Wornkin Mulls Gubernatorial Bid

Dayle-Locke mayor urged to run for NWP governor

DAYLE-LOCKE, NEW PORTSMOUTH--Two days after rumors surfaced that top leaders within the Nationalist Party are urging Dayle-Locke Mayor Charles Wornkin to run for governor in the 2010 election, the Mayor's office has confirmed he is considering a run.

Wornkin, who was elected mayor of New Portsmouth's largest city last year, is one of the state's most notable Nationalists, and has received praise from Nationalists and Conservatives alike for his work on the city's troubled budget.

However, should Wornkin decide to run, he will join a crowded field of NAT candidates vying to challenge first-term Conservative Governor Jacqueline Bosseau. The field includes former governor Dale Rochey, who narrowly defeated Bosseau in a special 2007 election and later narrowly lost to her in 2008. State Senator Michael Barrett and small business owner Kyle Reeser are also running.

Wornkin would have to play catch-up in the fundraising race, and lacks the name recognition Rochey has gained from two previous state-wide campaigns. However, Wornkin is well known in the Dayle-Locke area and could be a formidable opponent for Rochey, who appears to be the favored candidate in the primary race.

On Friday, Wornkin's office declined to comment, but did acknowledge the mayor is "considering" a bid.

"I can't comment on any specifics, but I can tell you that the mayor has met with national leaders in the party and is considering running," spokeswoman Mary Klammins told the Yanceyburg Commoner newspaper.

Rochey's campaign refused to comment on a possible Wornkin candidacy, but did tell the media Dale Rochey "is the only person in this state who can restore trust in the governor's mansion."

Bosseau's office did not return GNN's calls, but a campaign spokeswoman later emailed us and said, "the governor is prepared to take on any deep-pocketed candidate the Nationalists throw at her."

New Portsmouth's primary election will be held on September 7.

Monomi Court of Appeals Refuses To Delay Recall Election

Governor's legal team calls decision a 'disregard for the constitution'

TREETON, MONOMI--The Monomi Court of Appeals on Tuesday refused to delay or halt the recall election facing Governor Scott King Jr. (NAT).

The 3-1 decision means the recall election, which has been certified by Secretary of State Sharon Dimaggio (CNS), can go on as planned. The date for the special recall election is April 26.

The court's decision also reaffirms a lower court's ruling made last week. In that case, King's attorneys asked that the recall election either be postponed or thrown out altogether because of errors and irregularities in the signature-collecting process during the initial stages of the recall effort.

King's attorneys also argued that a recall against the embattled governor, who was the subject of state and federal fraud and corruption investigations, is not legal because the Monomi Constitution states that "executive members shall not be impeached unless they become the subject of a criminal case of wrong-doing." King was ultimately never indicted, due to a lack of evidence.

But the appeals court did not buy King's argument, and upheld last week's decision by The Honorable Judge Gary J. Rice.

Speaking on behalf of the majority, The Honorable Judge Jerry J.W. Wilson wrote, "We do not find any evidence to suggest that the complainant's case was unfairly treated or executed, and we affirm Judge Rice's previous decision."

The appeals court's ruling means the recall election can go on as scheduled, unless King's attorneys appeal to the state Supreme Court and the court agrees to hear the case.

"This is, in our opinion, a complete disregard for justice," King's attorney, Jason Gillis, told The Treeton Sun newspaper following the ruling. "For us, the next step may be taking this to the Supreme Court. That's something we'd have to talk about with the governor and contemplate."

King's opponents and supporters of the recall movement applauded the court's decision but acknowledged the governor will most likely appeal to the Supreme Court.

"We're very happy with today's decision, but we also realize that Scott King is probably going to appeal," said Jeff Kinbry, of the group Citizens to Recall Scott King. "This is a governor that has tried to prevent and stall and delay this process every step of the way. It just wouldn't be the same if he stopped now and actually faced the music willingly."

The recall election will not be halted or delayed if King appeals to the Supreme Court. The election will only be suspended if the court rules in King's favor and intervenes.

Monomi Secretary of State Dimaggio has already filed a brief with the Supreme Court, in which she asks the justices not to postpone or stop the recall election.

"Here at the Secretary of State's office, we have already printed millions of ballots to be used in this special election. And we've spent somewhere in the neighborhood of $700,000 in the last month advertising and spreading the word. To delay the election again, a second time, would be an enormous waste of tax-payer money and a huge headache for elections officials and for the voters," Dimaggio told the GBC.

King's attorneys argue, however, that the election can still take place as previously scheduled. The results just may or may not count, depending on the court's decision, should they be asked to make one.

"Just because the election is scheduled for April 26 does not mean it can't take place on April 26," Gillis said. "The voters can still vote. But if the legality of the recall is rejected by the court, then the election simply would not count."

For now, the election will go on as scheduled. Both sides are shelling out cash, with the pro-recall groups spending an estimated $2.2 million in the last month on advertising. King's campaign has spent about only about $400,000, however, on counter-advertisements.

Recent polls show dropping support for recalling the governor. At one point in time, two out of three Monomi voters supported the recall, but now many are opposed because of the cost of the special election in a time when the state budget is suffering. Others believe a recall election and a possible subsequent change of power would only hurt the state, which has been marred by King's scandal for the last year, even more.

Many also are distrusting of the state's lieutenant governor and heir to the governor's mansion, Erica Kinsley (NAT). The young, politically ambitious Kinsley was quick to disavow King directly after he became the subject of a federal investigation. She has since called for his resignation and has campaigned actively with pro-recall supporters. In recent months, however, she has toned down her criticism of the governor and has maintained with him a civil but cold relationship.

Farengatto Decides Against Run For Congress

Deschire lieutenant governor would have to move to establish residency

NORTH BERIVIAN, DESCHIRE--Lieutenant Governor Angie Farengatto (TA) has decided against running for Congress in Deschire's 7th District, she announced Saturday.

