Talk Elections

This will be the Office of the GM where economic figures, news, Fed Reports, and other related announcements will be posted. I will keep the most recent economic figures updated on this first page.

Like previous GM's, I'm instituting a new newspaper for announcements/news stories that don't quite fit a release from a government office. I give you: THE ATLASIAN MUSTELID POST GAZETTE. (Taa-dah!) I am undecided how much to use this new organ of the media rather than existing newspapers, but I will endeavor to occasionally plant provide a story to the existing Atlasian media at random intervals. The ratio of AMPG stories to other papers I'll change as needed.


UNEMPLOYMENT RATE: 9.2% (February: 9.1%)

ANNUAL GDP GROWTH RATE: 0.4% (February: 0.2%)

CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (ANNUAL RATE): 1.0% (Unchanged from February)

ANSE INDEX: 652.41 (As of 3/25/11).

I will add additional graphics/building pictures/frills, bells and whistles to the main page later as time and whimsy dictate. (The Office is officially accepting any/all submissions or suggestions). ;)

I would have included the initial statistics I've worked out for current unemployment, GDP and inflation that I've worked out, but I left them at my office. :P

Yank pointed out--correctly--in a recent volley of words in the Senate that I haven't done anything in my office yet (which I would've acknowledged in that thread had some hypersensitive mod not locked it :P).

True. Due to some renovations at my office, my access to the internet during the day has been cut by close to two thirds since the beginning of last week, and will continue so until at least the end of next week. I wanted to announce this last week, but I wanted to first open my office to have a place to announce it, and my last post on the Budget Committee took more time than I had....:(

Even after I have full internet access at work, I'll be in jury trial 1-2 days the week after that, and accordingly catching up on work much of the rest of the week. Also, my time in evenings and weekends will be fuller than normal until after Nov. 2nd. Put simply, RL elections are still more important than fantasy ones, and I'll be working to avoid having to say the words "Governor Kasich". :P

All this said, please understand I will NOT be an absent GM during this period. I pledge to focus my efforts in this period to 1) Regularly update economic information and Fed Reports; and 2) to keep driving the Budget Committee's work.

Many of you may be understandably thinking: "Oh great. Another promising new GM developing internet troubles then planning lessened activity". Don't. Just don't. As I said I will still be present and working over the next few weeks.  I'm simply being realistic and giving advance notice that there will probably be no storylines to speak of until next month. That's all.

You all know my dedication and penchant (obsession some say) for detail. I'm just letting you all know that due to workplace issues and the upcoming election I'll be merely a GM of "average" activity for the next few weeks. ;)

It wasn't a hypersenitive mod, it was the hypersensitive PPT pissed the Senate floor was being disrupted by an outsider. :P

I hope you remember the mandates which you voted for regarding things the GM and other cabinet officers had to do?

One dealt with floods response preparedness, the other, I can't remember offhand.

Jesus, Yankee, how long are you going to bitchcomplain about such a minor error?'

EDIT: I retreact "bitching" phrase, because I promised to myself to stay away from that kind of language in Atlasia now.

Can you not read the tongue? I realize English isn't your first language, but damn. :P


For the record, I locked it several hours afterwards because I felt it in the best interests of the Senate to do so. Had it just been me, I would let of it go, I assure you.

Of course I do, of course. <Ahem>

But maybe you could list them here anyway? Just as a test for you of course. ;)

Oh, I'm very sorry for being a non-native speaker. Perhaps Atlasia of a proud White Southern Protestant like you is not a place where foreign posters should be allowed.

Endorsed.

Sure, sure. If we don't end up impeaching this cat, it will be a miracle. :P

This is the only one I introduced appearently (Could have sworn there was one more economically focused)
The Federal Flood Response Review Resolution

What? Did you really think I would give you the links? WORK FOR THEM !!! :P


I did realize the commies seized any sense of humor when they "liberated" Poland in 1944/45. :P

The current major economic figures are finally posted in the first post, where they will be updated regularly.

In other news:

Consumer Confidence Declines:
(AMPG) Economists announced Monday that the Consumer Confidence Index, measuring optimism on the state of the economy that consumers are expressing through their activities of savings and spending, declined for the third straight month in a row. The drop of 5.2 points to an Index level of 46.9 was notably sharper than the previous months minor declines, and brought renewed fears in some circles of a slowing economy.

The pullback in confidence was due to less favorable business and labor market conditions, coupled with a more pessimistic short-term outlook. Overall, consumers’ confidence in the state of the economy remains quite grim. And, with so few expecting conditions to improve in the near term, the pace of economic growth is not likely to pick up in the coming months.

Consumers are also more pessimistic about future employment prospects. Those expecting more jobs in the months ahead remained essentially unchanged, however those anticipating fewer jobs increased notably. The proportion of consumers expecting an increase in their incomes likewise declined slightly.

