Work Text:
The interview
The studio lights cast long shadows across the tidy yet elegant set in the West Wing of the White House. It was the evening of December 29, and the News Channel was broadcasting live annual year-end interview with President James Buchanan Barnes. The air practically crackled with anticipation as millions of eyes nationwide were glued to their screens.
Bucky had been rehearsing for this performance with his advisors for several days, going over countless questions and possible answers over and over again in order to be as well prepared as possible for tonight.
“Two minutes left!” the production manager’s voice rang through the room.
The makeup artist put the finishing touches on the look, applying powder to Bucky's forehead. He himself thought it was all nonsense, but apparently he was alone in his opinion and had no say in the matter.
The renowned moderator, Jonathan Smith, sat across from Bucky at the table. Smith was known for his sharp questions, but also for his respectful tone. Bucky, wearing a black suit with a matching tie, elegant vest, and pocket square, sat upright in his chair, his left hand resting relaxed on the armrest—his advisors considered this detail important to emphasize that the vibranium arm was nothing to be hidden. He appeared composed, his eyes clear, a man who carried the weight of the world but also held the reins of global politics firmly in his hand.
An assistant counted down. "Five, four, three, two, one!"
"Good evening, Mr. President," Smith began, his voice calm and professional. "Thank you for taking the time for this in-depth conversation just before the end of the year. 2033 has been eventful, to say the least. Before we look at some of the greatest challenges and achievements of your presidency at the halfway point, I'd like to begin with a more personal question." He paused briefly before launching into the conversation.
"Mr. Barnes, in November we celebrated Veterans Day. What did that day mean to you?"
"First, I'd like to wish you a good evening, Mr. Smith," Bucky began in a calm voice, then paused briefly. "For me, Veterans Day is... always a time of deep reflection." He leaned back slightly in his chair. "As a soldier who served myself, it is naturally a day of honor. A recognition for all those who risked and often sacrificed their lives to protect our freedoms. I think of the countless men and women who stood beside me, their sacrifices, and their families. I consider it my obligation, as their President, to ensure that their service is never forgotten and that their needs are met."
He paused briefly, his gaze drifting into the distance for a moment as images from his long history flashed before him. "But for me personally, it's also a day that carries a certain weight. Every Veterans Day reminds me not only of what we've given, but also what's been taken from us. The invisible wounds many of us bring home with us. The battles fought in silence—the nightmares, the flashbacks, the sense of isolation. For someone like me living with PTSD, it's a constant reminder of how important it is that we talk about these challenges and offer tangible support."
Smith nodded attentively and continued: "You yourself fought in World War II. And later against alien invaders. Most recently, not quite four years ago, against The Void. What triggered such experiences in you?"
Buckys expression grew serious as the questions delved deeper into his past. "Every battle, every confrontation you experience leaves a mark. World War II was a different kind of battle, a human conflict of unfathomable cruelty that shaped us all. Back then, the enemies were tangible, even if the losses were immeasurable," he began to explain, interlacing his fingers on his desk, his gaze becoming thoughtful. "The later conflicts—the battles against alien invaders, against Thanos, and most recently against The Void—added a new dimension. Suddenly, it wasn't just about human ideologies, but about existential threats, about the survival of the entire species. The standards of horror shifted, and with them, the psychological toll."
After a moment of silence, he repeated Smith's question quietly. "What did that trigger in me? Well, first of all
a deep understanding of the fragility of life and the incredible strength of the human spirit. I saw people pull together under the greatest pressure, protect each other, and fight for what's right. That's something that inspires me to this day."
His voice became a little harsher as he continued. "For someone with my history, with PTSD, experiences like these are like an accelerant. They can reopen old wounds, intensify nightmares, and increase feelings of isolation." A brief, almost invisible twitch ran through his left shoulder. "You learn to live with it. You learn to control your demons, not let them control your life. It's a constant process of healing and adjustment. And it's taught me how important it is that we, as a society, take the mental health of our veterans seriously and provide them with the resources and support they need to win these invisible battles. Because these battles are just as real and painful as any fought on a battlefield."
“What can a soldier do that a civilian cannot?”
