Kemmes will not forbid police from using tear gas

MARCHAND, Ara -- Despite impassioned pleas from Black Lives Matter activists and local officials, Armana Governor Leandra Kemmes will not order police to stop using tear gas against violent protesters.

Marchand Mayor Tom Mallowry and the city's councilors voted to prohibit local police from using tear gas on BLM protesters, calling it "cruel and excessive."

However, local police have pointed to a state law that says police agencies are allowed to utilize tear gas unless and only if state lawmakers or the governor issues an order prohibiting it.

"Tear gas does not fall under the jurisdiction of the mayor or the city council," said Marchand Police Chief John Ross. "The only ones who can dictate the use of tear gas are the legislature and/or the governor through an executive order."

Penelope County Sheriff Kim Wyott also voiced his support for tear gas.

"It's a tool we don't want to use as members of law enforcement, but unfortunately, sometimes it is the last resort we have to use when safety and security are threatened by violent protesters," said Wyott in an interview with the local newspaper.

A spokesman for Governor Kemmes said the governor would not issue an executive order banning tear gas.

"While Governor Kemmes fully supports the BLM movement and the peaceful demonstrations, she will not wade into this issue. It's an issue best left up to the judgment of law enforcement and local officials."

The spokesman added that "state legislators can take up the issue if they feel it necessary, and Governor Kemmes is willing to sit down with them and discuss the use of tear gas in large-scale protest situations."

Mayor Mallowry was unmoved.

"This is a moment when we need a strong governor who shows leadership, and that's just not what we're getting from our governor, sadly" he said.

Kemmes, who is of mixed Caucasian, Asian and Black heritage herself, said last week she "fully supports" the BLM movement.

"I know what it's like to be a person of color. I went to the military and experienced discrimination and judgment there. I've experienced discrimination from law enforcement before too. I know what it's like and I support those who are rightly calling attention to this issue."

"What I don't support is breaking windows, setting fires, throwing Molotov cocktails, throwing items at police, looting, rioting. I can't get behind that," said Kemmes.

A moderate Nationalist, Ms. Kemmes is known for her tough-on-crime and her law-and-order emphasis.

However, her response to the violent protests in Marchand, Mavocke and Dubrind has earned her scorn from the left-wing of the NAT Party.

"It's disappointing that a governor who is a woman and a woman of color is not more engaged and concerned about police brutality and violence against people of color," said BLM activist DaQueesha James, in response to Kemmes' decision.

Kemmes is up for re-election this year, however, no Nationalists challenged her in the primary election. She is facing little-known Conservative businessman Bob Hefner in the general election.

Stevens survives close Monomi Senate primary

HEYDWORTH - Incumbent Senator Rylan "Rill" Stevens is breathing a sigh of relief today.

The Conservative senator, who is politically moderate, narrowly defeated a more hard-line opponent in the party's primary election.

Stevens is known as a foreign policy hawk, but he's openly moderate on social issues.

As an openly-gay man, Stevens has struggled in the past to win over Monomi Conservative voters.

Running for re-election this year was no different for Stevens.

Gun-rights activist Randi Karswell, age 44, ran a well-funded campaign against the respected senator.

Ms. Karswell, an attractive business owner and married mother of three, argued that Stevens is too liberal and sides with Nationalists too often.

"Monomi is a Conservative state, and yet we have elected a senator who is Conservative on paper but votes like a Nationalist," Karswell said last week at a campaign appearance, where she refused to wear a mask.

Her campaign centered on Stevens' moderate voting record, gun rights and anti-mask sentiment.

Despite raising millions of dollars from across the country, and heavy support from the Grassadellian Rifle Club, Ms. Karswell still fell short in her bid to oust Mr. Stevens.

The final vote tally left Stevens with 54% to Karswell's 46%, or 491,383 votes to 418,671 votes, respectively.

Ms. Karswell, a first-time candidate, performed best in rural counties and in the most conservative counties.

Mr. Stevens received the most support in more urban and centrist counties, although he also received strong support in rural counties with large Native/Indigenous Grassadellian populations.

Stevens also won in his native Nylan County, home to the state's second-largest city Heydworth.

Karswell also is from Nylan County, but she struggled to win over voters on her home turf.

Unable to have a traditional victory party due to COVID, Mr. Stevens appeared on Facebook Live, at a small celebration with a few guests, all donning masks and toasting drinks.

"Thank you, Monomi Conservatives. I'm honored to have your support, it means the world to me. I will represent you well in the general election and we still have so much work to do to champion conservative causes," said Stevens.

Karswell held a drive-in victory celebration at a drive-in theater south of Heydworth. Few attendees wore masks at her campaign celebration.

Noticeably disappointed, Ms. Karswell thanked supporters and vowed she would run for office again.

"We won't quit campaigning and running until every pseudo-Conservative is booted out of office and replaced with real, honest, authentic, legit constitutional, Christian Conservatives," she said.

It's unclear who Mr. Stevens will face in the fall, general election. Nationalists are still conducting their primary selection. However, no big-name candidates have emerged, so it's likely Stevens will have a relatively easy path to re-election.

Leemore: 'Proud to stand with Sid Hoffa'

ARNELLESON, Dmg. -- She was unsuccessful in her bid for Damoign's governorship.

But Conservative state lawmaker Pat Leemore won the party's primary election for lieutenant governor Tuesday.

Leemore narrowly defeated state Rep. Andrew Liang by a margin of 53%-47%.

Liang, of Eastholm, immediately endorsed Leemore, who hails from the mid-coast area of the state.

Though they are running independently of each other, Sid Hoffa, the Conservative nominee for governor, has said he will campaign jointly with Leemore.

"We're running separately for separate positions, but I support Pat Leemore, we need her as our next lieutenant governor, so I am happy to join with her and team up with her," said Hoffa earlier this week in a radio interview.

Incumbent NAT Governor Jenna Duvan has also endorsed and will also campaign jointly with current Lt. Gov. Jeff Zeme.

In a Zoom Interview with The Grassadellia City Times, Leemore said she was honored to run for lieutenant governor alongside Hoffa.

 "I'm proud to stand with Sid Hoffa for election," said Leemore. "He was a great mayor, a great governor, and he's the person we need to lead our state at this pivotal moment in time."

Hoffa previously served as governor from 2009-2013.

Polling in Damoign's gubernatorial race shows Hoffa and Duvan nearly tied.

Also facing an uncertain political future is embattled Attorney General Rod Penora, who was indicted on federal corruption charges earlier this spring.

Despite the charges against him, Penora easily won a primary challenge from NAT attorney David Nance.

However, Conservative attorney Cathy Maison may present a formidable challenge to Penora in the general election.

Enos campaign fined by county health board for violating COVID restrictions

LANAKIS – He suffered a humiliating defeat in the Veroche governor’s race earlier this week.

But Billionaire Bill Enos received more bad news today.

His failed campaign was hit with a $36,814 fine.

The Marcialeukia County Health Department (MCHD) issued the hefty fine after the Enos campaign hosted a “victory party” on election night at the Intrinsa Hotel.

Due to Coronavirus, Veroche Governor Tom Harper issued a ban on gatherings of more than 30 people.

But the Bill Enos campaign’s “victory party” had more than 250 people in attendance, more than eight times the limit.

In accordance with state policy, the MCHD issued a $158 fine for each person over the 30-person limit.

According to MCHD officials, there were 263 guests confirmed in attendance at the party.

Additionally, there were 37 hotel employees present during the party, but health officials cut the campaign a break and chose not to issue fines for the hotel workers.

The Enos campaign said it would pay the fine without objection.

However, on his Twitter and Facebook accounts, Mr. Enos blamed Lanakis Mayor Dick Scholinger for the fine.

“Somehow I have a feeling failed Mayor @DickScholinger ordered his health department to issue this petty fine!” wrote Enos.

However, Scholinger pointed out the fine was issued by the Marcialeukia County Health Department.

“The “petty” fee Bill Enos blamed me for was issued by @MCHD, not the @CityOfLanakis. 2 different agencies, but I wouldn’t expect him to understand,” tweeted Scholinger.

