Gilcrest Falls To O'Neil In Veroche Senate Primary

Gilcrest becomes second incumbent senator to lose a primary this season


TWIN LAKES, VEROCHE--Incumbent Senator Niles Gilcrest (Conservative) has lost his party's nomination for re-election to his more conservative opponent Talley O'Neil.

With 98% of precincts reporting, Gilcrest was trailing O'Neil 53%-46%, according to Veroche Secretary of State Bridger Beckham. Some military and absentee ballots still need to be counted, but Beckham estimated only about 40,000 more, making it almost impossible for Gilcrest to surpass O'Neil's vote total.

That means Sen. Gilcrest is the second senator this election season to lose his party's nomination for re-election. Last week, Michael Kreighorn lost the NAT nomination in Biereland, and is now running as an independent. Gilcrest is considering an independent run, according to campaign staff, but has not made a final decision.

"That's something we're looking at and something the senator might want to do but it really comes down to what he wants and what his family wants," campaign spokeswoman Mary Ann Rice said.

For months, O'Neil led the much more moderate Gilcrest in polls. Teaming up with Veroche's Conservative lion, Sen. Evelynn Blankenship, who is also up for re-election this year, O'Neil attempted to oust Gilcrest and other moderate members and replace them with "true Conservatives."

In recent weeks however, Gilcrest, who has touted his moderate voting record as proof of independence, closed the gap between he and O'Neil, and political pundits were unsure what would result from Tuesday's primary election.

At around 10:00 pm Tuesday night, O'Neil claimed victory at her celebration in Lavington in east Veroche. Calling the result "close but decisive," she praised her supporters for their "strong effort" and claimed her primary win is "proof the voters of Veroche want a Conservative who will stand up for them."

Further south in Twin Lakes, the state's second-largest city, Gilcrest conceded O'Neil would likely win, but told his supporters "this is not over."

"We're not throwing in the towel just yet because we know this fight is not over," Gilcrest told his disappointed but hopeful supporters.

In Veroche's other senate election, which received less attention from the media because it was less combative, fiery incumbent Evelynn Blankenship fended off the moderate former mayor of Lake City, Richard Scholinger. With 97% of precincts reporting Tuesday night, Blankenship had 54% to Scholinger's 45 per cent.

"We're delighted and deeply humbled the people of Veroche have renominated me for a second term. I feel very blessed," a beaming Blankenship told the media outside her campaign celebration in north Lake City.

A spokesman for the Scholinger campaign said the mayor is also considering a potential independent bid in the general election, but would not comment on specifics. Veroche is one of seven states that allow candidates to file as independents if they lose the primary election.

Blankenship will now go on to face Nationalist David Acade in the general election, while O'Neil will face Neal Neeley (NAT). The Nationalists are heavily favored to win both races.

Kreighorn To Run As Independent

Incumbent senator loses primary, will run as independent


AUBURNE, BIERELAND--Senator Michael Kreighorn (NAT), who narrowly lost to former Brookings Mayor Steve Pottomeaux in last week's senate primary election, will now run as an independent in the general election.

The tense primary election ended last Tuesday, when Pottomeaux narrowly beat the incumbent Kreighorn by a margin of 52%-47%, respectively. Pottomeaux, who had the backing of more liberal Nationalists, was expected to win the race against the much more moderate Kreighorn.

On Monday, Kreighorn announced at his home near Auburne he will run as an independent in the December general election. That means he will now face Pottomeaux (NAT) and Conservative candidate Robert Browning.

The three-way race, which many Nationalists fear will split the NAT vote, does not seem to worry Kreighorn.

"I believe the people of Biereland will vote for the best candidate, plain and simple," he told reporters outside his home. "That's why I'm running as an independent, because my party doesn't support me, but the voters do. I've got Nationalists, Conservatives, Democratic-Reformists, Independents...all are supporting me. People from all political parties and backgrounds are supporting my candidacy. That proves that our campaign is truly independent."

Reacting to the news, Pottomeaux did not specifically call on Kreighorn to withdraw from the race, but said, "a two-way race between me and Robert Browning would be best for the party," and added, "typically the unsuccessful candidate acknowledges the will of the people and withdraws his or herself from the race. That's just a sort of courtesy."

Not surprisingly, the Browning campaign welcomed Kreighorn's newly-independent candidacy.

"We believe that all credible candidates should be welcomed at the table, and if Senator Kreighorn feels he belongs in this race, then he should be allowed to run," Browning campaign spokesman Kyle Englehardt told the Greene Mountain Press. "Robert Browning is looking forward to debating Steve Pottomeaux and Michael Kreighorn."

Biereland Secretary of State Steven Yang confirmed to GNN that Kreighorn did file the necessary paperwork to run as an independent. Biereland is one of seven states that allow candidates to run as an independent candidate after losing a primary election.

The most recent senator who lost a primary election and then subsequently ran as an independent was Lee Schefsky, a Conservative from Carova, who lost the Conservative nomination in 2008 to then-state senator Tyler Dodd. Schefsky then filed as an independent, and the two went on to the general election to face Nationalist Ann Kocheni, who ended up winning.

A similar situation unfolded in December 2008 in Biereland's special senate election in which incumbent David Parker (NAT) was running for re-election. Parker was opposed by Conservative Driscoll Sherber and Democratic-Reformist Julie Grendhau, and while Grendhau won the first round of voting, she did not reach the necessary 45% to win. A run-off ensued between Grendhau and the underdog Sherber, and resulted in a narrow victory for Sherber.

It appears the Kreighorn-Pottomeaux-Browning race could head to a run-off like in 2008's special election. Biereland's other senate race, a rematch between Sherber and Grendhau, also is a three-way race, with the addition of D-R candidate Lylan Wyler. Many believe both races could end up in tight run-offs between the top two candidates, something both major parties want to avoid.

Thieves Nab Paintings Worth $105 Million In Grassadellia City Art Heist

Metro Police and forensics looking for clues in overnight heist

GRASSADELLIA CITY--Investigators are trying to determine how a group of art thieves stole more than $105 million dollars worth of paintings from the Gallagher Art Museum in downtown Grassadellia City overnight.

The heist occurred around 2:00 am early Saturday morning at the Gallagher, which is in the heart of downtown Grassadellia City. Museum officials noticed the missing art after arriving early Saturday morning for work. Security camera footage from the museum shows four men dressed in all-black. One man was armed with an automatic assault rifle, police said.

