Average turnout in Ansleigha primary; four-way race for governor ahead

RAWLINGSWORTH, Ansleigha -- Despite concerns about Coronavirus and the state's first-ever mail-in election, turnout in Ansleigha's primary election was still at normal levels, Secretary of State Fred Atchison reported Wednesday.

About 40% of voters cast a ballot in Tuesday's primary election.

That's about normal, Atchison said.

Ansleigha is the first state to hold a primary election this year, and amid the Coronavirus, all eyes were on the state to see how well its mail-in election went.

By most accounts, the election was a success.

Atchison says about 80% of voters either mailed their ballots or dropped them off at drop-box locations around the state.

Polling booths were still open for voters who wished to vote in person, but there were far less polling booth locations than usual.

Ansleigha has allowed absentee mail-in voting for years, but this was the first election in which a majority of ballots were cast through the mail.

State officials made the decision to switch to mail-in voting following recommendations from state health officials due to Coronavirus.

Turnout data released by Atchison's office shows slightly more Conservatives voted than Nationalists, but both parties were about even in the number and percentage of turnout.

The marquee race was the governor's race. For the first time since Ansleigha's statehood, there will not be an incumbent governor running for re-election.

The open race initially drew a large field of candidates in both parties, but several dropped out.

On the NAT side, Speaker of the State House Becky Grael won, beating out Carlinegan businessman Russ Hawley and Churchtown Mayor Paul Biddington.

Actor and political newcomer Sam Baskingwood took victory in the Conservative primary, defeating Gilliam car dealership owner Lou Gibbs, Lt. Governor Greg Lyons and Assemblyman Nick Winsich.

In most of the state's other races, only one or two candidates were running, with no major primary showdowns taking place.

Grael's victory is particularly historic. She is the first woman to be nominated for Ansleigha governor by a major party. She is also the first openly LGBTQ person to be nominated in the state for governor.

While she is the first in Ansleigha, Grael is the second openly LGBTQ gubernatorial nominee in the nation. Nationalist Beth Gowan of Monomi was the first LGBTQ nominee for governor of a state in 2014 and 2018, although she lost both elections.

Grael's two primary opponents both endorsed her after conceding.

On the Conservative side, actor Sam Baskingwood was the front-runner throughout the primary race. However, in recent weeks, ultra-conservative and Donald Trump admirer Lou Gibbs attacked Baskingwood relentlessly for being too moderate.

Top Conservative Party officials were concerned the outspoken and controversial Gibbs might upset the more centrist Baskingwood in the primary, but Baskingwood's money advantage helped keep him in the top spot.

Gibbs refused to concede on election night. He finally conceded Wednesday afternoon, saying on Facebook he could never support Baskingwood in the general election.

Instead, Gibbs endorsed another controversial candidate, Nationalist-turned-Independent Rosamond Burkes.

Burkes initially ran for governor as a Nationalist, but half-way through the primary campaign, she dropped out of the NAT race and announced she would run as an Independent.

Though a former Nationalist, Burkes is conservative on many issues. Her rowdy, populist-driven campaign has resonated with both disaffected Nationalist and Conservative voters.

Adding to the confusion, former Senator Paul Ludkte, a Conservative-turned-Democratic Reformist, filed to run for governor on the last day of the filing period.

That means Ansleigha will have a rare four-way race for governor in December.

Nationalist Becky Grael, Conservative Sam Baskingwood, Independent Rosamond Burkes, and Democratic-Reformist Paul Ludtke.

Lutdke has raised little money so far, but as a former senator, he is well-known.

His previous campaigns have focused on lowering taxes, cutting spending and protecting civil liberties.

No polls have been conducted yet on the four-way general election race.

But both the NAT and CNS have signaled they are willing to invest tens of millions of dollars into the battleground state.

And as the wealthy owner of a major mining company, Independent Rosamond Burkes has also said she will use millions of her own money to self-fund her campaign.

Ludtke's campaign is the least-funded of the four, and because of his late start, he is unlikely to raise cash at a comparable level with his three opponents.

But the former senator said he entered the raise at the last second because he felt none of the candidates running would make good governors.

"Sam Baskingwood has no experience whatsoever. Becky Grael has experience, but she is a fiercely partisan, liberal person. And she's entrenched in the establishment. And Rosamond Burkes says racist things and doesn't have the decorum or temperament," Ludtke told GBC Radio. "So I had to jump in the race."

Speaking to his supporters through a Facebook video recorded at his Elmhurst home, Baskingwood said he was the mainstream candidate in a group of extremists.

"What Ansleigha needs right now is a strong, Conservative leader who will lead our state with dignity and common sense," he said.

In a similar video posted on her social media accounts, Grael said her win was a sign that Ansleighans want change.

"We heard you loud and clear tonight, with our history-making result," Grael told supporters. "We're going to take our win tonight and keep it going to December and make history again when we become Ansleigha's next governor."

As an Independent candidate, Rosamond Burkes didn't have to compete against any primary opponents Tuesday night. But she posted a video on her Facebook page thanking those voters who did vote for her on the Independent ballot. And she took aim at Baskingwood and Grael.

"Sam and Becky are both celebrating tonight, but their party won't last, because we're going to win this December and we're going to win big. And when we do, it will shock the political establishment in both of the 'lame-stream' parties," said a riled Burkes.

While it's common for states to have multiple candidates for governor, it's rare to have four well-known and popular candidates.

Most races typically have two well-known candidates and several little-known, minor party candidates who get only a handful of votes.

Because of the historic and unusual nature of the Ansleigha governor's race, it will be difficult to predict a certain outcome in the December general election.

Ansleigha is a notorious battleground state with a roughly equal number of Conservative, Nationalist and Independent voters.

Because of the unusual factors, and the uncertainty surrounding the Coronavirus situation, most pollsters are rating the Ansleigha governor's race as a "Toss Up."

**Official Primary Election Results -- Ansleigha Governor's Race**

CNS

Sam Baskingwood	35.41%	265,227
Lou Gibbs	29.57%	221,505
Greg Lyons	19.38%	145,174
Nick Winsich	15.64%	117,157

NAT

Becky Grael	37.07%	268,335
Russ Hawley	33.45%	242,106
Paul Biddington	29.48%	213,342

Duvan to face predecessor Hoffa in Damoign governor's race

GRASSADELLIA CITY -- Former Damoign Governor Sid Hoffa has won the Conservative Party's primary election in his quest to reclaim his old position.

In a crowded race, Hoffa won with just under 20 percent of the vote. He was followed closely behind by former National Security Secretary Robert Austin, who secured 19.5 percent. And just like in the 2016 election, downstate Assemblywoman Pat Leemore took third place, with 18.6 percent.

Assemblyman Brian Tyker of central Damoign came in fourth place with 14.8 percent. The other five candidates received eight percent or less.

Under Damoign election laws, a candidate does not have to receive a majority of the votes in an election. A simple plurality is enough to be elected or win a party's nomination.

However, this year, concerns about the Coronavirus pandemic presented challenges to the normal voting process.

Concerned the pandemic would discourage people from voting, party leaders voted to allow mail-in votes for all voters for the first time.

In another historic first, the party's board of directors also voted to allow ranked-choice or preferential voting.

This system, where voters pick their first choice candidate, then their second choice, then their third, etc., has never been used in a major, statewide race in Damoign before by either party.

All the votes that were initially cast for the other seven candidates besides Hoffa and Austin were re-tabulated and re-assigned to either Hoffa or Austin.

With all the votes recounted and alternate choices assigned, Hoffa earned 54% of the total votes, while Austin won 46 percent.

Though the results were non-binding, with a majority of voters choosing through the ranked choice process backing Hoffa, the former Grassadellia City mayor and governor was able to claim a mandate.

