Gutmeier, Cobb Considering Assembly Bids

East Deschire state lawmwakers may run for National Assembly

CHRISTENKERR, EDS--It's only September 2009, more than a year away from the December 2010 mid-term election. But already, the political winds are beginning to blow through East Deschire.

On Tuesday, Dane Gutmeier, a Conservative state senator from Christenkerr, told the press he is considering running for Congress in East Deschire's 4th Congressional District, which encompasses the southern part of the state. The district is conservative-leaning overall, but Christenkerr and its suburbs have voted more Nationalist in recent years.

Gutmeier's announcement comes the same day that a source close to another state senator, Donna Rae Cobb (N-Hansboro), revealed the senator is "seriously considering" running for Congress in the 2nd Congressional District, which is comprised of the northern and eastern parts of the state. The 2nd District is currently represented by Debra Nate (NAT), who is seeking re-election. That means Cobb, if she runs, will have to defeat the popular but controversial Nate, whom has represented the district for two terms.

Mary Altwing, a spokeswoman from Nate's Mavocke office, would not directly address Cobb's rumored candidacy. However, Altwing told GNN the Congresswoman is "ready to take on anybody."

"Congresswoman Nate has a deep warchest and will be a formidable opponent to anyone who challenges her," Altwing said.

It's unknown when Cobb will make a decision about running. Gutmeier said Tuesday he will make a decision by Thanksgiving.

De Beers Questions Monomi's State Leadership

CNS Congresswoman calls situation at state capitol 'childish'

MONOMI CITY, MON--Amidst the corruption and prostitution scandal that has enveloped Monomi Governor Scott King Jr. (NAT), Conservative Congresswoman Cathy De Beers has joined the growing list of Monomi politicians to question the governor's ability to govern.

De Beers, who represents the strongly conservative 17th Congressional District, is the latest in a string of Conservatives to either call for the governor's resignation, or strongly suggest he should step down.

Speaking to GNN's James Madine Friday, De Beers said King has "crossed the fine line that separates governance from simply holding an office," and suggested the governor "ought to think about his future."

"I've been sitting here watching everything unfold just like everyone else," De Beers told Madine. "And I know there are politics being played by both sides. But I also know that Governor King is in a very difficult situation, whether he committed a crime or not. And I think he needs to go home and think about his future."

Last week, King won a major victory when Monomi's Attorney General, Ed Casey (NAT), announced there was not enough evidence to warrant an indictment against the once-popular two-term governor. In June, federal investigators cleared King. The investigation was then handed over to Casey's office, which made its announcement last week.

Expectedly, Conservatives were outraged when Attorney General Casey announced no charges would be filed. Many CNS state legislators and party officials have suggested Casey is protecting King by not filing an indictment. On Tuesday, Mr. Casey rejected that idea, calling it "baseless."

"I am the Attorney General. I am the state's top law enforcement official. And what I do and what decisions I make are made solely based on evidence, or the lack thereof. And in this case, the governor happens to be of the same political party as me. But the fact is there is just not enough evidence to move forward with an indictment," Casey told reporters.

Congresswoman De Beers seemed to doubt Mr. Casey's story.

"I think doing your job is important, and unfortunately, what we've seen over the last several months is, we've seen partisan politics at its finest. We've seen friends and political allies of the governor stepping up to defend him and to cover for him. And we can't have that. We can't have people covering up for the governor. That is a crime," De Beers said.

Ms. De Beers also took aim at Monomi's Lieutenant Governor, Erica Kinsley (NAT), who almost immediately called for King's resignation upon hearing the allegations facing him. Kinsley says the governor is distracted and not focused on important issues facing the state. However, Conservatives and Nationalists alike question Kinsley's motives. Many believe she is adamant about the governor's resignation because she is planning on running to succeed Mr. King in 2010, and the scandal may tarnish her candidacy.

"I think a lot of people are questioning her motives," De Beers said. "It's almost as if she's pushing [King] out the door, and I think the question here really is, is she calling for him to step down because she legitimately feels he needs to go? Or is she doing it for purely political reasons. That is a very big question, and that's something that only Erica Kinsley can answer. My hope is that she's doing it for the right reason and not for a political advantage."

The center of the scandal himself, Governor King, has traded barbs with his now-estranged lieutenant. After Kinsley attended anti-King rallies calling for the governor's resignation, King called for Kinsley's resignation. Ironically, as both the governor and lieutenant governor call for each other to resign, neither one is doing so.