Farengatto, who made history in 2008 when she became the first candidate of the fledgling family-values Traditionalist Party elected to state-wide office in the nation, has been courted in recent weeks by the Conservative Party to run for the vacant seat, which opened up after Congressman Robert Sherman (CNS) resigned last month after being diagnosed with liver cancer.

In a press conference Saturday at the state capitol, Farengatto said she would have to move from her current home in rural Dovlin County, which lies in the 3rd District, across the boundary to the adjacent 7th District, and "that's just not something I'm willing to do at this time," she said.

"My husband and I have three children, and we have a lovely home that we love, and to ask my family to pack up their things and move to a new home in a new district, and force my kids to move to a new school, that would just not be fair," Farengatto said.

But it wasn't just the moving that discouraged her from running.

"I'm happy here [at the capitol]. I love being lieutenant governor. Every day, I get to serve the people of this great state and I get to play an important role in the decision-making process here in North Berivian. I'm not ready for a move to Mavocke," she said, of becoming a member of Congress.

Though she is a member of a different political party, Farengatto's announcement is a blow to local Conservatives, who were hoping to join forces with the Traditionalist Party and support her candidacy in what has become, in recent years, a battle-ground district. The CNS has few strong candidates, and many party leaders fear North Berivian Mayor Kallie O'Connor may run for the Nationalists, making her a formidable opponent in the special election.

O'Connor, who is in her second term as mayor, has not announced if she will seek the empty seat.

Judge Denies King's Request To Halt Recall Effort, Sets Election Date For April 26

Judge tosses Monomi governor's lawsuit, says recall election can go on

TREETON, MONOMI--A state judge has dismissed a lawsuit brought by embattled Monomi Governor Scott King Jr. (NAT), who sought to have a recall effort against him annulled.

The Honorable Judge Gary J. Rice ruled in state court Friday that the recall effort against King was conducted fairly and in accordance with state law, and, despite claims by King's attorneys of errors and wrong-doing by recall supporters, the recall election facing King can go on as planned.

The recall election has already been delayed from its original March 7 date. The new recall election date has been set for April 26, giving both sides "ample time" to argue their case, Rice said.

"I find that there is no legal standing to prevent this recall measure from moving forward, and the complainant has not provided sufficient evidence to justify delaying or annulling this recall election," Rice said in his ruling.

Monomi Secretary of State Sharon Dimaggio (CNS) testified in favor of the recall effort, telling the court that she certified the more than 445,000 of the 532,000 signatures that were submitted to her office.

"In my opinion, this process was conducted within the means of the law," she testified Tuesday.

Recall supporters hailed the court's ruling, calling it "another victory in the long road to removing Scott King from office." Jeff Kinbry, with the group Citizens to Recall Scott King, urged the governor to stop court appeals and let the election take place.

"Scott King and his lawyers are using every appeals process and legal avenue they can to delay and prevent this recall election from happening," Kinbry said on the steps of the courthouse in Treeton. "Governor, you have had your chance to appeal, and now the people want the chance to have their voices heard."

King's legal team expressed disappointment at the court's ruling, but would not comment on if they would appeal the court's decision to the state Supreme Court.

Despite being tainted by criminal investigations into allegations of fraud, bribery and even prostitution, King is still in office, and has resisted calls for his resignation, even from members within his own party, such as Lt. Gov. Erica Kinsley and Congresswoman Mary Kay Allen (N-Skyllings). King was never indicted in either the state or federal investigations, with both federal investigators and Monomi Attorney General Ed Casey (NAT) citing a lack of evidence for an indictment.

Conservatives have accused Casey of protecting King, and the state CNS party has been almost unanimous in its calls for King's resignation. However, only one of Monomi's five senators, Democratic-Reformist Willy Locke, has called for the governor to step down. The other four senators--two Conservative and two Nationalist--have remained neutral throughout the ordeal.

Despite initial support among voters to recall the once-popular King, opinion polls now show voters less inclined to vote in favor of the recall. Many feel the recall process (and impeachment process that occurred simultaneously but ultimately failed in the state legislature) has dragged on too long. King has less than a year left in office, and will be leaving in January 2010 due to term limits.

And if recalled, he will be replaced by Kinsley, whom has faced criticism for her immediate calls for King's resignation, which many believe were motivated by her desire to seek the governor's office in the 2010 election. Kinsley, who, like King, was once popular, now has approval ratings in the negative territory also, as many voters have viewed her icy relationship with King, and perceive her as a power-hungry, ambitious politician who wants to push King out of her way so his scandal won't hurt her political future.

"By the time it's over with, he'll only have six or seven months left in office, and who will we be replacing him with? Erica Kinsley? She's no better than he is," said 71-year-old Russ Wexlehoff, a retired farmer from Teedra.
Conservatives are faring no better in the public opinion arena, however, with many voters believing the opposition party is dragging out the ordeal to maximize political gain and earn more votes in the 2010 election.

"It's become less about restoring the integrity of our government and more about Scott King and Erica Kinsley and the Conservative Party trying to use the scandal for their own gain," said one Treeton resident.

Still, voters will have the final say on April 26, barring an intervention by the state Supreme Court. An appeal by King's legal team to the court could come as early as tomorrow.

Duschowitz Gives Stern Warning About Difficult Election

Biereland governor warns of 'massive revolt' against Conservative Party in 2010 election

BROOMFIELD, BIERELAND--The 2010 mid-term elections may see a "massive revolt" against the Conservative Party, Biereland Governor Jenny Duschowitz, a Conservative, said Saturday.

Duschowitz was speaking at the Leeland County Conservative Party Conference in the town of Broomfield in southern Biereland when she made the comments. In her speech, she warned Conservatives have a difficult election ahead.

"We have a tough year ahead of us, there's no doubt about that," Duschowitz said. "And if we don't start to turn around this economy, and if we don't start to win back the voters' trust, we will see our numbers fall and the other party take control of one or even both houses of Congress."

