The Capital Courier -
As the election heats up, political parties are not the only agents to consider. While the seven political parties competing in the 2008 election are new, the interest groups representing like minded citizens are not. All of the nationally recognized interest groups from the 2007 election have maintained their organization and are looking at the parties carefully. These interest groups, like in elections throughout the United States, can play a powerful role in the electoral process. These groups possess the ability to spend money on independent advertising, and energize their supporters to support one party over another. In the 2007 election there were intense battles for endorsements from these groups.
In related news, two interest groups (the World Affairs Council and the Royal Veterans Association) announced plans to hold a joint conference to discuss the global issues facing the nation. In a joint new conference, the spokesmen from both organizations invited the political parties to address the conference. Any party wishing to participate are asked to submit a five to ten minute speech outlining their visions for a future foreign policy on their webpages and submit a copy to the moderator of the event, NEC Director Mr. J. McFarland by Friday, April 4th.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Saturday, March 22, 2008
The Olympic Question
The Capital Courier - (editorial)
As news of China's crackdown in Tibet and other provinces seeps out of that repressive nation; our leaders, our citizens, our nation as a whole must ask what to do. This summer, athletes from around the world will gather to compete on the international stage in the preeminent athletic competition. This international event which will pit the world's best against each other in the spirit of friendly and peaceful competition is something our nation's athletes have dreamed of for years. Yet, is there a higher moral purpose which we must consider?
Our nation has known tyrants and tyranny. Our nation has seen the impact of iron-fisted rule and the results of totalitarian goverance. Our nation is familiar with the policies of an uncaring world willing to look a blind eye at injustice. Yet, our nation has also witnessed the transforming nature of society when a people finally are allowed to rise up and overthrow their oppressors.
Nearly three years ago, our nation underwent such a transforming revolution. The end of the absolute monarchy, controlled by my family, allowed for a rebirth of individual freedom and introduced to our nation the miracle of democratic rule. Fellow citizens, we know this struggle and we know the proper end. The question we must ask is how can we influence the means?
It is because of our recent history and struggles, our first hand knowledge of the events now facing the Tibetans, that we have a unique responsibility. The Franklin States must take the high road. The Franklin States must show solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Tibet and elsewhere who desire freedom. Yet will we?
China represents a rising power in the East. She represents the fastest growing economic market in the world and would make a tremendous trading partner. Yet, we must look beyond this economic potential to what is right. The current U.S. administration, the very birthplace of modern democracy, continues to ignore the situation. We should not make the same mistake.
It is with these thoughts in mind that I call on the competing political parties in the upcoming election to join me in my call for a boycott of the upcoming Olympic Games to be held this summer in the Chinese capital, Beijing. Through such a boycott, our proud nation can send the message that we will not condone the military crackdown currently occurring in Western China, nor will we turn a blind eye to the half century of injustice committed against the Chinese people by their own government. We must stand on the side of freedom and not support the Chinese efforts to sweep their horrible human rights record under the rug.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23754052
Sincerely,
Your King and Sovereign
King Guy Plantagenet II
As news of China's crackdown in Tibet and other provinces seeps out of that repressive nation; our leaders, our citizens, our nation as a whole must ask what to do. This summer, athletes from around the world will gather to compete on the international stage in the preeminent athletic competition. This international event which will pit the world's best against each other in the spirit of friendly and peaceful competition is something our nation's athletes have dreamed of for years. Yet, is there a higher moral purpose which we must consider?
Our nation has known tyrants and tyranny. Our nation has seen the impact of iron-fisted rule and the results of totalitarian goverance. Our nation is familiar with the policies of an uncaring world willing to look a blind eye at injustice. Yet, our nation has also witnessed the transforming nature of society when a people finally are allowed to rise up and overthrow their oppressors.
Nearly three years ago, our nation underwent such a transforming revolution. The end of the absolute monarchy, controlled by my family, allowed for a rebirth of individual freedom and introduced to our nation the miracle of democratic rule. Fellow citizens, we know this struggle and we know the proper end. The question we must ask is how can we influence the means?