Bucky thought for a moment before answering, his gaze firm and direct. "Simply put, you could say: A soldier can survive in combat, follow orders, and function under extreme pressure." He straightened slightly. "But I believe the real answer lies deeper. What a soldier must develop, often to a degree that isn't required of many civilians in everyday life, are certain character traits and a unique mentality. A soldier learns extreme discipline, not only in obedience, but also in self-control under fear and chaos. They learn unwavering loyalty—to the team, to the mission, to the country. They develop incredible adaptability to survive in the most inhospitable environments and respond to unforeseen threats. And perhaps most importantly, they learn to make decisions under incomplete information and extreme time pressure, often with people's lives at stake."
Bucky crossed his arms, a gesture that expressed both thoughtfulness and strength. "That doesn't mean civilians can't possess or develop these qualities," he emphasized in a milder tone. "Quite the opposite. I've met incredibly brave and resilient civilians during my time as President and before."
“When you go shopping, do you do it in a more structured way than I do?”
The question came unexpectedly and made him laugh. A warm, genuine laugh, the kind you rarely saw on the news. It visibly surprised Smith. "Well, that's a question my wife could probably answer better! I can assure you that shopping as president is a very different experience than most people are used to. There's not much spontaneous strolling through the supermarket." He briefly rubbed the graying beard on his chin, a thoughtful grin on his face. "But if we're talking about the time before this office, or when Ava and I manage to take a rare trip, then... yes, I would say I tend toward structure. As a soldier, especially in my earlier years, everything was thought out, planned, efficient. You have a mission, you have a list, you get it done. It sticks."
His expression became a little more serious, but still with a hint of self-deprecation. "I'm the type who goes to the store with a detailed list, works through the aisles in a logical order, and makes sure I haven't forgotten anything. No unnecessary detours, no impulse purchases—unless Ava spots something she really wants, then all lists are invalid," he added with a wink. "I think part of it also comes from the need to regain control over things I've had no control over for a very long time. A simple task like shopping can be a small island of order. It might seem excessive to outsiders, but it's a way to calm the mind knowing you've got at least that small part of your life under control. It's... efficient. And efficiency can be a kind of peace."
Smith calmly reviewed his notes. "You're not an isolated case. Many veterans suffer from PTSD. Some become disabled, some never return to their normal lives. The suicide rate is high. Is government support sufficient, or should more be done?"
His previously casual demeanor gave way to focused determination as Bucky took a deep breath before answering. "You raise a point that's personally dear to me and of the utmost importance to our country. The numbers are alarming, and every single one represents a life that has suffered too much, or one that has been tragically lost. No, the government's support is still not sufficient. It has improved, no doubt. But we're still a long way from where we need to be."
He placed his hands on the table and spoke emphatically. "We have a moral obligation as a nation to stand with those who have sacrificed everything for us. PTSD, trauma, and the struggle to reintegrate into civilian life are not weaknesses, but the scars of a service that deserves our protection and support. The high suicide rate among veterans is a national failure that we can no longer tolerate."
He realized his answers were longer than planned, but the topic was too important to cover in a few sentences. "We've already taken important steps. We've increased budgets for the VA to improve access to qualified mental health care. Existing programs and new approaches to research into new treatments are being expanded. But we need to do much more." He raised a hand to emphasize his point and placed his left index finger over his right to begin his list. "First, we must completely eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness—especially among veterans. We must create a culture where seeking help is seen as a strength, not a weakness. To do this, leaders, both military and political, must speak openly about their own experiences and set an example."
Smith smiled. "You can tell you're putting your heart and soul into this."
Bucky shrugged apologetically. "Sorry, you hit my nerve," he chuckled, adding, "This might take a little longer. How much time do we have?" As before, he continued counting on his fingers. "Second, we need to make the transition from military to civilian life more seamless. Many problems arise precisely during this critical phase. That means better job integration programs, housing assistance, and the creation of social networks that embrace and continue the camaraderie of the military. Third, we need to advance research to find even more effective treatments for PTSD and other traumas. And fourth, we need to increase government accountability. We need to ensure that resources get to where they're needed and that programs actually achieve the desired results. Every veteran in need deserves the best possible support, without bureaucratic hurdles."
“Those are laudable goals, Mr. President,” Smith agreed.
Bucky concluded with a firm look: "As President, but also as someone who knows these struggles firsthand, I assure you: This issue is the top priority of my administration. We will not rest until every one of our veterans has the chance to live a full and whole life."