FYI: My jury trial is indeed progressing to a second day, but even more concerning the severe cutback in internet access at work is apparantly going to persist at least throughout this week as well. >:( ARRRGHHH!!

FYI: Some discussions have been proposed with the President-elect regarding certain matters related to the GM's Office, so I assure you I'm still active, just not as much as usual (or that I'd like :P).

LEADING ECONOMIC INDICATORS DECLINE SLIGHTLY:
(AMPG) Measurements of Leading Economic Indicators (LEI) for Atlasia decreased by 0.1 percent in October to 102.4 (2004 = 100), following no change in September, and a 0.2 percent increase in August. Analysts state the figures demonstrate the economy is slow and has no forward momentum. Shaky consumer confidence is primarily blamed for the slowdown.

Economists preparing the report are deeply divided, however, as to whether such economic stagnation is a likely trend for the forthcoming year, or may instead reflect a short term lack of growth compounded by isolated events outside seasonal variables. Economists were even more heatedly divided at the press conference announcing the results as to the proper fiscal policy to address the lagging growth. Debate was acrimonious between those favoring additional public stimulus to prime the economic pump and those favoring attacking public debt as a primary focus.

Ultimately tempers flared into violence between rival gangs of economic theorists requiring police intervention. Eight arrests occurred, as did three injuries reported as "tweed burn" suffered by the combatant academics. A arrested gang of Neo-Keynesian identified as members of the Westside Krugman Locos Posse demanded appointment of public counsel,  notwithstanding their incomes each being well into six figures, claiming such steps would help to stimulate the local economy of new lawyers. A leader of the rival gang of Monetarist thugs also arrested was asked regarding his pending criminal charges and simply replied "I'm confident the free market will ultimately set things right".

This last report reminds me of something that would happen in one of my political games or in that redistricting game thingy. ;)

Erg! And so it continues. No sooner does the office move take place last week when one of the four prosecutors in my office goes on paternity leave. So now I'm doing double duty through next week. Though I guess I owe him for covering for my daddy leave this summer :P.

I'm actually leaving for home momentarily after a 13 hour day. My wife gets home from a meeting then has to go back to work--at 9 PM after working 12 hours. Whoever said public employees and non-profit workers are overpaid goldbrickers can suck it. >:(

I will maintain at least "moderate" activity till then, though. I hope to update national economic stats AND (maybe) finish the Budget Process Committee work by the end of this week. Then, at long last, I can get work on some real storylines. :D

STATEMENT TO THE SENATE AND PRESIDENT REGARDING THE BUDGET:

Greetings assembled politicos:

Momentarily the budget adopted by the Budget Process Committee will be posted. It's basically the same as the NathanNewman Sim (Long Version) provided in the Committee and the Economics discussion thread, with the Committee's estimation of the current national debt. I want to first thank all of the Committee members for the work they gave in formulating this addition to Atlasia government. You can each look at your efforts for the Committee and be accordingly proud.

First thing the government needs to understand about this budget:

THIS IS NOT A PROPOSAL AS TO WHAT THE BUDGET SHOULD BE, BUT RATHER AN ESTIMATION OF WHAT IT CURRENTLY IS.

What you esteemed elected representatives of the people decide to do with the budget from this point is entirely up to you.

Technically, as GM I could simply adopt this budget as posted and that would be that, short of President Fritz firing me. :P But I want this to be as broad-based a project as possible. While the Committee sincerely hopes their hard work is acceptable and finished, if the consensus of the Senate and President is that there are necessary changes--again, the question being what the budget IS, not what it SHOULD BE---then we will take those recommendations under advisement and go back to deliberations (again, if we really, REALLY have to :P).

As far as upkeep of the budget goes, fundamentally that is in your control also. A few considerations though: It was noted among skeptics that the budget was a tedious process that bored many having to do every year. A very good suggestion was made to treat the budget more as a tally sheet of decisions affecting spending and taxes, rather than an annual process to be voted on.

With this in mind, unless the government decides differently, the budget will be modified only by 1) policy decisions (i.e. laws passed affecting the budget); and b) generally incremental changes caused by inflation, population growth, and some national events. In other words, the Senate and president need not pass a budget every year or term in order to keep government running. Unless specific changes are made to particular program(s) and/or taxes, the budget will otherwise be marginally changed every year by the GM to account for inflation and population growth, but at the same basic spending levels as last decided on by the government. Specific events might change spending levels a bit more as determined by the GM.

For example, increased unemployment rates will trigger increased spending on unemployment benefits. We can (unsurprisingly) expect the costs of medical care to rise faster than the standard Consumer Price Index (without reforms of course), and disasters like 9/11 can cause a drop in economic activity and resulting tax revenue. If the GM determines there are such national trends effecting the numbers outside legislation passed there will be suitable news reports to warn of the developments (or at least to explain the problem when the revised budget numbers come out :P).