In a Facebook video on his page, Hoffa thanked Austin and the other candidates for a "lively" primary election. He turned his focus immediately on incumbent Governor Jenna Duvan (N), who is seeking re-election.

"We've had a hard-fought primary race," said Hoffa. "Now it's over. We can come together as a party and work together to beat the socialist Nationalists in December."

Duvan is not a socialist, but with the governor shutting down businesses and schools due to the Coronavirus in recent weeks, Conservative politicians have begun to use the label against her.

Hoffa's victory means he will face off against Duvan in the fall general election.

No recent polling has been done on the race, but a prior poll found Hoffa trailing Duvan.

Though her popularity has slipped during the virus somewhat, Duvan remains relatively popular, and has won praise from members of both parties for her proactive leadership during the outbreak.

Hoffa say Duvan is too focused on image and self-promoting her "Instagram, picture-perfect brand."

"We need a governor, not a social media star," Hoffa said in his Facebook video Tuesday night.

Duvan did not comment on Hoffa's securing of the CNS nomination.

Robert Austin did concede the race to Hoffa and offered an endorsement.

"Sid Hoffa knows this state well, and he cares about Damoign, and he has the leadership to take our state forward," said Austin.

The other Conservative gubernatorial candidates have all endorsed Hoffa.

-----**Official Results**-----

Candidates	Residence	Votes	Percentage	Counties Won
Sid Hoffa	Victoria	420,298	19.91%	14
Robert Austin	Fairside	412,289	19.53%	7
Pat Leemore	Bragdon	393,622	18.65%	13
Brian Tyker	Riverton	312,283	14.79%	8
John DeGallio	Tolston	168,856	8.00%	0
Rob McCann	Gregorson	131,852	6.25%	6
Andrew Liang	Eastholm	121,851	5.77%	0
Kim Camden	Kinslow	112,587	5.33%	0
Rob Poldashi	Larche	37,418	1.77%	0
	Total	2,111,056
Ranked Choice Voting Results  --  Non-Binding
	Sid Hoffa	1,130,605	53.56%
	Robert Austin	980,451	46.44%

DeGallio drops out of Damoign governor's race, endorses Tyker

TOLSTON -- Another Conservative candidate has dropped out of the Damoign governor's race.

After the latest round of voting Tuesday, Assemblyman John DeGallio of Tolston announced he was ending his campaign.

"There is no way I can win the nomination at this point," he conceded in a small press conference outside his district office.

"But there are still four candidates left who have a shot at winning, and I want to help clear the way for Brian Tyker," said DeGallio.

Tyker is a young assemblyman from south-central Damoign. Both he and DeGallio are strong social and fiscal conservatives.

"While I respect Secretary [Bob] Austin, and I think he would make a great governor, I think Brian Tyker is the best choice to represent our party in December. He's young, he's got energy, he's got the ability to bring people together, and he has the ability to go toe-to-toe with Jenna Duvan," said DeGallio.

Sources close to DeGallio say he considered endorsing former National Security Secretary Bob Austin, but ultimately decided on Tyker.

DeGallio was less inclined to endorse former Governor Sid Hoffa or Assemblywoman Pat Leemore, both who are more socially moderate.

DeGallio's exit from the race does clear the way somewhat for Tyker, who will be the only social conservative in the race.

However, as of Tuesday night, 59% of the state's registered Conservative voters had already cast ballots, and Tyker remained in fourth place with 14.4 percent.

Austin remains in first place, with 18.9%, while Hoffa and Leemore follow with 17.4% and 17.1%, respectively.

DeGallio was in a distant fifth place with nine percent.

Businessman Rob McCann remains in the race and has ignored calls for him to drop out, even though he trails significantly with only seven percent.

State Rep. Andrew Liang, former Treasury Department official Kim Camden, and businessman Rob Poldashi have already ended their campaigns.

Liang endorsed Tyker, Camden is backing Leemore and Poldashi has thrown his support to McCann.

Though the majority of ballots have already been cast, with the race as close as it is, much could still change in the coming weeks as the remaining counties hold elections.

Convicted murderer set to receive death penalty, Monomi governor declines to grant clemency

TRIETON -- A convicted killer is slated to be put to death in Monomi Wednesday night.

Brutus A. Conlin, 39, is scheduled to receive a lethal injection at the Monomi State Prison in Lombard.

Death penalty opponents had urged Monomi Gov. Will Huxton to intervene and grant Conlin clemency, but a spokesperson for Huxton said the governor will not intervene.

"Gov. Huxton has reviewed Mr. Conlin's case and has determined there is not sufficient reason to warrant clemency in his case," said the governor's office.

Conlin was convicted of fatally shooting two clerks at a south Trieton convenience store in 1997 during a robbery. He later admitted to the crime and said he had no remorse.

He was sentenced to death by a Kingfisher County jury in 1998.

Multiple appeals to the Monomi Court of Appeals and the Federal Supreme Court were rebuffed.

The Federal Supreme Court declined to grant a stay Wednesday afternoon.

Conlin will be the first person to receive the death penalty in Monomi since 2016.

Liang, Camden drop out of Damoign governor's race

GREENEWOOD, Dmg. -- About a third of votes have been cast in the Damoign Conservative governor's primary race.


Fifteen of the state's 48 counties have voted so far, and the results have been disappointing for state Rep. Andrew Liang (Eastholm) and former Treasury official Kim Camden.

Both garnered just over 7 percent of the votes, far behind front-runners Bob Austin, Sid Hoffa, Pat Leemore and Brian Tyker.

Liang, a little-known state representative from Eastholm, announced he would end his campaign for governor and will instead seek the state's lieutenant governorship.

"The path the governorship is a very difficult one, but the path to becoming lieutenant governor is a lot more doable," said Liang, at a campaign rally in his hometown neighborhood of Nelly, Eastholm.

The 37-year-old, Chinese-Grassadellian brought a much-needed bit of diversity to the Conservative race. All other candidates are white, and only one woman is left in the race.

If Liang wins the CNS primary for lieutenant governor, he'll face incumbent Lt. Gov. Jeff Zeme (N) in December.

Also dropping out of the Conservative governor's race today was Kim Camden, who served in the Treasury Department under former President Dan Byelle.

Camden, 44, had never ran for office before. The Daintree mother of three was hoping her experience at the federal level would win her votes with pragmatic Conservatives who want a "nuts and bolts" governor.

"It just didn't turn our way," said Camden, at a small gathering with supporters in Daintree, an upscale suburb west of Grassadellia City.

Camden will end her campaign, and will instead consider running for the National Assembly or for secretary of state. She is also considering running for local office in the western suburbs.

"It didn't work out this time, but there are plenty of elections to come, plenty of races ahead, so this is not the end for me or for Andrew Liang by any stretch of the imagination," she said.

Neither Liang or Camden have said which candidate they will endorse.

With about a third of votes cast so far and 15 of the state's 48 counties having voted already, former National Security Secretary Bob Austin leads the race with 18%, followed closely by former Governor Sid Hoffa (17%), Assemblywoman Pat Leemore (15%) and Assemblyman Brian Tyker (14%).

Vote Totals - Damoign Conservative Gubernatorial Primary Election (34% of votes cast)

- Robert Austin     18%     127,741 votes
- Sid Hoffa            17%     120,488
- Pat Leemore       15%     108,704
- Brian Tyker        14%     103,126
- John DeGallio    11%       77,534 
- Andrew Liang      7%       51,971
- Kim Camden        7%       51,112
- Rob McCann        7%       47,485
- Rob Poldashi        3%       20,185

 

Brian Tyker says wife was 'not happy' after he joked about Jenna Duvan's sexy outfits

COLUMBUS, Dmg. -- Earlier this week at a Conservative debate, candidates for governor were asked about Damoign Governor Jenna Duvan's wardrobe.