“What does your wife think about this?”
His gaze softened noticeably, and a warm smile crossed his face. "My wife, Ava, is not only my greatest supporter in this matter, but also a driving force." He leaned back slightly, his eyes radiating a mixture of pride and deep affection. "For her, supporting veterans and all those suffering from similar invisible burdens is not just a government function, but, like mine, a matter of the heart. She is my partner in this endeavor—not just at my side as a wife, but as an active creator of a better future where no one is left alone with their trauma."
"That sounds very interesting, and suggests a deep mutual love for each other and a lot of harmony. Is there also conflict in the Barnes household?"
Bucky leaned back, smiling, a sincere, open smile on his lips. "That's a question every married couple probably faces. And yes, I can assure you that there are arguments in the Barnes household too—just like in any other marriage." He laughed softly. "The idea that the President and the First Lady live in perfect, uninterrupted harmony may be a nice image, but it's not reality. We are two separate people, each with our own pasts, our own opinions, and, of course, our own quirks. Disagreements can arise from time to time, be it over political decisions, scheduling, or everyday matters."
Bucky became a little more thoughtful. "But if there's one thing I've learned, it's this: These little frictions matter. They force us to listen, to compromise, and to rise above ourselves. And at the end of the day...,“ he paused briefly, „at the end of the day, we both know we can rely on each other, no matter what."
He glanced briefly at his left hand, where his wedding ring gleamed, which he hadn't hidden since their marriage came to public. "What matters isn't the absence of conflict, but how you deal with it. We learn from each other every day, and our love and respect for one another are the foundation that keeps us together. I'd say that makes our relationship even stronger and more authentic in a way."
"Nicely summarized," Smith affirmed, before changing the subject: "How do you rate Sam Wilson as Captain America? Is he a worthy successor to Steve Rogers?"
When Sam Wilson's name was mentioned, Bucky's expression brightened, and a genuine, appreciative smile spread across his face. "Sam Wilson as Captain America... he's not just a worthy successor to Steve Rogers, he's, in my eyes, the perfect Captain America for our time." Nodding slowly, he chose his words carefully. "Steve and Sam may, at first glance, be very different. Steve was the soldier from another era, a symbol of a certain kind of idealism and unwavering morality, born out of the turmoil of World War II. Sam, on the other hand, brings a different perspective—one that is deeply human, grounded, and incredibly relevant to the challenges we face today. He served himself, but he's also experienced firsthand the realities of modern America, its complexities and its divisions. He understands people on a whole different level because he comes from the grassroots and knows the struggles of everyday life."
Bucky crossed his arms, a gesture of respect. "Sam embodies the values of Captain America—courage, integrity, standing up for the most vulnerable—in a way that is both inspiring and approachable. He's a listener, a bridge builder, someone who seeks to bring people together rather than drive them apart. He leads not just with his shield, but with his heart and his conviction. He's proven that the title of Captain America is more than just a symbol; it's a commitment to live the ideals of America and fight for a more just world." Before he continued, he had to clear his throat briefly: "Steve would be incredibly proud of him. And I... I'm proud to call him my friend and ally."
"What motivated you to run for Congress almost six years ago? And to what extent did your wife support you?"
His gaze briefly wandered to one of the Oval Office windows as he recalled the beginnings of his political career. "When the idea of running for Congress came up, it was honestly a far cry from anything I had envisioned for my future. My life had been defined by military service, combat, and what came afterward—trying to find my place in a world I barely recognized." He laced his fingers on the desk. "What ultimately compelled me to do this was a strong sense of duty. I had watched the world become increasingly complex, challenges emerge that transcended military solutions. I saw divisions, misunderstandings, and a growing gap between people and their government. I had sacrificed so much in my life for this country, and I realized that my fight might not be over, only that the battlefield had shifted."
His gaze warmed as he spoke of Ava’s support. "My wife was absolutely crucial in this process. She was not only my biggest supporter, but also an important voice of reason and encouragement. I was skeptical at the beginning, doubting whether politics was the right place for me, especially with my past. Ava helped me overcome those doubts. She reminded me that my experiences, as painful as they were, made me uniquely qualified to understand people's concerns. She encouraged me to embrace my story rather than hide it and to use it as a source of strength. She showed me that it is possible to emerge from the darkness and make a positive impact. Her own journey, her resilience, and her unwavering belief in the good in people have been and continue to be a constant inspiration to me."
