Congresswoman Calls Colleague's Campaign Ad 'Sexist'

Rep. Jay Burns (C-DES) should apologize to opponent for airing 'demeaning' ad, female colleague says

DEROSA, EDS--Congressman Jay Burns (C-DES), who is running for the House of Delegates, is coming under fire from a fellow colleague.

East Deschire congresswoman Debra Nate (NAT) criticized the Burns' ad, which attacks his NAT opponent, state senator Trish Potter (NAT) for membership in a "radical, anti-Grassadellan feminist group in the 1960s."

In an interview with local news media Wednesday, Rep. Nate called the ad "sexist" and "demeaning," and said Burns should apologize to Potter for the offensive 30-second ad.

"I think it's very demeaning. Just because someone's a feminist doesn't mean they're anti-Grassadellan or an anarchist," Nate said.

The ad refers to Potter's short-lived membership in the militant group "Feminists for Freedom." According to her campaign, Potter joined the group while in college at Deschire State University, but withdrew her membership after nine months because the group became "too combative."

"I liked the message they were advancing, but I just didn't like the way they were going about conveying that message. Fighting violence with violence is no way to resolve a conflict," Potter told the Berivian Herald newspaper.

Feminists for Freedom was popular during the 1960s but was heavily criticized for its controversial ideas and militant tactics. In one particular incident in 1967, a group of Feminists for Freedom members caused riots at a national football championship game in West Lake, Damoign, setting fire to team buses and storage units because the national league did not allow women to compete in the sport. Another controversial incident occurred in downtown Grassadella City in 1969, when a group of FF members protested topless from the roof of a downtown high-rise, holding signs that said, "If men can go shirtless, women can too."

Opponents of Trish Potter say her one-time affiliation with the group shows a lack of discretion. Congresswoman Nate dismisses that idea.

"This was almost forty years ago, and Trish did the right thing by leaving the group when it became evident they were too extreme," Nate said.

The Burns campaign has not officially commented to the press on the campaign ad. But a source close to the congressman, who represents Berivian's northeast suburbs, says Potter's membership in the Feminists for Freedom group is fair game.

"Any groups a candidate is associated with need to be revealed to the voters. They have a right to know that," the source, who asked not to be identified, told GNN.

Potter's campaign also has not commented on the ad.

Fulbright To Campaign For Casey In Armana

CNS Secretary of State facing tough re-election bid

WESTERNMYER, ARA--Armana Secretary of State Doug Casey (CNS) is hoping to ride the coattails of popular CNS senator and gubernatorial candidate Dale Fulbright.

Fulbright is expected to win over NAT opponent Lt. Gov. Ray Cognelli in next week's election. But Secretary Casey, who is facing a tough challenge from NAT candidate Mark Duggan, is not so secure in his bid for his first full term.

Duggan entered the race late at the urging of party officials. But his last-minute candidacy has put Casey on the defensive. Mr. Casey is a moderate conservative but he is struggling to gain support in this heavily-nationalist state.

Today, Casey's campaign announced the secretary will be appearing with Senator Fulbright at two campaign events over the next week. The first will come Thursday, where the senator will make a joint appearance with Casey at a campaign event in Westernmyer. The second appearance will happen next Monday in Burrowsdale, north of Maine City. The two will both spend election night together as well at the CNS party headquarters in Port Victoria.

Kelley Touts Progress On Transportation, Education

New campaign ads highlight governor's achievements

NORTH BERIVIAN, DES--With less than a week to go before the general election, the campaign of struggling incumbent governor Sharon Kelley (CNS) has released a series of new ads that highlight the governor's accomplishments since she took office one year ago.

Specifically, the ads focus on Kelley's work on transporation and education. One ad, entitled "Fast-Lane," hails Kelley's increase in spending on transportation projects. Another ad talks about Kelley's "commitment to smaller class sizes," and praises the governor's "dedication to [Deschire's] children."

A third ad released by the campaign commends the governor for capping property taxes.

"When Deschire families were struggling to make ends meet, Governor Kelley stood up to the spend-and-tax establishment, and worked with the legislature to cap property taxes," the narrator says.

Kelley's opponent, nationalist Lieutenant Governor Jake Kemp, has not yet released a counter-ad. But the Kemp campaign did talk with the media about the Kelley commercials. Spokesman Aaron Harson said that while Kelley takes credit for transportation projects and education and tax reform, little actual progress has been made on those issues.

"She talks a lot about transportation projects, when in reality she cut 30,000 low-income children from state healthcare rolls to fund those projects. That's not progress, that's abandonment," Harson said.

Kelley is trying to re-take the lead in the race for governor. Recent polls have consistently put her behind Kemp, with the latest poll conducted by WOAB-TV showing Kemp with 52% to Kelley's 48%. The margin of error in that race was 3 points.

Sonda To Be Released From Jail December 23

Former DES governor will be released four months early for good behavior

SANDERSON, DES--Former Deschire Governor Jane Sonda (NAT), who was impeached and later imprisoned for a corruption scandal that brought down several members of her administration, is slated to be released from jail nearly four months early on December 23rd.

Sonda went to jail back in April. She was originally sentenced to 13 months in a minimum-security facility northeast of Berivian. However, after applying in July, she was granted parole and will now be released December 23rd, just two days before Christmas.

A spokeswoman for the Sonda family says the former governor is "elated" she will be able to spend Christmas with her family. There is no word where the Sonda family will be celebrating the holiday, however.

Once out of jail, Sonda will be on probation for two years. She is also not allowed to leave the state for one year.

Latzo Will Not Face Charges For Drunken-Driving

District Attorney says there's not enough evidence

LORENZI, CAR--Carova's lieutenant governor, Carson Latzo (NAT), will not face drunken-driving charges for an incident that occurred in September, the Lichmond County District Attorney said Friday.

The incident happened back on September 26th, when Latzo was pulled over by a Lichmond County Sheriff's Deputy in Townsend, just east of Lorenzi. Latzo had apparently been attending a dinner party earlier in the evening.

According to police records, Latzo was pulled over at around 1:00 AM on the morning of September 26th for speeding. The officer on scene smelled the presence of alcohol, and then administered a sobriety test, which the officer says, Latzo failed. But when the officer (who has not been named by department officials), learned the driver was the lieutenant governor, he did not arrest him. Instead, he called a superior officer, who instructed him to call a designated driver and not report the incident.

Latzo acknowledges he was pulled over, but disputes that he was drunk. He also insists he did not ask for special treatment from police, a story the officer also backs up.

Up until this week, it was unclear if Latzo would be charged with drunken-driving. However, on Friday, Lichmond County Prosecuting Attorney Beth Mandley told the media there is not enough evidence to file charges against Latzo, in part because the Lichmond County Sheriff's Office has lost results from the sobriety test that was conducted on Mr. Latzo.

"At this point, due to the inadvertent loss of Mr. Latzo's sobriety test results by the Sheriff's Department, we cannot continue with prosecution against Mr. Latzo, and we will not pursue charges," Mandley said.

Latzo's lawyer, Peter Cambria, told reporters Friday has was "not surprised" the District Attorney was not pressing charges because "there was never any evidence to begin with." The lieutenant governor himself did not respond to requests for comment.

The Lichmond County Sheriff's Department, however, says it is still looking into the incident. Department spokesman John Coriff says the department is conducting an investigation to determine if any ethics rules or laws were broken by the superior officer who allegedly ordered the subordinate officer to not report the incident.

"We take these allegations very seriously. If any of our superior officers ordered a subordinate to not report something or to keep quiet about it, that is a violation of department policy and state law, and it will not be tolerated," Coriff said.

The internal investigation is currently being handled by the Carova State Police, to avoid a conflict of interest within the agency.

Meanwhile, political leaders and every-day citizens are enraged Latzo avoided charges, and are equally upset about the jumbled handling of the case by the Lichmond County Sheriff's Department.

"How on earth is it that the lieutenant governor of our state is given special treatment for a serious offense, and then the sheriff's department is too imcompetent to hang on to the evidence?" State Representative Jim Cubins (C-Port Bay) told the Lorenzi Daily News. "Carson Latzo should be charged with drunken-driving, and the officers who let him off the hook should be fired, and the imcompetent police who lost the evidence should be fired."

Carova Governor Dan McCrae's press secretary, Allan Richardson, said the governor had no comment on the case but would be speaking about it later this week.

Latzo Denies Drunken Driving Story, Could Face Criminal Charges

Possible criminal charges pending; state ethics commission launches investigation

CAROVA CITY, CAR--Carova's Lieutenant Governor, Carson Latzo (NAT), could face criminal charges for drunken driving, according to the Lichmond County District Attorney's Office. Latzo has denied for the last several weeks he drove while intoxicated. The alleged incident took place back on September 26th while Latzo was attending another party in Lorenzi.

According to the Lichmond County Sheriff's Department, a deputy pulled Latzo's vehicle over in Townsend, just east of Lorenzi, at approximately 1:00 AM. The deputy smelled the presence of alcohol, and proceeded to give Latzo a sobriety test, which he failed.

However, when the officer discovered Mr. Latzo was the lieutenant governor, he did not arrest Latzo but instead called a superior and was told to call a designated driver for Latzo and remain quiet about the incident.

The Lichmond County Sheriff's Department says it's investigating the case, and all officers involved have been supsended-with-pay until an internal investigation is complete. Department spokesman John Coriff told The Lorenzi Daily News that allowing state officials--even those in prominent positions--to avoid arrest or criminal charges is against department protocol as well as state law.

"If in fact, Mr. Latzo was intoxicated, he should have been arrested and booked, just like every other citizen of this state in the same situation," Coriff said. "Under no circumstances whatsoever, should Mr. Latzo, or anyone else, be allowed to get away with drunken driving. That is a very serious offense and we, as a department, take it very seriously."

Latzo's lawyers dispute the officers' claims of what happened on the morning of September 26th. However, his legal team would not officially comment on the specifics of the case.

"All we can say at this point is that Lieutenant Governor Latzo has a very different version of what happened that night, and we will be glad to share that story with investigators," Cambria said.