Duschowitz was referring to federal politics, but the governor, who is in her first term, is facing a difficult fight for re-election of her own. Once having a healthy approval rating of 67%, Duschowitz's approval numbers have now slipped dramatically to just 42% in the latest poll, conducted by the Greene Mountain Press newspaper in Brookings.

Furthermore, the governor is likely to face former Otterbein County commissioner San Bartholomew (NAT), who has the backing of Biereland's top environmental organizations and has already raised almost $870,000 since he formally entered the race last month. Duschowitz has been doing fundraising of her own, amassing $1.4 million in addition to the $270,000 she already had at the start of her campaign. However, the governor does acknowledge her bid for re-election will be tough, in what is likely to be a successful election for the NAT, particularly in Biereland, where scandal-ridden Senator Driscoll Sherber (CNS) is also running for re-election.

"I know our party faces extraordinary challenges this go around, but we will be strong and we will continue to stand up for freedom and responsibility and accountability in government," Duschowitz said.

One bright spot for the CNS in Biereland is the seat currently held by Michael Kreighorn (NAT), who is also seeing sagging poll numbers. However, NAT leaders are hoping to oust Kreighorn by electing the much more liberal former Brookings mayor Steve Pottomeaux in the primary election. Unlike Kreighorn, who is serving his first term, Pottomeaux has widespread name recognition and is popular statewide. Meanwhile, the Conservatives have few viable candidates interested in challenging either Kreighorn or Pottomeaux. Former senator Bob Kozzy, who lost his re-election bid to Steve Kolotano (NAT) in 2008, has announced his candidacy for the seat. Timber tycoon Robert Browning has also announced his candidacy, making for a competitive CNS primary.

Nation-wide, Conservatives face a tough election year. Dozens of members of the National Assembly have announced retirement, while six of the seven members retiring in the Senate are Conservatives. Additionally, of the 32 seats up for election in the Senate, 19 are held by Conservatives.

Harvannah Attorney General Seeks To Disband WHMC

AG: regional council takes away rights of rural citizens

CLEVEY SPRINGS, HVN--The Western Harvannah Metropolitan Council (WHMC) is unconstitutional, and should be disbanded immediately, Harvannah's Attorney General said Wednesday.

In an affidavit to the state's Superior Court, Attorney General Julia Giorchani (CNS) said the WHMC, a regional governmental body with jurisdiction over Scandinaugh, Herell and Bourneham Counties in the western half of the state, is unconstitutional because it creates legislation that affects not only the urban residents it seeks to represent but also rural residents who live outside the counties' major metropolitan areas.

The WHMC was created last year, as an attempt to coordinate governmental cooperation and to streamline local ordinances and laws for residents of the three counties, which, together, account for just over half of the state's population. The idea behind the WHMC was that, since all the cities on Harvannah's western coast are virtually connected due to urban sprawl and the counties closely linked geographically, economically and culturally, one governing authority would be more productive than each community and county having its own government.

Local officials in Harvannah supported the creation of the WHMC and urban residents widely support its existence. However, even before its inception, rural citizens were opposed. Many living in rural communities and in the countryside feel the WHMC is wrongfully imposing taxes on them for services provided mostly in urban areas. Furthermore, laws passed by the council apply to the entirety of the counties, not just the cities.

Giorchani says she's suing on behalf of the counties' rural residents, who feel their tax dollars are being used only for urban projects and who feel the WHMC is passing laws that should not apply to them.

"The WHMC is imposing a one-size-fits-all method on every citizen in these counties. That's not right," Giorchani said. "What's right for downtown Harlyne is not necessarily right for Raeka or Ebram's Point or rural Herell County. Some laws are appropriate only for urban areas, and should not be applied to rural areas too. This is unconstitutionl. Voters should have local control over local issues."

Giorchani's lawsuit seeks to nullify the WHMC's authority and disband the council.

"The cities and municipalities need to start over from scratch and create a new council that deals only with metropolitan issues," Giorchani said. "We need a governing body that is effective and representative and does not take away the rights of any citizen."

WHMC President Ray Augustino (N-Scandinaugh Co.) declined to comment Wednesday afternoon and directed the media to the council's legal team, which also declined to comment.

Harlyne Mayor Kallain Carney was out of the office Wednesday, but Ashford's Landing Mayor Peter Levenko and Clevey Springs Mayor Todd Kren both agreed changes must be brought to the WHMC and its role.

"I think change is [coming] in the future," Levenko said.

"I don't know if [the WHMC] needs to be disbanded, but it definitely needs to be changed and refined and we need to have an honest conversation between all the cities and municipalities and county governments and try and figure out a governing process that works for the purpose of governance and also works to the voters' benefit," Kren said.

Currently, the WHMC is made up of six members--one from each county, and three at-large positions--and is responsible for things such as imposing taxes, refuse collection, and tourism promotion. Presently, the council is evenly bipartisan, with three members from the CNS and three from the NAT.

Giorchani's lawsuit will be presented before a court in April.

Dearling Concedes

CNS Senate candidate ends legal challenge, NAT holds on to seat

CLOTHEN, LIAL--The battle for the Senate in Lial is now over, after Conservative candidate John Dearling ended his legal challenge to the previous vote certification and conceded to Nationalist Henry Mickeravi.

Dearling made the announcement Friday afternoon in Clothen, after previously denying rumors he would concede.

"I have decided, after much thought and discussion with my team and my family that the best option for the people of Lial is for me to stand down and concede to Mr. Mickeravi," Dearling said at his press conference. "A long, drawn-out court battle would most likely not change the outcome of the race and that's not something the people of Lial want to be put through."

His announcement means Mickeravi will likely be sworn in to the Senate on Monday, as NAT leaders had originally planned. He will replace out-going Senator Juslana Thompson-N, who left the Senate to become Ambassador to Japan.