“I am the mayor of the @CityOfLanakis. I do not work for or have authority over @MarcialeukiaCo.,” he added.

Scholinger and Enos were both unsuccessful Conservative candidates for governor. Despite hailing from the same party, the two men have butted heads in recent months over politics.

Enos has repeatedly lambasted Scholinger for his performance as mayor of Veroche’s largest city, blaming Scholinger for high taxes, widespread homelessness, and urban unrest.

Scholinger has called Enos “an ego-maniac” and “unsophisticated.”

Griffin overcomes Enos' huge war chest in Veroche gubernatorial primary

SOUTHWICK, Ver. – Despite spending a record $55 million of his own money, and vastly out-spending his opponents, Veroche billionaire Bill Enos has failed in his campaign for the Veroche Conservative Party’s nomination for governor.

Mr. Enos, 68, had been a vocal supporter of US President Donald Trump, and the outspoken and controversial businessman had pledged to shake up Veroche politics similarly to Mr. Trump’s seismic impact on US politics.

But in a special run-off election, Enos was easily routed by his centrist opponent, Red Leaf Mayor MacDonald “Mac” Griffin.

Veroche Secretary of State Suzanne Boyd reported Griffin winning with 56% of the vote compared to Enos’ 44%, respectively.

Mr. Enos initially came in second place in the May 21^st primary election, which featured nine candidates.

In that contest, Griffin came in first place with 22%, followed by Enos with 20%, state Senator Al Paccioli with 18%, and Lanakis Mayor Dick Scholinger with 15 percent, respectively.

Since no candidate reached the 35% threshold in the primary election, Mr. Griffin and Mr. Enos advanced to the run-off election, which was initially scheduled for June 21^st, but was delayed a month because of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Also due to the Coronavirus, for the first time ever in Veroche history, the run-off election was held entirely by mail.

While Griffin was the front-runner in the match-up, there was concern among many party leaders and strategists that Enos would win due to a lower voter turnout and unpredictable Coronavirus factors.

However, despite Enos’ cash advantage and his fired-up supporters, Mr. Griffin quickly obtained endorsements from top Conservative Party officials and colleagues.

Party leadership rapidly coalesced around Griffin, while hard-core Conservatives eagerly backed Enos.

Additionally, some allies of Griffin expressed concerns about his relaxed campaign itinerary. Some suggested he was too tired and lacked the energy to keep up with a busy campaign schedule.

But ultimately, Mr. Enos’ abrasive personality and blustery rhetoric didn’t land with Veroche’s pragmatic Conservative voters. Griffin won the run-off election by almost 130,000 votes.

The popular mayor spoke briefly at his intimate election night party, which was held in his backyard with only a small group of close supporters staying six feet apart.

“Veroche’s Conservative voters have shown the world tonight that money doesn’t buy everything,” he said to applause. “We were outspent nine-to-one. Our opponent spent over $55 million, a record. We raised about $8 million. And yet here we are tonight, we’ve won the primary, and I look forward to winning in December,” said Griffin.

While Griffin’s campaign did only raise $8 million, the Conservative Party, conservative groups and Political Action Committees (PACs) spent over $9 million in advertising promoting Griffin. Nevertheless, even with outside help, Griffin was still vastly out-spent.

At his election night party in downtown Lanakis at his own luxury hotel, where guests were asked to stay six feet apart but the policy was not enforced, Bill Enos accepted the results but not before insulting his rival.

“Mac won, and I congratulate him. I still don’t think he’s the right guy for the job, but the voters chose him, so hopefully he’ll stay awake and have enough energy to beat Tom Harper,” said Enos, in an a dig to Griffin.

Enos also expressed regret at not running as an Independent.

Some states allow an unsuccessful candidate who loses a party primary election to subsequently run as an Independent candidate in the general election.

However, in Veroche, a candidate can run as an Independent, but must file to run as an Independent before the primary election. Candidates are not allowed to run in the partisan primary and then run as an Independent.

“We should’ve just run as an Independent from the start. We would still have a chance if we did that. But at the time it didn’t seem like the right choice, and now it’s too late, so it is what it is,” said Enos.

Asked by a reporter if he would endorse Mr. Griffin in the general election, Mr. Enos replied “we’ll see.”

Now that he’s secured his party’s nomination for governor, Griffin will go on to face incumbent Governor Tom Harper (N) in the December general election.

Little-known Liberal Democrat Leon Pandel is also running.

Recent polls have shown Griffin leading Harper in the December match-up with the incumbent struggling to win over voters amid the economic and health care turmoil caused by Coronavirus shutdowns.

However, like Mr. Enos, Mr. Harper is also a billionaire businessman, and has a seemingly unlimited campaign war chest.

But as Griffin demonstrated this week, sometimes the candidate with the most money does not win.

A spokesman for Tom Harper’s campaign issued a tongue-in-cheek response to reporters following Griffin’s nomination.

“Governor Harper looks forward to having a productive race and discourse with Mac Griffin over the next few months. We (The Harper campaign) are working with the Griffin campaign on nailing down some dates for televised debates, and we are willing to work around Mac’s napping schedule also,” said spokesman Jared Pother.

Griffin campaign spokeswoman Emily Hansen followed up with a more conventional response.

“Tom Harper’s jokes are cute, but they won’t distract voters from his failed economy, his mishandling of the Coronavirus, and his exorbitant “Green New Deal-like” tax increases.”

McCann, Hoffa disavow white nationalist supporters

CROWDERVILLE, Damoign -- He only won about six percent of the vote in the Damoign gubernatorial primary election.

But libertarian businessman Rob McCann outlasted better-funded and better-known candidates in the CNS primary, and he won six counties.

He ultimately lost to former Grassadellia City Mayor and Damoign Governor Sid Hoffa.

But new reports show much of McCann's support came from white nationalist voters.

Several white nationalist leaders posted their support for McCann on social media, and a local newspaper reporter traveled to a rural commune of right-wing, off-the-grid white supremacists in the mountains of southern Damoign. McCann campaign signs were prevalent in the area.

Crowderville's largest newspaper wrote a special piece on the issue - white nationalism in Damoign, and how its supporters coalesced around a libertarian candidate.

The investigation by the newspaper found no evidence that Mr. McCann, a wealthy businessman from the southeastern suburbs of Grassadellia City, knew he was being supported by white nationalist leaders.

McCann's campaign never knowingly took money from white nationalists.

And it appears McCann's campaign had no contact with known members of the white supremacist community.

But critics from the NAT and even some Conservatives say McCann's pro-libertarian and anti-government positions resonated with the small but active group of white supremacist and anti-government activists.

"I don't think Rob McCann is a white supremacist. I don't think he's an end-days doomsdayer. But his campaign positions and messaging really hit home with a lot of those types of people," said one political consultant, who asked for anonymity so as to speak candidly.

McCann has never espoused racist ideology. In fact, he's spoken out strongly against it.

And this week he was forced to condemn it again.

"I have never been involved in white supremacy. I don't know anyone involved in white supremacy, and I have no desire to know anyone involved in white supremacy," said McCann in a radio interview from his home.

"Racism is awful, it's terrible, it has no place in society, and if those types of people voted for me and supported my campaign, then I would reject their support," said McCann.

CNS nominee Sid Hoffa was also asked about the possibility of white nationalists supporting McCann and ultimately supporting Hoffa's campaign.

"Look, Damoign is a diverse state. We have people from every walk of life, every color, every religion here in this state. Racism has no place. We will not tolerate white supremacy in our state and among our campaign. I flat out will reject any attempt or effort by these white nationalist people to support my campaign. I don't want their support, I don't want their vote, I don't want their donations."

Asked to comment, incumbent Gov. Jenna Duvan, a Nationalist who is seeking re-election in 2020, said she was "disturbed" by reports of white nationalists endorsing Conservative candidates.

"I can tell you, I know Sid Hoffa, he is not a racist. I don't know Mr. McCann, but I have no reason to suspect he is a racist. I think both of them are good people who don't hold these views. But it is highly disturbing that we have these groups endorsing Mr. McCann's campaign and now potentially Sid Hoffa's. And I think Sid and Rob McCann have a moral responsibility to call these 'supporters' out publicly and condemn them," said Duvan.