"It's just so childish. We can do so much better," De Beers said of the scandal, perhaps hinting she may run for office in 2010. The Congresswoman wouldn't elaborate, but many believe she is considereing a run for the senate, to fill the seat left be retiring Senator Debra York (CNS).

Though he will not face charges, Governor King is still facing a recall election, currently set for March 7, 2010. That date could change if the governor successfully appeals the recall effort. Impeachment proceedings are also underway against the governor, however, those proceedings were halted until Attorney General Casey announced the findings of his six week-long investigation.

Police Investigating Explosive Device Left At Representative's Office

Pipe bomb left outside Rep. Yateri's POG office was detonated without incident, police say

COTTONDALE, POG--Congresswoman Jill Yateri's suburban Lillac City office is open and back up and running, after a small pipe bomb was found outside the building in a trash can.

The Toltoona County Sheriff's Department is investigating, but so far, officials have not released any information to the media. GNN News can only confirm that Rep. Yateri's staff called police this morning around 11:00 am to report a suspicious device. The building was evacuated, the HAZ-MAT crew dispatched, and the device was detonated on scene. No one was injured during the incident.

This is the second pipe bomb found outside a congresswoman's office in the last 17 days. A similar device was found outside the office of Rep. Shannon Tribe (C-MON) in southwestern Monomi on September 10th. In that case, a bomb threat accompanied the explosive device. However, police have made no arrests.

Authorities are declining to say if the two cases are related.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Toltoona County Sheriff's Department or the NAI.

Stimulus Package Is 'Act Of Caution', Vanderhoogen Says

Deputy Secretary of the Treasury says stimulus package could still have positive impact

MAVOCKE, CEA--Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Jan Vanderhoogen testified before the National Assembly Finance Committee Friday, telling members of the committee that a smaller, slimmed-down stimulus package could still benefit the economy, and would be "an act of caution."

Testifying for more than two hours Friday morning, Mr. Vanderhoogen said passing a smaller, less-expensive stimulus package like Collester desires would be "the prudent thing to do."

"Could we get by without passing a stimulus package? Yes, we probably could. But it's going to be much more painful if we don't pass a stimulus bill," Vanderhoogen told the 12-member committee.

As expected, Conservative members of the committee grilled Mr. Vanderhoogen on the administration's proposed stimulus package. Congressman Dennis Brock of Wilkonshire, specifically questioned the necessity of a stimulus package.

"At this late in the game, I don't see why we need a stimulus package. The economy is starting to come back. The tide is turning. Why do we need one now?" he asked.

But NAT members defended the stimulus package and Vanderhoogen's argument.

"We do not want to prolong this economic misery that many of our fellow citizens are feeling," Rep. Molly Maxis, of Trinton, said.

Monomi Congressman Silvio Romero, a Democratic-Reformist, accused both parties of playing politics.

"On the one side you have the NAT trying to win votes by passing a stimulus package that would give basically free money to every Grassadellan. On the other side, you have the CNS, which is trying to scare people by calling this act 'socialist' or unnecessary. Can't we just have a rational discussion about this issue?" Romero asked.

Mr. Vanderhoogen responded by insisting the stimulus package is not an attempt to win or buy votes.

"By no means are we pushing this because we think it will be popular with the public and they'll all vote for the NAT in 2010 [election]. This has nothing to do with politics, sir," Vanderhoogen said.

Mr. Vanderhoogen's testimony ended for the day at 2:00 pm Eastern time. Next week, the committee will resume its schedule and will hear from Secretary of Revenue John Rogers-Thurst.

Gramma Orders Flags At Half-Staff Following Deadly Parade Shooting

Kalnier governor says state 'mourns the loss' of parade-goers

APPENBAUM, KLN--Kalnier Governor Joe Gramma has ordered flags across the state to fly at half-staff on Monday, in memory of the five people who died following a deadly shooting at a parade Friday in central Kalnier.

The attack happened in the small town of Dunsman, about two hours southwest of Lamberth. Police say 39-year-old Michael Dressey was driving a car in the parade when he suddenly stopped his vehicle and began shooting bullets into the crowd of spectators. One victim died at the scene, two others died hours later at area hospitals. Over the weekend, two other victims succumbed to their injuries. Five other victims were injured but are expected to recover.

Dressey fled the scene, but was found by police about an hour later hiding in a garage just three miles away from where the shooting occurred. He was arrested and charged with five counts of 1st degree murder, five counts of 1st degree attempted murder, one count of felony evasion, and one count of burglary. He is currently being held without bail, and will make his first court appearance Monday.

