DeSalle plays defense in first debate

LAMBERTH, Kalnier -- Endangered Gov. Karen DeSalle found herself playing defense in her first televised debate with Conservative opponent, businessman Tony Ritonio.

The NAT incumbent remains deadlocked in the polls with Ritonio, who has a real chance of winning the governorship in a liberal-leaning state.

During the debate, which was sponsored by the Association of Kalnier Businesses, the two candidates sparred mainly over the economy and fiscal policy.

Ritonio went on the attack early, criticizing Karen DeSalle for a "pathetic" business climate and a failed economic recovery.

"What have you been doing for the past four years, governor?" Ritonio asked DeSalle. "Because it doesn't look like you've been doing anything to fix the economy in this state. We still have burdensome taxes. We still have government bureaucracy and red tape. We're lagging behind Carova in job creation and growth. Kalnierans are hurting financially; our economy is struggling. And Governor DeSalle has been missing in action," said Ritonio.

Appearing highly energized and ready for a fight, Ritonio continued his criticism, hitting the governor on taxes and spending.

"Under Gov. DeSalle, spending has increased significantly, taxes have increased on three-quarters of Kalnierans, but what do we have to show for it? Is our economy back on track? Is government working efficiently and working for the people? I think most Kalnierans would agree that these higher taxes and more spending by Gov. DeSalle has not bought us much except more debt and more problems," said Ritonio.

DeSalle responded, but appeared to be caught off-guard by her challenger's strong criticisms.

At one point, after a lengthy monologue from Ritonio, DeSalle paused for almost 15 seconds, and then said, "I'm not even sure where to begin with all that."

She acknowledged many Kalnierans are struggling in the recession-hit economy.

But the governor insisted the state's economy is improving, and she pointed to a growing population and a recent construction boom as proof.

She also brought up job growth in the tech and pharmaceutical sectors in the greater Lamberth area.

"I'm not sure what Mr. Ritonio means when he says the economy isn't improving. All the indicators show Kalnier's economy is improving. Our housing market is improving, construction has been stronger this year than any year since before the recession. Our population is increasing, people are moving here because they see opportunity. There are so many opportunities in our beautiful state."

DeSalle also hit back about Kalnier's economic recovery in comparison to other states.

Recent numbers released by the federal Department of Labor indicate Carova has had the strongest economic recovery of the northeastern states, but Kalnier's recovery has been more successful than neighboring Lial and Trinton.

On the budget, the governor defended increased spending, but largely dismissed criticism of her tax increases.

"Yes we did increase spending on education, veterans and healthcare. Because I refuse to gut [spending for] these vital programs, which is exactly what Mr. Ritonio will do as governor," said DeSalle.

The governor seemed to get back into the groove in the final minutes of the debate, slamming Ritonio for his connections to big business.

"What Mr. Ritonio won't tell you is that all these tax cuts that he's promising are going to go to big corporations and the top 10% of earners. These tax breaks will not go to the average Kalnieran, to the families, the single mom, the college students working two or three jobs to make ends meet. Mr. Ritonio's tax policy favors the rich," said DeSalle.

Both candidates pledged to nurture small businesses and give aid to families.

Ritonio pledged to cut spending by 8% in his first 100 days in office. He also pledged to cut the governor's salary by 15%.

DeSalle declined to make the same pledges.

Both voiced concern over the level of out-of-state spending in the contentious race, though neither made any specific pledges to stem the flow of outside cash into the race.

A University of Kalnier poll released earlier this week found Karen DeSalle slightly edging Tony Ritiono in a head-to-head match up, 51% to 49%, well within the margin of error.

Most political analysts rate Kalnier's gubernatorial race as a "toss-up."

Halitz loses hand recount, will run as Independent

DEROSA, East Deschire -- Conservative Sen. Denna Halitz has lost a hand recount in her Senate primary race.

East Deschire Secretary of State Jenny Sinderman today certified the results of the recount, which was conducted at the request of Halitz, after she lost an earlier machine recount to challenger Nancy Lindselli.

The final tally from the hand recount - which will be the official vote tally - has Lindselli winning with 50.44% or 186,991, and Halitz ending with 49.56% or 183,714.

Sinderman certified the results today, and reiterated her confidence in the outcome of the hand recount.

"I'm confident the final count from the hand recount is accurate," said Sinderman.

The hand recount was requested by Halitz, who initially was declared the winner a week after primary election day, drawing 50.5% to Nancy Lindselli's 49.5%.

After the original count, Lindselli, a former senator, requested and paid for a machine recount, which found her to be the winner, by a margin of 50.3% to 49.7%.

A desperate Halitz then requested - and also paid for - a more in-depth hand recount, which is considered a more accurate method of counting than a machine.

Last week, Lindselli was found to be the winner of the hand recount, having gained a small amount of votes.

Denna Halitz spent the last week considering her options - either concede and accept defeat, or launch an uphill Independent campaign for the Senate.

Today, the incumbent, who is seeking a second term, announced she will run as an Independent in the fall general election.

"Now is not the time for surrender. I have a vision for this state, for this country, and I intend to show the people of East Deschire over the next three months why they should send me back to the Senate, and why my opponent's partisanship and divisive ideological warfare is not right for East Deschire," said Halitz, referring to Lindselli's hard-hitting political style.

During her news conference, Halitz did not mention her NAT opponent, Assemblywoman Donna Rae Cobb (who represents the Hansboro-based seat of Forkwich), by name.

"East Deschireans deserve to have a choice in this election, and the choices couldn't be more clear. On the one side, we have a radical, bitter partisan, whose only goal is to go to Mavocke and give fiery speeches, trash-talk President Menuhaeo and oppose every bill from the Nationalists out of spite.

"On the other side, we have the exact opposite. We have someone who will rubber stamp everything President Menuhaeo and the Nationalists propose," said Halitz, referring to Cobb.

"And now I'm giving the voters a third choice. A proven conservative who loves East Deschire and will vote for what's right for East Deschire. I won't be an automatic 'no' vote and I won't be an automatic 'yes' vote. I won't obstruct the president, but I won't rubber stamp everything he wants either. I will vote for what's right for this state. I will oppose President Menuhaeo when he's wrong, and I'll back him up when he's right. But I won't demonize him and call him names and vote no just to be a thorn in his side. That's not the type behavior we need in a senator. We need someone who's compassionate, thoughtful, objective, professional, respectful to their colleagues, open-minded, and someone who's willing to partner with the other side if it means getting things done," said Halitz.

She continued: "I am here today to announce that I will continue my campaign for the Senate as an Independent. I accept the results of the multiple vote counts, and I accept that I have lost the nomination of the Conservative party. But I do not believe I have lost the support of Conservatives. I still have a vision, I still have a strategy to fight for East Deschire, and I believe now is the time to rise to the challenge rather than back down and let partisan politics win.

"This won't be an easy campaign. It will be very difficult. I will have two opponents to focus on, and neither one of them is overly fond of me. But I will spend these next few months showing the people of East Deschire why they should send me back to Mavocke. And I intend to make my case to the voters."

Halitz's Independent bid will not be easy. Third party candidates have a mixed record of winning state-wide elections, although there have been recent exceptions.

Sen. Niles Gilcrest lost his primary race in 2010 to a more conservative opponent, but continued in the campaign as an Independent and won re-election in a three-way race.

Also in 2010, George Reedsworth, a moderate Conservative assemblyman from Trinton, lost his Senate primary race to a more socially conservative challenger, but went one to win the general election as an Independent.

Still, Sen. Michael Kreighorn (N-Biereland) lost his three-way race after losing the NAT nomination in 2010.

And in 2008, Carova Sen. Lee Schefsky (C) ran as an Independent but ultimately lost his bid for re-election.

Nonetheless, Halitz is optimistic about her chances.

"I think the voters will choose the best candidate, and I believe that candidate is me," she told a local radio DJ in Doylestown.

Nancy Lindselli also spoke with the media Thursday, saying she's "elated" her earlier recount victory was upheld in the hand recount.

"The voters have spoken. They chose me as the Conservative nominee, and I am honored to be nominated for the Grassadellian Federal Senate. I'm very pleased that both the machine recount and the hand recount came out in my favor. I'm somewhat disappointed that Denna Halitz has chosen to continue her campaign against the voters' wishes. She lost the election but is continuing on, and I'm disappointed that Denna didn't respect the will of the voters. But she has made her choice, and now we move on to the general election, and I look forward to the campaign. The wind is in the sails and we sail on full-steam ahead," said a confident Lindselli.

"The winds of change are in the air," she added.

Donna Rae Cobb (N), who is less known than her two conservative opponents and has so far stayed out of the CNS civil war, declined to comment on the intra-party battle between Halitz and Lindselli.

In a statement to the media, Cobb simply congratulated Lindselli on winning the CNS nomination, and congratulated Halitz on her Independent bid.

"I look forward to a very lively and spirited campaign," said Cobb.

Under East Deschire law, a candidate must receive 50% of the vote plus 1 to be declared the winner. If no candidate wins 50% plus 1 in the general election, a run-off election between the top two candidates will take place.

In order for the beleaguered Halitz to win, she will have to win more votes than Nancy Lindselli while also holding Donna Rae Cobb (N) under 50% of the vote. Then she will have to win a run-off election.

The same holds true for Lindselli, who must also win more votes than Denna Halitz and at the same time, keep Cobb from winning a majority of the votes, and then turn around and win a run-off election.

The election now strongly favors Cobb, as her two conservative opponents will likely split the conservative vote.

Though East Deschire is overall conservative-leaning, voters have elected several centrist Nationalists to state-wide office in recent years, including Gov. Lynn DeMont, Attorney General Rocky Morin, and Sens. Allison Sweeten and Portia McLendon.

Cobb, also a centrist, is hoping to position herself as a stable and likable alternative to her two conservative challengers.