"We do know that four men robbed the museum last night, taking five paintings in all," Chief Barry Whitemore, of the Grassadellia City Metropolitan Police (GCMP) told the media Saturday morning. "At this time we have no leads, no witnesses. This appears to have been a very well-organized, well-thought-out crime."

Museum officials have released information about the stolen works. They include: "Mailenne de la Covine" by the famed Spaniard Pablo Picasso, "The Old English Townne" by 17th century English artist William Rumbleham, "A Walk on Lake Shalemore" by the early 19th century Grassadellian artist William Covely, "Dance at the Sycamore Tree" by Bedroqueian artist Anna Fable, and "Mi Resoncita" by 1800s Spanish painter Elian Corozano. The works totaled a combined worth of more than $105 million.

"We are devastated at this huge loss," Dr. Jeffrey Zidall, director of the Gallagher said at a press conference Saturday morning. "These thieves have not only stolen priceless pieces of artwork, they have also stolen a huge piece of the culture that defines our nation."

Grassadellia City Mayor Kellan Kastol called the heist a "brazen robbery of culture and intellect," and vowed to catch the suspects.

"Let those who did this know: our city will not tolerate the theft of art that is precious to our history and our culture. You will not go unpunished," Kastol said.

The Art Association of Grassadellia (AAG) has already posted a $1.25 million reward for anyone who leads police to the suspects.

The Gallagher Museum is closed indefinitely while forensics teams comb the property for clues.

POG Senate Candidates Headed For Run-Off Elections

No candidate from either party won majority in delegate race


OWENS PARK, POG--The race for Province of Grassadellia's open Senate seat is far from finalized, after no candidates from either party failed to reach a 50 per cent majority in the delegate race needed to avoid a run-off.

Tuesday marked the end of the state's delegate race, an election system that involves smaller elections in all of the state's 122 counties. If a candidate can attain 50% of the delegates up for grabs, they automatically become the nominee. But because candidates from neither side were able to reach the 50% threshold, both sides will now head to a run-off election scheduled for almost three weeks from now on September 7.

Advancing on the Conservative side are Rep. Bobby Hafen Jr. of the 19th Congressional District in central POG, and Rep. Julie Dennings of the 7th District, which covers the western suburbs of Lansdale.

The Nationalist run-off will pit Congresswoman Diane Coke of the 6th District against former Lieutenant Governor George Mercott, who slightly edged Rep. Deacon Busby (10th District) in the delegate race Tuesday night, securing the second spot in the run-off.

Only the top two candidates advance to the run-off elections.

Election night saw the candidates celebrating and reflecting on the race.

Gathered at a 'victory rally' in the town of Riggens in southeast POG, Hafen proclaimed 'momentum is on our side,' and warned supporters to 'dig in to the trenches' for the run-off.

"Julie Dennings is a formidable opponent and we need to spend the next three weeks pointing out the differences on policy and leadership styles, and the good voters of POG will decide who the best representative for our state will be," Hafen said in his victory speech.

Across town, Dennings tried to rally her troops.

"Part one is over. Now on to part two," she told a crowd of about 800 people. "Bobby Hafen and many other prominent Conservatives want you to believe he is the chosen candidate, and the decision has already been made final. It hasn't been made final yet. The voters will have their say in three weeks and until then we will keep reminding people that this race is not over. Bobby Hafen has not been annointed to represent our party. He has not been crowned the nominee yet," Dennings said.

On the other side of the state, where the three Nationalist candidates gathered in Owens Park to watch election night returns, the debate seemed more civil.

"This is a long, long race, but a very rewarding one," Coke told supporters at the La Creme Restaurant in downtown Owens Park. "Over the next three weeks, we will continue to share our message of responsibility in government, accountability, and leadership."

George Mercott thanked supporters for delivering a last-minute victory over Deacon Busby, which he attributed to his big margins of victory in western POG.

"We couldn't have won this race without the strong support we received in the western part of the state, and I thank each and every one of you for voting for me," he said. "You could have stayed home and not participated but you choice to get involved and boy, did you make a difference."

The Busby campaign tried to put a positive spin on the evening's disappointing results.

Speaking to reporters on Owens Park's northeast side, Busby acknowledged the delegate race was a 'nail biter' between he and Mercott, but expressed relief at the quality of the two remaining NAT candidates.

"Diane Coke and George Mercott are two very strong candidates, and I know that either one of them could take this seat for us and put [the NAT] on the road to a super majority in Congress," Busby told a local reporter.

After speaking to reporters, Busby declined to endorse either of his former rivals. However, anonymous sources within the campaign told the NPF Wednesday the congressman is expected to throw his support to Coke later this week.

All four candidates are now clamoring for last-minute endorsement from party figures.

Hafen has already been endorsed by 11 of POG's 15 Conservative members of Congress, including former rivals such as 1st District Rep. Fran Habries (C-Canton), Rep. Tanner Zannie (26th District), and Rep. Reuben Stykes (25th District).

Only freshman Rep. Nancy Garblake (15th District) has endorsed Dennings. Congressman Mark Rolen and businessman Terry Silvi, who both previously opposed Hafen and Dennings in the delegate race, have declined to endorse either remaining candidate.

On the NAT side, the endorsements are more evenly distributed, with Coke gaining the support of former primary opponents Reps. Paula Tulane (16th District) and Maria Adebos (4th District), and Mercott landing an endorsement from Rep. Jim Mahenas (8th District).

Congresswoman Jill Yateri, the party's Senate nominee in 2008, has yet to endorse, but friends close to her say she may possibly endorse Mercott due to a bitter disagreement with Coke during the primary battle. Her endorsement could lend liberal support to the much more moderate Mercott.

POG Secretary of State Max Kiesling (NAT) said he expects voter turn-out for the run-off elections to be around 30 per cent.

Biereland Senate Primary Turns Nasty

Biereland Nationalists deeply divided over increasingly bitter primary


BROOKINGS, BIERELAND--The deeply divisive Nationalist senate primary in Biereland is putting one senator on the attack and another on the defensive.

Incumbent Sen. Michael Kreighorn, who won a special election in December 2008, is facing a primary challenge from former Brookings Mayor Steve Pottomeaux. Now Kreighorn, a moderate, is accusing a fellow Biereland senator, Conservative-turned-Nationalist Steve Kolotano, of secretly recruiting the more liberal Pottomeaux to challenge him in the primary election.

In a debate Tursday night in Cedarie, Kreighorn accused Kolotano, who is also head of the Nationalist Senate Campaign Organization (NSCO), which is in charge of the party's Senate election strategy, of going behind his back and recruiting Pottomeaux.