On Sunday, Governor Joe Gramma ordered all flags be lowered to half-staff on Monday, in honor of the victims of the deadly shooting spree. At a news conference at the state capitol, Gramma said "the entire state mourns the loss" of the victims.

"This is not just a tragedy for the town of Dunsman. This is a tragedy for the entire state of Kalnier," Gramma said. "And we want the people of this community to know that we are banding together with them in prayer and support during this difficult time."

Sheppard County Sheriff Rick Hanvee said his department, along with the Dunsman Police Department, are still investigating. Police believe the motive for the crime was a dispute between Dressey and his ex-wife. The couple is recently divorced.

Dressey's ex-wife was injured in the attack, but is expected to recover. Police believe she was the main target of the attack, but authorities say the other victims were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Dunsman Mayor Michael Caylee announced a candlelight vigil will be held Monday at the city park. The street where the shooting occurred has been closed since the shooting, to accommodate a shrine created by mourning community members. However, that street is expected to re-open sometime next week.

BREAKING NEWS--Parade Gunman Kills 3, Injures 7 In Kalnier

Domestic dispute may be motive for shooting, police say

DUNSMAN, KLN--Three people are dead and seven others injured after a gunman opened fire at a crowded parade Friday morning in central Kalnier.

The shooting happened in the small town of Dunsman, about two hours southwest of Lamberth, around 10:30 a.m. The parade was being held as part of a community celebration marking the beginning of autumn.

Police say 39-year-old Michael Dressey, of the nearby village of Linsheck, was driving a car in the parade when he suddenly stopped his vehicle and without warning, jumped out of the car and began shooting at a group of spectators, who had gathered to watch the parade. Dressey, armed with a semi-automatic assault rifle, opened fire, shooting dozens of bullets, and then fled into a nearby residential neighborhood.

One victim died at the scene. Two others were later pronounced dead at a local hospital. Several ambulances were summoned to the scene, but at least two of the critically-injured victims were flown to hospitals in Lamberth and Monvaille, Lial, where more advanced treatments are available.

At least 40 police officers from various law enforcement agencies responded to the emergency, blocking off streets and warning residents of the gunman's disappearance. The suspect was later found by police about an hour later, hiding in a garage just three miles from the crime scene. He was arrested and has been charged with three counts of 1st degree murder, seven counts of 1st degree attempted murder, and one count of felony evasion and burglary.

Because four of the victims still remain in critical condition in the hospital, it is possible Dressey could be charged with more murder indictments should those victims succum to their injuries.

It's unclear if Mr. Dressey was permitted to drive in the parade or if he simply joined the caravan without permission from local officials.

Police have yet to confirm the motive for the killings, but Sheppard County Sheriff Rick Hanvee says the suspect indicated a dispute with his ex-wife may have led to his violent outburst. The couple is recently divorced.

Mr. Dressey's ex-wife was shot in the attack, but is not among the deceased victims, Sheriff Hanvee said.

Dressey is being held in the Sheppard County Jail without bond, and will face a magistrate tomorrow morning at 10:00 a.m.

Dunsman Mayor Michael Caylee told the NFP the community celebration will go on as planned through the remainder of the weekend. However, the mayor said the street where the shooting occurred will be closed to accomodate grieving community members, who have created a shrine memorializing the victims.

Sulley, Hoffbourn Oppose NAT-Led Stimulus Effort

NAT senators say stimulus package unnecessary

MAVOCKE, CEA--Nationalist senators are aiming to re-start negotiations on a planned stimulus package, after Congress has been wrangling over the issue for the past four months. But at least two NAT senators do not support a stimulus package.

Senators Cal Sulley of Harvannah and Matt Hoffbourn of Remmington both told the press Wednesday afternoon they do not support the effort to pass a smaller, trimmed-down stimulus package.

"I think it's unnecessary at this point," Sulley said at a press conference. "We are beyond the point of economic repair. The economy is turning around. I just don't see what a stimulus package this late in the game would accomplish."

Senator Hoffbourn had similar feelings, saying a stimulus package would "simply drain the government's coffers."

"I think a stimulus package, had it been passed months ago, would have been effective in helping recover the economy and saving jobs and stimulating consumer spending. But the worst is over. Grassadellan consumers are starting to spend their money again. Companies are beginning to see revenue increases and profits climb again. So a stimulus package would be pointless at this point," Hoffbourn said.

Senate Minority Leader Shay Robertson (N-DMG) disagreed with Sulley and Hoffbourn's comments.

