What if there was a President who’s poll numbers were sinking, who didn’t truly believe in constitutional limits of power but loved all the bells and whistles that came with the position but didn’t want to leave office when his/her time was up? This should have been the premise beyond “Red Dawn” where the United States faces a takeover by an enemy power. This enemy doesn’t truly invade the country but is invited to come in by the “President” so he/she could reign way past their term in office and have the dictatorial powers that come with their new position. Here’s how I would such an action pact thriller.
(1) The President attends a gala fundraiser with his/her most elite supporters from the press, actors and business welfare participants in attendance. While thousands of ordinary citizens outside protest his/her policies.
(1) Several “terrorist attacks” occur in the United States including one inflicting major injuries to those protesting the President. The President responds by declaring martial law before the election. The election is also “postponed” and other freedoms are severely restricted.
(2) The President invites a friendly nation to help deal with the unrest that is occurring due to these restrictions and a secret deal is signed.
(3) These are claimed to be”temporary measures” that are there for the common good and bring peace and fairness to our country.
(4) A small town in Texas sees the true invasion occur right before their eyes.