A former model, Duvan is known to wear mini skirts, stilettos and tight blouses. Her outfits have drawn criticism from pro-family politicians, who say her clothing choices are inappropriate for a governor.

During the Conservative gubernatorial debate, Assemblyman Brian Tyker garnered attention when he jokingly said he had "no complaints" about Duvan's outfits and that she "looks great."

Women's rights activists called out Tyker for comments they say objectify women for their appearance.

"Brian Tyker and other male politicians belittle women when they evaluate them and judge them only on their appearance and what type of sexy clothing they wear," said Alanna Johnson, a prominent women's rights activist from New Upton.

Tyker was forced to address his comments today. Multiple reporters asked if he regretted his comments.

"Some people are saying your comments about Jenna Duvan's appearance and her outfits were sexist, demeaning to women and objectifying. Do you agree your comments were inappropriate and do you regret them?" reporter Danisha Rusha asked.

"My comments were stupid," Tyker admitted. "They were meant as a joke, but they were stupid. I shouldn't have made them."

His comments were not inappropriate, however, he said.

"I don't think they were objectifying or demeaning to women. All I meant was the governor is attractive and she dresses nicely. I'm a man. When I see attractive women, I notice. But my comments were meant with disrespect, they were meant to be a light-hearted joke," the assemblyman said.

Tyker's wife was "not happy" with his comments, however.

"She did not appreciate that part of the debate, and rightfully so. It was disrespectful to her. And for that I do regret what I said."

Tyker is not the first politician to be criticized for "sexist" comments related to Jenna Duvan.

Businessman John Brumley, a Nationalist who briefly flirted with running against Duvan in the NAT primary, came under fire in August 2019 for saying Damoign needed a governor with "less vanity" who "isn't focused on image and celebrity" but on the issues.

Allies of Duvan called out Brumley at the time for his comments, which they perceived to be sexist.

Duvan has said little about her wardrobe, only making jokes at campaign rallies.

"Is this outfit appropriate, what do you think?" she playfully asked the audience at a campaign rally in Eastholm last month.

The governor also raffled off a pair of her stilettos for charity last month. The name-brand, custom-designed shoes sold for $140,000 to an anonymous buyer.

Mercer Diego endorses Brian Tyker for Damoign governor

MATTINOW, Dmg. -- Damoign's most prominent Conservative has made an endorsement in the party's crowded field of gubernatorial candidates.

Mercer Diego, a former lieutenant governor and two-time failed candidate for governor, endorsed Assemblyman Brian Tyker over the weekend.

Tyker's campaign released a video on Facebook of the two men meeting at Tyker's home in Stoltschwin County, south of Grassadellia City.

In the video, the two are seen shaking hands, while Diego puts his arm around Tyker and offers praise for the young assemblyman.

"I've known Brian Tyker for years, he's a good man, a good husband, dad, and he will make a great governor for Damoign," says Diego.

Tyker thanked Diego for his support, calling him the "father of the Conservative Party in our state."

Though he lost two back-to-back races for governor, Diego remains immensely popular among Conservatives, many who feel he was robbed, as he narrowly lost both races to controversial NAT opponents.

Diego's endorsement is a major feather in Tyker's camp. There are currently nine candidates in the running for the CNS party's nomination for governor. A high-profile endorsement from a popular figure might help solidify Tyker's status as a major contender.

The front-runner in the race so far appears to be Assemblywoman Pat Leemore of Bragdon County.

Leemore is a noted moderate, and in a salty statement, a spokesman for her campaign said she never expected to receive Diego's endorsement.

"Quite frankly, Mercer Diego represents the past. He ran for governor twice and lost both times. If we want to look to the future, we should look to Pat Leemore and other pragmatic Conservatives instead of failed hardliners who alienate independents," said spokesman Jared Walsh.

Tyker, who is younger and more socially conservative, is among the top four candidates, polls show. Former National Security Secretary Robert Austin and businessman Rob McCann hold second and third place, respectively, according to recent polling.

Rounding out the top five is Assemblyman John DeGallio of Columbus.

Polls show former Governor Sid Hoffa is struggling to break into the top tier.

Diego's endorsement of Tyker is especially damning for Hoffa, who served as governor with Diego while the latter served as lieutenant governor.

Additionally, Hoffa enthusiastically supported Diego's first run for governor in 2012.

Hoffa was somewhat reluctant to support Diego when he ran a second time in 2016, but the former governor finally came around and campaigned for Diego.

"Mercer Diego endorsing Brian Tyker is a huge slap in the face to Sid Hoffa," said former Conservative Party official Brian Mitchell, who worked for the party during Hoffa's tenure.
"It's as if Mercer Diego has forgotten about all the work and campaigning and support Hoffa gave him over the last decade."

The two men were never close. Hoffa has long been a moderate, while Diego has been an outspoken social conservative.

Still, Mitchell said, the two men enjoyed a close friendship at one point, and they served well together.

"I think 2016 is when their relationship started to turn. Sid Hoffa waited until the very last second to endorse Mercer Diego. Hoffa wanted to see another candidate run instead, he was concerned Mercer would lose a second time around. And he did," said Mitchell.

Asked by reporters Monday night about the snub, Hoffa said Diego's endorsement is "his alone to make."

"Mercer has every right to endorse who he wants. Obviously, he feels another, lesser-known candidate is the better choice. I respectfully disagree with him. But that's the beauty of this country, we can disagree and have our own opinion," said Hoffa.

Diego released a statement also, saying through a spokesperson that he was throwing his support to Tyker because the assemblyman "champions conservative, family values, has the youth and energy to be governor, and will foster a pro-business environment in the state."

Jenna Duvan's wardrobe and sexism take center stage at Damoign CNS debate

COLUMBUS, Dam. -- If the Damoign Conservative gubernatorial debate was a fiesta, incumbent NAT Governor Jenna Duvan would have been the pinata.

Conservative candidates went after Duvan all night, as they sought to score political points and build political capital with Conservative voters in the run-up to the 2020 election.

Duvan is seeking re-election, the first governor allowed to do so since the 1980s after a recent and controversial amendment to the state's constitution.

And there's no shortage of Conservative candidates seeking to challenge her.

All nine gathered for their first debate in Columbus, a strongly conservative city in south-central Damoign.

They largely agreed on main policy points. All were critical of Duvan's leadership. All called out the state Nationalist Party as corrupt and unwilling to be bipartisan. All espoused tax cuts and a pro-business platform.

But the debate took a bizarre turn when moderator Alex Syncott, a local news anchor, asked Assemblywoman Pat Leemore if she approved of Jenna Duvan's wardrobe.

"Governor Duvan has been criticized by some people for wearing mini-skirts. They say it's inappropriate for a governor to wear clothing they consider to be provocative and suggestive. Do you approve of her clothing choices? Is it appropriate for a female governor to dress this way?" Syncott asked.

"I'm not really sure what that has to do with this debate," said a surprised Leemore. "We're here tonight to talk about issues. The economy, education, transportation, healthcare, the environment. I'm not sure what Jenna Duvan's dress selection has to do with being governor, but since you asked I'll answer it," she said, to a smattering of applause.

She then answered the question directly, saying it's important for a governor, male or female, to dress professionally.

"But if Governor Duvan wants to wear mini-skirts and low-cut tops, that's up to her. I wouldn't wear them, personally. But I'm not a young model in my thirties either," said Leemore, shrugging her shoulders, as the audience erupted in laughter.

She added that Duvan looks good. "

She has a fantastic body and she looks very chic and slender and attractive in her clothes. So if it looks good on you, then why not?"

Fellow female candidate Kim Camden, a former Federal Treasury official who served in the Byelle administration, was also asked the same question.

"I want to say first that I don't think it's fair that women are asked about their apparel and what they wear, while men get a free pass," said Camden. "It's indicative of the double-standard on this issue."