Turnout for the special Senate election, held February 2, was higher than expected, with about 40%, or more than 3.5 million voters, according to Secretary of State Alan Dillon. The initial count on election night showed Mickeravi leading Dearling 50.44% to 49.56%, a difference of about 30,000 votes. Dearling refused to concede, citing uncounted overseas and military ballots.

The Dearling campaign also filed legal challenges in Darrington and Shepard Counties, alleging voter fraud and counting discrepancies. The Mickeravi campaign also filed suit in Hayman County with a similar complaint.

Trials in the three lawsuits began last week, but no decisions were have been handed down yet.

Initially, the Dearling campaign vowed to not concede until the courts' rulings were released, saying Dearling would "not even consider conceding until every vote is counted." But on Friday, he reversed his earlier plans and did just that.

"It's disappointing, but I respect the will of the people and I believe it's in the best interest of the people of Lial," Dearling said Friday evening at Rudmere International Airport in Clothen.

The Mickeravi campaign welcomed the news.

"We applaud John Dearling for doing the right thing and we thank him for running an honorable race," Jared Colmes, a spokesman for the campaign said in a statement Friday evening.

Mr. Mickeravi was at his eastern Lial home when Dearling made the announcement, Colmes said. Colmes added that Dearling phoned Mickeravi and the two had a "pleasurable" conversation that lasted about 15 minutes.

In a statement later Friday evening, Mr. Mickeravi thanked his opponent for conceding and pledged to work on behalf of all Lialans.

"I want to thank John Dearling. He ran a great campaign and he brought a lot of issues to the conversation and he is a good man," Mickeravi said. "I also want to thank the great people of the state of Lial for electing me and I promise, from day one, to serve with dignity and honor and to represent our interests to my fullest ability."

A small celebration was held in Mickeravi's honor in Monvaille Friday night, but the senator-elect was not present. He was reportedly at home, preparing to fly out to Mavocke the next day to meet with Nationalist Senate leaders.

Day After Election, Outcome Still Uncertain

Lial special senate election too close to call

CLOTHEN, LIAL--Just one day after millions of Lialans went to the polls for the state's special senate election, the outcome is still far from certain.

On Tuesday, more than 3.5 million voters cast their ballots to decide who will replace former senator Juslana Thompson (NAT), who vacated her seat after being appointed ambassador to Japan by President Menuhaeo. On election night, Nationalist Henry Mickeravi was barely leading 50.44% to Conservative John Dearling's 49.56%, a difference of about 30,000 votes.

However, thousands of provisional, absentee, and ballots from military members and overseas citizens still have to be counted, Lial Secretary of State Alan Dillon (CNS) said Wednesday.

"This race is extremely close, and I will personally work to ensure that every Lialan's vote is counted," Dillon told the NPF at a news conference Wednesday afternoon.

The final outcome will likely not be known for days or even weeks, Dillon said.

On election night, Mr. Mickeravi was hopeful, but stopped short of declaring victory.

"We're leading at the moment, and that is wonderful news to hear. But we want to wait until we know that we know that we know," he said at his campaign celebration in Monvaille.

As of Wednesday night, Mr. Dearling's campaign confirmed the state senator from Sonoma City will "not even consider conceeding until every vote is counted," a spokesman told the GBC.

"Obviously, it's a very close race at this point and there are still votes out there that need to be counted, and we won't make a decision until we know that every vote has been counted," Dearling told the media Wednesday afternoon.

Asked if he would consider legal action, including a recount, Dearling replied, "we'll take it on a day-by-day basis."

"Not all of the votes have been counted yet, so we can't make a decision as to what we're going to do until every vote has been counted," he said.

Secretary Dillon told reporters Wednesday more ballots are being counted than expected, because voter turn-out was much higher than his office and independent analysts predicted.

"In the days running up to the election, we were predicting anywhere from 28 per cent to 33 per cent. Our early estimates are now showing that turn-out was about 40 per cent," Dillon said, which is still low for a general election. "So there are several hundred thousand more votes that need to be counted than we anticipated there'd be, so our local elections officials are having an influx of ballots to count and process."

The last-minute surge in turn-out could be attributed to the building tension between the candidates toward the end of the campaign, as well as last-minute efforts to get out the vote.

"We know that a lot of people stayed home because they are apathetic and disenchanted with politics, some stayed home because of bad weather or because they didn't know either of the candidates very well. But I think the fact that both candidates made an effort there at the last second really grabbed a lot of people's attention and made them want to have a say," Dillon commented.

The initial count will not be finished until mid-to-late next week, Dillon's office said.

Danbury: Time To 'Move On' From Sherber Scandal

Senior CNS senator says scandal is 'old news'

MAINE CITY, ARMANA--Senior Conservative senator Chuck Danbury has heard enough about his fellow Conservative colleague's sex scandal, and he thinks it's time the press--and the Nationalist Party--move on.

"It happened months ago, and it was unfortunate, it was a mistake, it was stupid, but it's time for everybody to move on," Danbury said in an interview with GNN.

He's talking about Senator Driscoll Sherber of Biereland, who in June 2009 admitted to having an extramarital affair with a Senate aid. Mr. Sherber, who campaigned as a pro-family conservative, apologized for the affair publicly, and subsequently retreated to seclusion for the next several weeks. His Conservative colleagues condemned his behavior, but none called for his resignation.

Since the scandal broke, Nationalists have not ceased to bring up the senator's checkered past, often indirectly referrencing it in campaign ads.

"We sent Driscoll Sherber to Mavocke to get things done for our state, and what has he been doing? Well, not the work of the people, that's for sure," says one attack ad, that is currently running in Biereland's seven media markets.

But Nationalists and the media need to stop bringing up the scandal, Senator Danbury said in his interview with GNN.

"This is old news. Everyone knows about it now, we don't need the media and Julie Grendhau reminding us every time we turn on the TV," Danbury said, referring to NAT candidate Julie Grendhau, who narrowly lost to Sherber in a 2009 special election, and is seeking a rematch in 2010.