“How did you react to your decision to run for president?”
"If running for Congress was a big step, deciding to run for president was a whole other dimension. She knows me better than anyone. She knows what I've been through, and she understands the immense burden that comes with that office—not just politically, but personally. The constant threat, the loss of privacy, the relentless pressure to make decisions that affect the lives of millions. She knew it could challenge my PTSD and reopen old wounds." Bucky smiled with gratitude. "But after we had those conversations, after I explained my motivations and my determination—that I felt it was my duty to lead the country at a critical time—she, with her incredible strength and unwavering optimism, fully supported me."
"A few months ago, there was a scandal—the world learned through extremely private photos that you and Mrs. Starr were actually married. How did this revelation affect your marriage?"
His smile disappeared completely, and his face took on a serious, almost stony expression. He cleared his throat briefly before answering, because this was a subject that deeply affected him. "The exposure of our marriage under these circumstances was... let's be honest: one of the greatest challenges my wife and I have ever experienced in our relationship." He spoke slowly, his voice calmer than before, but with a palpable intensity. "It was a massive breach of trust and an unacceptable invasion of our privacy. This forced exposure, accompanied by images that were never intended for public view, has hurt her deeply. Naturally, this has put our marriage under enormous strain."
He raised his gaze, his eyes meeting the interviewer's directly, full of determination. "But I can also tell you: this crisis has ultimately made us stronger. It has forced us to communicate even more openly and honestly with each other. It has shown us how deep our bond is and how willing we are to fight for each other. Ava has demonstrated incredible resilience during this time. She could have withdrawn, but instead she chose to use her experiences to help others and bring about positive change." He paused briefly to reflect and added: "At the moment, we are very focused on the current tasks and the initiatives Ava has started. She puts her heart and soul into the projects that help traumatized children and young people and advances research into quantum physics, and I support her with everything I have."
Smith nodded and briefly put his notes aside, his gaze becoming more intense. "Mr. Barnes, you are not only the president, but also someone with an extraordinary past. What do you say to critics who view superheroes, including you, with great skepticism and who have repeatedly called for your resignation in the past?"
"I understand this skepticism. Absolutely," he began, his voice calm but firm. "The idea of 'superheroes' is abstract, perhaps even disturbing, to many people. The idea that individuals, even those with extraordinary abilities, could wield so much influence can inspire fear. That's a legitimate concern, and one I take quite seriously." He continued, "I'm not here as the 'Winter Soldier.' I'm here as James Buchanan Barnes, the President-elect of the United States."
Bucky leaned forward slightly, his words emphasized. "My critics have the right to express their opinions, and I listen to them. I know my past is complex and raises questions. But I ask that I be judged by my actions in office. By the laws we pass, the policies we create, and the results we achieve for the American people. My decisions as President are not based on some 'superhero code,' but on the oath I took to the Constitution and the best interests of our citizens. And I will continue to work hard to earn the trust of all those who still doubt by doing my job transparently and for the benefit of all Americans."
Smith nodded, his expression remaining serious. "That's a good keyword. 'Winter Soldier'... Your critics repeatedly express public fears of your relapse. What can you say about that?"
He glanced briefly at his left hand, then raised his gaze and met Smith's. His voice was quiet but firm, full of unspoken depth. "The fear of relapse—of the 'Winter Soldier' resurfacing—that's a fear I see not only in my critics, but also in myself," Bucky began. "It would be dishonest to claim that the ghosts of my past don't exist, or that the fight against the effects of brainwashing and trauma is ever fully over. This is a lifelong process. I've invested years of hard work into my healing. I've received—and continue to receive—the best medical and psychological support possible. I have an very strong support system around me: my wife, who knows me better than anyone and has an incredible understanding of trauma; my team, who reminds me every day what I'm fighting for; and friends who have my back."
Bucky laced his fingers on the desk and looked directly into the camera. "I know that trust has to be earned, and especially in my case. But I'm here, in this office, because I prove every day that I'm no longer the man I once was. I'm here because I have the responsibility and because I believe in healing—my own and our country's. And I'm absolutely confident that I'm up to that responsibility."