It is because of our recent history and struggles, our first hand knowledge of the events now facing the Tibetans, that we have a unique responsibility. The Franklin States must take the high road. The Franklin States must show solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Tibet and elsewhere who desire freedom. Yet will we?
China represents a rising power in the East. She represents the fastest growing economic market in the world and would make a tremendous trading partner. Yet, we must look beyond this economic potential to what is right. The current U.S. administration, the very birthplace of modern democracy, continues to ignore the situation. We should not make the same mistake.
It is with these thoughts in mind that I call on the competing political parties in the upcoming election to join me in my call for a boycott of the upcoming Olympic Games to be held this summer in the Chinese capital, Beijing. Through such a boycott, our proud nation can send the message that we will not condone the military crackdown currently occurring in Western China, nor will we turn a blind eye to the half century of injustice committed against the Chinese people by their own government. We must stand on the side of freedom and not support the Chinese efforts to sweep their horrible human rights record under the rug.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23754052
Sincerely,
Your King and Sovereign
King Guy Plantagenet II
New Wallup Poll Shows Tighening Race
The Franklin Times -
The upcoming parliamentary elections are growing more competitive according to the most recent Wallup Election Poll.
If the election were held today, who would you support?
FMP - 7%; FHSRP - 6%; LFP - 7%; LLM - 8%; ALP - 7%; JRP - 5%; FDRP - 17%; Unsure - 43%
While the poll shows growing competition, there is still a massive number of voters who are undecided. When these undecided voters were questioned, many complained that the parties, while beginning to offer policies, were not distinguishing themselves. "I would love to see more debate between the parties over the future course of the country," explain Sarah Fale (an undecided voter). "The parties are not engaging each other in this election."
The NEC also announced that due to these poll results all recognized political parties qualified for the allocated $50 million in campaign funds. The NEC Director, James McFarland, announced that the first filing report for campaign expenditures would be due April 2nd.
The upcoming parliamentary elections are growing more competitive according to the most recent Wallup Election Poll.
If the election were held today, who would you support?
FMP - 7%; FHSRP - 6%; LFP - 7%; LLM - 8%; ALP - 7%; JRP - 5%; FDRP - 17%; Unsure - 43%
While the poll shows growing competition, there is still a massive number of voters who are undecided. When these undecided voters were questioned, many complained that the parties, while beginning to offer policies, were not distinguishing themselves. "I would love to see more debate between the parties over the future course of the country," explain Sarah Fale (an undecided voter). "The parties are not engaging each other in this election."
The NEC also announced that due to these poll results all recognized political parties qualified for the allocated $50 million in campaign funds. The NEC Director, James McFarland, announced that the first filing report for campaign expenditures would be due April 2nd.
Massive Iraq Protests Held
The Franklin Times -
The day before Easter Sunday was marked by massive anti-war protests throughout the nation, culminating in a 500,000 person strong rally in the capital. The protests was organized by a loose coalition of political organizations calling itself the Union for Change Now.
Adam Swan, spokesman for UCN expressed the goal of the marches, "It is time for the people of this nation to stand up and demonstrate their desire and need for change. Prime Minister Sexton continues a failed policy begun by the unelected tyrant before him. It is time for this nation and its brave men and women in uniform to leave Iraq. This was a war by choice driven by the United States. Our leaders need to urgently turn their attention to the problems at home and away from a problem created by a southern neighbor."
The massive protests clearly signify a growing restlessness over the war throughout much of the country. The UCN and its member clearly are looking to put political pressure on the parties competing in the upcoming election. Recent polls also seem to reveal that popular opinion is on the side of the UCN. In a recent Wallup national poll, 69% of respondents stated that the Royal Armed Forces should be withdrawn from Iraq. 65% of respondents also stated they disapprove of Prime Minister Sexton's current handling of this issue.
The day before Easter Sunday was marked by massive anti-war protests throughout the nation, culminating in a 500,000 person strong rally in the capital. The protests was organized by a loose coalition of political organizations calling itself the Union for Change Now.
Adam Swan, spokesman for UCN expressed the goal of the marches, "It is time for the people of this nation to stand up and demonstrate their desire and need for change. Prime Minister Sexton continues a failed policy begun by the unelected tyrant before him. It is time for this nation and its brave men and women in uniform to leave Iraq. This was a war by choice driven by the United States. Our leaders need to urgently turn their attention to the problems at home and away from a problem created by a southern neighbor."