But again, this is all up to YOU. If the Senate should pass and the president sign (or have his veto overridden) a bill or resolution to actually do an annual budget process, then as the government's loyal servant I'll gladly abide. Otherwise, just keep doing what you've been doing and now we can put all this debate about government spending, taxation and debt to actual practice.

We've worked on this hard in the Committee, but from here on in this is YOUR budget. Think of it as a new toy we've built for Atlasia to enjoy. :) Now, like any new toy received by a kid on Christmas morning, feel free to kick it to shreds. ;)

And now, without further ado, Atlasia's current budget:

Spending ($2673.05 billion)

Military Spending ($446.11 billion)
$106.57 billion ... Military personnel
$153.62 billion ... Operation and maintenance
$80.84 billion .... Procurement
$68.13 billion .... Research, development, test and evaluation
$16.15 billion .... Military Construction, Family Housing and Other
$17.99 billion .... Atomic Energy Defense Activities
$2.81 billion ..... Defense Related activities

Iraq and Afghanistan Operations ($111.85 billion)
$105 billion ..... Military Operations
$6.85 billion .... Reconstruction aid

Military Retirement ($115.48 billion)
$40.83 billion .... Military retirement
$36.34 billion .... Income security for veterans
$3.24 billion ...... Veterans education, training, and rehabilitation
$34.35 billion ..... Hospital and medical care for veterans and retired military
$0.72 billion ...... Housing and other veterans benefits and services

International affairs ($31.59 billion)
$13 billion ........ International development and humanitarian assistance
$9.47 billion ...... International military aid
$7.97 billion ...... Conduct of foreign affairs
$1.15 billion ...... Foreign information and exchange activities

General science, space, and technology ($23.97 billion)
$5.62 billion ...... National Science Foundation programs
$3.44 billion ...... Department of Energy general science programs
$14.91 billion ..... Space flight, research, and supporting activities

Non-Defense Energy Spending ($2.12 billion)
$0.73 billion ...... Energy supply
$1.03 billion ...... Energy conservation and preparedness
$0.36 billion ...... Energy information, preparedness, & regulation

Natural resources and environment ($31.16 billion)
$5.45 billion ..... Water resources
$9.07 billion ..... Conservation and land management
$3.12 billion ..... Recreational & Park resources
$8.42 billion ..... Pollution control and abatement
$5.1 billion ....... Other natural resources

Agriculture ($26.02 billion)
$21.73 billion ..... Farm income stabilization & crop insurance
$4.29 billion ...... Agricultural research and services

Commerce and Housing Loan Programs ($6.82 billion)
$-4.28 billion ..... Federal Housing Loan Programs
$2.17 billion ...... Postal service
$-0.96 billion ..... Deposit insurance
$7.96 billion ...... Universal service fund
$1.93 billion ...... Other advancement of commerce

Transportation ($70.68 billion)
$36.51 billion ..... Highways and highway safety
$8.51 billion ...... Mass transit
$0.61 billion ...... Railroads
$17.26 billion ..... Air Transportion
$7.37 billion ...... Water transportation
$0.42 billion ...... Other transportation

Community and regional development ($19.1 billion)
$6.25 billion ...... Community development
$2.86 billion ...... Area and regional development
$9.99 billion ...... Disaster relief and insurance

Education ($64.07 billion)
$38.57 billion ..... Elementary, Secondary & Vocational education
$22.27 billion ..... Higher education
$3.23 billion ...... Research and general education

Training, labor and unemployment ($47.81 billion)
$6.88 billion ...... Training and employment
$1.6 billion ....... Labor law, statistics, and other administration
$39.33 billion ..... Unemployment compensation

Non-Medicare Health Spending ($253.32 billion)
$192.72 billion .... Medicaid grants
$6.23 billion ...... State Children's Health Insurance
$3.17 billion ...... Indian health
$3.24 billion ...... Substance abuse and mental health services
$4.7 billion ....... Disease control, public health and bioterrorism
$29.36 billion ..... Health research and training
$3.01 billion ...... Food safety and occupational health and safety
$10.89 billion ..... Other health care services

Medicare ($345.76 billion)
$182.76 billion .... Hospital insurance (HI)
$115.14 billion .... Supplementary medical insurance (SMI)
$46.7 billion ...... Prescription drug benefit
$1.16 billion ...... Health care fraud

Civilian Retirement (Social Security excluded) ($72.02 billion)
$4.89 billion ...... Civilian retirement and disability insurance
$58.22 billion ..... Federal employee retirement and disability
$8.91 billion ...... Federal employees' and retired employees' health benefits