Nevertheless, Camden said it's important for female leaders to dress appropriately.

"I have three daughters, and when my little girls see the governor or a senator or an assemblywoman on the TV or the news, I want them to see a strong role model, who is dressed professionally and not in a way that objectifies the woman's body. As female politicians, we need to be mindful of the message that we send to young girls about body image and respect in the workplace."

None of the seven male candidates wanted to answer the same question posed to Leemore and Camden.

However, Assemblyman Brian Tyker chimed in, and joked that Duvan "looks great" and he had "no complaints" about her wardrobe.

The Conservative-friendly audience largely laughed at the episode, but some candidates, such as former National Security Director Robert Austin and businessmen Rob McCann and Rob Poldashi, expressed discomfort.

After the debate, Eva Magoto, a female news anchor who participated in the debate but did not ask questions pertaining to the topic, also spoke out.

"It doesn't matter what party you belong to, if you're a woman, you should never have your clothing and appearance dissected on live television," she tweeted.

Many viewers and Nationalist Party activists called out Brian Tyker for his comment.

"Cat-calling Jenna Duvan during a televised debate. I think we've reached a new level of doucheness," wrote one user on Twitter.

Another called Tyker out directly.

"Brian Tyker's comment at tonights (sic) debate is exactly what is wrong with male privilege and the male rape culture in this country," the tweet read.

Duvan herself did not comment on the matter, but a spokesperson for her campaign sent a written statement to the media.

"If Conservative candidates spent half as much time focusing on healthcare and education and fair housing as they do on Jenna Duvan's wardrobe, they might actually have something to offer the people of Damoign.

"Instead, they resort to cheap, sexist attacks on Governor Duvan. They can't assail her policies or her leadership, so they go after her for being a former model, for dressing nicely, for being attractive, and for wearing skirts and stilettos.

"The people of Damoign see right through this gender stereotyping. This type of behavior just confirms what we already know about the Conservative Party - they are stuck in the 1950s and want to take women back to the era of oppression and male-dominated culture."

Pat Leemore's campaign later released a statement on Facebook, saying the assemblywoman believes all women should be treated with dignity and not "judged for what they wear."


The other candidates, who largely stayed out of the controversy while on-stage, also spoke out after the debate ended.

"Our state is falling apart. The Nationalists have absolutely wrecked our tax system, our constitutional sanctity, our education system, our infrastructure. And we spent ten or fifteen minutes tonight during the debate talking about Jenna Duvan's skirts. I just think it's ridiculous. Where are our priorities?" asked Rob McCann, a businessman and political newcomer from southern Damoign.

"I don't think the voters care about what Jenna Duvan wears," said businessman Rob Poldashi, also a political newcomer, from Larche County.

State Rep. Andrew Liang, from Eastholm, said that portion of the debate was "more like a celebrity gossip show."


Assemblyman John DeGallio voiced a similar sentiment, and also impressed reporters with his knowledge of reality TV.

"This isn't 'Project Runway.' It's not 'Say Yes To The Dress' or 'What Not To Wear.' This is the governorship of Damoign that we're talking about, said DeGallio.

Former Grassadellia City Mayor Sid Hoffa tried to avoid the issue altogether.

"I think debates should focus on the issues, not on personalities and the personal lives of the candidates," said Hoffa, declining to elaborate.

Notorious killer paroled by Damoign Parole Board, prompting backlash

ELLSBURY, Damoign -- One of Damoign's most notorious murderers was released from prison today by the state's parole board.

Dennis Edward Murphy was released from the Farris Creek Correctional Center southeast of Grassadellia City Tuesday afternoon.

Murphy, age 78, was granted a medical release due to terminal cancer.

He will live with his nephew at an undisclosed location in the state, according to the Damoign Department of Corrections.

Murphy was convicted in 1977 of killing five prostitutes in east Grassadellia City over a two-year period.

The killings were particularly violent. Two of his victims were strangled, two were stabbed, and one shot.

All five victims' bodies were mutilated after death.

While Murphy did take money and belongings of the victims, police do not believe robbery was a motive. The murders were deemed to be thrill-killings.

Police at the time said Murphy may have additional unknown victims.

Murphy was convicted of all five murders and originally sentenced to death, but in 1998, a state judge overturned the death sentence on procedural technicalities during Murphy's trial. He was then issued a life prison term.

Murphy's attorneys say their client has dementia and has only months to live after being diagnosed with lung cancer. He requires 24-hour care and cannot live alone, they say.

As part of the conditions of his release, Murphy will not be allowed to leave the state of Damoign. He must check in weekly with a parole officer. He cannot live close to schools, libraries, public parks or day care centers.

His family celebrated his release, thanking the parole board for allowing Murphy to live out his final days in the company and care of loved ones.

But his release spurred intense anger from the victims' families and from Conservative and Nationalist politicians alike.

"My mom didn't get to live out her final days in the company of family. She lived her final moments chained to a bed tortured to death by this monster," said Sarah Goos, whose mother Emily Daughten was Murphy's second victim.

Tough-on-crime politicians also lambasted the parole board's decision.

"It's unfathomable that a serial killer, who not only murdered innocent women but tortured and mutilated their bodies, could be released on compassionate grounds," said state Senator Joe Bruno, a Conservative from Tolston.

"What does it say to the victims' families and to the people of our state when an unelected board releases violent criminals back into the community? Where is the justice for the victims?" state Sen. Steve Ralman, Conservative from east Kentwick, said in a radio interview Tuesday night.

Nationalist state Senator Hank Colland, who represents Evanter, was also dismayed.

"I understand that we want to be compassionate to ailing incarcerants, and we have compassion for those who are suffering from debilitating diseases, but that has to be weighed against the gravity of the crimes the person committed," he told the STAR Network's Joe Candolla.

"I think in this case, this individual, while he may be very ill and may not have much time left to live, he really should not be released. He may not be much of a threat to the community in his current state, being very ill. But it's the principle of it. The victims' families deserve justice. They were told this man would be in prison for life and now that promise has been broken, and the pain of those crimes comes flooding back.

Governor Jenna Duvan (N) has not commented on Murphy's release. Her office declined to comment, though a spokesperson said Duvan would speak on the matter later this week.

Duvan is a former prosecutor who sent many convicted criminals to death row. She remains supportive of the death penalty in extreme cases, however, under her administration, executions have slowed.

Conservative politicians jumped all over the issue on social media Tuesday, saying the decision to release Murphy proves Duvan, who is seeking re-election in December, is soft on crime.

"This is sadly what the Nationalist Party has become today. Nationalist politicians like Jenna Duvan give more rights to convicted serial killers than they do to the hard-working citizens and taxpayers of our state," the Damoign Conservative Party said in a post on Facebook.

Rosamond Burkes: Young Black men need better role models

KOLLANDON, Ans. -- Another debate, another controversy surrounding Nationalist candidate Rosamond Burkes.

The wealthy, elderly businesswoman, who is running for Ansleigha governor, is known for her controversial comments about race.

During a governor debate in 2016, she called Black Lives Matter protesters "thugs" and said police were right to use force to bring them under control at violent demonstrations.

This year, she's seeking the governorship again, and again, at Monday night's debate in Kollandon, Burkes ventured into controversial territory with her latest remarks on race.


"Today in this country, we have young Black boys who grow up without a dad, their mothers are working two or three jobs to provide for their family, because dad walked out or is in prison. So these young boys grow up with no supervision, they turn to the streets and the gang culture, which is all they've got, because they don't have that family support they need.

"And then their role models are rap artists, who are thugs and drug addicts and they write songs about shooting people, they write lyrics calling women 'bitches' and 'whores' and 'sluts.'

"Young black boys grow up in this sort of environment, and then we wonder why they're angry, why they're violent, why they hate police, why they deal drugs, why they end up in prison, why they're abusive toward women."

