answer how it would work)
Speaker suddenly has to go to the bathroom. Lousy timing, he thinks to himself as he tries to get past the people in his row and out the door as discretely as possible.
Staren.oO( Hmm, so far nothing for me to respond to with my littl act. I am most interested to hear in exactly how registration would work, yes. Done right, it could be a good thing. Done right. )
Winding his way through the crowd, the Gothic, Drake, moves slowly in a symphony of jingling chains and odd murmurs of those who glance his way and roll their eyes. His gloved hands are shoved into his pockets, spikey black hair sticking up in all directions. He murmurs soft pardons and excuse me's as he searches with his dark brown eyes for a familiar face.
"Henry McCoy." There's an obvious mutant. Lowe retains his smile. He's tried to reiterate so many times that he is not prejudiced against mutants, that there is nothing in mutants, no matter how strange or powerful, that truly makes them inhuman. But it's always different to see one that looks different. In all honesty, the Senator is glad for the interruption. The practical portion of registration is the most difficult to explain and Lowe needs the time to put that together. "There is a difference between genetic defect and mutation. A genetic defect does not allow the one bearing it, to my knowledge, able to destroy buildings or control minds. There is no reason to register someone with Down syndrome for police reasons of any sort. These are two different issues, I believe."
Ceta raises her hand, biting her lip slightly, and waits to be called on for her question.
Beast hrms. "Scientifically genetic defects are no different from each other except in their effects on the body. But this mutant registration act will affect more than just the body. Thank you, Senator." And he sits down again.
Leo raises his hand, and when noticed, asks: "My friends in the department of philosophy have a few questions which I think you'll be able to clear up. The Professor of Logic wonders, in particular wonders if you will also introduce schemes to register anybody with an IQ of over 150, due to their potential for thinking up clever and terrible terrorist plots, and anyone with a knowledge of computer programming due to their potential to create devastating computer viruses which could have the most alarming effects?"
Nicholas watches and listens, his hands folded. He's pretty much motionless, though he does nod in response to Lowe's latest remark. The man does make some sense. No questions for him right now, those that others are providing are rather interesting.
Gustav keeps listening, still leaning forward, but brows furrowed now. He's no longer directly looking at anybody or anything. At length, he quietly raises a hand, which he hopes will be noticeable from behind the tall person.
Upon catching the familiar voice of Hank, Drake steers his direction through the crowd, making his way towards him. His eyes lift upwards to stare at Lowe, eyes squinting slightly as he clicks his tongue ring slowly against his teeth. Instead of speaking out, he simply gives him the gothic 'stare', broody and angst ridden. With another murmured 'excuse me', he squeezes his way towards those he knows.
Jenna has a question of her own, but bides her time. After all, Lowe has basically dived into a piranha tank at this point. Best to wait for him to begin to pull himself out before stepping on his fingers.
Jean bends her head to Nate, hiding a smile as it appears that her continued badgering isn't even needed. A sidelong glance at one of her fellow passive resisters who helped book all the lecture halls up 'til this late night point, a silent nod exchanged, and she's back to watching Lowe with a border collie's intensity.
Lowe actually finds Leo's question mildly refreshing -- not because it's easy to answer, but because the phrasing makes him smile -- a real smile, not just a cover-up for a mind working quite hard against difficult issues. "Again, I can't see it as quite the same issue. IQ tests are, for one thing, extremely unreliable and have relatively little indication of practical intelligence. For every Einstein, there is some man with an IQ of quite average levels who will be a criminal mastermind. No, the reason why mutant registration is necessary is because of both the inherent quality of mutant powers -- some mutants cannot control their powers and should be able to be helped -- and their sheer innate destructive potential. It is not pre-emptive criminalizing of a group." Lowe acknowledges Ceta.
Beast mutters at that last response, the professional mask slipping for a moment.
Control minds? Hmhm... Senator, if you only knew. Emma settles back in her chair, crossing her legs before her and regarding the man through lowered lashes. So... we try the reasonable moderate approach? Appeal to the voters through their logic? << Please, someone ask him what safeguards he intends to enact -with- this act to protect the innocents... >> she broadcasts, not particularly desirous of drawing the public, along with Lowe's campaigners' eye to her, and thus to those associated with her.