Aid to Low-Income Families ($206.78 billion)
$38.45 billion ..... Housing assistance
$37.58 billion ..... Food stamps
$19.3 billion ...... Other nutrition programs (WIC, school lunches)
$38.66 billion ..... Supplemental security income (SSI)
$18.21 billion ..... Family support payments (TANF)
$34.05 billion ..... Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
$13.15 billion ..... Child tax credit
$4.8 billion ....... Child care funds
$2.58 billion ...... Other aid to low-income families

General Family Support ($25.62 billion)
$6.56 billion ...... Foster care and adoption assistance
$2.92 billion ...... Child support and family support programs
$16.14 billion ..... Social and family services

Social security ($544.82 billion)
$454.4 billion ..... Old-age and survivors insurance(OASI)
$90.42 billion ..... Disability insurance (DI)

Administration of justice ($43.1 billion)
$11.35 billion ..... Federal law enforcement
$10.46 billion ..... Border security and immigration
$10.91 billion ..... Federal litigation and judicial activities
$6.16 billion ...... Federal prison system
$4.22 billion ...... Criminal justice assistance

General government administration ($17.76 billion)
$3.67 billion ...... Legislative functions
$1.14 billion ...... Executive office programs
$9.8 billion ....... IRS & other fiscal operations
$3.15 billion ...... Other general government

Net_interest_long ($211.08 billion)
$211.08 billion .... Net Interest

Undistributed offsetting receipts and allowance ($-43.99 billion)
$-43.99 billion .... Undistributed offsetting receipts and allowance

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tax Expenditures and Tax Cuts ($1075.13 billion)


2001 and 2003 Tax Cuts ($294.9 billion)
$116.96 billion .... Benefits for Richest 1% of Taxpayers
$28.87 billion ..... Benefits for Next Richest 4%
$58.92 billion ..... Benefits for Next Richest 15%
$43.6 billion ...... Benefits for Next 20% of Taxpayers
$46.55 billion ..... Benefits for Bottom 60% of Taxpayers

Corporate Tax Breaks ($60.36 billion)
$15.74 billion ..... Untaxed Foreign Profits
$9.87 billion ...... R&D Tax Breaks
$4.05 billion ...... Energy, Mining and Timber Tax Breaks
$9.93 billion ...... Tax Free Bonds
$20.77 billion ..... Other Corporate Tax Breaks

Personal Business & Investment Benefits ($86.71 billion)
$30.38 billion ..... Lower tax rates on capital gains (excluding housing)
$28.76 billion ..... Step-up basis of capital gains at death
$23.01 billion ..... Tax-Free Bonds
$1.36 billion ...... Enterprise & Empowerment Zones and New Markets credit
$3.2 billion ....... Other personal investment tax breaks

Pension & Retirement Deductions ($168.47 billion)
$51.05 billion ..... Employer-paid Pensions
$58.12 billion ..... 401Ks & Keogh plans
$7.31 billion ...... IRAs
$29.48 billion ..... Group and personal life insurance benefits
$19.77 billion ..... Untaxed Social Security benefits
$2.74 billion ...... Other retirement benefits

Health Insurance Tax Benefits ($140.99 billion)
$125.69 billion .... Employer-paid Health Insurance
$4.33 billion ...... Self-employed medical insurance premiums
$1.83 billion ...... Medical Savings/Health Savings Accounts
$9.14 billion ...... Deductibility of medical expenses

Housing tax benefits ($163.71 billion)
$76.03 billion ..... Mortgage Interest
$14.83 billion ..... Deductibility of property taxes on homes
$36.27 billion ..... Capital gains exclusion on home sales
$29.72 billion ..... Exclusion of net imputed rental income on owner-occupied homes
$2.11 billion ...... Housing bonds & low-income housing investments
$4.75 billion ...... Exception from passive loss rules for $25,000 of rental loss

Other individual deductions and exemptions ($159.99 billion)
$37.89 billion ..... Charitable contributions
$34.62 billion ..... State and local taxes (w/o home property)
$6.55 billion ...... Soldiers and veterans tax benefits
$5.94 billion ...... Workmen's compensation
$14.01 billion ..... Education deductions and credits
$32.81 billion ..... Child credit
$2.81 billion ...... Child care credits and deductions
$2 billion ......... Deduction for the blind and elderly
$7.86 billion ...... Social Security benefits for disabled and survivors
$3.76 billion ...... Untaxed foreign personal income
$3.28 billion ...... Employee parking and transit expenses
$1.25 billion ...... Adoption and foster care tax credits
$5.42 billion ...... Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)- revenue loss component
$1.79 billion ...... Other fringe benefits

-----------------

New budget is $3748.18 billion
($2673.05 billion in spending, $1075.13 billion in tax expenditures and cuts).

Deficit is $401.04 billion.