In addition to publicly condemning white supremacy, McCann and Hoffa announced the state Conservative party would investigate the claims. The party is also asking for an official legislative inquiry into white nationalism in Damoign.

Since the early 1900s, the rural, mountainous regions of southern and western Damoign have been hotbeds for white supremacist groups. Though their presence has greatly diminished since the 1970s, several groups and individuals remain active.

A spokesperson for the Crown Police said the agency is constantly monitoring extremist cells and groups across the country, and would continue to monitor the state's known groups.

Deetch says BLM protesters should be ran over

PARKINS, North Ceona -- Former Senator and current candidate for North Ceona governor Pete Deetch is making controversial comments again.

In the past, he's made disparaging remarks about women and minorities.

Now he's going after protesters participating in the Black Lives Matter movement.

Since the May 25 death of George Floyd, a Black man who was killed by police in the United States, US cities have been caught up in both peaceful and violent protests.

Those protests spread to the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and Grassadellia.

While the protests have largely been peaceful, some demonstrations have turned violent, with many cities having bloody clashes with police, and rioters vandalizing businesses and looting from stores.

In Grassadellia, there have been large protests in virtually every medium-to-large sized city, but violence and looting have only been an issue in 10 metros: Grassadellia City, Mavocke, Maine City, Madagen, Monvaille, Lanakis, Lansdale, Bradford, Berivian and Trieton.

And while the protests in his own home state of North Ceona were largely peaceful, former Senator Pete Deetch was very candid about his thoughts on the protests.

"I think the police ought to get in their car and put it in drive and take out a few of those protesters," said Deetch at a campaign meeting on Lawton's south side.

"If these guys want to throw rocks and bottles and smash windows and light cars on fire and attack police cars with baseball bats, then maybe we need to get a little more firm with these people."

Deetch added that "we can't have lawlessness and thugs taking over the streets of our cities."

His comments were immediately condemned by leading Nationalist politicians and even some Conservative colleagues.

Deetch later said he was "joking, of course." But he doubled-down on his comments on keeping law and order.

"I will be damned if I let these radical, left-wing extremist nut jobs take over neighborhoods and cities in this country. I'll be damned if I will let them loot stores and destroy businesses.

"It's the job of the governor to help maintain the peace, and if that means calling in the National Guard, that's what these governors and mayors and the president ought to be doing," said Deetch.

Deetch's fellow Conservative candidates widely criticized his comments.

"Extreme. Inappropriate. Unbecoming comments of a governor," wrote former Senator Ty Jaimeson.

Nationalist candidate Elizabeth Graham said Deetch's comments were "appalling but sadly not surprising."

Asked to clarify his comments later, Deetch told a local news reporter he was "obviously joking" and that people are too sensitive.

"The political correctness in this country has gotten out of control, and we're going to fix that when I'm elected governor," he said.

Deetch is locked in a tight Conservative primary against Jaimeson, Secretary of State Bill Stacey, state Senator Randy Kartchener and businessman Tony Raynor.

The winner of the CNS primary will face either Nationalist Senator Elizabeth Graham or former Attorney General John Ennis.

Jamber, Baxter jump into Trinton governor's race

WILLIAMSTOWN, Tri. -- The crowded race for Trinton's governorship got more crowded today.

Assemblyman Tom Jamber, a centrist Nationalist from the north shore, announced his candidacy. He'll face former Attorney General and 2016 NAT nominee Troy Halver in the September 1 primary election.

On the Conservative side, former Senator Greg Baxter, who lose re-election in 2014, threw his hat into the ring.

Baxter will face another former senator, Kelsey Frascanio, as well as former gubernatorial nominee Jim Valoix, and current Assemblymen Bryan Kim and Mark Bronure.

Halver has a significant money edge over Jamber, but many NAT party elders are unenthused about his candidacy.

Having lost the 2016 election to Democratic-Reformist Marcus Edinough, some feel Halver is not strong enough to beat Edinough in 2020.

Halver has also come under fire from the progressive wing of the party for his more conservative views on the environment, police accountability and crime.

Though he is starting later and has less money, Jamber is more popular among a wider swath of the NAT party. Surrogates of his campaign say the assemblyman from the northern suburbs of Williamstown is a pragmatic leader; progressive enough to satisfy left-wing voters, but moderate enough to not alienate independent and conservative voters.

Jamber told the National Press Federation (NPF) he's running because he feels Marcus Edinough, Troy Halver and the CNS candidates are too conservative.

"Trinton is a Nationalist state. We have twice as many Nationalist voters as Conservative. And yet, our current governor, while he is progressive on some issues, remains very conservative on other issues. Troy Halver is not a mainstream Nationalist, he's quite conservative on many issues also. And the CNS candidates are extremely conservative," said Jamber.

"We need a governor who has strong, reliable, predictable Nationalist values. Someone who will lead our state in line with what the majority of voters want," he added.

Greg Baxter left office in 2014, having lost re-election to the NAT's Grace Kemp.

Since then, the former senator has worked in the private sector as a security analyst and consultant.

He told the Golden Shore Tribune newspaper he decided to run for governor because he felt the other candidates are not strong enough to defeat Marcus Edinough and Troy Halver.

"I have nothing but respect for Kelsey Frascanio and Jim Valoix and Bryan Kim and Mark Bronure. But I don't think any of them can win. That's why I decided to run. We need a winning candidate. They are fine people but we need a strong, tough candidate who can win and who can take on either Halver or Jamber, and Edinough."

According to Trinton law, a candidate must receive at least 40% of the popular vote in order to be elected governor.

If no candidate attains at least 40% of the vote, the top two candidates will advance to a run-off election.

Polling has consistently shown Nationalist Troy Halver winning a plurality in a three-way race against incumbent Gov. Marcus Edinough (DR) and Conservative candidates. However, every poll has found Halver falling short of the 40% minimum required to win out-right.

Because Jamber and Baxter just entered the race, polling on them has been limited.

It appears likely, however, that no matter who wins for each party, a run-off election is virtually guaranteed to ensue.

Asked about the developments in the race, Edinough told reporters he was aware of Jamber's entry into the race, but the governor said he was unaware Baxter even living in Trinton still.

"I haven't seen or heard anything from Greg Baxter since he lost in 2014. I wasn't even aware he was still living in the state," said a surprised Edinough.

The governor added he was surprised by the "volume" of candidates this election, but he is confident he will win re-election.

"The people of Trinton elected me twice as lieutenant governor, they elected me last time as governor. I think most Trintonians agree with me that both of the major parties are fundamentally flawed."

Average turnout in Ansleigha primary; four-way race for governor ahead

RAWLINGSWORTH, Ansleigha -- Despite concerns about Coronavirus and the state's first-ever mail-in election, turnout in Ansleigha's primary election was still at normal levels, Secretary of State Fred Atchison reported Wednesday.

About 40% of voters cast a ballot in Tuesday's primary election.

That's about normal, Atchison said.

Ansleigha is the first state to hold a primary election this year, and amid the Coronavirus, all eyes were on the state to see how well its mail-in election went.

By most accounts, the election was a success.

Atchison says about 80% of voters either mailed their ballots or dropped them off at drop-box locations around the state.

Polling booths were still open for voters who wished to vote in person, but there were far less polling booth locations than usual.

Ansleigha has allowed absentee mail-in voting for years, but this was the first election in which a majority of ballots were cast through the mail.

State officials made the decision to switch to mail-in voting following recommendations from state health officials due to Coronavirus.

Turnout data released by Atchison's office shows slightly more Conservatives voted than Nationalists, but both parties were about even in the number and percentage of turnout.

The marquee race was the governor's race. For the first time since Ansleigha's statehood, there will not be an incumbent governor running for re-election.

The open race initially drew a large field of candidates in both parties, but several dropped out.

On the NAT side, Speaker of the State House Becky Grael won, beating out Carlinegan businessman Russ Hawley and Churchtown Mayor Paul Biddington.

