September 14th, 1893 — An event hall in Crowdy Memorial Library

SIMILAR TO THE SORTING - IC, each question is asked in order.

You can post your answers to the questions you wish to answer at any time before the thread closes.* You must answer at least three questions - the question on change, the candidate-specific question, and one question of your choosing - to count this debate for IC participation points, but DO NOT have to answer every question. (Although you can if you wish!)

If your candidate is not announced IC by 9/10, please PM Beanie their announcement article by midnight EST on 9/11 for them to be announced in time to participate in this debate.

Ross cleared his throat at exactly 5 o'clock. The candidates sat at a panel before him; behind him, the crowd. "Welcome, all, to the 1893 Ministerial debate," he announced. He ran through the rules - no rebuttal, no bickering - as the league had outlined to him. "I would like to thank the league for allowing me to moderate this debate. All questions have been sourced from submissions by citizens of magical Britain, and have been chosen in order to give the voting public a picture of your whole platform. You have sixty seconds per question, and I will cut you off if necessary. We will begin now."

Merlin help him; hopefully this would solidify his idea of who to endorse.

"What is the most important change you hope to offer magical Britain?" Ross asked, to the room. Once the candidates had answered in a rondel, he switched to a round of candidate-specific questions:

"Mr. Timoleon Maxime. The Prophet has mentioned you are "known to spend many hours outside of his schedule at the office, and has commented he will continue to do so if elected." Will you expect the same behavior throughout the Ministry?"

"Mr. Jude Wright. If you had the power to change only one viewpoint held by one of your competitors, which would it be?"

"Mr. Lionel Lupin. What do you believe most distinguishes you as a candidate from Maxime, who works in the same department and announced his campaign prior to yours?"

"Mr. Bernard Prewett. You have been criticized for your connections to former Minister Faris Spavin. What would you say to address those concerns?"

"Mr. Ozymandias Dempsey. You have not previously worked in the Ministry; what makes you qualified to run it?"

"Mr. Aldous Crouch. What distinguishes you from other candidates who work in domestically-focused departments of the Ministry?"

"Miss Sweetie Whitledge. You have been criticized for your lack of experience; what do you say to address that criticism?"

"Mr. Emerett Picardy. You are historically very focused on the question of werewolves. What would you do to make your running of the Ministry more holistic?"

Once the candidate specific questions were answered, Ross asked a series of general questions to a few of the candidates at once:

"Would you change or maintain the marriage ban between humans and non-humans?"

"What do you feel is the most pressing matter for the Minister's office both a) domestically and b) internationally?"

"Ministers typically appoint at least one member of the Wizengamot during their terms. If elected, who would you chose for Wizengamot, and why?"

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*The rules of this debate do not offer back-and-forth rebuttal. If the League hosts another debate, ;), that debate will offer back and forth rebuttal.

  

"What is the most important change you hope to offer magical Britain?"

"At the risk of being chided for a lack of specifics," he began with a cocky smile towards the crowd. He was aware that this was something people were saying about him; that he lacked any concrete opinions. Apparently most of wizarding society did not understand that issues were nuanced, and his opinions on them were equally so. He wasn't exactly surprised that most of wizarding society apparently wasn't intelligent enough to actually understand his positions on various policies, but it was rather grating by this point in the campaign. "The most important change I offer is a philosophical one rather than something tied to a specific, isolated issue. It's a change from tradition, electing a career Ministry man to continue on largely in the way things have always been done, to having a Minister driven by ideals and unburdened by the limitations of how we've always gone about things. It's a change from taking small steps in the right direction, to setting our sights on how things should be and removing the obstacles that stand in our way."

He glanced at Ross, but he hadn't signaled that Oz was out of time yet. It was important to squeeze all of his allotted time for all it was worth, he had been coached; a platform like this was not likely to present itself again. Maybe he could use the time to make himself seem a little more approachable and personable? "Anyone who knows me, or my family, will know I'm not preoccupied with my reputation," he joked. This was off-script; hopefully Christabel didn't kill him for it after the event. "Nor do I have my own personal career interests to look after. I don't bring the baggage of any specific office and their pet projects. My only priority while in office will be doing what is best for our country."

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"Mr. Ozymandias Dempsey. You have not previously worked in the Ministry; what makes you qualified to run it?"

This was, of course, the question he had most expected and the one he had spent time preparing for. That said, he was still a little disappointed that it was really all the voting public apparently wanted to ask. He had actual opinions about things, and some of the other candidates had been asked about their opinions — why was his job history the only thing that seemed to interest anyone when it came to his campaign? Maybe he ought to publish a platform — it had seemed a little presumptuous early on, but at this point it was more of a shortcut than anything else. He almost wished someone would ask him about women's suffrage. Almost.

