GNN NEWS--Headline Wire

German launches long-shot bid for lieutenant governor

2011-12-27T15:21:00.000-08:00

HARLYNE, Harvannah--A young Conservative pastor has announced his candidacy for lieutenant governor of Harvannah.

Dackery German, who goes by the shorter name "Dack," has announced he will challenge incumbent Nationalist Mia Xhi in the 2012 election.

German is a long-shot to beat the highly-favored Xhi, who easily defeated Conservative incumbent Robert Faller Jr. in the 2008 election. Xhi has rolled in campaign cash, and has high state-wide name recognition, both of which German, a political new-comer, lacks.

But in a video released on his campaign website, www.dackgerman.com, the 37-year-old minister says he wants to "transform the way elected officials interact with their constituents." He criticizes Xhi, saying she is too stand-offish and does not attentively listen to citizen complaints and concerns. "We need a lieutenant governor who is not apart of a political machine or a political agenda, but just genuinely wants to help the people they serve," German says in the video.

German works as a youth minister at Harbourview Church in southeast Harlyne. Before he can compete against Xhi, however, he will have to make it through the primary election, where he will face Clevey Springs Mayor Todd Kren, who announced his candidacy last month. Kren is viewed by many party insiders to be a more viable candidate.

German had been exploring running for office for months, but made his candidacy official yesterday, December 26. He will be temporarily stepping down from his position at Harbourview until the race is over.

The Kren and Xhi campaigns had no comment.

Boden won't decide until January

2011-12-15T03:15:00.000-08:00

COREEGA, Harvannah--Wealthy businessman, attorney, and anti-tax activist Craig Boden will not decide until after the new year if he will run for governor, he told GBC radio today.

Boden, a Conservative, has been toying with joining the crowded field of CNS gubernatorial candidates. However, on Wednesday, he told Harvannah's GBC Local 1390 AM he won't make a decision until January.

Already in the race are state Attorney General Julia Giorchani, Harrisport Mayor George Garesby, H-Tel CEO Rich Tuller and Goldchrist businessman Tom Marelo.

Boden has criticized the current CNS field of candidates for not being conservative enough. The far-right of the Conservative party are attempting to draft him into running, sources say.

The primary election is slated for March 24, 2012.

Fulbright: concessions from state unions needed to save jobs

2011-12-13T23:50:00.000-08:00

NEW SALEM, Armana--State unions must make concessions in order to save government jobs, Armana Gov. Dale Fulbright said Tuesday.

Fulbright and the state legislature are attempting to reach an agreement on how to climb out of a $763 million budget shortfall. Cuts have already been made, but the governor insists concessions from various state employees' unions are necessary to help avoid lay-offs.

"In lean times, we have two choices: either make concessions and share the burden collectively, or decline to make concessions and write out lay-off slips. I would really rather avoid the latter," he said at a Tuesday press conference.

Specifically, Fulbright is calling on the state teachers' union, the Armana Teachers Association (ATA), to make concessions on yearly pay increases and holiday reimbursement. The governor has also asked the Armana State General Employees' Union (ASGEU) to make concessions on holiday pay and retirement benefits.

"It's unfortunate, but we have to close this budget gap, and in order to do that, we need the unions to stop holding out and to sacrifice a little here and there," Fulbright said. "No one wants to make these concessions, but we've tried to make them as painless as we can given the situation, and we see the alternative of laying people off as not a good solution."

ATA President Brenda Siemen jumped on the governor's "sacrifice" comments, telling the Maine City Overseer that "teachers make huge sacrifices every day to supplement their classrooms and educate children."

"I don't think most people would consider cuts in pay and benefits for our hard-working teachers minor sacrifices like the governor does. I think he really stands alone on that," Siemen said.

Brett Stewart, who heads the ASGEU, told the GBC the governor is being dishonest, because cuts could be made in other areas instead of cutting pay and benefits for state workers.

"This is a classic strategy of this Conservative government: blame the unions for our budget problems. The fact is, if the governor would look harder at the budget, he could find other, less painful places to cut money without impacting the pay and retirement plans of state employees," Stewart said.

Grace Solomon, a spokeswoman for the governor's office, told the National Press Federation (NPF) that other parts of the budget are being impacted.

"We are seeing the budget impacted at many different levels. Agencies across the state are seeing their budgets slashed, less services being offered to the citizens, and that's because the governor is trying to make cuts in several different areas so we don't have just one area where we're feeling the pinch," Solomon said.

The budget showdown comes as Armana tries to fix its worst budget deficit in 12 years. The state's budget is better off than other states, but the 2011-2012 fiscal year has seen the first deficit since 2005.

Manning, DeBoor face off over economy

2011-12-04T15:45:00.001-08:00

MAVOCKE--Two leading senators went head-to-head on a Sunday morning news program today, arguing their party is better prepared to address the economic challenges facing the country.

Stephanie Manning, a Nationalist from Lial, told Weekend Glance host Ed McCulvie the NAT party needs a majority in both houses of Congress before it can "lead the country out of an economic drought."

"The only way we can bring this country out of this economic dry spell is to elect an NAT majority in the Senate and the National Assembly," Manning said on the morning political news program.

She was rebutted by Remmington's freshman Conservative senator, Pete DeBoor, a former oil executive.

"Electing an NAT majority in Congress is the last thing this country needs," DeBoor said. "We already have a Nationalist president who doesn't know how to handle the economy. If we give him an NAT-controlled Senate and Assembly, we're just asking for more stimuluses and bail-outs and tax increases."

McCulvie pointed out that the bail-out and stimulus packages of 2009 were passed with Conservative support, including DeBoor's fellow Remmington senator, Curt Blaisek, who helped reach an agreement on the $315 billion stimulus.

"Well I like Curt, and I think he meant well when he voted for the stimulus. He was trying to reach a compromise and trying to reach across party lines to make an agreement that all sides could be happy with. But I disagree that spending money is going to get us out of this economic rut," DeBoor said, of the stimulus and bail-out.

DeBoor ridiculed a proposal from some Nationalists for a second stimulus, telling McCulvie the NAT's only strategy is tax-and-spend.

"That's all they've got. That's their only idea, to just keep taxing the people of this country and spending and hoping that if they spend enough money, they'll finally start earning some back. That is not a real solution."

Manning declined to support the proposal for a second stimulus, but did say the NAT will cut spending, something DeBoor laughed at.

"I'm very serious when I say that [Senate Majority Leader] John Morandi and [Assembly Minority Leader] Allison McGint and Brenton Menuhaeo are going to go through the budget and find areas where we can cut back. But what they will not do is make cuts to services and programs that are vital to working-class Grassadellians in exchange for tax breaks and pay-offs for the super rich. And they will not burden our children and seniors and low-income citizens while cutting deals with corporations and the big oil companies," Manning said, a clear slight at DeBoor.

DeBoor ended the segment by telling McCulvie that jobs, not rhetoric, is what the people want.

"The best thing you can do for the working class people of this country is to get them jobs again. No more broken promises, just a paycheck. That's what the people of this country want."

NAT eyes Ansleigha for pick-ups

2011-11-22T16:12:00.001-08:00

KOEURN, Ansleigha--The Nationalist Party is hoping to win a majority in the Federal Assembly for the first time in more than a decade. And picking up Conservative-held seats in the state of Ansleigha is part of their strategy for reaching that goal.

Key NAT leaders are watching the state closely, and are hoping an anti-Conservative sentiment that's sweeping parts of the country will take deep root in a state that is already well-known for its battleground status.

Ansleigha has more registered Nationalist voters than Conservatives, but the CNS controls the governor's mansion and two of the state's four Senate seats. In addition, the lieutenant governor, secretary of state and attorney general are all Conservatives.

Currently, four of the state's seven assemblymen are Conservatives. But that could change in 2012 if the NAT gets its way.

Their main target is freshman Rep. Michael Collins, who represents the battleground constituency of Hawkinson in the central part of the state. The district includes the northern and western parts of Danaecke, Ansleigha's fourth largest city, and goes west all the way to the Danver River, including Kollandon in the north-central part of the state, as well.

The state NAT is hoping to recruit Kollandon Mayor Jeff Felworth, who ran unsuccessfully against Collins in 2010, for a rematch, only this time, a nation-wide NAT wave could catapult Felworth into first place.

Fellow freshman Rep. McKendra Brown, who represents Gowlinson, which is home to Ansleigha's largest city, Koeurn, is also likely to face a tough race. The district is, overall, NAT-leaning. But the outer suburbs helped Brown defeat Koeurn City Councillor Chris Hayfield by a comfortable margin of 55% to 45% in the 2010 race.

This time around, NAT leaders are hoping to recruit a stronger candidate. And they're hoping Koeurn's liberal bent will outweigh any support the moderate Brown might have in the suburban areas.

Also in the NAT's cross-hairs: Reps. Nick Winsich of Bedland-Brinson in Ansleigha's east, and the outspoken Tara Burlingame, who represents Chadwick and the Donsides in the state's southwestern coal country.

Both won election relatively easily in 2010, but Winsich could face a more difficult opponent in 2012, and Burlingame is likely to face a rematch against Rawlingsworth businessman Roman LaPierre. And neither district is a Conservative lock-hold.

Nationalists will almost for sure keep the seat of Tidewell in the southern part of the state, where Rep. Jeff Symanthe cruised to victory in 2010. The liberal strong-hold of Churchtown makes it extremely difficult for the CNS to compete there. Rep. Chris Gilson, a freshman Nationalist who defeated incumbent Jeff Woonby (C), will also likely keep his seat, though a competitive CNS opponent could spring up.

The one bright spot for Conservatives will be the seat of Ambrose in northwestern Ansleigha, where veteran Assemblyman Pat Alosha is retiring. It's rumored former Rep. Jaime Scousenovy (N) may run for the seat, but Conservatives are banking on businessman Bill Haas making a second bid. Haas, a political newcomer, almost beat Alosha in the 2010 race. A Scousenovy-Haas match-up would be very close, but definitely attainable for the Conservatives.

One other thing in the Conservatives' favor: Governor Dale Lindstrom. While the national mood is souring on the Conservative party, Lindstrom remains popular, and will be on the ballot in 2012 for his first full term in office. His popularity will be a big boost to the party's endangered incumbents.

Candidates argue over abortion, electability in first debate

2011-10-31T00:16:00.000-07:00

HENOTIA, Harvannah--The first Conservative gubernatorial primary debate saw attacks and insults hurled in every direction.

Held at the Emporium Theatre in east Henotia, the evening's first attack came from H-Tel CEO Rich Tuller, who criticized state Attorney General Julia Giorchani's changed stance on abortion, an issue that arose earlier in the week when fellow candidate Tom Marelo brought it up on the campaign trail.

Tuller accused Giorchani, who in the past has identified as pro-choice, of back-pedaling in recent months, and quietly altering her position to be more pro-life, a move that could help her with far-right Conservative voters.

Giorchani responded, saying that her Catholic faith has always taught her to be personally opposed to abortion, but she believes "the government should not be in the business of telling women what to do with their bodies."

Tuller, who also has moderate views on abortion, called Giorchani's changing stance "hypocritical."

"It's clear, Julia, that you've changed your position on abortion because you think it will win you points with the primary voters, and that's deceptive politics," Tuller said.

Giorchani responded, "I've been much more pro-life than you've been, Rich, and I will stack up my record and my positions on the issue of abortion with you any day."

Goldchrist businessman Tom Marelo criticized all of his opponents, saying he is the "only true Conservative."

"I am the only candidate up here on this stage that can honestly say I am pro-life, I am against tax increases, and I am committed to saving the budget," Marelo said.

"These two over here," he said, pointing to Garesby and Giorchani, "want you to believe that you have to choose between them. But there is, in fact, another choice. And that is to vote for me, the only true Conservative in this race."

Garesby, who has led in the polls since he entered the race in September, was largely silent for the first ten minutes of the debate, refusing to involve himself in the abortion debate, likely because his views on abortion are the most ambiguous of the four candidates.

Instead, he attacked his leading opponent, Julia Giorchani, for comments she made about he and CNS Senator Dick Ammons, who endorsed Garesby two weeks ago.

In a TV interview, Giorchani was asked for her reaction to news of the endorsement. She responded by saying that the senator's endorsement of Garesby was a bad thing because of Ammons' "liberal" voting record.

"Dick Ammons is not a real conservative. He's voted with the Nationalists more than 50 percent of the time. So the fact that George Garesby has received his endorsement is not surprising and it's actually disturbing," Giorchani said.

During the debate, Garesby chided Giorchani for "insulting a fellow Conservative."

"Dick Ammons is a good man. He has faithfully served this party and this state. Those kinds of comments are destructive and hurtful," Garesby said to Giorchani, who defended herself, saying "the proof is in the voting record."

The candidates also sparred over electability. Garesby claimed he is the most electable of the four candidates, because he is a bridge-builder able to win over independents and moderate Nationalists.

"I'm someone who builds bridges and finds common ground, and that's why Conservatives and independents and many Nationalists have endorsed my campaign and have endorsed me in the past when I ran for mayor of Harrisport," he said.

Giorchani cited her state-wide name recognition, her gender, and her previous run against incumbent Nationalist Governor Mark Andres.

"I'm the only candidate in this race who has worked in state government. People all across this state know me and trust me, and have trusted me to fight crime and protect Harvannah families as Attorney General.

"The fact that I'm a woman makes me more electable because, as my sister [Secretary of State Jennifer Giorchani] can tell you, there are more female voters in Harvannah than male," she said to laughs. "Being a woman doesn't make me more qualified to be governor, but it does allow me to be more in tune with the needs and issues that women face.

"And finally, I'm the only candidate that has gone up against Mark Andres. I ran against him back in 2007. I know how he works, how he operates, the kind of tactics he pulls in a campaign. I've been tested and I am prepared to go up against him in battle again, if I have the opportunity," Giorchani said.

Tuller touted his experience as a CEO, telling the audience, "the last thing we need is someone who has worked in government."

"I'm the only person who has been a CEO. I've led a company. I continue to lead a company. And if I were a voter, I would not want to choose between someone who is entrenched in state government and someone who is entrenched in city government. I would want an outsider who has a different perspective and a different way of going about doing things."

Marelo, who is a self-made millionaire through real estate projects and investments, agreed with Tuller.

"This is one area where Rich and I agree completely. We both have experience in the private sector. Neither one of us has experience in government, and that's a good thing. The last thing this state needs right now is someone from the government. If we wanted that, we'd just vote for Mark Andres," he said to cheers and applause.

The debate came to a close with the candidates giving their closing statements and shaking hands afterward. The next televised debate between the four Conservative candidates will be held Thursday, November 17, at the Overcliff Events Centre, just outside Goldchrist.

Coach has outburst, calls player 'stupid brown kid'

2011-10-18T21:43:00.000-07:00

SYDMORE, Lial--McKenlan University head basketball coach Paul Dillian shocked players and fans at Monday night's game against Canthorne University, when he made a scene on the court and yelled a racial slur at his own player.

Each teams' players were shaking hands when Dillian, visibly angered at his team's 66-75 loss, began yelling, flailing his arms, and calling player Antoine LaNett expletives and a racist epithet.

Sports Network Grassadellia (SNG), switched camera angles and attempted to delay the audio as Dillian made his on-court tantrum. Dillian, who has headed McKenlan's basketball program since 2007, had to be escorted off the court by the team's assistant coaches and players.

During his rant, he reportedly yelled several expletives at LaNett, and called him a "stupid brown kid."

LaNett, a 21-year-old junior, appeared upset but remained calm during the episode, following a disappointing performance in which he made several turnovers, got into foul trouble, and scored just 6 points. He typically averages close to 20 points per game.

LaNett declined to speak with reporters in the locker room, and the school released a statement denouncing Dillian's comments and behaviour.

"We strongly condemn Coach Dillian's harmful actions and words tonight after the McKenlan-Canthorne game. What Coach Dillian said was wrong, hurtful and unsportsmanlike. His behaviour was highly reprehensible and in direct contradiction to the values and code of conduct for both McKenlan University and the National Association of College Sport (NACS)," the statement read.

It continued, "We especially apologize to Antoine LaNett, who is a dedicated and celebrated player and student at McKenlan. We also apologize to the rest of the team and the fans who were offended by tonight's incident."

The statement also said school administrators will take "swift action" to resolve the incident. A spokesman for the NACS said the association would release a statement tomorrow.

Weather balloon crashes into Lamberth house, injures homeowner

2011-10-06T00:16:00.000-07:00

LAMBERTH, Kalnier--In what officials are calling a "freak accident," a 59-year-old man was injured when he was struck by falling equipment from a weather balloon.

Just after 1 pm Eastern time, dispatch received a call from a neighbor, who heard the victim yelling for help.

Emergency crews responded to the home in north Lamberth, where they discovered a large piece of equipment had improperly detached from the balloon, fell through the roof of the house, and struck the man while he was sitting inside.

The man was taken to hospital with a deep gash to his leg. After receiving sixteen stitches, he was released.

The falling piece of equipment that was a recording box attached to a parachute, which did not deploy. The box weighs about ten pounds.

The National Weather Observancy Bureau (NWOB) is investigating why the balloon did not land properly. Officials say accidents involving falling debris are extremely rare and the victim was just simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Almone Lambastes Gabler For Partisanship, 'Condescension'

2011-09-15T18:50:00.000-07:00

Former governor general criticizes successor for 'cranked up partisanship'

LANSDALE--Former Governor General and current POG Gov. Donna Almone, a Conservative, told GBC newsman Gene Caughley she's disappointed with her successor's performance.

"I think the position has become more partisan than ever, with the politicization of the position leading to a sort of cranked up partisanship that puts party and self-interest first rather than the honor of the job and the good of the people," Almone told Caughley. "And I think that's unfortunate, because the governor general position is one that is supposed to be about problem-solving and reaching across political parties to come up with bipartisan decisions, and I don't see that happening now and I think that's very unfortunate."

Ceona Gov. Christine Gabler, a Nationalist who became governor general when the NAT won a majority of governors' seats in 2010, scoffed at her predecessor's criticisms.

"I don't know where she's getting her information but it's just plain wrong. I have never used this position to advance my own agenda or to help my party above the Grassadellian people's interests," Gabler told the Mavocke Capitol on Tuesday.

Almone specifically addressed Gabler's many fundraisers for NAT candidates, and her recent refusal to disclose information to Conservative governors about the president's economic agenda.

"Clearly this is a governor general who is very focused on her party's goals and on her party's agenda. And every governor is, to an extent. But the position of governor general is really meant to be beyond partisanship. It's meant to be a bridge-building, problem-solving position. And having clear, definite partisan motivations takes away from that part of the job, I think," Almone said.

Nationalists pointed out that Almone made numerous campaign appearances while she was governor general, from 2008-2010.

"Donna Almone's criticism of Christine Gabler is so blatantly hypocritical, it's laughable," spokesman Chris Anderson of the Nationalist Governors' Association (NATGA) told STAR News. "When she was governor general, she campaigned for Conservative candidates right and left. There is no difference between what Christine Gabler's doing now and what Donna Almone did then."

Almone responded by saying Thursday that she simultaneously served as governor general and head of the Conservative Governors' Association (CGA), the latter of which permitted her to appear at fundraising events.

"The difference is that I was heading both positions at the same time. Christine Gabler is not serving as head of NATGA. She asked Lynn DeMont to continue to serve in that position. So she really has no reason to be campaigning for gubernatorial candidates. But really, Gene, it's about more than just campaigning. It's really the tone. The tone that we're seeing from this governor general is so incredibly partisan. There is an attitude of exceptionalism, there is a condescension toward and a lack of respect for Conservative colleagues, and I think that's really a disservice to the governors in this country, to the constituents, and also to the governor general herself," Almone said.

"When I was governor general, I worked very hard to not favor one party or the other. I worked very hard to ensure that the position was largely neutral, and that my own personal and political feelings didn't creep in to what I was doing. I tried to put the country first and the position first rather than Donna Almone first," she said.

A spokeswoman for Christine Gabler's office did not return comment.

Trau: Libya Mission 'Very Important'

2011-09-15T18:14:00.000-07:00

POG senator tells Menuhaeo to 'keep his word'

MAVOCKE--Grassadellia's mission in Libya is "very important," POG Sen. Dick Trau told the conservative National Defense Council (NDC).

"Moammar Gadhafi is losing overwhelmingly, and the rebels are on the verge of taking over a frazzled and uncertain Libya," Trau told the NDC. "The stakes are high in Libya, and Grassadellia must keep its commitment to the Libyan people to help financially and militarily in any way we can."

Trau also met with President Brenton Menuhaeo earlier this week to underscore his position to the president.

"I spoke with Brenton Menuhaeo a few days ago, and I told him how very important the situation is over in Libya, and I asked him to keep his word on this issue, to the Grassadellian people and to the Libyan people."

Trau's comments come on the same day British Prime Minister David Cameron and French President Nicolas Sarkozy both arrived in Libya, the first foreign leaders to visit the war-torn country.

The Menuhaeo administration has already made clear they will support the Libyan rebels in the fight against the ousted dictator Gadhafi.

"We want to reiterate our support for the Libyan people--we stand with you, and we do not foresee, nor do we desire, just like the people of Libya, a future government that involves Mr. Gadhafi or members of his former regime," Deputy Foreign Affairs Secretary Dawnelle Hunter-Garrett said at a press conference yesterday.

Trau said he and other like-minded members of Congress will "keep up the pressure" on the president to maintain Grassadellia's role in the conflict "until the job is done."

"Grassadellians do not make a commitment and then run away from it. And I hope this president and his Nationalist colleagues in the bodies will understand that and support that," Trau said.

Gymbal Glad To Be Back In Assembly, Misses Governorship

2011-09-15T18:01:00.000-07:00

Former Lial governor reflects on political career, says Senate is too 'uppity'

MAVOCKE--Former Lial Gov. Gavin Gymbal is "happy" to be back in the National Assembly, where he served for years. But he also misses his most recent job, the governorship.

"It's great to be back here in Mavocke with my colleagues and to try to address some of the issues that are facing this country at a national level," Gymbal told the Monvaille Star Journal. "But being governor was probably one of the greatest opportunities of my life, and one of the funnest jobs I've ever done. I do miss it, without a doubt."

Gymbal served just one term as governor. He decided not to seek re-election in 2010, but instead ran for his old Assembly seat, Mansill, in southwestern Lial, which he held prior to winning the governorship in 2006. He's the first governor since the 1800's to return to the Assembly after serving in a governorship.

Why did he not run for re-election?

"I really missed working in Mavocke collectively with members from all over the country. I loved being governor, and I do miss it. But I also missed the Assembly, and I hated the nasty partisanship that paralyzes Clothen. It's bad in Mavocke too, of course. But in Clothen, the Nationalist machine is so strong, so much stronger than the Nationalist Party as a whole throughout the country. So I don't miss that part of it," Gymbal said.

He also reflected on his legislative career, and what issues he's focusing on. Prior to 2006, Gymbal championed fiscal and defense issues.

"I'm still going to work on those things, but I'm also going to focus on the environment and particularly on education and civil liberties. When I served as governor, I learned so much about the environment and even more about the education system that is failing in this country. I tried very hard to improve the education system in Lial to help every child succeed and I want to help do that at the national level. And in terms of civil liberties, I think we're seeing a very quick and decisive erosion of them thanks, in large part, to the federal government. And I think someone needs to stand up and take a stand and say, 'enough is enough.'"

When asked why he ran for the National Assembly instead of the more prestigious Senate, Gymbal told the Star Journal that the Senate is too "uppity."

"The Senate, and I mean this with no disrespect to my colleagues in the upper house...but the Senate has a very uppity feel to it. There's a sort of arrogance, I think, to the Senate. And it is the upper house, of course. But the members are elected by the people just like the members of the Assembly. And the atmosphere is just so far from reality in the Senate. I would much rather work in the more down-to-earth Assembly any day. I think members of the Assembly are more in tune with what their constituents want. And I'm a very normal, down-to-earth person. I didn't run for office so I could become an elite and a power-thirsting politician. I ran for office so I could make a difference and be a loud-sounding voice for the common man."

Finally, the Star Journal asked Gymbal about his younger brother Luke, who is a freshman senator from Ansleigha, but recently lost in the Senate reduction lottery as the Senate is reducing the number of members from five per state to four.

"I think Luke is a bright guy and an excellent public servant. He did a great job of representing Ansleigha in the Assembly and then last year he was elected to the Senate in a very close race, but I think he's done a great job in the Senate. And I'm very proud of him. I know he's disappointed he lost in the lottery, and I am too because I think he's a great, effective voice for his state and for the conservative mission. But I'm confident that he will be back, whether it's in 2012 or 2014 or whenever. I think he will be back. I know he's not done serving his state, though in what capacity, I'm not sure."

Luke Gymbal is rumored to be considering a 2012 run against fellow Ansleigha Senator Jan Vanderhoogen, though his office has not confirmed if he will run.

Grassadellians Mark 9/11 Anniversary

2011-09-11T15:36:00.000-07:00

President, dignitaries attend somber ceremony

MAVOCKE--Grassadellians came together Sunday to mark the tenth anniversary of the US September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in New York, Washington D.C., and Pennsylvania.

About people 13,000 turned out at Mavocke's Capitol Square for a remembrance ceremony at the foot of the Fountain of Enduring Hope.

During his speech, which headlined the event, President Brenton Menuhaeo recalled "that day of horror in September 2001," and noted that 38 Grassadellians lost their lives in the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

"The world watched in horror and disbelief at what was unfolding in New York, and we here at home in Grassadellia were just beginning to count the damaging toll our own country would face, as well as that which our American friends would face," Menuhaeo said.

"But the September 11 terrorist attacks did not leave us living in fear, but rather led us to live in victory. The attacks did not dampen our desire for freedom and liberty, but only strengthened it. The gruesome killings of thousands of innocent people shattered our innocence, but did not destroy our spirits. Today, we grieve the loss of those we loved and those from other countries we did not know. But we stand victorious, we stand stronger than we were. We stand more resolved than ever before to see a free and open and accepting society emerge amid the best efforts of those who do not share our view of personal liberty and human dignity."

