Giorchani On The Rebound, Polls Show

Conservative Gubernatorial Candidate Still Trailing Opponent, But Improving

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

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

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

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

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

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

But Giorchani's campaign disagrees with Wilkins' assessment.

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

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

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

Crouwsky Recovering After Suffering Heart Attack

D-R Icon In Stable Condition At Damoign Hospital

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Almone, King Tour Tornado-Ravaged POG And MON

Lawmakers Request Federal Funding Following Deadly Tornadoes

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

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

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

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

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

King echoed Almone's feelings.

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

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

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

Byelle also offered comfort for those affected by the storms.

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

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

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

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

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

Vassater Breaking With Party; Backing Olsen For Governor

Former NAT Candidate Endorsing D-R Challenger

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

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

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

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

He also unleashed his harshest criticism of Andres to date.

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

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

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

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

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

Chaveau, Chatskovy Win DMG Primaries

No Upsets In Damoign House Race


Despite a strong last-minute effort, there were no upsets in last night's House primary elections in Damoign. The two favored candidates coasted to victory in Friday's primaries.

On the NAT side, Vicksburg Congresswoman Jean Chaveau walked away the victor after a long, grueling campaign. Rep. Peter Bennelly of East Grassadella City and Rep. Allison McGint of southern Damoign both had last minute surges that threatened Chaveau. However, in the end, Bennelly and McGint were unable to catch the 12-term Vicksburg congresswoman in the polls.

The final vote count released this morning by the Damoign Secretary of Elections office shows Chaveau garnering 672 delegates, followed by Bennelly with 649, and McGint with 622. Jack Schlessinger attained 604 delegates and Rep. Dahmariche Michaelikov with 597.

One surprise in Friday's NAT primary was the collapse of one-time front-runner Jack Schlessinger. The staunch anti-war liberal entered the race late in early January, but raised significant amounts of money; making him a strong contender. Initially, his entrance into the race provided strong momentum; even giving him enough strength to knock Chaveau out of first place. However, Schlessinger, who was the party's nominee in the 2006 House race, lost his first place standing last week when Ms. Chaveau reclaimed her front-runner position.

Another surprise last evening was the shocking victory of Dahmariche Michaelikov in Halp County. Michaelikov, who had long been in or near last place in the race, refused to drop out of the race despite heavy pressure from party leaders and rival campaigns.

On the Conservative side, Rep. Roman Chatskovy of Mattinow maintained his strong lead over former Grassadella City mayor Sid Hoffa, despite not winning any primaries on Friday night. Hoffa won all five of Friday's primaries in Dirkson, West Lake, Reever, Harvannah, and Porchain Counties, but his margin of victory was slim in most of those, allowing Chatskovy to still gain delegates. The final count shows Chatskovy with 1,523 delegates and Hoffa with 1,381.

In her victory speech at Grassadella City's Lanborn Centre, Jean Chaveau congratulated all of her opponents, most of whom dropped out earlier. At one point in time, there were fourteen candidates in the NAT race. "What a race this was," Chaveau said. "And all of those who ran against me were fine candidates, and I really do love them all and respect them all. They're all great people, and my hope is that we're going to move on and unite, and take back this country."

Across town, Roman Chatskovy spoke to supporters at the Lincoln Towne Centre, telling supporters, "we've surprised a lot of people. You know, the media told us that I was unelectable because I was too young, too inexperienced, too liberal for the conservative party. And look where we are now."

Both Chaveau and Chatskovy will now move on to the November general election, where they will also face DR candidate Diane Rosselli.

Rescue Crews Work To Reach Trapped Miners

Rescuers Work 'Around The Clock' To Reach Trapped Miners

GEORGETOWN, LIA--Rescue crews are working tirelessly to reach three miners who became trapped Monday afternoon when the underground chamber they were working in caved in.

The three men were nearly done with their work shift at the Rainer Valley Mine when the chamber they were in collapsed, mine officials say. Rescuers immediately arrived on scene, but have so far been unable to reach the trapped miners.

"We are doing everything we can, at this point, to reach these men as soon as possible," Ken Gammath, Executive Vice President for the mine said at a press conference Tuesday. "We will do everything in our power, and we have a dedicated group of rescuers working on this. I assure you we're are doing everything possible."

The victims' names have not been released, as mine officials work to contact family members.

It's unclear exactly how the cavern collapsed. Officials believe blasting that happened earlier in the week near the site may have contributed to the collapse.

An air sample test was conducted Tuesday, showing that the air is safe to breathe. Mine officials also say the men should have at least three days' worth of food and water.

Rescuers are continuing to try to get in contact with the miners.

The small suburban town of Georgetown, in eastern Herman County in northeastern Lial, has been shaken by the collapse. The mayor of Georgetown, Ernie Lynn, asked community members to pray for a miracle.

"I'm personally asking every member of our community to pray for a safe recovery of these men."

Rainer Valley Mine is closed, and will be closed all week, company officials told GNN NEWS.

Almone To Pick Rep. Quince To Replace Jeffs

POG Governor Will Nominate Congressman Charlie Quince To Fill Jeff's Seat


LILLAC CITY--POG Governor Donna Almone will select Rep. Charlie Quince, a conservative from SE POG, to replace out-going delegate Newton Jeffs, according to sources close to the governor.