Actor and political newcomer Sam Baskingwood took victory in the Conservative primary, defeating Gilliam car dealership owner Lou Gibbs, Lt. Governor Greg Lyons and Assemblyman Nick Winsich.

In most of the state's other races, only one or two candidates were running, with no major primary showdowns taking place.

Grael's victory is particularly historic. She is the first woman to be nominated for Ansleigha governor by a major party. She is also the first openly LGBTQ person to be nominated in the state for governor.

While she is the first in Ansleigha, Grael is the second openly LGBTQ gubernatorial nominee in the nation. Nationalist Beth Gowan of Monomi was the first LGBTQ nominee for governor of a state in 2014 and 2018, although she lost both elections.

Grael's two primary opponents both endorsed her after conceding.

On the Conservative side, actor Sam Baskingwood was the front-runner throughout the primary race. However, in recent weeks, ultra-conservative and Donald Trump admirer Lou Gibbs attacked Baskingwood relentlessly for being too moderate.

Top Conservative Party officials were concerned the outspoken and controversial Gibbs might upset the more centrist Baskingwood in the primary, but Baskingwood's money advantage helped keep him in the top spot.

Gibbs refused to concede on election night. He finally conceded Wednesday afternoon, saying on Facebook he could never support Baskingwood in the general election.

Instead, Gibbs endorsed another controversial candidate, Nationalist-turned-Independent Rosamond Burkes.

Burkes initially ran for governor as a Nationalist, but half-way through the primary campaign, she dropped out of the NAT race and announced she would run as an Independent.

Though a former Nationalist, Burkes is conservative on many issues. Her rowdy, populist-driven campaign has resonated with both disaffected Nationalist and Conservative voters.

Adding to the confusion, former Senator Paul Ludkte, a Conservative-turned-Democratic Reformist, filed to run for governor on the last day of the filing period.

That means Ansleigha will have a rare four-way race for governor in December.

Nationalist Becky Grael, Conservative Sam Baskingwood, Independent Rosamond Burkes, and Democratic-Reformist Paul Ludtke.

Lutdke has raised little money so far, but as a former senator, he is well-known.

His previous campaigns have focused on lowering taxes, cutting spending and protecting civil liberties.

No polls have been conducted yet on the four-way general election race.

But both the NAT and CNS have signaled they are willing to invest tens of millions of dollars into the battleground state.

And as the wealthy owner of a major mining company, Independent Rosamond Burkes has also said she will use millions of her own money to self-fund her campaign.

Ludtke's campaign is the least-funded of the four, and because of his late start, he is unlikely to raise cash at a comparable level with his three opponents.

But the former senator said he entered the raise at the last second because he felt none of the candidates running would make good governors.

"Sam Baskingwood has no experience whatsoever. Becky Grael has experience, but she is a fiercely partisan, liberal person. And she's entrenched in the establishment. And Rosamond Burkes says racist things and doesn't have the decorum or temperament," Ludtke told GBC Radio. "So I had to jump in the race."

Speaking to his supporters through a Facebook video recorded at his Elmhurst home, Baskingwood said he was the mainstream candidate in a group of extremists.

"What Ansleigha needs right now is a strong, Conservative leader who will lead our state with dignity and common sense," he said.

In a similar video posted on her social media accounts, Grael said her win was a sign that Ansleighans want change.

"We heard you loud and clear tonight, with our history-making result," Grael told supporters. "We're going to take our win tonight and keep it going to December and make history again when we become Ansleigha's next governor."

As an Independent candidate, Rosamond Burkes didn't have to compete against any primary opponents Tuesday night. But she posted a video on her Facebook page thanking those voters who did vote for her on the Independent ballot. And she took aim at Baskingwood and Grael.

"Sam and Becky are both celebrating tonight, but their party won't last, because we're going to win this December and we're going to win big. And when we do, it will shock the political establishment in both of the 'lame-stream' parties," said a riled Burkes.

While it's common for states to have multiple candidates for governor, it's rare to have four well-known and popular candidates.

Most races typically have two well-known candidates and several little-known, minor party candidates who get only a handful of votes.

Because of the historic and unusual nature of the Ansleigha governor's race, it will be difficult to predict a certain outcome in the December general election.

Ansleigha is a notorious battleground state with a roughly equal number of Conservative, Nationalist and Independent voters.

Because of the unusual factors, and the uncertainty surrounding the Coronavirus situation, most pollsters are rating the Ansleigha governor's race as a "Toss Up."

**Official Primary Election Results -- Ansleigha Governor's Race**

CNS

Sam Baskingwood	35.41%	265,227
Lou Gibbs	29.57%	221,505
Greg Lyons	19.38%	145,174
Nick Winsich	15.64%	117,157

NAT

Becky Grael	37.07%	268,335
Russ Hawley	33.45%	242,106
Paul Biddington	29.48%	213,342

Duvan to face predecessor Hoffa in Damoign governor's race

GRASSADELLIA CITY -- Former Damoign Governor Sid Hoffa has won the Conservative Party's primary election in his quest to reclaim his old position.

In a crowded race, Hoffa won with just under 20 percent of the vote. He was followed closely behind by former National Security Secretary Robert Austin, who secured 19.5 percent. And just like in the 2016 election, downstate Assemblywoman Pat Leemore took third place, with 18.6 percent.

Assemblyman Brian Tyker of central Damoign came in fourth place with 14.8 percent. The other five candidates received eight percent or less.

Under Damoign election laws, a candidate does not have to receive a majority of the votes in an election. A simple plurality is enough to be elected or win a party's nomination.

However, this year, concerns about the Coronavirus pandemic presented challenges to the normal voting process.

Concerned the pandemic would discourage people from voting, party leaders voted to allow mail-in votes for all voters for the first time.

In another historic first, the party's board of directors also voted to allow ranked-choice or preferential voting.

This system, where voters pick their first choice candidate, then their second choice, then their third, etc., has never been used in a major, statewide race in Damoign before by either party.

All the votes that were initially cast for the other seven candidates besides Hoffa and Austin were re-tabulated and re-assigned to either Hoffa or Austin.

With all the votes recounted and alternate choices assigned, Hoffa earned 54% of the total votes, while Austin won 46 percent.

Though the results were non-binding, with a majority of voters choosing through the ranked choice process backing Hoffa, the former Grassadellia City mayor and governor was able to claim a mandate.

In a Facebook video on his page, Hoffa thanked Austin and the other candidates for a "lively" primary election. He turned his focus immediately on incumbent Governor Jenna Duvan (N), who is seeking re-election.

"We've had a hard-fought primary race," said Hoffa. "Now it's over. We can come together as a party and work together to beat the socialist Nationalists in December."

Duvan is not a socialist, but with the governor shutting down businesses and schools due to the Coronavirus in recent weeks, Conservative politicians have begun to use the label against her.

Hoffa's victory means he will face off against Duvan in the fall general election.

No recent polling has been done on the race, but a prior poll found Hoffa trailing Duvan.

Though her popularity has slipped during the virus somewhat, Duvan remains relatively popular, and has won praise from members of both parties for her proactive leadership during the outbreak.

Hoffa say Duvan is too focused on image and self-promoting her "Instagram, picture-perfect brand."

"We need a governor, not a social media star," Hoffa said in his Facebook video Tuesday night.

Duvan did not comment on Hoffa's securing of the CNS nomination.

Robert Austin did concede the race to Hoffa and offered an endorsement.

"Sid Hoffa knows this state well, and he cares about Damoign, and he has the leadership to take our state forward," said Austin.

The other Conservative gubernatorial candidates have all endorsed Hoffa.

-----**Official Results**-----

Candidates	Residence	Votes	Percentage	Counties Won
Sid Hoffa	Victoria	420,298	19.91%	14
Robert Austin	Fairside	412,289	19.53%	7
Pat Leemore	Bragdon	393,622	18.65%	13
Brian Tyker	Riverton	312,283	14.79%	8
John DeGallio	Tolston	168,856	8.00%	0
Rob McCann	Gregorson	131,852	6.25%	6
Andrew Liang	Eastholm	121,851	5.77%	0
Kim Camden	Kinslow	112,587	5.33%	0
Rob Poldashi	Larche	37,418	1.77%	0
	Total	2,111,056
Ranked Choice Voting Results  --  Non-Binding
	Sid Hoffa	1,130,605	53.56%
	Robert Austin	980,451	46.44%

DeGallio drops out of Damoign governor's race, endorses Tyker

TOLSTON -- Another Conservative candidate has dropped out of the Damoign governor's race.