Former President Dan Byelle recalled the day of the attacks. Less than a year into his presidency, he was in Carova speaking at an education seminar when news of the attack broke.

"My heart sank and my mind tried to grasp the magnitude of what had happened," Byelle said. "My focus then shifted to protecting this country, making sure that the awful, cowardly acts of violence that were happening in the states would not happen here in Grassadellia."

"This was a tragedy that would come to define the United States of America forever, and one that would shake our security in this country and around the world," Byelle continued. "But, as we know, hope conquers fear. Love triumphs over hatred. Peace defeats bloodshed. Liberty overcomes oppression."

First Lady Carolla Menuhaeo led a children's choir and a candle lighting ceremony. Foreign Affairs Secretary Jim McCaren acknowledged the "ugliness of 9/11," but spoke of the resolve of the American people and the special friendship between Grassadellia and the US.

"I can say without uncertainty that the special relationship between our two great countries accounted for an expedition of the healing process and for an outpouring of support from Grassadellia to Americans and from Americans to Grassadellians," McCaren said. "Our two countries were brutally and ruthlessly attacked on that day, but we stood united and we stood determined to defeat the enemy that opposes freedom and exalts violence, and we continue to stand together."

Other speakers at the event included the American Ambassador to Grassadellia, Dave Oken, actor and peace activist Scott Kenard and former GNN newsman Fred Johnson, who holds dual US and Grassadellian citizenship. Singers Bali Durman and Lad Beckerstan sang, as well as a reading from poet Lucinda James Vernon. The band Angels of Dawn also performed.

Similar events were held in Grassadellia City, Lansdale, Treeton, Lanakis, Monvaille, and other cities across the nation.

Grassadellia's Ambassador to the US, James Alexander, was in New York for the memorial service at Ground Zero, where he unveiled a statue in honor of the Grassadellian victims.

A memorial to the Grassadellian victims opened back in 2007 in Mavocke, just south of where the memorial service was held. Mourners made a procession to the memorial, about three blocks away.

Rodgers Outraises Conservative Opponent 4-1

2011-09-09T14:56:00.000-07:00

NAT gubernatorial candidate has overwhelming cash advantage

BLOMENBURY, Roddenclanshire--Welchford Mayor and NAT gubernatorial candidate Mona Rodgers is well-set for campaign cash in the state's special gubernatorial election.

Rodgers, who is highly favored to win the special election, reported raising $1.7 million from May to September. Her Conservative opponent, state Sen. Jim Curry of Brimedaw, raised just $342,000 in that same period.

Rodgers' campaign has spent about $820,000 since she entered the race back in January. Curry's campaign has spent about $480,000, and has about $167,000 cash-on-hand.

The Conservative Governors' Association (CGA) has put little effort into the special election, which the Nationalists are almost certain to win. Curry has acknowledged an "uphill battle" to victory, but has nevertheless kept up a steady fundraising campaign.

Rodgers has also hit the fundraising circuit, holding events with prominent Nationalists in the state. NAT governors from various states are also expected to campaign for her later on in the campaign.

British Couple Arrested For Pedaling Cocaine

2011-08-31T00:47:00.000-07:00

GANLAN BEACH, Damoign--A British couple is under arrest after police say they were pedaling cocaine while on vacation.

Scott Keebler, 37, and his wife Ashley, 36, of Hampshire, England, were arrested in the coastal town of Ganlan Beach, about forty miles up the coast from Mattinow. Local police say both tried to sell cocaine to undercover officers.

The couple, who were reportedly vacationing in Ganlan Beach, had about five pounds of cocaine in their condo, worth about $230,000, according to the Drugs and Narcotics Control Agency (DNCA), which jointly conducted the sting with local officials.

The couple is now in police custody until tomorrow, when they will face a federal magistrate in Mattinow.

Giorchani Announces Gubernatorial Bid

2011-08-30T16:25:00.000-07:00

Harvannah Attorney General was expected to run

HENOTIA, Harvannah--Attorney General Julia Giorchani, a Conservative, has announced she is running for governor in 2012.

Giorchani made the announcement before a packed house Tuesday night at the Collandere Opera House in Henotia, her hometown.

That makes Giorchani the first official Conservative candidate to jump into the race against Nationalist incumbent, Gov. Mark Andres. Giorchani previously ran against Andres in the 2007 special election, however, she came in third place behind Andres and Democratic-Reformist candidate Bernie Olsen.

She was widely expected to run again in 2008, when Andres ran for his first full term. But instead, she ran for state Attorney General, and Harlyne businessman Bill Barnes became the CNS nominee for governor, losing to Andres.

During her speech Tuesday night, Giorchani criticized Andres for increasing the state's debt burden, and presiding over a poor economy and higher unemployment. She called his governing style "arrogant," and accused him of inappropriately inserting himself in the judicial process.

"I have never seen a governor so arrogant and so self-serving...whether it's the WHMC [Western Harvannah Metropolitan Council] or term lengths and limits or the debt...Mark Andres has consistently ignored the will of the people and done what he wants instead of what the people want," Giorchani said.

Because the Attorney General is elected separately from the governor, Giorchani and Andres have served together in Clevey Springs since 2008, but have clashed repeatedly during that time. In particular, they've sparred over the role and constitutionality of the WHMC, and over term-limits for the state's executive positions.

In March 2010, Giorchani filed a lawsuit in state Superior Court, seeking to disband the WHMC because, she claimed, it unfairly collected and distributed tax dollars and imposed area-specific laws on urban and rural communities alike. Andres was not named in the lawsuit, but he publicly supported the council, and opposed Giorchani's lawsuit. In August 2010, the court agreed the WHMC's authority was too far-reaching, and ordered that it be re-created from scratch, essentially a partial victory for Giorchani, who sought to eradicate the council altogether.

Then, in March of this year, after an unsuccessful attempt in 2010, Harvannah voters passed the controversial Measure 67 during a special election. The measure called for reducing the governor's term from four years to just two, a move that Giorchani and residents of Harvannah's smaller islands strongly supported. Andres opposed the measure, arguing that reducing the governor's term to two years would not provide a governor with enough time to enact certain policies or to pursue legislative agendas. He also argued that the change would result in politicians constantly being in campaign mode and citizens growing weary of the political process.

Andres joined a lawsuit seeking to invalidate Measure 67. The case is now before the state Supreme Court, which has yet to make a ruling. The court did, however, issue a stay on Measure 67, meaning whoever wins the 2012 election will serve a four year term, and terms will indefinitely be four years until the case is decided.

Giorchani had plenty of complaints and lots of criticism at her announcement ceremony, but she revealed little of her own policy ideas.

During her speech, which lasted about 15 minutes, she called for lower taxes, reducing the state debt by cutting spending, allocating further funding for transportation projects, increasing teacher accountability in public schools, and creating a friendlier business climate in the state. She also pledged to strengthen the state government's relationship with the Air Force, a relationship that became somewhat strained when the Andres Administration opposed a proposed expansion of Foxworth Air Force Base in Saoca County.

"It's time that we started appreciating the tax payers of this state, and we honor the men and women in uniform who have made this state safe and have served so admirably," Giorchani said. "This governor [Andres] has disrespected the tax payers. He has disrespected the common citizen, and he has disrespected Air Force leaders and members of the military. We need a governor who will respect everyone, and who will put this state first and this country first."

Giorchani made little mention of her potential CNS opponents, who will likely include H-Tel CEO Rich Tuller, Harlyne businessman Tom Marelo, and Harrisport Mayor George Garesby, the latter of which, should he enter the race, will likely be the front-runner.

Giorchani was joined Tuesday night by her husband, Nick Sampson, and her sister, Secretary of State Jennifer Giorchani.

The Andres campaign did not return comment.

Davidson Jumps Into Veroche Governor's Race

2011-08-26T00:16:00.000-07:00

Lieutenant governor to challenge boss for top job

LANAKIS--Veroche Lieutenant Governor Bradley Davidson (CNS) formally entered the race for governor today, in a move that will likely clear the Conservative Party field.

Davidson had long been rumored to be planning a campaign to challenge his boss, incumbent Gov. Linda Van Auhn (NAT). But today, the former Secretary of National Security made it official: he will run for governor in 2012.

"Today I am pleased to announce that I am officially running for governor of the great state of Veroche," Davidson said at an outdoor rally on Chequers Hill, on the city's northwest side. "It is with great honor that I will seek to restore the economy in this state and get people working again," he said to cheers.

During his speech, Davidson lambasted Van Auhn for a $9.3 billion budget shortfall, tax hikes, and a 10.2% unemployment rate.

"Veroche is hemorrhaging, and Linda Van Auhn has done little to help stop the bleeding," he said. "All across this state, people are hurting, and while they're hurting, Linda Van Auhn is too busy playing partisan politics and scoring political points to address the real issues facing our state."

The lieutenant governor talked about other issues as well, including health care, education, transportation, the environment, agriculture, and government accountability.

Davidson joins just one other Conservative candidate, Pendleton Mayor Ric Renner.

Other Conservatives have been considering bids, including Rep. Don Christaman of Touleville, and former professional football player Steve Serpino.

Over the past few weeks, former candidates Todd Argouth and Steve Leona, as well as former Sen. Evelynn Blankenship, ruled out running for the office.

Van Auhn is seeking a second full term in 2012, a presidential election year that will likely see huge turnout for President Brenton Menuhaeo's re-election campaign. And Van Auhn soundly defeated Argouth in a special election in 2007, and beat Leona by an even wider margin in 2008.

Van Auhn's approval rating has slipped dramatically, however. A Liberty poll conducted in early August showed her approval rating at 39%, and her disapproval rating at 51%.

Davidson's numbers were better, with a 43% approval rating and a 31% disapproval rating. But a full 26% either were unsure or did not know enough information about him to form an opinion.

Davidson was a former Secretary of National Security under President Dan Byelle. He resigned in 2007, when he was elected lieutenant governor. He currently serves as the chair of the Lieutenant Governors' Board.

Garson Pleads Guilty To Drunk-Driving Charge

2011-08-25T16:08:00.000-07:00

Veroche MP must pay restitution, attend alcohol classes

MAVOCKE--A Mavocke municipal judge did not let Assemblyman Nick Garson (N-Veroche) off the hook Thursday.

Garson, 31, pleaded guilty to one count of drunk-driving, and must pay almost $14,000 in restitution to the owner of a building he crashed his car into. The Veroche assemblyman will also pay a $1,000 fine as part of his probation.

Mavocke Municipal Judge Aleda Thornton also ordered Garson to attend alcohol safety courses twice a month for the next six months, at his own expense. She also suspended his driver's license for 30 days.

"As a public servant, you have the responsibility, both legally and morally, to set a high standard for citizen behavior and conduct," Thornton told Garson, who nodded in agreement at the judge's comments.

The incident occurred more than two months ago, in the early morning hours of June 9. Mavocke Metropolitan Police responded to the scene of a car-versus-building accident in the midtown Lembarton district, just a few miles east of the capitol area.

When police arrived, Garson appeared to be intoxicated. Subsequent blood tests later revealed his blood alcohol level to be 0.10, two-tenths above the legal limit.

Before crashing his vehicle into the building, Garson swiped an oncoming vehicle, causing substantial damage to that car. The driver of the car was not injured, however, and Garson's auto insurance will cover the damage to the other vehicle.

Outside the courthouse in downtown Mavocke, Garson, accompanied by his lawyers and girlfriend Kate Billing, told reporters he accepted "full responsibility."

"I take full responsibility for my actions, and I've tried to state from the beginning of this ordeal just how sorry I am for my actions, and how embarrassed and humbled I am by what I've done," he said. "This type of behavior was out of character for me, and it was a mistake.

"The people of Lanakis-Southwick expect more of their representative, and I'm truly sorry for my failure to live up to that expectation," Garson said, referring to the constituents of his electorate.

So far, Mr. Garson has resisted calls for his resignation, and has indicated he plans to seek re-election in 2012, though he has not publicly committed to running again.

Alosha To Retire

2011-08-25T15:22:00.000-07:00

Veteran assemblyman to step down in 2012

GILLIAM, Ansleigha--Rep. Pat Alosha, a veteran Nationalist assemblyman who served from Lial and later from Ansleigha, has announced his retirement.

Alosha, 71, entered the National Assembly in 1978, and will retire at the end of his 17th term.

"I've decided now is the proper time for me to turn the page to the next chapter in my life," said Alosha, who currently represents the electorate of Ambrose in northern Ansleigha.

Alosha's exit leaves a vacancy for the NAT in a battleground district, and presents a rare opportunity for Conservatives to gain a seat in a state that strongly leans blue.

Conservative candidate Bill Haas ran almost even with Alosha in the 2010 election, with Alosha narrowly winning with 51% to Haas' 49%.

Haas already disclosed his intention to run again before Alosha's retirement announcement.

Mattosh Mulls Rematch With Kerenbury

2011-08-18T16:28:00.000-07:00

Harvannah Nationalist may challenge old foe

HARLYNE, Harvannah--Former Nationalist Assemblywoman Dawn Mattosh, who represented the electorate of Ducheffrey in southwestern Harvannah from 2007-2010, is considering running for her old seat in 2012.

Mattosh lost in the 2010 election to Conservative state legislator Frank Kerenbury. Now sources close to the former MP say she is considering a rematch against the moderate CNS incumbent.

Ducheffrey is strong NAT territory, encompassing all of Scandinaugh County--the state's most populous--and parts of Herell and Saoca Counties. The electorate also includes Kilgore Island to the southwest.

But Kerenbury has stuck to a moderate voting record in the Assembly. He opposed a proposed second bail-out for failing corporations, but supported President Menuhaeo's Libya mission. He's also stood with the Menuhaeo Administration on environmental issues, voting to protect wilderness area on Harvannah's main island, despite the Conservative Party's opposition.

But 2012 is a presidential election year, and eager Nationalists--including Mattosh--are hoping to make Kerenbury a one-term assemblyman.

No other Nationalists have officially entered the race against Kerenbury, although Ray Augustino, president of the Western Harvannah Metropolitan Council (WHMC), is said to be considering a run.

6 Arrested In GC Terror Plot

2011-08-12T15:35:00.000-07:00

Suspects planned attacks on trains, buses

GRASSADELLIA CITY--Crown Police have arrested six men who allegedly were plotting a terrorist attack on Grassadellian soil.

The six suspects--all young, foreign-born men--were arrested without incident yesterday in scattered sections of Grassadellia City's west.

Two of the men, who lived together in an apartment on Hyde Hill, were arrested at approximately 10:00 am EGST. At the same time, another man was arrested at his home in North Wallen in the city's northwest, another at his home in east Kokomokalo, another at an upscale home in the affluent suburb of Rickby.

The sixth suspect, who police say lives two hours south in Fairside, was arrested a few hours later after getting off a train in Staley.

Authorities are releasing few details, but at a press conference, Crown Police Commissioner Walter Kinbrew said police had been monitoring the suspects for several months, and based on evidence collected, the men were allegedly planning bomb attacks on trains and public buses in the Grassadellia City area.

"What these men were planning was a coordinated attack on public trains and transport buses," Kinbrew said. "Had they carried out this attack, it would've killed hundreds, if not thousands of people."

Police released little about the suspects' backgrounds, only saying that they were all born outside Grassadellia. At least two are naturalized Grassadellian citizens, Kinbrew confirmed. One suspect is a 17-year-old. A judge will determine if his case will be heard in juvenile court.

As of now, it's unclear if the suspects are affiliated with a terror organization, such as Al Qaeda.

Upon hearing news of the arrests, President Brenton Menuhaeo held a press conference at Collester, saying he was "alarmed" at the terror plot.

"What we learned today is very frightening and sobering. My thanks goes out to the law enforcement members who helped prevent this attack from taking place," Menuhaeo said.

Grassadellia City's mayor, Kellan Kastol, told reporters he was "overwhelmed" by the arrests.

"This kind of thing is something you expect, as the mayor of a large international city. But it's always difficult to swallow, that an attack of that magnitude is being planned right here in our very yard. I'm just very overwhelmed by it all," Kastol told STAR News.

Damoign Governor Sid Hoffa, who preceded Kastol in the mayor's office, also released a statement, saying he was "relieved" the planned attack never took place.

"Today's events are another reminder of how vigilant we must be as citizens, as a government, as a country. We cannot live in fear, but we must live in reality, and that is the fact that we live in a dangerous world where people want to harm us and our democratic way of life," the statement read.

Both Kastol and Hoffa applauded law enforcement for their work.

"This is an example of exemplary law enforcement work right here," Kastol said at a press conference with Grassadellia City Metropolitan Police Chief Barry Whitemore.

The men are being held at a federal detention centre in Grassadellia City. The 17-year-old suspect is being held at a juvenile facility. All suspects will face magistrates on Monday.

King Book Deal Coming Soon

2011-06-29T15:42:00.000-07:00

Former Monomi gov to write book

TREETON--Ousted Gov. Scott King Jr. (NAT) will soon release a book about his political career and subsequent fall from grace, according to sources close to him.

King was recalled by Monomi voters in 2010, after being the subject of state and federal criminal investigations. He was replaced by Lt. Gov. Erica Kinsley, who, despite being elected with King on the same ticket, called on him to resign and openly stated her disapproval when he chose to stick it out until he was recalled.

Now King, who is appealing to the state supreme court over what he calls a "fraudulent recall election," is writing a book about the recall ordeal. He'll also address his now-strained relationship with Kinsley, who was once his close adviser and political partner.

A source close to King, who did not want to be named as to not pre-empt the announcement, told the Treeton Sun that King has been offered a generous book deal from Dollenwood Publishers. A spokesperson for the company would not comment on the deal, but did acknowledge the publishing group has "been in talks" with King.

Kinsley is also rumored to be looking into a book deal, though her office has declined to comment as well.

Burcheau Moving Toward Gubernatorial Bid

2011-06-26T23:27:00.000-07:00

NWP Senate Majority Leader likely strongest candidate to challenge incumbent CNS gov

DAYLE-LOCKE, New Portsmouth--Senate Majority Leader Ronald Burcheau (N-Rock Glen) appears to be moving toward a bid for governor in 2012.

Burcheau will announce this week he is forming an exploratory committee, friends close to him say, though they didn't want to be named as to not pre-empt the announcement. The 67-year-old senator, who has served as majority leader since 2007, has also reportedly told friends and aides he is planning on running.

That means he will likely have a clear path to the NAT nomination, as the only other announced candidate so far is Valait Beach businessman Kyle Reeser, who has less name recognition and support in the party's establishment, and would likely garner less financial support than Burcheau.

Whoever wins the NAT nomination will go on to challenge incumbent Conservative Gov. Jacqueline Bosseau, who has held the office since her narrow upset of former Gov. Dale Rochey (NAT) in 2008.

Rochey, who won the governorship in a special election in 2007 and served for just a year, ran again for a third time in 2010, but lost in the NAT primary to state Sen. Michael Barrett of Baylor. Barrett went on to lose the general election to Bosseau by a margin of 45% to 55%.

Neither Rochey nor Barrett have indicated if they plan on running again, however sources close to Rochey say the former governor is done with politics. Barrett appears focused on getting re-elected to the state Senate.

The only other formidable NAT candidates that could give Bosseau a real challenge are Rep. Charles Wornkin, who represents Dayle-Locke and the Yorkton Islands, Rep. Jean Larae Dowd, who represents the electorate of Bethany, and Secretary of State Richard Crux.

Wornkin is the former mayor of Dayle-Locke, and has never sought state-wide office. Dowd ran unsuccessfully for the Senate against incumbent Sen. Nadine Pietrasaelis in 2010. She continues to represent her Yanceyburg-based district in the National Assembly.

Crux has, in the past, expressed interest in the governorship, though NAT party leaders believe he will run for Attorney General when Nationalist Welma Sidley steps down from the AG post in 2012.

Wornkin has long been rumored to be considering a run for governor, but a spokesperson said the freshman representative is focused on "serving the people of Dayle-Locke and Yorkton Islands as best as he can" in the Assembly. Dowd is reportedly uninterested in the governorship.

New Portsmouth's two NAT senators could also make a run for governor and would certainly give Bosseau a tough challenge. But Sen. Chris McConnitch and Sen. Clinton Ashby appear to be comfortable in the Federal Senate, where terms are six years long, and neither one has indicated they're interested in the governorship, where each term is only for two years.

Still, the NAT is hoping Burcheau, who is popular in liberal circles, will be the candidate that knocks Bosseau off. The fact that 2012 is also a presidential election year will also give the NAT momentum in a state that traditionally leans toward their party.

Bosseau has yet to announce her run for re-election, though she has been raising money, indicating she will seek a third term.

Huuvanna Out At End Of The Month

2011-06-22T01:01:00.000-07:00

Federal AG will resign at end of June

MAVOCKE--The Mavocke Capitol newspaper is reporting that Federal Attorney General (AG) John Huuvanna will resign at the end of June.

The paper cited an unnamed but "reliable" source within the Department of Justice Upholsion (DJU) that says Huuvanna is tired of his job and ready for retirement from politics. He will likely resign by the end of June, the source said.

"He hates it. He hates all of the political wrangling and all of the pressure from various people," the anonymous source, who is close to Huuvanna, told the Capitol. "John is just a doer, not a PR person."

Collester Press Secretary Adam Kolbert declined to address Huuvanna's future. A call to Huuvanna's office also went unreturned.

Early Morning Earthquake Rattles Ceona

2011-06-22T00:28:00.000-07:00

Earthquake centered in south-central part of the state

ROSEMONT, Ceona--Residents across southern Ceona were awakened this morning by a moderate earthquake.

The Geological and Terrain Survey of Grassadellia (GTSG) is reporting the earthquake, which lasted for approximately 15 seconds, was a 4.9 magnitude on the Richter scale. It struck at 4:16 am eastern time.

Data recorded at the GTSG's Lanakis office shows the quake was about 30 miles deep. No major damage has been reported, but people reported feeling the quake as far away as Madagen, Fairfield, Remmington City and West Lake, Damoign, according to the GTSG.

Dr. Sue Lehrer, a geologist based out of GTSG headquarters in Mavocke, called the quake "pretty significant," but added that "there is no need for an unusual level of concern."

Duschowitz On Luncheon Blitz

2011-06-18T03:49:00.000-07:00

Former Biereland governor to lunch with peers

MAVOCKE--Former Biereland Gov. Jenny Duschowitz (CNS), who lost re-election in 2010 to Nationalist San Bartholomew, is going on a luncheon blitz over the next few weeks.

Duschowitz is reportedly having lunch next Tuesday with 2010 Wellington Conservative gubernatorial candidate Craig Thoyer, who also was unsuccessful in his bid to unseat incumbent Gov. Pierre Carten (NAT). According to Duschowitz's office, she and Thoyer agreed during the 2010 campaign to lunch together after the election, but never followed through. Spokeswoman Mary Collins said the she is "making good on that promise."

Duschowitz and Thoyer are expected meet for lunch in Starksmin, and will discuss the election and stories from the campaign, though the lunch will be more personal and less political in nature, Collins said. Duschowitz and her husband Todd will then spend the evening with Thoyer and his wife, Theresa.

Then, the following week, on Friday, July 1, Duschowitz will travel to Mavocke to have lunch with her former boss and predecessor, Gov. Peter Kosevich (CNS). According to Collins, the two former governors talked over the phone following the 2010 election and agreed to meet to discuss the election, life outside of office, and their future plans. Duschowitz's husband will also join her on that trip, and the couple will reportedly stay the weekend with Kosevich and his wife Lydell, at their Mavocke-area home.

And finally, on July 14, Duschowitz will fly to Lansdale to meet with POG Gov. Donna Almone, who headed up the Conservative Governors' Association (CGA) during the 2010 campaign. Almone was instrumental in raising money for and distributing money to Duschowitz's campaign, and the lunch is meant as a gesture of thanks for her help.

Collins refused to confirm if Duschowitz would accept a lunch invitation from conservative Christian psychologist and radio host Dr. Tony Booth. A spokeswoman with Booth's Lial-based ministry, Truth To The Nations, told the NPF that both Booth and Duschowitz were interested in meeting, but a date had not been finalized.

Duschowitz's busy travel schedule has led many to believe she is considering a political comeback. However, the former governor confirmed to the GBC last week she will not challenge NAT incumbent Sen. Steve Kolotano in the 2012 election.

Alton Makes It Official

2011-06-18T02:31:00.000-07:00

Remmington City mayor files to run for governor

REMMINGTON CITY, Remmington--In the city that he has governed for the past three years, Remmington City Mayor Graham Alton (NAT) officially kicked off his campaign for governor.

The big announcement was made at High Sky Park in the city's southeast. About 400 people gathered at the park's outdoor amphitheater to hear Alton's announcement, which was widely expected by political analysts.

Alton told the crowd his top priorities are the environment, economy and education.

"Our current governor wants to ignore climate change, keep giving tax breaks and benefits to greedy corporations while ignoring normal, every-day Remmingtonians, and he wants to maintain the status quo with our education system in this state. That's very, very wrong, friends," Alton said.

Alton was born and raised in Damoign to a sea merchant father and a waitress mother. After serving in the Air Force and graduating from Kendalla College in Harapoquen, Damoign, he moved to Remmington City in 1983. He worked as a journalist for the Remmington Star newspaper until opening his own air conditioning business in 1992.

Becoming successful in the business world, Alton began to grow his business empire and got involved in the dot-com boom. In 2002, after overseeing a diverse business portfolio, Alton started working in the non-profit sector, working first as the state head of the federal government's housing assistance program. In 2004, he resigned that position to head the Remmington City Fair Housing Organization, which he oversaw until his 2008 election as mayor, the first Nationalist to win since 1980.

During his speech Friday, the journalist, businessman, and non-profit head-turned-politician gave few specifics, but said he wants to transition Remmington's economy into a green economy.

"I believe agriculture and green technology can coexist and work together nicely. Our economy doesn't have to just be dependent on agriculture and the mining and timber industries," he said.

On the economy, he wants to end corporate tax breaks and bring tax breaks to Remmington families. More specifically, he proposed a hike in the state's gas tax in exchange for broader tax exemptions and tax credits for families of four or more.