The massive protests clearly signify a growing restlessness over the war throughout much of the country. The UCN and its member clearly are looking to put political pressure on the parties competing in the upcoming election. Recent polls also seem to reveal that popular opinion is on the side of the UCN. In a recent Wallup national poll, 69% of respondents stated that the Royal Armed Forces should be withdrawn from Iraq. 65% of respondents also stated they disapprove of Prime Minister Sexton's current handling of this issue.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
The Power of the Old?
The Capital Courier -
While the past government is not standing for reelection, it is clear that the government ministers are not going away. Prime Minister Brent Sexton, while offering a blistering attack on his critics, has announced his political organization is looking for a torchbearer.
Citing the great issues facing the nation, the Prime Minister stated, "It is important for our nation to continue on the road of security and economic prosperity. Therefore, it is essential for our nation to elect a government that will not tie the hands of business or our military commanders in Iraq. It is my intention to fully and actively support the party that best articulates these views."
The importance of the Free Conservative Party (which is disbanding as Sexton steps down after the April election) cannot be overstated. During the 2007 election, the FCP showed tremendous organizational talents and displayed an effective get-out-the-vote effort. Its and Prime Minister Sexton's popularity in the Western and Northern part of the country would be a great prize for any conservative party. "I would expect to see a rush by the conservative parties to woo the Prime Minister. His endorsement could be a trump card in this race," explained Allen Baldwin, Political Science Professor at Franklin National University. He added, "However, I don't expect the Prime Minister to rush to any sort of decision. He will wait to make an endorsement in an effort to make the maximum political impact."
Meanwhile, the political left is growing restless. After receiving more votes in the 2007 elections, but failing to control the government because of divisions between the leftist parties, the political left is anxious to win in 2008. Deputy Prime Minister and Liberal States Party Leader, Cameron McDaniel (who in past weeks has grown ever critical of the Prime Minister's policies) called for action from the new parties. McDaniel announced the formation of a new interest group, the National Progressive Union, dedicated to promoting and supporting left-of-center parties and candidates. "It is my hope that the NPU will bring an end to the current silence by the leftist parties. The workers of this nation deserve more than they are currently getting from the Sexton government," explained McDaniel. McDaniel went on to explain that unless a strong and effective voice emerged on the left, he would enter the race. This move would severely hurt any new leftist party as McDaniel would be able to capitalize on this NPU organization and combine the remaining elements of the Liberal States Party and the Liberal Rights Party, where he remains tremendously popular.
While the past government is not standing for reelection, it is clear that the government ministers are not going away. Prime Minister Brent Sexton, while offering a blistering attack on his critics, has announced his political organization is looking for a torchbearer.
Citing the great issues facing the nation, the Prime Minister stated, "It is important for our nation to continue on the road of security and economic prosperity. Therefore, it is essential for our nation to elect a government that will not tie the hands of business or our military commanders in Iraq. It is my intention to fully and actively support the party that best articulates these views."
The importance of the Free Conservative Party (which is disbanding as Sexton steps down after the April election) cannot be overstated. During the 2007 election, the FCP showed tremendous organizational talents and displayed an effective get-out-the-vote effort. Its and Prime Minister Sexton's popularity in the Western and Northern part of the country would be a great prize for any conservative party. "I would expect to see a rush by the conservative parties to woo the Prime Minister. His endorsement could be a trump card in this race," explained Allen Baldwin, Political Science Professor at Franklin National University. He added, "However, I don't expect the Prime Minister to rush to any sort of decision. He will wait to make an endorsement in an effort to make the maximum political impact."