The Carova State Police have taken over the investigation, and has already interviewed Latzo several times, and plans to continue interviews in the coming days. The officers involved have also been interviewed by state police, investigators say.

The Lichmond County District Attorney has until Friday, November 22nd, to file charges. The penalty for drunken driving varies, but most likely, if charged, Latzo will only face misdemeanor charges. He may also face possible jail time, fines, and/or community service.

Governor Dan McCrae has not addressed the scandal, only saying that he hoped the allegations weren't true, and he hoped Latzo would be cleared of any wrongdoing.

"The administration will withold comment until Friday, when we know what the D.A. will do," McCrae's press secretary Alan Richardson told the media Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Latzo is facing an ethics investigation, after the state ethics commission voted 4-1 today to launch an investigation into his actions.

Evangelicals Rally For Diego

Pastor running for Lt. Governor receives strong support from evangelical Christian community

VICKSBURG, DMG--The popular pastor running for Lt. Governor is being strongly supported by fellow conservative Christians throughout the state.

Mercer Diego (CNS), senior pastor at Mattinow Family Church, a mega-church of 8,000, never planned to enter politics. But in 2006, the 41-year-old husband and father of five did just that when he decided to run for delegate as a Conservative. Though unsuccessful then, Diego decided, after much prayer, to run for office again this year--this time, for lieutenant governor.

"It wasn't an easy decision in any aspect. I had to consult my family, my friends, my church and co-workers, and above all, God," Diego told the Mattinow Star newspaper.

But the affable pastor, who is wildly popular among Christian conservatives throughout the state and nation, decided to run. And now that he's on the ballot, he is finding broad support among the state's evangelical Christian community.

A new poll conducted by the University of Vicksburg showed Diego earning an astonishing 85% of the evangelical vote when matched up with his NAT opponent, businesswoman Jenna Duvan.

"Mercer really attracts people to his campaign, particularly evangelicals, because he is one of them. He believes that God is sovereign and must have a place in our government," Dr. Jim Wesley, professor of religious studies at Wernerheim Presbyterian University, told GNN.

And Diego's supporters are enthusiastic in their support. Though he trails Duvan in money and name recognition, Diego often speaks to adoring crowds of thousands at campaign rallies and events. Duvan rarely attracts such attendance.

At a rally in Vicksburg Saturday, over 3,700 people packed into Whitby Stadium, on the city's west side to hear the religious leader speak. Amid the rain, supporters were also waving signs and handing out campaign literature to passersby.

Though initially trailing Duvan significantly in the polls, Diego now is virtually even with his NAT opponent. And Duvan still has more money, with $8.1 million compared to Diego's $7.4 million. However, with a little over a month left to go before the election, Mr. Diego's campaign is aiming to close the fundraising gap.

"We have got to get Mercer in there [office] and the only way we can do that is if we donate our money, time, and energy to his campaign," Becky Steuman, a minister from Vicksburg told the crowd at Whitby Stadium.

A subsequent speaker told the enchanted crowd Diego deserved their support because he "stood up for the right things."

"Let me tell you what Mercer believes," Brad Ellington, a pastor from South Grassadella City, told the crowd. "He believes life begins at conception. He believes marriage is between one man and one woman. He believes there is a creator, who formed the earth and heavens and everything that is in it. He believes that every person is important, and that life should be protected at all costs. And most of all, he believes that faith and freedom are not exclusive, but rather, complimentary."

The Diego campaign would not comment specifically on its outreach to evangelical voters.

"Mercer has supporters from all walks of life and religious and cultural backgrounds, and that's because his message of freedom and hope for our state is registering with people from all over the political spectrum who are hungry for change," spokeswoman Mary Cronn told GNN News.

According to the campaign's website, Mr. Diego will appear Monday in Grassadella City and then later on in the week in West Lake.

CNS Party Officials Dispatch Almone To Help Struggling Candidates

Popular POG governor is helping with fundraising for vulnerable candidates

MAVOCKE, CEA--With several Conservative gubernatorial candidates trailing in the polls and struggling to raise funds for their campaigns, top officials in the CNS Party are asking popular POG Governor Donna Almone to help out her vulnerable colleagues.

On GNN's The Capitol Report with James Madine, Almone confirmed that she will be campaigning and fundraising for her conservative counterparts in other states. The governor did not say if top party officials had asked her to help, but a party official, who spoke to GNN on condition of anonymity, confirmed that Almone's help was requested.

"They basically asked her to go campaign in all these states for these candidates that are struggling to raise money and are struggling in the polls," the official said.

Almone said she was choosing to campaign on behalf of her colleagues because she wants to keep them in office.

"I feel strongly about each one of my Conservative colleagues. I believe they are providing the necessary leadership for our country, and we need every one of them in office," she told Madine.

GNN confirmed that the POG Governor will embark on a lengthy national tour. Her first stop will be in Gallaghan, Ceona next week, where she will stump for incumbent Governor Don Parkins, who is trailing his Nationalist opponent, Christine Gabler, in the polls. Next, Almone will appear at a private fundraiser later this month in Grassadella City for Grassadella City mayor Sid Hoffa, who is locked in a three-way race with incumbent Jim McCaren (NAT) and D-R challenger Isaac Hjelms.

Almone will also appear at campaign events in Deschire, Harvannah, New Portsmouth, and Wilkonshire. It's unclear which, if any, events will be open to the press.

Embattled Aide Will Leave Gorbachy Campaign

Derrick Shaffey has been asked to leave the Gorbachy campaign

TREETON, MON--An aide to Senator Hanna Gorbachy, who admitted last week to sending offensive and defamatory e-mails using campaign computers has been asked to leave the senator's re-election campaign, a spokeswoman said Sunday.

"Senator Gorbachy asked Mr. [Derrick] Shaffey to resign his position effective immediately," Jorna Morgan, a campaign spokeswoman, said. "Mr. Shaffey indicated he was willing to do that."

Shaffey admitted last week to sending e-mails containing disparaging remarks about Gorbachy's opponent, Representative Rill Stevens (CNS), who is openly gay. The e-mails, sent to another campaign staffer, contained homophobic comments and ridiculing remarks about Stevens and gays and lesbians in general.

Gorbachy immediately condemned Shaffey's behavior, but the senator did not immediately dismiss him from the campaign. Instead he was put on an indefinite suspension without pay until Gorbachy and senior advisors decided what action to take.

The Stevens campaign released a statement attacking Shaffey's actions, calling them "offensive, disgusting, and purely hateful." Representative Stevens also called on Senator Gorbachy to remove Mr. Shaffey from her campaign.

"I don't think there's any way Senator Gorbachy can sincerely say she supports the gay/lesbian community if she keeps Mr. Shaffey on the pay-roll," Stevens told GNN News.

Contacted by GNN Sunday, the Stevens campaign commended Senator Gorbachy for firing Shaffey, but questioned why it took so long.

"We're glad that Senator Gorbachy made the right decision to fire Mr. Shaffey," spokeswoman Mary Konns said. "What we're wondering is why it took so long for the senator to make that decision."

The Gorbachy campaign defended their process, telling GNN that the decision was not made immediately because Mr. Shaffey held a key position in the campaign, and senior advisors had to rearrange staff assignments to cover his position.

"The reason it took so long was purely because of personnel issues, not because there was any doubt about the inappropriate nature of [Shaffey's] actions," Dan Condon, a Gorbachy senior aide told GNN.

Senator Gorbachy will be holding a press conference tomorrow afternoon to personally address the issue. GNN will have live coverage.

Sellious Slams Voldrew Over Taxes

Former secretary of education says liberal bank mogul 'doesn't understand middle class'

MAVOCKE, CEA--Conservative House candidate Megan Sellious slammed her NAT opponent, former banker and wealthy investor Bernie Voldrew, over taxes.

Calling him a "wealthy banker who made millions off the mortgage crisis," Sellious attacked Voldrew for supporting higher taxes on the middle class and for higher taxes on corporations.

"It was Bernie Voldrew who supported higher taxes on Ceona's middle class families. It was Bernie Voldrew who supported higher taxes for small businesses. And it was Bernie Voldrew who supported higher taxes on large corporations. These are not the values of Ceonans," Sellious said at a speech in Mavocke.

Sellious also attacked Voldrew for his "almost socialist-like policies."

Voldrew did support a tax increase on some middle class tax-payers, but only for upper-middle class citizens, those making between $70,000 and $98,000 per year, his campaign said. When it comes to raising taxes on corporations and small businesses, that claim is "preposterous," according to campaign spokeswoman Vicki Mayfield.

"Bernie Voldrew has only proposed raising taxes on big, corrupt corporations like oil companies, because he believes those corporations owe the Grassadellan people," Mayfield said. "As for small businesses, it's just not true. Bernie has never supported raising taxes on small businesses."

Sellious and Voldrew are running in what could be one of the nation's closest races this December. A recent poll showed Sellious, the former Secretary of Education, with 50% to Voldrew's 48%, a statistical dead-heat.

Voldrew has tried to tie Sellious to the Byelle Administration's policies, while Sellious has attempted to make Voldrew look like a wealthy banking executive who is out of touch with Ceonans. Both candidates have made social issues a primary piece of the campaign, with Voldrew attacking Sellious for her conservative views on abortion, same-sex marriage, and embryonic stem-cell research. Sellious, for her part, has tried to paint Voldrew as an ultra-liberal weak on national security and against traditional family values.

The race is only likely to get uglier as December 4th nears. Both candidates have significant amounts of money to work with. As of October 1st, Voldrew had raised $14.1 million, although he loaned his campaign $2.5 million. Sellious doesn't have as much money, only $11.6 million, though she has more independent groups acting on her behalf, evening out Voldrew's money advantage.

Gorbachy Campaign Worker Bashes Gays, Stevens In E-Mails

Senator's staff member sends anti-gay emails, mocks Stevens' sexual orientation

TREETON, MON--Senator Hanna Gorbachy (NAT), who is facing re-election this December, is apologizing after one of her staff members sent anti-gay e-mails, including messages that mocked Gorbachy's opponent, CNS Congressman Rill Stevens, who happens to be openly gay.