"Being Minister of Magic is not about managing day to day office work," he began. "I trust that the Ministry's Department Heads are perfectly capable of running their own departments without micromanagement. The Office of Minister is about policy, about diplomacy, and about leadership, none of which are skills learned exclusively through sitting at a Ministry desk. I've spent time abroad, learning the culture and history of all of our major allies and competitors on the international stage. I've invested in both businesses and arts movements domestically, giving me firsthand knowledge of the economy. And finally," this last was borrowed from his sister; he hoped he managed the words as eloquently as she had when they had been practicing. "I have the creativity and innovation to take the Ministry in a new direction. The Ministry as it stands is a train that runs reasonably well, but there are improvements that can be made — but one would not hire a component of the engine to drive that train." Was that the gist of her metaphor? He thought perhaps he'd botched it. "Outside perspective is necessary to create real positive change."

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Would you change or maintain the marriage ban between humans and non-humans?"

Oz hadn't expected this to be one of the top questions of the debate; it seemed rather a settled issue to him. Bafflement aside, though, he felt ready to answer it. "I certainly wouldn't advocate a wholesale repeal of the marriage ban," he began. "It exists for a reason, and that reason is to protect the magical population as a whole from a repeat of the 1877 riots. Half-human children specifically pose a threat to the community when they bear obviously non-human traits and have the ability to use magic," he continued. And they're children and therefore unpredictable and terrible he did not add; he didn't need any stronger connection in the minds of the voters between him and the whole issue of whether children were worth the trouble. "That said, the existing rule is broad and there is room for more nuance in its application than currently exists. If elected, I would recommend a Wizengamot committee to review the issue and determine the right set of criteria for the issue."

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"What do you feel is the most pressing matter for the Minister's office both a) domestically and b) internationally?"

"Internationally, it's the management of colonies and territories," Oz said without hesitation. "The decisions of the Queen regarding the British Empire's expansion and maintenance haven't always mirrored wizarding society; as English Muggle society expands we must establish healthy relationships with new wizarding communities. There's not a one-size-fits-all approach to this, but it's crucial to setting us up for future success on the international stage. Domestically," he hesitated, not sure he wanted to commit to this or not. He wished he could see where Thomasina was sitting, out in the audience, but the stage lights didn't give him any range of vision beyond the first two rows. "Voting reform. Recent demonstrations have shown that it's coming one way or another, so our next Minister needs to handle the issue proactively."

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MJ is the light of my life <3

"What is the most important change you hope to offer magical Britain?"

Leo almost rolled his eyes at the question. Almost. It was so generic and so overused, yet he wasn’t surprised it came up. It was the question that would probably be most listened to — what change did he want to bring to Britain would become the core of his campaign, so he better say it correctly. Clearing his throat, Leo offered an easy smile. “The most important change I would offer is to improve the lack of trust in the Ministry. I understand that a handful of people think that the Ministry lacks direction and doesn’t particularly get much done.” He chuckled quietly because that was a load of bullshit. He got a lot done. “I would provide more transparency of what is happening, and allow the people to see what is being done – to protect them, to serve them, to improve their lives. I believe by fostering a positive relationship between the people and the Ministry, we will see more positive changes come from it.”

Accountability, public trust, informed decision making, all things that sounded good but in practice, who knew who well it’d go over. Leo wasn’t even sure he’d want to go through with it, and he decided, once he was done speaking, that this wouldn’t be the core of his campaign. He’d hate to have to stick to it.

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"Mr. Timoleon Maxime. The Prophet has mentioned you are "known to spend many hours outside of his schedule at the office, and has commented he will continue to do so if elected." Will you expect the same behavior throughout the Ministry?"

This question made him laugh. He’d heard a few comments when he first started asking if he actually had a home; Leo hadn’t been amused then and still wasn’t amused now. It wasn’t his fault that people were so complacent with their current situations that they didn’t feel the need to be seen to move up in the ranks; it worked out for him though, staying late and working his ass off to become the assistant head.

“No, it is not something I would expect throughout the Ministry. I understand people have families and social commitments they have to attend to, and being forced to stay beyond their scheduled hours would harbor resentment. I do it because I want to, because it’s important to me to get work done efficiently and properly.” Leo did it because he was working on clawing his way up the ladder and now here he was, almost at the top. He glanced at the crowd while he pursed his lips together. “I imagine once I take a wife and begin expanding my own family, I too, won’t want to work such long hours.” He had no plans to be a permanent bachelor, work had just always been his priority. And it would continue to be if he was elected Minister of Magic;

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"Ministers typically appoint at least one member of the Wizengamot during their terms. If elected, who would you choose for Wizengamot, and why?"