"Obviously I don't agree with them. I think a stimulus package is in the best interest of our economy and our country. The time to pass a stimulus package is now, and we're going to do our best to make sure that happens," Robertson told STAR News.

Robertson also downplayed the suggestion that Nationalist senators are divided over the controversial stimulus package proposal.

"I think that's ridiculous. There may be a few members here and there that don't agree with what we're proposing, but by and large, the NAT party is behind this effort and many Conservatives are too," Mr. Robertson said.

Only CNS Senator Ayden Benning of New Portsmouth has pledged to support the stimulus package, though several other moderate Conservatives may throw their support behind the proposal in the coming days.

Nationalists Want Smaller, Trimmed-Down Stimulus Package

The economy may be rebounding, but Nationalists say stimulus package could speed up recovery

MAVOCKE, CEA--The economy may be rebounding, but Nationalist lawmakers say a stimulus package would speed up the economic recovery process.

President Menuhaeo and Congress have been trying for months to pass a stimulus package. But Conservatives and Nationalists have disagreed so much on the proposed idea that a final bill has never been passed in the bitterly divided Congress.

Now, after months of attempted negotiations, the economy appears to be returning to a level state. But Nationalist senators and President Menuhaeo are still trying to pass a stimulus package. This time, however, they want a smaller, trimmed-down version instead of the massive $800 billion package originally proposed back in June, which was defeated in the National Assembly as well as the Senate.

Several NAT senators announced Wednesday they are pushing for a smaller and slimmer stimulus package that they say will provide assistance to small businesses, families, and large corporations, but will not bankrupt the federal treasury.

"The economy may be rebounding, but there are still families struggling all across this country and the government has a responsibility to help them out," Senator Tom O'Hearn (N-WIK) told STAR News.

Senator Stephanie Manning (N-LIA) is also calling for a stimulus package because the country "needs a financial boost" to "get back in the game."

"We have to compete globally, and that means our economy has to be top-notch, and we're not there right now," Manning told a local TV station in Koeurn, Lial. "A stimulus package isn't the entire answer, but it's a big part of the solution."

Conservative senators, however, are not convinced a stimulus package is necessary.

"The economy is on the rebound. It's on the upswing. And now we're talking about a stimulus package? The time to pass a stimulus package was six months ago, not now," Senator John BiGadi (C-LIA) told reporters in Mavocke Wednesday.

Armana Senator Joel Zuckermann agrees with his Conservative colleagues, saying not only is a stimulus package unnecessary, but also "a waste of tax-payer dollars."

"During this time, the government ought to be tightening its belt and limiting spending. A stimulus package is just going to add to our spending and put the government further in the hole," Zuckermann told the press outside his Mavocke office Wednesday afternoon.

Because the proposed stimulus package is so controversial, a bi-partisan group of senators has been formed in the Senate to help work out a compromised proposal. The six-member group consists of Senate Finance Committee Chairman Dana Glow, a Conservative from Armana, as well as CNS Sens. Jay Burns of Deschire and Curt Blaisek of Remmington. Senators Jean Chaveau (DMG), Eli Dundree (KLN) and Stephanie Manning (LIA) will represent the NAT in those negotiations.

President Menuhaeo said Tuesday he wants a stimulus package passed by September 25, giving the bi-partisan group little time to work out a deal. Senate Majority Leader George Landers (C-CEA) has agreed to vote on the matter on September 25.

Silvi Eyes POG Senate Seat

Conservative state delegate the first CNS candidate to announce 2010 senate bid

GARAMOND LAKE, POG--State Delegate Terry Silvi (C-Garamond Lake) has announced he is running for the senate in 2010.

Silvi is running for the seat that will be left open by retiring Sen. Shannon Barbieri (CNS), who will be leaving the senate after serving four terms.

Silvi, a 48-year-old father of three, was elected to the POG state legislature in 1997, first serving in the state Assembly until 2003, when he was elected to the state House of Delegates. In 2007, he was re-elected to that same seat, which encompasses the southwestern suburbs of Lillac City.

Making his announcement at the Royal Crown hotel in Garamond Lake, Mr. Silvi said that he is running because POG "needs a strong conservative that represents our values."

"I want to represent the real people of POG--not lobbyists, not the special interests, not wealthy corporations--but the real people of our state; the hard-working, every-day Province of Grassadellans who make this state the wonderful place it is," Silvi said.

During his announcement, Mr. Silvi did not address his positions on significant issues. Instead, he only used the occasion to talk in general terms about his plans. He also did not address the almost certain likelihood of a competetive primary. So far, no other Conservative candidates have announced their intention to run for the senate in POG. But several congressmen and state lawmakers are eyeing possible runs.