National Debt: $9.81 Trillion

Tax Rates


Marginal Tax Rate
           Single                        Married Filing Jointly         Married Filing Separately   Head of Household

10%: $0 – $8,375                $0 – $16,750                    $0 – $8,375                     $0–$11,950

15%: $8,376–$34,000         $16,751–$68,000             $8,376 – $34,000            $11,951–$45,550

25%: $34,001–$82,400       $68,001 – $137,300         $34,001 – $68,650          $45,551–$117,650

28%: $82,401–$171,850     $137,301 – $209,250       $68,651–$104,625         $117,651–$190,550
33%: $171,851–$373,650   $209,251 –$373,650        $104,626–$186,825        $190,551-$373,650
35%: $373,651+                  $373,651+                       $186,826+                       $373,651+


Corporate Tax Rates:
Taxable Income ($) Tax Rate:
 
$0 to 50,000 15%

$50,000 to 75,000 25%

$75,000 to 100,000 34%

$100,000 to 335,000 39%

$335,000 to 10,000,000 34%

$10,000,000 to 15,000,000 35%

$15,000,000 to 18,333,333 38%

$18,333,333 and up 35%

This rate structure produces a flat 34% tax rate on incomes from $335,000 to $10,000,000, gradually increasing to a flat rate of 35% on incomes above $18,333,333.


Estate Tax: 45% on estates above $2 mil

Excise Taxes:
Gas: 18.4 cents/gallon (24.4 cents/gallon for diesel).

Cigarettes: $1 per pack.

All other taxes rates are at RL FY 2010 levels.

Sorry, that's impossible to read. Use a table, please.

I'd be very surprised if the Atlasian tax system recognises marriage - has the government gone back into the marriage business while I wasn't paying attention?

Congratulations on a job well done.

Did it ever formally leave the marriage business. I'm asking seriously rather than snarkily. Note my relatively recent (March, 2009) registration ;). Insight from an old time veteran like yourself would be helpful here.


On behalf of the Committee, Mr. President, thank you very much. :)

Point taken. I'll get on that.

Er, how exactly do I do this? :-[

Nice work so far, Badger.

Thanks, DF. But again, the real thanks go to the whole Committee. :)

Sorry - wasn't trying to be snarky myself - I don't pay enough attention to know for sure.
Anyway, this bill (https://uselectionatlas.org/AFEWIKI/index.php/Elimination_of_Civil_Marriage_Law_and_Establishment_of_Civil_Unions_Act) was what I was thinking of.

Interesting point (and not taken as snarkily; I was referring to my question and trying to phrase it in a way that didn't sound like I was being bitchy ;)). Still, from my brief review of Article 2 it appears "marriages" are still in effect, but just all relabeled as "civil unions". So I'd guess the same laws apply, but the term "marriage" is just legally anachronistic rather than void.

I suppose I'd be willing to update the terminology when I rehash the chart into a table as True Con suggested again, once someone can show me how to do that. :-[

EDIT: One can also review a more legible readout of the tax rates at the source, linked here:
https://uselectionatlas.org/AFEWIKI/index.php/Fiscal_Responsibility_Act

Indeed


This (https://uselectionatlas.org/FORUM/index.php?action=help;page=post#bbcref) explains most of the posting button things, the 3 table buttons (create table; create row; create column) are explained therein.

Invasion of the Body Scanners

(AMPG) This weekend passengers aboard Flight 345 from Nyman raised their voices in protest today against what they deemed invasive body scans and pat downs. Flight protesters complained that scans and pat downs made them feel "violated". Many have lodged complaints at the office of Secretary of Internal Affairs Doctor Cynic.

"We feel that the Secretary doesn't care about our civil liberties despite his long talk of it. We demand that his office bring an end to this invasive procedure," one passenger commented.

Pilots and staff reported passengers becoming "visibly unruly and belligerent" on board the plane soon after being subjected to new TSA security procedures including frisks and full body scans of randomly selected flyers. The flight's departure was delayed by over 90 minutes as TSA air marshalls were dispatched to the plane. Passengers report the marshalls spoke to passengers urging calm and the flight eventually proceded to its destination in Detroit without further incident. No arrests were reported.

This latest disturbance follows a week of reported disturbances at airports around the nation resulting in multiple passengers being denied admittance to their flights after refusing to submit to body scans. At least 3 subjects have been arrested in separate incidents at LaGuardia Airport in New York and Peter International in Chicago following conflicts with TSA security staff.

The Internal Affairs Office has been requested for a statement, as has noted TSA critic Senator Libertas (POP: At-large).

A statement will be issued immidiately to deal with this issue from my office. We'd like the AMPG to know that we will be working diligently to address everyone's concerns.

SoIA Dr. Cynic Responds to TSA Controversy:

(AMPG) Moments ago the Secretary Dr. Cynic issued a written statement regarding ongoing complaints over new TSA security measures for airplane passengers:


Other updates to follow as this story develops.