"I'd like to say to Steve Kolotano: if you're not happy with me and my voting record, then talk to me in person. Don't go behind my back and secretly recruit someone to run against me. And especially don't lie about it afterwards and say you had nothing to do with it," Kreighorn said.

Pottomeaux responded, saying he made the decision to run on his own will.

"The decision to run for the Senate was my decision, Mr. Kreighorn, and I made that decision because I see a lack of leadership on your part. Steve Kolotano had nothing to do with this," Pottomeaux said.

Tuesday's debate was not the first time Kreighorn accused Kolotano and Pottomeaux of back-room deal-making. Throughout the campaign, the incumbent senator has dropped accusations.

"They don't like me. They're not happy with my voting record because they think I'm too moderate. So Steve Kolotano and some other Nationalist leaders went out and met with Steve Pottomeaux and asked him, begged him, to run against me and knock me out of the race," Kreighorn told a crowd at a campaign rally in March.

From the beginning, Kolotano has denied the accusations, saying he and Pottomeaux never met to discuss the race.

However, less than two weeks ago, the Kreighorn campaign presented leaked phone records from Kolotano's office, showing the senator had 17 calls to and from Steve Pottomeaux's home and office.

Documents made public by the Biereland Nationalist Party also show Kolotano met with Pottomeaux seven times over a period of four months, before Pottomeaux announced his candidacy.

Last Friday, Kolotano justified the calls and visits as "a friendship thing."

"Steve Pottomeaux and I are friends, and we talk regularly and meet regularly to discuss our personal lives and politics in general," Kolotano told the Greene Mountain Press. "Not once did I specifically ask him to run against Michael Kreighorn, or assure him he would have the party's support. I would never turn on a fellow Nationalist and I would never lie about that," Kolotano said while walking out of his Brookings office.

Regarding the accusations from Kreighorn, Kolotano called them "completely false" and "a misunderstanding."

"I think this is an emotional race, and Senator Kreighorn, who I consider a friend, is misinterpreting the facts. He's convinced that some sinister deal took place and the fact is it just didn't happen. And I hope that he accepts that and that this race can continue to take place in a cordial, respectful manner," Kolotano told the GMP.

Both campaigns followed up Thursday. Steve Pottomeaux's campaign released the following statement:

"Michael Kreighorn's vicious accusations and attacks on Steve Pottomeaux and Senator Kolotano are completely false and untrue, and have no place in this campaign. Michael Kreighorn should apologize to both Steve Pottomeaux and Senator Kolotano and publicly denounce his campaign's tactics."

The Kreighorn campaign refused to apologize and released this statement in response:

"As each day goes by, it becomes more apparent that Steve Kolotano recruited Steve Pottomeaux to challenge Senator Kreighorn in the primary election. What's worse is the evidence continues to point to a back room, secret deal made behind the back of Senator Kreighorn, and the many lies that were made to cover it up. Fortunately, the good people of Biereland will see what is going on in the Pottomeaux campaign, and will reject his kind of dirty politics. The people of Biereland want an honest senator, not someone who plots behind a fellow Nationalist's back."

The Nationalist Senate Campaign Organization (NSCO) office had no comment on the matter.

Almone Privately Asked King To Resign

POG governor asked Scott King Jr. to step down as Monomi governor at the height of the scandal


TREETON--Before he was recalled by the voters of Monomi, former Governor Scott King Jr. was asked to step down by his colleague, POG Governor Donna Almone, Chairwoman of the Governors' Board, King told the GBC Wednesday.

On Thursday, Almone confirmed to the NPF that she did ask King to resign at the onset of the scandal.

"I flew to Treeton to meet with Scott, and I was very blunt with him. I told him it would be in his own interest and in the best interest of the people of Monomi if he stepped down," Almone said.

But King refused to accept Almone's recommendation, she said.

"He told me he appreciated my concern and he knew that there was a lot going on and it could be damaging, but he wanted to stay in office. He felt that he was being ushered out by Erica Kinsley and other Nationalists who were trying to get rid of the scandal quickly during an election year, and he believed, he truly believed he was innocent," Almone said.

"I think he really thought he could ride this out and survive," she said.

King, who is boycotting local media out of anger for their coverage of his scandal and ousting, would only speak to the GBC Thursday in response to Almone's comments. He corroborated Almone's version of events, telling the GBC he refused to step down "because I was innocent, am innocent, always will be innocent."

Sources close to King's successor in the Governor's mansion, Erica Kinsley, told the Mavocke Capitol newspaper that Lt. Gov. Tom Cozier (C-CEA), Chairman of the Lieutenant Governors' Board, also made a visit to Treeton to meet with then-lieutenant governor Kinsley. The sources, who asked not to be named because they're not permitted to speak publicly, allege Cozier asked Kinsley to resign also.

A spokesperson from Kinsley's office would not comment Thursday. Cozier's office also did not return a call from GNN.

Despite being recalled back in April, Scott King is still very much in the media spotlight. He has filed a lawsuit against the state of Monomi, seeking monetary damages of $2.7 million and an overturning of state law for what he calls a "wrongful removal from office."

King says he is only suing for the amount of money the recall process cost him, and will donate all the proceeds to charity if he wins.

The former governor is also writing a book about his fall from power, and is reportedly in talks with the GBC about a possible TV show.

The GBC declined to comment, saying that all deals with the network are private until "finalized."

Curro Found Dead In Mattinow Hotel Room

Few details released in rock singer's mysterious death

MATTINOW, DAMOIGN--The body of famed rock singer Charles J. Coulin, better known as "Rocky Curro," has been found in a Mattinow hotel room, according to local police.

Curro, who for years was the lead singer and guitarist of the group Yellow Fever, was found dead in his Mattinow hotel room Saturday morning. The cause of death has not been released by police, who were notified by hotel staff around 7:00 am.

"We received a call from the staff that a male had been found deceased in his hotel room, and that individual was confirmed as Mr. Curro," Police Sgt. Dave Erickson told the NPF.

Curro, who has toured by himself for the past 12 years since Yellow Fever disbanded in 1994, was in Mattinow for a concert Saturday night.

Police are releasing few details but say the singer's body was discovered by hotel staff.

Curro's manager, Phil Tomlin, declined to talk to the media.

A spokesman for Curro's record label, StraightArrow Records, told the NPF the company was "shocked and saddened" by Curro's loss.

Jerry Lynkin, president of the Grassadellian Rock and Roll Association, said in a statement the GRRA was "deeply saddened by the death of this rock and roll legend."