Nine of the state's 10 Conservative representatives in the National Assembly are exploring the idea of running for the party's nomination, though Reps. Bobby Hafen (19th District), Mark Rolen (20th District), and Julie Dennings (7th District) are considered the front-runners. Rep. Nancy Garblake, who was sworn into office on Thursday after winning a special election in the 15th congressional district, is not likely to seek election to the senate.

No Nationalists have announced their candidacy for the open senate seat. However, Rep. Jill Yateri (17th District) and former Lt. Gov. George Mercott are both rumored to be considering a run.

Pipe Bomb Found Outside Congresswoman's Office

Police detonate device; no one injured

DEVALL PARK, MON--A small pipe bomb was found outside the office of Congresswoman Shannon Tribe (C-MON) today in Devall Park, an upscale suburb about 40 miles southwest of Treeton, according to police.

The Maine County Sheriff's Department says a worker at Tribe's office called 911 at around 4:10 p.m. western time. Police responded, the area was evacuated, and the device was detonated safely. No one was injured.

Peter Denich, a spokesman for Rep. Tribe, who represents Monomi's 14th congressional district, said the congresswoman's office also received a threatening letter earlier in the day that indicated a bomb would be sent to the office. Police were contacted at the time the letter was received, but a search of the area found no device.

The Maine County Sheriff's Department is now being assisted in the investigation process by the Monomi State Police and the Grassadellan Agency of Investigation. Authorities are not saying if they have any leads.

Mr. Denich said the congresswoman's office will be opened as scheduled tomorrow.

Helicopter Crash Kills 5 In Eastern Remmington

Investigators believe rotor malfunction to blame

MARKELLA, REM--Police in southeastern Remmington are investigating a helicopter crash that killed five people Tuesday afternoon.

The crash happened in Helona County, about 150 miles southeast of Remmington City, at around 4:00 p.m. eastern time. The chopper went down in a rural wooded area about 3 miles south of the small town of Markella.

According to the Helona County Sheriff's office, the helicopter belonged to a tourist sight-seeing company based out of Dry Springs, about 30 miles west of Markella.

It's unclear what caused the accident. But investigators with the Remmington Department of Transportation and the Federal Bureau of Transportation Safety (FBTS) believe a problem with the helicopter's rotor may have caused the aircraft to go down without warning.

Local air traffic controllers did not report any emergency signals from the aircraft.

Authorities say there were two pilots and three passengers on board the helicopter at the time of the accident. They declined to give further information until the victims' kin have been notified.

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.

McCaren: Release Of Lockerbie Bomber 'Just Plain Stupid'

Foreign affairs secretary calls release of bombing suspect 'beyond irresponsible'

MAVOCKE, CEA--The outcry over the release of the only man convicted in the bombing over Lockerbie, Scotland that brought down Pan Am Flight 103 and killed 270 people is growing, as more Grassadellan officials join the chorus of international leaders to condemn the bomber's release.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Jim McCaren made his disapproval of the bomber's release clear Thursday when he spoke with the GBC's Gene Caughley, calling the Scottish government's decision to prematurely release al-Megrahi "just plain stupid" and "beyond irresponsible."

"This just doesn't make sense. We're all really dumbfounded. We don't know how a responsible democratic government could release someone that played a major part in the deaths of 270 people. That's a very difficult thing to understand," McCaren told Caughley.

President Menuhaeo expressed similar views last week, saying at a press conference that the release of al-Megrahi is "an embarrassment to the Scottish government and the whole United Kingdom."

Al-Megrahi was convicted in 2001 of helping aid the bombing, which took place on December 21, 1988, and was sentenced to life in prison. However, the Scottish government gave al-Megrahi a "compassionate release" after he was diagnosed with terminal cancer, and on August 20th, allowed the suspect to return to his native Libya, where he was welcomed as a hero.

Al-Megrahi maintains his innocence, and is supported by many in Libya and elsewhere who believe he was scapegoated by the UK government for a crime he did not commit.

McCaren said he still respects the Scottish people but questions their government's judgement.

"This really brings into question the Scottish government's common sense," Mr. McCaren said.

On Wednesday, Scotland's parliament, by a margin of 73-50, voted to reject the government's release of al-Megrahi. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown as well as Foreign Secretary David Milibrand have been battling allegations the British government negotiated al-Megrahi's release in exchange for greater economic and energy-related cooperation from the Libyan government.