Smith nodded slowly, his gaze filled with genuine respect. "Your openness is admirable. Especially regarding your own mental health, which many people don't like to talk about. You said you're still in treatment?"
"Yes, that's true. I'm still in treatment, and that's something I do consciously. It's not a weakness, but a strength, to acknowledge that you need support and actively seek it out." He continued, his voice clear and firm. "Healing from trauma, especially complex trauma like mine, isn't a one-time event that you check off and then it's over. It's an ongoing process. It's about having the tools to cope with stress, developing new perspectives, and ensuring you remain emotionally and psychologically stable, no matter what challenges you face. My therapy sessions are an integral part of my routine. They help me reflect and organize my thoughts."
Bucky concluded on an emphatic note: "I want to encourage anyone struggling with mental health issues to seek help. There's nothing to be ashamed of. It's a sign of courage and self-care. And as president, I will continue to work to ensure that access to mental health care becomes a given for everyone in our country."
“Will you run for re-election?”
"I've only been in office for two years, so I think this question is a bit premature. I came into office with the clear goal of serving our country in a time of great uncertainty and polarization. I wanted to apply the lessons of my life—the need for unity, the importance of caring for the vulnerable, and the resolve to confront threats—to the service of the nation. We have taken important steps so far: We have stabilized the economy, launched critical mental health initiatives for veterans and traumatized youth, and strengthened international cooperation." He looked directly into the camera, his voice firm and convincing. "However, I also recognize that the work is not yet complete. There are still deep divides to be bridged, challenges that require new solutions, and a future that must be actively shaped. We have begun to lay a foundation for a more stable, just, and united future. So yes; I am ready to continue this work. It is a privilege and an honor to serve this country, and I am ready to continue doing so."
Smith nodded and turned the next page of his notes. "Mr. President, so close to the end of the year and at the beginning of your third year in office... as you reflect on the past 24 months, what have been positive and negative in your view?"
Bucky exhaled softly, his gaze becoming thoughtful as he reflected on the past. "The two years in the Oval Office are always a succession of ups and downs, of small victories and major challenges. But I believe it's important to look honestly at both." He began with the positive aspects, his voice growing firmer. "In terms of positive developments, I'm particularly proud of the progress we've made in supporting our veterans. Budgets for mental health care have been significantly increased, and we're already seeing a noticeable improvement in access to therapy. Ava's initiatives are also gaining momentum and showing encouraging results. That's a ray of hope."
He continued: "Economically, we were able to stabilize inflation and create new jobs, particularly in renewable energy and the technology sector. Internationally, we strengthened our alliances and forged a united front against global threats, which is essential given the volatility of the global situation."
A shadow fell over his face as he addressed the negative points. "On the downside, unfortunately, there is still the deep division in our country. Despite our best efforts, we continue to see polarization that hampers dialogue and prevents us from moving forward as one. There have also been setbacks in certain legislative processes in Congress, where partisan interests have sometimes been placed above the good of the nation. This is frustrating and requires constant work to find compromises." He concluded on a conciliatory note. "But even from the negative experiences, we learn. They force us to adapt, rethink our strategies, and work even harder for what we believe in. And that is the essence of this office: constant learning, constant adaptation, and tireless service."
"Mr. President, thank you for your time and the candor with which you answered the questions. Is there anything else you would like to say?"
When he heard the final question, there was a moment of silence as he collected his thoughts. "Thank you for the invitation, Mr. Smith. It was important to me to answer these questions openly and honestly. Transparency is a cornerstone of my presidency, and I believe that understanding one another is the first step toward real progress." He leaned forward slightly, his voice firm yet full of conviction. "If there's one thing I want to leave Americans today with, it's this: We face significant challenges, but we are a country of extraordinary strength. That strength comes not just from our economy or our military, but from our spirit of unity, our ingenuity, and our ability to grow together, even when we disagree. We can learn to work through our past, embrace mistakes as opportunities, and build a better future. This requires patience, empathy, and a willingness to listen and compromise. Together, we can accomplish great things. I believe in that, and it's what I will work toward every day."
Bucky nodded in conclusion, a look of determination and quiet hope in his eyes. "And as we approach the New Year, I want to wish each of you well. May the coming year bring us all new opportunities, greater connection, and deep peace. Let us work together to make it a year marked by hope and true progress. A happy and blessed New Year to all."