Derrick Shaffey, a key operative in Gorbachy's re-election campaign and a full-time aid to the senator, admitted to sending the e-mails after they were leaked to local media. In its Thursday edition, The Oaksdale Press newspaper published excerpts of the e-mails, but newspaper officials said some portions had to be edited because they were too explicit for publication.

In one e-mail to a fellow nationalist colleague, Shaffey writes that gays "don't deserve the attention they've been given in this campaign," and that "gays are too stupid to figure out that politicians don't really care about them." In that same e-mail, Shaffey calls Stevens a "tiny-brained faggot," and suggests if Stevens would "cross-dress" he could "do better with women [voters]."

Shaffey, a 25-year-old recent college graduate of Owens-Park State University and the youngest member of Gorbachy's full-time staff, initially denied sending the e-mails, until he was confronted by members of the media with exact transcripts. He then acknowledged he sent them, but said they had been taken out of context.

"It was really all just...kind of a joke," Shaffey said. "I think it's really being taken out of context by the media."

Out of context or not, the Gorbachy campaign did not hesitate to take action. Senator Gorbachy jointly appeared with Shaffey at a special press conference Friday morning, openly condemning his remarks.

"I have to say that I am appalled, utterly appalled, disgusted, disappointed, and ashamed of Derrick's behavior," she said. "This is in no way an acceptable kind of behavior for my campaign."

Shaffey also spoke personally, issuing an apology to Representative Stevens and the public.

"My actions were wrong. It was dumb, it was stupid. I should never have sent those e-mails, and I just want to say I'm sorry to Congressman Stevens, to the people of Monomi, and to Senator Gorbachy," he said.

When asked about Shaffey's future with the campaign, the senator did not say whether he will be dimissed. Mr. Shaffey has been put on indefinite suspension, however, the senator said.

The Stevens campaign did not immediately comment to reporters. However, the campaign did release a written statement later in the afternoon, in which Representative Stevens called Mr. Shaffey's comments "despicable, deplorable, and completely and utterly offensive."

"Mr. Shaffey's words are not only offensive to me, they are offensive to every member of our society who identifies with the gay/lesbian/bi-sexual/trans-gendered movement," Stevens wrote. "And to hear these hateful, bigotted words is extremely hurtful and demeaning."

Stevens also called for Shaffey's immediate departure from the campaign.

"If Senator Gorbachy truly cares about running a clean and respectful campaign, she will do what's right and immediately force Mr. Shaffey to leave the campaign. This kind of bigotry and hate-speech should not be tolerated in this campaign."

Senator Gorbachy's campaign will make an announcement regarding Mr. Shaffey's future with the campaign sometime over the weekend, a campaign spokeswoman said.

Some Gays Refuse To Support Stevens In Monomi House Race

First openly-gay congressman not winning over all homosexual voters

TREETON, MON--Congressman Rill Stevens (CNS), the first-openly gay member of Congress, has drawn admiration from some in the gay community over the last three decades he's been in public office.

But now he's drawing ire from many of his fellow homosexuals. Stevens is vying for the Senate, running against incumbent Sen. Hanna Gorbachy (NAT). But today, a group of Monomi homosexuals announced they are supporting Gorbachy, even though Stevens shares their sexual orientation.

"We cannot support Congressman Stevens because, while he is gay, he does not support equal rights for gay Grassadellans," Eric Cannon, President of Pride Alliance, the nation's largest pro-homosexual-rights group, said.

Stevens has been open about his sexual preference since 1992, when he first came out publicly. Since then, he has actively stood up for homosexual rights in the National Assembly; introducing dozens of bills, including hate-crime, anti-discrimination, and property rights legislation.

But Stevens has come under fire from gay-rights groups because, while he is gay, he opposes legalizing gay marriage. He does support civil unions and legal rights for gay couples, however.

In an interview back in July 2008, Stevens told GNN's Marie Watson he opposes legalizing gay marriage "for a number of reasons, but primarily because the Grassadellan people, collectively, do not support it."

Stevens' campaign expanded on those remarks yesterday.

"Congressman Stevens opposes gay marriage because the majority of Grassadellans don't support legalizing it. The latest poll, back in August 2008, shows 58% of Grassadellans opposed to legalizing gay marriage, and Congressman Stevens does not believe he should go against the people on this issue," Mary Stegen, campaign spokeswoman, said.

Critics say Stevens is opposed simply because of political reasons. He is a member of the conservative party, which officially opposes same-sex marriage, and he represents a conservative congressional district that covers the northern suburbs of Treeton.

"I think the real reason Rill Stevens is opposed to gay marriage is because his party doesn't support it and if he did support it, he would be going against the party," Political Scientist Todd Atham, of the University of Monomi told GNN.

Stevens denies party pressure is the reason he opposes the issue. His campaign also points out that while he has not supported same-sex marriage, he has consistently advocated for homosexuals.

"Congressman Stevens has always stood up for the gay and lesbian community in Monomi and across the country. They are his brothers and sisters. He will always stand up for them," Stegen said.

Gorbachy's campaign did not comment on Stevens' record, but welcomed the endorsement from the Pride Alliance.

"Senator Gorbachy has consistently fought for gay and lesbians in our state and whole-heartedly supports same-sex marriage and equality," spokeswoman Marra Thomson said.

Stevens himself has been mum lately on the issue. When questioned by reporters last week, he refused comment.

Earlier this year, in May, Stevens celebrated his 19th anniversary with his life-partner, Jay Goldberg. The two reside at their home in Monoatchu, Monomi.

Hjelms Draws Bi-Partisan Support In Bid For Governorship

D-R candidate attracts supporters from all parties

GRASSADELLA CITY, DMG--Gubernatorial candidate Isaac Hjelms (D-R), once considered a long-shot at winning the governor's mansion, is now rising in the polls and earning support from all sides of the political spectrum.

The 31-year-old entrepreneur has branded himself as an independent-minded alternative to the two other candidates, incumbent Jim McCaren (NAT) and Grassadella City mayor Sid Hoffa (CNS).

"Unlike my two opponents, I haven't been a politician for a majority of my life. I'm not friends with powerful lobbyists and party bosses. And I don't live in an affluent, gated community," Hjelms told a crowd in Mattinow.

And he seems to be attracting supporters from all parties. Yesterday, conservative Senator Brian Altamont announced his endorsement of Hjelms. Joining Altamont were out-going Sen. Kory Brown (NAT) and several NAT members of Congress, including Reps. Sasha Chames, Yona Chi, Carl LeBeck, Cynthia Mahoney, and Dahmariche Michaelikov. Additionally, four of the state's seven democratic-reformist representatives threw their support to Hjelms, among them, Reps. Geoff Borinsky, Michael Mitzen, Daphne McChildress, and Judy Matthis.

Many members of Damoign's congressional delegation are staying neutral. Most notably, D-R Reps. Franz Furhlman and Sara Bowdin declined to endorse Hjelms. And one democratic-reformist congresswoman, Jessica Blaine of Lacarthy, switched sides and announced her support for Hoffa.

Despite his wide ideological appeal, Mr. Hjelms still trails both McCaren and Hoffa in the polls, though he is improving. Last month, Hjelms was receiving about 12% of support from likely voters. In the latest poll last week, he is at 20%. And his rising numbers are cause for concern for the McCaren and Hoffa camps. Hjelms' encompassing support, youthful good looks, and most importantly, his message of change, could combine to make him a powerful force in the election.

"Isaac Hjelms is basically saying that the nationalists and the conservatives have been in power too long, and Damoign needs a third-party candidate to get real change accomplished," says Deedrick University political science professor Don Edin.

But both McCaren and Hoffa have attacked Hjelms for his youth, inexperience, and naivete.

"Isaac Hjelms is a nice, young, good-looking guy...a lot of young people in our state like him, but the fact is he's just not ready to lead our state," McCaren told a group of seniors in Grassadella City.

Hoffa mirrored those comments.

"Tell me who's more qualified: Isaac Hjelms or Sid Hoffa," he said.

Hjelms' campaign brushes off the attacks, and says the recent mud-slinging is proof Hjelms is finally emerging as a serious candidate.

"The reason Jim McCaren and Sid Hoffa are attacking Isaac Hjelms is because they're worried that he's going to win," Julie MacDama, spokeswoman for the campaign said. "And they've got good reason to be afraid because most Damoignites are tired of the same old guys, the good ol' boys with connections to lobbyists and party big-wigs, running the show."

In the money race, Hjelms is making up ground too. As of September 15th, Hoffa led the money race with $15.4 million, while McCaren had $11.3 million. Hjelms now has $5.6 million on hand.

Kelley, Kemp Overly Friendly In First Debate

Two candidates bring slice of civility to a rough campaign

ARCH-HAMPTON, DES--In their first debate of the election season, Governor Sharon Kelley (CNS) and challenger Lt. Governor Jake Kemp (NAT) openly disagreed on the issues, but did so in a more civil manner than in previous encounters.

The debate was almost strangely friendly at times, with both candidates throwing out compliments and lavishing praise on each other.

In their opening statements, the two exchanged pleasantries. Governor Kelley fondly referred to Kemp by his first name, "Jake," calling him "a worthy opponent." Kelley stressed their mutual concern for their constituents, saying, "Jake and I both share a commitment and love for our state and a concern for the people of Deschire."

Kemp returned the favor, praising Kelley for "making history" as the nation's first African-Grassadellan governor.

"Let me just say that even though we disagree on the issues, Governor Kelley, you have my utmost respect," Kemp said. "You have broken down so many barriers not only for women in Grassadella who are interested in public service, but also for citizens of minority ethnicity, and I am proud of that."

The audience responded positively as well, applauding Kemp's comments in affirmation.

Further into the debate, the smiling faces and friendly veneer did wear off some. Kemp attacked Kelley for her "failed policies," while Kelley insisted that under her leadership, Deschire "is moving forward with a plan and vision for the future."

The debate did end on a positive note, however, with both candidates shaking hands and half-embracing one another.