Lindselli is hoping to ride an anti-Mavocke, anti-Menuhaeo, anti-NAT wave back to Mavocke.

Meanwhile, Lindselli will likely try to appeal to moderate Conservatives and Independents, and will continue to tout her accomplishments and her record as someone who "gets things done" for the Harvest State.

What's unclear is which, if either, of the candidates the CNS Senate Campaign Committee (CSCC) will back with support and fundraising.

Since Halitz lost the CNS nomination, it's doubtful she will retain the CSCC's support.

However, Lindselli defied Senate Minority Leader Jay Burns and other top CNS senators when she announced her primary challenge to Halitz.

Burns and other prominent party officials had privately and publicly asked Lindselli not to run against Halitz for the sake of party unity.

That decision may cost Lindselli the backing of the CSCC, which is expected to announce its general election strategy for East Deschire seat in the coming days.

12-year-old boy shot, killed by police in suburban Berivian

ARCH-HAMPTON, Deschire -- An adolescent boy is dead after an officer-involved shooting near Berivian.

The Berivian Emblem Herald first broke the story late Thursday afternoon, reporting an adolescent male had been shot by an officer in the city of Arch-Hampton, directly across the Dalcrumb River from Berivian on the river's eastern shore.

Arch-Hampton Police confirmed 12-year-old Michael Arman was shot by an AHPD officer in the Railyards industrial neighborhood at 4:37 pm western time.

As often the case with fast-moving stories, there was confusion surrounding the details of the incident.

Some media outlets initially reported the victim was an unarmed Black male, but police say Arman was armed with a handgun, and the Anleigh County Coroner confirmed Arman was Hispanic and Caucasian, not Black.

What led to the shooting is still unclear. Arch-Hampton Police Chief Chuck Musgrove told local media an officer was on routine patrol in the Railyards industrial area when he saw a young man smashing empty beer bottles on railroad tracks.

The officer, who has not yet been identified, reportedly stopped his vehicle and walked up to Arman to inquire why he was smashing bottles.

What happened after that is unknown.

The officer in question told his superior commanders Arman drew a gun and attempted to fire at the officer but the gun malfunctioned. The officer then shot the suspect three times in the chest and leg.

Police say two GrassWest rail workers, who were more than 100 yards away at the time, are the only known eye-witnesses.

"This happened in a very industrial area with a lot of machinery and empty warehouses around, and not very many people. So we don't believe there were very many people who saw what happened, but obviously, any witnesses who saw this even transpire, we would very much like to speak with them," said Musgrove.

"Based on what we know now, [the shooting] happened very quickly. There was not much time to think, and there was not much communication between the officer and the suspect before shots were fired," added Musgrove."

Michael Arman was rushed to a local hospital but died upon arrival.

The Anleigh County Sheriff's Department has now taken over the investigation.

Investigation protocol requires a neighboring law enforcement agency to investigate in such situations.

The Anleigh County Coroner's Office will conduct an autopsy to determine the cause of death.

Late Thursday evening, a group of family and friends created a memorial of flowers, balloons, and stuffed animals at the sight of the shooting in memory of Michael Arman, who was a student at Timothy Watkins Junior High School just a few miles away.

Friday night, a larger candle-light vigil was held near the scene to honor Arman. More than 300 people attended.

Friends of the Arman family are outraged at what they call an act of police brutality.

"Michael was just a kid. A sweet kid. He would never hurt anyone. He had respect for authority. This was police brutality plain and simple," Mike Fain, a friend of the Arman family, told WBER-TV.

Outrage over the shooting death has been pervasive in Arch-Hampton, where 57% of the city's population are minorities.

An eruption of activity exploded on Facebook and Twitter, as hundreds and then thousands of people expressed anger at what many consider an act of excessive force.

Back at the scene, Mike Fain set up a camp of sorts across the street from the shooting site, because he fears the police will alter the crime scene or manipulate evidence to justify the shooting.

"You can't trust these guys. They're liars and manipulators. They will do whatever it takes to defend their own, even when they are completely in the wrong," said Fain.

Police said they would allow Fain and his supporters - which numbered about 50 people yesterday and almost 100 people Friday - to assemble and protest across the street, as long as they remain peaceful, stay within the park boundaries, and do not interfere with traffic or the investigation across the street.

Parks in the city close at dusk, and police emphasized that the crowd should disburse at dusk.

Authorities have been monitoring the situation, which they fear could grow into a mass-protest, similar to the rioting and widespread looting that occurred earlier this week in Ferguson, Missouri in the United States over the shooting death of a Black teenager by a white police officer.

That shooting has rocketed Ferguson, a normally quiet suburb of St. Louis, to the forefront of international headlines in recent days, with Missouri's governor calling in the National Guard to help quell the violence, and Barack Obama's Attorney General Eric Holder visiting to reassure a thorough and fair investigation.

So far, there has been no looting or rioting at the scene of Michael Arman's death. But local law enforcement are keeping an eye on the situation as it develops.

"We want people to be able to exercise their right to freedom of speech and protest. They have that right, it's guaranteed in the Constitution. But we also want the investigators to have easy and safe access to the crime scene, so they can do their very crucial work in a safe environment without interruption, interference or threats of violence," said Anleigh County Sheriff Paul Wymer.

Deschire Gov. Jan Beamer was also briefed on the shooting Thursday evening. A spokesman from her office told the Emblem Herald the governor is receiving regular updates on the unfolding situation, and may ask the Deschire State Police Coroner's Office to conduct a second autopsy.

"It's always sad anytime there is an officer-involved shooting. It's sad for the victim, it's sad for the officer involved, and it's sad for friends and family and the community. It's very stressful, a very emotional situation, and we want feelings to be respected but we also want the integrity of the investigation upheld, and what we absolutely do not want is violence," Zach Kramer, spokesman for Gov. Beamer's office, said in an email.

Bartholomew will face Ben Jordan in Biereland governor race

BROOKINGS, Biereland -- As expected, Biereland Attorney General Ben Jordan easily won the Conservative nomination for governor in a tense three-way race.

Biereland's secretary of state reported Jordan winning with just 41% of the vote. Brookings Mayor Rich DeFrancesco trailed with 34% and former Sen. Bob Kozzy came in a distant third with 24%.

According to Biereland law, a candidate must receive at least 45% of the popular vote in a general election to win. But in a primary election, whichever candidate wins the most vote - even if they receive less than 45% - wins the nomination.

Jordan was expected to win the primary competition, although in recent weeks the race had been heating up following a highly-publicized war of words between Jordan and his most out-spoken rival, Bob Kozzy.

The very public back-and-forth between Jordan and Kozzy only increased tension between the two. And despite his best attempt, Rich DeFrancesco, who entered the race late, was unable to break into first place while his opponents' bickered.

Much of the disagreement between the two men came down to policy differences. Jordan, who has broad appeal among party establishment and conservative base voters, has focused his campaign on crime and public safety.

Meanwhile, Kozzy, who is fiscally conservative but socially moderate and has an admittedly libertarian bent, has focused his campaign on taxes, jobs and fighting corruption.

The former senator has been steadfast in his criticism of Jordan for being too cozy with party establishment, and lacking accountability.

Jordan has framed Kozzy as a quirky, eccentric left-wing liberal masquerading as a Conservative.

DeFrancesco, for his part, sought to portray himself as a compromise candidate - more conservative than Kozzy to appease the party base, but not as staunchly conservative and strong-headed as Ben Jordan.

DeFrancesco's plan looked good on paper, but failed to produce a win.

The Jordan campaign confirmed their candidate received a congratulatory call from Rich DeFrancesco. They could not confirm if they received a similar call from Bob Kozzy.

At his victory speech in Brantley, an eastern Brookings suburb, Ben Jordan wasted no time attacking his NAT opponent, Gov. San Bartholomew.

"This is the first step on the road to victory. Come this fall, we will take back Biereland. We will show San Bartholomew the door. And we will overturn all of his failed policies, from timber restrictions to taking away our gun rights, to same-sex marriage and marijuana legalization, and we'll overturn all of his devastating, burdensome tax hikes and red tape too," said a laughing, determined Jordan.

Neither same-sex marriage or marijuana have been legalized in Biereland, but a measure will be on the ballot this year seeking to legalize marijuana. And a same-sex marriage measure is being drafted for the 2016 elections, if it's not legalized before then by the state's legislature.

The Bartholomew campaign released a short, to-the-point statement:

"Bierelanders will have a very clear choice this fall when they go to the polls. They can elect a governor who believes in the common good and fighting for all Bierelanders, or they can elect a governor who panders to an ultra-conservative, right-wing electorate and wishes to impose his radical views on all our citizens. It's an obvious choice."

Polls have shown a close race between Bartholomew and Jordan heading into the fall election. Biereland is rated a "toss-up" state by most political analysts.

Pyatt wins East Deschire gubernatorial runoff election

RIDGEVIEW, East Deschire -- A conservative congressman from western East Deschire will be the CNS nominee for governor, after winning a close runoff election.

Assemblyman Sam Pyatt, who represents the Ridgeview-area electorate of Pittsgol in the panhandle region, defeated Christenkerr Mayor Phil Qwenberry in an upset victory that surprised party officials and pundits alike.

With 100% of precincts reporting, Pyatt - who has strong conservative credentials but also has close ties to the party establishment - led 52.05% to 47.95%, or 117,173 votes to 107,922 for Qwenberry, who is more moderate but also has connections with party leadership.

Both candidates were seen by party leaders as an acceptable nominee to challenge incumbent Gov. Lynn DeMont (N), who is seeking a third but second four-year term.

Qwenberry gave a concession speech in his hometown of Christenkerr at 11:00 pm.

A mayor and longtime political and business figure in the Vandershutes region of the state, Qwenberry thanked his supporters, congratulated his opponent, but did not pledge to support Pyatt in the general election.