Smith nodded appreciatively. "Thank you for your time, Mr. President." He turned to the camera. "That was our review of the year with President James Buchanan Barnes. More tomorrow morning on the Newscast. Stay tuned!"
The red light went out, the bright spotlight dimmed. Bucky exhaled audibly, the tension leaving his shoulders. He loosened his tie and rubbed his face briefly. No sooner had he opened his eyes than a door quietly opened in the background. Ava Starr-Barnes entered, her gaze full of caring. She wore an elegant, understated dress and wore a gentle smile.
“You did great, James,” she said quietly, walking toward him and placing a hand on his arm.
He returned her smile, a tiredness he'd hidden during the interview now revealing itself. "I did my best, Ava. Interviews like this are always... intense."
"I know," she replied sympathetically. "But you reached them all. People were listening." She gently squeezed his arm. "Come on, let's go home. Canterville and Alpine are already waiting to spend the evening with us on the couch."
Bucky stood up, a lighter feeling coming over him as he took her hand. "That sounds like a perfect ending." They left the studio together, while the cleanup began in the background.
The studio lights had gone out, and Ava and Bucky were on their way back to their private residence, but in the living rooms and on the Thunderbolts members' cellphones, things were just getting started. Bucky had handled the interview with a calmness that even he found surprising, but he knew the real follow-up was about to begin. He had barely crossed the threshold and greeted Canterville and Alpine when his phone began to vibrate in his pocket.
John was the first to get in touch, of course via text – short and direct.
John Walker: I saw the interview. Good work. You've got my vote for a second term, Sarge. Who would have thought we'd end up here? Respect.
Bucky had to smile. From their rocky beginnings, where they openly fought each other, to this point where John gave him his voice and expressed his appreciation—the development was remarkable in his eyes. He knew they might never be best friends, but the fact that they had taken this path from conflict to mutual appreciation spoke for itself.
As soon as he read John's message, his phone rang. It was Sam.
"Buck, dude!" Sam's cheerful voice sounded on the other end. "Spoken like a true leader! Especially the bit about veterans and PTSD... that hit home. Your speechwriters did a great job again!"
Bucky laughed. "What did you think?"
“A solid B+,” Sam said cheerfully.
"Is that your standard response to all my texts?" Bucky frowned. "I thought it was spot on, with a certain amount of emotion."
"Get better speechwriters, and you'll get a different grade from me," Sam countered, laughing loudly, but then became serious again. "But getting back to the VA. I have a few suggestions for new approaches and would like to talk to you about them."
"Sounds good," said Bucky. "We'll talk next week, okay?"
The next message was, not surprisingly, from Yelena. Her text was pointed and typical of her:
Yelena: Re-election, James? I guess that means I'm not rid of you yet. And you didn't flinch when they asked about Ava. That's true love. Or good acting. Or both.
Bucky shook his head with a grin. Yelena would never make it easy for him, but he appreciated her strange brand of affection.
Shortly afterwards, a call came from Alexei.
"James! My friend! That was brilliant performance!" Alexei practically yelled into the phone. "And you running again! Excellent! I have so many ideas for new campaign! I'm marketing expert! I can rally many, many votes for you as Red Guardian! People love me!"
Bucky sighed humorously. "Alexei, I think I'll leave the election campaign to the real professionals."
"Final word has not spoken yet," Alexei laughed. "See you!"
Bill Foster also sent a polite and concise message – this time in an informal tone:
Bill Foster: Bucky, I saw the interview. Very compelling. Your presentation on mental health and Ava's research was excellent. An important step for public awareness.
Bucky returned a curt "Thank you, Bill." He knew Bill's appreciation lay on a deeper, intellectual level.
And then, just before Bucky was about to put his phone down, another message came, this time from Bob . Typically short, but with his dry humor:
Bob: I know I've told you this many times, but... thanks for your advocacy on mental health. And oh yeah—you look pretty good on TV.
Bucky laughed out loud. Bob was always good for a surprise.
His team's varied reactions reflected the colorful, chaotic, yet incredibly loyal family the Thunderbolts had become. He may have been the president, but he was also still a valued friend, surrounded by people who understood, challenged, and supported him.