"The economy in this state is hurting, and part of that is because the current administration is rejecting a green economy. And the other part is that they're giving all the help to the corporations and not the people. In an Alton administration, the big oil companies will be at the back of the line," he said to a cheering crowd.

On education, Alton told the crowd he wants to "reinvigorate" the state's school system by raising teachers' salaries and increasing spending for education, while also lowering class sizes. Calling the current education system "dismal," he told supporters he wants to change the way education is done in the state.

"If you want to be a top-notch education state, then you have to have top-notch teachers and technology. And right now, Remmington has the lowest-paid teachers in the country. That just has to change," he said.

The mayor did not address most other issues. About the state's ailing budget, he told the media after his speech he would fix the budget gap through a combination of tax increases and spending cuts, though he declined to give specifics. He also told reporters he would convene a special transportation committee to evaluate the state's transportation system and propose solutions.

If Alton wins the Nationalist Party nomination, he will go on to challenge Conservative incumbent Gov. Jen Stevens-Taylor, who was first elected in 2008.

It's unclear who Alton's running mate will be, though Assemblyman Bryce Goodall, who represents the constituency of Devry, could run make another run for lieutenant governor after his unsuccessful run in 2008 with former Senator James Owen-Wilson. Former Senate candidates Ashleigh Lanford, James Kensen, and Derrick Cotter have also been rumored to be interested.

Nationalists Tout Frizzeia For Assembly

2011-06-16T01:29:00.000-07:00

NAT seeks to take back old territory

KATHERINE, Kalnier--Top NAT leaders are touting a new recruit for the Federal Assembly: State Assemblywoman Nita Frizzeia (N-Kemsport).

Partly leaders expect Frizzeia to run for the seat of Lamberth East, currently held by Conservative Carolyn Coventry. The electorate is traditional NAT territory, but Coventry narrowly stole the seat from former MA, Evan Kratzer (NAT).

In addition to serving in the State Assembly, Frizzeia is a small business owner and lives in Kemsport, on the central Kalnier coast. The electorate encompasses most of eastern Lamberth, with a sliver of land that extends to the coast.

"She is the perfect candidate with the perfect story with the perfect ideals for this electorate," State NAT Party Chairman Kyle Berger told the Lamberth Regent newspaper. Deputy Chairwoman Paula Zydelle also touted Frizzeia, saying she "has the guts to tough out a long campaign."

MA Alex Korchimney of Veroche, who co-chairs the Nationalist Assembly Campaign Committee (NACC), called Frizzeia a "good way to right a wrong."

"This seat should never have left NAT hands, but it did. [Election] 2012 is our opportunity to get this seat back," Korchimney said over the phone, from his Mavocke office.

Coventry's office declined to comment when contacted by the Regent.

Kratzer told Kalnier Civic Radio he has not ruled out running for his old seat, though the party's early endorsement of Frizzeia indicates he will likely not run.

Mickelson Expresses Interest In Senate Run

2011-06-16T00:48:00.000-07:00

State senator eyes Federal Senate

APPENBAUM, Kalnier--State Sen. Steve Mickelson is considering a run for the Federal Senate, according to the Appenbaum Clatchfield News.

Mickelson, a Conservative from Revan in central Kalnier, told the Clatchfield News he has "not shut door" on a Senate run in 2012 against incumbent Paul LeBouse (NAT).

A wealthy businessman and tax attorney, Mickelson could self-fund a strong campaign against the passionate but polarizing LeBouse.

If Mickelson runs, it could also set up a difficult primary election for the Conservative Party, as several Members of Assembly (MA's) are considering a run. They include:

Mark Radowski, who represents Appenbaum and the Flatfields
Marie Dehignen, who represents Lamberth West
Carolyn Coventry, who represents Lamberth East
Kimberley Duncan-Roit, who represents Kirkenelly and Parma

Former 2008 Senate candidate Tony Ritonio, a small restaurant owner from Lamberth's northwest side who lost to Eli Dundree (NAT), could also throw his hat into the ring. Former Gov. Joe Gramma, who lost re-election in 2010, could also declare candidacy, something that would likely throw the race into a frenzy.

DNS, Royal Guard Investigate Bomb At Border Crossing

2011-06-15T00:00:00.000-07:00

Multiple agencies investigating explosive device

VICKSBURG, Damoign--The Department of National Security (DNS) and the Royal Guard of the Realm (RG) are investigating a backpack bomb found at a border crossing this morning.

The homemade device was found inside a backpack at the Lukisse-Taben border crossing in southeastern Damoign at the Grassadellia-Bedroque border. Officials with the Department of Entry and Departure (DED) reported the suspicious device. A bomb squad from Vicksburg was called in to investigate. The bomb was extricated and detonated at a secure location away from the busy border crossing, where about 1,700 vehicles pass through every day.

The crossing was closed for about an hour and a half.

RG officials have reviewed security camera footage and are looking for a black Chevrolet SUV that they believe the backpack originated from. Anyone with information is asked to call the Vicksburg RG office at (352)-280-8000.

Lindstrom Welcomes Menuhaeo To Ansleigha

2011-06-14T23:31:00.000-07:00

President's first official visit to Ansleigha

KOEURN, Ansleigha--President Brenton Menuhaeo is in Koeurn, Ansleigha tonight, on his first official visit to the newly-formed state.

Menuhaeo accepted Ansleigha Gov. Dale Lindstrom's offer to visit, and the two shared an evening together at a fundraiser for autism research in downtown Koeurn earlier tonight.

The President is staying at the governor's mansion in Rawlingsworth. Tomorrow, he'll tour a coal mine in Ebendale with Sen. Jon Ralston (CNS), and he'll then fly out to Califor, Wellington on Thursday, for an event with Gov. Pierre Carten.

Garson's Girlfriend Bailed Him Out Of Jail

2011-06-09T16:38:00.000-07:00

Girlfriend was mysterious person who bailed drunk MP out of jail

MAVOCKE--Assemblyman Nick Garson (N-Veroche) was bailed out of jail early this morning by his girlfriend, according to the Mavocke Capitol newspaper, which first broke the story.

Garson was taken into custody by Metropolitan Police for drunken-driving, after crashing his car into another vehicle and then a nearby bank. It all happened about 2:15 am eastern time in the central Mavocke neighborhood of Lembarton, just a few miles away from Capitol Hill.

Garson failed a field sobriety test and was taken to a local police precinct. About an hour later, Garson left the jail after paying a $150 bail fine. He left in a black SUV with an unknown person.

That person has now been identified as Garson's girlfriend, 29-year-old Kate Billing, who works for the Foreign Affairs Department.

Garson has not commented on his arrest yet. The Veroche Nationalist did not show up to work today at the Federal Assembly. His office told national media he will hold a press conference tomorrow morning.

So far, NAT leaders in the Assembly are withholding comment on the incident. Minority Leader Allison McGint told the National Press Federation (NPF) said the situation "looks very damaging" but said she will not address the issue until talking with Garson later today and hearing his press conference tomorrow.

Garson, 31, has represented the electorate of Lanakis-Southwick since 2010.

BREAKING--Veroche MA Crashes Car, Arrested For Drunken-Driving

2011-06-09T02:40:00.000-07:00

Assemblyman's blood alcohol level unknown

MAVOCKE--Federal Assemblyman Nick Garson was arrested for drunken-driving early Thursday morning after crashing his car, the Mavocke Capitol is reporting.

The Veroche Nationalist, who represents the electorate of Lanakis-Southwick, was arrested after colliding with another vehicle in the Lembarton neighborhood in central Mavocke. Garson's car then crashed into a nearby bank at A Street and Pollard Avenue.

Mavocke's Metropolitan Police responded to the scene, and no injuries were reported. Damage to the bank building was minimal, police said.

It's not known what Garson's blood alcohol level was at the time of the crash, but Metropolitan Police say they are awaiting the results of a blood sample.

Garson was arrested and booked at the Metropolitan Police Lembarton Precinct. He was released about an hour later when an unknown person arrived at the jail and paid the $150 bail.

It was unclear when Garson will face a magistrate.

If convicted of the misdemeanor crime, Garson could face one year in prison and a $2,000 fine.

Bartholomew's Popularity Holding Steady In Biereland

2011-06-07T22:54:00.000-07:00

Gov's popularity has dipped only slightly

BROOKINGS, Biereland--While many of the nation's newly-elected governors have seen a drop in popularity, six months since the 2010 election, Biereland Gov. San Bartholomew is still relatively popular.

A new poll released by the Mercury Polling Firm shows the first-term Nationalist governor with a 52% approval rating, a slight drop of two points from his post-election 54% approval rating.

The same poll showed the number of those who disapprove has dropped from 44% in December to 38% in June.

The governor's approval ratings are higher than his likeability ratings, however. While 52% approved of Bartholomew, only 43% said they "like" him.

The state's first Nationalist governor, Bartholomew has yet to take on contentious issues such as environmental protection, transportation projects, and medical marijuana.

So far, aides say the governor is focused on improving the economy, but will introduce environmental legislation soon that will call for protection of millions of acres of state land.

De Auonne: Conservatives 'Have No One' To Challenge Me

2011-06-06T02:41:00.000-07:00

Trinton gov sees easy path to re-election

WILMINGTON, Trinton--Gov. Mark De Auonne is feeling pretty confident these days.

The first-term Nationalist governor is up for re-election in 2012, but he isn't worried about any potential Conservative challengers.

"Who do they have? They have no one. They have no one at this point," De Auonne told a reporter with the Trinton Examiner newspaper, speaking about the Conservative Party's chances of reclaiming the governor's mansion.

Healthy confidence? Or foolish arrogance? Depends on who you ask.

"He's right. They really don't have anyone that could possibly be stacked against him and win," Trinton Nationalist Party Chairman Paul Lumberg said. "So far, there are no [Conservative] candidates that have a chance."

Trinton State Sen. Jim Conway (N-Delton) told the Examiner the governor "should feel confident."

"I think he has every reason to feel confident in his ability to gain re-election and in his ability to govern this state," Conway said. "He's a good governor."

But Conservatives see the issue differently, no surprise.

"This is a governor who, although he may be a nice person and popular and the media may like him, he's really quite arrogant," said Tom Schillings, chairman of the state Conservatives. "And arrogance is a turn-off to voters. People vote against you when you're arrogant and think you're undefeatable."

Even members of the governor's own party feel the comments show an arrogant feeling of invincibility that is unflattering and unwise.

"It makes him sound like he thinks he can't be beat, when he talks that way," said State Sen. Jim McIlred (N-Alhag). "Part of being a good candidate is being aware that you can never take anything for granted."

The governor may be right to an extent.

The Conservatives, so far, have no announced candidates to challenge De Auonne. His 2010 CNS opponent, Mark Bronure, is now a Federal Assemblyman, representing the electorate of Eminger in southern Trinton, and appears content to stay in the Federal Assembly.

Sen. Greg Baxter's term ends in 2012, but he appears to be leaning toward running for re-election. The state's other CNS senator, Kelsey Frascanio, has also said she wants to stay in the Senate.

The party's only other state-wide office-holder, Secretary of State Trip Kellet, is seeking re-election to his post in 2012.

That leaves relatively few candidates.

The most-mentioned contenders include Trussler Corp. CEO Jim Valoix of Clillenchap, on the state's central coast and State Sen. Jim Cass of Red Trail. Bryan Kim, a Federal MP for Mendenhall in the state's southwest corner, is also thought to be considering a bid.

Former Sens. Brian Brown and Richard C. Parker could also make a bid, though both have said they have no interest in running. Failed 2010 Senate candidate Randy Kalamaza similarly declined to enter the race.

Out of the three oft-mentioned candidates, Valoix, a wealthy businessman, has the most money, while Kim has the most name recognition from a failed Senate primary campaign in 2008 against then-incumbent Brian Brown. Cass has little money or name recognition outside his central-Trinton state Senate district.

But no matter how difficult their chances may be, all three men are giving the idea considerable thought. Valoix told the National Press Federation he is "seriously leaning" toward a gubernatorial run in 2012. Cass has not spoken to the media, but has created a Political Action Committee (PAC), which suggests he may be interested. And Kim told the Mavocke Capitol newspaper he is also "seriously considering" a bid, and will decide this summer after "considerable prayer and talking with my family."

For now though, De Auonne, the young, handsome, and engaging governor, is in a good position for re-election. His approval ratings have fallen from an all-time high of 81% right after his election. But he still has a healthy rating, at 61 per cent. He also has a healthy campaign war chest, with over $1.3 million in the bank already.

Christaman Bashes Governor, But Won't Say If He'll Run

2011-06-04T04:15:00.000-07:00

Assemblyman says governor is 'heading for disaster'

TOULEVILLE, Veroche--Conservative Assemblyman Don Christaman slammed incumbent Veroche Gov. Linda Van Auhn Friday, telling the Touleville Collector newspaper that Van Auhn is leading the state "toward a cliff."

"The current governor is leading our state toward a cliff. We haven't fallen off the cliff yet, but we're running toward it full speed ahead," said Christaman, who represents the north-central Veroche electorate of Touleville-Chutney Island in the Federal Assembly.

Christaman added that Van Auhn is "heading for disaster" by raising taxes on small businesses and middle income families. He also blames the governor and the state legislature for the $9.3 billion budget deficit, which is resulting in deep cuts and tax hikes.

"This is not leadership. Leadership is not out-of-control spending followed by tax hikes to make up for it. Leadership is taking the time to go through the budget and to exercise fiscal discipline and see what can be afforded and what can't. That's what we need now more than ever in Pointe Lear," he said.

Christaman's comments indicate the congressman is seriously considering a bid for governor in 2012 against Van Auhn, who is up for re-election.

When asked, however, about a run for governor, the assemblyman, who previously ran unsuccessfully for the Senate in 2008 against Nationalist Aaron Tobias Griffith, declined to say if he's in.

"Right now, I'm committed to serving the people of Touleville-Chutney Island," he told an NPF reporter.

Christaman is one of several potential Conservative contenders. Former professional football player Steve Serpino and Pendleton Mayor Ric Renner are both considering bids. Lieutenant Governor Brad Davidson is also expected to join the race, while former Sen. Evelynn Blankenship is said to be mulling a run but has yet to decide.

Former gubernatorial candidates Todd Argouth and Steve Leona have already announced they will not seek a rematch with Van Auhn in 2012.

Jaimeson Will Not Seek Re-Election

2011-05-31T19:49:00.000-07:00

Ceona senator will not run for re-election in 2012

MAVOCKE--Ceona Conservative Sen. Ty Jaimeson will not seek re-election in 2012, he announced Tuesday.

The first-term senator's decision leaves a new vacancy for the Conservative Party, which will already be defending open seats in Deschire and Wilkonshire.

Jaimeson did not immediately give a reason for his decision. A written statement sent out by his office said only that the decision was made "after much reflection and input" from his family.

MAs Bronure, Moore Engaged

2011-05-26T21:59:00.000-07:00

Couple plan April 2012 wedding

CLOTHEN, Lial--Wedding bells are ringing on Capitol Hill, or at least, engagement bells.

Conservative Members of Assembly (MAs) Katie Bronure, member for Naving and the North, and Ryan Moore, member for Seymour, have announced their engagement.

The couple made the announcement in a video posted on both of their websites, as well as on Twitter and Facebook.

Bronure, 31, and Moore, 32, had been dating since June 2009, friends say. Moore proposed to Bronure last week during a late-night walk at Capitol Square in Mavocke.

In the video, Moore says he is "honored to marry the most beautiful woman I know." Bronure returns the affection, calling Moore the "cutest politician in Grassadellia."

Ironically, the two were political opponents at one time, having ran against each other in the 2008 Conservative primary to challenge Sen. Susan Thompson (N). Bronure narrowly edged her future fiance, 35% to his 34%.

"He's still a little bitter about that," Bronure jokes in the video.

No official date has been set yet, but the couple is planning to hold a wedding in April 2012.

A Bronure-Moore marriage would add another member to the growing Bronure political dynasty. Bronure is the daughter of the late billionaire Paul Bronure and his widow, Lauren, who is a senator from Wellington.

Sister Lindsey Bronure is also an MP from Wellington, and her cousin Mark Bronure represents Trinton in the Assembly as well.

When they do get married, Moore and Bronure will likely become the second couple to serve in Congress while married. Already, Reps. John and Linda Bosworth represent Veroche in the Assembly.

Penora Reserves Armasson Domain, Launches Website

2011-05-26T21:35:00.000-07:00

Website attacks Armasson on health care, education

MATTINOW, Damoign--The race for governor in Damoign is already getting ugly--more than a year before the next election.

A political action committee (PAC) tied to State Attorney General Rod Penora (N), Damoign Solutions, quietly unveiled a new website attacking Penora's potential primary opponent, former Lieutenant Governor David Armasson (N).

Worse, the website is registered as www.davidarmasson.org, which is bound to be confused with Armasson's official web page, www.davidarmasson.com.

Visitors to davidarmasson.org will find "Thirty Reasons David Armasson Should Not Run For Governor," as well as a host of comments Armasson has made on health care and education, many of which are taken out of context.

Armasson's office was quick to respond, telling the Damoign Register of Mattinow that Penora's move was "treasonous."

"Only someone with as little character and decency as Rod Penora would launch a website against a fellow Nationalist and public servant like David Armasson," campaign spokesman Logan Camperan said.

Penora's office did not respond to calls about the matter. Calls to Damoign Solutions listed office in Vicksburg also went unreturned.

Assemblywoman Says bin Laden Death Violated International Law

2011-05-26T21:09:00.000-07:00

Assemblywoman: US attack on Pakistani compound is violation of international law

MAVOCKE--The US attack that killed September 11 mastermind Osama bin Laden was a violation of international law, according to one member of Grassadellia's Federal Assembly.

Assemblywoman Gretchen "Gretzy" Ianhou (pronounced "Ian-how"), a Liberal Democrat who represents the electorate of Beachbrin, told the GBC the US attack was "unjustified and without international legality."

"I know how badly they wanted to kill him and get rid of him, and I don't blame them on that. But the way they went about it was illegal and violated international law, as well as Pakistani sovereignty," Ianhou said.

"They had no international law justification for doing what they did. They just went in there and overrode Pakistani authority and did their own thing without permission," she added.

Ianhou told the GBC she plans to bring up the issue in a meeting with Foreign Affairs Secretary Jim McCaren later this month, though she doesn't expect the administration to do much about the issue.

"I'm going to talk to Jim McCaren but I don't think that's a priority of this administration," Ianhou said.

BREAKING--Sen. Sheila Crouwsky Dead At 79

2011-05-15T23:08:00.000-07:00

Senator had been struggling with poor health

MAVOCKE--Veteran Democratic-Reformist Senator Sheila Crouwsky of Province of Grassadellia has passed away at her home in Mavocke. She was 79 years old.

A spokeswoman from the senator's office released a statement to the National Press Federation (NPF) saying Crouwsky died due to heart complications. The statement did not specify what kind of complications, although the senator has had several minor heart attacks in recent years.

"At approximately 8:35 pm eastern time on Sunday, May 15, 2011, Senator Sheila Crouwsky (DR-POG) died from heart complications at her home in Mavocke," the statement read.

It went on to say the senator was "a champion for Province of Grassadellia and the Democratic-Reformist Party," and praised her work for senior citizens, women, and the environment.

The senator's office will hold a press conference tomorrow in Mavocke. A lengthier statement is expected to be released.

President Menuhaeo was told of Crouwsky's passing, and Collester released a statement Sunday night, saying the President is "deeply saddened" and that "the people of POG will never be the same without a strong voice like Sheila Crouwsky's fighting for their behalf."

Menuhaeo served with Crouwsky in the Senate for two terms before being elected President.

POG Gov. Donna Almone also released a statement, sending her "deepest condolences" to the Crouwsky family and asked all POGers to keep the family in their thoughts and prayers.

"I know from experience that losing someone so close that you love is difficult," Almone said. "Sheila Crouwsky was an icon in Province of Grassadellia, and tonight, we lost someone we are all close to."

Suspicious Plane Escorted By Fighter Jets

2011-05-11T14:35:00.000-07:00

Pilot would not return radio feedback

LOGANPORT, Monomi--A small plane that did not register a flight plan with the National Aviation Authority (NAA) has safely landed in Monomi after fighter jets escorted it to the ground.

The plane, a small Cessna 206, was flying over western Monomi Wednesday afternoon. Traffic controllers tried to radio the plane from the ground, but the pilot did not respond after numerous attempts at contact.

At 12:39 pm western time, National Security Secretary Michelle Gates authorized two F-15 fighter jets from Eilecker Airforce Base in Skyllings to escort the plane to safety on the ground. The planes landed at a municipal airport in the town of Loganport, about 150 miles northeast of Heydworth.

The pilot has been taken in for questioning by Crown Police (CP). There were no other passengers in the aircraft at the time of the incident.

It's unclear why the pilot did not return radio contact to ground controllers. The plane has been seized for evidence and taken to the CP office in Skyllings.

2 Dead After Paragliding Accident Near Parkins

2011-05-09T01:27:00.000-07:00

Malfunction cause of accident

PARKINS, Ceona--Two people are dead after a paragliding accident near Parkins, Ceona late Sunday afternoon around 4:00 pm.

Officials from the Desoco Joquan County Sheriff's Department have confirmed the paraglider and his instructor were killed after an equipment malfunction while paragliding off Trower Mountain, about 25 miles southwest of Parkins.

It's unclear what type of malfunction occurred. The area has been cordoned off until authorities complete their investigation.

The names of the victims have not been identified, pending notification of kin. However, police have identified the instructor as a 46-year-old male and the student as a 19-year-old man.

5-Year-Old Brings Gun To School For Show-And-Tell

2011-04-27T13:02:00.000-07:00

No charges for kindergartner

LES VIQUES, Wellington--The lockdown at an elementary school in northeastern Wellington is over after school officials confiscated a gun brought by a five-year-old student.

School administrators say the student had a hand gun in his backpack. When the boy's teacher discovered the weapon, she notified the school principal and police.

The school, John P. Hutton Elementary, was briefly put under a lockdown, but it was lifted about 10 minutes later.

After interviewing the boy, police believe he took the gun from his dad's dresser. He brought the gun to school for show-and-tell, according to police.

"This is another example of a young child being fascinated by a gun and the gun not being secure," Sgt. Jim DeHont of the Les Viques Police Department said. "Parents need to remember: keep your guns locked up. The consequences could be devastating for children and their parents."

The boy will be suspended for the rest of the week, a school district spokesperson said. And it's unclear if charges could be filed against the boy's parents.

Blu Ray Ray Arrested For Shoplifting

2011-04-27T12:54:00.000-07:00

Hip hop artist to face court Monday

BROOKINGS, Biereland--Hip hop artist Blu Ray Ray has been arrested for shoplifting, according to the Greene Mountain Press.

Ray, whose real name is Nicholas Tiogonda, was in Brookings for a sold-out concert Saturday night.

The next day, Tiogonda and a group of friends spent the evening shopping in downtown Brookings at luxury stores. The group also hit up several pubs.

While shopping at Elon's, a luxury clothing store, a store employee noticed Tiogonda discreetly pick up a jacket and walk out without paying. The jacket was priced at more than $600.

Store managers confronted Tiogonda, who denied stealing.

He was arrested and charged with one count of petty theft. Tiogonda will face a judge Monday in Brookings. His publicist did not return comment.

Pergich Slashes State Jobs

2011-04-23T13:45:00.000-07:00

Lial governor says state must eliminate jobs to balance budget

CLOTHEN, Lial--Gov. Todd Pergich (NAT) says a large lay-off of state employees in unavoidable.

The freshman governor was unable to compromise with state house and senate leaders, and has wrangled with legislators over the state budget, which is facing a $3.2 billion deficit.

The only option left is lay-offs, about 600 of them, according to the governor.

"This is our last resort, and we have tried everything we can to prevent lay-offs, but to help balance the budget, we have no choice," Pergich said at a news conference at the capitol Friday.

The almost 600 state employees range from high-paid professionals to custodial staff at the capitol building.

Some of the lay-offs may be temporary, according to Pergich, depending on state tax revenue.

State labor unions are vehemently opposed to the governor's plan.

"This is not a last resort. This is an easy-out," said Ron Blauck, chair of the Lial State Workers Union (LSWU). "It's much easier for the governor to say, 'they've forced my hand, this is the only choice I'm left with,' but in fact, that's the easiest route. That's the lazy route. If the governor would actually go through the budget line by line and find where things can be cut, we could minimize the damage quite a bit."

Some state legislators agree.

"This governor is using state employees as pawns in his battle over the state budget," state Senator Mike Correll (C-Lygwood) told the NPF. "Instead of playing politics with the budget, he should be going through the budget and cutting real waste."

The governor's office responded, saying state leaders have left no choice.

"Without compromise on the budget, there is no other alternative," Dani Childress, spokeswoman for the governor said.

Childress added that lay-offs would probably be "unavoidable anyway," even if a compromise were reached between the governor and legislators.

Barring a last-minute deal between the three parties--state house and senate leaders and the governor--the pink slips will begin going out next week.

Already, labor groups are planning demonstrations. A protest is planned for next Monday at the state capitol in Clothen.

Man Goes Over Waterfall

2011-04-19T17:33:00.000-07:00

Developing Story

LAYTON, Province of Grassadellia--Police in southeast POG have recovered the body of a man who went over a large waterfall.

The 22-year-old man, who has not been identified, went over Loradack Falls, a drop of about 100 feet. Passersby called for help after finding the victim floating in the Loradack River.

Investigators aren't sure if the man died from the impact or from drowning.

Loradack State Park is closed until police finish their investigation. The San Leandro County Sheriff's Department says the park should re-open tomorrow.

Gabler Asks DeMont To Continue Leading NATGA

2011-04-09T16:26:00.000-07:00

E. Deschire gov led group in 2010 election

MADAGEN, Ceona--Governor General Christine Gabler has asked her Nationalist colleague, East Deschire Gov. Lynn DeMont, to continue leading the Nationalist Governors' Association, also known as NATGA.