Across the state, 350 miles northwest of Christenkerr, Pyatt celebrated his win at a hotel in downtown Ridgeview.

Also thanking his opponent, Pyatt asked for unity as the general election nears.

"At the end of the day, we're all Conservatives, and we all want to advance the vision we have for this state," said Pyatt.

His narrow victory came as a surprise to most, as he trailed Qwenberry in polls following the June 28 primary election.

In the primary, Qwenberry won a plurality of the vote, with 35.69%.

Pyatt finished second with 29.47%, followed by former Sen. Roger Gzarno (21.51%) and Iraq War veteran Tim Hutsell (13.33%).

Despite a high turn out of more than 374,000 CNS voters, no candidate won the necessary 40% of the vote as required by East Deschire law, triggering an automatic runoff election between the two top candidates.

Most polls up until this week showed Pyatt trailing Qwenberry anywhere from 4 to 12 points.

Many questioned Pyatt's ability to win, being tied to Mavocke as an assemblyman during a time when Congress' approval ratings are dismal.

Coming from the western side of the state, which is significantly less populated than the eastern side, was also seen as an obstacle for the underdog.

Pyatt's opponents tried to tie him to Mavocke in an effort to highlight his connection to Congressional gridlock and voters distrust of the bodies.

But the 6-term assemblyman fought back, voicing his staunch opposition to President Brenton Menuhaeo and Assembly Nationalists, and listing his accomplishments in Mavocke - including securing funding for jobs training, nuclear research, and the newly-constructed Ducott Medical Center in Ridgeview.

Pyatt also touted bills he wrote, which include laws that preserve gun and property rights and expand timber production in the timber-rich panhandle.

While he won the runoff election by almost 10,000 votes, Pyatt had a mediocre showing in his native territory, winning only three of the 11 counties that make up the panhandle region.

However, he did win in the two most populated counties of the panhandle, Seskennan County and neighboring Yarwood County.

Elsewhere across the state, Pyatt won mostly rural counties, though he did receive a sizable victory in Selkford County, the state's most populous. He also won Lewaina County (home to the state capital Derosa), and nearby Darrich County, the fourth-most populous county in the state.

Qwenberry easily won Matthieson County, which encompasses the Doylestown-Bridgeworth metro area, the second-largest in the state. He also captured Mardeau County, which includes the Dillingham-Dunham metro area, by almost 20 points.

The southeastern corner of the state went mostly for Phil Qwenberry, with 11 counties in the 16-county region backing the Christenkerr mayor.

Exit polls show the race was less about regional differences and more about age. Older voters supported Pyatt by a large margin, younger and middle-aged voters favored Qwenberry.

Throughout the campaign, both candidates criticized Gov. Lynn DeMont for being distracted from his duties as governor with national ambitions. They specifically cited his role as the chairman of the Nationalist Governors Association (NATGA), a position which involves a lot of out-of-state travel for party fundraisers and functions.

Pyatt preached fiscal restraint and limiting federal intrusion in state affairs while on the campaign trail, while Qwenberry campaigned heavily on a lower taxes and pro-business platform, something that won him strong support from younger families and entrepreneurs.

But that support from younger voters was not enough to off-set Pyatt's advantage with older voters, who make up a disproportionately large percentage of the CNS primary electorate.

The Conservative Governors Association (CGA) is expected to announce Monday that it will throw its support behind Pyatt. It's unclear just how much money and resources the national party is willing to devote to the general election.

Recent polls have shown Gov. Lynn DeMont leading Pyatt in a head-to-head match up, but most polls have also shown Pyatt within striking distance.

The DeMont campaign may have gotten its dream candidate in Pyatt, as they can now tie the Conservative assemblyman to the government dysfunction in Mavocke.

Supporters of Pyatt say voters will look past his connection to Mavocke because his conservative voting record is in line with East Deschire's conservative electoral tilt.

Dr. Kerry Rudgley, chair of the Edinough School of Government at Dulkalow University, currently rates the 2014 East Deschire gubernatorial race as "Leans NAT." The race was previously rated "NAT Favored."

Halitz holds off Lindselli in nail-biter primary, recount possible

CHRISTENKERR, East Deschire -- After millions of dollars and many troubling polls, incumbent Conservative Sen. Denna Halitz has held on to win the CNS primary, fending off an insurgent opponent, former Sen. Nancy Lindselli.

With 98% of precincts reporting, Halitz was leading 50.5% to 49.3%.

East Deschire Secretary of State Jenny Sinderman cautioned the numbers are unofficial, but confirmed there were only about 2,000 votes left to count statewide. Halitz was leading by more than 4,000 votes as of last count, meaning she will be declared the winner, barring a court challenge or a recount.

At her victory rally at the Bryant Center in Christenkerr, Halitz said she was cautiously optimistic she would be declared the winner.

"I think when the dust settles, we will come out on top," she said.

Up in Hansboro at her election night party, Lindselli refused to concede and said her staff was monitoring the results for irregularities. She declined to say if she would seek legal action or ask for a recount.

"The integrity of this election needs to be upheld no matter the cost," she told reporters outside the Manhattan Center, where her celebration was held.

East Deschire election law stipulates that if the margin of victory is one half of one percent - or 0.05% - or less, an automatic recount will take place.

The Lindselli campaign could also ask for a machine recount or a hand recount, but would have to pay upfront for either.

If the outcome changes and Lindselli emerges the winner upon the recount, the cost of the recount would be refunded to the candidate.

It's unclear what, if any, action the Lindselli campaign will take.

After narrowly losing her seat to Nationalist Allison Sweeten during the 2012 election, Lindselli quickly set her sights on a primary challenge to Halitz, who is a celebrated moderate within the party.

After months of speculation and suspense, Lindselli finally filed the necessary paperwork earlier this spring to challenge Halitz.

The race got off to an ugly start, with Lindselli attacking Halitz for being too moderate, neglecting her constituents by not spending enough time back home in East Deschire, and being "an accessory to the liberal takeover of this country."

Halitz defended her record in an attempt to rebuff her opponent's attacks.

The incumbent did, however, admit that she had not spent enough time on East Deschire soil and was spending too much time in Mavocke because of the political engagements and Senate duties.

"I should be back home more, and I do sincerely apologize for getting too wrapped up in my Senate duties," said Halitz. "My primary responsibility, as a representative of the people of East Deschire, is to engage with them, dialogue with them and understand their needs and concerns so I can better serve them. And to do that, I need to spend more time on the ground here at home."

The unfriendly fight continued, with Halitz likening Lindselli's attacks to "friendly fire" and a "character assassination."

Lindselli continued her criticisms, calling out Halitz for not opposing tax increases, not defending gun rights, and not opposing the federal government enough.

"If you're going to vote like a Nationalist, then you might as well call yourself one. Don't pose as something you're not," Lindselli said during a debate at the Astle Center in Hansboro last month.

The two rivals turned up the intensity back in March when they crossed paths at the annual Spring Skeet Shoot-out in the small town of Earl in rural Rocky Hills County, just north of Ridgeview.

Lindselli appeared more comfortable with a gun and seemed right at home among the gun-slingers, while Halitz seemed, to many, to only be at the event to strengthen her image as pro-gun.

"Denna Halitz was definitely out of her element at the shoot-out. That really cemented Nancy Lindselli as the more gun supportive candidate," said one CNS source, who asked not to be identified because of party media rules.

In the last few weeks of the race, Halitz crisscrossed the state, attacking the Brenton Menuhaeo administration and Nationalists in Congress for what she called their out-of-control spending, growing welfare rolls, and encroachment on state sovereignty.

"I believe this administration is so out of touch with the average East Deschirean and the average Grassadellian. President Menuhaeo just fundamentally does not understand rural issues and the issues facing hard-working, middle class citizens, particularly in western states like East Deschire," said Halitz in a televised debate in Doylestown in May.

Halitz also sought to portray her frequent bipartisanship as a strength, not a weakness.

"I don't believe the people of East Deschire sent me to Mavocke to just vote 'no' on everything President Menuhaeo and the Nationalists propose. They sent me to Mavocke to get things done. To find common ground and pass legislation, to work with other senators to get bills through, and to get results for our state and to stand up for our rights. I have done that from day one.

"I have stood up for our civil liberties. I have stood up for our military families and our veterans. I have stood up for our farmers and agriculture industry, which is so vital to our state. I have stood up for our children and our college students and our seniors. But if you're asking why I have not opposed every single bill that has been touched by a Nationalist, the answer is because that's stupid and that's wrong. I support a conservative agenda, but I don't support just voting 'no' because I don't like the president or the other side," said Halitz.

For her part, Lindselli - whose campaign launch was delayed after she was injured in an auto accident and subsequently hospitalized back in January - portrayed Halitz as out of touch and too cozy with Nationalists.

"Denna has acted as a moderate since she got into office. She doesn't support a conservative agenda. She supports a moderate agenda. But this is East Deschire. We're a conservative state. If you want to be a moderate, then you should represent a state like New Portsmouth or Damoign. If you're going to support the president's agenda, then you should either become a member of his party or get a job working for him in Collester. But don't use your position as a representative of East Deschire as a way to advance an agenda that your constituents don't support," said Lindselli during a radio interview on June 8.

Despite the heated tone of the debate, the candidates do agree on many issues. Both generally support a strong military and favor lower taxes. Both have been strongly supportive of East Deschire's agricultural sector, and both have been critical of Nationalists for ramming their agenda through the Senate with little participation or input from the minority Conservative Party.

In the end, it came down to tone. Lindselli's more combative tone was welcomed by more hard-line voters who welcomed her tough stance against the president and Nationalists. But her no-nonsense style was a turn-off for party moderates.