But Bill Allen, a political reporter for the Greene Mountain Press, Brookings' daily newspaper, says Sherber's personal affairs should be public knowledge.

"When the voters send someone to Mavocke to represent them, they have a right to know the character of that person, and what kind of person they are, both publicly and privately," Allen said.

Grendhau's campaign agrees, although takes a slightly different approach to the matter.

"For us, it's not so much that Driscoll Sherber had an affair. That's his business, that's his life, his decision. The real issue is that we sent him to Mavocke to get things done for Biereland, and we now know that during the first several months he was in office, he was not doing anything for our state. He was too consumed with his personal relationships," said Mark Connal, a spokesman for the Grendhau campaign.

The Sherber campaign says both the media and the Grendhau campaign are exploiting the issue for political gain.

"This is a personal, private family matter, and instead of letting the Sherber family heal and deal with this situation on their own terms, Julie Grendhau and her friends in the media are making a spectacle out of it," Sherber campaign spokesman Jeff Todd told the NPF.

A lawyer for the Sherber family also requested privacy during the coming election.

"For the sake of the senator, his wife Emily, and their children, we would respectfully ask for a certain degree of privacy," attorney Mark Whalberger said.

Last week, Glitter magazine reported rumors that Sherber and his wife are negotiating an interview with the GBC, however, Mr. Whalberger would not comment on the accuracy of those claims.

As Special Election Nears, Voter Apathy Rises

Low turnout expected in Lial's special senate election

CLOTHEN, LIAL--With Lial's special Senate election only three days away, the two main candidates are gearing up for a hard-fought finish. But while the candidates are expected to be out in full force Tuesday, the voters aren't.

Lial Secretary of State Alan Dillon is predicting between 28-32% voter turnout, in a state that is typically very civically engaged. Turnout is expected to be low for several reasons, Dillon said.

"There are many factors, including the timing of the election and just a lack of interest," Dillon said.

He also noted inclement weather may keep some voters from making it to the polls.

The apathy among voters is especially disappointing for Dillon, who was hoping an historic election would spur voters to participate.

"Unfortunately, a lot of people are simply disconnected from politics right now and more focused on other things," Dillon said.

The race is pitting Conservative state senator John Dearling against Nationalist Henry Mickeravi. The race is historic because if Mickeravi wins, he will become the first Israeli-born senator in Grassadellan history. Mickeravi was born in Jerusalem and lived there until age 21, when he moved to England to attend Oxford University. He later lived in the United States, working briefly with then-First Lady Hillary Clinton, who is now the U.S. Secretary of State. Mickeravi has lived in Grassadella for the past 20 years.

Dearling is no stranger to politics in Lial. He has served as a state senator for one term, and previously ran for the Senate in 2008, narrowly losing to fellow Conservative Libby Marshall. Before launching his campaign for the special Senate election, Dearling was running for lieutenant governor. However, when the Senate seat opened up, he switched races. Mr. Dearling has vowed to resume his campaign for lieutentant governor if he loses the special Senate election.

The seat both men are seeking to fill was vacated after incumbent Juslana Thompson (NAT) was appointed Ambassador to Japan by President Menuhaeo. Under state law, a special election must be held if the senator who vacated the seat has more than two years left in their term. Thompson was re-elected in 2008, prompting a state-wide special election. Both Dearling and Mickeravi were chosen by their respective state party committees to represent their parties in the special election.

Throughout the campaign, which began in late December, both candidates have squared off on taxes and the economy. Mickeravi has stated his support for the economic stimulus package and for higher taxes on wealthy individuals and couples, while Dearling has stated his opposition to such measures. The race has been fairly civil throughout its duration, although last week, both candidates engaged in political, and in some cases, personal attacks. Mickeravi accused Dearling of being controlled by the radical members of his party, and Dearling attempted to tie Mickeravi to the "dirty politics of Monvaille," referring to the historic reputation of political corruption in the state's largest city.

Polls show voters aren't very familiar with either candidate, as neither one has wide name recognition. However, most polls have shown Mickeravi with the edge going into Tuesday's election.

Senator's Office Evacuated After Bomb Found In Parking Lot

Police: Bomb was 'highly-explosive'

WILMINGTON, TRINTON--Authorities are still investigating after a homemade bomb was found in a parking lot outside an office belonging to Trinton senator Kelsey Frascanio (CNS).

Police are still combing through the parking lot and the surrounding neighborhood in southeast Wilmington, trying to find any clues that might help lead them to any suspects.

The explosive device, which a police spokesman described to the NPF as "highly-explosive," was found outside Frascanio's office in a cardboard box in the parking lot around 2:00 pm eastern time. The box was lying in plain view, according to police.

"This was a very, very powerful device that could have caused severe damage and considerable loss of life," Oceanview County Sheriff Luke Garrett told the media.

The office and several surrounding homes and businesses were evacuated while the Sheriff's department bomb squad handled the device. It was diffused on-scene, and later detonated at a police safe zone.

The office was closed for the rest of the day, and will remain closed, a spokeswoman for the senator said.

Police have no suspect, but are analyzing security camera footage to find any clues. They're also appealing to the public for any information.

"If anyone has any information, saw anything suspicious, heard anything suspicious, we would encourage them to come forward and let us know so that we can pursue every lead," Garrett said.

Frascanio was not at the office at the time the incident occurred, but in a written statement, said she was "relieved" no one was injured and is taking the matter "very seriously."

"I am relieved no one was injured and extremely grateful to the police officers and bomb squad members that responded to my office," she said. "This incident is frightening, and any time my staff members or constituents are in danger, I take that very seriously."

It's unclear if Wednesday's incident is related to two past incidents involving homemade pipe bombs. In September, a pipe bomb was found outside the suburban Treeton office of Congresswoman Shannon Tribe (C-MON). A week later, a similar device was discovered in a trash can outside the office of Congresswoman Jill Yateri (N-POG). No one has been arrested in those cases, and police have few clues, though the NAI and local authorities are releasing little information.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the NAI or the Oceanview County Sheriff's Department at 1-800-321-4400.