Traditionally, the Governor General leads their party's campaign recruiting and strategy. But on Friday, Gabler asked DeMont to continue as the head of NATGA.

Gabler told Madagen's Royal Herald newspaper she asked DeMont to stay on as the head of NATGA because she is facing re-election in 2012, and won't have sufficient time to serve as governor, chairwoman of the governors' board, and head of the NAT's re-election strategy.

"It just comes down to time," Gabler told the Herald. "I can't sufficiently serve as governor of Ceona, and governor general and heading up NATGA. That's just too much for one person to handle."

Gabler added that DeMont did "such a fine job" during the 2010 gubernatorial elections, and that the affable governor from East Deschire is well-suited for the job.

"Lynn wears that hat very well," Gabler said, of his work as NATGA's leader.

Meanwhile, Damoign Gov. Sid Hoffa has been recruited to head the Conservative Governors' Association, or the CGA. He takes over from POG Gov. Donna Almone, who headed the CGA in 2010.

Search Continues For Campers Caught In Landslide

2011-04-09T15:21:00.000-07:00

Campers disappeared in landslide along Armana coast

MOREN'S COVE, Armana--The search for two campers who went missing following a landslide in northeastern Armana continued today.

The campers, two men in their twenties, were sleeping in a tent on top of a high cliff above the ocean, along state highway 51 near Moren's Cove State Park. A landslide caused the cliff and part of the highway to slide into the sea three days ago.

Divers called in from Hablanas Shores have been searching the water. Search crews have found a tent and camping supplies, as well as the campers' vehicle. But there is no sign of the missing men.

Highway 51 is shut down indefinitely until it can be repaired.

Alliance Corp. Posts Big Loss

2011-04-06T00:13:00.000-07:00

Insurance company sees drop in shares prices

CHRISTON, Wilkonshire--The Alliance Corporation, an insurance giant, has posted a big loss for the previous quarter.

The Christon-based company reported a loss of over $3 million, or a drop of about 1.6% in share prices, which now stand at $20.85 per share.

The company blames the loss on rising benefits costs for more than 3,000 employees, and a drop in revenue.

CEO Jason Blaine told Christon's Daily Reflector newspaper the company remains strong.

"Alliance is still a strong company, and like most other companies in all industries, we are facing real challenges with this recession, but overall Alliance remains a strong corporation, one of the strongest in the industry," Blaine said.

The insurance industry is crucial to Wilkonshire's economy, as more than 50 major insurance corporations are headquartered in the greater Christon area.

Blaine refused to rule out lay-offs, but a company spokesperson said lay-offs are not likely.

Saralo Elected Assistant Majority Leader

2011-03-21T23:18:00.000-07:00

Wellington senator will serve with Majority Leader John Morandi

MAVOCKE--Senate Nationalists elected Wellington Sen. Nadan Saralo (pronounced "Na-dawn Sa-rall-o) to be Assistant Majority Leader.

The first-term senator beat out Trinton Sen. Tim Blakewell for the number two post, and will serve with newly-elected Majority Leader Sen. John Morandi of Lial.

Saralo, who is of Jordanian descent, is the first non-white person to serve in a senate leadership position.

Speaking of his election, Morandi said he is "honored" to serve with Saralo.

"Nadan is someone I know I can trust and count on, and he will be a great deputy," Morandi told the NPF.

A statement from Saralo's Mavocke office said the senator is "prepared to join with John Morandi over the next two years to bring real change to the Senate."

The Wellington first-termer brings a more moderate tone to the leadership compared to Morandi's decidedly more liberal tilt. Saralo's selection will also bring a western perspective to NAT Senate leadership.

Harvannah To Switch To Two-Year Gubernatorial Terms

2011-03-17T02:21:00.000-07:00

Measure needed 60 per cent to pass

CLEVEY SPRINGS, Harvannah--The voters of Harvannah have voted to reduce the governor's term from four years to two.

Harvannah Secretary of State Jennifer Giorchani told the NPF Wednesday evening the elections data for State Measure 67 has been finalized.

The vote was held back during the December 2010 election, but the count was never publicized or certified due to litigation over the validity of the elections process.

But on Wednesday, the lawsuit against the state was thrown out, and the numbers were released by Giorchani's office. Those numbers show Harvannans narrowly approved Measure 67, which called for a reduction in a governor's term from the current four years to two.

"Approving Measure 67 means voters will elect a new governor every two years, as opposed to the current four year system we have now," Todd Garrett, spokesman for Greater Democracy, the main group behind the measure, said. "We are thrilled this passed, finally."

Proponents of the measure, namely Greater Democracy and the state Conservative Party, said it would allow voters to elect a governor more often, giving average citizens a stronger voice in state politics and lessening the power of the governorship.

Opponents, including Nationalist incumbent Gov. Mark Andres, said the measure would complicate Harvannah elections, cost more money, and reduce the effectiveness of government.

"If a governor has to face election every two years, then it's going to be very difficult for he or she to get a decent agenda passed through the legislature in that amount of time. Two years is just not enough time," Andres told the Harlyne Sun newspaper back in August 2010.

This wasn't the first time the idea was proposed. Back in 2008, backers of the two-year term idea got the measure on the ballot. It passed, but did not earn the necessary 60 per cent needed to amend the state's constitution.

This time around, however, just over 60 per cent of voters approved the measure. That means the state's constitution will now be amended, and Gov. Mark Andres will be running for a two-year term in 2012 when he's up for re-election.

While the measure calls for two-year terms, it does not provide for any term limits, so candidates can serve as many terms as they'd like, so long as they're elected.

Under the measure, the lieutenant governor also will be elected to two-year terms, while the positions of Attorney General and Secretary of State will remain four-year terms, something critics say is unfair.

"How is it that the governor and lieutenant governor will only be elected for two years but the AG and secretary of state will keep serving four?" state Sen. Jim McGibbons (N-Henotia) told the Sun.

Supporters of Measure 67 say the answer is simple: the governorship and lieutenant governorship are decidedly political positions, while attorney general and secretary of state are more non-partisan, in nature.

"The governor and lieutenant governor positions are much more ideologically-driven, much more political than the attorney general or secretary of state, who have no real interest in a political agenda but in protecting the people of Harvannah," state Rep. Gerry Edmundson (C-Ashfords Landing) said on WCVS 1050 am radio.

Opponents of Measure 67 have 90 days to appeal the voters' decision.

If Measure 67 survives a potential legal challenge, Harvannah will become the second state in the country to elect a governor every two years rather than four. New Portsmouth is the only state to currently employ the two-year term.

Chloe Dornsby Donates $500K To Japan Disaster Relief

2011-03-15T19:43:00.000-07:00

Actress says images of destruction are 'moving'

TREETON--Actress Chloe Dornsby has donated $500,000 (US) to the disaster relief effort in Japan, following the 9.0 magnitude earthquake that struck last week.

Dornsby, who is best known for playing "Judland Hall" in the hit TV series "Time of Our Lives," said she wanted to make the donation because "the hurt, the suffering are so unimaginable."

"How can you look at those pictures and not be moved by the damage and devastation?" Dornsby told Glamour magazine.

This isn't the first natural disaster Dornsby has donated to. Following the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, she donated the same amount, $500,000.

Dornsby said she also felt a special nudge to donate to Japan because her sister-in-law is a native of the island country.

"Because someone in my family is from that very place, it really hits close to home for me," she said.

Many Grassadellian aid agencies are accepting donations, including the Grassadellian Red Cross and WorldVision Grassadellia.

McCann Wins No. 2 Leadership Post

2011-03-15T19:25:00.000-07:00

Kalnier senator 'delighted' to serve alongside Jay Burns

MAVOCKE--Kalnier Sen. Shannon McCann has won the Conservative Party's Assistant Minority Leader post in the Senate.

McCann won in the fifth round of counting, beating out Sen. Jared Lanman of Remmington, who previously held the post, as well as fellow Sens. Dana Glow (Armana), Alyssa Jones (Damoign), Kelsey Frascanio (Trinton), Nadine Pietrasaelis (New Portsmouth) and Independent Sen. Niles Gilcrest (Veroche), who caucuses with the Conservative Party.

She will serve alongside Deschire Sen. Jay Burns, who earlier this week was elected Minority Leader by his Conservative peers.

"I'm delighted to serve with Jay Burns and to serve the people of this country as Assistant Minority Leader," McCann said in a statement given to the NPF. "My desire is to help bring about change in any way I can, and I feel this position will allow me to be a stronger voice in the Senate for all Grassadellians."

The identity of McCann's NAT counterpart, the Assistant Majority Leader, is unknown right now, as the party has not elected its leader. However, on Friday, Lial Sen. John Morandi was elected Majority Leader by Nationalist senators, as well as two Democratic-Reformists and one Independent senator, whom have all formed a coalition.

With the recent formation of the majority NAT-DR-Independent coalition, the balance of power in the Senate now stands at 49 to 46.

Tornado Warning Issued For Midwest

2011-03-15T18:38:00.000-07:00

NWB upgrades threat from 'watch' to 'warning'

FAIRFIELD, Ceona--The National Weather Bureau (NWB) has upgraded the threat of tornadoes from a "watch" to a "warning," as of Tuesday night.

The NWB office in Fairfield says tornadoes are possible in areas of southwestern Ceona, northwestern Remmington, and southeastern East Deschire. Wind gusts could reach speeds of 90 miles per hour.

The warning means it's "likely" tornadoes could occur.

The warning is in effect for the following counties: Fairfield County, Ceona; Karamas, Lodwell and Greenhel Counties in Remmington; and Riona, Sherlance and Sauder Counties in East Deschire.

The warning is in effect until 12:00 am Wednesday morning.

Frascanio Unendorses Reedsworth--Again

2011-03-13T01:36:00.000-08:00

Senator says her new colleague already broke several promises

WILMINGTON, Trinton--Senator Kelsey Frascanio (C-Trinton) is unendorsing Trinton's new Conservative-turned-Independent Senator-elect George Reedsworth--for the second time.

Earlier this week, Reedsworth--who previously promised to caucus with Conservatives if elected--joined forces with Nationalists, helping the NAT to form a coalition to take control of the Senate.

That move has Conservatives outraged, including fellow Trinton Senator Kelsey Frascanio, who endorsed Reedsworth during a run-off election between he and incumbent Sen. Grace Kemp (N), whom Reedsworth defeated.

"Had I known George Reedsworth was going to jump into the arms of the Nationalist Party as soon as he got elected, I would never have endorsed him," Frascanio said at a press conference outside her Mavocke office. "He used me. And he betrayed my trust and the trust of the people of Trinton, who voted for him because they thought he would be a conservative voice in the Senate. Obviously he is proving to be a dishonest liberal masquerading as a Conservative."

Reedsworth insists his alliance with Senate Nationalists does not mean he has sacrificed his Conservative views.

"This is not a union of ideals or ideology. It's a union of numbers. [The NAT] want me on their side, not because I agree with them but because I can help form a majority," he said at his Mavocke office.

"I've already made it clear to John Morandi and the other Nationalists that I will not vote with them on a number of issues. They know that I will live up to my promise during the campaign, and that is to be an independent voice for Trinton. I promised not to let any political party control me and just because I'm forming a coalition with the Nationalist Party does not mean I will vote liberal or go hand-in-hand with John Morandi. I will vote my conscience, and I will vote what the people of Trinton want," Reedsworth said.

But when asked about his pledge to caucus with Conservatives, Reedsworth was firm.

"I was planning on caucusing with the Conservatives, yes. But the way it ended up was the Nationalists had the first opportunity to form government, and it became increasingly clear to me that the NAT was going to hold power in the Senate, and that I would be guaranteed a lot more influence if I joined them. So I did what was best for Trinton. I joined the majority party. Would I rather be with the Conservative Party? Of course. My views are more in line with their's. But they're in the minority and Trinton needs a majority-party senator."

Reedsworth's complicated relationship with Frascanio goes back a long ways. During the CNS Senate primary campaign, Frascanio initially pledged her support for Reedsworth. But when the then-congressman failed to announce his candidacy in a timely fashion, Frascanio about-faced and endorsed the more hard-line state Sen. Randy Kalamaza, who ended up winning the primary.

Then in the three-way general election, in which Reedsworth ran as an Independent, Kalamaza came in last place, while first-place Sen. Grace Kemp failed to attain the necessary 40 per cent to win. That prompted a run-off election between the top-two candidates, Kemp and Reedsworth. It was then that Frascanio (at the last minute) endorsed Reedsworth, telling reporters he was not an ideal choice but a better alternative to the ultra-liberal Kemp.

For now, it seems Frascanio and Reedsworth will be at odds.

"I really feel betrayed," Frascanio told GNN's James Madine. "George Reedsworth campaigned as a conservative. And now he's on the Nationalists' side. That's essentially a lie. He's broken campaign promises and he has lied to the people of Trinton. I can't stand behind someone like that."

"With all due respect to my colleague, I don't need her endorsement," Reedsworth told the NPF. "The people of Trinton sent me here to be a Senator for the people, not for the Conservative Party or the Nationalist Party. I will continue to advance conservative causes in the Senate, and I will never change my views to fit in with a certain political party's agenda. But I will work with whichever party can best deliver for Trinton, and right now that happens to be the Nationalist Party. Later on down the road it may very well be the Conservative Party. But right now I'm with the NAT.

"Again, it's not a happy marriage, but a marriage of necessity. I don't like them and they don't really like me. But we need each other," Reedsworth said of his relationship with the Nationalist Party.

Grassadellians Having Difficulties Contacting Loved Ones In Japan

2011-03-12T00:51:00.000-08:00

Foreign Affairs Dept. working to assist separated loved ones

MAVOCKE--Grassadellians are facing difficulties contacting loved ones in Japan following the record 8.9 magnitude earthquake.

Foreign Affairs Under-Secretary Dawnelle Hunter-Garrett confirmed that over 15,000 calls have been made to the department's headquarters in Mavocke. Hunter-Garrett said the office has been averaging about 555 calls per hour since the quake happened.

"A lot of people are calling in concerned about their family members or loved ones, and we recognize there is a real concern here so we are doing everything we can to assist in the search and verification process," Hunter-Garrett said at a press conference Friday afternoon.

Extra personnel have been brought in to handle phone calls and to help locate and confirm the safety of the more than 30,000 Grassadellians living in Japan.

So far, the agency has confirmed two Grassadellian tourists were killed when a tree fell during the massive tsunami generated by the large quake. Their names have not been identified yet.

Another fifteen Grassadellians have been injured, but none with life-threatening injuries, Hunter-Garrett said.

"Obviously, we are very worried about the many Grassadellian citizens that are currently in Japan. And our hearts go out to the whole nation of Japan in this very difficult, tragic time," she said.

The Foreign Affairs Department is asking citizens for patience, as calls are pouring in and agents follow every inquiry.

"We urge people to call in, but we ask that they be patient, because this is a huge natural disaster and there are quite a few people affected," Hunter-Garrett said. "I promise we are working as fast as we can to account for the safety of every Grassadellian affected by this."

The government has set up a hotline for concerned family to contact. The number is 1-800-325-6700. Online inquiries can also be made at the department's website www.dofa.ga.

Nationalists Form Coalition In Senate

2011-03-10T15:44:00.000-08:00

NAT forms coalition with D-R, Independent members

MAVOCKE--The Nationalist Party has successfully formed a coalition in the Senate, after more than a week of negotiations.

Democratic-Reformist Senators Sheila Crouwsky of POG and Julie Wynmyer of Carova, as well as newly-elected Independent Senator George Reedsworth of Trinton, have all agreed to join the NAT coalition.

The NAT currently holds 46 of the Senate's 95 seats. With the addition of Crouwsky, Wynmyer and Reedsworth, that gives the NAT 49 seats, enough to make a majority.

That means for the first time in ten years, the NAT will control the Senate, albeit narrowly. The Conservatives hold 44 seats, and Democratic-Reformist William J. Locke of Monomi and Conservative-turned-Independent Niles Gilcrest of Veroche have agreed to caucus with the CNS, giving the Senate a 49-46 split.

Crouwsky's liberal record meant it was a given she would join the NAT, as she has done in the past. But the NAT successfully persuaded Wynmyer, who previously caucused with the Conservatives, to join their ranks. And Reedsworth pledged during his campaign he would stick with the Conservative Party, even after losing out in the CNS primary election. But the veteran assemblyman-turned senator now says he has to "do what's right for the people of Trinton."

"The Nationalists offered me a valuable spot on the Senate Defense Committee. This is a very important position, both for me and for the people of my state. I owe it to the people of Trinton to best serve them, and I can do that by landing an influential seat on an important committee," Reedsworth said.

Wynmyer, whose conservative voting record made her an unlikely partner with the NAT, made clear she openly disagrees with the Nationalist Party on many issues.

"We don't agree on everything. I know that and they know that. We're walking into this with everything on the table. I've already told them that I will not vote with them on everything. In fact, there will be quite a bit that I vote Conservative on, because I am an independent-minded leader. I don't side with one party or the other. I think good ideas come from all parties, and I'm going to work with whichever party is most willing to give me and my state a chance," Wynmyer told the NPF.

The Nationalists also tried to convince Veroche Sen. Niles Gilcrest, an Independent who lost his re-election bid in the CNS primary but won the general election, to come over to their side. But Gilcrest, who has disenchanted many Conservatives, already promised he would caucus with the CNS, and told the GBC he would not go back on his word.

"I am a man of my word, and when I say I'm going to stay with the Conservatives, I mean that. I am a Conservative at heart and I believe their agenda is more in tune with what the people of Grassadellia and my home state of Veroche want," Gilcrest said.

The NAT will now have to elect a new Senate Majority Leader. Current Minority Leader Shay Robertson of Damoign will stand for election. Senators John Morandi of Lial, Paul LeBouse of Kalnier, Paul Leitcher of Wellington, Jean Chaveau of Damoign, and John Yannes of POG are all expected to contend for the position as well.

Police Foil E. Deschire School Shooting

2011-03-10T15:07:00.000-08:00

Cops say 17-year-old student was planning a 'bigger Red Fearn'

JIMICUS, East Deschire--Police in central East Deschire say they've foiled a well-planned school shooting.

Authorities in the small town of Jimicus arrested a 17-year-old suspect (who has not been named because he is a minor) on suspicion of planning a massive shooting at his local high school.

Police say they were tipped off by other students and the boy's parents, who found evidence he was planning an attack.

"Today, we avoided another tragedy," Jimicus Police Sgt. Jim Laren said at a press conference.

Police say the student had planned the attack thoroughly, going so far as to draw blueprints of the school's layout. He also had a "hit list" of students and teachers to target, and police believe he had access to guns at his home.

"This could have been a very scary, a very deadly attack of unprecedented nature in this part of the country," Laren said.

School officials were shocked, but relieved the attack didn't happen.

"We are a very tight-knit community and this school is the pride of our town," said John McFarland, principal of Jimicus High School. "If this would have happened, it would have been devastating to our community. We're so thankful students and other concerned individuals came forward. They really did save, potentially, many lives."

The school has about 300 students, according to 2010 records.

A classmate told police the suspect once said he wanted to "shoot up" the school, and promised it would be "bigger and better than Red Fearn," a reference to Grassadellia's worst school shooting in Red Fearn, Monomi back in 1999. That shooting left seven students and three teachers dead, and another 11 wounded.

The sole suspect in that case, then-17-year-old Casey Raymond, was sentenced to 612 years in prison. He's currently being held at the Monomi State Penitentiary and will be eligible for parole in 2061, when he's 79 years old.

For now, the suspect in the shooting plot is being held in a juvenile detention centre in Ridgeview. He will go before a judge Friday morning.

Lamberth City Councilman Attacked With Hammer

2011-03-10T14:39:00.000-08:00

Councilman Grover Tershlin recovering in hospital after violent attack

LAMBERTH, Kalnier--A Lamberth city councilman is recovering in hospital after being violently attacked with a hammer.

Grover Tershlin, who represents the northeast part of the city, was attacked Wednesday night in a vacant parking lot in northeast Lamberth's Dugger Hill neighborhood.

The councilman was walking to his car around 9:30 pm when a man confronted him. The suspect demanded he hand over his wallet. Tershlin complied and attempted to run away but the suspect struck him in the back of the head with what police believe was a hammer.

Minutes later, a passerby found the councilman lying in the parking lot in a pool of blood and phoned authorities. Tershlin was taken to St. Anne's Hospital in Lamberth with life-threatening injuries, but a hospital spokeswoman told local media Thursday he is expected to live.

"His injuries are serious but doctors do expect him to survive," the spokeswoman said.

Shortly after arriving at the scene, police were able to locate and arrest 39-year-old Allen Stiller, a transient who has previous drug and assault convictions. Police confirm the suspect had a hammer in his possession, as well as a small amount of marijuana, however, it's unclear if he was under the influence of drugs at the time.

Stiller was booked into the Golstad County Jail, and charged with one count of attempted murder and one count of fleeing the scene of a crime. He is expected to go before a magistrate Thursday afternoon.

Meanwhile, local leaders are outraged at Tershlin's attack. Lamberth Mayor Felix Brinada said he was "horrified" at the attack, and told the National Press Federation (NPF) that "violent crime of that nature has no place in this city."

Fellow city councilman Steve Briggs called the assault "unbelievable," and said he hopes his colleague recovers swiftly.

"Certainly, we wish Grover a speedy and sound recovery after such an awful incident," Briggs said.

There is no word on Tershlin's immediate condition. Doctors told local media Thursday morning he was in serious but stable condition.

Oswell Joins Lanakis Law Firm

2011-03-10T00:55:00.000-08:00

Former Remmington lieutenant gov to focus on international law

LANAKIS--Former Remmington Lieutenant Governor Shane Oswell has joined the Lanakis law firm of Schoell, Sherman and Millenberg.

Oswell, a Conservative who served under former Remmington Governor Michael Killings, confirmed he will join the firm, although he will continue to keep his main residence in Remmington City.

Allen Lindsay, a spokesman for the firm, verified that Oswell will work part-time in the firm's main office in Lanakis as well as his home office in Remmington City.

In an e-mail to GNN, Oswell's secretary said the former lieutenant governor is "pleased to join an internationally regarded firm" and is "especially excited to helping clients navigate the sometimes difficult waters of international law." Lindsay confirmed Oswell will focus primarily on international law issues.

Oswell served as lieutenant governor of Remmington from 2004 to 2008. Before that he served three terms in the state House of Delegates. Prior to his entry into politics, he worked as an assistant prosecuting attorney for Benham County.

Argouth Rules Out Run For Governor

2011-03-02T17:41:00.000-08:00

Former gubernatorial candidate will not seek rematch with Linda Van Auhn

TWIN LAKES, Veroche--Former Conservative gubernatorial candidate Todd Argouth will not run for governor in 2012, he announced today.

Argouth ran against Van Auhn in a special election back in 2007, and has mulled a rematch with incumbent Nationalist Gov. Linda Van Auhn, but ultimately decided against it.

"I've given this a great deal of thought and a lot of people have encouraged me to run. While I am honored, I believe that running for governor at this time would not be in the best interest of myself or my family," he said at a press conference.

Argouth's decision opens the door for other Conservatives who are itching to take on the first-term Van Auhn, who has presided over a difficult economy in the Plains State. Among the top contenders is former candidate and businessman Steve Leona, who ran unsuccessfully against Van Auhn in 2008. Former professional football player Steve Serpino and Pendleton Mayor Ric Renner are also considering a run.

Lieutenant Governor Brad Davidson is also rumored to be considering a challenge to Van Auhn, though his office refused to comment.

Garesby Exploring Run For Governor

2011-03-01T17:40:00.000-08:00

Popular mayor is a seasoned moderate

HARRISPORT, Harvannah--The popular Conservative mayor of Harrisport, George Garesby, is considering a run for governor, sources close to the mayor say.

Garesby originally was uninterested in running. But in recent weeks, state Senate President Jim Fribenzi and the party's 2008 December election nominee, businessman Bill Barnes, have both declined to run against incumbent Gov. Mark Andres (NAT), who is up for re-election in 2012.

Without Fribenzi or Barnes, the party has few viable options. The frontrunners so far appear to be Attorney General Julia Giorchani, who ran unsuccessfully against Andres in a special election in the spring of 2008, and businessman Rich Tuller, who serves as CEO of H-Tel, a Harlyne-based telecommunications company.

Many party insiders view Giorchani as too combative and Tuller as too gaffe-prone. Garesby, however, is a veteran politician with middle-of-the-road views and experience, and many party insiders believe his many years as a mayor and community leader would match up well against Andres' years as mayor of Harlyne.

Friends close to Garesby say the mayor, who is a well-respected moderate, is reconsidering his previous decision not to run, and is quietly building a campaign staff.

Those same sources, who asked not to be identified because they're not permitted to talk to the media, told Clevey Springs political reporter Carl Orsbad that Garesby met with Fribenzi to discuss a possible campaign. Neither Garesby nor Fribenzi would confirm that report.

Neither Giorchani or Tuller have formally announced they're running, though most believe they will. Giorchani did not want to comment for this story and Tuller was unavailable for comment.

Snowstorm Slams Wilkonshire, Damoign

2011-02-23T23:42:00.000-08:00

Traffic, schools impacted by big storm

CHRISTON, Wilkonshire--A massive snowstorm that struck much of Wilkonshire and southern Damoign has left thousands of airline passengers stranded and is forcing thousands of school children to stay home tomorrow.

The storm hit the state's largest city, Christon, around 2:00 pm eastern time Wednesday, bringing up to eight inches of snow and wind gusts of 50 mph.

Further north in New Dunslee, the National Weather Observancy Bureau reported up to ten inches and similar gusts. Across the state line in neighboring Crowderville, Damoign, residents were dealing with high snow accumulations and downed power lines and trees.

Further west in the Oak Valley area, winds were sustained at 40-50 mph, and drifting snow caused hundreds of accidents along NR-5 and in the metropolitan areas. NR-5 has since been shut down from Lanby in the east to Pollis Creek in the west.

In the heavily-populated NR-1 corridor in eastern Wilkonshire, only state routes had been shut down by the Wilkonshire State Police (WSP), but NR-1 remained open, as of 10:00 pm eastern time.