"Nancy Lindselli is more conservative, which favored her in a primary election. But she's also feisty and a bit militant, and that can be a good thing or a bad thing," said Dr. Tim Thomas of East Deschire State University in Clawfield. "I think Denna Halitz won voters over, ultimately, with her nice, gentle tone compared to Lindselli's gruff, almost abrasive tone."

The differences between the two were not just political, but also generational, as Lindselli is 76 years old compared to the much younger Halitz, 44.

Older voters, who trend more conservative, were strongly in favor of Lindselli, while younger and middle-aged voters favored Halitz.

Regional differences also came into play, with Lindselli finding strong support in the northeastern part of the state, where she hails from.

Halitz swept the southeastern third of the state, which encompasses her native Christenkerr.

The candidates almost evenly split the panhandle region.

Linselli won a majority in the three most populous counties - Selkford, Matthieson and Mardeau.

Halitz took Lewaina County - home to the state capital Derosa - and also won Darrich County, which includes the twin cities of Port Sehela and Poole.

Both women won their home counties, with Halitz taking almost 80% of the vote in her native Riona County and Lindselli receiving a less impressive but respectable 61% in Begoran County.

Turnout was high for a non-presidential election year, according to Secretary Sinderman. She estimated turnout in the CNS primary to be about 55% of eligible registered CNS voters, or roughly 370,000 voters.

Biereland gubernatorial candidates trade insults

GERBANNON, Biereland - They're supposed to be setting their sights on their Nationalist opponent. But instead, Conservative gubernatorial candidates Ben Jordan and Bob Kozzy (pronounced "Cause-ee") are aiming their ammunition at each other.

Jordan - the state's attorney general - and Kozzy - a former senator - are running for the CNS nomination for governor. They are joined by Brookings Mayor Rich DeFrancesco, who has largely stayed out of the limelight.

The winner of the three-way primary will take on Nationalist Gov. San Bartholomew, who is seeking a second term.

It's unclear if it's a good thing or bad thing, but DeFrancesco has largely stayed out of the fray, while Jordan (who is the favored candidate), and Kozzy duke it out in a bruising primary race.

And this weekend, the insults were flying through the air.

Appearing together at a candidate forum in Gerbannon in the state's north-central region, Jordan called Kozzy a "kook" for his anti-government conspiracy theories and his belief in UFOs.

Kozzy returned the favor by labeling Jordan "an arrogant windbag," and saying Jordan panders to the far right with gimmicks and "political theatre."

"(Ben Jordan) excites the base of the party by filing frivolous lawsuits against the federal government. And he gives rousing speeches that denounce the president or the governor with almost hate-like passion. And why does he do these things? Because he knows it will energize the base and get them excited for his campaign. But it's merely pandering. It's not genuine. He knows these lawsuits will go nowhere. He knows he shouldn't be speaking ill of the governor or the president in a hateful manner. But he does it anyway for political gain and it's reprehensible."

Kozzy continued, "If all you want is a dramatic monologue or an Oscar-worthy performance, then vote for Ben Jordan. But if you want real change that will restore this state and bring it back from the precipice of disaster, vote for me. Because that's what I plan to do as governor."

Jordan then jabbed Kozzy with a tongue-in-cheek UFO joke.

"Tell me, Bob, will you nominate any extra-terrestrials to serve in your cabinet if you're elected?"

The laughter and applause from some of the crowd did not hide the animosity between the two strikingly different candidates.

Meanwhile, back in Brookings, Mayor Rich DeFrancesco also jumped into the ring with his own take on the Jordan-Kozzy feud.

"While Ben Jordan and Bob Kozzy were in Gerbannon debating the possibility of alternative life forms, Rich DeFrancesco spent the weekend meeting with voters in Brookings - talking about issues that matter to people: the economy, jobs, roads, infrastructure, health care, education, taxes. These are the issues Bierelanders care about."

San Bartholomew was asked about the infighting among his Conservative opponents. He joked with reporters that he would be calling an "inter-planetary conference" and would invite Jordan and Kozzy to appear.

Sen. Chambers criticizes administration over 'power vacuum' at Foreign Affairs Office

FAIRFIELD, South Ceona - A top NAT senator is taking the Menuhaeo administration to task for what he perceives to be a "power vacuum" at the office of Foreign Affairs.

Appearing on the GBC's Landscape with Jim Danderfield, centrist Nationalist Sen. Vic Chambers of South Ceona said the president is taking too long to name a nominee for Secretary of Foreign Affairs.

Currently, Deputy Secretary Dawnelle Hunter-Garrett is serving in an interim role, until the president announces his nominee.

Hunter-Garrett assumed in the interim position after former Secretary Jim McCaren stepped down back in February.

"I respect the president and I think he's a good man. And I respect Deputy Secretary Hunter-Garrett. But I'm concerned that our country has gone several months now without a formal leader at the Office of Foreign Affairs. It gives the appearance of a power vacuum at the Foreign Affairs Office and that weakens our image and our influence," said Chambers.

Hunter-Garrett is doing a "fine job" for the time-being, Chambers said. But he would prefer the president nominate a candidate with more experience in diplomacy.

"The Deputy Secretary is very knowledgeable, but we really need someone who has experience as a diplomat, not just a professor," said Chambers.

Hunter-Garrett was a the chair of the International Affairs program at Kinn College prior to taking the deputy secretary post.

Chambers, who is up for re-election in 2014, also urged President Menuhaeo and the international community to do more to help ease the tension in Ukraine, following Russia's forceful annexation of the Crimean Peninsula.

"I think we ought to be doing more instead of just sitting idly by while (Vladimir) Putin takes what doesn't belong to him," said Chambers. "We don't have to send thousands of troops over there, but we could do more than just freezing assets in Western bank accounts."

Chambers has no opponent yet in the fall race. Several no-name Conservatives are running to challenge him in November. But he is considered potentially vulnerable, since South Ceona is a more conservative state and the minority party (the CNS this go-round) historically fares better in mid-term elections (2014 is a mid-term election).

In other words, he's not considered vulnerable yet. But he could face a tough fight for re-election, depending on which CNS candidate wins the primary and how much money party leaders and conservative activists are willing to spend on the race.

Earlier this year, rumors were circulating that Chambers might switch parties and become a Conservative. A spokeswoman for his campaign shot down that idea, saying in a statement that "Vic Chambers is running for re-election as a Nationalist, and he is proud to be a Nationalist."

Meanwhile, also appearing on Landscape next to Chambers, was another senator who is up for re-election this year.

Conservative-turned-Democratic-Reformist Sen. Paul Ludtke of Ansleigha expressed similar sentiments about the lack of a Foreign Affairs nominee, but disagreed with Chambers on the Ukraine crisis.

"The last thing we need to do is up the rhetoric and make a military provocation. The days of Grassadellia and the United States being the world's policemen are over. Those days ended when George W. Bush and Dan Byelle left office, and we don't want to bring them back," said Ludtke. "What we need to do is put pressure on Russia diplomatically and through the seizure and freezing of assets, and also through other economic sanctions. Hit them in the pocket book. And build international public opinion against them so they are forced to stop this very provocative move."

Ludtke added that Russia's invasion of Crimea was "absolutely unjust, and a total violation of international law." But he cautioned against military involvement by Western powers.

"Military involvement should be a last resort, and I don't think we're at that point yet. But obviously, if Putin keeps marching across Europe swallowing up countries like Hitler did in the 1940's, then that would be an appropriate time to act swiftly and with decisiveness."

Ludtke was a moderate Conservative until switching parties four years ago after what he called the "lunacy of the Conservative Party" and its "obsession" with social issues.

Holding mostly libertarian views, Ludtke is an accountant and CPA by trade, and also an adjunct professor of Economics at Randolph College in Ansleigha. He is fiscally conservative but socially liberal.

It's unclear who Ludtke's opponent(s) will be in the coming fall election. Former senate candidates Mark Altberg and Jon Schauman, both Nationalists, are thought to be considering a run against him. Schauman narrowly lost to Ludtke in 2010.

Conservatives are also planning to challenge Ludtke. Former Assemblywoman McKendra Brown, a moderate pro-choice Conservative who represented the seat of Gowlinson, which encompasses Koeurn, the state's largest city, is mulling a bid.

Current Assemblywoman Tara Burlingame of Chadwick and the Donsides, an electorate based in southwest Ansleigha's coal country, is also considering a run.

However, there is concern among some in the CNS that some of Burlingame's more libertarian views may overlap with Lutke's. and that she may have more in common with the incumbent than preferred, though Burlingame is decisively more conservative on social issues.

Whichever candidates win each parties' respective nominations, the Senate race in Ansleigha will be one worth watching. A likely three-way race could result in either a close finish, or a split centre-right vote, which would virtually hand the seat to the Nationalists, who hold a sizable majority of seats in the upper house.

Penora urges legislature to approve record education spending

RODDITCH, Damoign -- Deeming education "the moral calling of our time," Damoign Gov. Rod Penora (N) urged members of the state legislature to approve his education budget amendment by the end of May 2014.

Penora's budget calls for a record $20 billion in education spending. That's more than the $19.6 billion for the 2013-2014 fiscal year, and more than the $18.8 billion spent under former Gov. Sid Hoffa (C) during the 2012-2013 fiscal year.

During a speech at Mellenbank University in Rodditch in the state's north-central region, Gov. Penora said education is "the cornerstone upon which all society is driven."

"The origin of our society and the rules by which it is governed are traced back to a well-educated populace, and we have the moral responsibility to make sure education is a top priority. And that's why I am proposing, and urging the members of the legislature, to pass this record education budget, because we have to put our children first," said Penora.

With a population of 20 million people, Damoign is by far the most populous state in the country. The state has almost 4 million school age children from pre-school to secondary school.

Of the $20 billion proposed by Penora, $1 billion would go to universal pre-kindergarten funding, while some $1.2 billion would go to after-school programs. Another $990 million would go to alternative education opportunities, for students who excel in non-traditional educational settings.