Meanwhile, the political left is growing restless. After receiving more votes in the 2007 elections, but failing to control the government because of divisions between the leftist parties, the political left is anxious to win in 2008. Deputy Prime Minister and Liberal States Party Leader, Cameron McDaniel (who in past weeks has grown ever critical of the Prime Minister's policies) called for action from the new parties. McDaniel announced the formation of a new interest group, the National Progressive Union, dedicated to promoting and supporting left-of-center parties and candidates. "It is my hope that the NPU will bring an end to the current silence by the leftist parties. The workers of this nation deserve more than they are currently getting from the Sexton government," explained McDaniel. McDaniel went on to explain that unless a strong and effective voice emerged on the left, he would enter the race. This move would severely hurt any new leftist party as McDaniel would be able to capitalize on this NPU organization and combine the remaining elements of the Liberal States Party and the Liberal Rights Party, where he remains tremendously popular.
The Power of the Internet
The Franklin Times -
Fueled by an effective internet strategy the FDRP is growing in recogniztion and popularity. The most recent Wallup Poll (conducted Friday 3/14/08) finds that 50% of Franklin voters have heard of the FDRP. This number outperforms all other parties. The poll found that much of this attention and growing support is founded on the party's concerted effort to use the internet. "The FDRP website is continually updated and is clearly the most informative," said Wallup polling director, Eric Smith.
The NEC, which released $50 million dollars to the FDRP earlier in the week due to is polling results, is calling for a meeting with the FDRP leadership to explain spending rules. The meeting is expected to be held early next week.
The Wallup Poll found:
If the election were held today, who would you vote for?
FMP - 4%; FHSRP - 1%; LFP - 3%; LLP - 3%; ALP - 1%; JRP - 2%; FDRP - 17%; Unsure - 69%
Fueled by an effective internet strategy the FDRP is growing in recogniztion and popularity. The most recent Wallup Poll (conducted Friday 3/14/08) finds that 50% of Franklin voters have heard of the FDRP. This number outperforms all other parties. The poll found that much of this attention and growing support is founded on the party's concerted effort to use the internet. "The FDRP website is continually updated and is clearly the most informative," said Wallup polling director, Eric Smith.
The NEC, which released $50 million dollars to the FDRP earlier in the week due to is polling results, is calling for a meeting with the FDRP leadership to explain spending rules. The meeting is expected to be held early next week.
The Wallup Poll found:
If the election were held today, who would you vote for?
FMP - 4%; FHSRP - 1%; LFP - 3%; LLP - 3%; ALP - 1%; JRP - 2%; FDRP - 17%; Unsure - 69%
Thursday, March 13, 2008
First Wallup National Poll Released
The Franklin Times -
The Wallup polling service released their first national poll yesterday. The WPS poll showcased growing concern over the economy and frustration in the lack of political options. Many voters, who were questioned in the poll (sample size 2200) voiced little confidence in the overall health of the economy. When asked to rate their top election concern, 44% stated the economy. 23% stated that their top concern was the War in Iraq and the War on Terror. 11% identified raising healthcare costs as their number one concern.
Voters also complained about the silence from the parties over these issues. 85% of voters agreed that the parties need to do more to showcase their views. 60% of voters claimed to have read or heard nothing from any political party. Of those who had, the vast majority had acquired information about the FDRP. The FDRP is the only party so far to launch an information campaign. Further poll details are below.
If the election was held today, who would you vote for?
FMP 1%; FHSRP 1%; LFP 3%; LLP 3%; ALP 1%; JRP 1%; FDRP 10%; Unsure 80%
Would you like to know more about the parties?
Yes: 88%; No: 5%; Unsure 7%
Is the economy better today than it was a year ago?
Yes: 35%; No: 60%; Unsure: 5%
Do you approve of Prime Minister Sexton's job performance?
Yes: 38%; No: 47%; Unsure: 15%
Due to the poll results the National Election Commission announced the release of $50 million to the FDRP for the national campaign. In his statement, NEC Chairman James McFarland stated, "The FDRP has cleared the established threshold to receive the public campaign funds. As soon as other parties poll above 5% nationally additional funds will be released."
The Wallup polling service released their first national poll yesterday. The WPS poll showcased growing concern over the economy and frustration in the lack of political options. Many voters, who were questioned in the poll (sample size 2200) voiced little confidence in the overall health of the economy. When asked to rate their top election concern, 44% stated the economy. 23% stated that their top concern was the War in Iraq and the War on Terror. 11% identified raising healthcare costs as their number one concern.