"When you have no dad at home and mom's working multiple jobs and all the older boys on your street are dealing drugs and doing drive-bys and pimping girls, and your idols you look up to are rap singers who espouse violence and degrade women, it's clear why young Black men have run-ins with police and have higher crime rates. It makes sense why young Black women have so many children out of wedlock and are on welfare. It's not rocket science here," said Burkes.

Moderator Jason Jones pushed back, challenging Burkes to offer evidence that young Black men are more prone to criminal activity.

She dodged the question.

"I'm not saying that these problems only exist in the Black community. They don't, they exist in Latino communities and Arab communities and White Communities and Indigenous communities. I'm not picking on Black people here, but I am saying that the Black community needs better role models for their young men.

"We shouldn't be glorifying these rap artists who do drugs and shoot people and violate women. We shouldn't be celebrating these guys and lifting them up in our society. They're not heroes. They're not worth celebrating. They're thugs. They're gangsters. They're pigs.

"Anybody who talks like that to a woman and treats a woman that way is a disgusting pig in my book.

 She continued.

"I'll tell you what Jason, if one of those thugs walked up to me with his pants falling off his butt, smelling like marijuana, and called me one of those obscene words, I'd shove one of my heels up his sorry ass so fast he won't even see it coming.

"He better hope his buddies are there to help him, because he'll need help walking when I'm done with him."

There was a mix of raucous laughter and disbelief at that last specific exchange, but most of her remarks were met with confused and disapproving looks from her fellow candidates, and a small spattering of applause from the audience, who were on the edge of their seats during her seemingly off-the-cuff commentary.

"I'm not quite sure where to begin after that," said moderator Dick Clemson, a local TV News anchor from Kollandon.

"There's a lot to unpack in what you just said there, Ms. Burkes," added Clemson's anchor partner, Kate Crispell.

Churchtown Mayor Paul Biddington raised his hand, asking to speak.

Turning to Burkes, Biddington admonished her words.

"I'd like to go on the record and say that what you just said, Rosamond, was filled with stereotypes and dog-whistle phrases, it's not based on facts, it's based on fear and the fear-mongering that White elites have been doing for so long in this country," he said to wide applause from the audience. "And I want everyone up on this stage to reject what she just said."

Fellow candidate Becky Grael, speaker of the State House of Representatives, shook her head in mutual disbelief and disapproval.

"It's really, really disappointing that we have a candidate in this race who is falling for and spewing these racist talking points," said Grael. "There is no room on this stage, or in this party, for this kind of racism. If that's the kind of campaign you're going to run, you're in the wrong party."

Again, resounding applause.

Moderate businessman Russ Hawley was less critical and more diplomatic in his response. Courting many of the same moderate and conservative voters Burkes appeals to, he was more cautious in his criticism.

"I think you made some valid points, Rosamond. We do have a crisis of family support and poverty and drugs in many of our minority neighborhoods. But there are many reasons for this, and to point at one specific group and repeat stereotypes and unfounded, unsupported claims about increased crime rates, increased predisposition to crime and abuse, that's not true, it's not the temperament we need in our next governor, and it's not representative of the values of the Nationalist party," said Hawley.

After the debate, the Ansleigha Nationalist Party released an official statement condemning Burkes' comments.

"The ANP does not support or condone the racist and misleading comments that Rosamond Burkes made at Monday night's debate. The ANP fully rejects Ms Burke's words. We value the Black community. We recognize that systemic racism and historic oppression continue to hold back the Black community, as well as other minority groups, and we celebrate the leaders in the Black community and our Black celebrities who have fought for equality and racial justice."

Anticipating the fallout from her comments, the Burkes campaign released a fundraising email directly after the debate.

"Rosamond spoke the truth about problems in the Black community. She said what the politically-correct politicians are too afraid to say. It's a tough topic, but she's not afraid to confront it. And now the Nationalist Party elites, the liberal establishment and the "Fake News" media are attacking her for saying the truth."

The email then asks readers to donate to the Burkes campaign and provides a link to her website.

"Will you stand with Rosamond and fight back against the political correctness and stupidity of the party elites? If we can't have freedom of speech and speak openly and honestly about society's problems, we don't live in a free country anymore, we live in a censored dictatorship. Help Rosamond continue the fight against political correctness and the elites!"

The fundraising email was sent out 45 minutes after the debate ended, prompting some critics to speculate if Burkes planned ahead of time to make the controversial comments at the debate.

A spokesperson for her campaign denied that claim, saying Rosamond "always speaks off the cuff."

Burkes is known for her outspoken, unfiltered and colorful comments.

A lifelong Nationalist, as a young woman, she was an ardent feminist and anti-war protester.

Now, as a candidate for governor, she remains a strong feminist and anti-war activist, but over the years, she has become more right-wing on issues of race and law and order.

Some have suggested Burkes' views would be more welcomed in the Conservative Party, but she's been openly critical of Conservatives too, in addition to her own party.

Despite being asked to pledge to support whoever wins the NAT nomination, Burkes has declined to do so and has hinted she may quit the NAT and run as an Independent or third-party candidate.

Should she choose to do so, it's unclear which party would be more adversely affected by her candidacy. Polls show she appeals to working-class Nationalists from rural areas, so she could steal votes from the NAT. However, she draws widespread support from many Conservative voters too, which could siphon votes from the CNS candidate.

The most recent poll showed Burkes in fourth place in the NAT primary race, however, since that poll, several candidates, including Attorney General Jon Erickson, have dropped out. No polls featuring the four remaining candidates have been conducted yet.

Al Paccioli brings down the house at Veroche CNS debate: 'I'm a tough son of a bitch'

SOUTHWICK, Ver. -- There were a lot of laughs at the first Conservative gubernatorial debate in Veroche tonight.

The stage was crowded as all nine candidates - all men and all white except for one - hashed out their positions on a variety of issues.

But the topic that dominated the evening was bashing incumbent NAT Governor Tom Harper.

Mac Griffin, 74, the mayor of Red Leaf and current front runner in the race, gave Harper credit for an improving economy, but said it could be "even better" under Conservative leadership.

Multiple candidates, including Lanakis Mayor Dick Scholinger, cited the high cost of living as contradictory to the state's strong economy.

Scholinger was interrupted by moderator Greg Jones, who questioned if the mayor was partially responsible for the high cost of living in his own city.

"It's happened on your watch, while you've been in office," said Jones.

The "exorbitant" cost of living has been a problem for decades, Scholinger said.

"It preceded my time in office, and quite frankly, it preceded Tom Harper's time in office too. This is a problem that started a long time ago and no one at the state level has done anything to fix it."

Scholinger also took credit for reducing taxes and cutting regulation as mayor, something businessman Bill Enos took issue with.

"No you didn't, Dick. You raised taxes and increased regulation. I know because I've built many buildings in Lanakis and done lots of real estate transactions there. Your city is a mess," said Enos, a political newcomer and self-funded billionaire candidate.

Gen. Greggory Jordan, also a political newcomer and the former director of the Trewallen Military Academy, was asked if his lack of civilian employment would hinder his success as governor, if elected.

"Serving in the military provides you with a lot of useful life experience. It teaches you how to lead, how to manage, how to handle conflict, how to delegate, how to solve a problem. The military has more than prepared me to be governor," said Jordan.

But the comment that drew the most laughs and interest of the night was from state Senator Artemis "Al" Paccioli (pronounced "Puh-chull-ee").

"We need a tough candidate to beat Tom Harper," Paccioli said, pausing momentarily. "And I'm a tough son of a bitch," he said, chuckling.

"And no, I'm not in the mafia," he added.

His colorful comments were met with raucous laughter and applause from the audience and from his fellow candidates on stage.