But while many education lobbyists and members of the governor's party support his increased education spending, predictably, not everyone is happy.

Critics say, among other things, the budget increases spending without focusing on unsatisfactory test scores and graduation rates.

"You can't just throw money at education and think that's going to help the problem. We have more children ever before who are struggling to meet proficiency in math, science and social studies, and we have the worst graduation rates we've ever had. And the governor and his supporters just want to spend more money. They think that's the answer, and that's not the answer. That's a very rudimentary approach to an extremely complex problem," state Sen. Jim Mastinos, a Conservative from the Columbus area in south-central Damoign, told The Grassadellia City Times.

Others say the budget has too much money going toward teacher pensions, and widens the gap between urban and rural schools.

"What we're seeing in the governor's budget is increased spending and a primary focus on urban schools, especially in the greater Merryton Valley area, while schools in the downstate region and in rural counties seem to get the short end of the stick funding-wise," said Sheila Jackson-Weiler, an education lobbyist for Cooperative Solutions, an education think tank in north Damoign.

The governor's proposed budget also provides little spending for home-schooled students, according to advocates.

"It's no secret that Governor Penora is not a fan of home-schooling or private schools. He is overtly and unapologetically in favour of state-funded education, and adamantly opposed to any other options for students or parents," Chris Skimpson of the National Home-School Association told the National Press Foundation (NPF).

Penora's office shot down those claims, with the governor's appointed Education Secretary Clive Dillard telling The Grassadellia City Times editorial board that the governor wants an "equal-access, equal opportunity education system equal to none" in any other state.

"These criticisms are based out of fear of the unknown and also just plain ignorance. Perhaps these opponents of the governor's education priorities need to read the budget. If only they'd do that, they would see that the governor is putting all school children first. He supports students, he supports teachers, he supports the teachers unions, and he wants Damoign to have a first-rate, landmark education system that is not equaled in any other state," Secretary Dillard said.

State Senate Minority Leader James Tiberias of Tolston said there are portions of the education budget that he favours and portions he would like to edit.

"Some of it is good, some of it needs re-working, and I hope the governor and the majority party will be open to re-working the budget in a bipartisan fashion," said Tiberias.

Dr. Deborah Calkins, PhD and superintendent of Grassadellia City Public Schools, the largest district in the nation, said she was pleased with the budget.

"It's nice to have a governor in office who truly understands the importance of education funding on a state level," said Calkins.

The state's largest teachers union, the Damoign Education Association (DEA), is also satisfied with the proposed budget.

"This budget needs to be approved and it needs to be done quickly so we can plan for the future," Donna Alboy, the DEA's executive director, told the Times.

The governor told the NPF he is open to working with Conservatives but won't "piss around" with the issue.

Penora, in his second year as governor, is known for his off-colour remarks and antagonistic language toward political opponents.

Actress Sofia Gloriares under fire for comments about race

GRASSADELLIA CITY - It was supposed to be a typical celebrity magazine interview. But while Glamour's sit-down with actress Sofia Gloriares covered the usual topics of beauty, fashion and dating tips, it was Ms. Gloriares' comments about race that have caused an uproar from some minority groups.

In the interview, celebrity columnist Alison Keilar asked Gloriares, who starred in such movies as The Latina Sisterhood and Dark Ventures, a series of questions about the types of men the actress falls for.

Keilar: "What is the first thing you notice about a man?"

Gloriares: "Well the first thing I notice is his skin tone."

Keilar: "Why do you say that?"

Gloriares: "Because I only like white men. Or occasionally a Latino guy. The more Caucasian the better though, for me. Black guys, Asians, Middle Eastern guys, they just are not attractive. I don't mean that in a bad way. I just don't find them as attractive. So obviously when I see a guy, the first thing I'm going to notice is if his appearance as a whole is attractive, and a big part of that for me is his skin tone. If he has that milky white skin tone and Caucasian features, then I'm sold right there. Assuming he's attractive and in good shape."

Keilar, a bit perplexed, continued.

Keilar: "The first thing you notice is skin tone? Don't you think that's a little unusual? Most women would say the first thing they notice about a man is his eyes, or chest, or butt or muscular arms or his laugh..."

Gloriares: "Well I'm not most women."

It's those lines about skin tone and "the more Caucasian the better" that has attracted all the attention.

Social media lit up Friday when the article was published in print and on Glamour's website. The topic was talked about by hundreds of thousands on Facebook, Instagram and Tumblr, and the hash tag #skintone was trending on Twitter for much of the day.

Most of the public's reaction on social media was in defense of Gloriares, but some were outraged.

"The more Caucasian the better? Blacks, Asians, Middle Easterners aren't attractive? That's not only insensitive, it's ignorant," wrote one woman on Glamour's Facebook page.

"Anyone who thinks skin tone is the most important thing about a person is shallow and ill-informed," tweeted Joshua, a 22-year-old college junior from Haystead University in Damoign.

Many more notable voices with larger audiences also sounded off.

Mary Cielentes, the Director of the Latino-Grassadellian Advocacy Centre in Grassadellia City, took issue with Gloriares' 'unfortunate' words.

"I think what Ms. Gloriares said is unfortunate and incorrect. All people, all ethnic groups, races, nationalities have attractive people. And while you as an individual may find one particular type or ethnicity attractive, that does not disqualify someone from a different group as being attractive. It does not mean all people from a certain group are unattractive. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. And just because you have your personal preferences does not mean you should walk into an interview with a national publication and make incendiary remarks about race and paint everyone of a specific racial group with a broad brush," said Cielentes.

Gloriares herself is a Latina women, and has said in the past she is proud of her Hispanic heritage, something that was of little comfort to Cielentes.

"The fact that she is a member of the minority community in this country makes her comments all the more troubling."

Lionel Hammond, a Black newspaper cultural columnist from the Lansdale Focus, told the GBC's London Brightwell that while Gloriares used a poor choice of words, he believes her comments were meant to be innocent.

"The way she said it was stupid. Very poorly worded. But she was asked, what do you notice about guys, essentially, what type of men do you go for? And she responded by saying she has a preference for Caucasian men. She likes their features and their skin tone and she finds that attractive. I don't think she meant to convey that non-white people are ugly, or that she detests certain ethnic groups. I'm not getting that vibe. I'm just getting the vibe that she meant one thing but it came out in a poorly worded, utterly ignorant sounding way."

Other celebrities made light of the situation.

"So it sounded bad. I don't think she meant it that way. She likes white men. Who doesn't? I mean, most women look at David Beckham or Brad Pitt and think, 'yeah, I like that.' Can you fault her for that?" Kathie Debchant said in a discussion about the incident on STAR TV's Celebrity Cabaret.

"Besides, if she doesn't like Black men or Asian men or Middle Eastern men or whoever, that just leaves more beautiful men for me," laughed Dechant.

Daniel Akavian, a Black actor and model, posted a picture on Twitter of himself wearing nothing except a tightly-fitting speedo, with the caption "Apparently I'm not hot enough for Sofia Gloriares."

The actor later said he was just joking and not offended by Gloriares' comments.

"I think we just need to laugh it off. Sofia has her personal preferences with men and what appeals to her and what doesn't. We all have our own preferences. It might seem shallow, but it's just human nature to have your own preferences. Most of us aren't brave enough to talk about them, but Sofia did, and I don't think the backlash is necessary. She maybe didn't say it the best way, but I think it was not meant in a mean-spirited way," Akavian told GNN's Pierre Chilpinne.

Even Alison Keilar, who interviewed Gloriares for the Glamour piece, told The Times of London she believed Gloriares' remarks were not malicious.

"I was a bit surprised when she said that, but I can tell you, I never got the sense from her that she meant what she said in a malicious way. I think she was just talking about sex appeal and attraction. I don't think there was any deep-seated, racial motivation behind what she said."

Gloriares finally issued a statement through her publicist Friday evening.

"Just to clarify about my comments to Glamour, I do not have hatred or prejudice toward any ethnic groups or racial groups. My words have been taken out of context. I was asked what I notice about men and what I find physically appealing in men. I do find Caucasian men attractive. I do find a lighter skin tone more appealing to my personal preferences. But I do not think other race groups are ugly or unattractive. I know there are many attractive people from all groups of people. I believe that all people are beautiful, and a person's skin color does not define their worth."

The statement ended with an apology.

"I sincerely, with all my heart, apologize to anyone who was offended by my words. It was all meant in good fun, in a light-hearted conversation about dating. I apologize to anyone who feels hurt by what I said. I hope my love for all humanity and all people won't be tinged by these unintentionally poorly-spoken words I said."

Late night houseboat fire kills 6 in rural New Portsmouth

LAKE SURREY, New Portsmouth -- Six people are confirmed dead and four others injured after a massive fire on a houseboat in rural New Portsmouth overnight.

Four of the fatalities were children, the New Portsmouth State Police said.

The fire broke out around midnight late Saturday night-early Sunday morning.

At the time of the fire, the boat was adrift about a mile off-shore on Lake Surrey, a large inland lake that is within the boundaries of Steigaken State Park, about 20 miles southeast of Mt. Sabacca National Park in rural central New Portsmouth.

In total, there were six adults and four children on board, all family members. Investigators believe the fire started when one of the children was playing with a lighter and ignited some linens in the cabin.

All four children, ages 4 through 8, were killed. Two elderly adults in their 70s were killed as well.

The Sabadohn County Coroner is still investigating, but believes the fatalities were caused either by burns and smoke inhalation.

One child is believed to have died of hypothermia after jumping into the water, which park rangers say was about 41 degrees Fahrenheit.

Investigators have determined the vessel exploded after catching fire, which may have also contributed to the deaths.

The New Portsmouth Parks Department and the Sabadohn County Sheriff's Department are investigating the fire. The New Portsmouth State Police are assisting in the investigation.

