Saturday, April 28, 2007

Labor Confused

The Capital Courier -

Inside sources report confusion within the ranks of the National Workers Union and the Franklin Workers Alliance. These two massive organizations represent the largest interest groups within Franklin but remain uncommitted in the election. It is clear that their endorsement options are limited. "These two powerful labor organizations are not going to support the conservative forces," explain Matt Taylor, a union specialist. Yet, insiders within both organizations report dissatisfaction with the two liberal parties.

"Many labor leaders feel they have not been courted enough by the Liberal States Party or the Liberal Rights Party," the unnamed source was quoted as saying. "These two parties are natural allies of the labor movement but have yet to meet with our leaders or to make any effort to distinguish their policies from each other. Simply put, our members are confused if there is any real difference between these two parties."

The source went on to explain many union members are pushing for the unions to take a careful look at the centralist parties. With the M.O.R. Party picking up the endorsement of the Free Market Association this weekend, it is unlikely the unions would support this party, but many are directing attention to the Manisrits Party. This centralist party seems to have developed labor friendly policies and could represent a tool to expand the labor message beyond the traditional left.

Yet it is clear that no party will get labor support if they don't actively pursue or work for it. The unions are ready to listen, the question is: is anyone ready and willing to talk to them?

Where's The Political Debate?

The Capital Courier - Editorial

We understand that our nation is new to the democratic process and that our political parties are new to the game, but we are left to wonder where the political debate is? This editorial board has been utterly unimpressed with the ability of our parties to actively engage each other in any substantive political debate. The parties are too concerned about playing it safe in the closing days of the campaign and our democracy is worse for it.

We know there exist real and substantive differences between the parties. It is clear by simply visiting the parties' websites that they differ on issues ranging from economics, to social programs, to Iraq. Yet, despite these differences, parties are not criticizing the weaknesses of their opponent's policies. We are not calling for nasty name calling or personal attack ads but we are calling for intelligent political debate on the issues.

So our call goes out: parties wake up! Our democracy needs more than polished campaign slogans and careful electoral strategies. Our nation and voters need a political debate reflective of our diverse opinions and backgrounds. Parties engaged in honest debate will not be punished by the voters but admired for their ability to present clear and coherent policy alternatives.

Endorsement Season

The Franklin Times -

As the campaign ends its final stages the interest groups are weighing in. In a series of critical votes, a number of interest groups held executive sessions to determine party endorsements. On Saturday (April 28th) the executive council of the Franklin Rifle Association voted to endorse the Buckeye Party. In its official statement the Association explained that the Buckeye Party was chosen because of its clear and uncompromising support for every Franklinite's right to own a gun.

Also on Saturday, the Royal Veterans Association voted issue a dual endorsement. The Association, which represents veterans of the Royal Armed Forces, voted to officially endorse the Buckeye Party and the Conservative Against Terrorism Party. According to their statement, the decision came down to which parties clearly supported the current military operations around the world. "These two parties have made it clear that they support our armed forces and will continue to work toward victory in Iraq and against the terrorists."

Going 0 for 2 in the race of conservative interest group endorsements on Saturday, the Free Conservatives received better news on Sunday. Within 24 hours the Free Conservatives would pick up the endorsements of the Free Market Association, the Franklin Commerce Council, and perhaps the biggest prize of all, the full endorsement of Franklinites for Conservative Change. Both the FMA and the FCC justified their pick on the clear free market principles supported by the party. "Despite our disagreement with the party on minimum wage, it is clear that in the big picture this party represents the clearest and most powerful crusader for free market ideals," stated a FMA spokesman. The FMA also endorsed the M.O.R. Party on Sunday, citing its clear support for limited government economic involvement.

In its statement, the Franklinites for Conservative Change, spoke positively of the Buckeye Party and CAT Party but in the end fully endorsed the Free Conservatives, because of "their clear broad based appeal throughout a wide spectrum of the electorate." The statement went on to explain that, "in the earlier meeting between the FCC president and the FCP party leader, the FCC president was thoroughly impressed with the party platform and ideas for the country."

The variety of party endorsements did not escape some political analysts. Brian Swisher, a political analyst, was quoted as saying, "the division of the endorsements showcases the diversity present within the parties and interest groups on the right. It remains unclear if that diversity can be exploited by the other parties for political gain."

Monday, April 23, 2007

Rally Weekend

The Franklin Times -

It was clear this weekend that the campaign is in full gear. On Saturday and Sunday, political rallies were held throughout the country. In these two days alone, at total of 31 rallies were held. Furthermore, it was clear that the campaign was reaching all parts of the nation, as at least one rally was held in each of the 13 states. The CAT Party was the most aggressive, holding a rally in each state. While some consider such events old fashioned, rallies provide an essential tool for political parties. These events energize the party faithful, increase voter awareness, and often lead to positive media coverage. The States of Conover and Irondequiot were specifically targeted. In each, four different party rallies were held over the weekend. Massive crowds filled capital squares throughout these states to listen to party speeches or to catch a glimpse of party leaders. In the capital of Conover, over 35,000 people gathered in the Royal Square to listen to the four simultaneous rallies of the Manisrits, M.O.R., CAT, and Liberal States Parties. Mayor Ian Vanton explained the city's decision to hold the rallies together. "What better way for voters to compare and contrast the party positions than to participate in one massive rally? This was a great day for Franklin and democracy." While the rally attendances varied, the high turnouts reflected voter interest in the upcoming election. "This weekend demonstrated that Franklin voters are listening and actively engaged in this election," explain John Warner, a political analyst. He noted the impressive turnout in Conover and cited the 10,000 attendance figure at a FCP Rally in mostly rural Bennett as evidence of high voter interest.