After the latest round of voting Tuesday, Assemblyman John DeGallio of Tolston announced he was ending his campaign.

"There is no way I can win the nomination at this point," he conceded in a small press conference outside his district office.

"But there are still four candidates left who have a shot at winning, and I want to help clear the way for Brian Tyker," said DeGallio.

Tyker is a young assemblyman from south-central Damoign. Both he and DeGallio are strong social and fiscal conservatives.

"While I respect Secretary [Bob] Austin, and I think he would make a great governor, I think Brian Tyker is the best choice to represent our party in December. He's young, he's got energy, he's got the ability to bring people together, and he has the ability to go toe-to-toe with Jenna Duvan," said DeGallio.

Sources close to DeGallio say he considered endorsing former National Security Secretary Bob Austin, but ultimately decided on Tyker.

DeGallio was less inclined to endorse former Governor Sid Hoffa or Assemblywoman Pat Leemore, both who are more socially moderate.

DeGallio's exit from the race does clear the way somewhat for Tyker, who will be the only social conservative in the race.

However, as of Tuesday night, 59% of the state's registered Conservative voters had already cast ballots, and Tyker remained in fourth place with 14.4 percent.

Austin remains in first place, with 18.9%, while Hoffa and Leemore follow with 17.4% and 17.1%, respectively.

DeGallio was in a distant fifth place with nine percent.

Businessman Rob McCann remains in the race and has ignored calls for him to drop out, even though he trails significantly with only seven percent.

State Rep. Andrew Liang, former Treasury Department official Kim Camden, and businessman Rob Poldashi have already ended their campaigns.

Liang endorsed Tyker, Camden is backing Leemore and Poldashi has thrown his support to McCann.

Though the majority of ballots have already been cast, with the race as close as it is, much could still change in the coming weeks as the remaining counties hold elections.

Convicted murderer set to receive death penalty, Monomi governor declines to grant clemency

TRIETON -- A convicted killer is slated to be put to death in Monomi Wednesday night.

Brutus A. Conlin, 39, is scheduled to receive a lethal injection at the Monomi State Prison in Lombard.

Death penalty opponents had urged Monomi Gov. Will Huxton to intervene and grant Conlin clemency, but a spokesperson for Huxton said the governor will not intervene.

"Gov. Huxton has reviewed Mr. Conlin's case and has determined there is not sufficient reason to warrant clemency in his case," said the governor's office.

Conlin was convicted of fatally shooting two clerks at a south Trieton convenience store in 1997 during a robbery. He later admitted to the crime and said he had no remorse.

He was sentenced to death by a Kingfisher County jury in 1998.

Multiple appeals to the Monomi Court of Appeals and the Federal Supreme Court were rebuffed.

The Federal Supreme Court declined to grant a stay Wednesday afternoon.

Conlin will be the first person to receive the death penalty in Monomi since 2016.

Liang, Camden drop out of Damoign governor's race

GREENEWOOD, Dmg. -- About a third of votes have been cast in the Damoign Conservative governor's primary race.


Fifteen of the state's 48 counties have voted so far, and the results have been disappointing for state Rep. Andrew Liang (Eastholm) and former Treasury official Kim Camden.

Both garnered just over 7 percent of the votes, far behind front-runners Bob Austin, Sid Hoffa, Pat Leemore and Brian Tyker.

Liang, a little-known state representative from Eastholm, announced he would end his campaign for governor and will instead seek the state's lieutenant governorship.

"The path the governorship is a very difficult one, but the path to becoming lieutenant governor is a lot more doable," said Liang, at a campaign rally in his hometown neighborhood of Nelly, Eastholm.

The 37-year-old, Chinese-Grassadellian brought a much-needed bit of diversity to the Conservative race. All other candidates are white, and only one woman is left in the race.

If Liang wins the CNS primary for lieutenant governor, he'll face incumbent Lt. Gov. Jeff Zeme (N) in December.

Also dropping out of the Conservative governor's race today was Kim Camden, who served in the Treasury Department under former President Dan Byelle.

Camden, 44, had never ran for office before. The Daintree mother of three was hoping her experience at the federal level would win her votes with pragmatic Conservatives who want a "nuts and bolts" governor.

"It just didn't turn our way," said Camden, at a small gathering with supporters in Daintree, an upscale suburb west of Grassadellia City.

Camden will end her campaign, and will instead consider running for the National Assembly or for secretary of state. She is also considering running for local office in the western suburbs.

"It didn't work out this time, but there are plenty of elections to come, plenty of races ahead, so this is not the end for me or for Andrew Liang by any stretch of the imagination," she said.

Neither Liang or Camden have said which candidate they will endorse.

With about a third of votes cast so far and 15 of the state's 48 counties having voted already, former National Security Secretary Bob Austin leads the race with 18%, followed closely by former Governor Sid Hoffa (17%), Assemblywoman Pat Leemore (15%) and Assemblyman Brian Tyker (14%).

Vote Totals - Damoign Conservative Gubernatorial Primary Election (34% of votes cast)

- Robert Austin     18%     127,741 votes
- Sid Hoffa            17%     120,488
- Pat Leemore       15%     108,704
- Brian Tyker        14%     103,126
- John DeGallio    11%       77,534 
- Andrew Liang      7%       51,971
- Kim Camden        7%       51,112
- Rob McCann        7%       47,485
- Rob Poldashi        3%       20,185

 

Brian Tyker says wife was 'not happy' after he joked about Jenna Duvan's sexy outfits

COLUMBUS, Dmg. -- Earlier this week at a Conservative debate, candidates for governor were asked about Damoign Governor Jenna Duvan's wardrobe.

A former model, Duvan is known to wear mini skirts, stilettos and tight blouses. Her outfits have drawn criticism from pro-family politicians, who say her clothing choices are inappropriate for a governor.

During the Conservative gubernatorial debate, Assemblyman Brian Tyker garnered attention when he jokingly said he had "no complaints" about Duvan's outfits and that she "looks great."

Women's rights activists called out Tyker for comments they say objectify women for their appearance.

"Brian Tyker and other male politicians belittle women when they evaluate them and judge them only on their appearance and what type of sexy clothing they wear," said Alanna Johnson, a prominent women's rights activist from New Upton.

Tyker was forced to address his comments today. Multiple reporters asked if he regretted his comments.

"Some people are saying your comments about Jenna Duvan's appearance and her outfits were sexist, demeaning to women and objectifying. Do you agree your comments were inappropriate and do you regret them?" reporter Danisha Rusha asked.

"My comments were stupid," Tyker admitted. "They were meant as a joke, but they were stupid. I shouldn't have made them."

His comments were not inappropriate, however, he said.

"I don't think they were objectifying or demeaning to women. All I meant was the governor is attractive and she dresses nicely. I'm a man. When I see attractive women, I notice. But my comments were meant with disrespect, they were meant to be a light-hearted joke," the assemblyman said.

Tyker's wife was "not happy" with his comments, however.

"She did not appreciate that part of the debate, and rightfully so. It was disrespectful to her. And for that I do regret what I said."

Tyker is not the first politician to be criticized for "sexist" comments related to Jenna Duvan.

Businessman John Brumley, a Nationalist who briefly flirted with running against Duvan in the NAT primary, came under fire in August 2019 for saying Damoign needed a governor with "less vanity" who "isn't focused on image and celebrity" but on the issues.

Allies of Duvan called out Brumley at the time for his comments, which they perceived to be sexist.

Duvan has said little about her wardrobe, only making jokes at campaign rallies.

"Is this outfit appropriate, what do you think?" she playfully asked the audience at a campaign rally in Eastholm last month.

The governor also raffled off a pair of her stilettos for charity last month. The name-brand, custom-designed shoes sold for $140,000 to an anonymous buyer.