Forge leans forward to whisper at Beast. "So ... what do you think?" His voice is rather nervous. He has a pretty decent idea of what his colleague thinks, but he's going stir crazy.
"So we'd be registering -potential-?" Jean breaks in. "In that case, Senator, I strongly urge you to have a blood test done, because you may -potentially- be carrying the genes that would father one of those terrible, menacing, powerful mutants. How would you react to being the parent of a mutant child?"
Leo nods, "Well, of course, my IQ example was just one example of non-mutants with destructive potential that are nevertheless not mentioned. But, my colleague will enjoy the nitpicking.. thank you."
Gustav hmms and lowers his hand.
Jenna raises a hand languidly, a casual smile upon her face. She waits patiently to be acknowledged, that her question might be asked, and the senator kicked back into the tank, hopefully never to surface. She almost purrs at Jean's questoin. She might not need to ask a thing here.
Ceta stands up, taking a quiet breath. "Actually, Senator, you just touched on what I wanted to ask: have you considered the fact that many mutants - almost certainly the majority - have no desire or intention to threaten those around them? How do you justify registering all identifiable mutants as a 'threat' simply because they have the genetic quirk which gives them special powers, if most of them don't intend to use their abilities to do harm?"
And Gustav quickly raises his hand again. Indecisive maybe. But it's probably hard to see him anyway.
Beast replies back to Forge, in a voice that may, perhaps, be heard a few seats over. "I think he's a short-sighted narrow-minded idiot."
Reaching out and nudging Beast lightly on the elbow, Drake throws his gloved hand up in the air, two fingers stretching upwards in a come hither gesture as he eyeballs the speaker. A slight grin forms over his lips as he begins to hum, leaning slightly against the big blue furry arm next to him.
"Yes, I have," Lowe responds to Ceta. "In fact, I know that this is a fact. I also know that there are mutants out there who do not only not see mutant registration as a direct threat to their genes, but see it as protection for /them/. Those mutants, the majority indeed, who do not intend to harm, or who have powers which are completely harmless, or both, will be as protected by the registration as people tend to perceive them harmed by it. If we know what mutants are able to do what, a mutant who causes no harm cannot be as easily prosecuted on mere rumor." Oh, Doctor Grey, you picked an easy one. Thank you. The Senator smiles. "Dr. Grey, I would react the same way as I would to any child. I do /not/, let me reiterate, I do /not/ consider mutants a menace. If I had a mutant child, I would treat them the same way I would treat any other child, only with more care because they /do/ have so much potential. I would want this child, same as any other, to be protected." Senator Lowe acknowledges Gustav, then Jenna.
Ceta sits back down, mulling over the Senator's response. . o O ( How do you justifiy a prejudicial law when you know that the prejudice itself is unreasoning ... ? )
"Ah." Forge sits back down ... then leans forward again. " . . . but supposing .." No, he sits back down and shuts up. He ain't meant for this scene.
Jean smiles and offers a "Thank you, Senator. But..." And you -know- there had to be a 'but'. "Surely a man in your position isn't unaware of political history. Exactly how do you plan to see to it that innocent mutant who come forward to register wouldn't be discriminated against? What plans have you made for informational control and security? What is to stop known mutants from being treated like known child molestors or other criminals by the public? What is to stop military researchers from pressuring mutants with 'useful' abilities into scientific trials along the lines of the 1960s experiments in psionics, except with real telepaths this time?"
Beast frowns, another thought having occured. This time, when he stands, he waits to be recognized (ah, the irony of the word) by whoever it is that's fielding the questions.
