Garblake, Salavarde Win Special Assembly Elections

No change in balance of power after special POG assembly elections

LILLAC CITY, POG--There were no surprises in POG's two special assembly elections Tuesday, as the favored candidates in both races won without difficulty.

The first race, in the 15th congressional district, which borders the western rural suburbs of Hilton, saw Conservative Nancy Garblake take on Nationalist small business owner Aaron Curthey. The seat was formally held by now-Senator Dick Trau (CNS), who was elected in 2008.

Both parties invested heavily into the 15th district race, despite its overall Conservative lean. The NAT was optimistic Mr. Curthey, a young, energetic political newcomer, might pull off a victory due to the notorious low voter turn-out on special election days. However, Ms. Garblake held on to win the special election 53.32% to Curthey's 46.68%.

In the neighboring 18th district, once represented by John Yannes (NAT), who, like Trau, left the national assembly after winning a senate seat in the 2008 election, NAT candidate Emilio Salavarde easily surpassed Conservative Chuck Yorkin, winning 56.52% to 43.48%. The 18th district, which is situated on the Tundra-Grassadella border, is known for its NAT-tilt, and has not elected a Conservative since 1984.

Ms. Garblake and Mr. Salavarde will be sworn into office on Thursday, September 10. Their elections do not change the balance of power in the POG assembly delegation, which currently consists of 15 Nationalists, 10 Conservatives, and 2 Democratic-Reformists.