President Fritz Ends TSA Body Scans; Legislation Introduced to Ban TSA

(AMPG) Following recent controversies over new TSA screening procedures for air travelers, President Fritz announced his administration would adopt the recommendations of SoIA Dr. Cynic to end the practice of full body scans of passengers. The President stated:


All the while, legislation was introduced in the Senate today to abolish the TSA. In the early morning hours the office of Senator Libertas (POP: At-Large) notified the AMPG that he would be introducing such legislation at earliest opportunity. Shortly afterwards the following bill was filed in the Senate's legislation que.


No comment has yet been issued from the Administration regarding this proposal. Senate sources are unsure whether the measure will be brought to the Senate floor for debate before the Thanksgiving holiday.

BREAKING NEWS: TSA Chief, Deputy, Director of Security All Resign in Protest

TSA Administrator "Incredibly Furious" at Sudden Policy Change & Absence of Communication

(APMG) The Atlasian Mustelid Post Gazette has learned that the TSA Administrator, Deputy Administrator and Assistant Administrator for Security Operations have all tendered their immediate resignations to the Office of Internal Affairs. According to letters submitted by the resigning administrators, their actions are in response to the Fritz Administration's abrupt termination of using full body scans and more therough frisking of airline passengers. The letters cited an absence  of consultation or communication with TSA officials before the Administration's recent change in policy.

A high level TSA employee familiar with the situation stated the TSA Administrator was "incredibly furious" when he learned of the change in his department's security procedures while watching the evening news at home.

Another source close to one of the resigned administrators described deep frustration at the sudden reversal of a policy described as "meticulously developed".

"The new body scan and frisk standards and technology were studied and developed for nearly a year before implementation. Then after all that review, training, and purchasing technology the policy is scraped at the drop of a hat without a single inquiry to the [TSA]."

Apparently the Fritz Administration's lack of consultation was as concerning to TSA leaders as the policy change. The Source continued:"Yes, the change in policy is bad and will only increase the risk to air passengers and crew. But just as frustrating was the IA Office and President never even gave us a chance to explain why it is such a dangerous policy change."

When asked for an opinion on public controversy over the recently instituted security procedures, the TSA official acknowledged concern, but also stood by the procedures as necessary. "No one at the agency wants to implement these procedures out of prurient interest. It was only instituted to avoid situations like the near tragedy of the underwear bomber. We instituted these policies because we had to in order to keep passengers lives safe."

Umar Abdul Mutallab is a Nigerian citizen who attempted to detonate plastic explosives hidden in his underwear while on board Northwest Airlines Flight 253, en route from Amsterdam to Detroit on Christmas last year. He was subdued by passengers and currently charged with six criminal counts, including attempted use of a weapon of mass destruction and attempted murder of 289 people.

Controversy erupted last week when TSA security procedures were implemented at airports including the use of technology allowing security officials to view full body scan of passengers and more intrusive body frisks. Many have complained against the new procedures calling them overly intrusive. Polls currently show the public split near evenly on support or opposition to the new procedures.

Pursuant to civil service guidelines, TSA leadership will fall on an acting basis to the senior Assistant Administrator, and Security Operations will be headed by the resigned Assistant Administrator's deputy, until when and if the SoIA should make permanent appointments to those positions.

When asked, SoIA Dr. Cynic declined statement on the matter until he could fully brief President Fritz on these developments.

Internal Affairs Office Sources say Secretary Dr. Cynic may support legislation abolishing TSA.

(APMG) Well-placed sources at the Ministry of Internal Affairs report SoIA Dr. Cynic may come out in support of recently introduced legislation to abolish the TSA.

Today Senator Libertas (POP: At-Large) introduced legislation to abolish the TSA. To the surprise of some Nyman analysts, The liberal Secretary may join the hardline controversial Populares Senator. The Secretary's reported support comes on the heels of a growing fracture between the TSA and IA Office leading to recent resignations of top TSA officials disgruntled at the sudden policy changes regarding airline security procedures, and the purported lack of communication from the Fritz Administration in reaching that decision.

Ministry officials close to the Secretary say his "He won't shed a tear if the TSA is banned, because the administration will then look to hire private security firms which we will compel them to follow along with our guidelines."

If true, Dr. Cynic would be the second prominent liberal to come out in support of the measure following the unexpected endorsement by Senator Snowguy (JCP: Midwest).

The Secretary could not confirm or deny his reported support of the TSA abolition bill. The Ministry support did not indicate whether President Fritz might share Secretary Dr. Cynic's support of the measure.

Economy Worsens:

The latest national economic numbers from the Office of the GM/Bureau of Labor and Economic Statistics.