On the other side of the state, at the capitol in Provincetown, where the storm did not hit, Governor Caroline Jepsey was briefed on the situation via satellite by Christon Mayor Tara Hadley and other local officials.

Jepsey told reporters she was dispatching state snow plows from western Wilkonshire to the much in need east side.

"I've talked with Mayor Hadley and the other mayors and officials over there, and basically, what they're telling me is that this is a very big storm that has caused a lot of travel headaches for a lot of people, but it's also a storm that has the potential for loss of life," Jepsey said. "My goal as governor is to reduce that risk and give our local governments the tools that they need to get the roads cleared and the airports running again."

Jepsey also asked for patience.

"This is a very big storm that no one was adequately prepared for and I'm just asking all Wilkonshireans to please bear with us in patience. We are getting streets plowed as fast as we can. We are getting highways sanded as fast as possible. We are trying to get flights resumed as quickly as possibly."

In Christon, Hadley was asking residents to stay home.

"The best thing you can do right now is simply stay home. The less people on the roads, the better," the mayor said.

Wilkonshire State Police were reporting upwards of 4,000 vehicle collisions in the eastern part of the state.

"There are a lot of people out there driving that have no idea how to drive in the snow," Constable Jeff Dunin told GBC Local Radio 1040. "We're advising drivers to just stay home tonight. There's no need to be out on the roads in this kind of dangerous weather."

Power outages were also a problem. As of 7:00 pm, there were some 260,000 households without power in the greater Christon area, according to Coastal Energy. Other electric companies reported about 60,000 customers without power in the New Dunslee area and another 40,000 in the Oak Valley region.

Already, hundreds of schools have cancelled or delayed classes for Thursday. Christon Public Schools, the state's largest public school district, cancelled classes for Thursday and may do so for Friday as well, a spokeswoman said.

And travel at Christon's main airport is at a standstill. More than a hundred flights were cancelled throughout the day, and thousands of passengers are stranded waiting for the weather to clear. A spokeswoman for GrassAir said the airline cancelled 27 flights into and departing from Christon.

"As soon as the weather clears, we are expecting to get our planes back up in the air and our passengers to their destinations," the spokeswoman said.

Addelson Holds On In Special Senate Election

2011-02-22T15:11:00.000-08:00

Nationalist senator holds off insurgent conservative opponent

DASH KNOLL, Deschire--Incumbent Sen. Jhinny Addelson (NAT) has hung on to secure a second term in the Senate.

With 97 per cent of precincts reporting, Addelson led Conservative Congressman Clay Aioki by a margin of 51-49 per cent.

Addelson briefly spoke at her campaign celebration in the city of Dash Knoll in northwestern Deschire, telling supporters today's vote was "a re-affirmation of the work we've been doing in Mavocke."

Aioki also spoke to his supporters in Berivian, telling the crowd that the people of Deschire were "hungry for change" but the special election dampened voter turn-out.

"I'm confident that if the election would have been held on election day with every other race, we would have been victorious," Aioki said. "But the people have spoken in this special election, and we respect the will of the people."

The two were competing in a special election, making Addelson's seat the last to be called in the 2010 elections.

Addelson's victory now gives the Nationalists a majority in the Senate. The party will now hold 46 seats to the Conservatives' 44. The Democratic-Reformist Party also holds 3 seats, while two seats are held by Independents.

That means the NAT can now proceed with forming leadership in the upper house, something it had previously been unable to do because of the almost evenly-split numbers in the Senate.

Paradise Cathedral Facing Senate Investigation

2011-02-22T14:26:00.000-08:00

Tax issues at center of investigation

PARADISE VALLEY, Monomi--The popular megachurch Paradise Cathedral, in Treeton's western suburbs, is facing an investigation from the Federal Senate's Faith and Religion Committee.

The church, which is famous for the many celebrities who have attended over the years, is being investigated for possible tax discrepancies and misuse of funds.

Senior Pastor Jim Mareesza, and his wife Linda, are also named in the investigation and may be asked to testify before the committee in Mavocke.

Currently, the church has an average weekly attendance of 17,000 people, and while church officials are refusing to release the sum earnings from the 2009-2010 fiscal year, the church did open an $82 million exhibition centre on the main campus in Paradise Valley last August.

Because her husband is also the pastor of a charismatic evangelical megachurch, Sen. Alyssa Jones (C-DMG), who chairs the Senate Faith and Religion Committee, has recused herself from leading the investigation, and has asked ranking member Sen. Lincoln Pacinow (N-WEL) to lead the investigation.

In a statement at the committee's hearings last week, Jones said her husband Darren Jones, who is a senior-executive pastor at Falls Church in Grassadellia City, has "met Jim and Linda Mareesza once or twice, but does not carry on a friendship with them."

Jones added that her husband met the Mareesza's at church conferences.

A lawyer for the church and for the Mareesza's did not comment on the pending case.

For years, Paradise Cathedral has served as the spiritual home of famous celebrities. The church, which became famous in the 1970's when it was first constructed, has served as the backdrop for many celebrity weddings and funerals, most recently for the funeral of actor Jack Spragen last year.

Among the many celebrities that currently attend Paradise Cathedral are actors Bob Ripmorten, Leslie Utesh, Ann Ramsey and Jeff Figlebottom. Golf star Adrian Pond has also been seen attending the Cathedral.

Senators Jockey For Leadership Positions

2011-02-16T16:44:00.000-08:00

Members from both parties vying for leadership while control of Senate still uncertain

MAVOCKE--Several senators from both parties are jockeying for leadership positions within the chamber.

Since it's unclear still which party will hold either an outright majority or a coalition majority, members from both sides are quietly seeking support from their peers for the majority leader and assistant majority leader posts.

On the Conservative side, Sen. Jared Lanman of Remmington, the former assistant majority leader under now-retired George Landers of Ceona, is considered the front runner for majority leader should the CNS win control. Other Conservatives seeking that position include John BiGadi of Lial, Nancy Lindselli of East Deschire, Jay Burns of Deschire and Dick Trau of POG.

An interesting twist: Trau is married to Lanman's older sister, POG Lieutenant Governor Beth Lanman-Trau.

Supporters of Lanman and Burns say the two young senators would bring youth and vigor to the position. Backers of Lindselli and Trau believe they would bring experience to a job--majority leader--that is notoriously difficult to carry out successfully, especially in times of divided government, as the Senate currently finds itself in.

John BiGadi supporters say the Lial senator's background in the finance sector would be valuable in times of economic crisis.

On the Nationalist side, current Minority Leader Shay Robertson of Damoign is considered a front runner, as are Lial Senator John Morandi and Wellington Senator Paul Leitcher. Fellow Damoign Senator Jean Chaveau has thrown her hat into the ring, as have Kalnier's Paul LeBouse and POG's John Yannes.

Typically, the minority leader assumes the majority post when his or her party wins a majority. But Robertson, along with Nationalist Senate Campaign Committee (NSCC) chairman Steve Kolotano of Biereland, has faced criticism from many of his NAT peers for running a less-than-impressive campaign, in which Nationalists gained no seats in the 2010 elections.

"Shay Robertson should have been able to pick up at least five seats in this election, and instead the Conservatives stole several away from us," one NAT senator, who did not want to be named, told the Mavocke Capitol newspaper.

Morandi and Leitcher are likely to be the top two choices, as both have years of leadership experience and a record of bipartisanship.

But control of the Senate is still uncertain, as incumbent Sen. Jhinny Addelson of Deschire faces a special election against Conservative Congressman Clay Aioki.

Currently, the Conservative Party holds 44 seats, the Nationalists 45, the Democratic-Reformists 3, and, with yesterday's election of George Reedsworth in Trinton, there are now two Independent senators in the chamber as well.

If Aioki wins the special election, that will result in both the NAT and the CNS having 45 seats each. Senate tradition holds that the party of the sitting Vice President shall have the first opportunity to form government, in the event of a tie, which would give the Nationalists an opportunity to form a coalition with the minor party members. If that fails, the Conservatives will then have a chance to form government.

The current power struggle in the Senate is strangely similar to that following the 2008 elections, in which both parties had an equal number of seats. It wasn't until Senator Isaak Slooter of New Portsmouth switched his party affiliation from Traditionalist to Conservative that the CNS was able to claim an outright majority by one seat.

Reedsworth Wins Senate Run-Off in Trinton

2011-02-16T01:56:00.000-08:00

Three-term senator defeated by insurgent congressman

WILMINGTON, Trinton--Veteran Nationalist Senator Grace Kemp's tenure in the upper house came to an end Tuesday night, as Conservative-turned-Independent George Reedsworth defeated the three-term incumbent in a run-off election.

With 98 per cent of the state's precincts reporting, Reedsworth, 65, a congressman from the southern suburbs of Wilmington, led with 54.9 per cent to Kemp's 45.1 per cent.

It was a decisive victory for Reedsworth, who actually came in second place in a three-way race during the general election. In that race, Kemp came out on top with just under 40 per cent, the necessary amount to win. Reedsworth trailed with 32.5 per cent, followed by Conservative state Sen. Randy Kalamaza, who had 27.9 per cent.

Because no candidate reached the 40 per cent mark, the minimum required by state law to be certified the winner, the top two candidates, Kemp and Reedsworth, advanced to the run-off election.

Kemp, now 58, was just 40 years old when he entered the Senate. His tireless work on the environment and anti-war initiatives, his record of securing funding for his home state, as well as other liberal views made him a favorite in the run-off election in a state where Nationalists outnumber Conservatives 2-to-1.

But relentless attacks on his hyper-partisan nature and volatile temper caused Kemp's support to slip. Reedsworth, buoyed by enthused Conservatives, gained momentum and quickly caught up to Kemp in the polls.

Returns released by Trinton Secretary of State Trip Kellet show voter turn-out was substantially higher in the predominantly conservative areas of southern and western Trinton. Turn-out in the more liberal north, where the Kemp campaign was hoping to maximize vote gains, was considerably lower.

Statewide voter turn-out was around 43 per cent, according to Kellet; higher than his earlier prediction of 37 per cent.

Speaking to supporters at the Dublin Hotel in downtown Wilmington, Reedsworth promised to bring real change to the Senate.

"I have never been one to abide by convention or party politics. I never let politics determine my vote when I was in the Assembly, and I'll never let it determine my votes while in the Senate," he said.

Kemp, whose supporters gathered in the northern city of Tornboro, was visibly emotional as he recalled the past 18 years he spent in the Senate.

"While this is not the outcome we were hoping for, I respect the will of the voters," he said. "My time in the Senate has been the greatest time of my life. I am honored the people of Trinton have allowed me the opportunity to serve them in such a proud and distinguished way."

At his victory celebration, Reedsworth was joined on stage by Sen. Kelsey Frascanio, whose allegiance to the congressman waivered considerably during the campaign.

Reedsworth, who served in the Assembly for 12 years as a Conservative, lost the CNS primary to the more hardline Randy Kalamaza. After initially endorsing Reedsworth, Frascanio, Trinton's first woman in the Senate, changed her mind and backed Kalamaza.

When Kalamaza lost in the general election, Frascanio vowed to stay neutral during the run-off. But on Sunday, Ms. Frascanio made a last-minute endorsement of Reedsworth, who ran as an Independent after losing the primary to Kalamaza.

It was a complicated relationship and a confusing assortment of endorsements and retractions. But Frascanio and Sen. Kit McHenry of Veroche, chairwoman of the Conservative Senate Campaign Committee (CSCC), vowed to support Reedsworth despite the bitter primary and party switching controversy.

"George Reedsworth was not my first choice for Senate. But he's a heck of a lot better than Grace Kemp," Frascanio told GNN's James Madine on Monday.

McHenry told the GBC's Gene Caughley the CSCC would back Reedsworth "One hundred per cent, irrespective of the primary and party switching issue.

"In my view, George Reedsworth was a Conservative and he left the party unwillingly because he lost to a strong-willed but less viable candidate. He still is a Conservative. The affiliation behind his name may have changed but his values still line up with the Conservative Party," McHenry said.

Despite the public support from national party leaders, many Conservatives in Trinton, particularly social Conservatives, refused to support Reedsworth, who is decidedly more liberal on issues such as abortion and stem cell research. A recent Liberty poll showed only 3 in 10 social conservatives supporting Reedsworth.

In contrast, 8 in 10 self-described "moderate" voters supported him, as did 8 out of 10 independents, according to the poll.

Reedsworth plans to caucus with the Conservatives, although he has vowed to remain "independent in spirit" while in the Senate.

"I will not be beholden to any political party. I will not let any other politician tell me what to do. I will stand up for the people of Trinton at all costs," he said.

His election is a big victory for Conservatives, who are currently dead-locked with Nationalists for control of the Senate. As it stands now, the Conservatives have 44 members, the Nationalists 45, along with 3 Democratic-Reformists and 2 Independents (counting Reedsworth).

One Senate seat is still up for grabs, and that is the seat currently held by Nationalist incumbent Jhinny Addelson of Deschire. She is facing a strong challenge from Conservative Congressman Clay Aioki. The special election for that seat is scheduled for Saturday, February 19.

Conservatives are hoping to knock off Addelson in Deschire as well, which would give both parties 45 seats each. However, Democratic-Reformist Senators Julie Wynymer of Carova and William J. Locke of Monomi, as well as Independent Niles Gilcrest of Veroche, have all committed to caucusing with the Conservatives.

Together, with Reedsworth, the Conservatives would be able to form a coalition with the two Democratic-Reformist members and the two Independent members, creating a coalition of 49 members to the Nationalists' 45, plus D-R Sen. Sheila Crouwsky of POG, or a coalition split of 49 to 46.

Control of the Senate will be uncertain until Saturday's election in Deschire, although the composition of the Senate is likely to remain largely unchanged, as the Conservatives held a one-seat majority during the 2008-2010 session. The Senate will continue in gridlock until the 2012 elections, most observers say.

"You've got two coalitions, one conservative and one liberal, and they're both almost evenly proportioned," says GNN political analyst James Madine. "Grassadellians must love gridlock, because this is the second consecutive election where we've almost perfectly split the Senate in half between the two parties. Do you think much is going to get done in the next two years? Probably not."

Poll Shows Reedsworth Leading in Trinton Run-Off Election

2011-02-13T14:21:00.000-08:00

Poll marks first time incumbent senator has not led

WILMINGTON, Trinton--A new Liberty poll released Saturday shows Conservative-turned-Independent Congressman George Reedsworth leading incumbent Nationalist Sen. Grace Kemp for the first time in the state's run-off Senate election.

The poll shows the two essentially tied, with Reedsworth leading with 51% to Kemp's 49 per cent.

Voters in Trinton will go to the polls on Tuesday for a special run-off election between the three-term incumbent Kemp and the six-term Rep. Reedsworth. The two are heading to a run-off after neither candidate reached the necessary 40 per cent threshold required under Trinton law in the general election.

In the original contest, Kemp garnered 39.6% to Reedsworth's 32.5% and Conservative candidate Randy Kalamaza's 27.9 per cent.

Now it's Reedsworth versus Kemp, and all previous polls have shown Kemp with the edge. But that appears to be changing, as Reedsworth has hit the campaign trail hard, emphasizing Kemp's lengthy history in the Senate, his strongly party-line voting record, and his intensely partisan nature.

"Grace Kemp was named the second-most liberal senator last year. And he's one of the most bitterly partisan senators. He is not independent. He is not bipartisan. He is not a uniter. He's a divider, and the people of Trinton are tired of politics as usual," Reedsworth told reporters at a campaign stop in Turnatin, southeast of Wilmington, Sunday. "The people of this state want a senator who will work with the other side to get things done, not someone who is so obsessed with being right they will impede and obstruct any kind of progress just to support their own selfish efforts."

Those are strong words from a man whose own party is hardly united behind him. Reedsworth decided to run as an independent after he was defeated by right-wing state Sen. Randy Kalamaza in the Conservative primary. Kalamaza, who lost in the three-way general election, has so far declined to endorse Reedsworth.

Sen. Kelsey Frascanio, who originally promised to support Reedsworth in the primary but then changed her mind and backed Kalamaza, is the Conservative from Trinton to publicly endorse Reedsworth in the run-off. Critics say Frascanio is trying to make amends for breaking her word during the primary, something the senator denies.

"I'm not trying to make amends. I was very clear that I supported Randy Kalamaza during the general election. And he would still have been my preferred choice. But George Reedsworth is a good man and his values are more in line with mine and the people of this state than those of Grace Kemp," Frascanio said on GNN's Capitol Report.

Sen. Kit McHenry (C-VER), who heads the Conservative Senate Campaign Committee (CSCC), last week pledged to support Reedsworth in the run-off, despite any past tensions during the primary.

"George Reedsworth is a Conservative and he is the best candidate to represent Trinton in the Senate. And he will have the full backing of the CSCC," McHenry told the GBC's Gene Caughley.

Reedsworth welcomed the lukewarm support from his former party on Sunday, telling local media that he is "touched" to have the support of Frascanio and McHenry and other national leaders. But he also stressed his campaign is not about political affiliation but about a common ideology.

"It's nice to have their support but the people supporting me are not just Conservatives. The people behind this campaign are Conservatives, independents, and concerned Nationalists that believe Grace Kemp has been in office too long and needs to go. There are people from every political party and persuasion that are longing for change and I don't think either party has a monopoly on change," the congressman said.

As for the favorable poll results showing him leading, the Reedsworth campaign brushed it off, telling the NPF the congressman is "campaigning as if he's behind by twenty points."

"We've never taken this election for granted and we never will," campaign spokesman Cory Martin said.

The Kemp campaign dismissed the poll and Reedsworth's comments, saying the congressman, who has already previously ran for Senate twice in the past, "will do or say anything to get elected."

"George Reedsworth is traveling around this state trashing Grace Kemp and it's all because he has no ideas and no vision for this state," campaign spokeswoman Mary Nam said. "Attacking Grace Kemp is not a solution, it's a cheap campaign trick.

"The people of Trinton recognize that Grace Kemp has delivered for our state and is best-prepared to lead us during these difficult times," Nam continued.

Kemp himself was campaigning in Tornboro in the northeastern part of the state, Sunday. In order to win, the senator must have strong support from the northern liberal stronghold of Tornboro and the northern sections of Wilmington.

The Reedsworth campaign is focusing on the southern and much more conservative part of the state, where high voter turn-out there could push the congressman over the edge.

Passengers Sit on Tarmac for More Than an Hour

2011-02-12T00:19:00.000-08:00

Airline apologizes for inconvenience, refunds tickets

LAVINGTON, Veroche--More than 160 passengers aboard a Swiss Air flight were forced to sit on the tarmac for more than an hour Friday afternoon.

Passengers aboard Christon-bound flight 190 were not allowed to leave the plane while it sat on the tarmac at Lavington International Airport, as the pilot and maintenance crews inspected the plane's wheels and hydraulic system.

A spokeswoman for Swiss Air told the NPF it is standard company policy to keep all passengers on board the plane if a maintenance problem emerges after the plane has already been boarded. The pilot and flight crew acted in accordance with company policy, she said.

But passengers say they should have been allowed to leave the plane and go back to the terminal.

"It's very frustrating when you rush to catch a flight and then you just sit there immobile for an hour and you can't move or go anywhere," one passenger told the NPF.

The National Aviation Authority (NAA) made clear that government rules do not require airlines to hold passengers on flights, except in extreme cases of suspected terrorism or criminal activity.

"There is nothing in our policy that requires airlines or pilots to necessitate the forced witholding of passengers on a plane while on the tarmac during inspection," spokesman Chris Wingle told the NPF.

A spokesman for Lavington International Airport said the mid-sized facility also does not have a policy requiring passengers to stay on the tarmac.

"This was a decision totally up to the airline," Josh Hammil said.

While on the tarmac, passengers were given food and water, and were allowed to use their cell phones and other electronics.

The airline has since apologized and given customers full refunds.

"It was never our intention to inconvenience our passengers. Our flight crew followed company policy, which is in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all Swiss Air customers," a spokeswoman said in a statement to the media.

The NAA is investigating the incident.

Daybold to Replace Johnson as Host of National News

2011-02-12T00:01:00.000-08:00

Network to reshape evening news program

GRASSADELLIA CITY--Longtime GNN newsman Alan Daybold will replace Fred Johnson as host of GNN's National News program.

The network made the announcement Thursday, after it was revealed earlier this week Johnson's contract was not renewed back in January.

In a statement, the network announced it is "looking to take a new direction" with National News and that Johnson had "served GNN and his viewers honorably."

The terms of Daybold's contract have not been released. He has worked for GNN since 1996 and before that worked for the GBC.

Johnson, the popular American who became the first foreign-born person to host a major evening news television program in Grassadellian history, was not available for comment.

His publicist, Jon Docieman, also declined to comment.

It's uncertain what Johnson's future plans are. There is some speculation the anchor, who holds dual citizenship, may return to the United States. It's possible he may also relocate to England, where his wife Marsha, is originally from.

The couple currently reside in Grassadellia City with their two sons. They also own an expansive waterfront estate in East Hill, Armana. There has been no sign the couple intend to sell either residence.

Daybold is scheduled to take over the newscast on March 1st. In the meantime, Awakening A Nation anchors Michael Micardi, Susie Michellen, Leah Chang and Katie Ann Pierce will rotate as fill-ins.

Blankenship: 'No Regrets' About Failed Senate Re-Election Bid

2011-02-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

Outspoken former senator says she'd 'do it all over again'

LANDASTON, Veroche--Former Sen. Evelynn Blankenship said she has "no regrets" about her failed Senate re-election bid.

The outspoken Conservative made the comments on the GBC's Weekend Glance program, telling substitute host Ed McCulvie she would "do it all over again."

"I wouldn't change one bit of my campaign, Ed," Blankenship said. "We ran a campaign based on the honor and integrity that is expected of elected officials."

McCulvie asked specifically about the overt use of religion in her campaign, including a much-publicized incident in which the senator was prayed over by fellow parishoners at her church in suburban Landaston.

That incident, which included fellow worshipers laying hands on the senator and asking God to "deliver victory" received much criticism from Blankenship's Nationalist opponent, David Acade.

"She's a religious radical who believes this campaign is a holy war between good and evil," Veroche Nationalist Party Chairman Paul Akrod said at the time. "She literally thinks God annointed her to be senator."

Blankenship made no apologies for receiving prayer in a public manner.

"I'm an elected official. I should have people praying for me...praying that I will make the right decisions that honor God and our country," she told McCulvie.

"I'm not going to apologize for asking people to pray for me," Blankenship continued.

On the issue of being "annointed" by God to win the election, as some charged, Blankenship said she never said it was God's will for her to win.

"I never walked up there and said, 'I am going to win this race because God wants me to win it.' I never said those words. What I said was that God had annointed me to run, he had annointed me to have the opportunity to serve and to run for office. I still believe to this day that God has annointed me to be a voice for righteousness and morality in this state and in all of Grassadellia."

Critics within her party argued that the overt use of religion was a turn-off to voters and a media distraction.

"That's absurd. Religion had nothing to do with me losing. I lost because this was a change election, and because the people of Veroche wanted a change in leadership. And I respect that. But when people say we lost because I wasn't afraid to show my trust in God, I just have to disagree with that strongly.

"My faith has always played an integral role in my life, Ed. And if people are offended by that, then I'm sorry but that's not going to change. I believe what I believe and I have a relationship with the Lord and I'm not afraid to say it and I refuse to shush my beliefs because it may offend some people or jeopardize an election. One thing people know about me is that I always speak what's on my mind and I am very forthright. What you see is what you get with me. And if that's a problem for some people, well, then so be it."

As for a possible political comeback, Blankenship would not rule out another run for public office.

"I can't say that I know what I'm going to do yet, but I can't rule out a run for office yet entirely," she said. "It all comes down to what God wants and whether my husband Jim and my kids will go along with it."

Frederickson Won't Run For Governor

2011-02-06T23:31:00.000-08:00

Popular Mavocke mayor's decision a blow to Conservatives

MAVOCKE--Popular Mavocke mayor Tom Frederickson has passed on a run for governor of Roddenclanshire.

Frederickson's decision is a blow to Conservatives, who have no other viable candidates interested in the job.

The only announced candidate for the CNS is state Senator Jim Curry of Brimedaw, considered a long-shot.

Last week, Welchford Mayor Mona Rodgers, a Nationalist, announced her intention to run in the special election, which is set for March 3.

BREAKING--Envelope Containing Suspicious Powder Found At Treasury Building In Mavocke

2011-01-21T15:33:00.000-08:00

BREAKING NEWS

MAVOCKE--Treasury officials have confirmed an envelope containing a suspicious powder was found in the main office of the National Treasury Headquarters building in downtown Mavocke this afternoon.

According to Treasury spokeswoman Alissa Allencart, the envelope was discovered around 3:15 pm eastern time.

A worker noticed the envelope and immediately alerted supervisors, who contacted police.

The building was evacuated at approximately 3:20 pm. Police are on-scene and a hazardous materials unit is en route.

Many streets in the downtown core have been closed off. GNN will have continuing coverage of this breaking story.

Duschowitz 'Relieved' Election Over, Decries Campaign's Negative Tone

2011-01-14T17:54:00.000-08:00

Ousted gov says negative campaign took toll on family

BROOKINGS, BIERELAND--Outgoing Biereland Gov. Jenny Duschowitz is "relieved" the election is over.

The Conservative governor who lost her re-election bid to Nationalist San Bartholomew admits she's disappointed she lost, but told the Greene Mountain Press newspaper she's glad the election is over.

"I'm relieved it's over because this election was just extremely negative and heated, and it really took a toll on my family and myself," Duschowitz said.

The governor told the GMP even her young children started questioning her personal character and integrity when they saw negative campaign literature that attacked the governor's position on the environment, abortion, and gay marriage.

"I knew I'd had enough when I walked in the front door at home one night and my nine-year-old daughter ran up to me in tears saying she had heard all these horrible things, like I didn't care about polar bears or pregnant ladies and that I hated gay people. She had seen some videos on YouTube and all the negative ads in the mail. Even kids at school were telling her these things," Duschowitz said.