Yesterday's debate between the two candidates was the first of five before the December 4th election day.

NAT Will Not Pull Tieli From NWP Ballot, Sources Confirm

Despite poor poll numbers, Tieli will stay on the ballot

GRANTHAM, NWP--Nationalist party officials in New Portsmouth will not replace House candidate Berta Tieli with another more viable candidate, party sources told GNN News Monday.

Rumors began surfacing last Friday, when anonymous party sources told local media that party insiders were considering replacing Tieli with another candidate who could give incumbent Senator John Isaak Slooter (TA) a tougher run for re-election.

Tieli, a 60-year-old state legislator from Haines County, was drafted in June to challenge incumbent Senator John Isaak Slooter, a traditionalist who ran unopposed earlier this year in a special election. But Tieli has been trailing Slooter in the polls for months. In the latest average of polls released last Friday by the Grantham Institute, a non-partisan research center, Slooter led Tieli 44% to 36%, with 20% of voters undecided.

A new poll released yesterday showed Tieli making the race more competetive; trailing Slooter 39% to 43%, with 18% undecided.

Still, despite gaining slightly in recent days, many within the NAT party believe Tieli should be trouncing Slooter, the nation's first Traditionalist candidate elected to the House, by double digits.

"Isaak Slooter is a conservative Christian," says Haines County NAT chairman Randy Weaver. "New Portsmouth is not a religious state. A strong majority of our state's residents reject the divisive nature of religion. So a liberal like Berta Tieli should be killing him in the polls."

Still, despite her disappointing poll showings, Berta Tieli will stay on the ballot.

"Berta Tieli was nominated by the New Portsmouth Nationalist Party to run against Isaak Slooter. She had our party's support then, and she has our party's support now," state party Vice Chairwoman Mary Vandehoogen told the press Monday.

Sources from within the party, who asked to remain anonymous because of party loyalty, told a local newspaper top party officials were considering replacing Tieli with a more viable candidate, such as Congresswoman Jean Larae Dowd from the state's 1st congressional district.

"That's not going to happen," says state party Chairman Bob Springer. "Berta Tieli is our candidate and we back her one hundred per cent."

The Slooter campaign jumped on the party's division, asking, "If Berta Tieli can't even get her own party to support her, how can she expect to get the voters to do so?"

Tieli's campaign would not comment on the recent events but ensured the campaign will move forward.

"This campaign is going strong. And we plan on working hard and moving forward through election day," spokesman Chris Mortis said.

Poll Shows Bosseau With Lead

CNS Candidate Holds Slight Edge In NWP Governor's Race, Poll Says

DAYLE-LOCKE, NWP--Conservative gubernatorial candidate Jacqueline Bosseau has taken the lead in a poll for the first time since she began a re-match with incumbent governor Dale Rochey (NAT). The two faced each other last December in what was the state's closest election in history. When Rochey won 50.98% to Bosseau's 49.02%, the conservative activist and gun-rights enthusiast immediately announced she would continue her campaign and have a re-match with Rochey this November.

And the race this time around is just as close. Polls over the last few months have shown Rochey with an insignificant one or two point lead. However, a new poll released today by the Grantham Institute, a non-partisan organization that studies New Portsmouth politics, shows Bosseau leading Rochey 51.64% to 48.36%.

When all polls from the last four months are averaged, the two candidates are still tied at 47% each, with 6% undecided.

Still, the Bosseau campaign heralded the new poll numbers as proof Ms. Bosseau is making in-roads with the voters, particularly in areas where she struggled in the 2007 election.

"This poll shows that no only is Jacqueline's message of change resonating in strongly conservative places like Bridgeman County, it is also starting to win over people in areas that previously voted for Dale Rochey; places like Gadley County and Collier County," Brian Smith, a campaign spokesman told the Grantham Telegraph newspaper.

Rochey's campaign down-played the poll, pointing out the two candidates are still virtually tied when recent polls are averaged.

"I don't know why Jacqueline Bosseau's campaign is celebrating one silly little poll," campaign spokeswoman Brandy Sherksman told WDYL-TV. "Governor Rochey has been leading in the polls for months now, and an occasional bump in the polls is no cause for a pat-on-the-back by the Bosseau campaign."

Whatever one concludes from the poll numbers, it's clear Governor Dale Rochey and Lt. Governor Jane Hanman face a tough challenge for re-election from Bosseau and her running mate Evan Kershing.

Like the December 2007 election, the race seems to be centering on issues such as gun-rights, taxes, transportation, education funding, and the environment. Bosseau and Kershing support gun-rights and lower taxes while Rochey and Hanman oppose gun-ownership and want to rescind tax-cuts for the wealthy.

On transportation, the candidates' positions are less clear. Bosseau has attacked Rochey for his inaction on the matter, particularly the NR-1 corridor that runs north and south through the state's heavily-populated east side. Rochey and the NAT-controlled legislature approved $15.8 million in consultants and studies for the corridor, and the governor says a compromise with the legislature must be reached before any plan can be executed.

Education is also taking center stage in the race. Since taking office in January 2008, Rochey signed into law $16 million in additional education spending. Most of the funding comes from property and estate taxes, although a sizeable portion also comes from state lottery revenue. Bosseau has criticized Rochey for increasing taxes, saying New Portsmouth families "can't afford Dale Rochey's budget." Rochey counters Bosseau would cut education spending in the interest of lower taxes, and is unfairly abandoning New Portsmouth's children.

"It's a sad day when hunting on Mt. Sabacca is more important to you than the education of New Portsmouth's future generations," Rochey told an audience in Collier, referring to Bosseau's proposal to allow conditional hunting on the west side of Mt. Sabacca National Park.

Environmental issues have played a less-prominent role in the campaign. However, the issue drew more attention last week when Rochey said he would allocate $70 million dollars for green technology over the next seven years. Bosseau supports additional funding for environmental projects, but says a $70 million price tag is too much. She also says there are more pressing needs, such as brown-field clean-ups in the north eastern part of the state, and a habitat revitalization project in Collier County.

As the final weeks of the campaign near, the race is attracting big money from both parties. Rochey has raised $8.1 million while Bosseau has raised $7.4 million. The Conservative Governor's Association (CGA) is promising an additional $1.4 million for Bosseau's campaign before the December 4th election. The Nationalist Governor's Association (NGA) is also pledging more donations for Rochey, but has not said exactly how much they will give.

Kemp Takes Narrow Lead In DES Governor's Race

Lt. Governor Leading By One Point


BERIVIAN, DES--It appears the close race between incumbent Governor Sharon Kelley (CNS) and incumbent Lt. Governor Jake Kemp (NAT) is tightening.

Today's average of three recent polls shows Kemp with 45% to Kelley's 44%. The other 11% remain undecided or are supporting other candidates. Kemp's one point lead is statistically insignificant, since the margin of error is 3 points.

The race seems to be focusing on three main issues: government accountability, education, and transportation. Kemp and his surrogates have attacked Kelley for her office's lack of disclosure. Kemp has also gone after Kelley for her "wishy-washy" positions on education and her slowly-moving transportation plan.

"The people demand a governor who is open and discloses all information, not just selective pieces here and there," Kemp said at a rally in North Berivian.

Kelley's campaign volleyed back, saying Kemp "lacks any real vision" for Deschire and is "attacking Governor Kelley because he has no ideas of his own."

This year's race will likely be a repeat of the special election held just months ago, in which Kelley narrowly defeated both Kemp and D-R candidate Grant Riley in a three-way race. Riley, a multi-millionaire entrepreneur, has decided to sit out this election, however.

In the money race, both candidates are close. Kelley leads with $6.1 million, while Kemp has $5.4 million in his campaign coffers.

Brown Survives Close Primary Race, Frascanio Advances To General Election

Brown Fends Off Strong Challenge From Bryan Kim

VRISTO COLONADO, TRI--The Golden Shore was a hot-bed of political activity Thursday night, with two high-profile races being decided by small margins.

The first race saw incumbent Senator Brian Brown of Wilmington face-off against fellow conservative and businessman Bryan Kim, of southwestern Trinton. Brown, chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee, has been embattled after his seemingly slow response to a series of small plane crashes his committee was assigned to investigate earlier this year.

Nationalists and conservatives criticized Brown for his lack of urgency in the investigation process. Kim's attacks against Brown primarily centered around the senator's controversy with the transportation comittee.

In the end, however, the voters rejected Kim's message of change and his decidedly more conservative tilt. Brown barely escaped the primary with just 51.94% to Kim's 48.06%.

"Brian Brown will now advance to the general election, but the fact that nearly half of his party's voters didn't support him in the primary has got to be troubling for him," says Trinton University political science professor George Rutherford.

Polling data shows Brown did well in central Trinton and along the northern coast, while Kim was strongest in the western and southern parts of the state.

At a campaign celebration in Wilmington, Senator Brown told supporters he was "honored" the voters are sending him to the general election and said there is "still a lot of work to be done."

In the state's other Senate race, Reps. George Reedsworth of Wilmington and Kelsey Frascanio of Trinton (city) challenged each other for the seat being vacated by CNS Sen. Richard C. Parker. Reedsworth, a moderate, argued his 30-plus years of experience, particularly on military issues, prepared him for the House. Frascanio countered her youth and energy would bring a new feel to the House. She also pushed her gender, as a woman has never been elected to the House of Delegates from the state of Trinton.

"This is an historic opportunity for the people of Trinton to elect a woman to the House of Delegates," Frascanio told WTRI-TV back in June. "But I want the people of Trinton to elect me because I'm the better candidate, not just because I'm a woman."

Reedsworth is respected state-wide for his experience and his national-security credentials. Frascanio is likewise admired, though she has a more conservative voting record.

Last month, Reedsworth landed the endorsement of the out-going Parker. However, last-minute endorsements from Sen. Greg Baxter and Rep. Cathy Mace may have put Frascanio over the top.

According to polling results, Frascanio narrowly beat out Reedsworth, taking 51.28% to Reedsworth's 48.72%, a difference of just 18,451 votes.