Almone had initially considered several potential replacements, including Reps. Linda Bosworth, Rick Newbunn, Bobby Hafen, Fran Habries, Connie Careum-Corchelli, Reuben Stykes, and Assembly Majority Leader Mark Rolen.

The governor ultimately decided on Mr. Quince because he has the best chance of confirmation and is not as divisive as other potential candidates, sources say.

Attempts to reach Representative Quince at his Mavocke office were unsuccessful.

An aid to Governor Almone told GNN NEWS affiliate WLIC-TV that the governor is "considering all possible replacements" for delegate Newton Jeffs.

Byelle Nominates Olhney For AG, Malvron For National Security Secretary

Opposition Calls Nominees 'Pitiful Choices'

MAVOCKE--President Byelle announced Monday that he has nominated Deputy Attorney General Beau Ohlney to replace current out-going Attorney General John Agnew, who won the governorship of Wilkonshire last week. Ohlney has served as the deputy for the last six years.

And Byelle has also nominated Eric Malvron, a security analyst and business owner of Malvron Securities Inc., to replace outgoing Secretary of National Security Bradley Davidson. Mr. Davidson had just been elevated to the position of secretary after his predecessor Robert Austin quit back in September. Davidson just won the lieutenant governorship in Veroche last week.

Analysts say Ohlney will be an easy confirmation for the administration, but Malvron's confirmation could be up in the air.

"We don't know anything about Mr. Malvron yet. I think the delegates will have to ask some tough questions before they can confirm him," GNN NEWS analyst James Madine said.

In response to Byelle's slections, House Majority Leader Dlg. Joan Fhonda (C-DES) said she is pleased with the nominations, and praised the president for nominating "well-qualified" men for the posts. Opposition leader, Dlg. Shay Robertson (N-DMG), said he opposes both nominees, calling them "inexperienced" and "pitiful choices."

Antonnage Defeated In WIK House Race; Houston Loses To Griffith In VER

NAT Wins Big In Wilkonshire, Conservatives Gain Majority In Veroche

LILLAC CITY--The POG Secretary of Elections Office has released the latest election results. And in a surprise upset, NAT Terry Branlin, the mayor of Provincetown, defeated two-term delegate Marie Antonnage by a narrow margin, 51.16% to 48.84%.

Also in Wilkonshire, NAT Sylvea Stone easily defeated CNS Tara Hadley by a margin of 59.76% to 40.24%. Stone announced intentions to run for the seat a year ago. Hadley is the conservative mayor of Christon.

NAT businessman Tom O'Hearn also fended off conservative Congressman Dennis Brock, defeating him by 51.14% to 48.86%.

In the Wilkonshire gubernatorial race, which was expected to be close, Federal Attorney General John Agnew handily passed NAT civic activist Caroline Jepsey; garnering 52.38% to Jepsey's 47.62%.

In neighboring Veroche, NAT Linda Van Auhn of Lake City beat conservative businessman Todd Argouth of Twin Lakes, as expected. Van Auhn received 53.19% while Argouth received 46.81%.

In Veroche's only House contest, NAT Aaron Tobias Griffith barely beat conservative Representative Brent Houston. As of last night, Griffith received 51.02% to Houston's 48.98%. Houston is the nephew of former president Dave Houston.

The rest of the House positions in both Wilkonshire and Veroche were uncontested. In Wilkonshire, current POG delegate Newton Jeffs (CON) won with 98%, and NAT John Warner-Patterson won with 91%. In Veroche, conservatives Evelynn Blankenship and Reps. Kit McHenry and Niles Gilcrest all sailed to victory with over 90%. NAT candidate Mark Peoninski also won with 90%.

Both states' lieutenant governor positions were only sought by one candidate each. NAT Mindy Orneisson won the position in Wilkonshire, and in Veroche, Federal Secretary of National Security Bradley Davidson (CON) ran unopposed.

President Byelle has not said who will replace both WIK Governor-Elect John Agnew and VER Lieutenant Governor-Elect Bradley Davidson in his administration. POG Governor Donna Almone will now also have to select a replacement for Newton Jeffs. According to POG law, Almone must select a conservative candidate, because Jeffs' seat was held by the conservatives. After the governor selects a replacement, the POG state legislature must approve by a vote.

The new delegates will begin serving on Monday, December 17th. The balance of the House of Delegates is still in Conservative favor, with the CNS holding 38 seats, the NAT with 24 seats, and the DR with 3.

Chames Bows Out Of Damoign House Race

Two-Term NAT Representative Says Lackluster Fundraising Reason For Dropping Out

MATTINOW, DMG--Damoign Rep. Sasha Chames announced Wednesday she is dropping out of the race for the open House of Delegates seat after her months-old campaign has gained little traction.

Lackluster fundraising was the primary reason Chames, a two-term congresswoman from Damoign's 12th district, dropped out.

A poll released by the GBC yesterday was the final straw, according to campaign spokeswoman Mary Lou Dome. The poll showed Chames with just 2% of support from likely NAT voters.

"Sasha had been campaigning for months, and it just never gained traction. We couldn't compete with the other high-powered candidates. There wasn't enough money out there for us," Dome said.

The race for the open seat is a crowded one. So far, there are now 13 NAT candidates (not including Chames) in the running, and on the conservative side, there are 9 announced candidates. There are also four DR candidates, as well as one independent running.