Duschowitz is no political wimp. In her first run for governor, she faced a tense general campaign against then-Brookings Mayor Steve Pottomeaux. Before that, she served as lieutenant governor and before that in Mavocke working for President Dan Byelle's communications team.

"I've seen a lot of ugliness in politics," Duschowitz told the GBC's Glenn Awell in an interview last week. "But this race takes the cake, as far as I'm concerned. I've never been the target of a campaign as heated and downright hateful as this campaign. This race was extraordinarily negative and full of attacks. And that saddens me because Biereland is not that kind of state. We pride ourselves in Biereland on having a civil, positive discourse. I feel like Biereland is better than that. And the people of Biereland lost out on this one."

The gubernatorial race in Biereland was considered the closest race in the country, and quickly became the most intense and divisive of the 2010 election cycle. Both political parties poured millions of dollars, many from out of state, into the race.

Despite serious policy differences, Duschowitz says she wishes her successor well.

"I hope San Bartholomew realizes that he works for the people of Biereland, and not for himself or the Nationalist Party or any special interest group," she said. "And I hope his governing strategy is more diplomatic and conciliatory than his campaign against me."

Gabler To Be Next Governor General

2011-01-14T17:25:00.000-08:00

Ceona governor defeats four rivals to become second female Governor General

MAVOCKE--Ceona Gov. Christine Gabler (pronounced "Gabe-ler") has been chosen to be the next Governor General.

Gabler was chosen by her fellow Nationalist governors. While the ballots are secret, it is known that Gabler tied with Veroche Gov. Linda Van Auhn in the final round of voting. The two received five votes each.

Because there was a tie, the seven NAT lieutenant governors cast votes also, resulting in a 9-8 vote in Gabler's favor.

East Deschire Gov. Lynn DeMont, Trinton Gov. Mark De Auonne and Wellington Gov. Pierre Carten also competed for the top position, but all three lost in the first round of voting.

Immediately following the final vote, Van Auhn congratulated Gabler, calling her a "sure success."

"She's a close friend and I know she'll make a great Governor General," Van Auhn told the NPF.

Gabler herself did not speak to the press following the vote. Instead, she hurried off to an intelligence briefing at Collester.

While walking out of the closed-door voting session, Gabler did tell a reporter from the NPF she is "excited" and "determined to bring strong leadership" to the Governor General's position.

Collester Press Secretary Adam Kolbert told the media President Menuhaeo is pleased with Gabler's selection.

"The President considers Christine Gabler to be a close friend and a respected colleague. He looks forward to working with her toward positive change in this country," Kolbert said.

Outgoing Governor General, Donna Almone (C-POG), also congratulated Gabler on being chosen.

"I congratulate Christine Gabler on her selection as Governor General. I wish her the best of luck," Almone said in a statement.

Gabler is the first Nationalist to hold the Governor General position in ten years. She is the second woman, after Almone, to hold the nation's fifth-highest ranking position.

Conservatives Target Wellington Governor's Race

2010-11-25T01:43:00.000-08:00

New polls show tight race between NAT incumbent, CNS challenger

STARKSMIN, Wellington--Just eight days before the midterm elections, the Conservative Governors' Association (CGA) is investing major resources in a race it once counted out.

The CGA is targeting the Wellington governor's race between incumbent Nationalist Pierre Carten and CNS challenger Craig Thoyer.

First elected in 2008 in a special election, Carten (pronounced "Car-tain"), 32, was widely popular. A moderate, the youthful Carten was viewed as one of the few Nationalists in the state that could bring compromise and civility to the often divisive political climate in Wellington.

Carten easily defeated Conservative businessman Bill Santoya in the 2008 election. Now the governor, and his lieutenant, former Rep. Joe Carlin, are facing an unexpectedly close race for re-election.

Thoyer (pronounced "Toy-er"), and his running mate Liz McKinn (C-Hollam) were not expected to present a strong challenge to the once-popular Carten/Carlin ticket. But recent polls suggest the businessman and state senator team are edging closer.

A Prairie Stats poll released last Thursday shows Thoyer and McKinn with 45% to 47% for Carten and Carlin. A NationVoice poll released Monday shows Thoyer trailing Carten by three points.

Those close poll numbers have emboldened Conservative Party leaders, who previously brushed off a Thoyer victory as impossible. The party is now taking a second look and has already dropped $300,000 of additional money into the race, with an another money bomb of $450,000 to $500,000 possible.

It's all apart of the party's strategy to maintain its majority of governors' seats.

"The race in Wellington is crucial to us and we need to do everything we can to ensure that a victory comes out of the prairie state," Gov. Donna Almone (C-POG), head of the CGA, told the National Press Federation (NPF).

But Nationalists are scrambling to defend Carten, whose popularity has plummeted largely due to Wellington's poor economy and high unemployment rate.

The party has allocated an extra $480,000 to help defend Carten, and has dispatched East Deschire Gov. Lynn DeMont and Trinton Gov. Mark De Auonne to campaign for the beleaguered incumbent in the final week of the election.

The two candidates themselves seem confident.

Last week at a press conference at a sandwich bistro in Lunden Plains, Carten told supporters Conservatives "cannot take away the progress we've made," and warned of a possible over-confidence within the Thoyer campaign.

"These guys are so desperate to be elected, I think they're really over-selling themselves and maybe a little too confident," Carten said.

Unsurprisingly, Thoyer's campaign sees it differently.

"All the polls show this race tightening, with Pierre Carten falling out of the lead and Craig Thoyer headed to victory," campaign spokesman Jay Donahue said. "Election day will tell the final chapter in this race."

Both candidates are tirelessly hitting the campaign trail, with the governor targeting the western and southern parts of the state in the final days. Thoyer will be focusing his attention on the suburbs of Starksmin, the state's largest city, and in the eastern part of the state.

Almone Will Not Seek Second Term As Chair of Governors' Board

2010-11-23T17:52:00.000-08:00

POG gov. says she wants to spend more time in her home state

LANSDALE, Province of Grassadellia--Regardless of which party wins a majority of governorships after the December 4 elections, there will be a new Chair of the Governors' Board.

Current chair, Gov. Donna Almone (C-POG), announced Tuesday she will not seek a second term as chair if the Conservative Party maintains its majority of governorships.

Almone said she will be stepping down regardless of the outcome of the elections because she wants to spend more time in her state.

"It has been an honor to serve as chair, but it's a huge responsibility and a huge time commitment," Almone said at a press conference at the capitol. "[Over] the last two years, I have spent a great deal of time outside of POG tending to national matters in my capacity as chair, and I feel that, for my second term, if I am re-elected [as governor of POG], I would like to spend more time here in POG."

Almone added that the recent loss of her husband of 31 years, Bill, played a part in her decision.

"I've been through a lot in my professional life and in my personal life lately, and I think it would be best for me to re-focus my attention solely to the state of POG," she said. "I want to stay here where I'm surrounded by friends and family as opposed to a busy traveling schedule."

Almone's announcement set off a buzz Tuesday, as political analysts speculated about possible successors. The most-mentioned names on the Conservative side are Damoign Gov. Sid Hoffa and Armana Gov. Dale Fulbright.

Several names have been thrown out for the NAT, including current chair of the Nationalist Governors' Association (NATGA) Gov. Lynn DeMont (E. Deschire), as well as Ceona Gov. Christine Gabler, Trinton Gov. Mark De Auonne and Veroche Gov. Linda Van Auhn.

The Chair of the Governors' Board, often simply called the "Governor General," is chosen based on which party holds a majority of the nation's 19 governorships. Then, the governors of the majority party elect their leader.

If both parties evenly split the number of governorships, the majority is given to the party which holds the majority in the Federal Senate.

Currently, there are nine Nationalist and nine Conservative governors. Because the Conservative Party holds a one-seat majority in the Senate, a CNS governor was chosen to serve as Governor General.

There are only 18 governorships in the current session because the newly-created state of Ansleigha is not factored in. In the 2010 session, Ansleigha's addition will mean a 19-member governors' board, making an outright tie between the parties impossible, unless a third party candidate wins, in which case the balance of power would once again fall to which party has the majority in the Senate.

Donna Almone has served as Governor General since January 2008. She is the first female Governor General in Grassadellian history.

Administration Eyes Uninhabited Island For Future Immigration Detention Site

2010-11-09T13:29:00.000-08:00

Menuhaeo administration sees Gerber Island as detention site

MAVOCKE--A small island off the coast of Damoign may be a viable location for an immigration detention center, according to National Security Secretary Michelle Gates.

Gerber Island, a Grassadellian territory about 130 miles northwest of Harvannah and about 210 miles off the mainland coast, is being seen as a prospective location for an immigration detention facility. If built, the facility would temporarily house "dangerous persons seeking to enter the country," many of whom are on the federal government's "no-fly" list, until they are deported back to their home countries.

Gates told the NPF Tuesday the island would house only people who are "extremely dangerous," and are actively trying to "smuggle their way into the country."

"The people that will be housed at this facility, if it is built, are people that are extremely dangerous and threaten the security and safety of our country," Gates said. "These are individuals who have known terrorist connections, or who have a history of violent or widespread crime in Grassadellia and surrounding allied nations."

The island is currently uninhabitated, although government activity has been ongoing on the island for decades.

The federal government has been seeking to construct an immigration detention center for years, but has lacked a location and at times, support in Congress.

If the facility is given the go-ahead by Congress and President Brenton Menuhaeo, it would house approximately 50 to 100 detainees, with the possibility of adding on to the facility if conditions merit additional room.

"Gerber Island is a suitable location geologically, because it is a stable island and sits on solid ground as opposed to wetlands or marsh," Environmental Affairs Secretary Steven McIntosh told the NPF.

Gates said the island is ideal because located within Grassadellian waters, and is large enough to house the facility, staff housing, and a water port and air strip.

But critics warn the island could become the next Guantanamo Bay, and could be used by the government as a prison used for illegal detention of immigrants and other persons.

Sen. Dick Ammons (C-HVN) told the GBC he is skeptical the island will be used simply as a detention site for legitimate persons of reasonable suspicion.

"What I'm concerned about is possible abuses of this system," Ammons said. "This could really be an open door to corruption and abuse of prisoners and illegal detentions."

Sen. Victoria Albright (C-CEA), who chairs the Senate National Security Committee, said she cautiously supports the proposal, but wants to have further inquiries done before bringing it up for a vote in the committee.

"I, personally, support the construction of a site, because we need something to deal with these sorts of people who are seeking entry into the country," Albright told GNN. "But we need to have more hearings, more expert testimony, and we need some form of strict oversight that will help keep the light shined on this program."

The Grassadellian Human Rights Council (GHRC) has already protested the proposal, and says it will mobilize its supporters to oppose the project as well.

"This will rapidly turn into an outright abuse and denial of basic human rights," said Martha Ann Calloway, president of the GHRC. "The notion that the Grassadellian government will build something that is basically equivalent to Guantanamo Bay in Cuba is outrageous."

Sen. Grace Kemp (N-TRI), who is up for re-election this year, is adamantly opposed to the project.

"Are we really going to let our government detain people and hold them in a prison cell just like George Bush did with Guantanamo? If our government does this, we are going to lose all respect in the international community," Kemp said in a recent appearance on GNN's Talking Points cable program.

Immigration groups are split on the issue. The Beacon Foundation, which supports less restricted immigration, has condemned the idea of a detention site, calling the project "offensive even in the proposal stages."

But the National Center for Responsible Immigration Policies (NCRIP), a group that advocates more restricted immigration, has called the idea "good," but cautions more information is needed before a decision can be reached.

"We feel very strongly that our country needs a facility where dangerous immigrants that threaten national security can reside temporarily," says Beth Iandman, a spokeswoman for NCRIP. "But there are a lot of things that need to be ironed out before this project gets our OK."

Public Lands Secretary Tom Etheridge and Attorney General John Huuvanna are working jointly with Secretaries Gates and McIntosh on the proposal. It's unclear, as of now, who any co-sponsors in the bodies may be.

Rep. Clay Aioki (C-DES), who chairs the National Assembly's Immigration and Entry Committee, says his committee will hold hearings on the matter in the next two weeks.

Corbev Staves Off Doonan In Close Senate Primary

2010-10-29T15:54:00.000-07:00

Incumbent senator eeks out a victory over far-right challenger

HEYDWORTH, MONOMI--Incumbent Conservative Sen. Anna Corbev narrowly staved off a strong challenge from ultra-conservative Rep. Pete Doonan (C-Teedra) during Tuesday night's primary election.

Corbev, who had the backing of former Vice President Liz Martinez and retiring Sen. Debra York (C-MON), was long considered safe for re-election, until a few weeks ago, when Doonan surged in the polls, bringing the race to a dead heat.

But the latest tally from the Monomi Secretary of State's office shows Corbev leading Doonan 51.10% to 49%, with only a few thousand ballots left to be counted. That means Corbev will almost certainly come out ahead when the final count is certified on November 17.

The usually mellow Corbev claimed victory on election night in a passionate speech, asking supporters to give her six more years in the Senate.

"Let me tell you something," Corbev said. "I have never stopped advocating for you in the Senate, and if you give me the honor of returning to Mavocke, I will continue the fight, day in, day out."

Doonan refused to concede on election night.

"The outcome is probably very unlikely to be known tonight or for the next couple days," Doonan said at a press conference in Teedra.

The congressman finally conceded Friday morning, though he declined to endorse the incumbent.

Corbev will go on to face Nationalist Brad Fiordora in the general election.

In Monomi's other Senate race, Conservative Congresswoman Cathy De Beers (Monomi City) defeated Heydworth Congressman and former Senate nominee Rill Stevens for a shot at retiring Senator York's seat.

Secretary of State Sharon Dimaggio said the latest count shows De Beers beating Stevens by a margin of about 54%-45%.

Stevens and De Beers made an agreement last month to endorse the winner.

De Beers will face NAT Rep. Debbie Azano in the general election.

Senator Corbev Fights For Political Life In Monomi Primary Race

2010-10-18T23:56:00.000-07:00

Contentious primary battle pits moderates against hard-liners

HEYDWORTH, MONOMI--In just eight days, Monomi Conservatives will go to the polls to nominate their candidate for the Federal Senate. Next Tuesday will bring the end to a bitter primary race between incumbent Sen. Anna Corbev and the more conservative Rep. Pete Doonan (Teedra).

The close race is dividing Monomi's once-unified Conservative Party. Three months ago, the race was not even thought to be close. But now, with multiple polls showing Corbev and Doonan running even, the expected outcome is even more uncertain.

The most recent poll by Insiders shows Corbev leading Doonan 46% to 45 per cent, with the remaining 9 per cent undecided.

That's very similar to polls commissioned by the campaigns. A Lotus poll, conducted for the Corbev campaign, shows Corbev leading 48% to Doonan's 46%. A poll conducted for Doonan's campaign by Mercury Polling Firm shows Corbev leading 42% to 41% with 17% uncommitted.

The close nature of the race has only worsened the divide between the candidates, their supporters, and other prominent members of the CNS who are taking sides.

Corbev, who has exhibited a more moderate voting record in recent months, is endorsed by former Vice President and Monomi governor Elizabeth Martinez. She also has the blessing of her close friend in the Senate, out-going Sen. Debra York.

Doonan, who previously ran for the Senate in 2008 but ultimately lost to Nathan Lister (NAT), has the support of more hard-line Conservatives, including Devanough Mayor Sharon Osmorda and Secretary of State Sharon Dimaggio.

All members of Monomi's delegation to the National Assembly have declined to endorse either candidate, with most saying they refuse to take sides.

"When [the Conservative Party] has an opportunity like this, to take back the governor's mansion and take control of Monomi's Senate seats, why are we attacking each other?" Rep. Brooke Burnstein (Heydworth) told GNN News.

Monomi's other Senate primary race, between Reps. Cathy De Beers and Rill Stevens, is also becoming increasingly contentious. However, De Beers and Stevens seem to be more friendly toward one another.

"Rill and I disagree on the issues, but we respect one another and we recognize that we both have our dignity and that's something that should stay in the race," De Beers told the NPF.

But the Corbev-Doonan race has become downright nasty, with Doonan accusing Corbev of "selling out" to liberals after she voted for the bipartisan economic stimulus bill and voted to confirm Olivia Lisbet, President Menuhaeo's controversial nominee for Deputy Secretary of Defense.

Doonan also hit Corbev for voting to confirm Eric Alnon, a former deputy superintendent of Treeton Public Schools, who was nominated by the president to serve as Deputy Secretary of the Department of Education. Many Conservatives--including Ceona Sen. Megan Sellious, a former Secretary of Education--viewed Alnon as inexperienced for the job.

"Anna Corbev voted for Eric Alnon purely for political reasons. She thought voting for a native son would win her points with the voters back home," Doonan told the Treeton Sun. "And it probably did make people's opinions of her go higher. But the man wasn't qualified for the job, plain and simple. You don't just vote for someone because they happen to be from your home state."

Corbev dismisses the criticism, telling the NPF she voted to confirm Alnon because she felt having a native Monomian in the President's Cabinet would benefit the state.

"Any time you have the President come knocking on your door, wanting to pick someone from your own backyard, that's a big deal," the senator said. "Monomi now has a strong advocate for our state's kids at the table in the President's conference room."

"That was so long ago, I'm not even sure why he's bringing it up," Corbev added.

The Senator also touts her accomplishments, including her co-sponsorship of a bill that increased wheat subsidies for Monomi farmers, a bill that prohibits Grassadellian companies from doing business with the Iranian government or blacklisted Iranian companies, and an appropriation for additional funding for government-sponsored television ads that promote positive parenting.

Doonan downplays the Senator's self-proclaimed "achievements."

"If all she can accomplish in six years is a few farm subsidies, then that's pretty sad," the congressman told reporters in Teedra Sunday.

Corbev accuses Doonan of ignoring her accomplishments and focusing on her perceived failures.

"What he's doing is he's selectively berry-picking these pieces of legislation that I've supported, the presidential nominees I've voted for, and he's trying to write my legislative biography with those very selectively-chosen votes," Corbev told the NPF.

For Corbev supporters, seeing the Senator's record nit-picked is frustrating.

"Anna Corbev has stood up for Monomi and has been one of the loudest voices for change and reform in the Senate," State Rep. Claya Diacrosse (C-East Hanlenberg) told the Sun. "To see her face so much artillery fire, especially from other Conservatives, that's extremely disappointing."

The harsh rhetoric is proof the race is not just uncivil, but also uncertain. With the candidates running neck-and-neck going into the final stretch of the primary campaign, both sides are jam-packing the candidates' schedules with campaign rallies with prominent supporters.

Former Vice President Martinez and Senator York are both scheduled to appear at separate rallies for Corbev next week. Doonan will hold a rally with leaders from the Grassadellian Rifle Club, the nation's largest pro-gun rights group.

The primary election is set for next Tuesday, October 26th.

Duschowitz, Bartholomew Locked In Dead-Heat Race For BIE Governor

2010-10-11T14:47:00.000-07:00

Biereland is the pivotal state to watch in this year's elections

BROOKINGS, BIERELAND--Incumbent Governor Jenny Duschowitz (CNS) is facing an increasingly uphill battle against an insurgent NAT opponent in the state's gubernatorial race.

Duschowitz, who succeeded former Gov. Peter Kosevich (CNS) in 2008 in a special election, is still lagging in the polls against Nationalist San Bartholomew, a former Otterbein County Commissioner. The latest poll from Insiders showed Duschowitz trailing Bartholomew 49% to 51 per cent, a statistical dead-heat.

The governor, who onced enjoyed high approval ratings, has lost support in part because of the struggling economy in Biereland. She also took a hit in approval when she engaged in a bureaucratic battle with the Federal Bureau of Transportation Safety (FBTS) and the Biereland Transportation Department (BTD) over an investigation into the safety of the Brookings-Sebotnee Rail system, also known as "Bro-Seb".

But Duschowitz is beloved by conservatives for her hard-line position against tax increases and her staunch commitment to fixing the state budget. She was widely praised by her fellow Conservatives for refusing to attend the climate talks in Copenhagen, Denmark back in December 2009, because she said the state could not afford to send her on an expensive trip in the midst of a budget crisis.

"My husband Todd and I, every month, we sit down at the kitchen table and look at our family budget and see if we can go on a trip or a vacation. If we can afford it, we do. If we can't, then we stay home. I take that same approach as governor to the state budget. Our budget is in shambles. The state can't afford to send me to Copenhagen, so I'm not going. I'm staying right here," Duschowitz was quoted as saying at a press conference.

Bartholomew and other Nationalists criticized Duschowitz's decision to skip the climate change conference, saying she used the budget problem as an excuse to skip the event.

"I would think our planet's imperiled future would be worth investing in, but not when you're Jenny Duschowitz and you're trying to appeal to the conservative, climate change skeptic crowd," Bartholomew told the Liberal-Union newspaper of Welhausen.

Bartholomew's rise has been attributed to Duschowitz's dismal approval ratings as well as the "anti-incumbent" sentiment that is sweeping the nation, including Biereland. The 2010 elections may bring a first for Biereland: a Nationalist governor, lieutenant governor, and an NAT majority in the state's Senate delegation simultaneously, says Dr. Hans Anders, a political science professor at the University of Biereland--Brookings.

"Bierelanders are very much so in a mood for change, and that may mean the state could turn blue this election for the first time," Anders said.

Anders also points to Bartholomew's strong support from the environmental community, which may help boost his chances.

"Biereland is a beautiful, pristine state. The people here love their state and love the woodlands and mountains and the valleys and all the natural, untamed land. They want to protect their resources, and San Bartholomew really has the edge on environmental issues," Anders said.

Bartholomew supporters also believe Duschowitz's failure to fix the budget--the state legislature is at a standstill over the proposed cuts--will hurt the incumbent.

"Jenny Duschowitz has been in for two years. And what has happened? The budget has gone from bad to worse," Bartholomew campaign manager Tom Murann told the NPF.

But Duschowitz's campaign is pushing back, telling the GBC the budget stand-off is close to an end, and legislators are working on a compromise. However, the governor will not raise taxes to fix the budget, her office said.

"Governor Duschowitz is committed to fixing the budget...but she will not raise taxes to do so," spokeswoman Mary Todd told the NPF.

Duschowitz's admirers acknowledge that cuts to the state budget may be necessary, but the governor will at least have brought the budget back into the black.

"Governor Duschowitz inherited a mess, and that was the Brenton Menuhaeo-Shay Robertson economy. She was put in a difficult position, but she will keep us out of the red," Don Dollimer, a spokesperson for the Biereland Conservative Party told STAR News.

The Duschowitz campaign is also trying to paint Bartholomew as an extreme liberal unfit to be governor.

"San Bartholomew is a liberal masquerading as a moderate," campaign spokesman Jared Moiner told GNN. "If he's elected, we'll see taxes, taxes, taxes, and radical environmental legislation that will take away property owners' rights, and even radical social experiments, such as legalizing marijuana. That's not the kind of person Biereland needs."

While polls show a neck-and-neck race, poll results also indicate voters are not sold on either candidate.

"What I'm seeing in most of my polling is that voters don't really approve of Jenny Duschowitz and the way things are going right now. But they also aren't enchanted with the idea of San Bartholomew being governor either," said Scott Tipeo, the pollster who conducted the Insiders poll.

The polls also show that most voters like Duschowitz personally, while Bartholomew is not viewed as favorably. Respondents also incidated a distaste for the negative campaign ads that have been airing non-stop in the state since the race began.

For both parties, the ugly nature of the campaigns is a reality: Biereland is an important state. Why? Because whichever party wins the governorship in Biereland will likely win a majority of seats on the Governors' Board, which both parties are striving for.

"Biereland is a prime pick-up opportunity for our party and we are going to go after it with everything we've got," Gov. Lynn DeMont (N-East Deschire), head of the Nationalist Governors' Association (NATGA), told the NPF.

DeMont's CNS counterpart, POG Gov. Donna Almone, who is taking an indefinite amount of time off following her husband's death, told the GBC last week that the Conservative Party will "fight with every ounce of strength we've got" to hold on to the governor's seat in Biereland.

Almone is the current Chair of the Governors' Board, and concurrently serves as head of the Conservative Governor's Association (CGA).
Campaign records show Duschowitz has raised $6.4 million for her campaign, while Bartholomew has brought in $6.8 million.

Governor's Husand Loses Battle With Multiple Sclerosis

2010-10-10T01:22:00.000-07:00

Bill Almone died just weeks before his wife's re-election bid

NEW DUBLIN, POG--The husband of POG Governor Donna Almone has died, a family spokesperson said Saturday.

William Cohen Almone died at the couple's farm house in central Province of Grassadellia after a long battle with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). He was 62 years old.

Governor Almone was at the farm house at the time of her husband's death, but has since flown back to the governor's mansion in Lansdale, according to spokeswoman Ann Croft.

Diagnosed with MS at the age of 29, Almone's health had been declining for months, and in recent weeks, he had been staying at the couple's farm house permanently, with a full-time staff of nurses attending to him while his wife stayed on the campaign trail.

The couple had no children, but extended family members were staying with Mr. Almone during his final weeks. The governor also regularly flew back to the farm house to be with her ailing husband, Croft said.

"The past few weeks have been very difficult for Governor Almone and her family. She has tried to balance a busy campaign schedule and her responsibilities as governor with spending time with her husband. She feels exhausted and emotionally drained. The family seeks privacy during this difficult time," Croft told reporters.

Almone met his wife, then-Donna Bratson, when he was just 26 years old, working as an engineer at an airplane factory in Jacquae. Bratson also worked as an engineer there and later moved into management before entering politics. The two were married on April 7, 1974 in Perrins.

In 1976, the couple moved to the town of Jansen, southwest of Knoxbury. Donna Almone then ran for mayor of Jansen, and later the state House and Senate. In 1994, Donna Almone ran for Attorney General and won, serving two terms. She then went into the private sector until 2006, when she ran for governor and won.

During that time, Bill Almone worked a variety of jobs, mostly at engineering and architecture firms.