"It was a hell of a race," Reedsworth told the Golden Shore Tribune newspaper. "Kelsey gave it her all and I gave it my all and she won. I congratulate her."

Trinton's Secretary of State, Trip Kellet, says voter turnout was at 46%. An estimated 1.4 million Trintonians took part in Thursday's primary.

Brown and Frascanio will now advance to the general election. Brown will face NAT banker Tim Blakewell of Wilmington. Frascanio will face NAT two opponents: Sandi Allen, a real-estate broker from Ocean City, and Paul Whitton, an economics professor from University of Trinton, who is running as a Liberal-Democrat.

GNN News' Political Team rates the Brown/Blakewell race as "leans NAT," and rates Frascanio/Allen/Whitton as "No Clear Favorite," the most competetive rating.

No Upsets In Lial Primary

Close Races, But No Surprises In Lial's Primary

CLOTHEN, LIA--Voters in Lial decided three close races in last night's primary election, yielding new challengers to the state's three delegates up for re-election.

A last-minute endorsement from nationalist Dlg. John Morandi may have helped Rep. Stephanie Manning (N-Clothen) secure her party's nomination to challenge two-term conservative Dlg. Steven McIntosh. Manning narrowly defeated fellow congresswoman Jamie Scousenovy (N-Koeurn) by a margin of 52.03% to Scousenovy's 47.97%. Manning was favored to win last night's contest, especially after receiving an endorsement from former Lial governor Kylee Thompson (NAT) last month. However, the race was slightly closer than expected. A poll conducted the day before the election showed Manning leading Scousenovy by five points, 47%-42%, with 11% undecided or choosing other candidates.

In her victory speech, Rep. Manning pledged to "partner" with Scousenovy in an effort to unseat McIntosh. She also promised to do "everything possible" to unite the state's nationalist party.

"We are one party with many ideas, but ultimately we are one party with one goal: to get Steven McIntosh out of office," Manning said to cheering supporters.

McIntosh has long been considered one of the most vulnerable conservative delegates in the 2008 election cycle. A moderate, and a leader on environmental issues, he is facing stern opposition from both the left and right. As of July 31st, Senator McIntosh had raised $12.7 million. In comparison, Manning has just $4.6 million.

On the CNS side last night, it was a tight finish between three conservatives: Rep. Katie Bronure, of Lial's first congressional district, Rep. Ryan Moore, of the eighth congressional district, and Rep. Jeff Woonby of the 13th district. Pre-election polls had shown a close race, but the final results were closer than expected. Bronure barely ended up the victor, pulling in 34.99% to Moore's 33.80%, and Woonby's 31.21%. Exit-polls show most of Bronure's support came from western and northern Lial, while Moore received huge support in the south-central portions of the state, and Woonby in the south-eastern corner of the state. Bronure will now go on to challenge Dlg. Juslana Thompson, who has $11.1 million in her bank account, compared to Bronure's $2.4 million.

And no surprise in the race between conservative activist Libby Marshall and state senator John Dearling. Marshall was leading by seven points in a poll conducted the day before the election. But Dearling cut that lead almost in half. In the end, Marshall still emerged the winner, garnering 52.30% to Dearling's 47.70%. Marshall, whose combative demeanor has delighted some and worried others, will advance to the general election, where he will face two-term incumbent Susan Thompson (NAT). Thompson is considered one of the NAT's most vulnerable incumbents of for re-election this year. However, the latest poll pitting Marshall versus Thompson showed the incumbent with 61% to Marshall's 34%, with 5% undecided. It could still be a challenge for the CNS to pick off Thompson this fall.

Lial's Secretary of Elections, Alan Dillon, says voter turnout for the primary was at 42%. Voter turnout for the general election is expected to be around 80%.

While conservatives having been gaining ground recently in Lial, most notably in 2006 with the election of Governor Gavin Gymbal and Lieutenant Governor Andy Peakmore, the state still remains a bastion for liberalism. In the 2004 presidential election, Lial went to Brenton Menuhaeo 60% to Dan Byelle's 40%. In this year's presidential race, recent polls show Brenton Menuhaeo holding a 62%-38% lead over Jim Frasier.

Hamblin Endorses Fulbright In ARA Governor's Race

Dale Fulbright holds comfortable lead over Ray Cognelli

MAINE CITY, ARA--Conservative delegate Dale Fulbright holds a comfortable lead over nationalist rival Lieutenant Governor Ray Cognelli, according to a new poll released Wednesday.

Fulbright leads Cognelli 52%-38%, with 10% of voters undecided, according to the Tallingham University poll. The margin of error is 4.5 points. The poll included 777 registered voters from across the state.

Fulbright, the popular two-term delegate, has long been a respected member of Armana's political community. He is a staunch conservative--on economic and social issues--and even made history by becoming the first Mormon elected to the federal congress in Grassadellan history. Though strongly conservative on issues like gay marriage and abortion, Fulbright is well-respected, even by members of the Nationalist party, for his bipartisanship and ability to reach across the aisle. Though somewhat more conservative than Armana's electorate, Fulbright's affable personality and his bipartisan record have buoyed his popularity and helped him stay in office.

Originally a state legislator, Fulbright went on to become president of the state senate, and then ran for the House of Delegates, sailing to victory in both his 1996 race, and his 2002 bid for re-election.

Last year, Fulbright announced he would not run for a third term in the House, but instead would run for governor. "It's time for a change, a personal change for me," he told Maine City's Morning News last January. "I've enjoyed representing our state in Mavocke, but I would love to represent the people of Armana as governor, and I think I would be a good fit for the job."

Since then, Fulbright has steadily raised money for his campaign. As of July 31st, the senator had raised $8.1 million, while nationalist opponent Lieutenant Governor Ray Cognelli had raised a little over $6.4 million. Despite a sizeable edge in money, Fulbright has spent only about $1.4 million, while Cognelli has spent $3.2 million. Cognelli must spend more money, however, as he has far less name recognition than his conservative opponent.

Fulbright has been endorsed by just about every conservative congressional representative in Armana. Reps. Dave Charm and Jerry Topahane of southwestern Armana have announced their support for the senator. Reps. Mary Vaagen, and Kelly Frois of south-central Armana have also voiced their support. Reps. Dave Charm and Jodie Holles of western Armana and Reps. Joel Zuckermann, Lou Rhelmna, and Robert Maclan, who represent districts in the Maine City area, have also endorsed Fulbright.

Analysts note that Zuckermann and Maclan are both seeking election to the House of Delegates, so their endorsements may be part of a campaign strategy. "It's very likely that Joel Zuckermann and Robert Maclan have endorsed Senator Fulbright for governor because they're hoping his popularity will spill over to their campaigns and boost their candidacies," says Dr. Robert Duncan from the University of Armana--Maine City.

Fulbright's conservative colleagues in the House of Delegates are also campaiging on his behalf. Senators Chuck Danbury, Dana Glow, and Bill Koeltz have all publicly endorsed Fulbright in his bid for the governorship.

Perhaps the most surprising and significant endorsement for Fulbright, however, comes from outside his own party. NAT senator Bert Hamblin announced yesterday he is supporting his fellow colleague over Cognelli, a fellow nationalist.

"I have weighed the decision, and I think what it really boils down to is, 'who is the better candidate?'" Hamblin told GBC's Gene Caughley. "I've worked with Delegate Fulbright. I've seen him in action. I've seen the kind of man he is, the kind of character he has. Not only is he prepared to lead our state as governor, he is also able to bring nationalist and conservatives together. I have seen him do it here in the House of Delegates in Mavocke, and I know he will do it as governor of Armana in New Salem," Hamblin said.

Hamblin, a moderate nationalist who retired from the House of Delegates in 2005, but was appointed by Governor Billy Jay Nelson to fill out the remainder of the late Delegate Elizabeth Riley's term, has stunned his nationalist colleagues by repeatedly crossing over to vote with the opposing conservative party. Particularly on issues of national security and the military, Hamblin often sides with the Byelle administration and his conservative colleagues in the House.

His endorsement of Fulbright stunned fellow nationalists, who saw it as an unnecessary move that could damage the campaign of the often-divisive Cognelli. But because the senator is not running for re-election, it is unlikely he will face any political repercussions.

Fulbright's campaign heralded the endorsement, touting it as an example of the senator's bipartisan ways and wide appeal to people of all political ideologies.

"Senator Hamblin's endorsement is further proof that Dale Fulbright is the person most likely to get things done in New Salem by bringing together nationalist and conservatives and breaking down partisan lines to get things accomplished for the people of Armana," David Arks, spokesman for the campaign, said in a statement.

Cognelli turned the endorsement around, claiming it is proof Dale Fulbright is out of touch with ordinary Armanans.

"I think the endorsements from Senator Hamblin and Senator Danbury and all these other senators and congressmen are proof that Dale Fulbright is more connected with Mavocke than he is with the state of Armana," he told the press at a campaign stop in Dube City.

Endorsements notwithstanding, it appears Lieutenant Governor Cognelli has a lot of catching up to do before November, according to Dr. Duncan.

"Armana is a nationalist-leaning state, and the fact that Ray Cognelli is trailing Dale Fulbright by so much at this point in the race is troubling. He has a lot of work to do to become competitive."

Kelley Requests Additional Federal Funding For Forest Fire Prevention

DES governor asks federal government for more funding and resources

RIDGEVIEW, DES--Deschire still faces a high risk of forest fires, Governor Sharon Kelley said Monday. Because of higher temperatures and a lack of moisture, the governor is requesting additional funding from the federal government.

Speaking to a group of fire fighters in Ridgeview, Kelley warned "the fire season is not over," and "Deschire is still at risk" for devestating wildfires.

She called on President Byelle and the Department of Federal Lands to provide more funding for fire prevention, and more resources in case fires flare up.

This year's fire season has been relatively uneventful. The nation's largest wildfire is burning in northeastern Wellington, and has consumed over 30,000 acres. Other big fires are burning in southwestern Remmington and southern Monomi. The state of Deschire has had few significant wildfires, with the largest one burning 1,300 acres northeast of Berivian.