Gustav takes a few moments to realize that he's being acknowledged, but when he realize it, he adjusts his spectacles and stands--on his toes. Still hard to see him! "On vat she said," he indicates Ceta as she sits down, "und on your response...I suppose some of it has already been addressed..." but get to the point, man. His voice is not so steady. "Ja, some people may see it as protection, but some may see it as threats, und ze vay it ist treated could change from adminishtration to adminishtration, vich ist also bad. But my poit ist thus--if a mutation ist not major at all, even if it does do bad s'ings, zey vould not cause huge damage, und ze damage could be vat ist addressed on criminal charges, not ze mutation cause. Und for ze bigger powers, if someone vere to do somes'ing bad, it vould be obvious, und zey vould not haff to be registered to be pinned to ze events in some vay. But for most people mit ze bigger powers, I vould s'ink zey vere responsible or even good. Many are good und vant to help society, und zey can do zat mitout being registered. Und you mentioned people who might have powers zey cannot yet control...zat could cause bad s'ings, but zey vould be true accidents, und ze people involved couldn't be consciously blamed...All of ze results fit mitin regular laws, I s'ink. Ze registration could really zerefore be deemed unnecessary, ja? Und if it ist unnecessary, und it bothers people, zere ist no need."
Jenna lets Jean continue her line of questioning, and leys Gus speak before herself. "What makes it good this time? What makes you different fromanyone else who ever capitolized on fear to get elected? Why will it work out this time when a minority has to get registered and documented? How will forming another agency to keep closer tabs on America's own citizens make them safer? And how is a mutant any more dangerous than a disgruntled teenager who's friend's father collects guns?"
"There will be, of course, Dr. Grey, concurrent legislation to prevent this sort of thing. For that matter, registration will /not/ be widely public." Here we go. "It will be mostly federal and mostly law enforcement. Potential employers would /only/ know of a mutation if the mutant in question had a criminal record. Mutants who decided to go public would be protected by the law as any other group from discrimination. The registration would /prevent/ such pressuring as has happened in the past -- because the law would be based in keeping such uses from happening." Lowe moves to Gustav. "There are many mutants with similar powers. Supposing one who could create fire burned down a church, but the only public fire wielding mutant was innocent -- if no one knew of this other fire wielder, the wrong mutant might be prosecuted. As for those who ... help society by vigilantism, it is still vigilantism -- more mutants in law enforcement would solve this problem." And Jenna. "I am not capitalizing on fear, I am trying to address it. And this is a very legitimate fear. Now, a father who collects guns -- guns have documentation. Guns can be used as evidence. A mutant who can kill someone without a gun could go unprosecuted forever." Senator Lowe acknowledges Beast.
Nicholas hmms faintly at the point on documentation, then stands carefully himself, clasping his hands together and waiting to be acknowledged.
Scott raises his hand. "Would more mutants in law enforcement really help Senator Lowe? I remember a certain detective of the NYPD being forced off the force because people found out he was a mutant. Not that he was breaking laws, but just that he was a mutant. So I'm curious how you expect to get law enforcement to accept law abiding mutants among their ranks?"
Gustav notes, "As for mutants in law inforcement, I s'ink zey vould not get involved, because law inforcement und some politicians are unkind to zem. Until zey are integrated into normal society und treated as any citizen vould be treated, mutants vould not be accepted vell on ze force anyvay...so to treat any incidents related to mutations as one vould deal mit any crimes is a vay to assure nomal citizenship. Any normal person could set a fire, too..." And he sits.
Staren takes a deep breath. and closes his eyes for a moment. .oO( Here goes... ) He stands up. He feels slightly bad about being deceptive about his situation, but he knows that although it isn't really his situation, it _is_ the situation of other young mutants. "Uh..." he starts, then raises his voice so he can be heard. "Senator, a couple of months ago... I found out I was a mutant and--" he pulls back the hood of his hoodie, revealing his ears "--so did everyone else. Now at school, everyone either avoids me or picks on me, and everyone calls me freak or worse. My friends are afraid to be seen with me, even one who is secretly a mutant themself, just not visibly, because then they'd get treated the same way. I don't want this. I just want a normal life... How would you protect me, and others in my situation??"
