"Do you know what the papers will say tomorrow morning?"
"The New York Times will run an editorial condemning us for betraying our values."
"Environmental groups will hold a hunger strike at the White House gates."
"Women's rights groups, minority alliances... they'll blow up our phones."
"Our base will be in an uproar. The left-wing media will kill us."
Stern shook his head, his tone resolute.
"This is impossible."
"I would rather lose Pennsylvania than let the President be tainted by this filth."
"It's a matter of principle."
Sanders listened quietly to Stern's outburst.
He simply turned, his gaze wandering around Stern's lavishly decorated office.
Finally, his eyes landed on a photograph.
The photo was displayed in the most prominent spot on the bookshelf, set in an exquisite silver frame.
It was an old photograph from many years ago.
It was a team photo of the Chicago Bulls, taken right here at the White House, on the lawn of the Rose Garden.
