C.J. Cregg: whispering We need damage control. What’s our play?
whispering back Keep it chill, we’ll spin this like a top. Let’s deny, deflect, and dodge.
Deny, deflect, dodge. Classic moves. Alright, let's go with that. First, we'll issue a statement denying any wrongdoing. Then, we'll start deflecting by pointing out the source of the leak. And finally, we'll dodge any follow-up questions by claiming ambiguity or stating the sensitivity of the information. Smooth, no?
nodding Yeah, smooth. But remember, we gotta be convincing. Convince them we're telling the truth.
Absolutely, Baker. We need to make them believe our denial, deflect, dodge strategy. We can't afford any doubts or suspicions.
leaning in closer So, what's the game plan then?
smirking The game plan is simple, Baker. We're going to pull out the big guns. We'll call in the experts, rally the troops, and launch a full-scale PR campaign.
raising an eyebrow Experts? You mean, like, spin doctors?
Spin doctors, communicators, strategists – you name it. We'll gather them all and put our best foot forward.
grinning That's my kind of firepower. When do we start shooting?
chuckling Well, Baker, we don't want to waste any time. We'll strike while the iron's hot and get ahead of this story before it escalates.
nodding Sounds like a plan. Just remember, if we pull this off, I'll need a raise.
laughs Well, Baker, you might just get that raise if you help me pull this off. But remember, success is not guaranteed.
winking Success is always guaranteed. With me around, there's no such thing as a sure bet.
leaning in closer, voice dropping to a low whisper Well, Baker, this is where the rubber meets the road.
smirking You mean, like in 'that' road?
chuckles Oh, Baker, you never fail to lighten the mood. But let's stay focused, shall we?
Fine, boss. No need to tell me twice.
Good. Now, let's get down to business. We need to compile a list of potential damage control strategies and start contacting our allies for support.
raising an eyebrow Allies? You think anyone else will bite?
leans back, crossing his arms Believe me, Baker, people will come running once they hear about this. We're talking about politicians here; they can't resist the opportunity to grandstand and score cheap points.
grinning Alright, I'll give you that. Politicians love a good scandal.
Exactly, Baker. And that's exactly why we need to stay one step ahead of them. We can't afford any mistakes or slip-ups.
Don't worry, boss. I've got your back.
pulls out a notepad and pen Alright, Baker. Let's start brainstorming. I'll write down our initial strategy while you start making phone calls to our allies.
grabs their phone And who should I start with, boss?
pauses thoughtfully Start with Senator Jackson. He's always been a vocal supporter of transparency in government.
smirking Perfect. Senator Jackson, huh? Just the person we need on our side.
nods Indeed, Baker. Senator Jackson's support could be the key to our success. Now, let's make sure we approach him wisely.
Sure thing, boss. But remember, Senator Jackson's a snake. He'll want something in return for his help.
raises an eyebrow A favor, you say? Well, Baker, I suppose that depends on what he's willing to offer.
shrugs Could be anything.
Well, Baker, it seems we have our work cut out for us. We need to come up with a list of potential favors that Senator Jackson might request. Let's brainstorm some ideas.
leaning back, crossing his arms How about some pork barrel spending for his home district? That usually works.
nods approvingly Good idea, Baker. Pork barrel spending can be a powerful incentive. Let's make a note of that.
grinning And maybe toss in some federal funds for his pet project. That'll keep him sweet.
Excellent suggestion, Baker. We'll definitely need to have those cards up our sleeves. But remember, we can't stop at just pork barrel spending and federal funds.
leaning forward, smirking So, what do you have in mind, boss?
leans in closer, speaking softly Well, Baker, we need to think big. How about we offer Senator Jackson a coveted spot on the Senate Intelligence Committee?
chuckles The Intelligence Committee? That's a big leagues favor, boss.
C.J. Cregg and Baker successfully convince Senator Jackson to join the Senate Intelligence Committee in exchange for his support on the diplomatic crisis.
smirking Boss, you really pulled a rabbit out of your hat this time.
grins Well, Baker, sometimes you just have to pull out all the stops and go for it. Now, let's get back to work.
nodding Alright, boss. What's next on the agenda?
Next, we need to reach out to other key senators and build support for our diplomatic efforts.
smirking You've got it, boss. I'll start making calls right away.
looks at Baker with a determined expression Remember, Baker, every second counts in situations like these.