Yesterday's poll surveyed both parties. On the NAT side, Rep. Allison McGint was in the lead with 14%, followed closely behind by Rep. Peter Bennelly with 13%, Mark Andres, Mayor of Harvannah with 12%, and Rep. Melissa Chavez-Hollings with 10%. Other candidates included Rep. Jean Chaveau-9%, Rep. Shard Bergen, former house candidate Jack Schlessinger, and Rep. Betsy Deedrick all with 8%, Rep. Dahmariche Michaelikov-5%, Reps. Bruce Cardinelli and Michelle Gates-4%, Mattinow Mayor Chaz Beio-3%, Chames-2%, and environmentalist Melissa Swamp-1%.

The conservative side was split also. On top was Grassadella City Mayor Sid Hoffa with 26%, followed by Rep. Ron Wilder with 20%, and Christian leader Mercer Diego with 18%. Rep. Roman Chatskovy registered 14%, Rep. Kyle Rhimren-9%, Rep. Patty Waters-6%, conservative businessman Michel Dillon-5%, Rep. Brandon O'Malley-3%, and conservative journalist Rali Ramont with less than one percent.

It's tough for voters to decide when there are so many good candidates, says Damoign University politics professor Dan Besch.

"The problem for voters is there isn't just one candidate that they love more than everyone else. There are three or four or five candidates that they like equally, and so it makes it very tough. That's why you're not seeing one candidate way out in front. Because voters are split," he said.

And, as Ms. Chames discovered, money can be hard to get.

"Some candidates are just better at raising money, and they really solicit the funds a lot better than others," Besch said. "It's all about fundraising."

Congresswoman Chames has no hard feelings though. After announcing she's leaving the race, she endorsed one of her opponents, Allison McGint.

"I think Allison is the best candidate for the job. She's a great friend of mine, and I know personally that she'll put the people of Damoign first."

McGint's campaign returned the pleasantries, thanking Chames for her "valuable service on behalf of all Damoignites and Grassadellans," and praised her for her "strong leadership in the National Assembly."

Chames says she will now focus on running for reelection to the National Assembly.

Pacinow To Run For WEL House Seat

Popular NAT Moderate To Run Against Conservative Icon Lauren Bronure


WELLINGTON, WEL--Congressman Lincoln Pacinow (N-WEL) made it official: he's running for the House of Delegates. The Wellington Nationalist filed the necessary paperwork with the Wellington Secretary of State's office Tuesday afternoon.

Speculation that Pacinow might run began back in June, after Conservative Lauren Bronure, the widow of the late billionaire Paul Bronure, announced her candidacy for the seat. An NAT party insider, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told GNN NEWS that party leaders privately urged Pacinow to run, because they believe he is the only NAT candidate that can beat Mrs. Bronure.

Lauren Bronure is seen as a formidable candidate. Though she has only lived in Wellington for three years, she became a house-hold name across the country following the sudden car accident that took her husband's life in 2003. And she and her family are close friends of President and First Lady Byelle's. Her conservative ideas resonate strongly with Wellington's predominantly conservative voters.

However, Pacinow is a conservative Nationalist. He is pro-life, pro-gun rights, and has supported a larger military. Furthermore, he has served in the National Assembly for over 30 years and is widely popular throughout Wellington.

Though a political new-comer, Bronure is no stranger to politics. Her husband was urged on several occasions to run for office. In 2004, her daughter Lindsey Bronure ran for Congress in Wellington's 6th district, winning handily. In 2006, her youngest daughter, Katie Bronure, won a congressional seat in Lial's 1st district. The Bronure sisters became the first sisters to serve in Congress simultaneously. Additionally, Paul Bronure Jr. is exploring a possible run for office in Lial, the family's home-state, in 2008.

Bronure's campaign had no comment on Pacinow's candidacy.

Kelley Wastes No Time Getting To Work

New DES Governor Isn't Waiting To Get Things Done

NORTH BERIVIAN, DES--Newly-elected governor Sharon Kelley (CON) isn't wasting any time getting to work in her new role. Since taking office last week, the governor has made several staff changes, laid out a transportation plan, has called a special session and urged the legislature to reduce property taxes, and has called for smaller classroom sizes in public schools, although she did not give specific details of how she would solve over-crowded classrooms.

According to sources within the administration, Kelley fired 14 members of the governor's office and cabinet that had previously served under former governor Jim Schiffer. She has also reshuffled some staff, sending them to different departments and cities.

Last Tuesday, she laid out a transporation plan that calls for more attention on the roadways north of Berivian, the state's largest metropolitan area. Kelley says she will pay for the road improvements and construction projects using money that is currently funding state parks, welfare programs, and the state energy department. Kelley says too much money is being spent on these programs, and some of it could be taken out those budgets and used for much-needed transporation projects.

On Thursday, Kelley convened a special session for the state legislature, asking lawmakers to pass a vote lowering property taxes across the state. The legislature has not voted on the measure yet, but many nationalists have pledged to join Kelley and the minority conservatives in voting for the measure.

"We need to ensure that Deschirean families are not being taxed out of their homes," Kelley said. "The only way we can do that is by passing a property tax measure that would reduce those taxes and reduce the burden on our citizens."

Though early in her term, Kelley is moderately popular. In a poll released last week, 51% they "liked" her, while 64% said they "approved" of what she was doing as governor.

"There are some people who don't like her, because they're bitter about the election, but most people still agree that she is focusing on the right issues and that she's doing an okay job," said Rick Miller, political analyst for WBER-TV in Berivian.