Frascanio Changes Mind, Backs Kalamaza Over Reedsworth

CNS senator switches endorsement in senate race

WILMINGTON, TRINTON--Conservative senator Kelsey Frascanio has caused a stir in Trinton's Senate race, after switching her support in the CNS primary.

Last August, Frascanio privately pledged her support to Rep. George Reedsworth for the CNS nomination to challenge incumbent Grace Kemp (NAT). Kemp is seeking a fourth term in the Senate, while Reedsworth has represented Trinton's 7th Congressional District in the central part of the state for six terms.

Back in August, the strongly-conservative Frascanio, who narrowly defeated Reedsworth in a Senate primary earlier in 2009, acknowledged her policy differences with the much more moderate Reedsworth, but told party leaders she would overlook those differences and support her former foe anyway.

But despite the urging of Frascanio and other party leaders, Reedsworth never declared his candidacy, and has yet to do so. In the meantime, ultra-conservative state senator Randy Kalamaza of Vristo Colonado announced in October he would seek the CNS nomination to challenge Kemp. Kalamaza is known for his staunch conservative views and his often-partisan nature. During their time together in the state legislature, Frascanio and Kalamaza were close allies, frequently co-sponsoring legislation.

Rumors Frascanio would back Kalamaza over Reedsworth, despite earlier promises, have been circulating for months. But the freshman senator, who is also Trinton's first female senator, ended all speculation Friday when she announced she is backing Kalamaza for the Senate.

"Randy has the leadership, the strength, and the capability to run for the Senate and take on the liberal lions that stand in the way of real change," Frascanio said in a prepared statement. "He will be a passionate fighter for conservative values in the Senate, and will be a close ally of the conservative movement."

Frascanio did not address her previous support for Reedsworth during the Friday press conference. However, when asked about the matter Saturday afternoon by reporters, she defended her decision.

"The party has to coalesce around a candidate. We have to be united. We can't afford to wait for prospective candidates to make a decision."

When asked specifically about Congressman Reedsworth, Frascanio responded, "as far as I know, George Reedsworth has not announced his candidacy. Officially, he is not running for the Senate in the state of Trinton."

Technically, Frascanio is correct. Reedsworth has not declared candidacy as of yet. However, the congressman has not ruled out a bid, close friends say.

"Officially, he is not running, and this is kind of a stab in the back to George, because he was told several months ago she would support him and now she's playing politics with endorsements," one friend, who asked not to be identified, told GNN.

Frascanio's office says the senator's endorsement decision was "nothing personal."

"Senator Frascanio believes in doing the best thing for Trinton, and she believes that Randy Kalamaza is the best choice to represent our state," spokeswoman Mary Albertson told the GBC.

Reedsworth's office declined to say when the congressman will decide on a potential Senate bid. A spokesperson would only say the congressman will make an announcement Monday, but would not elaborate as to the nature of that announcement.

Trinton's other Conservative senator, Greg Baxter, would not comment on the CNS feud in his home state. A spokesman said an endorsement for any candidate from Baxter is unlikely.

Blaisek Defends Stimulus Vote

Conservative senator says stimulus 'had to be done'

FARENCE, REMMINGTON--CNS Senator Curt Blaisek is defending his support for the controversial economic stimulus package, which passed both houses of Congress back in October 2009.

Not only did Blaisek vote for the $315 billion stimulus package, he helped craft the bill and negotiate a compromise between both parties on the bill's passage.

"Curt Blaisek didn't merely vote for this bill, he drafted it. He worked with the liberal Nationalists and made a deal with them to make sure this failure of legislation passed. That's wrong and that's not what the people of Remmington want," Jeff Sandham, spokesman for the Remmington Conservative Coalition (RCC), a PAC, told the STAR network.

But in an opinion-editorial piece in the Remmington Star, Blaisek defended his vote for the bill, saying it "had to be done" and was a "necessary evil."

"No one hates unnecessary government-spending more than I do," Blaisek wrote. "But when millions of jobs are on the line, you cannot simply stand on the side-lines and do nothing. You must take immediate and effective action."

The stimulus package also has numerous benefits for Remmington, the senator argued.

"This bill is going to bring more than $155 million in road projects to Remmington, over $360 million for the construction of new schools and hospitals, and more than $400 million in tax credits and government grants to businesses and homeowners over the next five years. This money is going to help out our state in tremendous ways."

But fiscal conservatives are outraged by the passage of the stimulus bill, and Blaisek is the number one target in their cross-hairs.

"Curt Blaisek campaigned on a promise of reducing government waste and eliminating wasteful spending. He was elected on a platform of lower taxes and putting more money in the people's pockets. And now he has broken his promise and turned his back on Remmington taxpayers," Sandham said in a letter-to-the-editor to the Star.

Blaisek says that although the original stimulus package was necessary to pass, he would not support passing a second stimulus bill, if proposed in the Congress.

Candidates Line Up To Compete For E. Deschire Senate Seat

Candidates from both parties are jumping into the open race

DEROSA, EAST DESCHIRE--The Harvest State has been alive with a flurry of political activity after incumbent Conservative senator Seth Harkin announced two weeks ago he would not seek re-election in 2010.

The young, up-and-coming senator, who was elected in 2009, disclosed to reporters he is stepping down to care for his wife, Melissa, who has been diagnosed with leukemia.

Harkin's decision to not seek re-election has created yet another open seat for the CNS, which already has a tough election year ahead. Harkin's departure also creates an opportunity for the NAT to pick up what was once a safe Conservative seat.

Now, candidates from both parties are coming out of the woodwork to run for their parties' nominations. On the Conservative side, Congressman Sam Pyatt of Ridgeview was the first to declare his candidacy. State Senate Majority Leader Gerald Ivenroe, of Waverly, announced his candidacy last week. And Dillingham businessman Mike Aventhalle also joined the race last Thursday. Jim Reebis, a CPA and financial consultant from Clawfield, is exploring a run but has not made a decision yet, according to sources.