Curro's family has also not addressed his death yet. The singer is not married and has no children.

The singer reportedly made his home in the Madagen area, though he also owned a loft apartment in Grassadellia City and a beach house in southeastern Damoign. There is no word on if and when police may search the residences.

Curro was a member of Yellow Fever for 12 years, ever since the band was first formed in 1982. During that time, the group toured the world and played with such groups as Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones.

When the group disbanded in 1994, Curro and the four other members went into virtual obscurity. Friends say Curro started touring solo because of financial problems.

Mr. Curro has also reportedly had problems with drug and alcohol abuse in the past. In 2002, he checked into a rehab center in Remmington for a heroine addiction. And as recently as 2007, he was back at rehabilitation center in Damoign for an alcohol and cocaine addiction.

Police have refused to say if his death is related to drugs or alcohol. A medical examiner will determine the exact cause of death on Monday.

NATGA, CGA Dole Out Money To Gubernatorial Candidates

Governors associations raise cash for gubernatorial prospects


DEROSA, EAST DESCHIRE--December may seem far away, but with the clock ticking until election day, political parties are ramping up their fundraising for important races.

And few have worked as tirelessly as East Deschire Governor Lynn DeMont (NAT), who is heading up the Nationalist Governors Association's (NATGA) campaign effort.

"We've got several candidates in several states that are really going to strike a chord with voters this election year," DeMont told STAR News.

And there are many strong Nationalist candidates this year. Half of all state governors' seats are up for election this year, and among those nine contests, the NAT is strongly favored to win three, and likely to win two more. The election of 2010 could be an opportunity for the NAT to re-gain a majority on the Governors' Board, which would overturn Conservative control for the past nine years.

That's why NATGA and similar organizations are doling out the campaign cash to gubernatorial hopefuls.

"There is just too much at stake here," DeMont said. "This is a battle, when you really break it down that's what it comes down to. And you have to be well-prepared for battle, strategically and monetarily."

So who are the fortunate recipients of NATGA's campaign cash? The list includes first-time candidates, such as San Bartholomew in Biereland, who is challenging first-term incumbent Jenny Duschowitz (CNS), and June Vivarte in POG, who is facing an uphill fight against popular Conservative incumbent and Chairwoman of the Governors' Board Donna Almone.

Bartholomew received almost $1 million from NATGA, while Vivarte recieved $465,000.

Other recipients include Karen DeSalle in Kalnier ($1.4 million) and Todd Pergich in Lial ($500,000).

Incumbent Wellington Governor Pierre Carten also will receive $1.6 million later this month, according to NATGA's financial records.

DeMont, who himself is up for re-election, is also taking in about $640,000, the records show.

Losing out in the money race are candidates who are unlikely to win, including Carova Governor Dan McCrae, who received a measly $140,000 from NATGA for his re-election bid, which has him pitted against Senator Sam Byelle, the former president's older brother.

Candidates in states that have not yet held their primaries, including Monomi and New Portsmouth, have also not received any money yet, although sources within NATGA say the organization is unlikely to invest much in the Monomi race, since Conservatives are likely to take over the governorship in the wake of former Governor Scott King's recall from office.

NATGA's Conservative counterpart, the Conservative Governors Association (CGA), says it has invested similarly in many races nationwide.

Almone, who concurrently holds both the chairmanship of the Governors' Board and heads up the fundraising for her party's campaign effort, told the NPF the organization will invest heavily in close races such as those in Biereland, Kalnier, and Wellington.

Records show Duschowitz, in Biereland, has received $1.4 million from the CGA, while Kalnier Governor Joe Gramma has received $680,000. Craig Thoyer, who is challenging Wellington Governor Pierre Carten, has received $456,000 to date, with more on the way, Almone said.

"These are races where we believe we can win and we will do everything we can to help our candidates there," Almone said.

The governor declined to discuss her own race against Ms. Vivarte, but added that Conservatives are hoping for pick-ups in Carova and Monomi.

Third quarter fundraising reports are not due until the end of August. Candidates must continue reporting fundraising to the Grassadellian Electoral Commission (GEC), though they do not have to make their reports public until the quarter terminates.

Wainwright Lands Big Endorsement

Carova AG is locked in dead-heat Senate race


CAROVA CITY, CAROVA--Attorney General Dan Wainwright (CNS) has landed a big endorsement in his campaign for the Senate.

On Thursday, Wainwright received an endorsement from Carova's senior senator, Sam Byelle, who is vacating his Senate seat to run for governor.

Appearing at a rally in Carova City, Byelle praised Wainwright for his "exceptional leadership in the Attorney General's office," and called him a "Conservative through and through."

"Dan Wainwright is a man of conviction, honor, and integrity. He is a man of principles. And he knows that what Mavocke needs now more than ever is strong, conservative leadership that puts the people first and the politicians second," Byelle told Wainwright's supporters.

Wainwright is locked in a dead-heat race for the Senate against attorney Dan McGregor (N-Bitterman). The 38-year-old McGregor is the son of former Senator Bob McGregor, who also briefly considered running for his old seat but ultimately decided against a return to politics.

A recent poll commissioned by the Carova Statesman newspaper showed Wainwright leading 46% to McGregor's 45%, with 9% undecided. Another poll conducted for Wainwright's campaign showed him leading McGregor 42% to 38%, with a margin of error of plus or minus 4 points.

"One thing is clear: this race is going to be really close, more than likely," Political Science Professor Dr. Mark Emery of Heathfield University in Gladchestershire told GNN. "You've got a Conservative state office holder running against a Nationalist candidate that has never held a statewide office, but has name recognition through his father, and all this happening in a generally conservative state in an overwhelmingly nationalist year. It should be interesting."

In a sit-down interview with the Lorenzi Hill newspaper, Wainwright acknowledged the tough fight ahead of him.

"I know this is going to be a difficult campaign. I knew that when I jumped in, and I know it's not going to be a walk through the park," he said. "But I'm confident that when voters put my record up against Dan McGregor's, and they put my position on the issues up against his, they will put their trust and their confidence in me."

McGregor's campaign also is aware of the close nature of the contest, and told the GBC that McGregor's "numbers are only going to climb" until election day.

"These recent poll numbers prove that the same old Conservative agenda is failing in Carova, and Nationalists like Dan McGregor are going to succeed this December," spokesman Barry Lakamatee said.

Byelle's endorsement of Wainwright is big, however, considering the state's senior senator remains popular statewide. Byelle and his running mate, Dave Emser, are also favored in the gubernatorial race, consistently leading NAT incumbents Gov. Dan McCrae and Lt. Gov. Carson Latzo in the polls.