Kelley spokeswoman Amy Hanes said the governor is "going to work and getting things done right away."

"Getting things accomplished is especially important, because in this state, we have had two years of Jane Sonda doing nothing; nothing legal, that is; and we've had one year of Jim Schiffer doing nothing," Hanes said, attacking Kelley's predecssors.

The state NAT party responded by saying, "Sharon Kelley is ultimately another broken promise of Conservative change. She is a radical, far-right conservative disguised as a champion of bipartisanship. In the end, however, Deschireans will realize her only strategy as governor is attacking nationalists."

Bosseau Campaign Advisor Resigns Amid Tax Evasion Reports

Donnigan 'Knew He Had To Go'

GRANTHAM, NWP--A campaign advisor to Conservative gubernatorial candidate Jacqueline Bosseau resigned Tuesday, after revelations about past tax evasion came to light.

John Donnigan, who had been a senior advisor to Bosseau since her campaign began two months ago, officially submitted his resignation Tuesday. According to the Federal Tax Commission, Mr. Donnigan owes some $300,000 in back taxes on a home he inherited from his father. He still currently owns that home, which is located in rural Sabadohn County in central New Portsmouth.

Donnigan's attorney, Don Fineman, told GNN affiliate WYNB-TV that the former campaign aide is working with his legal team to pay off the back taxes as soon as possible.

"Mr. Donnigan will work to immediately pay off his debts. He regrets withholding payment on them for so long."

The Bosseau campaign, meanwhile, insisted that neither Ms. Bosseau nor any of her campaign staff knew of Donnigan's tax evasion.

"Jacqueline was totally unaware of Mr. Donnigan's hidden past, as was everyone else within the campaign," spokeswoman Julie Renner said in a statement. "We are shocked," she continued, "and deeply disappointed that Mr. Donnigan had engaged in these illegal activities and failed to tell us, and we also regret not researching his past more thoroughly."

Dale Rochey (NAT), Bosseau's opponent in the race, pounced on the resignation, calling it "classic corruption in politics." A Rochey campaign spokesman said in an e-mail to GNN NEWS, "this is another example of how Jacqueline Bosseau has chosen to surround herself with people who are corrupt and dishonest. Integrity in government must come first, and that's why voters are going to elect Dale Rochey governor of New Portsmouth on December 16th."

Jail time is possible for Donnigan, but unlikely, as he is cooperating with officials. Instead, he will most likely face additional fines, possible community service, and be placed on probation.

New Portsmouth Governor's Race Could Be Close

Polling From Both Candidates Shows Tight Race

YANCEYBURG, NWP--With just weeks to go before the December 16th gubernatorial race in New Portsmouth, the race is already shaping up to be a close contest.

Polling from both candidates show the race will likely be close. NAT candidate Dale Rochey's campaign released a poll last month that showed him leading by an astonishing twenty-two points over his CON opponent, political activist Jacqueline Bosseau. The poll showed Rochey with 62%, and Bosseau with 38%.

Rochey, a state delegate from Dayle-Locke, heralded the poll results as proof of a strong campaign.

"The [poll] results show that delegate Rochey is the strongest candidate in this race, and the most preferred candidate. It looks as if he will win this election hands-down," Bart Tobald, spokesman for the Rochey campaign said.

But Bosseau's campaign released a poll earlier this week that shows the Conservative from Grantham has made up some ground. In fact, the poll, conducted for her campaign by INT Suveys, shows Rochey leading by about 11 points with 56%, Bosseau with 44%. The Bosseau campaign said their results show the race will be "anything but a 'hands-down' victory for Rochey."

"In just three weeks, Jacqueline Bosseau has nearly halved Dale Rochey's lead. As voters continue to learn about Jacqueline and hear her positive message of change and reform, they will increasingly support her and join her in the campaign for government over-haul," Bosseau spokeswoman Clarissa Cheans said.

Both polls showed Rochey with a wide lead in the Gadley County, the most populous county which includes the state's largest city and liberal stronghold Dayle-Locke. In both polls, Rochey was also leading significantly in Lanard County, arguably the most liberal county in the state, and Bosseau led in the southern region of the state in Haines and Ruxley Counties. The battleground counties, it appears, are going to be Bethany County, which includes the capitol and second-largest city Yanceyburg, and Erlwick County, which includes Boroughton.

"This election is really going to come down to Bethany County and Erlwick County," said Dr. Tim Cummins, professor of domestic politics at Southern New Portsmouth University in Hestock. "If Jacqueline Bosseau is going to win, she must win Yanceyburg at least by five points, and she must win Boroughton by the same."

Rochey is campaigning on several issues. He has said as governor, he would like to increase education spending and do more to protect the environment. He also wants to increase healthcare coverage for the state's 615,000 citizens and wants more gun-control laws in place.

Bosseau is ardently opposed to more taxes. She has vowed to cut taxes if elected. She also wants to improve the state's transportation system by investing more money in the NH-1 corridor project. She is supportive of allowing hunting on the west side of Mt. Sabacca National Park, and she says she is adamantly opposed to gun-control.

The one and only debate between the two candidates will be held December 2nd, 7:00 PM in Yanceyburg.

Rochey's Lieutenant Governor candidate, Jane Hanman, of Grantham, will also debate Bosseau's running mate, Evan Kershing, of Hestock, in Dayle-Locke on December 6th at 6:00 PM.