The NAT side became more crowded this week, with Secretary of State Allison Sweeten officially jumping into the race. Sweeten had been courted by NAT leaders for months, but eventually decided against a run for the Senate due to family concerns. She then changed her mind and filed for candidacy last week. She will face businessman John Blackman, of Hansboro, and former Senate candidate Marianne Licoule, who lost to Conservative Denna Halitz by a margin of 53-47%, respectively.

On Wednesday, former state senator George Capriatti (N-Hansboro) passed on a potential bid, telling reporters he is "not ready to jump back into politics just yet."

While Sweeten is the favored candidate on the NAT side, there is no clear front-runner for the Conservatives. And there's no guarantee Sweeten will have an easy ride to the nomination. Blackman, in particular, could present a formidable challenge to the party-favorite.

Harkin's announcement makes him the seventh Conservative who will not seek re-election in 2010. By contrast, the Nationalists only have one member, Brown Mourray of Deschire, who is not running in 2010.

Conservatives Will Have To 'Batten Down The Hatches' For 2010 Election, Congressman Says

CNS in for 'tough year'

GRASSADELLA CITY--The Conservative Party is in for a "tough year," according to one Damoign congressman.

Rep. Roman Chatskovy, a Conservative from Libney, a western suburb of Grassadella City, told the Grassadella City Times that the CNS will have to "batten down the hatches" for the 2010 mid-term elections.

"Nationalists definitely have the momentum going into the 2010 election, and we're going to really have to just batten down the hatches and hope we don't get too battered by the storm," Chatskovy said.

Chatskovy's comments come after several recent polls have shown growing distrust of and slumping support for the Conservative Party.

The strong anti-CNS tide that's sweeping the country may be the reason Chatskovy, who ran unsuccessfully for the Senate in 2008, is not running for one the two Senate seats up for election this year, although the congressman insists he has other reasons for passing up a Senate bid.

"This is just not the right time for me [to run for Senate]. I can do more for the people of Damoign by staying in the 13th [congressional] district," Chatskovy told the STAR network.

Nationalists also see the growing voter frustration with the Conservative Party, and have stepped up fundraising efforts and campaign tactics in an effort to boost their chances at recapturing control of the bodies.

"We believe 2010 is going to be an election of change in this country," Chris Wilco, spokesman for the national NAT Party told GNN. "Conservatives should be scared, because the voters demand a change."

Conservative Party Chairman Bob Viacrosa told the NPF he disagrees with Rep. Chatskovy's opinions.

"I don't agree with Roman [Chatskovy]. I think he's wrong. Sure, I think the Conservative Party is going to have a tough election, but I don't think we need to start conceeding defeat just yet. The voters will have a chance to line up our positions with that of the opposition, and I'm confident once they see the differences, the very clear differences, they will choose the common sense principles we have put forward," Viacrosa said.

Senate Minority Leader Shay Robertson (N-DMG) and Senator Debbie Madronas (N-DMG) are both up for re-election in 2010. Neither one has any official Conservative opponents as of now.

Sherber Rises In The Polls

Embattled senator improving in poll numbers

BROOKINGS, BIERELAND--Scandal-ridden senator Driscoll Sherber (C-BIE) is seeing a rise in his approval ratings, a new poll shows.

Sherber's popularity plummetted after revelations he had an affair with a senate aide were publicized back in June 2009. Since admitting and apologizing for the affair, the staunch Conservative partisan has struggled to regain the trust of his Conservative base. Even fellow Conservative colleagues in the Senate and Assembly have been reluctant to endorse his 2010 bid for re-election, or even to associate with him in general.

But now Sherber's approval rating seems to have risen from rock-bottom. His lowest approval rating on record was back in August 2009, when only 28% of Biereland voters said they approved of his job performance. That number has steadily risen over the past few months, however. And according to a new poll put out by Insiders, Sherber's approval rating for January now stands at 38%, a full 10 points above his low.

Still, that number is dangerously low for Sherber, who is seeking a second (and first full) term in the Senate this December. Furthermore, the troubled incumbent will face a rematch with wealthy heiress Julie Grendhau, NAT, who previously ran against him in 2009 as a Democratic-Reformist. This time, however, the NAT has convinced Grendhau to run as a Nationalist, and has pledged to invest heavy resources into the race.

"This is a race we are going to fight very hard to win," said Chris Drabry, spokesman for the Nationalist Senate Campaign Committee (NSCC). "Biereland voters are tired of reckless and irresponsible Conservatives like Driscoll Sherber messing things up in Mavocke."

Sherber's campaign responded by highlighting the senator's opposition to big-spending in Mavocke.

"If anyone's representing Bierelanders, it's Driscoll Sherber," spokeswoman Martha Kay Hatwer told GNN News. "It's liberals like Julie Grendhau that want to spend our nation into debt and force a radical environmentalist agenda down our throats."

The Grendhau campaign had no comment.

DEVELOPING STORY--Man With Grenade Prompts Collester Lock-Down

President, VP were not in danger ESF says

MAVOCKE--Everything has returned to normal at Collester this afternoon, after a man wielding a grenade outside the premises was arrested this morning.

Capitol Police would not identify the suspect, but say the 47-year-old man was armed with a 1976 British grenade, and was yelling threatening messages while trying to get past a security barrier on Collester's east side around 10:30 am eastern time.

The man was quickly arrested by Capitol Police.

Collester was briefly locked down for about 30 minutes, but neither President Menuhaeo or Vice President Don James were in danger, the Execusitve Security Force (ESF) said.

An explosives team was brought in to handle the grenade. It's unclear if the weapon was still functionable.

Collester and the surrounding streets were re-opened this afternoon at 1:00 GEST.