Mercer Diego endorses Brian Tyker for Damoign governor

MATTINOW, Dmg. -- Damoign's most prominent Conservative has made an endorsement in the party's crowded field of gubernatorial candidates.

Mercer Diego, a former lieutenant governor and two-time failed candidate for governor, endorsed Assemblyman Brian Tyker over the weekend.

Tyker's campaign released a video on Facebook of the two men meeting at Tyker's home in Stoltschwin County, south of Grassadellia City.

In the video, the two are seen shaking hands, while Diego puts his arm around Tyker and offers praise for the young assemblyman.

"I've known Brian Tyker for years, he's a good man, a good husband, dad, and he will make a great governor for Damoign," says Diego.

Tyker thanked Diego for his support, calling him the "father of the Conservative Party in our state."

Though he lost two back-to-back races for governor, Diego remains immensely popular among Conservatives, many who feel he was robbed, as he narrowly lost both races to controversial NAT opponents.

Diego's endorsement is a major feather in Tyker's camp. There are currently nine candidates in the running for the CNS party's nomination for governor. A high-profile endorsement from a popular figure might help solidify Tyker's status as a major contender.

The front-runner in the race so far appears to be Assemblywoman Pat Leemore of Bragdon County.

Leemore is a noted moderate, and in a salty statement, a spokesman for her campaign said she never expected to receive Diego's endorsement.

"Quite frankly, Mercer Diego represents the past. He ran for governor twice and lost both times. If we want to look to the future, we should look to Pat Leemore and other pragmatic Conservatives instead of failed hardliners who alienate independents," said spokesman Jared Walsh.

Tyker, who is younger and more socially conservative, is among the top four candidates, polls show. Former National Security Secretary Robert Austin and businessman Rob McCann hold second and third place, respectively, according to recent polling.

Rounding out the top five is Assemblyman John DeGallio of Columbus.

Polls show former Governor Sid Hoffa is struggling to break into the top tier.

Diego's endorsement of Tyker is especially damning for Hoffa, who served as governor with Diego while the latter served as lieutenant governor.

Additionally, Hoffa enthusiastically supported Diego's first run for governor in 2012.

Hoffa was somewhat reluctant to support Diego when he ran a second time in 2016, but the former governor finally came around and campaigned for Diego.

"Mercer Diego endorsing Brian Tyker is a huge slap in the face to Sid Hoffa," said former Conservative Party official Brian Mitchell, who worked for the party during Hoffa's tenure.
"It's as if Mercer Diego has forgotten about all the work and campaigning and support Hoffa gave him over the last decade."

The two men were never close. Hoffa has long been a moderate, while Diego has been an outspoken social conservative.

Still, Mitchell said, the two men enjoyed a close friendship at one point, and they served well together.

"I think 2016 is when their relationship started to turn. Sid Hoffa waited until the very last second to endorse Mercer Diego. Hoffa wanted to see another candidate run instead, he was concerned Mercer would lose a second time around. And he did," said Mitchell.

Asked by reporters Monday night about the snub, Hoffa said Diego's endorsement is "his alone to make."

"Mercer has every right to endorse who he wants. Obviously, he feels another, lesser-known candidate is the better choice. I respectfully disagree with him. But that's the beauty of this country, we can disagree and have our own opinion," said Hoffa.

Diego released a statement also, saying through a spokesperson that he was throwing his support to Tyker because the assemblyman "champions conservative, family values, has the youth and energy to be governor, and will foster a pro-business environment in the state."

Jenna Duvan's wardrobe and sexism take center stage at Damoign CNS debate

COLUMBUS, Dam. -- If the Damoign Conservative gubernatorial debate was a fiesta, incumbent NAT Governor Jenna Duvan would have been the pinata.

Conservative candidates went after Duvan all night, as they sought to score political points and build political capital with Conservative voters in the run-up to the 2020 election.

Duvan is seeking re-election, the first governor allowed to do so since the 1980s after a recent and controversial amendment to the state's constitution.

And there's no shortage of Conservative candidates seeking to challenge her.

All nine gathered for their first debate in Columbus, a strongly conservative city in south-central Damoign.

They largely agreed on main policy points. All were critical of Duvan's leadership. All called out the state Nationalist Party as corrupt and unwilling to be bipartisan. All espoused tax cuts and a pro-business platform.

But the debate took a bizarre turn when moderator Alex Syncott, a local news anchor, asked Assemblywoman Pat Leemore if she approved of Jenna Duvan's wardrobe.

"Governor Duvan has been criticized by some people for wearing mini-skirts. They say it's inappropriate for a governor to wear clothing they consider to be provocative and suggestive. Do you approve of her clothing choices? Is it appropriate for a female governor to dress this way?" Syncott asked.

"I'm not really sure what that has to do with this debate," said a surprised Leemore. "We're here tonight to talk about issues. The economy, education, transportation, healthcare, the environment. I'm not sure what Jenna Duvan's dress selection has to do with being governor, but since you asked I'll answer it," she said, to a smattering of applause.

She then answered the question directly, saying it's important for a governor, male or female, to dress professionally.

"But if Governor Duvan wants to wear mini-skirts and low-cut tops, that's up to her. I wouldn't wear them, personally. But I'm not a young model in my thirties either," said Leemore, shrugging her shoulders, as the audience erupted in laughter.

She added that Duvan looks good. "

She has a fantastic body and she looks very chic and slender and attractive in her clothes. So if it looks good on you, then why not?"

Fellow female candidate Kim Camden, a former Federal Treasury official who served in the Byelle administration, was also asked the same question.

"I want to say first that I don't think it's fair that women are asked about their apparel and what they wear, while men get a free pass," said Camden. "It's indicative of the double-standard on this issue."

Nevertheless, Camden said it's important for female leaders to dress appropriately.

"I have three daughters, and when my little girls see the governor or a senator or an assemblywoman on the TV or the news, I want them to see a strong role model, who is dressed professionally and not in a way that objectifies the woman's body. As female politicians, we need to be mindful of the message that we send to young girls about body image and respect in the workplace."

None of the seven male candidates wanted to answer the same question posed to Leemore and Camden.

However, Assemblyman Brian Tyker chimed in, and joked that Duvan "looks great" and he had "no complaints" about her wardrobe.

The Conservative-friendly audience largely laughed at the episode, but some candidates, such as former National Security Director Robert Austin and businessmen Rob McCann and Rob Poldashi, expressed discomfort.

After the debate, Eva Magoto, a female news anchor who participated in the debate but did not ask questions pertaining to the topic, also spoke out.

"It doesn't matter what party you belong to, if you're a woman, you should never have your clothing and appearance dissected on live television," she tweeted.

Many viewers and Nationalist Party activists called out Brian Tyker for his comment.

"Cat-calling Jenna Duvan during a televised debate. I think we've reached a new level of doucheness," wrote one user on Twitter.

Another called Tyker out directly.

"Brian Tyker's comment at tonights (sic) debate is exactly what is wrong with male privilege and the male rape culture in this country," the tweet read.

Duvan herself did not comment on the matter, but a spokesperson for her campaign sent a written statement to the media.

"If Conservative candidates spent half as much time focusing on healthcare and education and fair housing as they do on Jenna Duvan's wardrobe, they might actually have something to offer the people of Damoign.

"Instead, they resort to cheap, sexist attacks on Governor Duvan. They can't assail her policies or her leadership, so they go after her for being a former model, for dressing nicely, for being attractive, and for wearing skirts and stilettos.

"The people of Damoign see right through this gender stereotyping. This type of behavior just confirms what we already know about the Conservative Party - they are stuck in the 1950s and want to take women back to the era of oppression and male-dominated culture."

Pat Leemore's campaign later released a statement on Facebook, saying the assemblywoman believes all women should be treated with dignity and not "judged for what they wear."


The other candidates, who largely stayed out of the controversy while on-stage, also spoke out after the debate ended.

"Our state is falling apart. The Nationalists have absolutely wrecked our tax system, our constitutional sanctity, our education system, our infrastructure. And we spent ten or fifteen minutes tonight during the debate talking about Jenna Duvan's skirts. I just think it's ridiculous. Where are our priorities?" asked Rob McCann, a businessman and political newcomer from southern Damoign.