"There was no conspiracy, no cover up, no double dealing, no deal on oil, no attempt to instruct Scottish ministers," Brown said Wednesday.

Regardless of whether a deal was cut, the foreign affairs department is outraged at the bomber's release.

"If a deal was made, that just makes the matter worse," Deputy Secretary of Foreign Affairs Olivia Lisbet told the Grassadella City Times newspaper. "But even if there wasn't a deal, this was truly a bad decision."

Members of the UK parliament are already calling for an inquiry into al-Megrahi's investigation. David Cameron, leader of the minority Conservative party, has called for an independent inquiry into the matter, but it is unclear if a formal investigation will take place.

Recall Measure Qualifies For Ballot

Recall election to be held in six months

TREETON, MON--The group aiming to recall embattled Monomi Governor Scott King (NAT) has collected enough signatures to put the recall measure on the ballot, Secretary of State Sharon Dimaggio (CNS) said Thursday.

Citizens to Recall Scott King Jr., the group filing the recall measure, gathered some 532,000 signatures, of which 446,919 were valid. That's more than the required 389,000 signatures necessary to put the measure on the ballot.

Secretary of State Dimaggio said at a Thursday press conference she will certify the signatures on Tuesday, September 7th. That means, the recall election, according to the state constitution, will be scheduled for six months to the day from September 7th, or March 7, 2010.

The date for the special recall election could be delayed however, should Governor King's lawyers file a lawsuit to stop the election from happening.

Citizens to Recall Scott King Jr. said in a statement they were "quite pleased" with the number of signatures and "confident" the voters will side with them when the time comes for the special election.

Governor King's office did not have a comment.

There is no word if an appeal will be filed to stop the recall election from taking place.

Fisher To Take On Branlin

Conservative businessman and retired army colonel to oppose NAT incumbent senator

JAFFLING, WIK--Freshman Senator Terry Branlin (NAT) now officially has a Conservative opponent.

Retired army colonel and businessman Lee Fisher, age 68, announced he will challenge the first-term Branlin, who is seeking a second but first full six-year term.

Speaking at his campaign kick-off ceremony in the western Wilkonshire town of Jaffling, Fisher told supporters Ms. Branlin does not "represent the people of Wilkonshire the way they desire to be represented."

"This is someone who has been supportive of every bail-out plan and stimulus package and tax hike and wealth-sharing proposal," Fisher said of Branlin. "Senator Branlin even said that rich Grassadellans have a responsibility to 'share the wealth'. Wilkonshireans don't want to share the wealth. They don't want to bail-out every failing company. They don't want to spend billions of dollars for a stimulus package that will do nothing to stimulate the economy. And they certainly don't want to raise taxes to pay for it."

Branlin has made a name for herself as one of the most liberal members in the senate. In recent months, she has come under attack from conservative groups for her vocal support of President Menuhaeo's stimulus package and corporate bail-out plans. But the most controversial moment of her brief senate career so far was back in April, when the senator said on the senate floor that "the wealthiest of the wealthy...the highest on the socio-economic ladder...it's high time those people give back to our country," referring to the idea of taxing wealthy Grassadellans to benefit less fortunate citizens. That comment drew fire from conservative groups, who immediately attacked the senator, calling her a socialist and "anti-Grassadellan."

But despite her liberal tendencies, Ms. Branlin is considered relatively safe for re-election. She faced a tough battle in 2007 when, by a margin of 51%-49%, she narrowly defeated former POG Sen. Marie Antonnage, who left POG and moved to Wilkonshire to run against the new senator. Antonnage was thought to be considering a possible rematch in 2010, but ended speculation last month when she announced she would not run again.

Fisher, who faces an uphill battle against Branlin, is optimistic despite his under-dog status.

"She's got the upper hand in this race," Fisher conceded. "But we've got the motivation and the determination. And when you get a group of people who are highly motivated, and you mobilize that movement, you can make something unstoppable."

So far, Fisher is the only declared Conservative candidate in the race. Congressman Dennis Brock, who represents north-central Wilkonshire in the National Assembly, will make a decision by September 14th, his office said.

Agnew Kicks Off Senate Campaign

Former WIK governor to challenge incumbent Sylvea Stone

CHRISTON, WIK--Former Wilkonshire Governor John R. Agnew (CNS) formally announced Monday he is running for the senate.

Agnew, who retired in 2008 to run for the senate against Nationalist John Warner-Patterson, will now seek to unseat NAT Sen. Sylvea Stone, who is considered one of the most vulnerable senators up for re-election in the 2010 election cycle.