Menuhaeo, McCaren Promise Aid To Haiti

President calls earthquake a 'devestating tragedy'

MAVOCKE--President Menuhaeo and Foreign Affairs Secretary Jim McCaren today offered their condolences to the people of Haiti, and promised immediate aid to the Caribbean nation, which has been devestated by the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that hit Tuesday.

Haitian officials fear the casualty mark may reach several hundred thousand people. More than 3 million people were affected by the powerful quake, which struck near the country's capitol, Port-au-Prince.

"This is a devestating tragedy of epic proportions," President Menuhaeo said Wednesday at Collester. "We want the people of Haiti to know Grassadella stands with them and stands ready to help."

Foreign Affairs Secretary McCaren also promised immediate aid to the region.

"President Menuhaeo has authorized the immediate deployment of Grassadellan troops to Haiti, and our State department will work around-the-clock to help the people of Haiti," he said.

Haiti's prime minister, Jean-Max Bellerive, told American media Wednesday the quake damaged and has nearly destroyed Port-au-Prince.

"So many, so many buildings, so many neighborhoods totally destroyed, and some neighborhoods we don't even see people," Bellerive told the American network CNN.

President Menuhaeo has also asked Defense Secretary Jack Hastings to ready two Grassadellan naval ships for possible deployment to the Caribbean.

Rosen To Take On Magiscanti In Harvannah

Former navy lieutenant to challenge freshman CNS senator


HARLYNE, HARVANNAH--Freshman Senator Andre "Bourret" Magiscanti (CNS) has his first general election opponent.

Former navy lieutenant Glenn Rosen, who previously ran for governor in 2008, announced his candidacy for the seat currently held by the vulnerable Magiscanti, who is running for his first full term.

Rosen is the first NAT candidate to declare candidacy for the seat. Christian activist Jill Webster (C-Ebram's Point) announced back in November she would challenge Magiscanti, who has a moderate voting record, for the Conservative Party nomination.

At a morning press conference at the Gifford Gardens in east Harlyne, Rosen said he is running because "the people of Harvannah and the people of this country demand change."

"After eight years of Conservative dominance, the country is thirsting for change. Bourret Magiscanti is part of the problem, not the solution, and it's time for him to go," Rosen said.

Rosen likely will have a clear path to the NAT nomination, as Gov. Mark Andres and Lt. Gov. Mia Xhi have both declined to seek the Senate seat. Congresswoman Dawn Mattosh has also turned down an invitation to run. Ashford's Landing Mayor Peter Levenko has not ruled out a run for Magiscanti's seat, but told a local newspaper he is "leaning toward not running."

It didn't take long for the Magiscanti campaign to jump on Rosen's announcement.

"Glenn Rosen is another typical Nationalist--a massive-spending, big government, liberty-seizing liberal," spokesman Jared Polana told the Harlyne Sun newspaper. "The people of Harvannah want someone who will stand up to government waste and fight for their rights."

Polana did not mention Magiscanti's support and vote for the $315 billion economic stimulus package, which was derided by the senator's fellow Conservatives as wasteful and unnecessary.

Polls suggest Magiscanti could be in for the political fight of his life, as a national anti-Conservative tide is sweeping the nation, and his lackluster approval rating (46%) make him an easy target for Nationalists.

Slain Officer Laid To Rest

Thousands turn out to honor fallen hero

PETERSBORO, WILKONSHIRE--Thousands of people turned out Tuesday to honor slain police officer Jeffrey Ziegle, 35, who was gunned down while responding to a domestic violence call last week.

Ziegle, who worked for the Saragen Police Department, was responding to a domestic violence call in the neighboring jurisdiction of Petersboro on Tuesday night, December 29th, when he was gunned down by a man at the residence. Ziegle retained consciousness for a few minutes after being shot seven times, and stayed on the radio with dispatchers as the suspect fled the scene. Ziegle later died at the scene before emergency crews could transport him to a hospital.

The suspect was arrested the next morning by police across the border in POG. Authorities arrested Wayne Alan Austin, 43, in the town of Sutterton, about two hours away from the shooting scene. Austin was found lying unconscious and intoxicated on a residential street. He has since been transported back to Wilkonshire, where he is facing 1st degree murder of an officer of the law and felony eluding charges. Austin's criminal record is lengthy, with numerous prior convictions for burglary, assault, driving while intoxicated, and domestic violence.

The murder of Officer Ziegle has shocked this small southeast Wilkonshire community, which rarely sees violent crime. Hours after Ziegle's death, the steps of  the Saragen Police Department headquarters were covered with flowers and messages. Fundraisers for the fallen officer's widow and two children, ages five and three, have earned thousands of dollars.

The outpouring of support continued Tuesday, as more than 4,000 people packed Laughdale Christian Church to attend a public memorial service to honor the fallen officer. Almost 3,000 attendees were seated in the church's main sanctuary, but over 1,000 watched the service via closed-circuit television at a local high school.

Law enforcement officers from around the country, as well as dignitaries such Governor Caroline Jepsey and Lt. Governor Mindy Orneisson were in attendance to pay their respects.

Calling him a "brave hero," Jepsey said Ziegle's death was a reminder of the "ugliness humanity can sometimes display," and assured his family his death would not be in vain.

Saragen Police Chief Randy Altmeier also spoke, telling memorable stories about Officer Ziegle, some comical, some profound.

"I'll never forget Jeff telling me one day that his first commitment was to God, then his family, and then the community he served," Altmeier said. "And he truly was committed to his community, even unto the last moments."

After the three hour long memorial service, Ziegle's body was transported by car more than 140 miles to his hometown of Pittington, Province of Grassadella. The hearse carrying the fallen officer was escorted by a small caravan of police vehicles. The south-bound lanes of the Greenland Highway were shut down briefly to allow the motorcade to pass through.

The Mosier County Sheriff's Department is still investigating Ziegle's death and specifically, why Ziegle responded to the call, which was several miles outside his area of jurisdiction. Sheriff Ron Wayneman said the investigation could take weeks.