"Tim, if you'd told me three years ago I'd be subservient to a walking, talking cheeto, I'd have called you crazy," Miguel said.
"Me too, honestly, but being a part of the UEO shields us from the worst of it," Tim answered.
"I just don't know. The Muslim bans, the banning of global warming research… it's ridiculous. How anyone can continue denying global warming after all the research we've done is beyond the pale."
"He quietly kicked a bunch of Muslims out of the military, too. Happened to a couple kids I was friends with on the Clinton. They wanted to re-up, but were told no, with no reason given. It was the same time I re-upped, no problems." Tim added.
"I knew a couple Muslims who were kicked out, too, on minor disciplinary matters that should have gotten them no more than a write-up," Miguel said.
"Hopefully the UEO protects those who are left," Tim looked doubtful.
"Hopefully, but this is what I'm talking about. I'm not sure I can support this anymore. I'm not sure I want to be a part of it," Miguel said.
"What are your other options?" Tim asked.
"I don't know. I'm a sailor. I've always wanted to be a sailor. I still want to be a sailor." Miguel sighed, "there aren't really other professions where one can be a sailor."
"No, there's not. Look, it's only 2 more years, and then we'll elect someone better. Stick with us. Stick with Captain Bridger. He pretty much does his own thing anyway and I'm sure he won't let any harm come to anyone under his command if there is absolutely anything he can do about it."