Following Byelle's glowing endorsement, Wainwright thanked the senator for his "fine stewardship" in the Senate, and hailed him as "the answer to our prayers" for a new governor.

Rep. Jim Calisto (CNS), who is running for the state's other open Senate seat, was not at the rally in Carova City. A spokeswoman said he was campaigning in eastern Carova.

Congressman's Mistress Tells All In Revealing Magazine Interview

Jane Kay says Wilder knew he was risking career, reputation


GRASSADELLIA CITY--The mistress of Rep. Ron Wilder (C-DMG) spared few details of her affair with the Damoign congressman in a tell-all article for the news and culture magazine Reflection.

Jane Kay told Reflection reporter Kristin Griffith that Wilder, a 16-term congressman from the southern suburbs of Grassadellia City, "knew he was risking it all," and that he liked the risk involved.

"He knew there was a huge risk to his career and his family, but he kind of liked that risk," Kay said. "It was more fun that way, more of a high-stakes game."

The 39-year-old real estate broker from Grassadellia City also told the magazine she knew the 62-year-old Wilder was married to his wife of 38 years, Cherrie, but felt "trapped."

"I knew after I started to get to know him that he was married, and I suspected it from the beginning. But, I felt trapped and felt like, 'there is no way I can get out of this relationship safely without causing some pain,'" Kay said.

Wilder also said he didn't care about his wife Cherrie anymore, according to Kay.

"He said, 'you know, [Cherrie] is boring, she's angry, we fight all the time, we don't love each other anymore, and I just don't care about her anymore, I'm moving on with my life," Kay said.

Ms. Kay was equally open about her sex encounters with the congressman, which she described as "exhilarating;" telling reporter Kristin Griffith the couple had sex "at least 15 times" over a period of 18 months.

On one occasion at a posh hotel in Grassadellia City, they got caught in the act, Kay said.

"We were making love and all of a sudden, the door to the hotel room opens and this maid comes in, and she was speaking a different language, and Ron yelled at her and told her to get out and she did. Fortunately she probably didn't know who he was and she couldn't speak English so we were safe for the time being," she said.

The affair became public in April when Kay called the Grassadellia City Times; something she did, she says, because she wanted people to know the truth.

"It was obvious to me that Ron Wilder was a very different man when he was in Mavocke and putting on the congressman show than when he was with me or with his family," Kay said. "In public, he's the 'good guy' type and the nice politician. In private, he's the selfish, greedy, angry man that's hiding behind that suit and tie.

"I saw the way he treated his wife and his kids and me and I thought, 'this has got to stop," Kay said.

Kay originally told the Times Wilder verbally abused her regularly, and tried to choke her on one occasion. She has since backed away from the physical abuse claim, saying it was instead "an aggressive sexual act that was consentual."

Wilder acknowledged the affair with Ms. Kay, but has denied Kay's allegations of verbal and physical abuse, calling them "made up."

"I admit to being unfaithful to my spouse, but I don't admit to being an abuser or a wife hater," Wilder told the Damoign Union-Assembly newspaper.

Three days later, in a written statement, Wilder said:

"I love Cherrie and always have and always will. We are going through a difficult time in our relationship and are trying to find a solution. I have not been the kind of husband and father I should be. My actions have been hurtful and disruptive to my family, friends, and supporters, and I deeply apologize for my behavior, and ask for understanding and grace during this difficult time. I also ask Jane Kay to cease the parade of media interviews she's been engaging in. The rumors, gossip, and outright lies she has been propagating on television and in the print media are only inflaming the pain my family and I are going through. This is a difficult time for our family, and Cherrie and I both ask for our privacy to be respected."

Wilder's lawyers declined to comment on Ms. Kay's latest media appearance in Reflection.

So far, the congressman says he plans to run for re-election, despite calls from within his own party for him to resign or retire.

Rep. Wilder is the second Conservative politician to be rocked by an extramarital affair in recent months. Senator Driscoll Sherber of Biereland admitted in June 2009 to having an affair with a Senate staffer. He is also up for re-election this December. 

Deadly Dust Storms Move Across West Plains

Clean up continues after ravaging dust storms


DEROSA, EAST DESCHIRE--Citizens and businesses in central East Deschire are cleaning up after a round of dust and wind storms battered the region Wednesday.

Reports of uprooted trees, downed power lines, and roofs being blown off homes have been confirmed, according to the National Weather Observancy Center.

WDER-TV, a GNN affiliate, was also reporting a city bus had been tipped over by the strong winds, which reached gusts of 85 mph, according to the NWOC.

The East Deschire Department of Transportation confirmed to the NPF that National Route 15, between Derosa and Freelan, had been shut down due to poor visibility, as had NR-4, between Derosa and Bridgeworth.

One man was killed when a tree fell on his house. An elderly woman was also killed walking down a street when a power line fell.

Captain Chuck Dearsey of the Derosa City Fire Department told the NPF the department extinguished seven fires within the city over a span of two hours. At least another 11 fires resulted in nearby areas due to the intense heat and wind.

Derosa, the state capitol, appeared to have been hit hardest by the violent storms, and Mayor Sara Fraser declared a state of emergency. She also asked Governor Lynn DeMont to declare Derosa and surrounding areas a disaster area, which would free up federal funding for clean-up.

A spokesman for DeMont said the governor will tour the damaged counties this week and then make a final decision.

The storms moved quickly, crossing central East Deschire into western Ceona, where they lost a significant amount of strength upon hitting the Skokie Mountains.

Reports of a tornado about 70 miles south of Derosa have not been confirmed by the NWOC, but are being investigated.

Six Arrested In Deadly Veroche Concert Shooting

Six suspects in custody in gang-related incident


VENDIGO, VEROCHE--Police in Veroche have arrested six men who they say were involved in a deadly shooting at a concert last week in suburban Twin Lakes. The shooting left three people dead and 16 others injured.

Three of the suspects, Tyrell K. Jackson, 21;  Justin Lattonden, 22;  and Luis Opuir; 27, have been charged with 1st degree murder. Two other suspects, Jamahl B. Efferen, 24, and Michael Ellsworth, 20, were charged with 3rd degree assault and 2nd degree aiding a criminal activity. The sixth suspect, a 17-year-old who has not been identified because he is a minor, was charged with 1st degree aiding a criminal activity and felony obstruction of justice.

All suspects face additional assault, public intimidation, and property damage charges as well.