VER, WIK Primary Races Extremely Close; Some Candidates Not Conceding Defeat Yet

Argouth Narrowly Wins Four-Way-Race; Houston With Small Lead Over Pastor; Jepsey And McDougal Too Close To Call

Friday was the scheduled primary election date for newly-formed states Veroche and Wilkonshire. And tonight, some of the races are still too close to call.

In Veroche, Todd Argouth, a Conservative city official from Twin Lakes, has claimed victory in the four-way race for the nomination for governor. Poll results released by the POG Secretary of Elections show Argouth garnered 29.23%, followed by Lake City municipal politician Richard Scholinger with 27.69%, Lake City businessman Steve Leona with 24.62%, and former professional football player Steve Serpino with 18.46%.

Scholinger was favored to win, but intense campaigning from Argouth late in the race reaped extra votes for the Twin Lakes candidate. Despite the early poll results, Scholinger is refusing to concede defeat. Both Leona and Serpino called Mr. Argouth earlier this evening and conceded. Argouth is urging Scholinger to do the same. A spokesman for the Scholinger campaign said in an e-mail statement the campaign will wait until tomorrow to make a concession.

Also in Veroche, Rep. Brent Houston (CON), the nephew of former president Dave Houston, was in a tight race with Rick Pastor, a molecular engineer from the north-side of Lake City. The two were vying for the conservative nomination for the Veroche House position in the December 4th, 2007 general election. Houston was recruited late in the race by the far-right wing of the state party to compete against the self-admitted liberal Pastor. Houston earned 51.11% of the vote, with Pastor getting 48.88%. As of tonight, Pastor had conceded, but has vowed to run as an independent or possibly a Democratic-Reformist.

And in Wilkonshire, two nationalists were running against each other in a contentious race for the party's nomination for governor. State delegate Caroline Jepsey was up against Marcy McDougal, a social agent from the northwestern part of the state. In the beginning stages of the race, Jepsey held a 30 point lead over the lesser-known and under-funded McDougal. But Ms. McDougal closed the gap in the final days of the election, and the latest results show Jepsey barely leading with 50.47% and McDougal with 49.53%. McDougal, however, refused to concede until the results are recounted tomorrow.

The POG Secretary of Elections Office says votes will be re-counted in the morning. Certified results, however, will not be available until two weeks later.

Former President Houston's Father Passes Away

FEAS, PONDELLA--Former President Dave Houston's father, Richard V.H. Houston, died on Friday at his home in Feas. The elder Houston had been diagnosed with prostate cancer back in March 2006.

His father's illness was the reason the former president left Grassadella for his parents' native Pondella. At the time, Houston's departure drew sharp condemnation from his critics, who said his move out of the country was unpatriotic.

Richard Houston and his wife Viola, both born in Pondella, later moved to Grassadella, where their children were born. Their fourth child, David, rose quickly in politics, first serving as mayor of Grassadella Falls and later as Governor of Lial.

A Houston family spokeswoman did not say much to the media, only saying the family "is grieving the loss of their beloved husband, father, and grandfather."

Richard Houston is survived by his wife, 84-year-old Viola, of Feas, Pondella; son Dave Houston; daughters Liola Kemp, Arnellson, DMG; Lyla Hursch, Anderson, NWP; Jason Houston, Kenoly, LIA; and Richard Houston Jr., Clothen, LIA. Houston was age 85.

National Assembly Overwhelmingly Votes To Begin Troop Withdrawal In Iraq

Assembly Measure Stuns Collester; Not Expected To Pass In House Of Delegates

On Monday, the National Assembly shocked President Byelle by voting overwhelmingly, with strong bipartisan support, to begin troop withdrawals in Iraq.

The measure was introduced by Reps. Pat Nelson (N-LIA), Pat Alosha (N-LIA), Nathan Lister (N-MON), Don Cheager (N-POG), Richard Oxnard (N-DMG), and John Yannes (N-POG). It calls for Grassadellan troops to begin coming home in January 2008, and gradually draw down over the next year, if conditions permit.

Supporters said the bill would finally bring Grassadella's involvement in the unpopular war to an end. Opponents argued terrorists would only wait for troops to leave before resuming attacks, and, they contended, the bill would stimie progress being made in Iraq.

After hours of intense debate, the final vote tally was 150 in favor of withdrawing troops and 120 against, or 55% in favor, 45% against.

According to the Assembly Clerk's Office, all Nationalists except one, Rep. Mary Kay Allen (N-MON), voted for the measure. An astonishing 15 Conservatives voted for it, including: Roman Chatskovy (DMG), Andrea Doorfield (LIA), Dave Eckleberg (CEA), Tom Etheridge (REM), Niles Gilcrest (POG), Pat Leemore (DMG), Robert Maclan (ARA), Robert Mitford (WEL), Rick Newbunn (POG), Brian Paricho (POG), George Reedsworth (TRI), Greg Simms (POG), Allan Virtue (CEA), Patty Waters (DMG), and Ron Wilder (DMG).

Only two of the eighteen Democratic-Reformists, Reps. Jessica Blaine (DMG) and Devon DuBois (WEL), voted against the resolution. All five Liberal Democrats and all three independents voted for it.