So far this year, only Wellington Governor Peter Kosevich has declared a state of emergency. Last year, however, four governors declared emergencies with over sixty wildfires burning across the country.

The Department of Federal Lands has not commented on Kelley's request. But a spokeswoman for the department says Secretary Bill Kolbes will consider additional funding for Deschire, Wellington, Monomi, Remmington, and Ceona.

Schefsky To Run As Independent In Carova Senate Race

After primary defeat, Schefsky will run as Independent

CAROVA CITY, CAR--After a narrow defeat in Carova's primary last Thursday, incumbent senator Lee Schefsky will continue his bid for re-election as an independent.

Schefsky narrowly lost to fellow conservative Tyler Dodd. The 28-year-old president of the state senate--the youngest in state history--barely won with 50.71% to Schefsky's 49.29%.

After his defeat, pundits and party insiders speculated Schefsky would switch his affiliation to independent, allowing him to stay in the race. And Monday, Schefsky did just that. In a press conference at his Carova City campaign headquarters, the 58-year-old senator told reporters he was "surprised" by the outcome of Thursday's election, but "not shaken."

"I think my staff and I were all taken back a little, but we are in no way giving up," he said.

It had proved to be a tough primary season for Senator Schefsky. Long upset over Schefsky's opposition to the war in Iraq, hard-line conservatives within the state party convinced party activist Judy Padilla to challenge the two-term senator. At the time, Padilla was living in Lial, and not even a legal resident of Carova. In January 2008, however, she purchased a home in Lorenzi, and rapidly began raising funds for her campaign.

The primary field grew in April with the addition of two new candidates: Aldridge mayor Dave Emser and stay-at-home mom Donna Creilo. In May, at the prompting of party officials, Dodd finally entered the race.

Schefsky's opponents quickly sharpened their arrows. In particular, Padilla and Dodd went after the senator for his opposition to war funding and troop deployments. Padilla called him a "so-called conservative," while Dodd accused him of "abandoning the Conservative party and Carovans."

Schefsky defended himself, calling the Iraq war "unjust, unprovoked, and uncalled for." He also claims while he opposes the Iraq war, he has always supported benefits for veterans and active military service members. The senator himself is a veteran of the Vietnam war.

Some confusion in the primary campaign ended last month when Padilla dropped out of the race. In her shocking departure, Padilla publicly confessed she never intended nor wanted to become the party's nominee. Instead, she said, she only wanted to upset Schefsky for his "treasonous" voting record. As expected, Padilla through her full support behind Dodd and fellow rivals Emser and Creilo soon withdrew from the race as well.

Despite the withdrawal of three candidates, the primary election was anything but predictable. Polls by both campaigns and independent groups showed a dead heat race between Shefsky and Dodd. And the suspense continued up until election day, when Dodd defeated Schefsky by less than two points, or just 7,447 votes.

Because of Schefsky's decision to continue his campaign, voters will have three choices on the ballot this fall. Dodd, Schefsky, and NAT Ann Kocheni, former Secretary of Public Health, will all face each other in the general election. What is uncertain is if the divisive CNS primary will give Kocheni an edge in November.

Damoign Nationalists Urge Unity During Contentious Primary

NAT Leaders Afraid Heated Primary Could Fracture The Party In The General Election

GRASSADELLA CITY, DMG--NAT leaders are worried the contentious primary for the party's gubernatorial nomination may be too divisive and anger voters.

House Minority Leader Dlg. Shay Robertson told the STAR Radio News he is concerned the competetive primary, pitting acting-Governor Jim McCaren against Lieutenant Governor David Armasson and retired nuclear-physicist Hans Schmeller, may divide the party and alienate supporters of the unsuccessful candidates.

"I'm afraid that the attacks from each candidate toward the others may end up dividing our party for the general election, which would destroy our party unity and give the conservatives an edge," Robertson said.

Other party members agree.

"The last thing we need right now is to be divided and angry at one another," Delegate Debbie Madronas told GNN News.

The race has grown increasingly tense as candidates spar over who, if anyone, should drop out of the race. Schmeller, who declared his candidacy over a year ago, was the first to jump into the race. The 67-year-old retired scientist entered the race after Lieutenant Governor David Armasson initially said he would not run for governor. Armasson then changed his mind, announcing in October 2007 he would seek the NAT nomination for governor.

Complicating matters, last month, Governor Whit Meiyer, who is not running for re-election, unexpectedly suffered a heart attack, leaving him temporarily incapacitated and unable to hold office. According to the state's constitution, the president of the state Senate, Jim McCaren (S. Grassadella City), took over as acting-Governor. Upon his temporary take-over of power, McCaren insisted he would only serve as governor until Meiyer was able to return, and would not run in the 2008 election. Then, in an apparent about-face, McCaren three weeks ago announced he had changed his mind, and would in fact run in the fall election.

Now, calls for withdrawal are coming from all corners. Schmeller is calling on Armasson and McCaren to drop out because they initially declined and entered the race later.

"I was the first candidate in this race, and unlike my opponents, I didn't lie the voters," Schmeller said at a townhall meeting in southeast Damoign.

Lt. Governor Armasson says Schmeller should drop out because he lacks funds and is a weaker general-election candidate.

"It's obvious I am the strongest candidate against Sid Hoffa. That's apparent by the amount of money I've raised, compared to my opponents, by the number of endorsements, and by the poll numbers," Armasson said at a campaign rally in Grassadella City.

McCaren defends his candicacy, saying voters should retain him because he has made significant changes to the governor's office, and his policies have had little time to take effect.

"In the beginning, I was not going to run, no," he told GBC Radio. "But when I took over as acting-Governor, I made some serious changes, personnel-wise and policy-wise, and we haven't even given those policies enough time to work yet. If we elect a new governor, all the progress that has been made is going to abruptly stop. We can't afford to change leadership at this critical time in our state's history."

While some of Damoign's representatives and delegates have taken sides in the primary, most have remained neutral. And all are calling for unity and civility during the campaign.

"We are all nationalists. We all love our state and the principles we stand for. We shouldn't let an election get in the way of that," Congresswoman Cynthia Mahoney told GNN's James Madine on The Capitol Report.

No matter the outcome of Thursday's election, nationalists will be united, says Delegate Madronas.

"I'm confident that no matter what happens, we're all going to unify in the end and come together to defeat Sid Hoffa."

Former Business Executive To Seek Harvannah Governorship

Former Kondack C.E.O. To Run For Governor

HARLYNE, HVN--Less than two weeks after being sworn in, Governor Mark Andres (NAT) already has a new challenger for the fall election.

Bill Barnes, the former C.E.O. of Harlyne-based Kondack Industries, an automobile parts manufacturer, announced he will seek the Conservative nomination for governor.

"I have decided, at the prompting of my friends, family, and colleagues, to run for governor," the 56-year-old Barnes said. "I am doing this because Harvannah needs a leader who is honest, experienced, and prepared to handle the challenges our state faces."

Barnes' candidacy came on the heels of an announcement from Andres' former Conservative rival Julia Giorchani, the state's District Attorney, who told reporters Friday she will not seek a rematch with the governor in the fall.

"I've just weighed the decision with my family in mind and my own health and well-being, and I've come to the conclusion that running for governor is a big deal. It takes a lot of energy and time and commitment, and there's a lot of sacrifice involved, and at this point, I'm not ready to start the campaigning up again. I want to spend some much-needed time with my husband and kids," Giorchani told The Island News.

With Giorchani's declination, the party will likely coalesce around Barnes. But he will face an uphill battle in his effort to unseat the new governor. A poll conducted by the Universities of Harvannah and Damoign shows Andres leading Barnes 63%-37% in a head-to-head match-up.

Barnes' campaign downplayed the poll.

"Right now, Mark Andres is new. People like him. He's a young, fresh face. But give Bill Barnes a chance to share his message and his ideas, and come back in a month or two and then do your poll, and I think you'll see a much closer race," Greg Blix, Barnes' campaign manager, told WHLN-TV.

Neither Barnes nor Andres have raised significant amounts of cash for their campaigns. A report released Friday by the Harvannah Elections Bureau shows Barnes has raised $117,000, while Andres has $213,000 on hand.

Anderson To Run For National Assembly

Torch-Bearer of Traditionalist Party To Seek Assembly Seat

WELLINGTON, Biereland--A prominent Christian conservative, and co-founder of the Traditionalist Party, will compete to represent Biereland's 7th Congressional District in the National Assembly.

"Today, after many months of prayerful consideration, I have decided to seek to represent Biereland's 7th Congressional District in the National Assembly," she told assembled reporters.

Sharon Anderson, who made international headlines in 2006 when she went from long-shot to major contender in Wellington's House race, has announced her candidacy for the National Assembly. Anderson is the wife of Tom Anderson, the senior pastor at Brookings' Global Christian Centre, an evangelical mega-church on the city's northeast side. Their son Kyle Anderson already represents Biereland's 3rd Congressional District in the National Assembly, though as a Conservative, not a Traditionalist.

Back in 2004, the Andersons, along with several other powerful Christian leaders from across the country, founded the Traditionalist Party--a political party "rooted in the deep biblical truths that have been the cornerstone of [Grassadellia's] society and culture for centuries," according to its website.

In 2006, Anderson competed for Wellington's Senate Seat, held by Sen. Robert Harold (NAT). Despite given little chance of winning, she came in a close second place in the general election, losing to Conservative Bob Kozzy and defeating Harold. Though she lost the election, Anderson remained unusually popular among Wellington's voters as her conservative, traditional movement gained momentum.

Anderson's defeat was still viewed favorably by the fledgling Traditionalist Party because her candidacy, though unsuccessful, galvanized conservative voters and spurred unprecedented party growth. In early 2008, John Isaak Slooter, a young pastor from Grantham, New Portsmouth, was elected to the Senate in a special election. He became the first Traditionalist ever elected to the Se nate, and his victory was largely credited to Anderson.

Since her narrow loss to Kozzy, speculation has been widespread that Anderson would again seek election to the Assembly. As a result, her announcement today came as a surprise to many.