Police are now calling the shooting gang-related, and believe the shooting was an act of revenge against a rival gang member.

The shooting happened around 10:40 pm at the Roadway Rock Hall in the suburb of Vendigo, just west of Twin Lakes. According to police, five men, each armed with semi-automatic hand guns, went to the concert after discovering a rival gang member was in attendance.

Police say the five men went into the concert hall, got into a verbal altercation with the victim and his friends, which spilled into the parking lot outside, when the gunmen opened fire.

Tyrone Wells, 24, was killed immediately by the gunfire, as were two of his friends, 17-year-old Justina Kyree and 21-year-old Shanria Ames.

At least five other spectators, who were leaving the concert at the time of the shooting, were injured by straying gunfire. Three other victims suffered broken bones after being pushed out of the way by the fleeing suspects.

Police say another eight spectators were injured trying to flee the shooting scene.

"This shooting caused panic and chaos for hundreds of people," Lt. Craig Vitteran of the Goldocca County Sheriff's Department told local affiliate WTLK-TV. "A shooting outside a busy concert venue is going to cause panic and stampede-like conditions for spectators."

Mark Caal, owner of the Roadway Rock Hall, told WTLK a shooting has never occurred at his establishment before.

"This is the first time I've ever seen anything like this," Caal said. "And it's scary. Scary for us and for the customers and performers; scary for the community. We want this to stop. And we want these people to know they're not welcome here."

The suspects are expected to face a magistrate on Friday for initial court hearings.

Menuhaeo: Swiss Refusal To Extradite Polanski 'Misguided'

President urges international cooperation in US-Switzerland extradition feud


MAVOCKE--Switzerland's decision to free the Oscar-winning film director Roman Polanski, instead of extraditing him to the United States as US officials requested, was "misguided," President Brenton Menuhaeo said Wednesday.

Polanski, 76, was convicted in 1977 of having unlawful sex with a 13-year-old girl in the US state of California, and has been wanted by US officials ever since he fled the country prior to his sentencing.

He was arrested in September 2009 by Swiss authorities, and placed in house arrest at his posh Alpine chalet in Gstaad, Switzerland pending the outcome of the extradition request by US officials.

But on Monday, Switzerland's Justice Ministry rejected the US extradition request, citing a lack of documentation and American authorities' refusal to turn over sealed documents in the case.

"The reason for the decision lies in the fact that it was not possible to exclude with the necessary certainty a fault in the US extraditionary request," Justice Minister Eveline Widmer told the media.

The Polish-born French citizen Polanski has been freed, Swiss officials confirmed, and is now free to travel outside the country. His Alpine chalet has been desserted, but his location is unknown.

The US was "deeply disappointed" with the decision, according to a senior Justice Department official, but will continue to pursue Polanski despite the setback.

"The United States believes that the rape of a 13-year-old child by an adult is a crime, and we continue to pursue justice in this case," State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley said.

President Menuhaeo, on Wednesday, waded into the diplomatic conflict, which has sparked outrage from the US, but praise from the governments of Poland and France.

Speaking at a press conference Wednesday morning, Menuhaeo called the Swiss decision "misguided," and urged the US and Switzerland to "engage in more cooperation" in future extradition cases.

"A criminal is a criminal, and just because an offender is a revered celebrity does not mean they should be able to avoid justice," Menuhaeo said. "Obviously the Swiss were misguided in making this decision.

"The Swiss...they're dear friends of [Grassadellia], but this was clearly an error in judgement," Menuhaeo said.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Jim McCaren was at a speaking engagement in Ceona and was unavailable for comment. But Deputy Secretary Dawnelle Hunter-Garrett confirmed to the NPF that Grassadellian State Department officials will meet with members of the Swiss ambassadorship at the Swiss Embassy in Mavocke.

"We just want to meet with our Swiss counterparts and sit down and talk with them about what happened," Hunter-Garrett said. "We just want to express our feelings regarding the matter and we want our Swiss friends to know how concerned we are about the situation," she said.

A spokeswoman at the Swiss Embassy in Mavocke declined to comment on the matter.

Monomi State Senate Confirms Avery For Lieutenant Governor

New lieutenant governor youngest in state history


TREETON--The Monomi State Senate voted Wednesday to confirm State Rep. Neil Avery (N-Emory Gardens) as the state's next lieutenant governor.

By a vote of 48-41, the Senate voted to confirm Avery, who was nominated by Governor Erica Kinsley (NAT), who recently assumed the governorship after her predecessor, Scott King Jr., was recalled by the voters in May.

Avery, who was only in his second term in the State House of Representatives, was heralded by some as fresh blood. But others pointed to his inexperience as reason to deny his confirmation.

"We've got the most inexperienced governor in state history running the show, and now she wants us to confirm the most inexperienced lieutenant governor? This is ridiculous," State Sen. Joe Fineman (C-Watker) said on the Senate floor.

But Nationalists contended opposition to Avery's nomination was simply Conservatives playing obstructinist politics, hoping to weaken the already struggling Governor Kinsley.

"It's sad and despicable that my Conservative colleagues are opposing Neil Avery's nomination simply because they're playing politics, trying to obstruct and strike down any appointment or legislation from Governor Kinsley," State Senator Shannon McGrath (N-Edwall) said. "That is just wrong and stupid."

The Governor praised the Senate's confirmation, however, and thanked legislators for putting "people before politics."

"Today, as we saw, some members of the State Senate chose to put politics first. But, fortunately, 48 brave members voted to put people before politics, and I applaud them for doing so," Kinsley said in a press conference outside the Capitol.

Kinsley and Avery are now shifting into campaign mode, as they are seeking to be elected during the December general election. Conservatives have been gearing up for the race for months, with Rep. John Densy of Treeton being the lead contender for governor.

Despite a national revolt against the Conservative Party, the corruption scandal that rocked Governor King and the NAT party infighting, combined with King's recall, are likely to favor the CNS in the December general election.

Kinsley has said she will run for election, but has not formally kicked off her campaign.

Ceona Governor Asks For Federal Review Of Refinery Blast

Governor says blast should be 'investiated to the fullest'


PARKINS, CEONA--Governor Christine Gabler has asked for a federal review of the oil refinery blast that killed 16 people and injured 11 others last week, her office confirmed Thursday.

The governor is asking President Brenton Menuhaeo and Energy Secretary Saul Keppelsbacher for an official federal review of the accident, which will provide in-depth analysis of the accident and what could have been prevented. Investigations are already under way into the cause of the accident, with agencies such as the National Energy Task Force (NETF) and the Bureau of Energy Oversight (BEO) participating in active investigations.