Leo knew that bringing in a member of Wizengamot was both to show he had support and to bring in more support to the Wizengamot itself. It would be strategic, someone he trusted ( but Leo trusted no one, not with his life) and someone he would have his back no matter what. He considered Murdock, but the man had his own secrets and he was sure that the man would just laugh at him. Leo cleared his throat as he blinked at the crowd.

“Cassian Valenduris. He’s been with me since almost the beginning, and I know he has a strong work ethic, dedication to the job and has a very straight head on his shoulders.” Somewhere Cass was probably groaning, but to hell with that. ”If there is anyone who would sit, listen and truly consider what the truth is during trials, and consider what kind of laws are best for magical Britain, it is Mr. Valenduris. I would be honored to appoint him.” Leo had helped him be promoted to chef when he'd moved into the Assistant Head position, so it only made sense that he continued that honor of helping the man move up the ladder. Cassian wouldn't turn it down, he'd be daft to do that, so Leo knew he'd take the position, even begrudgingly.

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Thank you Stef for this beauty<3

Ever since the debate was announced, Sweetie had been given enough time to be privately frustrated that she would not be given an advanced copy of the questions before the actual debate. Rather, she would have to practice blind and hope for the best. It frustrated her to know end. Mrs. Patton and Chrysanta heard about it nonstop in private. Yet today she displayed confidence and a sense of calm. She didn't know the questions, yet she was confident that she could give careful answers as long as she didn't rush herself.

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"What is the most important change you hope to offer magical Britain?"

A blanket question to begin left Sweetie with a little bit of time to think before she gave her own answer, as others had their own turn before hers. While she would have wanted to pay attention to their answers in this question, along with any other, she had left this to Mrs. Patton and Chrysanta to each write down so they can discuss it all back in Mrs. Patton or the Ruskin parlor. For now, she was here, and she had to focus on her own answers.

What would she deem the most important? It was too much of a blanket question. No one would be satisfied with the answer. Keep calm. Smile with polite confidence. "A voice for the magical citizen. Plenty of magical members of British society have expressed their own frustrations with how they have no say in how our country is run. Whether it be our citizens who cannot vote, those who can and are still not satisfied in the results that are yielded. I'm sorry to say, a broad question is met heavily with a broad answer. I am here to listen to the people of magical Britain."

Good Merlin, she sounded too preachy. What else could she add? Something that didn't make her sound like she thought she was above it all. "My actions, of course, will never appease every voter of our great nation. Compromise will need to be made if we as a country are to move forward and achieve more. I hope to facilitate unity and strength for our great country." One thing she really hoped for was further practice on her political speeches.

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"Miss Sweetie Whitledge. You have been criticized for your lack of experience; what do you say to address that criticism?"

Wow. That one was actually incredibly predictable. Everyone seemed to be at a snap decision that age meant everything. She gave a small nod of understanding and another polite smile. It wasn't even strained. She didn't feel altogether annoyed by this inquiry. It was better than the gender question. "My age does not speak to a complete lack of experience. I have experience in multiple Ministry departments, along with being a respected member of the esteemed Society for the Transfiguration Arts. Should we speak to a few years past, I do have leadership training through club presidency in Hogwarts for my last years of attendance." Her accomplishments were not a stranger to that of the public. She knew she would need more.

On top of accomplishments, she needed to address what made her age a benefit without isolating older voters. She couldn't, not really. Not those who were unwilling to be patient and listen. Damn. She took a brief moment before continuing. "I can not only speak towards my most recent accomplishments, but the benefits of a young minister. My health will be a great asset to government security, with a slimmer likelihood that I will need active healer care." She needed to move to a different point. Hoping desperately that older voters didn't feel as though she was talking down about them. It is true, however, that she would have so many more years to make an impact. No matter if she remained in office or not, should she get in at all.

She wished that she had some water. It had become a quiet coping mechanism for nerves so that she didn't tap her fingers or fuss with her dress. This wasn't normally like her. Yet this was completely new to her. She wasn't the socialite type, despite what Witch Weekly had mockingly said about her. "My own platform's foundation is about listening to the magical citizen, how many of my older opponents can say the same? I am here to learn from my fellow citizen, at the age where learning is still a welcome prospect, yet also at the age that I have the mind to know my own ideals and what must be considered right and wrong." Keep a calm face. Don't try to keep calm inside because that would be a quick failure. Just keep a calm demeanor and leave the rest to the day.

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"Would you change or maintain the marriage ban between humans and non-humans?"