"I'm not surprised she's running for something, I just didn't expect the Assembly to be her choice," said Wellington State Senator Jim Hemmens (C-Starksmin), who worked closely with Anderson during her Senate bid.

Anderson said preserving life would be her top priority in Congress.

"If we fail to protect life, we fail to protect any of the other freedoms we treasure so greatly," she said.

So far, Ms. Anderson is the only candidate in the race.

Killings Won't Rule Out VP Slot

Popular Remmington Governor Open To VP Position

REMMINGTON CITY, REM--Governor Michael Killings (CNS) is not ruling out running for vice president with Conservative nominee Jim Frasier if asked, according to an interview this morning.

The popular two-term governor appeared on GNN's "Awakening A Nation" this morning, and when asked by host Michael Micardi if he would accept an invitation to be Frasier's running mate, Killings would not rule out the possibility.

"I can't say for sure exactly what I would do, Michael. I would be very honored and humbled if asked, but right now, I am focused entirely on being the best governor for the state of Remmington that I can be. That's my job right now and I am completely focused on it."

Killings has been mentioned as a possible VP for Frasier since the conservative delegate from Deschire effectively secured the party's nomination last month. An attorney-turned-governor, Killings would bring much needed executive experience to the Conservative ticket, as Frasier has never served in an administrative role. At age 43, Killings would also add some youth to 61-year-old Frasier's campaign.

As of Tuesday afternoon, Frasier's campaign declined to comment about Killings as a prospective vice presidential running mate. The governor's office also did not issue further comment after the interview.

Killings' term as governor of Remmington ends in January 2009.

New Poll Shows Close Race In Damoign House Contest

Minor Party Candidates Creating Splits Within Parties

GRASSADELLA CITY, DMG--A new poll shows Damoign's house race could be one of the closest races of the election season.

The poll, conducted in partnership by Deedrick University and The Grassadella City Times, shows NAT Congresswoman Jean Chaveau of Vicksburg leading, with 29%. CNS challenger Rep. Roman Chatskovy of Grassadella City trails Chaveau with 22%. He is followed closely by former NAT-turned-Liberal Democrat Jack Schlessinger, who has 21%. Next is Democratic-Reformist Diane Rosselli with 15%, and finally, independent Helen Parnamy comes in with just 7%. Another 6% favor other candidates.

Not included in the poll was former Traditionalist candidate Austin Keller of Olean, who dropped out last month due to a lack of funds.

The poll shows the race this fall will likely be one of the closest of the season, says Deedrick University politics professor Dan Roberts.

"It looks as if it's going to be a run to the finish line here," Roberts said. He also explained that the number of candidates makes the race more complex. 

"Part of the reason this race is so close is because there are five major candidates. Normally, there are only two candidates--a nationalist and a conservative--sometimes a third like a democratic-reformist...but it's unusual to have five candidates," he said.

The contentious race is causing the candidates to resort to bitter attacks. Just yesterday, front-runner Chaveau attacked her main competitor Roman Chatskovy for voting to cut social security benefits for millions of Damoignites. 

"These are scary economic times. The last thing we need is someone taking away the only financial security we depend on," Chaveau told a crowd of seniors in East Grassadella City.

Chatskovy countered the particular bill, which he voted against, was too big and would have spent too much of the tax-payers' money.

"The nationalists in Congress have spent more of our tax-payer money than ever before in history. People like Congresswoman Chaveau are more than willing to spend money, but when you ask them how they're going to pay for it, they don't have an answer," Chatskovy said at a town hall meeting on Grassadella City's southwest side.

The bitter partisan attacks have given Chaveau and Chatskovy's other rivals heavy ammunition.

"Look at what's happening between Congresswoman Chaveau and Roman Chatskovy," D-R candidate Diane Rosselli told a group of women in Arnellson. "They're so focused on attacking each other, they've lost the focus of what this election is about--the people."

The rhetoric flying from all sides in the campaign is a sign of things to come, Roberts says.

"It will only get worse. Until the election is over, it's going to be this bad and then some."

Byelle Promotes Wind Energy In Monomi

President Says Wind Energy "Part of Grassadella's Energy Future"

HEYDWORTH, MON--President Byelle was in western Monomi today promoting wind energy as an alternative power source.

The president visited the East Grafton Wind Power Facility in the village of East Grafton, located 20 miles northwest of Heydworth. While there, he took a tour of the grounds and spoke afterwards on wind energy's role in the future.

"Wind is essential to our nation's quest for alternative energy sources. We must invest more in wind technology as part of a coordinated effort to reduce our nation's reliance on foreign oil," Byelle said.

Alternative energy largely took a back seat during the president's first term. But it has become an increasingly important issue, especially in light of rising oil prices and volatility in the middle east, Secretary of Energy Bill Kolbes told the STAR network.

"Oil is so unreliable right now. It's up, and then it's down. It's accessible, and then it's not. We need a better energy source that is more dependable and does not fund terrorist activity in the middle east like much of these oil programs do," Kolbes said.

Despite bipartisan support for the facility's construction, none of Monomi's delegates were on hand Thursday for the president's visit. Some congressional candidates and aides were in attendance, but no major politicians from Monomi were on site.

Still, President Byelle praised the facility and its staff, and promised to fight for additional funding for similar projects.

"As president of this country, I will fight for more dollars and investment in this emerging technology."

"Emma's Wish" Raises $8.6 Million In Eight Months

Charity Founded In Honor of Governor's Daughter Raises Millions For Cancer Research

GRASSADELLA CITY, DMG--The charity organization founded in honor of Emma Huuvanna, the 6-year-old daughter of Trinton Governor John Huuvanna, has brought in over $8 million since its creation eight months ago. 

Back in November, the Huuvanna family announced their daughter Emma had been diagnosed with leukemia. After extensive media coverage, little Emma won the hearts of many Grassadellans, and a group of family and friends created a foundation named after the youngster, called "Emma's Wish." 

The goal of the organization, as described on its website www.emmaswishfoundation.org, is to raise money to "assist families of low-income children with paying medical bills," and "promote and fund cancer research." Foundation Vice President and Huuvanna family friend Sheri Craille told the GBC, "too many children in this country are suffering from life-threatening diseases, and their families can't afford the proper medical care. Our goal is to help these families financially so they can afford to have their son or daughter given the best care possible."

Craille also praised the group's massive fundraising.

"I think it's great. It shows that the people of this country do care and are reaching into their pockets to help."

While the group has received sizable donations from large corporations, most donations have come from individuals. Several businesses in many industries, such as retail stores and media networks, including Zimmer Media Corp., the parent company of GNN News, have partnered with Emma's Wish to raise money.

While Emma's story has captivated the nation, the foundation has come under fire for its alleged partisan leanings. In February, the group made a prominent appearance at a Nationalist party dinner fundraiser. However, when the group was invited by organizers of a similar function for the Conservative party, it declined to make an appearance. Critics complained the organization boycotted the Conservative party because of its opposition to stem-cell research. The group claims it was a scheduling conflict that prevented it from attending the CNS fundraiser, not politics.

Despite some criticism, however, the group has received bipartisan praise. President Byelle said today he was "thrilled" at the group's fundraising pace.

"It's outstanding. It's a wonderful cause, and the people of Grassadella should get behind it and support our children," he said.

It's not yet clear if all of the funds raised will go directly to Emma's Wish Foundation, or if those funds will be distributed and allocated to similar organizations.

Meiyer Recovering After Heart Attack; McCaren To Serve As Acting Governor

Damoign Governor Temporarily Handing Over Power


MATTINOW, DMG--Governor Whit Meiyer is in serious but stable condition after suffering a heart attack yesterday afternoon.

According to a spokesman, Meiyer wasn't feeling well and decided to stay home instead of going to work at his capital office. At around 2:00 p.m., the governor collapsed on the floor of his office in his east Mattinow home. His wife called 9-1-1, and EMT crews were at the home in minutes.


He was rushed to Bay View Regional Hospital, which is located just two miles from his home. Initially, the cause of Meiyer's collapse was unknown, but his staff later confirmed it was a massive heart attack.


"Governor Meiyer is currently in the hospital recovering after a heart attack," his office said in a statement. "Because he is in the hospital, he is currently unable to perform his duties as governor."


Taking over for him temporarily, as the state constitution outlines, will be President of the State House, Delegate Jim McCaren (N-South Grassadella City). While he will only be serving as acting governor, McCaren said he is prepared to take over permanently if Meiyer is incapacitated long-term.


"Our hope is that Whit is back on his feet and back to work soon," McCaren told Michael Micardi on GNN's Awakening A Nation. "But if he isn't able to return to work, I am prepared to step in as governor until his term is finished or until he can come back."


Doctors say they are unsure if Meiyer will be able to return to work.


"At this point, we won't know for another week or so if the governor will be able to return to work or not," Dr. David Stevens, director of the cardiac department at Bay View Hospital told reporters.


McCaren will serve as acting governor until Meiyer is able to return. If he is unable to return to work, McCaren will take over permanently as interim governor.

Andres Wins Governorship, Olsen and Giorchani Concede After Voting Problems

Judge Orders Recounts In Several Counties

HARLYNE, HVN--Nationalist Mark Andres, the mayor of Harlyne, has won the governorship of Harvannah, the Damoign Secretary of State's Office confirmed today. The results come following a day of recounts, after a state judge ordered a re-evaluation of ballots in five counties.

Andres defeated his two rivals, democratic-reformist Bernie Olsen and conservative Julia Giorchani, narrowly--winning just 35% to Olsen's 33% and Giorchani's 32%. Damoign Secretary of State Rob Mercheck said Andres led with 104,237 votes, while Olsen had 99,760, and Giorchani 95,038.

Earlier counts of the ballots showed a wider lead for Andres. But after complaints were filed by the Olsen and Giorchani campaigns, a state judge ordered recounts in Scandinaugh, Bourneham, Saoca, Enore, and Hamith counties.

The recounts saw more votes for both Olsen and Giorchani. They were later certified by county elections officials. Officials believe mistakes by elections workers were responsible for the wrong numbers, not vote tampering by any candidates' campaigns.