Chief Ranger Rick Steigall, Commissioner of the state Parks Department, said the fire is the worst in the history of the department.

"This is a very tragic and terrible situation. In my 31 years with the state Parks Department, I have never seen a tragedy of this proportion and this high of casualties," said Steigall.

Sabadohn County is the state's largest geographically, but one of the smallest in population. It is home to Mt. Sabacca National Park, as well as numerous other natural recreation areas.

Lake Surrey is the largest lake in the state, more than 18 miles long and more than 4 miles wide.

New Portsmouth Gov. Charles Wornkin promised a thorough investigation into the matter, and a re-evaluation of maritime safety laws that govern the state's lakes and rivers.

"We will, of course, look very deeply and extensively into the cause, and to determine if there is anything that could have been done to prevent the loss of life in this awful tragedy," said Wornkin.

Plane overruns runway at Mattinow airport

MATTINOW, Damoign -- Emergency crews are responding to a crash-landing at Mattinow's Millesday International Airport, after a plane overran the runway, the Mattinow Aurora has confirmed.

A spokesperson for the airport told Mattinow's Channel 10 News the plane, a GrassAir Boeing 777, overran the runway by about 80 to 100 feet.

GrassAir says no major injuries have been reported, though many passengers were taken to the hospital with minor, non-life-threatening injuries.

The plane crashed at Mattinow during a routine landing, after departing from Lansdale earlier in the evening. GrassAir reports 177 passengers were on board, and eight flight crew members.

The Boeing 777 appears to have suffered only minor damage.

The airport is currently shut down while emergency crews continue to evaluate the scene and investigators from the Grassadellian Aviation Authority (GAA) look into the accident.

Ryder switches races, surprises fellow Conservatives

STARKSMIN, Wellington -- There's been somewhat of a political earthquake in Wellington over the past 48 hours.

Just as candidates were beginning to secure the backing of party leaders and wealthy financiers, and just as the candidate rosters were nearly set for the primary election, Secretary of State Robyn Ryder (C) announced he will not seek re-election and will instead run for Attorney General instead.

Ryder made the announcement late Monday night from his home in Starksmin.

His announcement has shaken the political landscape in Wellington, where Conservatives were hoping their roster of candidates was finally set after several candidates switched races or dropped out.

In a video posted on his campaign website, Mr Ryder said he has "loved" serving as Secretary of State, but believes "it's time for a change" in his political career.

"Being secretary of state is great and I love it. But I feel like I can better use my skills as attorney general. I'm a lawyer, and being a lawyer, I have experience in the courtroom. I have experience standing up for the people of Wellington as secretary of state. And now I'd like to continue fighting for Wellingtonians by serving as their next attorney general," said Ryder.

He continued, "Right now the attorney general's office is just not being run as effectively as it should be. The attorney general is supposed to stand up for Wellington's interests, protect our citizens and our children, and defend the Wellington Constitution. And over the past four years, we have seen very little work on our behalf from the current administration."

Ryder's move not only shocked party leaders and political observers, it also angered fellow Conservative Liz McKinn, who announced she was running for attorney general back in January.

"I feel betrayed by Robyn Ryder right now," McKinn said in an interview with a Starksmin radio station. "I thought he was my friend and my political ally, but now he's my opponent. I think the least he could have done was call me and give me a heads up he was going to do this, instead of not saying anything and then I wake up to see it in the paper the next morning. It was an ambush."

McKinn, a state senator from Hollam and former lieutenant governor candidate, previously announced in 2013 she was running for governor. She later dropped out of the governor's race and decided to run for attorney general after Assemblyman Wade Quanson (C) entered the gubernatorial race.

In his video statement, Mr Ryder acknowledged there were other candidates that had already declared for the attorney general position, but he said he believes he has the best chance of winning.

"I respect the other candidates already in the race, but I believe I am the only person who can beat Mike Kozinski," said Ryder.

Mike Kozinski, a Nationalist, is the incumbent. He is seeking a second term in 2014.

Few people of knew of Ryder's last-minute switch, according to sources close to the situation.

Ryder, who has served as secretary of state since 2008, had previously said he would seek re-election in 2014.

In 2013, Ryder toyed with running for governor in 2014, but decided against it.

But sources close to his campaign, who asked not to be identified because they were not permitted to speak to the media, said Ryder was growing discontent as secretary of state.

"It's a low-exposure job. You don't get as much credit or limelight as the governor does or the attorney general does. I think he's bored as secretary of state, and I think he also knows that jumping from the attorney generalship to the governorship is a lot easier than going from secretary of state to governor. You can rack up a lot more achievement and accomplishments and really build your resume up as AG. That's something you can't really do as secretary of state," one source told The Chamber.

The source added that if Ryder wins the attorney general seat, he will be better-positioned to win the governorship down the road.

"Attorney General really fits his personality more than secretary of state does anyway. He has a very principled, stubborn, combative personality and that really lends itself to the attorney general's job more so than the secretary of state's job, which is supposed to be more diplomatic and non-controversial."

Though she's clearly angry, Liz McKinn has not indicated her response to Ryder's entry into the attorney general race. Some wonder if McKinn will drop out of the race now that Ryder is in the picture.

Mike Kozinski's campaign has been silent as well. A campaign spokesman, when contacted by the reporters Tuesday, only said the campaign wanted "to see how things play out" with the CNS intra-party conflict that appears poised to happen.

Both candidates for governor, Wade Quanson (C) and incumbent Pierre Carten (N) did not comment on the matter Tuesday.

Ryder's switch also creates an opening for candidates of both parties who are now more inclined to run for the vacant secretary of state position.

His decision also leaves the CNS with an open seat that was once safe but is now vulnerable to takeover.

Several candidates from both parties have expressed interest in running to succeed Ryder in the secretary of state's office.

Grapevine County Auditor Colleen Daniels (C), a rising star in the state CNS party, appears to be the leading Conservative candidate thus far, while Nationalists immediately pointed to Lois Mjeden as a possible candidate for their party.

Mjeden is the wife of Starksmin Mayor Nikolaas Mjeden.

Having been born in Serbia, raised in Estonia, and educated in Sydney, Australia before settling in Wellington, where she works for several non-profit organizations, Mrs Mjeden has a compelling life story that Nationalists say would make her a strong contender.

Whoever enters the race, one thing is certain: Wellington will have no shortage of political theatre this go-round.

Halitz concedes she should spend more time in home state

CHRISTENKERR, East Deschire -- Caught up in an ever-increasingly difficult primary race against a well-known opponent, incumbent Sen. Denna Halitz (C) admitted Wednesday she has not spent enough time back home in East Deschire, and plans to spend more time in the state she represents in the future.

Halitz made the admission in an interview with local GBC Radio affiliate 1390 AM. When asked by local political radio host Michael Damser why she has spent less time in East Deschire than the state's three other senators, Halitz admitted she has not come home enough on the weekends and during Congressional recesses.

Said Damser: "The Hansboro Laureate (newspaper) says you only came back to East Deschire 15 times last year (2013). That's significantly less than our other three senators. And the paper says you only appeared at seven public events (in 2013), also less than your colleagues. How come you have been so reluctant to come back? Don't you think that, as a senator who represents the people of the state of East Deschire, you should spend more time here in our state to talk with voters and meet with constituents about issues that are important to them? It seems to some that you're a senator in absentia. You technically represent East Deschire but you're never here. Isn't that a legitimate criticism?"

Halitz responded by acknowledging she has not spent enough time with constituents.

"I think that's a very fair question and I will admit that I have not spent enough time back here at home in East Deschire. I've been so busy in Mavocke that I haven't allowed myself to come home as often as I should. And I admit that and apologize for that. I owe it to the citizens of this state to be around and available and to spend more time on East Deschire soil."

She continued, "For me, it's not that I don't like coming back to East Deschire. I'd much rather be here than in Mavocke, to tell the truth. It's just that as a member of Congress, you get so busy and involved in legislation and committees, and charity work and conferences and policy work, that you forget the most important thing is the people. It's going down to the local diner to have coffee and talk with your neighbors. It's walking in parades and shaking hands of the citizens you represent, and attending festivals and community events and talking with people. That's the most important thing a member of Congress can do, and unfortunately I have not done enough of that, and I'm very sorry about that, and I pledge to do more of that in the future and not get so engrossed in the paperwork and the policy work of Mavocke," said Halitz.

Unsurprisingly, former hardline Sen. Nancy Lindselli, who is challenging Halitz in the CNS primary election, was quick to seize on the Laureate's article.

"The Hansboro Laureate says that Denna Halitz has spent less time in East Deschire than any of our other senators. The Laureate also pointed out that I spent more time in East Deschire, on average, than any of the current senators, when I was in office. That really goes to show the level of commitment of both respective candidates. Senator Halitz feels it's better to stay in Mavocke and hob-knob with politicians and interest groups, while I feel the best way to do your job as a legislator is to be on the ground with the people you represent, so you can gauge their opinions and feelings and go back to Mavocke and cast a vote that represents their views. It's a commitment issue," Lindselli said in a press conference with East Deschire media in Derosa, Wednesday.

The Laureate's  research showed Conservative Sen. Mike Aventhalle spent the most time in East Deschire last year, making 35 trips back to the state from Mavocke during 2013. Sen. Portia McLendon (N) made 27 trips back to East Deschire, while Sen. Allison Sweeten (N) made 18. Halitz made only 15, according to the paper.

The paper's analysis of travel records also found Lindselli traveled home 45 times in 2012, the last year she was in office, however, 2012 was a campaign year and Lindselli was up for re-election (she lost to Sweeten in a very close race).

The paper also scrutinized public events held by the senators, including town hall meetings, community forums, and meet-and-greets.

McLendon held the most events, holding 28 for the year 2013, while Aventhalle held 24. Sweeten held 14, and Halitz just 7.