Voters also complained about the silence from the parties over these issues. 85% of voters agreed that the parties need to do more to showcase their views. 60% of voters claimed to have read or heard nothing from any political party. Of those who had, the vast majority had acquired information about the FDRP. The FDRP is the only party so far to launch an information campaign. Further poll details are below.
If the election was held today, who would you vote for?
FMP 1%; FHSRP 1%; LFP 3%; LLP 3%; ALP 1%; JRP 1%; FDRP 10%; Unsure 80%
Would you like to know more about the parties?
Yes: 88%; No: 5%; Unsure 7%
Is the economy better today than it was a year ago?
Yes: 35%; No: 60%; Unsure: 5%
Do you approve of Prime Minister Sexton's job performance?
Yes: 38%; No: 47%; Unsure: 15%
Due to the poll results the National Election Commission announced the release of $50 million to the FDRP for the national campaign. In his statement, NEC Chairman James McFarland stated, "The FDRP has cleared the established threshold to receive the public campaign funds. As soon as other parties poll above 5% nationally additional funds will be released."
Monday, March 10, 2008
Socialist Victory in Spain
The Franklin Times -
Over the weekend, the Socialist government in Spain was reelected. The Socialist Party was the clear victor in the weekend elections, winning five more seats than in 2004. While the party is short of a majority, forming a coalition will probably offer little challenge to the party. Many analysts point to the results as a statement of support for the leftist policies of this party in a historically conservative country. What does this foretell for the Franklin States?
Please read for more information:
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20080310/wl_nm/spain_election_dc;_ylt=AnTDDfpbyj7_lixL9lSygNh0bBAF
Over the weekend, the Socialist government in Spain was reelected. The Socialist Party was the clear victor in the weekend elections, winning five more seats than in 2004. While the party is short of a majority, forming a coalition will probably offer little challenge to the party. Many analysts point to the results as a statement of support for the leftist policies of this party in a historically conservative country. What does this foretell for the Franklin States?
Please read for more information:
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20080310/wl_nm/spain_election_dc;_ylt=AnTDDfpbyj7_lixL9lSygNh0bBAF
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Bad Economic Times Ahead?
The Telmer Telegraph -
Government economic figures, released today, show the continuation of a negative trend: an increase in the unemployment rate. Unemployment jumped to 7.1%, an increase of nearly two percentage points in two months.
The report cites the continued "outsourcing" of jobs in the manufacturing sector as the main cause. Capital State and Schenck were hit the hardest, each with an current unemployment rate at 10.7%.
A number of leaders from the organized labor movement have already called on National Assembly candidates to make their trade and economic views clear. "We want to know, do these parties stand with the worker or the wealthy?" commented Alistar Campell, leader of the United Workers Union. Campell continued, "Prime Minister Sexton and his conservative economic policies have utterly failed to solve a dangerous trend for our nation. It is time for the Franklin States to chose a leader committed to fight for the middle class."
Government economic figures, released today, show the continuation of a negative trend: an increase in the unemployment rate. Unemployment jumped to 7.1%, an increase of nearly two percentage points in two months.
The report cites the continued "outsourcing" of jobs in the manufacturing sector as the main cause. Capital State and Schenck were hit the hardest, each with an current unemployment rate at 10.7%.
A number of leaders from the organized labor movement have already called on National Assembly candidates to make their trade and economic views clear. "We want to know, do these parties stand with the worker or the wealthy?" commented Alistar Campell, leader of the United Workers Union. Campell continued, "Prime Minister Sexton and his conservative economic policies have utterly failed to solve a dangerous trend for our nation. It is time for the Franklin States to chose a leader committed to fight for the middle class."
Death in Iraq
The Nordonia News -
The Royal Armed Forces announced the death of two soldiers south of Baghdad on Saturday. Both died in an IED attack while on patrol. The two soldiers are both from a unit stationed out of the State of Huron. The RAF's press release stated that their names will be released after contact is made with the families. The Royal Armed Forces currently has 2,300 military personnel deployed in Iraq in support of Coalition forces. These deaths mark the 59th and 60th military fatalities since 2003.