 Later on, libertarian-leaning Assemblyman Vaughn Laudney of Boyervosse told the crowd "I'm a tough son of a gun too," referencing Paccioli's earlier comments.

Paccioli interjected. "It doesn't sound as good when you say it," he said to laughs.

The candidate with the least speaking time was state Sen. Mark Holworth of Dishpry, an eastern suburb of Lanakis.

Holworth has served more time in the Veroche state legislature than any of the other candidates. He was asked by moderator Greg Jones if his legislative experience made him better prepared to be governor than his rivals.

"I think so. A big part of being governor is knowing the key players, knowing who the important state representatives and state senators are, and knowing the important factions in our state legislature. I know all those people because I've been working with them for years. I think that gives me a leg up," said Holworth, who has struggled to raise his profile amid bigger-name candidates.

Collettasville Mayor Tom Settler was asked what he would bring to the governorship, if elected.

"A backbone," he said, to applause. "We need a committed Conservative, not a wishy-washy Conservative who will change positions and cave to the NAT," said the little-known and low-polling Settler.

The evening drew to a close with more laughs, as Jones addressed Don Christaman, an assemblyman from Touleville in north-central Veroche.

"Assemblyman Christaman, you received the least support of any candidate in the most recent poll, only 2.5 percent. You've ran for statewide office multiple times and failed each time. Why are you running for governor then? Your track record isn't good. Do you really think you have a chance at winning the governorship?"

Some laughs and murmurs from the audience were audible, as the assemblyman paused to answer.

"Well thanks for that question, Greg," said Christaman, half-laughing and half-annoyed.

"I think it's an unfair question, especially since Dick Scholinger also has ran for statewide office multiple times and failed too. You didn't ask him that question, you only asked me, but I'll go ahead and answered it since you asked."

"I absolutely think I can win. I wouldn't be running if I didn't think I could. And unlike some of the guys up on this stage, I'm not a wavering Conservative. I'm not a moderate. I'm a true, strong Conservative, and my Conservative values will always stay the same and stay true. I won't compromise my beliefs just to get elected."

The much-watched debate showed, however, that the Veroche Conservative Party will have to pick between a more moderate, centrist candidate or a hard-line, right-wing nominee.

Veroche is a liberal state, so more partisan candidate will likely have more difficulty winning in December.

Party leaders are privately hoping a more centrist candidate such as Griffin, Scholinger, Jordan or Paccioli will win over the more provocative and right-wing Enos, Laudney, Settler or Christaman.

Few endorsements have been made so far in the race.

Former CNS nominee Brad Davidson has declined to make an endorsement yet, though sources close to him say he would be satisfied with any of the candidates except the outspoken and bellicose Bill Enos.


Several right-wing activists and personalities have endorsed Enos, who has been compared to US President Donald Trump for his demeanor and politically-incorrect commentary.

Despite his reputation as a loud-mouth, Enos didn't dominate the night, however.

That honor goes to Al Paccioli, the little-known state senator and owner of a dry cleaners business from Deniece.

After the debate, Paccioli was trending on Google, Yahoo and Twitter.

His campaign immediately sent out a fundraising email after the debate, capitalizing on his moment in the spotlight.

Isaak Slooter will not run for re-election in 2020

NESTLEY, NP -- Senator Isaak Slooter, a Conservative, will not seek re-election in 2020, he announced today.

The two-term senator, first elected in 2008 and easily re-elected in 2014, does not want to be a career politician, he said.

"I never came to Mavocke intending to stay here until I die. I have other plans, other things that are important in my life," he said in an interview in his office, announcing his decision.

"I have been so honored to be a senator for the state of New Portsmouth, and I'm proud of the work I've done with my colleagues here from both parties. But it's time to pass the torch, it's time for someone else to represent our state."

A prominent Evangelical Christian, Slooter, age 56, has been a strong social conservative on issues like abortion and gay marriage.

However, he's been moderate on issues like the environment, immigration and health care, and has frequently voted with Nationalists.

His decision to step down means Conservatives will have an open seat in a notoriously competitive battleground state.

No candidates have announced their candidacy yet on either side, but both parties expect a flood of potential contenders.

Slooter did not say what his post-Senate plans are.

"I'm still figuring that out right now, so I don't have an answer for you. But I will enjoy spending more time with my family, that's going to be my top priority."

His fellow New Portsmouth senators reacted with surprise but admiration.

"Isaak Slooter has served our state for the last twelve years, and he's done so with integrity, kindness, and a spirit of collaboration," said Conservative Sen. Jacqueline Bosseau, in a written statement.

Nationalist Senator Jean Larae Dowd praised Slooter as "highly effective at bringing both parties together."

"Often when there's an impasse in the Senate, it's Senator Slooter who is bringing the opposing sides together and trying to negotiate compromise, and that will be missed," said Dowd.

Democratic-Reformist Senator Ayden Benning, himself a former Nationalist and Conservative before ending up in the DR camp, said Slooter will be missed for his positive attitude and his bipartisanship.

"The man is genuine, he's sincere, like many of us, he came here to Mavocke to make a difference and to make our country stronger. And he's done that. I will miss working with him," said Benning.

Leandra Kemmes in strong position heading into 2020

MAINE CITY, Ara. -- The 2020 elections are shaping up to bring many competitive races.

But Armana Governor Leandra Kemmes, a first-term Nationalist, is likely to coast to re-election, according to a recent series of opinion polls.

Kemmes, a moderate Nationalist, remains popular in the Coalwood state.

She has high approval from Nationalists, Independents, and even many Conservatives.

Kemmes has steered away from contentious social issues and has focused on bread-and-butter issues like the economy, transportation and coastal erosion mitigation.

Under her leadership, the state's economy has grown, primarily in the southern half, where three-quarters of the state's population resides.

And the governor has avoided major missteps and gaffes.

Her strong popularity has discouraged prominent Conservatives from challenging her in the 2020 election.

Former Assemblyman Dave Charm, who ran against Kemmes in 2016, has ruled out a rematch.

Former Senator Dana Glow, who narrowly lost his Senate seat in 2016, has also passed on a bid.

Only three long-shot Conservative candidates have expressed interest in challenging Kemmes.

Mike Holt, who narrowly lost a Senate race in 2016 to Nationalist Emily Burkhart, is said to be considering a run.

Tom Ungerhart, mayor of Otter Creek, a suburb of Mavocke, is also said to have his eye on the governorship.

And finally, businessman Bob Hefner of Westhorpe is interested.

But polls conducted last week for the Conservative Party show that Kemmes would trounce all three contenders.

Kemmes would crush Holt 57-39 percent. Ungerhart performs better against Kemmes but still comes far short; she would defeat him 52-45 percent.

Polling on Hefner is not done yet, but an earlier poll from November found more than 80% of respondents had never heard of Hefner.

In short, no Conservative candidate comes close to beating Kemmes in polls.

Ungerhart has the best shot, but still has a ways to go.

The moderate mayor is well-known in the Mavocke area but struggles with name recognition in the rest of the state.

His more centrist views appeal to independents, but Leandra Kemmes is also a centrist. The poll finds independent voters breaking even for both candidates.

There is one upside for the Conservatives, however.

The party commissioned a poll on the 2020 Senate race. Incumbent Serap Figaori (N) is up for re-election, and in a hypothetical match up against Conservative Andy Fulbright, Figaori trails 46% to 50% for Fulbright.

Fulbright is a political newcomer and the son of former senator Dale Fulbright.

He has yet to announce his candidacy, but the positive polling results are said to have convinced the younger Fulbright he can win against a popular but divisive NAT incumbent.

Privately, however, top CNS party leaders are urging the party to write off Armana and invest resources in other states where they have a better chance of winning.

"There is no way we can beat Leandra Kemmes," said one top party strategist, who asked for anonymity because discussing the party's internal strategy might jeopardize business, told GNN.