Beast looks around him, catching the eyes of the friends he knows. It is his grandstand moment, unless Lowe ticks the brilliant scientist off again. The baritone voice rings out in justifiable passion. "'We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness -- That to secure these Rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just Powers from the Consent of the Governed, that whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these Ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its Foundation on such Principles, and organizing its Powers in such Form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.'" Beast finishes reciting and smiles. "Those words are quoted from the Declaration of Liberty, Senator, and I believe they are germaine, going to the heart of this issue. Mutants or no, citizens of these United States of America are entitled to the right of life, liberty and the persuit of happiness. Our *governemnt*, Senator, was originally enacted in order to ensure that those rights are protected. It appears to me that registering mutants not only restricts their lives, their liberties, and their happiness, but will also force the government into supporting a law that directly opposes the principles that this country was first founded on. Are you prepared for the Consitutional battle that will start over your act, if it hasn't already?"
Jean is not convinced, even if her next-door neighbour is nodding with a fanatic gleam to his eyes. "That's all very prettily said, Senator, but you're giving us generalizations. As President, you'll be dealing in specifics, and in realities. I know that I wouldn't be averse to hearing more than just sound and light... but that can be damaging enough as it is." Preamble given, she delves into her actual question, after a quick glance over at Logan, lounged against the back wall with folded arms. "Your campaign tour has been marked by incidences of increased anti-mutant violence in every city you stop in. And yet for all your pretty words on protection and safety, there has yet to be a single press statement from you addressing this."
Ceta tenses slightly, looking over at Staren. She has to give him credit for guts, and for putting a human face directly on the discrimination question ... then turns her full attention to Dr. McCoy, smiling at his speech, and awaits Lowe's response ...
Lowe decides to attempt to answer Scott, Gustav, and Staren in the same slew of words. He draws a breath. "Yes. Yes, there is currently severe prejudice in the police force. But if you are familiar with Brown vs. the Board of Education? The ruling that ended segregation? That is how we will end police segregation. Any mutant who wants to use their powers publically and legally for the betterment in society should have any and all back up from the federal government to make it happen. And these sorts of discrimination rulings should, in time, protect all mutants. It will not be easy or immediate. I will never claim it will be." Beast. "I'm impressed at your oratorial skills, Dr. McCoy, but I do not agree. I do not think that registration will violate mutant rights. I honestly do not. We must also keep in mind, with all due respect, that our founding fathers had no words, nor even a concept, for mutants." Jean. "Yes, this has been an unfortunate reaction, but surely there has been mutant backlash as well. And, Dr. Grey, I simply must insist at this point that we schedule a debate for later. There are many other questions." Nicholas acknowledged.
Drake continues to wave his arm back and forth as he listens to his friends 'converse' with Lowe, hopping a bit up and down on his feet. He shifts some as Beast goes into his declaration rant, glancing up at him with a bit of admiration in his eyes.
"That's precisely how you capitolize upon it, Senator." The veggiemancer chuckles, and leans back in her chair, looking around and seeing the senator's every move countered, his every logical flaw clawed at.
Nicholas eyes Beast when he goes into his quote.. and frowns slightly at the argument coming afterwards. The cardinal mumbles to himself in Italian for a few moments, looking a bit puzzled.. still standing for his own question.
As a recent transfer from Austria, Gustav is not up on his Surpreme Court cases. He remains sitting, listening and tapping his feet anxiously. His player definitely could have some good responses to the Brown v. Board of Education remark, but they would not be in character.
Nicholas nods, "Thank you, Senator." His italian accent is a bit stronger than usual, at the moment.. "I apologize for the diversion.. ah... you have spoken of documentation.. evidence, controls, and such. However.. mutation is a global issue, yes? You have laws against the transport of conventional weapons... would you also advocate a law requiring mutant nature to be declared on entry to the United States? How could you ensure that reporting is accurate.. both at customs and within the country itself?"
"I -could- pick apart your points you've just made right now, Senator Lowe," Jean notes, an easy smile on her lips as attention and a couple television cameras arrow her way for a moment at the request for a debate. "But I think I'll go easy on you tonight and save my energy. Name your time and place, and I'll surely take you up... although don't expect me to go easy on you because of my good breeding."