Agnew was unsuccessful in 2008, falling to Warner-Patterson by a margin of 54%-46%, respectively. There could be a different result this time around, however, as Stone finds her popularity falling drastically amidst her vocal support for corporate bail-outs, an unpopular stimulus package, and her sponsorship of several strange bills, including one that would have provided $8 million for research into cow flatulence and its effect on the ozone layer. That particular bill failed in the senate miserably, with only 13 members voting in favor and 57 against.

Internal polling by the Agnew campaign shows the former governor leading the freshman senator, though Agnew's campaign will not release the exact numbers. However, even officials from the Wilkonshire NAT party are privately conceeding Stone is vulnerable.

"There's no doubt she is in political quick sand, and we're pretty sure John Agnew's gonna come out the winner," one NAT official told GNN News, asking for confidentiality so as not to violate party rules which prohibit talking to the media.

Still, the 63-year-old Agnew has a lot of work ahead of him, as Wilkonshire continues to trend blue and has favored the NAT in recent elections.

Stone's office did not return a call asking for a comment. GNN was instead referred to the senator's Mavocke office, where again, no comment was given.

Lawsuit Against Diego Dismissed

Lt. gov. did not violate church and state separation laws, judge rules

MATTINOW, DMG--A lawsuit against Damoign Lt. Gov. Mercer Diego (CNS) alleging he violated church and state separation laws has been dismissed by a state judge.

The lawsuit, filed by the athiest group "God Free DMG," claimed that Diego violated church and state separation laws when he counseled and prayed with the family of former Damoign governor Whit Meiyer, who passed away back in May. According to the lawsuit, Diego traveled to the Meiyer family home in Mattinow on three separate occasions following the governor's death, and prayed with them on at least two of those occasions.

There's nothing illegal about an elected official visiting a grieving family, but the lawsuit alleges the lieutenant governor, who is also a former mega-church pastor, drove a state-issued vehicle to the Meiyer home on all three occasions he visited the family. The lawsuit also says Diego met with Meiyer's widow and children during hours he normally spends at the state capitol, meaning he left work early on those three occasions to meet with the Meiyer family, and cancelled pre-scheduled appointments.

But state judge Austin D. Riciello ruled Monday that even though Diego drove a vehicle that was issued and paid for by the state, that vehicle is considered a personal vehicle and is provided for the lieutenant governor by the state's constitution, which says the governor and lieutenant governor "shall be issued a reliable vehicle, within reasonable cost and means, for both personal and professional-related travel."

Judge Riciello also ruled that although Diego may have left work early and cancelled pre-arranged appointments, he did not violate the law by doing so. The judge also threw out a complaint by the athiest group that the lieutenant governor had organized a "prayer meeting" at the Meiyer home.

Members of the Meiyer family did not testify during the court hearings, but did tell investigators that Mr. Diego was "invited" to their home and they "welcomed" his counsel and prayer.

Diego maintained throughout the trial that the lawsuit was "frivolous" and was only filed because of the lieutenant governor's former occupation as a minister.

"It's clear this was a politically and religiously motivated lawsuit that was meant to do nothing but paint Mercer Diego as a non-mainstream religious fundamental," Diego's lawyer, John Zugenheim, told the NPF.

A spokesperson for GodFree DMG did not comment on the case, and would not reveal if the group plans an appeal.

Almone Would Crush Vivarte, Poll Shows

If election were held today, popular incumbent would have easy road to re-election, according to poll

LILLAC CITY, POG--Popular Conservative Governor Donna Almone would easily defeat Nationalist gubernatorial candidate June Vivarte, according to a new poll released by Southern Concepts, a POG-based polling firm.

The poll, which was conducted between August 7-9, shows Almone taking 48% to Vivarte's 23%, with the remaining 29% undecided. The poll also found Almone's favorability ratings high, with 58% of POG voters approving of her job as governor. Only 32% disapproved of her handling of the governor's job.

A different poll, paid for by the state NAT party, found Almone leading Vivarte by only 6 points, 39% to 36%, respectively. That same poll found the governor's approval rating at 52% and disapproval rating at 38%.

According to both polls, voters' main complaint about Almone is her frequent absence from the state capitol. The governor says she is absent from the capitol often because she is Chairwoman of the Governor's Board, a job that requires her to travel out of state frequently. Nationalists say the governor's frequent absences prove her priorities are mixed up, and she is out of touch with the state's affairs.