A rush of confidence flowed through Sweetie, and she felt a sense of relief. While she continued to maintain her calm composure, she could feel the slight relaxation of her shoulders and she chastised herself mentally for it. She didn't want to appear weak during any of this. Like she couldn't handle herself and answers that some of the other candidates might claim to be all too easy. If they were actually making any real effort, none of these questions should be easily. She wasn't calmed by this question because it was easy. She was calmed because this was a topic she had a degree of genuine passion for. Something she wanted to make active effort with. Oh, she knew she would get the various opinions now.

"I plan to make changes to the ban. We cannot be afraid of a diverse population. We can, however, be cautious about unions that may have begun through less than honest means. The primary concern is relations such as with humans and veela. As many are aware, veela hold a specific power of persuasion that leads to a common concern that a marriage is not altogether genuine. There may also be other non-humans with other motives outside of love and a desire to build a family. Plenty of marriages between humans also face these struggles, and we need to be additionally cautious given the added advantages that certain non-humans possess, even over wizard-kind." She hated to talk like that, but it was true. She had to find a middle ground. Trust just wasn't there. If they were to get any changes to the marriage ban at all, they were going to have to acknowledge the fears that the people who placed it in the first plan had. The ones that when further than pure dislike.

She also had a practical side to this. It would take work and further research, but an idea was a start, and a start should be seen as a good thing, right? "My primary goal is to expand the existing relevant divisions in the Department for the Regulation & Control of Magical Creatures to include specialized marriage licenses that require thorough screening and a special license fee to pay for the additional resources. Each marriage would be handled on a case-by-case basis." This solution would be most difficult for those of working class, though she was sure they could find a reasonable method through common-law marriage or sponsorship should the couple have the means. It wasn't a perfect solution, but it was better than what they had. More realistic than saying 'yep, I'll just drop that and you can't do anything about it!'.

Sweetie is a perfectionist and she stresses Kelly out. Love this angst machine, want the world for her.

  

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Magic by Lady!

Wanna be there for Sweetie during her post-election slump?

Clyde Armstrong had only meant to step out and take a smoke break in the midst of the ministerial debate. As much as the ideas of the debates had excited him the day before, now that they were here, aside from a for candidates, most were quite frankly let downs. Being a scribe, his opinion wasn’t the most paramount though. After trading places with his secondary, Clyde took advantage of the seemingly fresh air out on the Whitehall street and flicked his lighter on.

Or at least, he tried.

“Damn, would you work?” He muttered under his breath. After three flicks, he’d given up, and looked around to see if someone else might have had a lighter. It was then that he realized the crowd around him had paused. People exchanged nervous glances as if something had collectively swept through the crowd and they were waiting for the aftermath. Having been too busy with his lighter, Clyde had clearly missed it.

“What in Merlin’s name?”

He didn’t have to wait for an answer. The air began to vibrate around him and he felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand up. He heard a woosh of air; the kind that he had only heard within the magical world once when he’d visited a sanctuary that his cousin had dragged him to. Then, a roar ripped through the air, and the wizard swore that he could feel his bones vibrate. Dropping his lighter, Clyde clapped a hand over his ears, his lips still clinging to the cigarette in his mouth.

The noise stopped, and Clyde only had a second to look up and see everyone doing the same thing until the shadow of the creature swept over; copper-red scales, and a spike-horned head, and a wingspan that covered the entire road. When it roared again, it was to spit a pillar of fire onto the buildings a few blocks away. Clyde had already dropped everything, including the cigarette, and pelted back into the library.

“Mr. Armstrong, you’re still early they haven’t —” The welcome witch began, but Clyde ran past her and burst through the double doors of the event hall.

“DRAGON!!!” He bellowed, sprinting up to the Minister. There wasn’t time to keep it discrete. Muggles had already seen it; if the crowd didn’t hear about it now, they would later. “Sir, a dragon just flew past the library. I saw it headed for the river, and it was — aiming at buildings. Muggles were on the streets too.” It came out in an inelegant breathless rush.

As he doubled over clutching a stitch in his side, there was a quiet but growing chorus of screams that began to spill in from outside.

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Please contact a member of the staff team if you have an NPC post to go up!

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The debate was going — honestly, Ross was not sure if it was going well. But it was going, and then the scribe sprinted towards him yelling about dragons. If he’d doubted it, the sound of screams solidified it — and while Mr. Armstrong seemed distraught, he also seemed competent.

The reason Ross had been Minister of Magic for so long was that he was good in a crisis. He already had sonorous cast to amplify his voice, so he stood and set off wand sparks, hoping to garner the attention of those in the room.