Political observers note that many of the conservatives who crossed the aisle and voted for the resolution are either facing a tough fight for reelection or are running for a higher office in 2008. Chatskovy, Waters, and Wilder are all vying for the open House seat in Damoign, while Gilcrest, Reedsworth, and Maclan are also running for open seats in Veroche, Trinton, and Armana, respectively.

Still, the margin the bill passed by was astounding to all. Assembly Speaker Josty Pottsman (C-POG) told the GBC he was "surprised it had so much support," and Majority Leader Mark Rolen (C-POG) told the STAR Radio Network he was stunned at the vote.

"I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw the votes coming in," he said.

Even opposition leaders were surprised at the broad support the resolution gained.

"I honestly was not even sure this thing would pass," Assistant Minority Leader Bruce Cardinelli (N-DMG) told GBC Radio.

Assembly Minority Leader Rep. Paul Leitcher (N-WEL), said in a press conference afterward he was happy the bill passed.

"I'm actually elated," Leitcher said. "I applaud my colleagues, and especially those from the majority party who came over and joined our side. I am so proud of you. Today, I am very proud to not only be a Nationalist, but more importantly, I am proud we have spoken on behalf of the Grassadellan people. We have spoken for the majority of the public, and we have voiced the consensus loud and clear."

Collester did not immediately comment on the vote results; only saying in an e-mail statement to the media it was "stunned" that so many conservatives crossed over.

The measure now goes to the House, where it is expected to fail. President Byelle has also promised to veto the resolution if it does pass, and an over-riding majority is unlikely in either house.

Kelley Wins In DES Governor's Race; Becomes First Minority Governor In Nation's History

2007 Election Coverage--DES Gubernatorial Election

BERIVIAN, Deschire--In a state that is still reeling from a scandal surrounding its first governor, Jane Sonda, voters went to the polls Tuesday to elect a temporary governor to serve out the remainder of Sonda's term.

The four way race, which pitted Lieutenant Governor Jake Kemp (NAT) against Conservative Sharon Kelley, an African-Grassadellian state delegate, also included Democratic-Reformist businessman Grant Riley. A fourth candidate, interim Governor Jim Schiffer (NAT), who initially declined to run but changed his mind after the filing deadline, was not on the ballot but launched a vigorous write-in campaign.

With all precintcs reporting, Deschire Secretary of State Mary Jo Richardson reported Kelley with 32.26%, or 665,865 votes; followed by DR candidate Riley with 30.65%, or 632,634 votes. Lt. Gov. Kemp was next with 27.42%, or 565,965 votes; and Schiffer, with his write-in campaign, garnered 9.68%, or 199,801 votes. About four percent of Deschireans voted for other minor party candidates.

At her victory party, held at the De Louise Royal Ambassador Hotel in Arch, Kelley told local television station WDES-TV she was "elated" and promised to "serve the people of Deschire with my whole heart."

"This is a new day for Deschire. As governor, I won't put myself first. I won't put my friends first. I won't put politics first. I will serve the people with integrity and honor. I will bring much-needed change this state so desperately needs."

Kemp, who held his election night rally at the Kisho Club in downtown Berivian, told WOAB-TV he was "surprised" the race was not closer.

"I really thought it would be closer than that," Kemp said. "Obviously, I'm disappointed that the voters of Deschire have chosen to take our state in a different direction. I think--I mean, despite all the scandal in North Berivian with the former governor, I think...I think we really had something good going and our state was on the right track...we were better off than ever before."

Even though he lost, Democratic-Reformist candidate Grant Riley, a businessman and self-made millionaire, was pleased with his performance.

"I'm upbeat about this though," Riley told GNN NEWS. "Even though I lost, I look at the poll numbers, and we're down only 33,000 votes. I defeated an incumbent official, Lieutenant Governor Kemp, and I nearly beat Sharon Kelley. This just goes to show I really can effectively compete and am a major contender."

Riley told supporters, who had gathered at the Marian Restaurant in West Berivian, that he was proud of his campaign. He also hinted he may run again for governor in the 2008 general election.

"I'm proud of what we've done. We didn't win, but we came extremely close. And it proves that we ran an effective campaign, and that our message resonates with voters. Our message is simple: Nationalists and Conservatives are too busy with partisanship and political in-fighting. Only a third-party candidate can bring about the change our state needs. Folks, we still need change. Our message is still relevant. Our work is not finished."

Asked if he was leaving open the possibility of running in 2008, Riley replied he was unsure.

"That's a decision I'd have to think about with my family. It's going to be a while though before we make a decision."

Riley also congratulated Ms. Kelley on her victory, but reiterated the importance of change.

"I'm very happy for Sharon Kelley, I think she ran a fabulous campaign. I certainly wish her the best as governor, but the bottom line is we still need change, and I sincerely hope she will deliver that."

Jim Schiffer, whose last-minute write-in campaign was seen as a long-shot, conceded he stood little chance of winning. Gathering with his supporters at the Donglin Hotel in downtown Berivian, Schiffer congratulated Sharon Kelley and complimented his opponents for a well-ran election.

"My congratulations to Ms. Kelley. And my thanks to Lieutenant Governor Kemp and Mr. Riley as well," Schiffer said.

The state's election office's records show that Kemp raised the most money, over $1.3 million, compared to Kelley's $1.2 million. DR Grant Riley, who poured hundreds of thousands of his own money into the race, reported just over $1 million. Schiffer's supporters raised about $350,000, most of it just days before the election.

