Cabinet Battle #2 (2014 Workshop)

Lyrics

[WASHINGTON] The issue on the table: France is in the middle of their own revolution. Do we commit aid and troops to this alliance or do we declare neutrality? Remember, my decision on this matter is not up to congressional approval. Secretary Jefferson, you have 45 seconds [JEFFERSON] When we were on death's door, when we were needy We made a promise, we signed a treaty We needed money and guns and half a chance Uh, who provided those funds? [MADISON] France [JEFFERSON] In return, they didn't ask for land Only a promise that we'd lend a hand And stand with them if they fought against oppressors And revolution is messy, but now is the time to stand Stand with our brothers as they fight against tyranny I know that Alexander Hamilton is here And he would rather not have this debate I'll remind you: he is not Secretary of State He knows nothing of loyalty Smelling like new money, dresses like fake royalty Desperate to rise above his station Everything he does betrays the ideals of our nation [JEFFERSON] Oh, uh, and if you [JEFFERSON/MADISON] Don't know, now ya know, Mr. President [WASHINGTON] Thank you, Secretary Jefferson Secretary Hamilton, your reply 45 seconds [ELIZA] Let it go... [HAMILTON] You must be out of your goddamn mind if you think The President is gonna bring the nation to the brink Of meddling in the middle of a military mess A game of chess, where France is Queen and Kingless We signed a treaty with a King whose head is now in a basket Would you like to take it out and ask it? "Should we honor our treaty, King Louis' head?" Oh… I can't hear him, he's super dead! [WASHINGTON] Enough! Hamilton is right [JEFFERSON] Mr. President— [WASHINGTON] We're too fragile to start another fight [JEFFERSON] But sir, do we not fight for freedom? [WASHINGTON] Sure, when the French figure out who's gonna lead 'em [JEFFERSON] The people are leading— [WASHINGTON] The people are rioting There's a difference. Frankly, it's a little disquieting you would let your ideals blind you to reality Hamilton [HAMILTON] Sir! [WASHINGTON] Draft a statement of neutrality