The governor's position as Chairwoman of the Governor's Board is likely to be a major issue in the 2010 gubernatorial campaign, as Nationalists contend Almone is putting her role as Chairwoman before her job as governor of POG.

NAT candidate June Vivarte has already released a web video attacking Almone's spotty availability at the governor's office. Her campaign is also planning a rally at the state capitol, to be held sometime next week.

Densy: Kinsley Acting 'Melodramatic' In Monomi Governor's Scandal

Congressman say lieutenant governor putting 'politics before the people'

TREETON, MON--Calling the scandal surrounding Governor Scott King a "soap opera," Rep. John Densy (C-Treeton) reiterated his calls for the embattled governor to step down, and also scolded the state's lieutenant governor, Erica Kinsley (NAT), for using the governor's scandal for her own political advantage.

"The governor needs to step down," Densy told host Dan Leitner, of the GBC's Sunday morning program Up Front Live. "But at the same time, Erica Kinsley is prancing around the state telling people to recall the governor, speaking at anti-Scott King rallies, and basically attacking him. It's all quite a melodramatic situation that's unfolding, and she's doing it purely for political purposes and it's wrong."

Densy said that while King may have not broken the law, he has "undoubtedly lost the trust of the people," and should step down as governor. However, Densy saved his harshest criticism for Lt. Gov. Kinsley, whom he said is "putting politics before the people" by engaging in a war of words with King.

"I don't have a problem with [Kinsley] calling for the governor's resignation," Densy told Leitner. "But attacking him and exploiting the situation for her own political gain is not right, and she should stop doing it."

Mr. Densy also praised the Conservative Party's response to the scandal, saying the party has acted in a "concerned but non-vindictive manner." However, the Congressman lambasted the Nationalist Party's response, saying party leaders have been slow to react.

"You don't see Sen. [Hanna] Gorbachy out there calling for Governor King to step down. You don't see Senator [Nathan] Lister calling for him to step down. The only Nationalist that has is my colleague, Congresswoman [Mary Kay] Allen, who came out right away and called for the governor's resignation. And I applaud her for that. It takes a lot of courage to stand up to your own party like she did," Densy said.

Mr. Densy's criticism of the NAT and Lt. Gov. Kinsley comes at a time when politics are starting to heat up in Monomi. Though she has not officially declared her candidacy, it is widely believed Lt. Gov. Kinsley will run for governor in 2010, when current-Governor King leaves office due to term limits.

For the past two months, Mr. King and Ms. Kinsley have had a tense relationship, after Kinsley called for the governor to resign following allegations he committed an array of crimes, ranging from misuse of office to prostitution.

Many are skeptical of Kinsley's calls for King's resignation, however. Opponents point out she would assume the governorship should King step down, and if she does mount a bid for the governor's mansion, King's scandal could plague her campaign and benefit the CNS candidate. Kinsley denies her requests for King's resignation have anything to do with her political ambitions.

"I'm calling for Governor King to resign because he can no longer govern this state effectively," Kinsley told the Treeton Sun.

Some are also questioning Rep. Densy's motives, as he appears to be a likely candidate for governor as well. Recent polls show him leading the CNS field of candidates, though Densy said he is only "considering" a bid for governor at this point.

Reedsworth Urged To Challenge Kemp

Trinton Conservatives urge Congressman to run for senate

WILMINGTON, TRI--Conservative Congressman George Reedsworth is being urged by fellow Conservatives to challenge incumbent NAT Sen. Grace Kemp, who is running for a third term.

Reedsworth, who represents central Trinton in the National Assembly, is reportedly being encouraged to run for the senate by top CNS officials, including Sen. Kelsey Frascanio, who narrowly defeated Reedsworth last year during a contentious primary election for the senate seat left open by retiring CNS Sen. Richard C. Parker.

According to party sources, who could only speak on condition of anonymity, Frascanio, who is far more conservative than the more moderate Reedsworth, is "actively working to convince" Mr. Reedsworth to run against Kemp, who is a popular but often divisive liberal icon. Kemp would be a difficult incumbent to defeat, but many state CNS leaders feel Reedsworth is the only CNS candidate capable of making a serious challenge for the seat.

According to the sources, some state party officials are so supportive of a Reedsworth candidacy, they are willing to clear the CNS field for him, to avoid a messy primary. But some within the party's leadership are still skeptical, fearing Reedsworth may not be a strong enough candidate to oust Kemp, who coasted to victory back in 2004.

Mr. Reedsworth's office declined to comment on the reports, as did the office of Senator Frascanio. Mr. Kemp's office also did not return a call from GNN.