With just eight weeks to go before the December 4 election, Almone and her Lt. Gov. Beth Lanman-Trau are facing an increasingly difficult challenge from Nationalist candidates June Vivarte of Kingham and Jean Kane of Lansdale.

Spokeswoman Ann Croft said the governor will take several days off from the campaign trail, but did not specify exactly how many days.

Croft confirmed Lanman-Trau will likely take Almone's place at some campaign events over the coming days.

The campaign of June Vivarte and Jean Kane released a written statement Saturday, calling Bill Almone "a shining emblem of citizenship" and a "true example of what it means to be a Province of Grassadellian."

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the governor and her family. This comes at a difficult time and we sincerely wish the governor well during this tough time," the statement read.

King Backs Jandon Over Kinsley In NAT Primary

2010-10-10T00:34:00.000-07:00

Recalled governor says refusal to endorse Kinsley is 'nothing personal'

TREETON--Former Gov. Scott King Jr. (NAT) will not back his former lieutenant governor, Erica Kinsley, in the NAT primary election.

King announced Friday he is supporting Kinsley's opponent, businessman Dave Jandon (pronounced "YAN-den"), and called his former deputy "a mistake."

"Electing Erica Kinsley to a full term would be a mistake Monomi cannot afford," King said at a press conference in Treeton. "It's nothing personal, but Erica Kinsley is taking our state in the wrong direction.

"We need a new leader who will stand up for Monomi and build a stronger Monomi. That leader is Dave Jandon," King said.

The 45-year-old Jandon jumped into the race after Kinsley, who previously served as lieutenant governor until King was recalled by Monomi voters in April, assumed the governorship. Kinsley was widely criticized for her swift calls for King's resignation following allegations of corruption, which failed to produce indictments in both a federal investigation and an investigation by state Attorney General Ed Casey.

Kinsley, 35, has defended her actions, and told the Treeton Sun newspaper she "had no other alternative but to call for [King's] resignation."

Critics allege that Kinsley quickly called for King's resignation--and subsequently campaign for his removal from office--because she wanted to be governor and felt King's scandal would damage her political aspirations. Kinsley calls those allegations "unfounded."

"I did what was right for Scott King, what was right for me and the people of Monomi," she told the Sun. "I saw a governor that had lost all credibility; lost all trust, and I knew he needed to go. He wouldn't go willingly so we had to force him out.

"It was ugly, but I did what I had to do," Kinsley said.

Jandon argues it's Kinsley that has lost credibility.

"Erica Kinsley used the circumstances surrounding Scott King to her own advantage. She didn't want Scott King to ruin her chances at winning the governorship, so she figured the best and quickest way to get rid of Scott and his problems was for him to resign. And when he didn't resign, then she started siding with hard-line Conservatives and campaigned for him to be recalled.

"That shows how bad she wanted to be governor. She wanted it so bad, she was willing to throw her boss under the bus," Jandon told the Sun on Wednesday.

The race for governor seems to be centered around Kinsley's actions starting from the onset of allegations of corruption against Scott King up until the moment he was recalled. However, for Jandon, the race is about much more than the scandal that has engulfed the state's leadership for over a year.

"This isn't just about Scott King or Erica Kinsley. This race is about jobs, and putting people back to work, and getting our economy moving again. Erica Kinsley has no credibility. People don't trust her. They don't trust her as a leader. They don't trust her to bring jobs back to our state or to fix our economic climate. I'm a businessman. I have experience doing that. I know how to create jobs and how to protect them and how to foster a positive atmosphere for small businesses. I'm the only candidate in this race that can say that," Jandon told reporters outside a campaign stop in Monomi City Wednesday.

Kinsley told the GBC Thursday that Jandon is "using Scott King's misfortunes and this state's saga of unfortunate events" for his own gain.

"When bad things happen, and there's an unpleasant change of power in leadership, lots of people are lined up out the door to take your spot," Kinsley told the GBC. "They're ready to take your job and they say they can do a better job and they would have handled it differently. But they don't know what they'd do until they're in my shoes.

"Dave Jandon says he would have acted differently. He says he wouldn't have disavowed Scott King and that he would have supported the governor through this whole ordeal. But I wonder, if he was in my shoes, I wonder if he would really say that. I'm not sure he would have followed through with that. It's a lot easier to talk about what you'd do in a certain situation, until you're in that situation. You can say 'I'd do this' or 'I'd do that' but I think Dave Jandon probably would have done the same thing I did if he were in my situation," Kinsley said.

For Conservative candidate Rep. John Densy of Treeton, the bitter bickering on the NAT side is welcomed news, and is a frequent criticism of the two NAT candidates by Mr. Densy.

"While John Densy is working tirelessly to bring jobs to Monomi and fix our broken economy, Erica Kinsley and Dave Jandon are fighting with each other over the soap opera that played out in the previous administration. It's clear John Densy is actually focused on Monomi while the two Nationalist candidates are focused on their egos," spokeswoman Mary Patterson of the Densy campaign told the NPF.

Regardless of which Nationalist candidate wins the primary election, either Jandon or Kinsley will face an uphill battle against Densy. The six-term congressman from Treeton's northern suburbs leads handily in polls against both NAT candidates.

Both Jandon and Kinsley believe they can defy the polls and hold back Densy from winning. Jandon's counting on his history as a businessman, as well as the fact this is his first campaign for public office, to boost him over the longtime politician Densy.

Kinsley isn't afraid of Densy either.

"My message to the voters is that we have moved on from the Scott King nightmare that dogged our state for several months. We are now focused on bringing jobs back here to Monomi, fixing our education system, helping our environment, securing healthcare for seniors, and protecting our borders," Kinsley said

Then the newly-minted governor had one final word for Conservative opponent Densy:

"To John Densy, I say 'bring it on.'"

Prosecutor Gunned Down On His Own Door Step

2010-10-01T17:44:00.000-07:00

Police seek tips from neighbors, witnesses

BURROWSDALE, ARMANA--Residents of the Maine City suburb of Burrowsdale are on edge following the early morning assassination of a federal prosecutor in a quiet, affluent residential neighborhood.

Charlie M. O'Fallon, an assistant federal prosecuting attorney for the southern district of Armana, was gunned down this morning on the front porch of his home.

According to police, the 43-year-old O'Fallon was getting ready for work when he opened the front door to retrieve his newspaper. That's when he was struck by a single gun shot to the head, killing him instantly.

The victim's wife heard the shot, and immediately went to attend to her husband. She reportedly heard tires squealing as a vehicle fled the scene, but was unable to get a look at the get-away car.

The couple's three children were sleeping upstairs at the time of the attack and were not injured in the shooting, police said.

Emergency crews responded within minutes. Police secured the scene and began going door-to-door, asking neighbors if they'd seen anything.

One neighbor across the street from the O'Fallon home told police she saw a silver sedan with tinted windows parked outside the home but could not give a make or model for the vehicle.

Authorities say they have little information to go off of, and acknowledge that, as a prosecuting attorney trying several cases involving violent criminals, O'Fallon may have had many enemies.

"There's no doubt that Mr. O'Fallon certainly made a lot of enemies in his role as a prosecutor. This was not just a random drive-by shooting. This was an execution," Burrowsdale Police Chief Dave Sallentano told reporters.

"What makes this case even more frightening is that the victim was a public official. And the fact that this happened in broad daylight and in a relatively safe and close-knit neighborhood is particularly troubling," Sallentano said.

At the Justice Department's office in Maine City, colleagues grieved the loss of their beloved coworker and friend.

"I think I speak on behalf of this entire community of the Justice Department and the legal system here in the Maine City area when I say that Charlie O'Fallon was a good man with a passion for justice and a passion for the people he served," Federal Attorney Allan Whailer, O'Fallon's boss, told the NPF. "He loved nothing more than discovering the truth and bringing those responsible to justice."

Armana Governor Dale Fulbright's office released a statement Friday, saying it was "saddened and stunned" at the attack, and pledged the state "will not cease until those responsible are found."

"By all accounts, Charlie O'Fallon was a good and honorable man that served his state well. Whoever has done this has robbed not only the legal community of a seasoned professional, but they have robbed a wife of a husband, children of their father, and a community of a wonderful leader."

"Such violent attacks on members of the legal system will not be tolerated in this state," Fulbright's statement went on to say.

Police are still investigating. Meanwhile, added security have been assigned to the O'Fallon home.

Owen-Wilson To Debate Challengers In Nationally-Televised Debate

2010-09-29T01:47:00.000-07:00

Veteran senator to debate CNS, D-R challengers on STAR Network

REMMINGTON CITY, REMMINGTON--Incumbent Senator James Owen-Wilson (N-REM) has agreed to a nationally-televised debate between himself, Conservative challenger Mark Eisinger, and Democratic-Reformist candidate Jude Weimer.

The Owen-Wilson campaign made the announcement Monday afternoon. The Eisinger and Weimer campaigns confirmed a deal has been reached between all three campaigns.

While an official date has not been set, Jan Gerfan, spokeswoman for the Owen-Wilson campaign, told the Remmington Star newspaper the debate will likely be sometime in early November. It will be held live in Remmington City at the STAR Network's headquarters in front of 300 guests, divided evenly among the candidates.

STAR will be airing the debate live nationwide, and the Remmington Star, which is owned by Seville-Gelman, the parent company of the STAR broadcast network, will be webcasting the debate on its website.

5 Killed In Deadly Road Rage Shooting

2010-09-16T19:20:00.000-07:00

Man shot victims during traffic jam on busy freeway

WHITE CROSSING, ARMANA--Five people are dead after what police are calling the "most incredible act of violence and road rage" they've ever seen.

Armana State Police say 47-year-old Robert Marsstaff of Churchtown, Ansleigha was traveling southbound on the Shoreview Freeway in northern Armana Wednesday evening when he was forced to stop due to an accident blocking traffic a mile and a half down the road.

Cars were backed up for miles on the busy freeway while emergency crews responded to the accident scene. In the meantime, Marsstaff, who was alone in his car, became violently angry at the delay caused by the accident.

Witnesses say Marsstaff, who is 6'3" and weighs about 240 pounds, got out of his car and began screaming at passengers and drivers in adjacent cars, telling them to "move the f**k out of the way" so he could drive through the traffic jam. He also reportedly began striking vehicles and knocking out car windows with a baseball bat retrieved from his car.

Two male motorists got out of their vehicles to calm the hysterical Marsstaff, when he suddenly pulled out a gun and fired, killing the two men, a married couple in a car next to his, and a woman in another vehicle.

The shooter then fled and ran into some trees on the west side of the road, while people in other vehicles hid behind their cars for safety. Many panic-stricken motorists called 911 on their cell phones and ran to the other side of the interstate, waiting for police to arrive, who were on the scene in minutes.

A search by the Armana State Police helicopter unit ensued, with two helicopters combing the rural, heavily-wooded area Marsstaff fled into. After an hour of searching in complete darkness, police located Marsstaff, hiding in dense shrubbery. After almost three hours of negotiating, the suspect surrendered to police and was taken into custody around 11 pm Eastern time.

A 15 mile stretch of the freeway was closed while law enforcement tried to locate the suspect. Police believe the suspect suffers from severe mental illness and may have not been taking medication at the time of the violent attack.

"We don't know a lot of things at this point but what is clear is that Mr. Marsstaff is a very troubled individual possibly influenced significantly by severe mental illness that may have contributed to this alleged violent action," Bellendale County Sheriff Roy Montagne told the NPF.

Montagne went on to say the road rage attack was the worst he's seen in his 26 years in law enforcement.

"Obviously, this is a horrendous attack on the victims and on the innocence and safety of our community," he said. "I've never, ever, in my 26 years, seen anything as violent and horrible as this. And to think this all happened randomly, without any provocation. I mean, these people were innocent and they just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. It's tremendously sad," Montagne said.

Marrstaff did not make an initial court appearance today, as medical staff tried to detox his system after finding high-strength prescription drugs in his system. He will face an arraignment in the next week, the sheriff's department said.

The victims' names have not been released yet pending notification of kin. The freeway is back open, while a large make-shift memorial lies at the scene of the gruesome shooting.

Contentious Primaries Threaten To Crumble Conservative Edge In Monomi

2010-09-15T17:23:00.000-07:00

CNS now faces tough primaries in Senate races

TREETON, MONOMI--The once massive tidal wave of anti-Nationalist sentiment strongly favored the Conservative Party in Monomi--a state that is known as a battle ground between the two major parties--and the CNS appeared guaranteed strong victories in the Original State this December.

But now, victory is far from guaranteed. Incumbent Senator Anna Corbev, who enjoyed relatively high popularity ratings until recent months, is now facing a formidable primary challenge from the more conservative Rep. Pete Doonan, who formerly ran for the federal Senate in 2008, losing to Nationalist Nathan Lister.

And the state's open Senate seat, being vacated by retiring Sen. Debra York (CNS), is also now a tense battle for the Conservatives. Nationalist candidate Rep. Debbie Azano of Treeton is running unopposed, while Rep. Rylee "Rill" Stevens (C-Heydworth) and Rep. Cathy De Beers (C-Monomi City) are running in a contested Conservative primary.

Stevens, who is one of two openly gay members of Congress and is the first and to date only openly gay Conservative elected to federal office, has a moderate voting record, and previously ran for the Senate against incumbent Hanna Gorbachy (NAT) in 2008. De Beers is the decidedly more conservative candidate, and is beloved by the conservative base of the party.

Azano is undoubtedly favored in that race, which is pitting the competing moderate and deeply conservative sides of the CNS against each other.

Prior to the contentious Senate primaries, Monomi was considered a bright spot for the CNS, as anti-Nationalist sentiment heightened following the scandal and subsequent recall of former Gov. Scott King Jr.

Polls consistently show a sizeable advantage for Conservative gubernatorial candidate Rep. John Densy over incumbent Erica Kinsley (NAT), who took over following King's departure.

Kinsley herself is facing a primary from wealthy businessman Dave Jandon (pronounced "YAN-den") of Kie Outs. The latest average of polls shows Densy leading both Kinsley and Jandon, with the latter faring slightly better against the Conservative congressman than the incumbent.

Conservatives may still have the edge in the state's governor's race, but the Corbev-Doonan race as well as the Stevens-De Beers match up threaten the party's strength in the Senate contests.

Corbev was already facing a stiff challenge from Nationalist businessman Brad Fiordora.

Polling shows both Corbev and Doonan earning about the same amount of support when matched against the political newcomer Fiordora.

Barrett Beats Rochey In Close New Portsmouth Gubernatorial Primary

2010-09-15T02:21:00.000-07:00

Young state senator beats back former governor for NAT nod

YANCEYBURG, NEW PORTSMOUTH--The hotly contested gubernatorial primary race in New Portsmouth came to a close finish tonight, with a young state senator narrowly trumping a former governor.

State Sen. Michael Barrett (N-Bayler) slightly edged former Gov. Dale Rochey, who was seeking a rematch against incumbent Conservative Gov. Jacqueline Bosseau.

Rochey narrowly beat Bosseau in a 2007 special election, Bosseau then turned around and barely defeated Rochey in 2008. Now, her first full term as governor is up, and Bosseau will face the young state senator in the December general election.

New Portsmouth Secretary of State Richard Crux reported Barrett with almost 36% of the vote to Rochey's 34 per cent, with businessman Kyle Reeser of Lamsford coming in third with just over 30 per cent.

Around 10:00 pm Tuesday night, Rochey conceded to Barrett, and pledged his support.

"Michael Barrett is an up and coming star in the New Portsmouth Nationalist Party, and I look forward to working with him through the December election to beat Jacqueline Bosseau and restore Nationalist values in the governor's mansion," Rochey said at his campaign gathering in Yanceyburg.

Barrett, at his celebration in the town of Bayler, about 20 miles southwest of Yanceyburg, thanked Rochey for his gracious concession speech.

"I appreciate Governor Rochey's attitude and his devotion to the people of this state. I look forward to his insight and his help in this campaign that lies ahead," Barrett said.

Barrett, who is not well known outside of his home district, was expected to finish second after Rochey, who has high statewide name recognition and is perceived as the more viable candidate. A recent poll conducted by the Grantham Institute shows Bosseau leading Barrett 55%-45%, while similar polls have shown Bosseau and Rochey virtually tied.

Hafen, Coke Capture Senate Nominations In POG Run-Off Election

2010-09-07T20:46:00.000-07:00

Front-runners win both CNS and NAT run-off elections

LANSDALE, POG--After a long, arduous battle within both parties for their respective nominations for the state's open Senate seat, the primary race is finally over, with the front-runner candidates winning for both the CNS and NAT.

On the Conservative side, Rep. Bobby Hafen of Elridge handily surpassed his colleague, Rep. Julie Dennings (C-Westmont), by a margin of 54.72% to 45.28%, respectively.

The NAT race was even more decisive. Congresswoman Diane Coke of Wyneok soundly defeated former Lieutenant Governor George Mercott 55.72% to 44.28%, respectively.

Late Tuesday night, Dennings conceded at her victory rally in Lansdale, telling supporters "the long road is over," and wishing her opponent, Bobby Hafen, well in the general election.

"Now we must focus on the general election. We must band together to defeat Diane Coke and the liberal agenda," Dennings said.

Her concession, which was welcomed by Hafen, marked a relieving end to a bitter primary race.

"Tonight, we thank Julie Dennings for a well-fought race and a spirited campaign, and we are thankful for her full support as we look to December and the tough fight against Diane Coke that is ahead," Hafen told supporters in the suburb of North Candeho, just outside Lansdale.

Coke was also celebrating her victory in the Quad Cities, telling supporters she was "extraordinarily grateful" for the opportunity to represent the party. She also thanked Mercott for his concession.

"George Mercott is a good man who has honorably served this state for the past three decades," Coke said. "And I thank him for his integrity throughout this race, and for his commitment to our campaign for the general election."

Mercott didn't say much at his campaign party at The Blue Pelican club on Lansdale's southeast side. But he did thank supporters for their hard work and told the NPF he fully supports Coke in the general election.

"I wish her well," he said as he walked to his car outside the club.

Tuesday's results mean the general election will feature a showdown between Hafen, Coke, Democratic-Reformist businessman Dale Rochenchae, and Independent candidate Mike Indano, also a businessman.

Neither Rochenchae or Indano was available for comment on their new general election opponents.

POG Secretary of State Max Kiesling estimated voter turnout to be around 23% for Conservatives and 17% for Nationalists.

Sweeten Wins NAT Nod, Conservatives Face Run-Off In East Deschire Senate Primary

2010-09-04T01:10:00.000-07:00

NAT race finalized, CNS still hashing it out

BRIDGEWORTH, EAST DESCHIRE--Secretary of State Allison Sweeten (NAT) cruised to a victory last night in East Deschire's primary election, easily defeating her primary opponent, Hansboro businessman John Blackman by a margin of 55%-45%, respectively, in the state's open Senate race.

The Conservative side was more complicated. Businessman Mike Aventhalle of Haysworth led the pack of four contenders, garnering 26.91%, followed by Rep. Sam Pyatt (Ridgeview), who came in with 25.93 per cent. Right behind Pyatt was Jim Reebis with 25.87% and State Senate Majority Leader Gerald Ivenroe (Waverly) with 21.29 per cent.

In East Deschire, candidates must attain at least 40 per cent of the vote to advance as the party's nominee. That means Sweeten, who was favored to win the two-way race on the NAT side, will advance to the general election as the Nationalist Party's nominee.

Meanwhile, the Conservatives will head to a run-off, with front-runner Aventhalle and runner-up Pyatt facing each other in a special election two weeks from now on September 16. The winner of that contest will advance to the general election to face Sweeten.

Aventhalle is predicted to have the edge in the run-off, with many younger and independent-leaning voters supporting his candidacy. Pyatt has an advantage with older and more conservative voters, but his lengthy tenure in state and federal politics could be a turn-off to voters in an anti-establishment year.

Speaking inside a large barn on his farm in Haysworth where he resides, Mr. Aventhalle claimed victory Thursday night at his campaign party, and told supporters the fight "is only beginning."

"We had our hands full in this primary, and we still do with a run-off looming now," he said. "But come December, we will face the biggest battle: Allison Sweeten.

"And we're not afraid, are we?" Aventhalle said to a cheering crowd.

Mr. Aventhalle also brushed off criticism from fellow Conservatives, who felt he had not campaigned hard enough.

"You know, some people said we weren't working hard enough, that our hearts weren't in it and we didn't want it that bad. But I think tonight disproves that whole argument. We worked hard and we will continue working hard until we are guaranteed a seat in Mavocke," he said.

Across the state in Ridgeview, Congressman Pyatt reminded his opponent the primary race is not yet resolved.

"He seems to be claiming victory already and moving on to the general election. Well, the race is not over. You need to focus on the present, not what's way down the road," Pyatt told reporters at his campaign celebration at a downtown Ridgeview hotel.

The other two Conservatives in the race, who were eliminated in last night's primary, did not say much to the media, only thanking supporters and wishing their fellow Conservatives well in what is shaping up to be a difficult general election.

After results came in on primary night, Sen. Ivenroe immediately endorsed Pyatt. Reebis, a CPA and financial advisor from Clawfield, declined to endorse either of the two remaining candidates. However, a source close to the candidate says he is likely to back Aventhalle.

On the NAT side, John Blackman graciously conceded defeat to Allison Sweeten, and pledged his support.

"We have to focus on December now, because we have a real chance of winning a majority of East Deschire's Senate seats for the first time in history," Blackman said at his campaign party in Hansboro. "And though I wanted to win, I know Allison Sweeten is a dedicated Nationalist who loves her state and loves this country, and she will be a visionary in the Senate if she is elected, and I plan to do all I can to get her elected."

Sweeten also returned compliments to Blackman, calling him a "shining example of Nationalist values," and thanked him for his support.

"We welcome John Blackman's support and that of his supporters, because we are going to need every bit of support we can get in this race," Sweeten said to a cheering crowd at her election party in Bridgeworth.

Joining Sweeten at her party, which was held at a friend's home in Bridgeworth's swank Moss Hill neighborhood, was fellow Senate candidate Portia McLendon, who ran unopposed for the NAT nomination to challenge incumbent Sen. Roger Gzarno (CNS). Mr. Gzarno also ran unopposed in the primary.

In the state's gubernatorial race, incumbents Gov. Lynn DeMont and Lt. Gov. Laurel McEdery (NAT) ran unopposed, as did their Conservative opponents, Ken Nuenneth and Lisa Nolander.

Gilcrest Falls To O'Neil In Veroche Senate Primary

2010-08-26T12:38:00.000-07:00

Gilcrest becomes second incumbent senator to lose a primary this season

TWIN LAKES, VEROCHE--Incumbent Senator Niles Gilcrest (Conservative) has lost his party's nomination for re-election to his more conservative opponent Talley O'Neil.

With 98% of precincts reporting, Gilcrest was trailing O'Neil 53%-46%, according to Veroche Secretary of State Bridger Beckham. Some military and absentee ballots still need to be counted, but Beckham estimated only about 40,000 more, making it almost impossible for Gilcrest to surpass O'Neil's vote total.

That means Sen. Gilcrest is the second senator this election season to lose his party's nomination for re-election. Last week, Michael Kreighorn lost the NAT nomination in Biereland, and is now running as an independent. Gilcrest is considering an independent run, according to campaign staff, but has not made a final decision.

"That's something we're looking at and something the senator might want to do but it really comes down to what he wants and what his family wants," campaign spokeswoman Mary Ann Rice said.

For months, O'Neil led the much more moderate Gilcrest in polls. Teaming up with Veroche's Conservative lion, Sen. Evelynn Blankenship, who is also up for re-election this year, O'Neil attempted to oust Gilcrest and other moderate members and replace them with "true Conservatives."

In recent weeks however, Gilcrest, who has touted his moderate voting record as proof of independence, closed the gap between he and O'Neil, and political pundits were unsure what would result from Tuesday's primary election.

At around 10:00 pm Tuesday night, O'Neil claimed victory at her celebration in Lavington in east Veroche. Calling the result "close but decisive," she praised her supporters for their "strong effort" and claimed her primary win is "proof the voters of Veroche want a Conservative who will stand up for them."

Further south in Twin Lakes, the state's second-largest city, Gilcrest conceded O'Neil would likely win, but told his supporters "this is not over."

"We're not throwing in the towel just yet because we know this fight is not over," Gilcrest told his disappointed but hopeful supporters.

In Veroche's other senate election, which received less attention from the media because it was less combative, fiery incumbent Evelynn Blankenship fended off the moderate former mayor of Lake City, Richard Scholinger. With 97% of precincts reporting Tuesday night, Blankenship had 54% to Scholinger's 45 per cent.

"We're delighted and deeply humbled the people of Veroche have renominated me for a second term. I feel very blessed," a beaming Blankenship told the media outside her campaign celebration in north Lake City.

A spokesman for the Scholinger campaign said the mayor is also considering a potential independent bid in the general election, but would not comment on specifics. Veroche is one of seven states that allow candidates to file as independents if they lose the primary election.

Blankenship will now go on to face Nationalist David Acade in the general election, while O'Neil will face Neal Neeley (NAT). The Nationalists are heavily favored to win both races.

Kreighorn To Run As Independent

2010-08-23T15:35:00.000-07:00

Incumbent senator loses primary, will run as independent

AUBURNE, BIERELAND--Senator Michael Kreighorn (NAT), who narrowly lost to former Brookings Mayor Steve Pottomeaux in last week's senate primary election, will now run as an independent in the general election.

The tense primary election ended last Tuesday, when Pottomeaux narrowly beat the incumbent Kreighorn by a margin of 52%-47%, respectively. Pottomeaux, who had the backing of more liberal Nationalists, was expected to win the race against the much more moderate Kreighorn.

On Monday, Kreighorn announced at his home near Auburne he will run as an independent in the December general election. That means he will now face Pottomeaux (NAT) and Conservative candidate Robert Browning.

The three-way race, which many Nationalists fear will split the NAT vote, does not seem to worry Kreighorn.

"I believe the people of Biereland will vote for the best candidate, plain and simple," he told reporters outside his home. "That's why I'm running as an independent, because my party doesn't support me, but the voters do. I've got Nationalists, Conservatives, Democratic-Reformists, Independents...all are supporting me. People from all political parties and backgrounds are supporting my candidacy. That proves that our campaign is truly independent."