Beast grits his teeth, muttering with complete disregard for who can hear him and who can't, "It's not *mutant* rights I'm worried about. We're *human*. This is a *human* rights issue." Words fail him at the old arguement that the founding fathers couldn't predict the future. Then he splutters, "We're *human*. They knew enough to govern humans well. We should have the same respect for the law that they did. They were human men writing the laws for a human country, and we're *still* a human country. With humans outnumbering the mutants by some astronomical number." He has just lost all respect for this Senator Lowe. He takes his hat, gets up and stalks off, fuming. The people that he passes might be able to hear snatches of his diatribe against narrow-minded people refusing to look the facts in the face and passing acts into laws based on a slippery slope. The last thing he says is something scathing about the ultimate end game and the Third Reich.
Nicholas looks a bit pityingly at Beast as he stalks off, then shrugs lightly, smiling slightly again before he turning to wait for the Senator's reply.
Lowe has already privately decided that he is not particularly fond of Dr. Grey, but his voice remains even. "Trust me, Dr. Grey, I am not asking to be coddled. I will arrange something with you later." On to Nicholas. "I would advocate a law for such an entry, yes. Accuracy of reporting would have to be a mixture of technology, testing, and good book keeping, but, I believe, would be feasible." On to Beast . . . or not. Lowe follows the mutant out with his gaze . . . but answers him anyway. Present or not, the question hangs. "The laws have changed before according to the times. And I will reiterate that I do not think that this will strip human rights at all."
Ceta decides it's time to bring in a less controversial side of the question, and raises her hand again ..
Leo says, quietly to Staren, "Sorry, looks like you were pretty much steamrollered by everyone else, but no harm done."
Jenna speaks up once more. "I think we all know how well the end to segregation went, Senator. In parts of the south, it's like the ruling never happened. Every time these steps you advocate have been taken, it has added another black mark to the track record of all humanity. Dozens of times in nations around the world, even on this continent, even in this country, it has backfired horribly. You say you don't think it will strip human rights, I don't beleive you. You're trying to use mutants as the bogeymen to steer people who'd rather listen than think into voting for you, and I think it speaks poorly of all mankind that you have any support at all."
Drake tilts his head and watches Beast begin to stalk off, a frown crossing over his face. he lets out a quick breath and then shouts out. "Is this what I have to look forward to when I start paying my taxes? Mutant metal detectors in airports? You know what, Mister Lowe. You are going to piss off the /wrong/ mutants who aren't going to agree with your Nazi bullshit. Mutants, jews, I guess they are one and the same if it comes down to it, right? You start pushing for this racist crap, where mutants gotta sign some piece of paper to be allowed to breathe the same air as eveyrone else, and you are going to inspire some upstart KKK member to start doing the same to the black folk, then of course you can't stop there! We /have/ to segregate the rest! I don't think its mutants you need to be afraid of, its the every day joe who can whip out a gun and blow a hole in your frigg'n head!" With that, the Goth turns and starts stalking off after Hank, wading through the crowd like a shark, eyes furrowed, anger spilling in his eyes.
Forge makes a noise back in his throat and messes with something he's kept secreted in his palm the whole time. Just making sure it's recording right.
Lowe looks at Jenna. "I'm not sure I understand you. De-segregation is a bad step because it doesn't work? Perhaps you mean my entire campaign. Do you really have so little faith in humanity that you believe that a registration campaign, that will be private and federal, will somehow spend the end of human decency? I am honestly not talking slavery or concentration camps." And this segues nicely into Drake. "Please do not compare this to the Holocaust," Lowe says evenly. "I am not speaking about segregation of any sort. The very opposite. This is supposed to help mutants and humans integrate, not vice versa."
As the Goth sidles off, he raises up one hand, flipping the bird over his shoulder proudly as he strides. Its obvious he isn't going to get into a back and forth. If the most intelligent of the group can't make a dent, then he'll just go on with his non conforming bad self.
Leo laughs, standing up, and when noticed. "Forgive me for being a little skeptical of that last statement, Senator, it reminded me a little of the name of a group called 'Friends of Humanity'. It sounds nice, when you hear it, doesn't it?"
