David Palmer (24) – Narrowly surviving a complicated assassination attempt during his campaign, Palmer was elected President despite his family’s involvement in a scandal that was sort of forgotten 2/3 of the way through Season One. As President, another assassination attempt exposed him to nerve gas that withered his right hand, thought he survived. After option not to run for reelection, he was still considered a valuable advisor to the next Administration, taking de facto control on at least one occasion. Sadly, after his term was over, a third assassination attempt was successful, and David Palmer died.
While President, Palmer was controversial, though still considered a shoo-in for reelection. He was widely regarded by other world leaders and presided over multiple periods of crisis, where his calming and inspirational presence helped the nation see the storm through.
Pros: A sterling record of service, a powerful leader, and the one man Jack Bauer trusts. He’s tough as nails, and did more to foster positive international relations than any President before him.
Cons: Other than being dead? Well, there’s the wife. Sherry Palmer participated in at least one illegal conspiracy, covered up felonies, falsified evidence, and all in all, was evil.
Overall: Take the best parts of John McCain and the best parts of Barack Obama and combine them into one man with a deep voice and the ability to kick ass when needed, and you have got yourself a President. I might actually vote for him this year.