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE: 8.8% (previous month: 8.5%)

ANNUAL GDP GROWTH RATE: 1.1% (previous month: 1.5%

CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (ANNUAL RATE): 1.1% (unchanged from last month)

ANSE INDEX: 831.19 (down 66.94 from last week).

The GM's Office notes this is the largest single month increase in unemployment in over 5 years.

The GM's Office further plans to report these individual economic figures individually on a weeklyish basis rather than altogether monthly.

As I told the Internal Affairs Secretary, my office is composing a bill, but my staff went on holiday till Monday. ;) I think I should fire some of them, but that would only make the problem worse, wouldn't it?

TSA Resignations Rescinded

TSA Security Procedures to Continue For Now With Modifications

(AMPG) The President and SoIA's meeting with TSA administrators last week resulted in TSA airline security procedures being re-instituted with modifications, and the administrators rescinding their previously submitted resignations. The late night negotiations were held in a booth at the Original Hot Dog Shop on the University of Pittsburgh campus and lasted several hours. Afterwards statements were issued by both parties announcing a successful agreement had been reached.

By virtue of the agreement electronic full body scans of random airline and train passengers would continue, though full body frisks would be limited to those travellers who either choose such a procedure in lieu of a body scan or who display reasonable and articulable suspicion of criminal activity such as having suspicious items revealed by a body scan. The TSA will also immediately implement training and procedures to make such body frisks less invasive and to secure any short term record of body scans from public dissemination before being destroyed.

The TSA Administrator, Deputy Administrator, and Assistant Administrator for Security Operations all took part in the meeting after submitting their resignations a week ago in response to the Fritz Administration's indicating an abrupt suspension of the recently implemented TSA security procedures. Such procedures led to public concern over invasions of travellers privacy. The administrators indicated they are satisfied with the outcome and ready to return to work.

"We at the TSA understand the concern over privacy rights, and promise to immediately implement better training of our officers to avoid horror stories such have been reported recently, while still doing all we can to ensure the safety of passengers and crew on airlines and trains", the TSA Administrator stated.

A bill still is pending in the Senate to abolish the TSA and is expected to proceed to a vote on the Senate floor notwithstanding this agreement. President Fritz has promised to veto the bill if passed.

Majority of Public Support TSA Body Scans at Airports

Public Divided Over Body Frisks

A recent poll (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/11/22/AR2010112205514.html) shows nearly two-thirds of those surveyed said they supported the Transportation Security Administration’s use of full-body X-ray scans. But support for the “aggressive” pat-downs was more tepid — just under half of those polled said they were “justified.”

The recent poll showed a 2-1 support for body scans, with 64% in support and 32% opposed. This level of support is down, however, from the 81% support of such scans recorded at the beginning of the month before their use was widely implemented and became a source of controversy.

When it comes to pat-downs for those who turn down the X-rays or fail them, Atlasians were divided. In the poll 48 percent said the procedures are “justified,” while 50 percent said the pat-downs “go too far.”

This poll was taken prior to the recent negotiations between the Fritz Administration and TSA administrators which resulted in implementation of additional training and restrictions on the use of body frisks.

Although the poll repeatedly included the typo of referring to "Americans" instead of "Atlasians", AMPG staff closely reviewed the results and poll methodology and found the numbers were nevertheless correctly calculated. ;D

As a sort of meta-question here related to the role of the GM and the powers of the President, with regard to the TSA affair and the rescinded resignations - was this simply the case that the President declared he successfully negotiated their rescision and you as GM went along with that (or felt you had to) - or was there a behind the scenes discussion between the President and yourself about how that might happen?

There was a simulated conversation involving the President, the GM and myself.

Cool :)
Thanks Cynic

"Simulated"? I was yelling at my monitor as I typed, Doc. ;)

NOTICE OF TEMPORARY ABSENCE

I'm leaving after work tomorrow for a prosecutors conference out of town, and don't expect to be back until Sunday. As I don't own a laptop I'll have minimal contact with the forum from tomorrow afternoon until Monday.

See you all then. Please play nice.

Even though you will be gone this week, I would like to make a formal request to the GM to review our regional budget numbers and give us a report to help guide us in our first budget.

Thank you.

Your gov already has, and I PM'd him about the delay about 10 minutes ago, A-Bob.
;)

Next week, I promise.

STOCK MARKET FALLS SHARPLY

(AMPG) After gradually dropping most of the previous two weeks, the ANSE Index declined heavily on Friday to 742.30. This is a drop of almost 90 points, or more than 10% of the Index's value, in just under two weeks. 37.23 points were lost on the Index on Friday alone before the closing bell ended what traders were calling "Black Friday". When pointed out that Black Friday already referred to the start of the 1929 Stock Market Crash, traders amended their description of the event to "a really sh$%ty day".