Luckily he also had access to some of Britain’s notables — although several of them were more useful than others, and if he used one, he would have to use all of them. Well. Many hands made light work, as it were.

”There will be an orderly exit via the floo network of those in this building who are not advised to go to the scene,” Ross said, ”Mr. Prewett will ensure and supervise an orderly departure.”

”Mr. Crouch, I believe the magical port of London is half yours,” Ross said, with an angle of his head, ”Go establish our emergency headquarters. I’ll meet you there.” Thank Merlin Crouch was here; Ross didn’t want anyone fighting over who was in charge of the scene.

”Mr. Picardy will contact the Department of Magical Transportation and ensure Rowle is there — post-haste. Please ensure they contact Captain Darrow.”

”Miss Whitledge, you will go to the Ministry and contact the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures,” Ross said. Hopefully she was not too young to handle her old coworkers. ”Send the Restraint Bureau. All of them.”

”Mr. Dempsey will do the same, for Magical Accidents & Catastrophes,” Ross said, ”They are all to come to the port of London and begin rescue operations.”

”Mr. Maxime, you will contact the —” Ross winced at the sound of the screaming, which kicked up a notch ”— obliviators, and ensure they are here immediately. Feel free to join them.” Given his association with Cassian Valenduris, it ought to be doable.

”Mr. Lupin,” Ross announced, ”Join Mr. Faustus Prewett in establishing a barrier around the incident. Hit wizards, aurors — whatever you need to get it done.” Ross, who was rather fond of Faustus Prewett, had never been as relieved to have him already-here as he was now.

And that just left — ”Mr. Wright,” Ross said, ”You will have first-access to the floo, go fetch healers from both hospitals, and come back here, to help people from the streets evacuate through this building and access triage. When they finish, Miss Whitledge and Mr. Dempsey will do the same.”

Ross exhaled. ”Now,” he breathed, hoping that anyone who had not moved yet would. He was leaving, but today — today, anyone who wanted his job worked for him.

”Mrs. Ainsworth,” he said, turning to his secretary, ”Let’s go alert the Prime Minister.”

OOC: You are encouraged to jump on these plot nuggets, but please do so in new threads and not in this one. Anyone who has not yet answered the debate questions has until midnight EST on 9/21/2023 to do so, but should assume they are answering the questions before the interruption of Mr. Clyde Armstrong.
IC AREAS AFFECTED -
Anything near the Port of London will end up within the barrier
A magically-erected site near the Port of London - Emergency Headquarters for Department of Int’l Magical Cooperation, Magical Transportation, Regulation & Control of Magical Creatures, and Magical Accidents and Catastrophes
The Museum of Magical Miscellany - Triage/Evac Site for healers & wounded
The Ministry floo and the floo between the Emergency Headquarters, the Museum, and both hospitals will be the only floo “online” in London 60 minutes after Mr. Armstrong bursts in at 5:45 PM.

The following 3 users Like Justin Ross's post:3 users Like Justin Ross's post
   Aldous Crouch, Juliana Ainsworth, Philomena Sprout

Precisely two candidates before The News...

It was not actually a debate. Not in the traditional sense. However, the arrangment suited Aldous just fine: he was a man who favoured preparation over working off the cuff (forewarned was forearmed, after all). Without full scale debate today, he would gain a better understanding of each candidate, their capabilities, and their weaker points, without coming under direct fire. At least, Aldous hoped that would be the way things rolled out—even in the most civilized company, one could never predict with complete accuracy how an evening would go.

He addressed each question lobbed his way carefully, taking a moment to pause and consider before responding.

"What is the most important change you hope to offer magical Britain?"

Stay the course. It had been instilled in Aldous from a young age that if one did not make waves, if one kept the trains running on time, all would be well. One did not need to make sweeping proclamations or dramatic changes to have a positive impact on others.

"Minister Ross," a nod at the wizard in question, though Aldous addressed the crowd directly, "and his predecessors have, by and large, done a sound job of keeping the gears of Magical Britain running smoothly." There was the time Spavin had lost the plot entirely, but that was no longer precisely recent. "Change is not necessarily to be lauded—at least, not the sort of change I think the voters would expect—empire and glory and a monument and all that. I think that the changes I am most wont to impliment are small, almost inconsequential, but resulting in improvements to our day to day lives. Security, the economy, and innovation have all occurred and improved for generations. The job of the Minister of Magic is not to reinvent the wheel, but to ensure it is in excellent repair."

"Mr. [Crouch]. What distinguishes you from other candidates who work in domestically-focused departments of the Ministry?"