"I don't think the voters care about what Jenna Duvan wears," said businessman Rob Poldashi, also a political newcomer, from Larche County.

State Rep. Andrew Liang, from Eastholm, said that portion of the debate was "more like a celebrity gossip show."


Assemblyman John DeGallio voiced a similar sentiment, and also impressed reporters with his knowledge of reality TV.

"This isn't 'Project Runway.' It's not 'Say Yes To The Dress' or 'What Not To Wear.' This is the governorship of Damoign that we're talking about, said DeGallio.

Former Grassadellia City Mayor Sid Hoffa tried to avoid the issue altogether.

"I think debates should focus on the issues, not on personalities and the personal lives of the candidates," said Hoffa, declining to elaborate.

Notorious killer paroled by Damoign Parole Board, prompting backlash

ELLSBURY, Damoign -- One of Damoign's most notorious murderers was released from prison today by the state's parole board.

Dennis Edward Murphy was released from the Farris Creek Correctional Center southeast of Grassadellia City Tuesday afternoon.

Murphy, age 78, was granted a medical release due to terminal cancer.

He will live with his nephew at an undisclosed location in the state, according to the Damoign Department of Corrections.

Murphy was convicted in 1977 of killing five prostitutes in east Grassadellia City over a two-year period.

The killings were particularly violent. Two of his victims were strangled, two were stabbed, and one shot.

All five victims' bodies were mutilated after death.

While Murphy did take money and belongings of the victims, police do not believe robbery was a motive. The murders were deemed to be thrill-killings.

Police at the time said Murphy may have additional unknown victims.

Murphy was convicted of all five murders and originally sentenced to death, but in 1998, a state judge overturned the death sentence on procedural technicalities during Murphy's trial. He was then issued a life prison term.

Murphy's attorneys say their client has dementia and has only months to live after being diagnosed with lung cancer. He requires 24-hour care and cannot live alone, they say.

As part of the conditions of his release, Murphy will not be allowed to leave the state of Damoign. He must check in weekly with a parole officer. He cannot live close to schools, libraries, public parks or day care centers.

His family celebrated his release, thanking the parole board for allowing Murphy to live out his final days in the company and care of loved ones.

But his release spurred intense anger from the victims' families and from Conservative and Nationalist politicians alike.

"My mom didn't get to live out her final days in the company of family. She lived her final moments chained to a bed tortured to death by this monster," said Sarah Goos, whose mother Emily Daughten was Murphy's second victim.

Tough-on-crime politicians also lambasted the parole board's decision.

"It's unfathomable that a serial killer, who not only murdered innocent women but tortured and mutilated their bodies, could be released on compassionate grounds," said state Senator Joe Bruno, a Conservative from Tolston.

"What does it say to the victims' families and to the people of our state when an unelected board releases violent criminals back into the community? Where is the justice for the victims?" state Sen. Steve Ralman, Conservative from east Kentwick, said in a radio interview Tuesday night.

Nationalist state Senator Hank Colland, who represents Evanter, was also dismayed.

"I understand that we want to be compassionate to ailing incarcerants, and we have compassion for those who are suffering from debilitating diseases, but that has to be weighed against the gravity of the crimes the person committed," he told the STAR Network's Joe Candolla.

"I think in this case, this individual, while he may be very ill and may not have much time left to live, he really should not be released. He may not be much of a threat to the community in his current state, being very ill. But it's the principle of it. The victims' families deserve justice. They were told this man would be in prison for life and now that promise has been broken, and the pain of those crimes comes flooding back.

Governor Jenna Duvan (N) has not commented on Murphy's release. Her office declined to comment, though a spokesperson said Duvan would speak on the matter later this week.

Duvan is a former prosecutor who sent many convicted criminals to death row. She remains supportive of the death penalty in extreme cases, however, under her administration, executions have slowed.

Conservative politicians jumped all over the issue on social media Tuesday, saying the decision to release Murphy proves Duvan, who is seeking re-election in December, is soft on crime.

"This is sadly what the Nationalist Party has become today. Nationalist politicians like Jenna Duvan give more rights to convicted serial killers than they do to the hard-working citizens and taxpayers of our state," the Damoign Conservative Party said in a post on Facebook.

Rosamond Burkes: Young Black men need better role models

KOLLANDON, Ans. -- Another debate, another controversy surrounding Nationalist candidate Rosamond Burkes.

The wealthy, elderly businesswoman, who is running for Ansleigha governor, is known for her controversial comments about race.

During a governor debate in 2016, she called Black Lives Matter protesters "thugs" and said police were right to use force to bring them under control at violent demonstrations.

This year, she's seeking the governorship again, and again, at Monday night's debate in Kollandon, Burkes ventured into controversial territory with her latest remarks on race.


"Today in this country, we have young Black boys who grow up without a dad, their mothers are working two or three jobs to provide for their family, because dad walked out or is in prison. So these young boys grow up with no supervision, they turn to the streets and the gang culture, which is all they've got, because they don't have that family support they need.

"And then their role models are rap artists, who are thugs and drug addicts and they write songs about shooting people, they write lyrics calling women 'bitches' and 'whores' and 'sluts.'

"Young black boys grow up in this sort of environment, and then we wonder why they're angry, why they're violent, why they hate police, why they deal drugs, why they end up in prison, why they're abusive toward women."

"When you have no dad at home and mom's working multiple jobs and all the older boys on your street are dealing drugs and doing drive-bys and pimping girls, and your idols you look up to are rap singers who espouse violence and degrade women, it's clear why young Black men have run-ins with police and have higher crime rates. It makes sense why young Black women have so many children out of wedlock and are on welfare. It's not rocket science here," said Burkes.

Moderator Jason Jones pushed back, challenging Burkes to offer evidence that young Black men are more prone to criminal activity.

She dodged the question.

"I'm not saying that these problems only exist in the Black community. They don't, they exist in Latino communities and Arab communities and White Communities and Indigenous communities. I'm not picking on Black people here, but I am saying that the Black community needs better role models for their young men.

"We shouldn't be glorifying these rap artists who do drugs and shoot people and violate women. We shouldn't be celebrating these guys and lifting them up in our society. They're not heroes. They're not worth celebrating. They're thugs. They're gangsters. They're pigs.

"Anybody who talks like that to a woman and treats a woman that way is a disgusting pig in my book.

 She continued.

"I'll tell you what Jason, if one of those thugs walked up to me with his pants falling off his butt, smelling like marijuana, and called me one of those obscene words, I'd shove one of my heels up his sorry ass so fast he won't even see it coming.

"He better hope his buddies are there to help him, because he'll need help walking when I'm done with him."

There was a mix of raucous laughter and disbelief at that last specific exchange, but most of her remarks were met with confused and disapproving looks from her fellow candidates, and a small spattering of applause from the audience, who were on the edge of their seats during her seemingly off-the-cuff commentary.

"I'm not quite sure where to begin after that," said moderator Dick Clemson, a local TV News anchor from Kollandon.

"There's a lot to unpack in what you just said there, Ms. Burkes," added Clemson's anchor partner, Kate Crispell.

Churchtown Mayor Paul Biddington raised his hand, asking to speak.

Turning to Burkes, Biddington admonished her words.

"I'd like to go on the record and say that what you just said, Rosamond, was filled with stereotypes and dog-whistle phrases, it's not based on facts, it's based on fear and the fear-mongering that White elites have been doing for so long in this country," he said to wide applause from the audience. "And I want everyone up on this stage to reject what she just said."

Fellow candidate Becky Grael, speaker of the State House of Representatives, shook her head in mutual disbelief and disapproval.

"It's really, really disappointing that we have a candidate in this race who is falling for and spewing these racist talking points," said Grael. "There is no room on this stage, or in this party, for this kind of racism. If that's the kind of campaign you're going to run, you're in the wrong party."

Again, resounding applause.

Moderate businessman Russ Hawley was less critical and more diplomatic in his response. Courting many of the same moderate and conservative voters Burkes appeals to, he was more cautious in his criticism.