Friday, April 13, 2007

Economic Trouble Looming?

The Franklin Times -

The nation received two potentially negative economic reports this afternoon. In his monthly press release, the King's Treasury Minister, announced inflationary pressures are beginning to build. The inflation rate for March increased to 5.3% from the February rate of 4.9%. The government had been concerned with the February rate and now it appears the situation may be growing worse. Further compounding the situation is the fact that wages were remaining stagnate. "It is clear that action may be necessary to combat this growing inflation. Our working class already faces inflationary hardships and it appears this burden will grow." The Minister went on to explain that the Royal economic policies will remain in place and any changes will be the responsibility to the next government.

In international news, the U.S., Mexico, and Canada all announced that the Franklin States will have to renegotiate its membership to the North American Free Trade Agreement. The three nations explained that Franklin's membership to the agreement (established in 1994) was temporary. The far-reaching political changes that the nation will usher in with its first democratic election will fundamentally change the status quo. This means that the next government will face an immediate economic crisis when it gains office. Organized labor has already issued statements of opposition to continuing the agreement, which they blame for job losses. Meanwhile, the Franklin Chamber of Commerce issued a statement today urging all parties to support this agreement and to commit now to its continuance.

Monday, April 9, 2007

Free Market Association Flexes Muscles

The Capital Courier -

The Free Market Association, a collection of business owners and supporters of free trade, announced today it will endorse a single political party on Friday, April 19th. In a press release, the FMA, stated that the economic stances of many parties remain unclear and confusing. "Many of the parties have offered only vague economic policies and have utterly failed in providing clear cut statements. Do these parties believe in free trade or protectionism? Do they favor progressive or flat taxes? Do they support minimum wage laws? These are questions for which our members must have answers." This organization, according to its mission's statement, believes that free market economics and free trade that the only proper means by which a nation can enjoy a healthy economy. It also states a strong distrust and dislike for government intrusion and high tax policies. It invites all parties to express their clear economic policies by responding directly to this story and hopes parties will debate the many pressing economic issues facing the Franklin States of America.

Leaders of the NWU and FWA released a joint press release late this afternoon encouraging the pro-worker and pro-labor parties to participate in the FMA economic online debate. "We hope that parties representing the working man will make their voices known in this debate. Any party hoping for labor's support in the upcoming election has a duty to engage and challenge radical free marketers who care more for profit than they do the well being of their fellow citizens."

Recent Wallup polls show deep division and confusion within the Franklin population in regards to economic issues.

The most recent Wallup tracking poll continues to show a tight national race...

If the election were held today, which political party would you support?
LSP: 21%; LRP 19%; Manisrits: 13%; MOR: 8%; Buckeye: 7%; FCP: 20%; CAT: 12%

Sunday, April 8, 2007

Easter Holiday Attack

The Franklin News -

As much of the nation enjoyed a peaceful Easter Holiday, residents of Franklin City woke to the news of attacks against two religious communities. In one attack, Franklin City police are investigating a fire bombing of the Beth Jacob Synagogue. The synagogue was a total loss but no injuries were reported. In another attack, reported hours later, two homes and a business owned and operated by Sunni Muslims were burned to the ground. Two children died in those attacks. The Royal Office has issued a statement of deep sympathy and is considering using the Royal Intelligence Office to assist in the investigations. Leaders of both the Franklin Jewish community and Franklin Islamic community issued a joint statement. "We ask for the full assistance of the central government in investigating and prosecuting these terrible crimes. These are not simple acts of arson and murder but we believe targeted hate crimes. We urge the future government, no matter who controls it, to pass and enforce tough hate crime laws." Such attacks are a rarity in Franklin's history. Attacks against minority groups, religious or ethnic, have been rare and almost non-existent in the modern era. Both the Jewish and Islamic communities have enjoyed long histories of peace and acceptance in urban areas where many have settled. The questions now are many: Who committed the attacks? What was the motivation? Will the attacks continue?

Wednesday, April 4, 2007

EPC Convention

The Franklin Times -

In one of the most dramatic moments of the campaign thus far, representatives of four political parties delivered speeches to the delegates of the Environmental Protection Council. "I can honestly say that the executive council and myself were extremely impressed in the speeches," explain Eric Greene, EPC President.