"Any Conservative who thinks they can win against Leandra Kemmes is either not very smart or smoking something," the strategist added.

Kemmes' campaign declined to comment for this article, but state NAT party leaders expressed strong confidence.

"We are fortunate to have an immensely popular governor, Leandra Kemmes, and we're confident that Senator Serap Figaori will also win re-election," said Vanita Bynum, deputy director of the state NAT party.

A spokesman for Figaori said the progressive senator, who was first elected on a strong left-wing wave, will continue to put progressive values first.

"Senator Figaori is not going to change his positions or moderate his views just to win an election. He is who he is and he will stand up for the progressive values Armanans care about," said spokesman Garrity Hanton.

Tony Ritonio: Liberal politicians trash Donald Trump to fire up left-wing supporters

LAMBERTH, Kal. -- Since losing re-election in the 2018 election, former Kalnier governor Tony Ritonio has largely kept silent and stayed out of the headlines.

After his shocking defeat, Ritonio went back to overseeing his restaurant and real estate company. He declined offers to appear on national television and repeatedly rebuffed interview requests from top media outlets.

But Ritonio has recently re-emerged.

Over the weekend, he penned a column for the Grassadellian Media Foundation, a Conservative-aligned news organization.

In his op-ed, Ritonio called US President Donald Trump a "dumb ass" who "probably deserves to be impeached."

But despite Trump's abrasive personality, the US president is "right on the issues."

"Donald Trump himself is a cringe-worthy person. But many of his policies are actually good," wrote Ritonio.

He pointed to Trump's pro-business and tax-cut policies.

"The man knows how to grow an economy, and he's delivering a strong economy for the American people," Ritonio wrote.


Trump was right to end the US-Iran nuclear deal, Ritonio said, but Trump's order to assassinate Iran's top general Qassem Soleimani was "not well thought out."

"Does he lie? Yes. Does he play to people's most basic, nationalist, right-wing instincts? Yes. Does he belittle his opponents and act like a child? Yes," said Ritonio.

"But he is restoring the American economy, he's restoring America's position in the world, and he's cracking down on illegal immigration. These are three issues that our Grassadellian leaders have failed to do," wrote Ritonio.

As for Trump's impeachment and his Ukraine scandal, Ritonio said Trump "almost certainly acted unethically, if not illegally."

"But left-wing Grassadellian politicians such as President Jim McCaren, Damoign Senator Deborah Kay, and others, have attacked Donald Trump to advance their own agendas," he wrote.

"Grassadellia's liberal elites are injecting themselves into US politics because trashing Donald Trump wins them points with their left-wing supporters."

"We need to stay out of US politics. We have enough drama of our own here in this country," wrote Ritonio.

When asked for a response to Ritonio's column, a Collester spokesman gave a curt response.

"President McCaren will not take foreign policy advice from a one-term governor who has no foreign policy experience," said spokesman Matt Haber.

Sen. Deborah Kay (N-Damoign) was unaware of Ritonio's mentioning of her in his column, but once informed, the senator said on Twitter that "like everything Tony Ritonio says, his latest column is irrelevant."

Ritonio's column comes the same weekend that he signed a contract with the STAR Network and with the Chamberlain Network as a contributor.

His recent return to the political dialogue has many speculating the former governor is preparing for another run for office in 2022.

Ritonio has repeatedly declined to say whether he will seek a rematch in 2022 with Nationalist Nick Hall.

Elizabeth Graham will run for N. Ceona governor, Cozier may seek Senate seat

LAWTON, N. Ceona -- After months of speculation, sources close to North Ceona Senator Elizabeth Graham say she has made a decision on her political future.

Graham, a moderate Nationalist, will seek the state's open governorship in 2020, friends close to the senator say.

Graham had been toying with running for governor for years but finally sees 2020 as her opportunity.

With term-limited Governor Tom Cozier (Conservative) leaving his post, the seat will be open and up for grabs.

And should Graham lose the race for governor, she can still keep her Senate seat, which expires in 2024.

A strong candidate known for her bipartisanship and avoidance of divisive social issues, Graham would be a strong contender for governor.

North Ceona is a Conservative-leaning state, but Graham's centrist record plays well.

She will have to get past one major primary opponent, however.

Former state Attorney General John Ennis, who unsuccessfully challenged Cozier in 2016, is said to be considering a second run for governor in 2020.

The Conservative side is less clear.

Lt. Governor Lyle McDuggery declined to run for governor and will instead retire in 2020.

Secretary of State Bill Stacey has announced his intention to run.

But two other top-tier Conservative candidates are still considering running for governor too.

Former Senator Pete Deetch, who was ousted from office in 2018 after making racist comments, is "seriously considering" a run for governor, sources close to him say.

Another former senator, Ty Jaimeson, is also mulling a bid.

Both men would be formidable candidates, should they choose to run.

Recent polling from the University of North Ceona has shown intriguing results.

Bill Stacey is relatively even with John Ennis (48% to 50%) and with Elizabeth Graham (48% to 49%).

Those polls also found Pete Deetch trailing both Ennis (44% to 53%) and Graham (44% to 54%).

Ty Jaimeson, however, crushes Elizabeth Graham 53% to 44% and leads Ennis 52% to 45%, respectively.

Meanwhile, outgoing Governor Tom Cozier is considering his political future.

Sources close to him say he is weighing a run for Senate, potentially challenging Nationalist incumbent Anthony Campanelli, who is up for re-election in 2020.

A recent poll found Cozier leading Campanelli 51%-47% in a hypothetical match-up.

Conservative incumbent Ken Estall is also up for re-election in 2020, though no top-name Nationalists have emerged to oppose him.

Friends of Pete Deetch say the former senator may opt against a gubernatorial bid and run for the Senate again; he'll take whichever path he thinks he's most likely to win.

No matter what happens, North Ceona won't be the quiet, sleepy state in 2020 that it usually is during election season.

Mona Rodgers will seek third term as governor, may face tight race

WELCHFORD, Roddenshire -- Governor Mona Rodgers will seek an unprecedented third term in 2020, she announced Thursday.

Rodgers is finishing up her seventh year in office, and and while Roddenshire has no term limits for governors, it's customary for governors to only serve two consecutive four-year terms and then step down to allow for a new successor.

But the popular governor will run for re-election in 2020, she announced at a press conference Thursday afternoon at the state capitol.

While she remains popular, especially among Nationalists and progressives, her pitch for a third term is expected to galvanize Roddenshire Conservatives, who have long been locked out of power in the state's capitol, Welchford.

Conservatives have never come close to winning the governorship. In 2012, Rodgers trounced Lacarthy businessman Jon Cortano 61-39 percent. In a rematch four years later, he improved but she still beat him 58-42 percent.

However, Roddenshire's demographics have changed in recent years, with an influx of immigrants, particularly Asian and Hispanic.

And recent polling by the state's Conservative Party shows Cortano essentially tied with Rodgers.

Cortano performs strongly in rural areas and in working and middle class neighborhoods, while Rodgers does well with high-income and older voters.

Mavocke Mayor Tom Frederickson, a more moderate Conservative, leads Rodgers by two percentage points, according to the poll.

And Senator Frank Traetori of Warnick ties Rodgers too.

Conservatives say while Roddenshire's economy is doing well, it's largely due to outside factors that don't involve Rodgers. And voters are weary of her leadership.

"The polls we conducted show that voters are ready for new leadership. They're ready for new blood. They're tired of the same old Nationalist politicians running the show in Welchford. They're ready for a new chapter," said Tom Fuller, an executive board member of the state's Conservative Party.

Rodgers' campaign dismissed the polls, saying they are a "partisan pipe-dream."

"The fact is, Roddenshireans are happy with Mona Rodgers' positive leadership for our state. The economy is booming, education is doing well in our state, and people have a high quality of life," said spokesman Jared Dunn.