"I think you made some valid points, Rosamond. We do have a crisis of family support and poverty and drugs in many of our minority neighborhoods. But there are many reasons for this, and to point at one specific group and repeat stereotypes and unfounded, unsupported claims about increased crime rates, increased predisposition to crime and abuse, that's not true, it's not the temperament we need in our next governor, and it's not representative of the values of the Nationalist party," said Hawley.

After the debate, the Ansleigha Nationalist Party released an official statement condemning Burkes' comments.

"The ANP does not support or condone the racist and misleading comments that Rosamond Burkes made at Monday night's debate. The ANP fully rejects Ms Burke's words. We value the Black community. We recognize that systemic racism and historic oppression continue to hold back the Black community, as well as other minority groups, and we celebrate the leaders in the Black community and our Black celebrities who have fought for equality and racial justice."

Anticipating the fallout from her comments, the Burkes campaign released a fundraising email directly after the debate.

"Rosamond spoke the truth about problems in the Black community. She said what the politically-correct politicians are too afraid to say. It's a tough topic, but she's not afraid to confront it. And now the Nationalist Party elites, the liberal establishment and the "Fake News" media are attacking her for saying the truth."

The email then asks readers to donate to the Burkes campaign and provides a link to her website.

"Will you stand with Rosamond and fight back against the political correctness and stupidity of the party elites? If we can't have freedom of speech and speak openly and honestly about society's problems, we don't live in a free country anymore, we live in a censored dictatorship. Help Rosamond continue the fight against political correctness and the elites!"

The fundraising email was sent out 45 minutes after the debate ended, prompting some critics to speculate if Burkes planned ahead of time to make the controversial comments at the debate.

A spokesperson for her campaign denied that claim, saying Rosamond "always speaks off the cuff."

Burkes is known for her outspoken, unfiltered and colorful comments.

A lifelong Nationalist, as a young woman, she was an ardent feminist and anti-war protester.

Now, as a candidate for governor, she remains a strong feminist and anti-war activist, but over the years, she has become more right-wing on issues of race and law and order.

Some have suggested Burkes' views would be more welcomed in the Conservative Party, but she's been openly critical of Conservatives too, in addition to her own party.

Despite being asked to pledge to support whoever wins the NAT nomination, Burkes has declined to do so and has hinted she may quit the NAT and run as an Independent or third-party candidate.

Should she choose to do so, it's unclear which party would be more adversely affected by her candidacy. Polls show she appeals to working-class Nationalists from rural areas, so she could steal votes from the NAT. However, she draws widespread support from many Conservative voters too, which could siphon votes from the CNS candidate.

The most recent poll showed Burkes in fourth place in the NAT primary race, however, since that poll, several candidates, including Attorney General Jon Erickson, have dropped out. No polls featuring the four remaining candidates have been conducted yet.

Al Paccioli brings down the house at Veroche CNS debate: 'I'm a tough son of a bitch'

SOUTHWICK, Ver. -- There were a lot of laughs at the first Conservative gubernatorial debate in Veroche tonight.

The stage was crowded as all nine candidates - all men and all white except for one - hashed out their positions on a variety of issues.

But the topic that dominated the evening was bashing incumbent NAT Governor Tom Harper.

Mac Griffin, 74, the mayor of Red Leaf and current front runner in the race, gave Harper credit for an improving economy, but said it could be "even better" under Conservative leadership.

Multiple candidates, including Lanakis Mayor Dick Scholinger, cited the high cost of living as contradictory to the state's strong economy.

Scholinger was interrupted by moderator Greg Jones, who questioned if the mayor was partially responsible for the high cost of living in his own city.

"It's happened on your watch, while you've been in office," said Jones.

The "exorbitant" cost of living has been a problem for decades, Scholinger said.

"It preceded my time in office, and quite frankly, it preceded Tom Harper's time in office too. This is a problem that started a long time ago and no one at the state level has done anything to fix it."

Scholinger also took credit for reducing taxes and cutting regulation as mayor, something businessman Bill Enos took issue with.

"No you didn't, Dick. You raised taxes and increased regulation. I know because I've built many buildings in Lanakis and done lots of real estate transactions there. Your city is a mess," said Enos, a political newcomer and self-funded billionaire candidate.

Gen. Greggory Jordan, also a political newcomer and the former director of the Trewallen Military Academy, was asked if his lack of civilian employment would hinder his success as governor, if elected.

"Serving in the military provides you with a lot of useful life experience. It teaches you how to lead, how to manage, how to handle conflict, how to delegate, how to solve a problem. The military has more than prepared me to be governor," said Jordan.

But the comment that drew the most laughs and interest of the night was from state Senator Artemis "Al" Paccioli (pronounced "Puh-chull-ee").

"We need a tough candidate to beat Tom Harper," Paccioli said, pausing momentarily. "And I'm a tough son of a bitch," he said, chuckling.

"And no, I'm not in the mafia," he added.

His colorful comments were met with raucous laughter and applause from the audience and from his fellow candidates on stage.

 Later on, libertarian-leaning Assemblyman Vaughn Laudney of Boyervosse told the crowd "I'm a tough son of a gun too," referencing Paccioli's earlier comments.

Paccioli interjected. "It doesn't sound as good when you say it," he said to laughs.

The candidate with the least speaking time was state Sen. Mark Holworth of Dishpry, an eastern suburb of Lanakis.

Holworth has served more time in the Veroche state legislature than any of the other candidates. He was asked by moderator Greg Jones if his legislative experience made him better prepared to be governor than his rivals.

"I think so. A big part of being governor is knowing the key players, knowing who the important state representatives and state senators are, and knowing the important factions in our state legislature. I know all those people because I've been working with them for years. I think that gives me a leg up," said Holworth, who has struggled to raise his profile amid bigger-name candidates.

Collettasville Mayor Tom Settler was asked what he would bring to the governorship, if elected.

"A backbone," he said, to applause. "We need a committed Conservative, not a wishy-washy Conservative who will change positions and cave to the NAT," said the little-known and low-polling Settler.

The evening drew to a close with more laughs, as Jones addressed Don Christaman, an assemblyman from Touleville in north-central Veroche.

"Assemblyman Christaman, you received the least support of any candidate in the most recent poll, only 2.5 percent. You've ran for statewide office multiple times and failed each time. Why are you running for governor then? Your track record isn't good. Do you really think you have a chance at winning the governorship?"

Some laughs and murmurs from the audience were audible, as the assemblyman paused to answer.

"Well thanks for that question, Greg," said Christaman, half-laughing and half-annoyed.

"I think it's an unfair question, especially since Dick Scholinger also has ran for statewide office multiple times and failed too. You didn't ask him that question, you only asked me, but I'll go ahead and answered it since you asked."

"I absolutely think I can win. I wouldn't be running if I didn't think I could. And unlike some of the guys up on this stage, I'm not a wavering Conservative. I'm not a moderate. I'm a true, strong Conservative, and my Conservative values will always stay the same and stay true. I won't compromise my beliefs just to get elected."

The much-watched debate showed, however, that the Veroche Conservative Party will have to pick between a more moderate, centrist candidate or a hard-line, right-wing nominee.

Veroche is a liberal state, so more partisan candidate will likely have more difficulty winning in December.

Party leaders are privately hoping a more centrist candidate such as Griffin, Scholinger, Jordan or Paccioli will win over the more provocative and right-wing Enos, Laudney, Settler or Christaman.

Few endorsements have been made so far in the race.

Former CNS nominee Brad Davidson has declined to make an endorsement yet, though sources close to him say he would be satisfied with any of the candidates except the outspoken and bellicose Bill Enos.


Several right-wing activists and personalities have endorsed Enos, who has been compared to US President Donald Trump for his demeanor and politically-incorrect commentary.

Despite his reputation as a loud-mouth, Enos didn't dominate the night, however.

That honor goes to Al Paccioli, the little-known state senator and owner of a dry cleaners business from Deniece.

After the debate, Paccioli was trending on Google, Yahoo and Twitter.

His campaign immediately sent out a fundraising email after the debate, capitalizing on his moment in the spotlight.