Aventhalle made more trips to East Deschire for political fundraisers, according to documents disclosed by the campaigns.

Meanwhile, in an interview with the Christenkerr Ledger, Halitz defended herself, and insisted she has not been entirely disengaged from the state during her tenure.

"Every day, I sit down at my desk and I listen to phone calls from my constituents, I answer their emails, many of them personally. I write letters to folks, I skype with my constituents back home in East Deschire several times a week. I do conference calls, I do online chats where the public can interact with me. I do interviews with East Deschire TV stations and newspapers. I Facebook and I tweet. And when I'm busy or in a meeting or the Senate's in session, I have my staff represent me at functions and back home in East Deschire. And they keep me updated and help me communicate with folks back home. So I do have some areas where I can improve. But it's not as if I'm completely detached from the people I represent."

Polls show Halitz's lack of connection with the state's voters may be the number one issue on CNS primary voters' minds. A poll published Monday by the Weber Society, a conservative fiscal group, showed 71% of CNS voters think Halitz is too liberal.

The poll also found that 61% of respondents think Nancy Lindselli is more committed to East Deschire, and 59% believe Lindselli better represents their values.

Those numbers are alarming to the Halitz campaign, which explains why the embattled senator has been seeking to re-establish ties to her home state, particularly in the western half of the state, where Halitz has spent less time and is not as well known or liked.

A spokesman for Denna Halitz's campaign said the senator has a "rigorous" schedule for the next several months, and will be making many campaign appearances across the state.

"Denna Halitz is a senator for all of East Deschire. She believes we are better off as a state when we are united as one and not divided by political or geographical differences and boundaries," a statement from her campaign read.

The senator's next big campaign event will be this Saturday in the central East Deschire town of Freelan, where she will speak to community leaders about transportation and improving the economy in the hub city, which lies at the junction of NR-15 and NR-71.

She'll also travel to several smaller towns in the central part of the state as a part of her "rural community outreach" program.

Menuhaeos highlight armed forces, tout science and culture in Veroche trip

TWIN LAKES, Veroche -- It's been a very busy past three days for President Brenton Menuhaeo and First Lady Carolla Menuhaeo, as they've traveled around the state in Veroche not to campaign for fellow Nationalist political candidates, but to stump for important causes.

The first couple arrived in Lanakis late Friday evening, where the president spoke at the Murkallo Institute, a leading pharmaceutical research facility in east Lanakis.

The Murkallo Institute employs over 400 scientists, and in recent years, has produced ground-breaking research in treating cancer, AIDS, and Alzheimer's disease, among others. Calling the Institute's work "vital," President Menuhaeo said he would push Congress to approve nearly $400 million over the next seven years in grants and federal funding for the Institute.

"Every day, researchers here at the Murkallo Institute devote their skills, their time, their careers and their lives to discovering break-throughs in medicine and biotechnology. Life-saving treatments and medications are coming out of this wonderful facility, and I will push Congress to approve this spending proposal because this is money well-invested in the future of health care and science," Menuhaeo said.

The president was joined by three of Veroche's four senators --  Kit McHenry (C), Niles Gilcrest (C), and Mark Peoninski (N) -- all of whom said they would support the funding allocation.

After his speech, the president and first lady arrived at the state capitol of Pointe Leare, a small suburb that borders Lanakis on the south, Kanassett on the north, and Lake Hutchison on the west.

The Menuhaeos were hosted at the Veroche Governor's mansion by Gov. Linda Van Auhn and her husband Paul, who are longtime friends of the first family.

Saturday morning, the presidential entourage traveled three hours south to Trewallen Military Academy in Cloverfield in central Veroche, just outside the twin cities of Flicksman-DeMarra, for a military graduation ceremony.

Menuhaeo spoke to the infantry cadets, thanking them for their service and bestowing a Pendant of Sacred Duty upon each of the 350 graduates.

"Each of you brave young men and women have finished your formal military training today. But the real training is just beginning. The training that only comes with service in action. Serving alongside your brothers and sisters at arms. Serving alongside the forces of Grassadellia's allies in the battlefield and in times of peace. Serving the people of this country, who are counting on you to make them proud and to embody the honor this flag bestows," the president said, pointing to the national flag.

Menuhaeo is himself a Navy veteran of the Korean War.

He told the National Press Federation (NPF) that he "never tires of attending a military graduation ceremony."

"Seeing these young kids, who are signing up and signing their lives away to a cause greater than themselves, that really fills me up with pride."

Next on the agenda, the president and first lady were whisked even further south to Twin Lakes, where they watched a GSL soccer match between the Twin Lakes Hornets and the Owens Park Nomads.

The Menuhaeos showed a more relaxed side at the soccer game at Letchfield Stadium.

The president was seen having a beer and eating peanuts with Hornets owner Tom Marshall, while First Lady Carolla Menuhaeo was spotted sipping lemonade and sharing laughs with Twin Lakes Mayor Georgia Waldo Basson.

After a leisurely afternoon at the soccer game, it was off to a more formal event at the Sidney Altruss Opera House in downtown Twin Lakes, where the president and first lady were hosted once again by Gov. Van Auhn, Mayor Waldo Basson, and Twin Lakes-area MP Beth McGill, who represents the seat of Jilanovich-East Waters.

The dignitaries were treated to a performance by Italian-Grassadellian soprano Ava Cillione Dianchi, and world-renowned harpist Rebecca Von Keil, a Veroche native.

And finally, Sunday morning, the president headed north to the University of Western Veroche in Pendleton, where he gave his second speech of the weekend, speaking on the importance of the arts in Grassadellian culture.

"A lot of people think the military or a strong economy are the defining characteristics of our country," said Menuhaeo. "Those things are important, but the soul of our country, the very intimate essence of our nation's character is expressed not through military might or economic power, but through the arts and the gifts and talents of our citizens."

He used the opportunity to announce his proposal of a $280 million proposal for funding endowments for the arts, and urged Congress to act to pass it.

"A lot of people are pushing austerity right now because of the economy and the budget. But we cannot afford to be stingy when it comes to the arts, because they define our culture and give life to our society," he said.

And after dozens of handshakes, autographs and posing for pictures with college students, having traveled clockwise around the state for the past three days, the Menuhaeos boarded the presidential plane and flew back to Mavocke.

The three-day swing through Veroche was all apart of the president's plan to travel the country and highlight issues of national importance in campaign-like style, rather than from Collester where he is secluded from the public.

"President Menuhaeo very much loves to get out of Mavocke and travel around the country and interact with the Grassadellian people. He finds it invigorating and liberating from the walls of Mavocke that really tend to insulate the president and members of Congress from the reality out in the field," Collester spokesman Andy Satterberg told the NPF.

No future outings have been announced on the president's travel schedule. But as campaign season heats up, he's likely to be out touring the country to stump for fellow Nationalists. And with the NAT facing a tough election this year, the president could find himself spending a lot of time jet-setting around the country.

Gabler may face rematch with Conservative David Brown

MADAGEN, Marchenay -- It's going to be déjà vu in Marchenay this fall.

Conservative attorney and businessman David Brown announced he will run for governor again in the 2014 election.

"I'm running for governor because I see so much that needs to change in our state. I see our future slipping away before our eyes. I see our families being unduly burdened with taxes. I see our schools failing to perform. I see our healthcare system not meeting the needs of our people. And I see an incumbent who is more focused on her own political agenda than on serving those who elected her in the first place," Brown said at a campaign rally just outside Mavocke.

Brown previously ran for governor unsuccessfully against Christine Gabler (N) in 2012.

The 2012 race was a special election, marking Marchenay's first elections since the state broke off from the formerly unified state of Ceona.

Gabler (pronounced "Gabe-ler"), who at the time was governor of Ceona, defeated the lesser-known Brown by a margin of 55%-45% in the special election.

In accordance with the newly-established Marchenay Constitutional Charter, the special election in 2012 was only for a two-year term, so Gabler is up for re-election again this year. 

The 2014 election will be for a full, four-year term.

Despite a decisive defeat last go-round, the 54-year-old Brown, who hails from the state's capital city of Newcastle, is optimistic about his chances in 2014.

He cites the strong NAT momentum in 2012, as well as Gabler's incumbency, which enhanced her appeal.

"2012 was a strong year for the NAT. So many Conservative candidates tried to rise above the NAT tsunami that swept the nation, but they weren't able to, myself included," Brown told the Newcastle Daily Register. "And because it was a special election, and Marchenay was electing a new governor to oversee the transition to independent statehood, I think a lot of voters looked to Christine Gabler as a sort of stability to help lead our state through that time."

But Brown points out a lot has changed since 2012.

For starters, Gabler became Governor General (a position also known as "Chair of the Governors Board") in 2010, succeeding popular POG Gov. Donna Almone.

Gabler remained Chair after her 2012 re-election bid, and still currently holds the position.

But her role as the nation's highest-ranking governor has caused her to lose focus on her home-state duties, said Brown.

 "Christine Gabler is so focused on being Governor General that she has lost sight of the very people she is supposed to serve at the most basic level: the people of Marchenay, who elected her. We elected her to serve as our governor. And instead, she is out in the spotlight, enjoying the national media attention, and plotting her national ambitions rather than serving as a full-time governor for our state," said Brown.

Furthermore, Brown said, is Gabler's lengthy tenure in public office.

She has been a governor since 2008, when she was elected governor of Ceona. She served in that capacity until the 2012 election, when she ran for the interim, inaugural governorship of Marchenay.

"She's been governor of Marchenay and before that, the territory of Marchenay, for almost six years now. And what do we have to show for it? Nothing but higher taxes, no change in the unemployment, no change in our business climate, no change in our social welfare system, no improvements in education or healthcare or transportation. Nothing. She has no accomplishments," said Brown.

Brown adds that Gabler has been in government for more than 15 years, working for the state attorney general's office and for the Federal Department of Justice.