The final tally of votes showed interesting results. Andres was strong in Scandinaugh and Bourneham counties, the two liberal strong-holds in the state. Giorchani did expectedly well in eastern Harvannah, where voters typically trend conservative. Olsen did not win a majority of votes in any counties, but was competetive state-wide.

Mark Andres' victory was not surprising. The popular mayor of Harlyne was expected to win in the nationalist-leaning state.

After being declared the winner, Andres told the almost 3,600 supporters gathered at Centre Square in Harlyne that his vision for the state would be implemented right away.

"When we set out on this mission, we had a lot of dreams, and a lot of goals," Andres said. "Now, it is time for us to get to work to accomplish the goals we have set for our state."

He also spoke of bridging partisan differences between political parties.

"I will bring with me to Clevey Springs the same principles of leadership that guided me as mayor of Harlyne, that guided me in my candidacy for the House, and that continue to guide me to this very day," he said.

Just a few blocks away, Bernie Olsen spoke to supporters at the Downey Conference Centre, telling the crowd of nearly 2,500 people that though he lost the race, he was "proud of the race we ran."

"Before I entered this race, we had two grossly inexperienced and unqualified candidates. There was no alternative, no other option. That's when, at the prompting of friends, neighbors, and supporters, I decided to run--to give the voters of Harvannah a different choice, a better option," Olsen said to cheering fans. "We didn't win, but we gave the people of Harvannah a better choice."

The mood was more despondent at Julia Giorchani's "victory party." Only about 1,100 people were in attendance, and the atmosphere was somber. Giorchani said she too was disappointed, but pleased at the tough campaign she ran.

"It is disappointing," she said. "We sustained attacks from our opponents' parties, and even from within our own party. We went through the storm, and we were bruised and tattered, but we emerged strong," she said.

Giorchani added that she had conceded to Andres.

"I did call Mayor Andres, and I conceded," she said. "I thank him for a hard-fought campaign."

Olsen did the same.

"I congratulate Mayor Andres on his victory. I sincerely hope that he will deliver on his promise to be bipartisan," he said.

Andres is slated to officially begin his term on Monday, June 9th.

Giorchani On The Rebound, Polls Show

Conservative Gubernatorial Candidate Still Trailing Opponent, But Improving

HARLYNE, HVN--Julia Giorchani, the conservative candidate for Harvannah governor, is closing the gap between her and NAT candidate Mark Andres.

Giorchani has been trailing Andres by 10-15 points for the past several months. That deficit is in part due to the entry of DR candidate Bernie Olsen, who has stolen much of Giorchani's support.

But now, according to recent polls, Giorchani is lessening Andres' lead, primarily by reaching out to female voters. In a recent poll conducted by the Harlyne Sun newspaper, Giorchani led Andres with female voters 53%-47%. She also has been using her experience as Harvannah's District Attorney to bolster her qualifications for governor. In the same poll, Giorchani was viewed as the strongest candidate on crime by 61% of respondents.

Giorchani has struggled to gain support since the beginning of her campaign, even from fellow conservatives, chiefly because of her conservative views on issues such as gay marriage and her opposition to environmental protection. She does hold some more moderate positions, however, particularly her pro-choice stance on abortion and her openness to stem-cell research. But her conservative positions don't line up with the more progressive views of Harvannah's conservative voters, who tend to be fiscal conservatives by more liberal no social issues.

Adding to Giorchani's problems, many conservative politicians have abandoned her campaign and chosen to endorse the more liberal Bernie Olsen, who has years of experience as a former state legislator, and ambassador under Presidents Houston and Edinough.

"The party clearly is not unified," David Wilkins, a conservative state senator from Harvannah told the STAR network.

But Giorchani's campaign disagrees with Wilkins' assessment.

"We believe that at the end of the day, on election day, the vast majority of the Conserviatve Party will rally around Julia and support her in the voting booth," spokesman Jared Camens said.

Throughout the campaign, both Giorchani and Olsen have been pressured to drop out of the race in an effort to unify conservatives for the June 4th election. Both have refused, citing their ability to defeat Andres.

The candidates are now in full campaign-mode, campaigning relentlessly in the final days before the election. Both Julia Giorchani and Bernie Olsen predict victory against Andres, though the polls show that will be a difficult task.

Crouwsky Recovering After Suffering Heart Attack

D-R Icon In Stable Condition At Damoign Hospital

MAVOCKE, DMG--Delegate Sheila Crouwsky (DR-POG) is recovering today after suffering a heart attack last night.

Crouwsky was sleeping at her Mavocke home when she awoke with chest pains, a spokeswoman said. Her husband Gary called 9-1-1, and she was subsequently taken by ambulance to St. Luke's Medical Center, where she was admitted to the emergency room immediately.

According to the delegate's spokeswoman Lacey Keon, Crouwsky was treated by on-call physician Dr. David Attwood, who immediately conducted cardiac and respiratory tests. Attwood then cleared her to leave the emergency room and she was given general admittance.

Doctor Attwood spoke with the media this morning, and said that Ms. Crouwsky suffered a moderately severe heart attack. She was not at a high risk for death upon arrival at the hospital, but she could have sustained much worse injuries had she not been treated right away.

"Delegate Crouwsky is doing fine right now. She did suffer a heart attack last night, but fortunately she was treated right away and we were able to prevent any serious injuries from happening," Attwood said.

Crouwsky's colleagues in the House of Delegates have felt her absence tremendously.

"Sheila is a legend in this House," said Delegate James Owen-Wilson (N-REM). "We miss her and hope that she is okay."

House Majority Leader Delegate Joan Fhonda (C-DES) also expressed similar sentiments, saying the entire body "wishes her a speedy and smooth recovery."

Crouwsky is an icon in Grassadellan politics. She has served in the House of Delegates for twenty four years, and before that served in the National Assembly for sixteen years. She was the first Democratic-Reformist woman to serve in the House of Delegates.

Crouwsky had already decided not to seek re-election to her POG seat this year. It is unclear when she will be able to return to work.

Almone, King Tour Tornado-Ravaged POG And MON

Lawmakers Request Federal Funding Following Deadly Tornadoes

STANSVILLE, POG--At least 16 people were killed and dozens more injured after a series of deadly tornadoes ripped through southern POG and Monomi on Tuesday.

As many as eleven tornadoes were reported in the region on Tuesday following a severe weather alert issued by the National Weather Bureau. Three communities, Stansville, POG; Janiceburg, POG; and Marionsville, Monomi were hit especially hard. Scattered debris litters the landscape surrounding all three communities, and hundreds of homes were severely damaged or destroyed.

On Thursday, POG Governor Donna Almone and Monomi Governor Scott King toured the devestation in their states. They were joined by delegates and representatives from the affected areas.

After viewing the destruction, Almone and King held a joint news conference. Almone called the situation "horrifying" and said she was shocked at the severity of the storms' wrath.

"It's just so shocking...it's hard to take it all in, the level of destruction," Almone said. "I want the people of POG and Governor King also for the people of Monomi, that we are going to do everything we can to help these communities rebuild. And of course our hearts and prayers are with the victims."

King echoed Almone's feelings.

"I want the people of Monomi to know that we stand with you, we stand in solidarity. We are going to do everything possible to bring relief as soon as we can," King said.

Later in the press conference, Almone and King called on President Byelle to authorize federal funding for the devestated region. Just forty-five minutes later in Mavocke, Byelle declared the region a federal disaster area; freeing up money for the affected counties.

"Our hearts go out to the people of Monomi and Province of Grassadella," Byelle said at a press conference. "I have been in touch with Governor Almone and Governor King, and we are going to help the folks down there as best we can."

Byelle also offered comfort for those affected by the storms.

"We want you to know that your fellow Grassadellans stand with you. Your country and government will not let you down," Byelle said.

Monomi delegate Hanna Gorbachy (NAT) also appealed to citizens of other provinces to help by donating time and money.

"Obviously, we are going to need a lot of not only money to rebuild these broken communities, but also a lot of time and volunteers to come down here and give their time."

President Byelle will tour the region on Friday with members of his staff and other local officials.

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*Information on disaster relief aid and how to donate can be found on http://www.gnnnews.com/

Vassater Breaking With Party; Backing Olsen For Governor

Former NAT Candidate Endorsing D-R Challenger

HARLYNE, HVN--Former nationalist gubernatorial candidate Jim Vassater will not back his former NAT rival Mark Andres in the June 4th special election. Instead, Vassater will support Democratic-Reformist candidate Bernie Olsen.

Vassater broke with his own party to endorse Olsen over Andres. Many nationalists are following suit with Vassater, due to what they view as Andres' lack of experience.

At a campaign rally in Harlyne today, Vassater appeared with Olsen and spoke highly of his credentials.

"Only Bernie Olsen has the record of experience to lead this state. Only Bernie Olsen has the ability to work with members of all parties to get things done in Clevey Springs," Vassater said.

He also unleashed his harshest criticism of Andres to date.

"Why am I breaking with the [NAT] party on this? Because their nominee is unfit and unqualified for the office. Mark Andres lacks the experience and lacks the ambition to run this state," he said. "The guy can't even get his own party to back him fully. We [the NAT] clearly have a huge problem on our hands."

Reacting to Vassater's endorsement of Olsen today, the Andres campaign told the GBC that it was "disappointed but not surprised," and that "Mayor Andres regrets that his fellow nationalists are betraying him" by supporting other candidates.

Glenn Rosen, who also ran for the NAT nomination, endorsed Andres last week, despite saying during the primary campaign that the mayor of Harlyne was not experienced enough for the job.

"Do I believe he's the most experienced candidate? No, but he's the candidate that best represents my values and the values of our party. He's not a radical like Julia Giorchani and he's not an old fogie like Bernie Olsen. So I think he clearly is the best choice," Rosen said.

Andres and Olsen will face Conservative Julia Giorchani in a June 4th special election. Olsen is a retired veteran, former ambassador who served under Presidents Tracie Edinough and Dave Houston, and a former lawmaker in the Damoign legislature. Giorchani is the Federal Attorney for the state of Harvannah.