But a federal review, if granted, would allow more agencies to assist, and would provide a more extensive investigation be conducted. Officials from the Ceona State Department of Energy have also been conducting their own investigation.

In a statement, Gabler said she believes a federal review is "most appropriate," and would "provide the level of detail and certainty needed in this inquiry."

"A federal review would provide us with all the answers that are attainable, and would allow state and local, as well as federal, officials to proceed in the appropriate manner," the statement said.

Gabler has also asked for an independent investigation into Winsden Oil Co., who owns the refinery. The company has cooperated so far with investigators, GNN was told.

So far, the origin of the blast has been determined. Investigators believe the blast originated in a partially-filled oil drum on the northwest side of the complex. However, the cause is still unknown.

In a statement, Winsden said it is "cooperating with all investigators involved in the process," and hopes to "find answers to help bring closure to the families and to shed light on how to prevent future accidents."

A spokesman for the Energy Department said that Deputy Energy Secretary Sie Leventhal is on the scene of the blast in the eastern Ceona town of Clydesdale. Secretary Keppelsbacher has been traveling back and forth from Clydesdale to Mavocke, the spokesman said.

Collester has not yet confirmed if a federal review will be granted by the president, however, aides to both the governor and the president believe a review will be granted.

Manchini To Replace Mont As Afghanistan Commander

President's pick receives high praise in Mavocke


MAVOCKE--Just days after Gen. William Mont announced he would step down from his post as commander of forces in Afghanistan, President Brenton Menuhaeo has named Gen. John Manchini as Mont's successor.

On Monday, Mont announced he would step down as Grassadellia's top commander in Afghanistan, citing personal reasons. The general insisted he is stepping down because of personal considerations, not because of any disagreements with the Menuhaeo Administration. Collester also stressed that point.

"General Mont is stepping down for personal reasons, and he is departing on good, affable terms," Collester Press Secretary Adam Kolbert said Tuesday.

"It has been an honor to serve the men and women of Grassadellia's armed services in Afghanistan," Mont, who was appointed by President Dan Byelle in 2006, said. "I feel deeply honored to have served with these brave men and women, and I am so grateful for the opportunity bestowed on me by two leaders, President Byelle and President Menuhaeo."

On Thursday, Menuhaeo praised Mont as a "shining example of Grassadellia's military," and thanked him for service to the country.

"Few have served more faithfully than General William Mont," Menuhaeo said at a good bye ceremony in Mavocke. "It is with sadness I accept his resignation, but also gratitude and happiness, as we thank him for his service and wish him luck in this next chapter in his life's journey."

Moments later, in the Collester's Birch Garden, the president introduced Gen. Mont's successor, four-star General John Manchini, who previously served in Iraq and before that in Bosnia.

"General Manchini matches the strength and character of General Mont," Menuhaeo said. "Two brave men, one's time ending, another's beginning. I am tremendously pleased to announce that General Manchini will be the next commander of Grassadellian forces in Afghanistan."

Secretary of Defense Jack Hastings also hailed Manchini for his "commitment to country," and told the press Manchini is "just the man" to lead Grassadellian forces.

"The Coalition faces a difficult situation in Afghanistan, and General Manchini is just the man to help change the course," Hastings said. "I have the utmost confidence in General Manchini, and the men and women in uniform over in Afghanistan do as well."

Following his lengthy introduction, Manchini thanked the president and secretary for their "words of grace."

"I'd like to thank President Menuhaeo and Secretary Hastings, as well as all the members of Congress that are supporting me and, most importantly, the men and women of the Grassadellian armed forces. Every army needs a leader, but every leader needs an army. And I am so thankful for the support that I have already received."

Manchini still has yet to receive confirmation from the Senate, but the president's selection of Manchini has already received praise from many members of Congress from both parties.

"General Manchini is a man of honor, dignity, and integrity," Senator Jim Frasier (C-DES) told the NPF. "I am pleased this administration has asked for his service."

Senator Newton Jeffs (C-WIK), Chair of the Senate Defense Committee, also spoke highly of Manchini.

"I think the selection of John Manchini is an intelligent one, and it's something that will benefit the effort in Afghanistan," he said.

Jeffs' NAT counterpart, Senator John Yannes of POG, the Ranking Member on the Senate Defense Committee, told the GBC the president "made the right pick" by choosing Manchini to replace Mont.

"John Manchini is a good man, he's a good leader, a good soldier. And the president made a great decision by picking him," Yannes said.

Manchini must now be confirmed by the Senate before officially taking command, but it is almost certain he will be confirmed, as members from both parties seem supportive of his nomination. Hearings will begin next week, and a confirmation vote could come as early as next Friday.

Three-Way Race Takes Shape In Wellington

Independent candidate enters race

DES PLANES, WELLINGTON--The race for the Senate in Wellington just got more complicated.

Businessman Bill Kintelli of Des Planes announced Monday he will make an independent run for the Senate, putting a kink in the plans of both the Nationalist and Conservative parties.

Already in the race are incumbent Paul Leitcher (NAT) and Rep. Sally Haverstein (CNS), who are having a rematch of the 2008 election, in which Leitcher, the former National Assembly Minority Leader, narrowly fended off Haverstein.

Kintelli's entrance into the race complicates things a bit for both sides, as he will likely siphon votes from both candidates in what is expected to be a close race. Kintelli's deep roots in the state, as well as his vast personal fortune, mean he could be very influential in the election.

"I'm running as an Independent because I believe both parties have misled our country and are taking us in the wrong direction," Kintelli said at his announcement at his winery in Des Planes.

Neither the Leitcher or Haverstein campaigns commented on Kintelli's announcement. But an official within the Wellington Nationalist Party acknowledged, privately, that Kintelli could play a major role in the outcome of the race.

"He's got the name recognition, to an extent, and certainly has the money. I think he could be a major player," the official, who did not want to be named, told GNN News.

Wellington's primary is set for August 16.

Bedvelt Recovering As Police Continue Investigating Home Invasion

Actor in serious but stable condition


FEARNDALE, POG--Academy-award winning actor Peter Bedvelt is recovering in the hospital as police continue to investigate the brutal home invasion that left his wife dead and the 71-year-old Bedvelt seriously injured.

Police told the NPF Thursday that Mr. Bedvelt and his wife, 69-year-old Jane, were sleeping at their home in the affluent suburb of Fearndale, southeast of Lansdale, when someone broke into their house around 11:45 pm, tied them up, and brutally attacked them.