As recent as last week, polls showed a dead-heat race between Kemp, Kelley, and Riley. One showed Kemp with 30%, Kelley with 28%, Riley with 25%, Schiffer with 5% and 12% undecided.

Election results show Kemp led in southern Deschire, with southern Berivian county and all of Canman county voting strongly for him. Kelley's support lied in the northern, more affluent communities of Berivian county, and most of Prince, Courtsman, Messlin, and Kingsman counties. Kelley also had a strong lead in the Ridgeview area and most of eastern Deschire. The Dillingham-Dunham metro area in the northern part of the state, just barely went to Kemp. The Brookeford area in west-central Deschire, voted mostly for Riley.

During the campaign, Kelley attacked Kemp for his being tied to the Sonda scandal, though state police said there was no evidence to suggest Kemp was involved. Kemp counter-attacked Kelley as unqualified to lead the state and a mud-slinger. Riley portrayed Kemp as out of touch with voters and Kelley as inexperienced. Schiffer, who attempted to enter the race but was denied entrance by the Deschire Supreme Court, was attacked by the Kemp campaign, which believed he would siphon votes from the Lieutenant Governor. Schiffer attempted to high-light his accomplishments during his four months in office, and claimed he brought unity to Northbridge and was moving the state forward.

With the majority of the vote, Sharon Kelley has become the nation's first African-Grassadellian governor, and the first minority governor. She is also Deschire's first governor to be unmarried.

GNN NEWS has learned President Byelle and Conservative Party Chairman Bob Viacrosa both called Sharon Kelley to congratulate her.

The Secretary of State's office will officially certify the election results in the next three weeks.

Deschire Supreme Court: It's Too Late For Schiffer To Run

Special Election For Governor Turning Into A Mess Of Scandal And Litigation

NORTH BERIVIAN, DES--The Deschire Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday that it is too late for current interim Governor Jim Schiffer (NAT) to get his name on the ballot for the November special gubernatorial election.

Schiffer took over as interim governor following the impeachment of former governor Jane Sonda (NAT). While Sonda was governor, Schiffer was the Majority Leader in the Deschire State House of Delegates, constitutionally making him next in line to the governorship, but only temporarily until a special election could be held.

Secretary of State Mary Jo Richardson chose November 4th as the scheduled date for the special election. The last day to file to run was October 14th.

That's where the problem with Governor Schiffer started. Back in June, upon taking over as governor, Schiffer said he would not run in the special election. Instead, he said at a news conference he would "only serve as governor until someone else can serve permanently."

With Schiffer out of the running, Lieutenant Governor Jake Kemp (NAT) announced he would run. Conservative Sharon Kelley also threw her hat into the ring. And in August, DR candidate Grant Riley said he too will run, making it a three-way race.

Governor Schiffer remained silent on any plans for candidacy, even though in September, a group of his supporters started two groups to draft him to run. "Deschireans for Schiffer" and "Friends of Jim Schiffer" both urged the governor to run, and began raising money to promote his unofficial or non-existent candidacy. As of October 27th, Deschireans For Schiffer had raised $60,000 and Friends of Jim Schiffer had raised over $350,000. The two groups had even purchased advertisement slots on billboards, TV commercials, and signs in an effort to draft the governor.

Immediately, the Kemp and Riley campaigns filed a joint-lawsuit, alleging that Schiffer was having his supporters campaign for him to give him name recognition without officially filing for office and going through the normal candidacy procedures. Initially, Governor Schiffer denied rumors he might decide to run at the last minute. But, on Friday October 26th, he announced he would seek to run in the special election after all.

According to court records, Schiffer attemped to file to run, and at first, Secretary of State Richardson accepted his registration and told him that he could still run despite being passed the registration deadline. Following news of Richardson's approval, conservative lawmakers filed a lawsuit and publicly attacked Richardson for election fraud.

"It appears Secretary of State Richardson thinks she can just skirt past the laws and only apply them when she feels like it," State Rep. Richard DeLongo (C-West Berivian) said.

After learning of a lawsuit against her, Richardson withdrew her approval of Schiffer's registration, and denied his request to be on the ballot. Schiffer then filed a lawsuit against Richardson for misleading him and causing irrevocable damage to his campaign.

"If I was ineligible to run, why did Secretary Richardson tell me I was eligible?" Schiffer asked at a news conference Monday. "She misled me; she lied to me, actually, to my face. She told me I could run. She told me it was legally acceptable for me to run. And then, a few days later, she comes back and tells us she made a mistake, we were not eligible to run."

Conservatives are skeptical.

"I think, personally, that Jim Schiffer and Mary Jo Richardson were in on this together. At first, Jim Schiffer wasn't interested in running. But at the last minute, he changed his mind. By then, it was too late, but he still wanted to run, and Richardson, being the good friend and fellow NAT that she is, tried to quietly get him on the ballot; hoping no one would notice. But we did notice, and when we caught her red-handed, she lied and said she made a mistake, and then she back-tracked and pretended to be tough and deny Schiffer's candidacy," said State Representative Mary Robbins (C-Sanderson).

Richardson denied any purposeful wrong doing, while conservatives attacked both her and Schiffer.

After the fallout, the lawsuits were taken before the Supreme Court. Schiffer's campaign argued that their candidate should still be allowed on the ballot because he was misled by the Secretary of State's office. The Kemp and Riley campaigns argued against that, saying that Schiffer was simply to late to file.