In his official statement, Prime Minister Sexton reconfirmed his commitment to the military operation in Iraq. "These two young soldiers gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect our nation and to secure the blessings of liberty for a people deprieved too long of democracy."
The deaths are sure to reopen the Iraq War as a compaign issue in the upcoming parliamentary elections. Prime Minister Sexton launched an attempt nearly a year ago to expand the military's commitment in Iraq but failed in a close vote in the National Assembly (161 for/189 against).
The Royal Armed Forces announced the death of two soldiers south of Baghdad on Saturday. Both died in an IED attack while on patrol. The two soldiers are both from a unit stationed out of the State of Huron. The RAF's press release stated that their names will be released after contact is made with the families. The Royal Armed Forces currently has 2,300 military personnel deployed in Iraq in support of Coalition forces. These deaths mark the 59th and 60th military fatalities since 2003.
In his official statement, Prime Minister Sexton reconfirmed his commitment to the military operation in Iraq. "These two young soldiers gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect our nation and to secure the blessings of liberty for a people deprieved too long of democracy."
The deaths are sure to reopen the Iraq War as a compaign issue in the upcoming parliamentary elections. Prime Minister Sexton launched an attempt nearly a year ago to expand the military's commitment in Iraq but failed in a close vote in the National Assembly (161 for/189 against).
Election Time
The Franklin Times -
As the nation awaits the beginning of its second democratic election, the political parties prepare themselves for a long and spirited fight. King Guy, has renamed J. McFarland to be Director of the National Election Commission, which will oversee the election. Mr. McFarland has issued seven political party notices and plans to release their official names by Monday, March 10th.
Three parties have already responded to the electoral notices. These parties have submitted leadership lists along with the required paperwork, qualifying their entry on the national ballot. These parties are: the LLP, the JRP, and the FDRP.
These parties are free to begin campaigning and will qualify for national election funds once they poll at least 5% in a national opinion poll. The Wallup News Service announced Friday their first poll will be conducted over the weekend and released early next week.
As the nation awaits the beginning of its second democratic election, the political parties prepare themselves for a long and spirited fight. King Guy, has renamed J. McFarland to be Director of the National Election Commission, which will oversee the election. Mr. McFarland has issued seven political party notices and plans to release their official names by Monday, March 10th.
Three parties have already responded to the electoral notices. These parties have submitted leadership lists along with the required paperwork, qualifying their entry on the national ballot. These parties are: the LLP, the JRP, and the FDRP.
These parties are free to begin campaigning and will qualify for national election funds once they poll at least 5% in a national opinion poll. The Wallup News Service announced Friday their first poll will be conducted over the weekend and released early next week.
First National Poll
The Capital Courier -
The election has not even begun and the first poll is out! The Wallup Polling Institute has just released its first poll in the 2008 election. The Poll of 2200 registered voters asked the following questions:
1. Do you plan to vote in the upcoming democratic election?
Yes - 86%; No - 10%; Unsure - 4%
2. How would you describe your political ideology?
Very Liberal - 20%; Liberal - 15%; Moderate - 17%; Conservative - 30%; Very Conservative - 10%; Unsure - 8%
3. What is the most important issue for you today?
Economy - 40%; National Security/Iraq - 22%; Health Care - 10%; Unsure - 28%
4. Do you approve of the leadership of Prime Minister Sexton?
Strongly Approve: 30%; Approve: 10%; Strong Disapprove: 30%; Disapprove 10%; Unsure: 20%
The election has not even begun and the first poll is out! The Wallup Polling Institute has just released its first poll in the 2008 election. The Poll of 2200 registered voters asked the following questions:
1. Do you plan to vote in the upcoming democratic election?
Yes - 86%; No - 10%; Unsure - 4%
2. How would you describe your political ideology?
Very Liberal - 20%; Liberal - 15%; Moderate - 17%; Conservative - 30%; Very Conservative - 10%; Unsure - 8%
3. What is the most important issue for you today?
Economy - 40%; National Security/Iraq - 22%; Health Care - 10%; Unsure - 28%
4. Do you approve of the leadership of Prime Minister Sexton?
Strongly Approve: 30%; Approve: 10%; Strong Disapprove: 30%; Disapprove 10%; Unsure: 20%
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