A neighbor called 911 after seeing the gate to the couple's driveway open, as well as the front door to the home.

According to police, Jane Bedvelt was tied to a chair and repeatedly stabbed in the back and neck, after being being shot in the head. The shot to her head was non-lethal, however.

Peter Bedvelt was tied to a chair as well, and investigators believe he witnessed his wife's execution, but they are unsure, since Bedvelt has yet to regain consciousness since the attack. He was rushed to Mount Sycamore Medical Center in Lansdale, and was immediately placed in a medically-induced coma. His injuries include a gun shot wound to the shoulder, and a severe head injury. He was placed in a medically-induced coma to alleviate brain swelling, doctors said.

Mrs. Bedvelt was pronounced dead at the scene, police said.

Police are still investigating the unusual crime, which happened in the posh south hills area of Lansdale. According to authorities, some valuables were taken, including a painting, a gun, jewelry, and some artifacts and collectibles in the couple's home. Cash, the couple's credit cards, and other valuables, such as electronics and cars, were not taken, however.

"At this point, we do not know if the motive was theft, or burglary, or if this was a coordinated attack. We simply don't know," Fearndale Police Chief Jim Sullens told the NPF. "We are investigating every possibility at this point.

"It's possible the person or people that did this knew the Bedvelts personally. It's possible it was a random thing. It's possible they saw the nice house and the nice cars and thought, 'that'd be a good place to break in.' But that's unlikely, given that they did not take a lot of valuables inside the home," Sullens said.

Because the attack happened at night, police say witnesses are unlikely to have seen much. Some neighbors said they heard small "popping" noises, but no witnesses have come forward seeing anything at the residence or anything out of the ordinary in the area.

Police have interviewed the Bedvelt's children and other family members, as well as friends and neighbors. They are hoping to interview the actor himself when he is conscious again.

Peter Bedvelt is a house-hold name in Grassadellian acting circles. Appearing in more than 60 films in his 47 year career, he is perhaps best known for his performance in the 1969 film Dance The Night Away, for which he won an Academy Award, and the 1974 film I'm Talking To You, which earned him a Silver Stone Award. In later years, he performed in movies such as The Girl From Lattimore (1987) and Cosmic Rebels (1991). More recently, he appeared in Big Talkers (2002) and the comedy Who's Your Daddy? (2007).

Last year, he was given a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, for which he said he was "deeply honored."

Bedvelt was also inducted last year into the Hall of Fame at the Royal Theatre of Scottsboro in Grassadellia City, and became an executive board member of the Walkean Theatre for Classical Arts in Mavocke.

At Least 16 Dead, 11 Injured In Refinery Blast

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 CLYDESDALE, CEONA--At least 16 people have been killed and 11 injured in a massive blast at an oil refinery in eastern Ceona late Wednesday night.

The blast happened around 10:00 pm at the Winsden Oil Refinery, about 100 miles north of Mavocke and 85 miles east of Madagen. Refinery officials say the blast appears to have occurred in an oil drum near on the northwest side of the refinery property.

Workers were conducting chemical solvency tests near the blast site at the time of the explosion, and the cause of the blast is still unknown. Investigators have descended on the property, trying to determine the origin of the explosion.

At least seven workers were confirmed dead at the scene. Three died en route to hospitals and six others died at the hospital.

The injured were transported via helicopter and ambulance to hospitals in Madagen and Mavocke.

On Thursday, Ceona Governor Christine Gabler called the explosion a "tragedy of massive proportion," and vowed to investigate the cause to prevent a similar tragedy from happening in the future.

"This was an accident that we never hope to hear of, and we want to make sure that something like this never happens again," Gabler said at a press conference at the capitol in Parkins Thursday afternoon.

Local authorities have several roads shut down near the plant. Damage to homes and businesses has been reported as far as two miles away.

In a statement, Winsden Oil Co. called the blast "a sad day in our company's history," and pledged to "investigate fully" the cause of the incident.

The victims' names have not all been made public yet, as officials try to notify next of kin.

Menuhaeo Welcomes Australia's First Female Prime Minister To World Stage

President hails 'historic achievement'


MAVOCKE--President Brenton Menuhaeo has congratulated Australia's first female prime minister, Julia Gillard, on her "historic achievement."

Collester released a statement Thursday afternoon, saying, "President Menuhaeo wishes to congratulate Julia Gillard on her historic achievement as Australia's first female prime minister, and wishes her success in governing one of the world's greatest democracies."

The statement went on to say, "President Menuhaeo is confident Prime Minister Gillard will continue to govern in a way that strengthens the special relationship between Australia and Grassadellia, and brings our two nations closer."

Collester Press Secretary Adam Kolbert said the President phoned Ms. Gillard Thursday morning to wish her congratulations. Collester also spoke of the former Prime Minister, saying "Kevin Rudd led Australia with strong personal conviction and a sense of service to his fellow Australians. President Menuhaeo thanks him for his service and wishes him the best of luck in this new chapter of his career."

Gillard ousted her former boss, Kevin Rudd, in a somewhat bloodless coup, after challenging him for the Australian Labour Party's leadership position and thus the prime ministership. Rudd, knowing he lacked support, decided to not oppose Gillard in a party leadership vote, and instead let his former deputy run unopposed.

In an emotional final speech before the media, Rudd listed his achievements, which included economic strength admist the global recession, work on infrastructure, eliminating the controversial "Work Choices" program, education, healthcare and a reconciliation and apology to the "stolen generations" of indigenous Australians.

"I was elected by the Australian people as prime minister of this country to bring back a fair go for all Australians and I have given my absolute best to do that, I've given it my absolute all," Rudd said in his final address.

Mr. Rudd was in power for just two and a half years, after his triumphant victory of former Prime Minister John Howard ended almost 12 years of the center-right Liberal Party's hold on power. His fall from office is the first time a first term prime minister has been removed from office.

Following Rudd's last speech, his successor, Gillard, made her first appearance in the House of Representatives, with Rudd sitting on the backbench in silence.

Gillard acknowledged her party's crisis of leadership, saying, "I accept that the government has lost track. We will get back on track. I have taken control for precisely that purpose."

Among her immediate priorities are opening up negotiations with the country's mining industry, which had been alienated by Rudd over new proposed restrictions and taxes. Gillard also said she will focus on energy and the economy.

The new prime minister will also be charged with declaring the country's next general election, which will happen "in coming months," though she did not specify exactly when.  Polls show the opposition Liberal Party and National Party coalition with the edge.