Reacting to the news, Pottomeaux did not specifically call on Kreighorn to withdraw from the race, but said, "a two-way race between me and Robert Browning would be best for the party," and added, "typically the unsuccessful candidate acknowledges the will of the people and withdraws his or herself from the race. That's just a sort of courtesy."

Not surprisingly, the Browning campaign welcomed Kreighorn's newly-independent candidacy.

"We believe that all credible candidates should be welcomed at the table, and if Senator Kreighorn feels he belongs in this race, then he should be allowed to run," Browning campaign spokesman Kyle Englehardt told the Greene Mountain Press. "Robert Browning is looking forward to debating Steve Pottomeaux and Michael Kreighorn."

Biereland Secretary of State Steven Yang confirmed to GNN that Kreighorn did file the necessary paperwork to run as an independent. Biereland is one of seven states that allow candidates to run as an independent candidate after losing a primary election.

The most recent senator who lost a primary election and then subsequently ran as an independent was Lee Schefsky, a Conservative from Carova, who lost the Conservative nomination in 2008 to then-state senator Tyler Dodd. Schefsky then filed as an independent, and the two went on to the general election to face Nationalist Ann Kocheni, who ended up winning.

A similar situation unfolded in December 2008 in Biereland's special senate election in which incumbent David Parker (NAT) was running for re-election. Parker was opposed by Conservative Driscoll Sherber and Democratic-Reformist Julie Grendhau, and while Grendhau won the first round of voting, she did not reach the necessary 45% to win. A run-off ensued between Grendhau and the underdog Sherber, and resulted in a narrow victory for Sherber.

It appears the Kreighorn-Pottomeaux-Browning race could head to a run-off like in 2008's special election. Biereland's other senate race, a rematch between Sherber and Grendhau, also is a three-way race, with the addition of D-R candidate Lylan Wyler. Many believe both races could end up in tight run-offs between the top two candidates, something both major parties want to avoid.

Thieves Nab Paintings Worth $105 Million In Grassadellia City Art Heist

2010-08-21T15:30:00.000-07:00

Metro Police and forensics looking for clues in overnight heist

GRASSADELLIA CITY--Investigators are trying to determine how a group of art thieves stole more than $105 million dollars worth of paintings from the Gallagher Art Museum in downtown Grassadellia City overnight.

The heist occurred around 2:00 am early Saturday morning at the Gallagher, which is in the heart of downtown Grassadellia City. Museum officials noticed the missing art after arriving early Saturday morning for work. Security camera footage from the museum shows four men dressed in all-black. One man was armed with an automatic assault rifle, police said.

"We do know that four men robbed the museum last night, taking five paintings in all," Chief Barry Whitemore, of the Grassadellia City Metropolitan Police (GCMP) told the media Saturday morning. "At this time we have no leads, no witnesses. This appears to have been a very well-organized, well-thought-out crime."

Museum officials have released information about the stolen works. They include: "Mailenne de la Covine" by the famed Spaniard Pablo Picasso, "The Old English Townne" by 17th century English artist William Rumbleham, "A Walk on Lake Shalemore" by the early 19th century Grassadellian artist William Covely, "Dance at the Sycamore Tree" by Bedroqueian artist Anna Fable, and "Mi Resoncita" by 1800s Spanish painter Elian Corozano. The works totaled a combined worth of more than $105 million.

"We are devastated at this huge loss," Dr. Jeffrey Zidall, director of the Gallagher said at a press conference Saturday morning. "These thieves have not only stolen priceless pieces of artwork, they have also stolen a huge piece of the culture that defines our nation."

Grassadellia City Mayor Kellan Kastol called the heist a "brazen robbery of culture and intellect," and vowed to catch the suspects.

"Let those who did this know: our city will not tolerate the theft of art that is precious to our history and our culture. You will not go unpunished," Kastol said.

The Art Association of Grassadellia (AAG) has already posted a $1.25 million reward for anyone who leads police to the suspects.

The Gallagher Museum is closed indefinitely while forensics teams comb the property for clues.

POG Senate Candidates Headed For Run-Off Elections

2010-08-18T18:34:00.000-07:00

No candidate from either party won majority in delegate race

OWENS PARK, POG--The race for Province of Grassadellia's open Senate seat is far from finalized, after no candidates from either party failed to reach a 50 per cent majority in the delegate race needed to avoid a run-off.

Tuesday marked the end of the state's delegate race, an election system that involves smaller elections in all of the state's 122 counties. If a candidate can attain 50% of the delegates up for grabs, they automatically become the nominee. But because candidates from neither side were able to reach the 50% threshold, both sides will now head to a run-off election scheduled for almost three weeks from now on September 7.

Advancing on the Conservative side are Rep. Bobby Hafen Jr. of the 19th Congressional District in central POG, and Rep. Julie Dennings of the 7th District, which covers the western suburbs of Lansdale.

The Nationalist run-off will pit Congresswoman Diane Coke of the 6th District against former Lieutenant Governor George Mercott, who slightly edged Rep. Deacon Busby (10th District) in the delegate race Tuesday night, securing the second spot in the run-off.

Only the top two candidates advance to the run-off elections.

Election night saw the candidates celebrating and reflecting on the race.

Gathered at a 'victory rally' in the town of Riggens in southeast POG, Hafen proclaimed 'momentum is on our side,' and warned supporters to 'dig in to the trenches' for the run-off.

"Julie Dennings is a formidable opponent and we need to spend the next three weeks pointing out the differences on policy and leadership styles, and the good voters of POG will decide who the best representative for our state will be," Hafen said in his victory speech.

Across town, Dennings tried to rally her troops.

"Part one is over. Now on to part two," she told a crowd of about 800 people. "Bobby Hafen and many other prominent Conservatives want you to believe he is the chosen candidate, and the decision has already been made final. It hasn't been made final yet. The voters will have their say in three weeks and until then we will keep reminding people that this race is not over. Bobby Hafen has not been annointed to represent our party. He has not been crowned the nominee yet," Dennings said.

On the other side of the state, where the three Nationalist candidates gathered in Owens Park to watch election night returns, the debate seemed more civil.

"This is a long, long race, but a very rewarding one," Coke told supporters at the La Creme Restaurant in downtown Owens Park. "Over the next three weeks, we will continue to share our message of responsibility in government, accountability, and leadership."

George Mercott thanked supporters for delivering a last-minute victory over Deacon Busby, which he attributed to his big margins of victory in western POG.

"We couldn't have won this race without the strong support we received in the western part of the state, and I thank each and every one of you for voting for me," he said. "You could have stayed home and not participated but you choice to get involved and boy, did you make a difference."

The Busby campaign tried to put a positive spin on the evening's disappointing results.

Speaking to reporters on Owens Park's northeast side, Busby acknowledged the delegate race was a 'nail biter' between he and Mercott, but expressed relief at the quality of the two remaining NAT candidates.

"Diane Coke and George Mercott are two very strong candidates, and I know that either one of them could take this seat for us and put [the NAT] on the road to a super majority in Congress," Busby told a local reporter.

After speaking to reporters, Busby declined to endorse either of his former rivals. However, anonymous sources within the campaign told the NPF Wednesday the congressman is expected to throw his support to Coke later this week.

All four candidates are now clamoring for last-minute endorsement from party figures.

Hafen has already been endorsed by 11 of POG's 15 Conservative members of Congress, including former rivals such as 1st District Rep. Fran Habries (C-Canton), Rep. Tanner Zannie (26th District), and Rep. Reuben Stykes (25th District).

Only freshman Rep. Nancy Garblake (15th District) has endorsed Dennings. Congressman Mark Rolen and businessman Terry Silvi, who both previously opposed Hafen and Dennings in the delegate race, have declined to endorse either remaining candidate.

On the NAT side, the endorsements are more evenly distributed, with Coke gaining the support of former primary opponents Reps. Paula Tulane (16th District) and Maria Adebos (4th District), and Mercott landing an endorsement from Rep. Jim Mahenas (8th District).

Congresswoman Jill Yateri, the party's Senate nominee in 2008, has yet to endorse, but friends close to her say she may possibly endorse Mercott due to a bitter disagreement with Coke during the primary battle. Her endorsement could lend liberal support to the much more moderate Mercott.

POG Secretary of State Max Kiesling (NAT) said he expects voter turn-out for the run-off elections to be around 30 per cent.

Biereland Senate Primary Turns Nasty

2010-08-12T13:17:00.000-07:00

Biereland Nationalists deeply divided over increasingly bitter primary

BROOKINGS, BIERELAND--The deeply divisive Nationalist senate primary in Biereland is putting one senator on the attack and another on the defensive.

Incumbent Sen. Michael Kreighorn, who won a special election in December 2008, is facing a primary challenge from former Brookings Mayor Steve Pottomeaux. Now Kreighorn, a moderate, is accusing a fellow Biereland senator, Conservative-turned-Nationalist Steve Kolotano, of secretly recruiting the more liberal Pottomeaux to challenge him in the primary election.

In a debate Tursday night in Cedarie, Kreighorn accused Kolotano, who is also head of the Nationalist Senate Campaign Organization (NSCO), which is in charge of the party's Senate election strategy, of going behind his back and recruiting Pottomeaux.

"I'd like to say to Steve Kolotano: if you're not happy with me and my voting record, then talk to me in person. Don't go behind my back and secretly recruit someone to run against me. And especially don't lie about it afterwards and say you had nothing to do with it," Kreighorn said.

Pottomeaux responded, saying he made the decision to run on his own will.

"The decision to run for the Senate was my decision, Mr. Kreighorn, and I made that decision because I see a lack of leadership on your part. Steve Kolotano had nothing to do with this," Pottomeaux said.

Tuesday's debate was not the first time Kreighorn accused Kolotano and Pottomeaux of back-room deal-making. Throughout the campaign, the incumbent senator has dropped accusations.

"They don't like me. They're not happy with my voting record because they think I'm too moderate. So Steve Kolotano and some other Nationalist leaders went out and met with Steve Pottomeaux and asked him, begged him, to run against me and knock me out of the race," Kreighorn told a crowd at a campaign rally in March.

From the beginning, Kolotano has denied the accusations, saying he and Pottomeaux never met to discuss the race.

However, less than two weeks ago, the Kreighorn campaign presented leaked phone records from Kolotano's office, showing the senator had 17 calls to and from Steve Pottomeaux's home and office.

Documents made public by the Biereland Nationalist Party also show Kolotano met with Pottomeaux seven times over a period of four months, before Pottomeaux announced his candidacy.

Last Friday, Kolotano justified the calls and visits as "a friendship thing."

"Steve Pottomeaux and I are friends, and we talk regularly and meet regularly to discuss our personal lives and politics in general," Kolotano told the Greene Mountain Press. "Not once did I specifically ask him to run against Michael Kreighorn, or assure him he would have the party's support. I would never turn on a fellow Nationalist and I would never lie about that," Kolotano said while walking out of his Brookings office.

Regarding the accusations from Kreighorn, Kolotano called them "completely false" and "a misunderstanding."

"I think this is an emotional race, and Senator Kreighorn, who I consider a friend, is misinterpreting the facts. He's convinced that some sinister deal took place and the fact is it just didn't happen. And I hope that he accepts that and that this race can continue to take place in a cordial, respectful manner," Kolotano told the GMP.

Both campaigns followed up Thursday. Steve Pottomeaux's campaign released the following statement:

"Michael Kreighorn's vicious accusations and attacks on Steve Pottomeaux and Senator Kolotano are completely false and untrue, and have no place in this campaign. Michael Kreighorn should apologize to both Steve Pottomeaux and Senator Kolotano and publicly denounce his campaign's tactics."

The Kreighorn campaign refused to apologize and released this statement in response:

"As each day goes by, it becomes more apparent that Steve Kolotano recruited Steve Pottomeaux to challenge Senator Kreighorn in the primary election. What's worse is the evidence continues to point to a back room, secret deal made behind the back of Senator Kreighorn, and the many lies that were made to cover it up. Fortunately, the good people of Biereland will see what is going on in the Pottomeaux campaign, and will reject his kind of dirty politics. The people of Biereland want an honest senator, not someone who plots behind a fellow Nationalist's back."

The Nationalist Senate Campaign Organization (NSCO) office had no comment on the matter.

Almone Privately Asked King To Resign

2010-08-12T12:46:00.000-07:00

POG governor asked Scott King Jr. to step down as Monomi governor at the height of the scandal

TREETON--Before he was recalled by the voters of Monomi, former Governor Scott King Jr. was asked to step down by his colleague, POG Governor Donna Almone, Chairwoman of the Governors' Board, King told the GBC Wednesday.

On Thursday, Almone confirmed to the NPF that she did ask King to resign at the onset of the scandal.

"I flew to Treeton to meet with Scott, and I was very blunt with him. I told him it would be in his own interest and in the best interest of the people of Monomi if he stepped down," Almone said.

But King refused to accept Almone's recommendation, she said.

"He told me he appreciated my concern and he knew that there was a lot going on and it could be damaging, but he wanted to stay in office. He felt that he was being ushered out by Erica Kinsley and other Nationalists who were trying to get rid of the scandal quickly during an election year, and he believed, he truly believed he was innocent," Almone said.

"I think he really thought he could ride this out and survive," she said.

King, who is boycotting local media out of anger for their coverage of his scandal and ousting, would only speak to the GBC Thursday in response to Almone's comments. He corroborated Almone's version of events, telling the GBC he refused to step down "because I was innocent, am innocent, always will be innocent."

Sources close to King's successor in the Governor's mansion, Erica Kinsley, told the Mavocke Capitol newspaper that Lt. Gov. Tom Cozier (C-CEA), Chairman of the Lieutenant Governors' Board, also made a visit to Treeton to meet with then-lieutenant governor Kinsley. The sources, who asked not to be named because they're not permitted to speak publicly, allege Cozier asked Kinsley to resign also.

A spokesperson from Kinsley's office would not comment Thursday. Cozier's office also did not return a call from GNN.

Despite being recalled back in April, Scott King is still very much in the media spotlight. He has filed a lawsuit against the state of Monomi, seeking monetary damages of $2.7 million and an overturning of state law for what he calls a "wrongful removal from office."

King says he is only suing for the amount of money the recall process cost him, and will donate all the proceeds to charity if he wins.

The former governor is also writing a book about his fall from power, and is reportedly in talks with the GBC about a possible TV show.

The GBC declined to comment, saying that all deals with the network are private until "finalized."

Curro Found Dead In Mattinow Hotel Room

2010-07-25T12:37:00.000-07:00

Few details released in rock singer's mysterious death

MATTINOW, DAMOIGN--The body of famed rock singer Charles J. Coulin, better known as "Rocky Curro," has been found in a Mattinow hotel room, according to local police.

Curro, who for years was the lead singer and guitarist of the group Yellow Fever, was found dead in his Mattinow hotel room Saturday morning. The cause of death has not been released by police, who were notified by hotel staff around 7:00 am.

"We received a call from the staff that a male had been found deceased in his hotel room, and that individual was confirmed as Mr. Curro," Police Sgt. Dave Erickson told the NPF.

Curro, who has toured by himself for the past 12 years since Yellow Fever disbanded in 1994, was in Mattinow for a concert Saturday night.

Police are releasing few details but say the singer's body was discovered by hotel staff.

Curro's manager, Phil Tomlin, declined to talk to the media.

A spokesman for Curro's record label, StraightArrow Records, told the NPF the company was "shocked and saddened" by Curro's loss.

Jerry Lynkin, president of the Grassadellian Rock and Roll Association, said in a statement the GRRA was "deeply saddened by the death of this rock and roll legend."

Curro's family has also not addressed his death yet. The singer is not married and has no children.

The singer reportedly made his home in the Madagen area, though he also owned a loft apartment in Grassadellia City and a beach house in southeastern Damoign. There is no word on if and when police may search the residences.

Curro was a member of Yellow Fever for 12 years, ever since the band was first formed in 1982. During that time, the group toured the world and played with such groups as Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones.

When the group disbanded in 1994, Curro and the four other members went into virtual obscurity. Friends say Curro started touring solo because of financial problems.

Mr. Curro has also reportedly had problems with drug and alcohol abuse in the past. In 2002, he checked into a rehab center in Remmington for a heroine addiction. And as recently as 2007, he was back at rehabilitation center in Damoign for an alcohol and cocaine addiction.

Police have refused to say if his death is related to drugs or alcohol. A medical examiner will determine the exact cause of death on Monday.

NATGA, CGA Dole Out Money To Gubernatorial Candidates

2010-07-24T13:34:00.000-07:00

Governors associations raise cash for gubernatorial prospects

DEROSA, EAST DESCHIRE--December may seem far away, but with the clock ticking until election day, political parties are ramping up their fundraising for important races.

And few have worked as tirelessly as East Deschire Governor Lynn DeMont (NAT), who is heading up the Nationalist Governors Association's (NATGA) campaign effort.

"We've got several candidates in several states that are really going to strike a chord with voters this election year," DeMont told STAR News.

And there are many strong Nationalist candidates this year. Half of all state governors' seats are up for election this year, and among those nine contests, the NAT is strongly favored to win three, and likely to win two more. The election of 2010 could be an opportunity for the NAT to re-gain a majority on the Governors' Board, which would overturn Conservative control for the past nine years.

That's why NATGA and similar organizations are doling out the campaign cash to gubernatorial hopefuls.

"There is just too much at stake here," DeMont said. "This is a battle, when you really break it down that's what it comes down to. And you have to be well-prepared for battle, strategically and monetarily."

So who are the fortunate recipients of NATGA's campaign cash? The list includes first-time candidates, such as San Bartholomew in Biereland, who is challenging first-term incumbent Jenny Duschowitz (CNS), and June Vivarte in POG, who is facing an uphill fight against popular Conservative incumbent and Chairwoman of the Governors' Board Donna Almone.

Bartholomew received almost $1 million from NATGA, while Vivarte recieved $465,000.

Other recipients include Karen DeSalle in Kalnier ($1.4 million) and Todd Pergich in Lial ($500,000).

Incumbent Wellington Governor Pierre Carten also will receive $1.6 million later this month, according to NATGA's financial records.

DeMont, who himself is up for re-election, is also taking in about $640,000, the records show.

Losing out in the money race are candidates who are unlikely to win, including Carova Governor Dan McCrae, who received a measly $140,000 from NATGA for his re-election bid, which has him pitted against Senator Sam Byelle, the former president's older brother.

Candidates in states that have not yet held their primaries, including Monomi and New Portsmouth, have also not received any money yet, although sources within NATGA say the organization is unlikely to invest much in the Monomi race, since Conservatives are likely to take over the governorship in the wake of former Governor Scott King's recall from office.

NATGA's Conservative counterpart, the Conservative Governors Association (CGA), says it has invested similarly in many races nationwide.

Almone, who concurrently holds both the chairmanship of the Governors' Board and heads up the fundraising for her party's campaign effort, told the NPF the organization will invest heavily in close races such as those in Biereland, Kalnier, and Wellington.

Records show Duschowitz, in Biereland, has received $1.4 million from the CGA, while Kalnier Governor Joe Gramma has received $680,000. Craig Thoyer, who is challenging Wellington Governor Pierre Carten, has received $456,000 to date, with more on the way, Almone said.

"These are races where we believe we can win and we will do everything we can to help our candidates there," Almone said.

The governor declined to discuss her own race against Ms. Vivarte, but added that Conservatives are hoping for pick-ups in Carova and Monomi.

Third quarter fundraising reports are not due until the end of August. Candidates must continue reporting fundraising to the Grassadellian Electoral Commission (GEC), though they do not have to make their reports public until the quarter terminates.

Wainwright Lands Big Endorsement

2010-07-24T12:51:00.000-07:00

Carova AG is locked in dead-heat Senate race

CAROVA CITY, CAROVA--Attorney General Dan Wainwright (CNS) has landed a big endorsement in his campaign for the Senate.

On Thursday, Wainwright received an endorsement from Carova's senior senator, Sam Byelle, who is vacating his Senate seat to run for governor.

Appearing at a rally in Carova City, Byelle praised Wainwright for his "exceptional leadership in the Attorney General's office," and called him a "Conservative through and through."

"Dan Wainwright is a man of conviction, honor, and integrity. He is a man of principles. And he knows that what Mavocke needs now more than ever is strong, conservative leadership that puts the people first and the politicians second," Byelle told Wainwright's supporters.

Wainwright is locked in a dead-heat race for the Senate against attorney Dan McGregor (N-Bitterman). The 38-year-old McGregor is the son of former Senator Bob McGregor, who also briefly considered running for his old seat but ultimately decided against a return to politics.

A recent poll commissioned by the Carova Statesman newspaper showed Wainwright leading 46% to McGregor's 45%, with 9% undecided. Another poll conducted for Wainwright's campaign showed him leading McGregor 42% to 38%, with a margin of error of plus or minus 4 points.

"One thing is clear: this race is going to be really close, more than likely," Political Science Professor Dr. Mark Emery of Heathfield University in Gladchestershire told GNN. "You've got a Conservative state office holder running against a Nationalist candidate that has never held a statewide office, but has name recognition through his father, and all this happening in a generally conservative state in an overwhelmingly nationalist year. It should be interesting."

In a sit-down interview with the Lorenzi Hill newspaper, Wainwright acknowledged the tough fight ahead of him.

"I know this is going to be a difficult campaign. I knew that when I jumped in, and I know it's not going to be a walk through the park," he said. "But I'm confident that when voters put my record up against Dan McGregor's, and they put my position on the issues up against his, they will put their trust and their confidence in me."

McGregor's campaign also is aware of the close nature of the contest, and told the GBC that McGregor's "numbers are only going to climb" until election day.

"These recent poll numbers prove that the same old Conservative agenda is failing in Carova, and Nationalists like Dan McGregor are going to succeed this December," spokesman Barry Lakamatee said.

Byelle's endorsement of Wainwright is big, however, considering the state's senior senator remains popular statewide. Byelle and his running mate, Dave Emser, are also favored in the gubernatorial race, consistently leading NAT incumbents Gov. Dan McCrae and Lt. Gov. Carson Latzo in the polls.

Following Byelle's glowing endorsement, Wainwright thanked the senator for his "fine stewardship" in the Senate, and hailed him as "the answer to our prayers" for a new governor.

Rep. Jim Calisto (CNS), who is running for the state's other open Senate seat, was not at the rally in Carova City. A spokeswoman said he was campaigning in eastern Carova.

Congressman's Mistress Tells All In Revealing Magazine Interview

2010-07-17T20:27:00.000-07:00

Jane Kay says Wilder knew he was risking career, reputation

GRASSADELLIA CITY--The mistress of Rep. Ron Wilder (C-DMG) spared few details of her affair with the Damoign congressman in a tell-all article for the news and culture magazine Reflection.

Jane Kay told Reflection reporter Kristin Griffith that Wilder, a 16-term congressman from the southern suburbs of Grassadellia City, "knew he was risking it all," and that he liked the risk involved.

"He knew there was a huge risk to his career and his family, but he kind of liked that risk," Kay said. "It was more fun that way, more of a high-stakes game."

The 39-year-old real estate broker from Grassadellia City also told the magazine she knew the 62-year-old Wilder was married to his wife of 38 years, Cherrie, but felt "trapped."

"I knew after I started to get to know him that he was married, and I suspected it from the beginning. But, I felt trapped and felt like, 'there is no way I can get out of this relationship safely without causing some pain,'" Kay said.

Wilder also said he didn't care about his wife Cherrie anymore, according to Kay.

"He said, 'you know, [Cherrie] is boring, she's angry, we fight all the time, we don't love each other anymore, and I just don't care about her anymore, I'm moving on with my life," Kay said.

Ms. Kay was equally open about her sex encounters with the congressman, which she described as "exhilarating;" telling reporter Kristin Griffith the couple had sex "at least 15 times" over a period of 18 months.

On one occasion at a posh hotel in Grassadellia City, they got caught in the act, Kay said.

"We were making love and all of a sudden, the door to the hotel room opens and this maid comes in, and she was speaking a different language, and Ron yelled at her and told her to get out and she did. Fortunately she probably didn't know who he was and she couldn't speak English so we were safe for the time being," she said.

The affair became public in April when Kay called the Grassadellia City Times; something she did, she says, because she wanted people to know the truth.

"It was obvious to me that Ron Wilder was a very different man when he was in Mavocke and putting on the congressman show than when he was with me or with his family," Kay said. "In public, he's the 'good guy' type and the nice politician. In private, he's the selfish, greedy, angry man that's hiding behind that suit and tie.

"I saw the way he treated his wife and his kids and me and I thought, 'this has got to stop," Kay said.

Kay originally told the Times Wilder verbally abused her regularly, and tried to choke her on one occasion. She has since backed away from the physical abuse claim, saying it was instead "an aggressive sexual act that was consentual."

Wilder acknowledged the affair with Ms. Kay, but has denied Kay's allegations of verbal and physical abuse, calling them "made up."

"I admit to being unfaithful to my spouse, but I don't admit to being an abuser or a wife hater," Wilder told the Damoign Union-Assembly newspaper.

Three days later, in a written statement, Wilder said:

"I love Cherrie and always have and always will. We are going through a difficult time in our relationship and are trying to find a solution. I have not been the kind of husband and father I should be. My actions have been hurtful and disruptive to my family, friends, and supporters, and I deeply apologize for my behavior, and ask for understanding and grace during this difficult time. I also ask Jane Kay to cease the parade of media interviews she's been engaging in. The rumors, gossip, and outright lies she has been propagating on television and in the print media are only inflaming the pain my family and I are going through. This is a difficult time for our family, and Cherrie and I both ask for our privacy to be respected."

Wilder's lawyers declined to comment on Ms. Kay's latest media appearance in Reflection.

So far, the congressman says he plans to run for re-election, despite calls from within his own party for him to resign or retire.

Rep. Wilder is the second Conservative politician to be rocked by an extramarital affair in recent months. Senator Driscoll Sherber of Biereland admitted in June 2009 to having an affair with a Senate staffer. He is also up for re-election this December.