He had, of course, expected this question, or something in that area. Aldous had maintained since announcing his candidacy, though, that his position gave him unique qualifications—and so answering it proved easy enough.

"I have been fortunate to represent this country internationally for nearly a decade, first as assistant head of my department and then, for seven years, as head of the Department of International Magical Co-Operation. Mine is a name recognized in the governments of other magical nations, and one that carries with it a reputation for honesty and competence." Competence oughtn't have been a selling point, but looking at some of the other candidates...

"Furthermore, this post has necessitated an awarenessand understanding of other departments as well, both here and abroad. I do not consider myself above any of my learned adverseries," a good-natured chuckle, scripted, but genuine enough, "but would consider this a different sort of advantage than they have been able to develop."

"Would you change or maintain the marriage ban between humans and non-humans?"

"Neither."

Aldous knew there were likely individuals who actually wanted to marry goblins or what have you in the audience, just as he knew there were those who staunchly opposed it. He was not about to alienate either camp, regardless of their side, and regardless of his own personal beliefs.

"It is a delicate matter of law and ethics, and no one individual should be the deciding voice in either direction. Should the Wizengamot as a collective deem it prudent to re-evaluate, I would hope that this evaluation is done with widespread and careful consideration of all factors involved."

Obfuscation could be a tool, if wielded correctly.

"Ministers typically appoint at least one member of the Wizengamot during their terms. If elected, who would you chose for Wizengamot, and why?"

"I do not believe," Aldous said easily, this question, though unexpected, proving an easy one to answer, "that this is a question any candidate should be answering this evening. I would be wary of any gentleman—or lady," he added, politely inclining his head towards poor, misguided Miss Whitledge, "who felt compelled to give a public answer, for fear their intended appointment was considered not based upon merit, but based on political advantage in this election. With that said," Aldous concluded, "Magical Britain is blessed with a number of citizens, both within and out of the Ministry of Magic, who possess unique experience and sound judgement. I have little doubt any candidate would have no trouble making a strong selection." If they cared about doing so, at least.

  

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— Aldous walks with a cane and pronounced limp as the result of a splinching accident. —

— graphics by lady ❤ —

Bernard hated this...he hated everything about it and yet here he was. He should have told Manny to get fucked when he had this brilliant idea but by the time he and Francesca had gotten through with selling him on the idea it hadnt seemed entirely terrible. This debate however, had swung the arm back around to bad idea. There was a reason he was

'What do I have to offer...he mused, 'I do not believe that those who want to be powerful, are the best placed to wield it. I have sought to be good at what I do, only ever put myself in the position to do a job I believe that I can do well.
Titles are of little importance to me, I think that that perspective, that view of this position as one of public and humble service is a perspective that I bring that few of my counterparts on this stage seem to share. There are those who seek to use it to prove the worth of their age, or gender. There are those who seek to use it to set themselves above their peers, to prove their intelligence, or superiority. I believe I am alone in seeing this as an act of service'

The question about Spavin was anticipated. He hadn't met the man but a few times in the broadest social sense. It had been clear, at least to those who were close to him why Spavin had nominated him. 'Mister Spavin, sought the favour of my family' he started, seeing no reason not to be honest, 'His nomination was based on his assumption of my views and an attempt to curry favour with those to whom I am intimately connected. I was never ambitious for that sort of favour, never attempted to curry the favour or good opinion of those in positions of power then - or since, as I am sure you Minister Ross - and indeed your predecessor, Former minister Urquart.' anyone in the ministry who knew him could probably attest to that, 'I am - at my core, however a public servant, a ministry man, but certainly not -and never Spavins.' he tone was fairly flat and emotionless as he delivered this, looking no where except at Manny who he had spotted in the crowd grinning like a beard with an idiot attached.


"Would you change or maintain the marriage ban between humans and non-humans?"
I believe it was a blunt tool implemented at the time, I believe it requires finesse- like any area of law it should be open to development and further review he explained, I believe a more thorough and methodically review of the underlying basis for the ban, its rational and objective purpose, and the ongoing effect should be reviewed. Especially now that some time has passed since the implementation and we perhaps have a better understanding of the effect of the ban on the population and society in general.'

"What do you feel is the most pressing matter for the Minister's office both a) domestically and b) internationally?"

Domestically I believe we need to review the overall focus of the ministry, are money and resources being put into the areas that are giving the most direct benefit for the tax funds collected from the citizenry. We are approaching the new century, and need to prepare to meet it. The old formulas, the old approaches will not serve us in a rapidly changing and rapidly shrinking world. One of the first operations I believe would benefit any new Minister would be to form a citizens assembly to ascertain what a 20th century magical England would look like. One cannot build without good plans.'