Jenna plays with her hair a little, smirking. "Faith in humanity is a rare thing among those who study history, Senator. Regestration will not bring people together, any more than our current 'uniter' has managed to. You say you aren't talking about camps? It's happened every time so far. Every time. Even when Canada rounded up its Japanense-descended citizens during the second wold war. Granted, they didn't slaughter anybody, but Canada always was more polite than most."
Staren looks around at anybody looking at Leo next to him, and thus maybe also at him. Maybe somebody will notice his question never really got answered.
"What I have heard of Friend of Humanity is completely against everything in my campaign," Senator Lowe says simply. "And no one will be rounded up. To my knowledge, rounding up was a /specific/ qualification of those movements. It is not a proponent of mine." A pause. "I will field one more question -- then I am afraid our time is up."
Ceta stands up again, smiling politely. "Senator, you say that *you* aren't talking about segregation - but if the Mutant Registration Act becomes law, and if it survives court challenges, it'll be the law of the land long after your term in office runs out. One of your successors may decide to put your legacy to a use that you aren't planning on. And I do have another question: at what point would a mutant be expected to register? Would you have mandatory testing of the population for mutants whose powers haven't manifested openly? Would all children be required to submit a blood sample for testing for the mutant gene at a certain age? And what if someone is a mutant with a power that can't do any harm - why register *all* mutants when some of them will never pose any danger at all?"
"I'm afraid by that criteria, no president can ever do anything even faintly contraversial for fear someone will capitalize on it, twist it, create something vaguely related, but horribly deformed. No country can be run that way if change is ever to happen." And Lowe did say one question. His smile is regretful, if forced. His forehead is positively lathered. "And I'm sorry, but that really is all we have time for. Thank you again for attending this rally." Lowe withdraws from the pulpit -- the MC begins to return.
A woman in a grey raincoat stands up. "Senator, I'm sorry to see all of these mutants monopolizing the questions. Of course that is natural isn't it? If they didn't question your policies, they wouldn't ask questions would they? But, this is a question and answer session with you, and not against them, so I'll choose to address you rather than them. What are you going to do about the mutant vote, senator? Naturally, they'll be voices counted like anyone else, but it's afterwards that I'm worried about. Does this country need even more special interest groups paying off political leaders?" She stays standing, which fits in, because she did just butt in anyway.
Ceta grits her teeth briefly, letting out a sigh. . o O ( And she just assumes everyone who spoke up is a mutant ... I'm not so good at hiding it, am I? ) She keeps an ear perked in case there's a response coming to that last question, even as she begins to move towards the door.
But Lowe is out for the night and he waves as he vanishes back into the curtains. He won't sleep tonight. The MC gives the audience a farewell and the rally is over.
she realizes that one last question means one last question, but she's obviously miffed that she never got a response. She angrily grabs her purse and storms out of the hall, bumping into Speaker, who's been watching from the doorway this entire time.
Speaker claps from the doorway precisely as he had clapped when Lowe first came. Loud claps with plenty of space between them. When the lady bumps into him, he murmurs "excuse me," and she glares at him in response.
Nicholas watches the Senator leave, then stands and brushes himself off lightly, making his way out of the row of seats and towards the exit again.
Staren.oO( I have to admit, this guy doesan't really sound so bad. However... I don't trust mutant registration to work at this stage. Sorry. ) He stands up, "Um... you never answered me...... what am I supposed to do? How will you protect me, and other people like me? We just want normal lives, that's all! You say people like me with harmless powers will be protected from this, but how?"
Jenna calps agian as she did in the first place. Once. "How...charming. I think I need to go shower after that." she says, getting up from her seat, and returning a rather shharp glare she gets from the Lowe fan beside her. "Don't start with me."
Speaker enters the lecture hall against the press of people who are filing out. He wants to go talk to some of the people whose voices he recognized and some whose comments he enjoyed.
Forge closes the net feed and slips the device into his pocket. He stands up and stretches -- and finds his legs trembling.