"She's been in office way too long. It's time for some new blood, some new ideas, some new leadership. Someone from outside of government that can really reform the way we do business here in Marchenay," said Brown.

Supporters of Gabler hit back at Brown, Friday, saying the governor has a clear record of achievement.

"Christine Gabler has stood up for Marchenayans. She has fought corporate greed, fought to protect consumers from greedy big businesses, fought for social justice, and fought the fat cats of finance to protect the hard-working citizens of our state," said state Sen. Joe Migeleccio  (N-Ampton Grove) told the Daily Register.

Gabler's campaign also responded directly to Brown's assertions.

"David Brown is just another typical, run-of-the-mill Conservative, who is in bed with big business, the oil companies, and the top 1% of the socio-economic ladder," campaign spokeswoman Cassie Yentle said in an email.

"Marchenayans know that Christine Gabler has their back. They know she fights day in and day out for the people of our state, for progress, for real reform. Christine Gabler is not afraid of a fight with the corporate bigwigs or the wealthy elite. She has stood, from day one, up for equality and fairness, and she will always remain committed to that fight."

Though the rhetoric is already flying from both sides, David Brown doesn't have a clear shot at the Conservative nomination for governor.

Conservative activist Andy Rapalli, from Bentbrook in the state's northeast, is set to run as well. 

Rapalli, who is staunchly opposed to tax increases and favors cutting the budget to reduce the state's debt burden, has not officially announced his candidacy but is widely expected to next month.

If he does run, Rapalli would have much less name recognition and money than Brown. Party insiders are most certainly to support Brown, who is seen as a much more viable candidate than the far-right Rapalli.

Still, Rapalli could make the path to the CNS nomination a little more tricky for Brown, and the far-right activist could for the party's front-runner to the right, which could prove damaging in the general election in left-leaning Marchenay.

Lindselli injured in auto accident

HANSBORO, East Deschire -- Former Federal Sen. Nancy Lindselli was injured in an auto accident Monday morning.

Begoran County Emergency Dispatch confirmed Lindselli, 76, was injured in a single-car roll-over accident in rural northwest Begoran County around 10 am Monday.

Lindselli was heading westbound on Honey Hill Road en route to visit her colleague, former Federal Sen. Roger Gzarno, who resides in the small town of Gansberg in neighboring Firmont County, about two hours away from Lindselli's home in southern Begoran County.

Police say Lindselli struck a patch of ice, which caused her 2013 Ford Escape SUV to lose control and careen down a wooded embankment.

Lindselli was stuck inside the vehicle. A woman walking her dog down the road noticed the incapacitated vehicle over the embankment and called 911.

Emergency crews from Begoran County responded, while Firmont County deputies assisted the call.

Lindselli had to be extricated from the vehicle. She was transported to the nearby Johnsville Community Hospital, and then air-lifted to Benevolence Hospital in Hansboro.

She was listed in serious but stable condition as of Tuesday afternoon. Doctors are optimistic she will recover.

Lindselli's daughter, Lacey Almira, told the media the family is grateful for prayers and support from the community.

"We are so grateful my mother is alive and in stable condition. We are so thankful to the person who called for help and to the emergency personnel who responded to her accident. We're also grateful to her doctors and nurses that are working with her. And to all of the community members who have been praying for her and thinking of her. It is really encouraging and gives my mother strength," the younger Lindselli said in an interview with local media.

Former Sen. Roger Gzarno also said in a statement he is "deeply concerned" about the injuries Lindselli sustained, but is glad she is okay.

The two former senators had planned to meet for lunch Monday to catch up, which was the purpose of their meeting.

"I'm so sorry to hear my friend Nancy was injured in an accident. I feel bad that it happened while she was on her way to see me," said Gzarno to Hansboro Local 6 News. "I visited her at the hospital and she is in good spirits and I know she will make a full recovery."

As for their lunch, they'll have to reschedule, said Gzarno.

"When she's all healed up, we'll have to lunch again. Maybe I'll drive to her house this time instead," he joked.

Conservative primary shaping up in East Deschire governor's race

HANSBORO, East Deschire -- With less than six months to go before the East Deschire primary, Conservative Assemblyman Dane Gutmeier (pronounced "Gute-meyer") finds himself at the front of a crowed pack in the race for the CNS nomination for governor, according to a recent poll.

The Liberty poll of 786 likely CNS voters found Gutmeier, who represents the seat of Abbott-Allistair in the southern part of the state, with the most support, with just over 27% of respondents choosing him as their first pick.

Christenkerr Mayor Phil Qwenberry, who is notably more moderate, came in second place, with just over 22%.

He was followed by Iraq War veteran and hard-right activist Tim Hutsell of Dillingham, who received 18%.

Former Federal Sen. Roger Gzarno (pronounced "Sz-ar-no") received 16%, and Assemblyman Sam Pyatt, who represents the seat of Pittsgol in the East Deschire panhandle, came in last place with 15%.

The numbers confirm what many Conservative Party leaders have been arguing: that Gutmeier is the party's most viable choice to nominate for governor.

He's only been in the National Assembly since 2010, but the sophomore assemblyman has already struck a bipartisan tone while sticking to his core conservative values.

Gutmeier is backed by the party establishment, but conservative enough that hard-line Conservatives would likely coalesce around him, party officials say.

"Dane Gutmeier is the best-positioned candidate we have to nominate against Lynn DeMont," Michael Ocalis, a CNS political consultant based in Derosa, told the Hansboro Laureate.

But Gutmeier's relative youth (he's 48) could be a problem. Some business leaders view Qwenberry, a political veteran in southeastern East Deschire, as the more experienced and pro-business candidate.

"Phil Qwenberry has been a mayor, city councilor, county commissioner, state legislator and businessman in the Vandershutes region for decades. He knows how to navigate state government and work through the red tape," Chris Donaldson, a Christenkerr City Councilor who serves with Qwenberry, said of his colleague.

Still other prominent Conservatives are not backing either of the front-runners.

Assemblywoman Sara Fraser of Derosa, who represents the seat of Bridgeworth, was an early supporter of Hutsell, who is the only candidate who has officially filed papers to run thus far.

Fraser, who spoke with the Laureate by phone Tuesday from Mavocke, said she was sticking with Hutsell, despite the looming entries into the race by other prominent candidates.

"While I respect Dane Gutmeier and my colleague Sam Pyatt and Senator Gzarno, I was a strong supporter of Tim Hutsell on day one, and I remain a strong supporter of his. I believe he has the courage to take on Lynn DeMont, and the fire in his belly to storm his way to Derosa and fight for conservative change," said Fraser.

She declined to comment on Qwenberry, whom she has said in the past is too moderate.

Two prominent Conservatives who opted not to run -- former Federal Sen. Seth Harkin and Hansboro Mayor Bill Engstrom -- are not marking endorsements at this time.

Many caution though that it's still too early to make endorsements.

"We have a lot of time before the May 13 primary, and we haven't really given the candidates a chance to state their positions and campaign yet," State Conservative Party Vice Chairman Phil Vancell told the Laureate.

Having announced his candidacy way back in August, Tim Hutsell has spent the most time traveling the state campaigning and raising money.

While he has a devoted group of supporters and campaigns with a fervor many politicians don't possess, Hutsell has largely limited his appearances to small towns and rural counties, and has steered clear of the state's larger, more liberal urban centres, where his backwoods, almost redneck-like conservative libertarian values are not as welcomed.

Neither Dane Gutmeier nor Phil Qwenberry have officially announced their candidacy, but neither has moved to quash speculation either. Qwenberry has publicly stated his interest in running, while Gutmeier has privately mulled a bid, though his political ambitions were leaked to the media last fall.

Roger Gzarno and Sam Pyatt have also said they are both considering a run for governor, but have not made official plans.

It's possible all five men will end up in the race, making for a crowded fight for the chance to take on two-time incumbent Lynn DeMont (N), who is running for his third but second full term.

DeMont's last two elections were both close, but his approval ratings have remained high. East Deschireans value his centrist views, his bipartisanship at the state capitol, and his folksy, friendly demeanor.

But DeMont's popularity has taken a hit in the last year, as Conservatives have attacked him for being absent-minded and more focused on national ambitions. They specifically cite his position as Chairman of the Nationalist Governors Association (NATGA) and his frequent traveling outside the state for NATGA engagements as proof the governor has lost his focus.

"Lynn DeMont is a nice person. But he is more focused on climbing the political ladder in the Nationalist Party right now than he is on being governor of East Deschire," Paul Hackett, a spokesman for the rival Conservative Governors Association (CGA) said in an interview with the Laureate.

Conservatives are hoping DeMont's distance from his home state duties will help their chances at the polls in December. They're also trying to tie DeMont to the much more liberal Gov. Christine Gabler (N-Marchenay), who serves as the Chairwoman of the Governors Board.

DeMont has worked closely with Gabler, though the two Nationalist are far apart on the political spectrum.

Still, knocking off the state's inaugural governor won't be a walk in the park for Conservatives. DeMont has deep roots in the Harvest State, and despite East Deschire's considerable Conservative tilt, the state has trended blue in recent elections.

For now, both sides are gearing up for the forthcoming elections. DeMont has actively been raising money, and a spokeswoman for his campaign confirmed the fundraising pace will increase over the coming months.

"We expect to have lots of (NAT) star power here in East Deschire on Lynn DeMont's behalf," said spokeswoman Sara Eckland.

Ansleigha Gov. Dale Lindstrom, who is chairing the CGA for the 2012-2014 election cycle, told the GBC the CNS is prepared for a close race in East Deschire.

"A few months ago, we wrote this race off as unwinnable," said Lindstrom. "I think over the last month or two, the polling and the political mood in East Deschire have shown this is a winnable race, and we will allocate the appropriate resources needed to win."