"Ministers typically appoint at least one member of the Wizengamot during their terms. If elected, who would you chose for Wizengamot, and why?"

'On this I agree with Mister Crouch, I do not believe that with the current information available to any member here, that that decision could be prudently and well made, and such a high honour, and lifelong posting should not be made in haste.' his lips were tight and tense, 'In order to answer properly, I would need to review the content of the current Wizengemot, their skills, experience and expertise and would suggest promoting an individual whose skills are not yet represented in that esteemed body.'

He was matter of fact, his tone perhaps less passionate than some of his companions on the stage. He had been wondering how much longer it would go on when the tumult through the crowd drew his attention and he watched as the ripple of shoved bodies and disgruntled attendees made its way to the front where a frantic-looking man yelled up at Ross.

Had he said Dragons? Bernard, like many others, stood in shocked horror for a moment that seemed to stretch into infinity before all hell broke loose. There was screaming and yelling from the crowd, and he heard Ross instruct him to get people out of here...that he could do. (Bernard will continue HERE)

  

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“What is the most important change you hope to offer magical Britain?”

“Progress,” Jude said simply. “There is always more progress to be made if we are striving towards a fairer society. We have made some great strides in recent years towards equality,” because Minister Ross and Urquart had done what they could to push for it, if their predecessors and the old guard of the Wizengamot had not, “but there is further to go. The government should represent the interests of the people – people of all classes – including those without generational inheritances or landowning capital or centuries of pureblood connections from which to profit.”

Perhaps he should have equivocated more, tried expressly not to alienate voters or aggravate half the audience with statements like that, if he wanted to be elected; but Jude had been sharing his beliefs publicly for far too long to pretend ambiguity or soften his principles now. “If a society’s success is judged upon how it treats its poorest citizens, equality is the strongest foundation we can work towards. I’m interested in a system that can represent and benefit everyone.”

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“Mr. Jude Wright. If you had the power to change only one viewpoint held by one of your competitors, which would it be?”

(Only one? That was just unfair.) “If I could change a viewpoint, it would be the preoccupation with defining people by their identity alone: members of the magical community are too often reduced to what they are, rather than what they choose to do. It is that kind of attitude that encourages differentiation and discrimination, and helps nobody. It makes no difference whether someone is pureblood or muggleborn. Women – who’ve had the same education as men; who are subject to the same laws;” (and yet were frequently left worse off by them), “who embark on the same careers or else contribute lifetimes of unpaid labour; who make up half of society – should not be barred from equal participation in its politics.” The vote, to start with; though that alone would not undo the rest. “People with non-human parentage or who are afflicted with lycanthropy, who never chose their situation, should have adequate protection, not persecution, in our laws.” He didn’t need to look at Picardy as he said it, and didn’t try to find Kieran in the crowd.

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“Would you change or maintain the marriage ban between humans and non-humans?”

Most of the candidates, Jude expected, would agree there ought to be more nuance. “If not repealing the marriage ban altogether, at the very least I believe there should be some capacity for appeal against it, dependent on individual circumstances. It is unfortunate that some who strive to be law-abiding in all respects have been maligned by the ban and their inability to marry.” (Better that he didn’t get into his opinions of the institution of marriage today, or there might be riots.) “In addition,” Jude added, thinking darkly of the Hogwarts governors and what might happen under someone like Picardy, “I believe the right of all children to an education must be protected at all costs, no matter their parentage.”

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“Ministers typically appoint at least one member of the Wizengamot during their terms. If elected, who would you chose for Wizengamot, and why?”

“I do not believe, as it stands, that the Wizengamot is fit for purpose as our sole legislative body,” Jude said carefully. The thing about not having a written constitution was that nothing was bound by it to remain that way for eternity, if it no longer served its purpose – and the Wizengamot, in his opinion, was one of the ways magical Britain was being held back by the past. “Members of the Wizengamot have more responsibility and more power than anyone in magical Britain, and can retain their seat for life. That is longer than anyone else in government –” including the Minister of Magic, “and means that some on it have served since the beginning of the century. Yes, it ensures stability for the country – but we shouldn’t choose stability at the cost of stagnation. I believe the Wizengamot is in need of some reform – whether by reducing the length of service or increasing the membership to more broadly, and more proportionally, represent the society it legislates for. Or indeed, perhaps by introducing another elected Assembly entirely.” The muggle world was ahead in this already, with a House of Lords balanced by the House of Commons. He could go on; but he supposed he had probably gone far enough for today.