So far, the only confirmed candidate for the Conservatives is Cortano. Despite losing twice, his campaign says the 2020 race will be different.

"We have different demographics, we have several wealthy donors backing us this time unlike the previous campaigns, and people are tired of Mona Rodgers and more importantly they're tired of the Nationalist Party monopolizing our state government," said John Watkins, the Cortano campaign director.

Cortano, who grew up in a middle-class Italian-Grassadellian home in Lacarthy, will appeal to middle-class and working-class voters, his campaign said. He will focus on improving the economy, lowering taxes, alleviating traffic congestion, and cleaning up state government.

Roddenshire's economy is doing well, but it has some of the highest taxes in the nation. And sandwiched between Grassadellia City, the nation's largest metro area, and Mavocke, the national capitol, it has some of the worst automobile traffic in the country too.

Rodgers, who never married and has no children, said she plans to continue her focus on education and mitigating regional issues like Mavocke-Grassadellia City high-speed rail and sea ferry service between Roddenshire's southeast coast and Cape Joyner, Damoign.

Almone: North Korea might get 'Christmas gift' of its own from another country

MAVOCKE -- North Korea threatened the United States again this week, saying the US should expect a "Christmas gift."

North Korea's Deputy Foreign Minister Ri Thae Song warned the US on state television, saying "it is entirely up to the US what Christmas gift it will select."

The thinly-veiled threat is "bold and stupid," Donna Almone told the GBC.

Almone, Grassadellia's Foreign Affairs Secretary, said North Korea should be careful about throwing out threats.

"North Korea keeps poking the bear. They keep throwing out these threats to the United States and other countries, and I would say to North Korea and Kim Jong Un, you really should be careful about bandying about threats," said Almone in an interview with the GBC's Kristen Kelly.

"If you keep poking the bear and provoking other countries for long enough, one of these times, they might just give you a 'Christmas gift' you don't expect."

Following policy of previous administrations, Almone has taken a tough stance on North Korea since taking over as Foreign Affairs Secretary.

She previously called North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un a "wannabe thug" and a "privileged despot."

Earlier this year, she said in a press conference that North Korea was "all bark and no bite," but she has since said the rogue, hermit country needs to be "reined in" and "taken seriously."

North Korea has previously hurled colorful insults at Almone, calling her "a desperate woman" and "a cow being lead to slaughter."

The communist regime has also insulted Grassadellian President Jim McCaren, calling him "a buffoon" and describing him as having "the I.Q. of a small, disabled child."

Durick trails CNS opponents in Wilkonshire governor's race

CHRISTON, Wilk. -- He won by a sliver of the vote in the 2016 election, and now Wilkonshire Governor Tom Durick (pronounced "Dure-rick") is facing even steeper odds going into his 2020 re-election race.

In 2016, Durick eventually became governor after weeks of recounting. He barely edged out Christon Mayor Tara Hadley (C).

Now Hadley is running again, and a recent Insiders poll shows Hadley leading Durick by three points, 49% to 46%, respectively.

Durick also trails Conservative political newcomer Charlie Dunn by an even larger margin, 44%-53%, respectively.

Dunn has never run for office before. He owns an office supply company in Teaupederie.

Durick has the advantage in the money race. He has $1.3 million on hand as of December 1. Hadley has $800,000 and Dunn has not yet filed a report, so his financial status is unclear.

Wilkonshire is a battleground state, with a relatively even number of CNS and NAT voters.

The poll found Durick performing best in the liberal stronghold of Bradford, the state's second-largest city. He also does well in the state capital Provincetown and in the southern suburbs of Christon.

Hadley and Dunn both have the clear edge in the state's largest city Christon and its suburbs. The Conservative candidates also receive strong support in the southern city of Petersboro, as well as Oak Valley and Jaffling in the western half of the state.

The poll found the state's northeast corner is virtually evenly split between the two political parties.

White House placed angry phone call to Collester over Almone nomination

MAVOCKE -- When President Jim McCaren nominated former POG Governor Donna Almone to be the next Foreign Affairs Secretary, he got push-back from some members of Congress.

But McCaren also got complaints from an unlikely source: the President of the United States.

Phone records and aides to McCaren and Almone confirmed that US President Donald J. Trump called Collester the day after Almone was nominated for the position.


Trump spoke directly with McCaren, with Almone and a handful of other officials listening in.

The US President expressed his dissatisfaction with Almone, who has frequently and publicly criticized Trump in the past.

Trump told McCaren he should rescind Almone's nomination and pick someone else for the top job at Foreign Affairs.

"With all due respect, Mr. President, I am not going to pick someone else. Donna Almone is who I chose and I am going to stick with that decision. I have the utmost confidence in her," McCaren told Trump.

Collester did not release the full transcript from the call, including Trump's verbatim comments.

But sources say Trump was upset and told McCaren picking Almone was a mistake.

In a meeting last month with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Almone said she told Pompeo privately that she would be fair toward Trump and his administration when working with the United States.

"I told Secretary Pompeo that when he and President Trump are right on the issues, I will speak up and join with them. And when President McCaren and I feel the Americans are wrong on the issue, we will speak up about that as well," said Almone, recalling the conversation.

Before she took over her new job as Foreign Affairs Secretary, Almone criticized Trump for his positions on climate change and immigration. She also condemned his use of personal attacks and views toward women.

Asked if she thought Trump, Pompeo and other officials in the Trump administration would treat her fairly, Almone said she hoped so.

"I don't want to be mistreated for being a woman. Whether it's by a foreign government or by someone in our own country. I shouldn't be looked down upon because I'm a woman. No woman should have to deal with that kind of sexism in this day and age," said Almone. "But I also don't want to be treated with kid gloves. I want to be treated like everyone else, like all the men. I want my peers and counterparts from other countries to be straight up and honest with me and to treat me fairly but with dignity."

McCaren said Almone is "just as tough and competent and capable as any man" in a similar role.

"Donna is an amazing foreign secretary, and she will do as good if not better a job than any male politician will," McCaren said.

McCaren also issued a stinging rebuke to Trump, saying "no foreign government or foreign leader will ever dictate who I can or cannot nominate to my cabinet. That is my decision. Grassadellia is a sovereign country and we will conduct our business on our own terms. We will not be influenced or swayed by foreigners."

GNN contacted the White House for comment on this story but received no response.

DelLorean to challenge Ralston in 2020 Senate race

KOEURN, Ansleigha -- Nationalists have recruited a top-tier candidate to take on the top Conservative in the Senate.

Senate Minority Leader Jon Ralston (C-Ansleigha) is up for re-election in 2020, and Nationalists have been eager to oust him from office.

They will get their chance in the 2020 election, when his Senate seat is up for grabs.

Today, top state NAT party leaders confirmed former Senator Carol DelLorean (pronounced Dell-Lory-On) will run against Ralston.

DelLorean previously represented Ansleigha in the Senate from 2011-2017. She was defeated by a sliver in the 2016 election by Conservative Ellie Higgins.

The former senator has not officially announced her candidacy, and but party leaders and friends of DelLorean have confirmed she will run.

Her candidacy means Ralston, an outspoken Conservative, will likely face a tough re-election battle in 2020.

DelLorean is well-known in the state, is wealthy and well-connected.

An ardent liberal, she is somewhat divisive but articulate and can go toe-to-toe with Ralston.

Both are strong campaigners and both have strong personalities, making for an epic race.

A spokeswoman for DelLorean declined to comment.

A spokesman for Ralston's campaign responded with sarcasm, saying the minority leader would welcome DelLorean's candidacy.

"If she wants to run, great!" said spokesman Joshua Isaacs. "If Carol DelLorean wants to run on her record of big government, unlimited taxes and spending, and failed, radical social policy, our campaign would love to stand against her."