In a 5-4 ruling, the Supreme Court denied Schiffer's request; agreeing with the other campaigns that Schiffer was past the deadline and no exceptions should be made.

"Mr. Schiffer and his campaign might indeed have been misled by Secretary of State Richardon's office, but that does not change the fact that he was still too late to file," wrote Justice Judy Parwinkle on behalf of the majority. "Allowing him to enter the race now would not be fair the other candidates in the race, the political parties, nor the voters of Deschire."

But in dissent, Justice Maria De Parnova said, "Mr. Schiffer, regardless of any politics, should be allowed to enter the race because it is clear that, if he wasn't misled by the Secretary of State's office, he was certainly misinformed. He and his campaign should not be penalized simply because the Secretary of State made a mistake."

The ruling means Governor Schiffer will not be able to have his name placed on the ballot. He also cannot officially declare his candidacy or fundraise. However, his supporters can run a write-in campaign, in which his name would not appear on the ballot but voters could write him in instead.

In a separate ruling, the court dismissed the lawsuit from the Kemp and Riley campaigns that alleged Mr. Schiffer was allowing his supporters to run a campaign on his behalf without officially declaring candidacy. The court also dismissed a lawsuit from conservative lawmakers against Secretary of State Richardson, saying there was not sufficient evidence. However, the court did refer the case to the Deschire Provincial Police (DPP) and the House and Assembly ethics committees for further review.

In response to the court's ruling, Governor Schiffer said he was "disappointed" and "displeased" but respected their ruling. Jake Kemp's campaign said it was "happy the court upheld election law." The Riley campaign did not return comment.

Schiffer did not say if he would abandon his bid for the governorship, or if he would continue with a write-in campaign.

BREAKING NEWS--Jurors Sentence Helgin

BREAKING NEWS

GNN is following breaking news out of Lincoln County in Damoign, where jurors in the former delegate Dave Helgin case have agreed on a sentence for the convicted sex-offender.

Former Remmington Delegate Dave Helgin (NAT), who was convicted of various crimes last week by the same jury, was today sentenced to three and a half years in prison.

Helgin was charged with numerous counts of having sex with a minor, indecent liberties, transporting a minor across state lines with the intent to commit a crime, misuse of office, and obstruction of justice. He was convicted on several of those counts. He could have faced a maximum sentence of eight years in prison.

In its decision, the jury, made up of 6 women and 6 men, said that Helgin should not face the maximum sentence for several reasons, but most importantly because Melody McMahon, the woman he had sex with, who at the time was a minor but is now 19, consented. Helgin, now age 48, was 46 years old at the time of the affair. Against her family's wishes, McMahon asked the jury to use restraint in their verdict and sentencing.

"Please remember that I was a willing participant, and it was a mutual relationship. Please take that into consideration when you make the decision. It's not entirely his fault," she said during court testimony.

The jury responded by saying in a statement,"We cannot give Mr. Helgin the maximum sentence in this case because the other participant in these activities consented to sexual intercourse. However, we have concluded that Mr. Helgin did use his position of power, authority, and influence, both as a high-ranking public official and as an employment supervisor, to threaten Ms. McMahon and pressure her into engaging in activities she wanted no part in. And we conclude furthermore that Mr. Helgin misused his office, clearly violated interstate laws, and was not truthful with investigators during the initial stages of the case."

"As a result, we feel a sentence of three years and six months is sufficient in this case. Mr. Helgin will be held in a medium-security prison facility, at the Judge's discretion."

Immediately after the sentence was read, Mr. Helgin was visibly upset. His legal team spoke with GNN after the court proceedings.

"We're disappointed, but we realize this could have been much worse," Dave Darangelo, Helgin's attorney said.

The prosecution team, which included federal attorneys from both Remmington and Damoign, the two states where the crimes occurred, said the jury was "brave to stand up to a high-powered politician."

"The jury showed Mr. Helgin and any others like him that might consider committing such crimes in the future that political status has no bearing on the outcome of a case. No one is above the law. You're political connections can't save you from the consequences of your own actions," Robert Delerno, one of the attorneys told GCAM-TV News afterwards.

The McMahon family had little to say about the sentence.

"We're very grateful this entire ordeal is over," said William McCabry, an attorney for the family.

Reaction on Capitol Hill was split. Most of Helgin's colleagues had no comment.

Majority Leader Dlg. Joan Fhonda (C-DES) told the GBC, "it's a sad day when a member of Congress is convicted and sentenced in a criminal courtroom."

A spokesman for Minority Leader Dlg. Shay Robertson (N-DMG) said, "Our thoughts and prayers are with Delegate Helgin and his family through this troubling time. We are also praying for healing for both the McMahon family and the people of Remmington."

Yesterday, the House of Delegates voted overwhelmingly to censure the former Remmington nationalist. Members from both parties joined in a 49-6 vote in favor of censuring him out of the Body. The six delegates who voted against the measure included nationalists Brian Brookes and Barry Moore, both of Ceona; Grace Kemp of Trinton, Kory Brown and Debbie Madronas of Damoign; and conservative Robert Hannity of Monomi.

Helgin's attorneys declined to say if they will appeal the sentencing.

The McMahon family has also launched a civil suit against the former delegate for an undisclosed amount of money.

Neither side had any comments on that case.