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The following 3 users Like Jude Wright's post:3 users Like Jude Wright's post
   Dorian Rosier, Jessamine Parkinson, Juliana Ainsworth

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What a cobbled-together collection of oddities here. To think anyone thought of him as an outlier here – half of the others here were eccentrics and dangerous fools. None of the Ministry men were best inspired, either – though Emerett fancied he might be able to work with one or two, if it came to it.

“What is the most important change you hope to offer magical Britain?”

“Governance in the last decade or two has been – to some extent, confused,” Emerett said, in his ‘academic lecturing’ tone, with just the barest touch of condescension about it. Well, he had had nothing to do with it, so he could afford to criticise the present state of things. “Messy. Bans and repeals, failed bills and reforms. Mixed successes and endless vacillating, despite the Minister’s best efforts. It is difficult to know what the Ministry stands for. Were I elected, I should like to bring a clear vision for our future. One that I hope begins with a new sureness of purpose, a sense of security in a firm, safe pair of hands.”

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“Mr. Emerett Picardy. You are historically very focused on the question of werewolves. What would you do to make your running of the Ministry more holistic?”

“My work on werewolves has perhaps taken precedence in the public eye – which is entirely understandable, given the notable spate of werewolf attacks and turnings over the last few years – but my years of research have covered a much broader focus.” (Vampires, hags, goblins; he had disparaging opinions of lots of things, and it was a shame people forgot that.) “In fact, I began my career as an Auror – so I have experienced more than one department of the Ministry myself, and understand something of their different perspectives. However, I believe society’s problems can only be solved if all areas of the government are properly aligned – internal cooperation is of the utmost priority, if the Ministry intends on any sustainable improvements to the wizarding world. Our laws must reflect our practices; departments should work in tandem, and so on. On a particular issue, I would draw up committees with representatives from each relevant department to work jointly on a resolution.”

To demonstrate his extraordinary self-restraint and holistic attitude, here Emerett did not even leap for the opportunity to answer the easy question on the marriage ban. (And never mind that everyone already knew his answer.)

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“What do you feel is the most pressing matter for the Minister's office both a) domestically and b) internationally?”

“On both fronts, in fact, security must be at the forefront. How can we prosper and succeed as a society until we are entirely safe? Everyone in this room has no doubt lost a loved one to an avoidable disaster. We have suffered far too much in the last decades – from plague and fire to even disaster hosting the Quidditch World Cup. Disaster at sea aboard the Santa Antonina cruise; chaos at the World Market, unsolved serial killings on the streets of Hogsmeade. It is imperative that we do whatever it takes to eliminate all unnecessary tragedies.” He would run a tighter ship. Throw more people in Azkaban if he had to. “I am prepared to reassess the current workings of Law Enforcement and restructure if necessary,” Emerett silently snubbed Maxime and Lupin beside him as best he could, and then took a haughty dig at Crouch for good measure, “and simultaneously to begin to repair our international reputation so that we are not considered, by the rest of the magical world, an unfortunate liability. We are Britain, after all: we ought to be amongst the leaders of the world.”

He was satisfied that he, at least, had spoken nothing but sense. He only hoped that some people could see it.

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The following 2 users Like Emerett Picardy's post:2 users Like Emerett Picardy's post
   Gideon Browne, Juliana Ainsworth

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"What is the most important change you hope to offer magical Britain?"
Lionel contemplated this question for a moment before answering. "One of the changes I would like to be able to create is better protection when it comes to those Beings such as vampires and werewolves. As well as protection for those afflicted." Personally, he would rather they not have to deal with them at all but they existed. "Often, the youngest of them cannot control themselves and have sadly added to the number of murder or assault victims found in Britain. Perhaps if better safeguards and protections were in place, these tragedies for both parties could be prevented." He knew not every vampire or werewolf gave a damn about what damage they caused living humans nor did Lionel really give much a damn about the non-human Beings. But he was tired as hell so many murders of magical citizens turning out to have been a vampire or werewolf attack. Attacks that could potentially be prevented.


"Mr. LIONEL LUPIN. What do you believe most distinguishes you as a candidate from Maxime, who works in the same department and announced his campaign prior to yours?"
Well, he was not French, for one. "I have a wealth more experience and was born and raised on British soil. Maxime is a brilliant young man but there is simply no getting around the fact that he is French. I do not believe that a man hailing from another country should represent magical Britain."


"Would you change or maintain the marriage ban between humans and non-humans?"
"For the most part, I would maintain it. It exists for a reason. However, I also feel that those children born of unions when it was still legal should not be treated as being illegitimate. I would seek to work alongside the Wizengamot to find a favorable middle ground on how to handle these now illegitimate marriages that had occured prior to the ban." Not that he really wanted humans and non-humans to marry one another but people had their weird preferences.

  

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