The evening's speeches began with the CAT Party speech delivered by the CAT representative, Ms. Stephanie Isaacs. The CAT speech was "greener" than many had expected from this traditionally conservative party. The CAT plan combining government action with personal responsibility was well received. "The CAT Party clearly knows what they are talking about," stated Donald Hebrium, an EPC delegate. The second speech was delivered by Mr. Neal Banks of the Liberal Rights Party. The LRP speech praised the British approach to global warming solutions. The speech also outlined an environmental program entitled TREES that looks to preserve and protect the environment. Susan Raymond, delegate from Wayne, loved the speech, "Who knew a politician could actually deliver a speech with concrete ideas?"

The third speech was delivered on behalf of the Free Conservative Party. Fresh from his visit with the FCC President, the FCP Party Leader, Mr. Brent Sexton delivered a dazzling multi-media presentation that stressed a careful balance between business interests and environmental protection. Ian Ivanhoe, delegate from Huron, was impressed, "I thought it was the best of the night, because it showed an understanding of the hard choices our nation must make."

With three speeches down, many delegates were expecting another policy heavy speech, but what was to come brought the convention to life. In a tight and concrete speech, LSP spokesman, Mr. Marc Slone laid out not only a plan to save the environment but also a blistering critique of the conservative ideology. At one point, Mr. Slone claimed that the conservatives (the reference to the FCP plan, which had just been delivered, was clear) did not care about the environment or global warming.

When EPC President, Eric Greene, was asked about a rumored verbal altercation between Mr. Sexton and Mr. Slone after the LSP speech, Greene commented, "Words were exchanged, but that is democracy."

Despite the late hour dramatics it was clear from delegate interviews that all parties had presented themselves well. When asked about an EPC endorsement, Eric Greene was quoted as saying, "A quick straw poll of the delegation shows diverse support. It is important to remember our members are liberals and conservatives brought together in a common crusade to save our environment. Any formal endorsement is weeks away and will be driven by the actions of the parties during the rest of the campaign."

Tuesday, April 3, 2007

The Gun Lobby?

The Nordonia News -

Today thousands of gun owners met at the Gun Gala, the largest gun show held in Franklin. The annual event represents not only a prime opportunity for gun buyers and sellers to do business, but also represents a political event. "As our nation moves into its democratic future, it is critically important that our government respect the rights of gun owners," explain Greg Godsen, President of the Franklin Rifle Association (FRA). Many political analysts agree that gun rights will not play a pivotal role in the 2007 election, but this interest group and its supporters could play crucial roles in key States. "This will force many political parties to develop a delicate balancing act," stated Kyle Smithson, a political analyst. Gun ownership is extremely high in the western States, while gun control remains a popular issue in urban areas of the East.

Monday, April 2, 2007

General Campaign News

The Franklin Times -

EPC Convention Approaches

Final preparations are being made for the annual national convention of the Environment Protection Council (EPC), which is being held in South Winsota's capital, Milwaukee. Delegates from around the F.S.A. will be in attendance at the meeting, which because of the upcoming election has taken on new significance. Eric Greene, President of EPC, described how the election has increased the power and influence his group has. "Now that political parties have to compete for power they need the people," He explained, "as of now five of the major parties are planning on addressing our delegation; presenting their environmental platforms. It is clear that an endorsement from our organization will go a long way to assuring electoral victory in May."

Labor March

The streets of Bordeaux, Irondequiot were filled with the supporters of organized labor today, as the National Workers Union organized a massive show of force. A spokesman for the NWU estimated the crowd number to be 30,000. This number was confirmed by local law enforcement. The march, according to the NWU spokesman, was held to demonstrate the raw strength of their organization and of the labor movement in general. "It is critically important for our nation and our nation's political parties to realize the will and determination of Franklin workers," explained John Taylor (NWU President in Irondequiot), "Our members will support any party that fights for the common man against corporations driven only by a pursuit for higher profits. We need a government that will stop the outsourcing of Franklin jobs and is willing to fight and protect Franklin's industries." Irondequiot, the most populous of the Franklin States, is a sympathetic host. This State and its capital, Bordeaux, have lost 70,000 manufacturing jobs in the last five years. A recent Wallup poll also found that 70% of all Irondequiot residents believe the economy is the number one issue.

The Capital Courier -

Budget Deficit Hits High

The Royal Treasurer announced today that the nation's budget deficit has hit a new record. The current national budget shows a deficit of $38 billion dollars. When asked to explain, Michael Bradburn responded, "Simply put: we spent more money than we took in. No matter, let the democratic revolutionaries solve the problem." It is unclear how this financial situation will play out, but with party tax policies due by the end of the week it is hoped clarification will come soon.

Wallup Regional Polls

For the first time, Wallup Polling Institute has conducted regional/state polls to gauge voter support. Wallup selected two states (one liberal and one conservative) and asked the following question: If the election were held today, which political party would you support.

Hampton:
LSP 4%, LRP 3%, MOR 7%, Manisrits 7%, Buckeye 19%, FCP 33%, CAT 19%, Unsure 8%

Capital State:
LSP 30%, LRP 24%, MOR 5%, Manisrits 10%, Buckeye 9%, FCP 13%, CAT 8%, Unsure 1%