Comments from market leaders were unavailable, as the persons contacted by the AMPG were either crying to hard to understand, incomprehensibly drunk, or were reported by secretaries to have thrown themselves from their office windows.

I will be releasing a poll soon that shows far different numbers ;)

BREAKING NEWS: STOCK MARKET IN FREEFALL MONDAY.

(AMPG) Stocks suffered an historic single day declines as the ANSE Index dropped 53.12 points Monday before closing at 689.18. The loss of over 7% comes on the heels of a decline of more than 37 points on Friday, resulting in a two day cumulative loss of over 11.5% of the market's value.

Initial reports do not indicate any specific transaction or weak sector of the market, as losses were largely uniform. Nervous investors are awaiting the ANSE opening on Wednesday.

BREAKING NEWS: STOCKS REBOUND DRAMATICALLY

MARKET FLUCTUATES WILDLY OVER THE COURSE OF WEEK.

(AMPG) The ANSE Index rose a staggering 97.20 points Tuesday, closing at 786.38 after days of sharp losses. The rise of approximately 13% is the third largest single day percentage gain in market history. The market returns to the same approximate strength from late last week, but still down nearly 10% from only two weeks ago.

Traders credit the recent heavy drops in stock prices as having resulted in badly undervalued stocks leading to what one broker called "a feeding frenzy" of buying activity on the trading floor.

Industry analysts, while initially puzzled at the lack of any reaction from the Fritz Administration or Senate at the market having the real life equivalent of a nearly 3000 point drop a loss of almost a quarter of the market's value in less than 3 weeks, now believe the government's lack of reaction to be justified by funeral ceremonies/celebrations over the recent death of Senator Libertas (POP: At-Large). An ANSE spokesperson expressed confidence, stating: "There's no reason for the government to impose new burdensome regulations here. These recent heavy fluctuations were merely the invisible hand of the market at work. I'm certain such heavy losses without following recovery gains will never, ever, ever happen again."

Oh now that certainly doesn't contain any excessive hyperbole at all. :P

Good point, Yank. It wouldn't be the slightest bit a bludgeon like hint at all.....

ECONOMIC OUTLOOK REPORT OF THE FEDERAL RESERVE BANK---DEC, 2010.

The Atlasian economy weakened markedly in the second half of 2010 as the turmoil in financial markets intensified, credit conditions tightened further, and asset values continued to slump. Conditions in the labor market worsened significantly after early autumn, and nearly all major sectors of the economy registered steep declines in activity late this year. Meanwhile, inflation pressures diminished appreciably as prices of energy and other commodities dropped sharply.

Given the strength of the forces weighing on the economy, Reserve Board members view the outlook as having weakened significantly in recent months. Participants generally expected economic activity to contract sharply in the near term and then to move onto a path of gradual recovery, bolstered by monetary easing, government efforts to stabilize financial markets, and fiscal stimulus. A minority report of the Board, however, states that the greatest threat to growth and economic stability is the rapidly growing national debt. This report states that addressing continued growth of government spending and deficits has been delayed too long and the government's heavy borrowing now not only diminishes available credit for economic expansion, but fundamentally undermines confidence in the government's credit rating and solvency.

LEADING ECONOMIC INDICATORS DECLINE HEAVILY:

REPORTS INDICATE LEAK OF REPORT HELPED FUEL STOCK MARKET DROP

(AMPG) Measurements of Leading Economic Indicators (LEI) for Atlasia decreased by 1.2 percent in November to 101.2 (2004 = 100), raising concerns over a renewed recession. Rapidly declining consumer confidence is primarily blamed for the fall. The drop reported yesterday is one of the largest single month declines in LEI Index history.

In related news, rumors circulated on Wall Street that the pessimistic new report was learned of in advance by some traders leading to huge drops in the ANSE Index in the last week. Multiple brokerage firm spokespersons declined to comment for this story, but one long time and respected trader who declined to be identified stated: "This was apparently fell in somebody's lap and was supposed to be used by a few business colleagues, but by noontime Monday the [LEI] report was the worst kept secret on the [ANSE] floor".

The leaked report's damage to stock prices appears to have already been inflicted, as the ANSE Index dropped just under 3% to 764.27, down 22.11 points from Tuesday's close. When asked how the Index would likely proceed from this point one respected market analyst opined "F%$k all if anyone has a clue".

Ah, so you've hit the stage of repeating that there's a crisis?

I think he's in a better place than earlier GMs, if only for the fact that as a former GM and a cranky retired president I have made it my singular mission to ensure that GM dispatches are taken seriously and noticed by the government and the people.

REGIONAL UNEMPLOYMENT RATES: DEC 2010

Northeast: 7.8%

Mideast: 9.2%

Southeast: 8.6%

Midwest: 7.0%

Pacific: 10.4%

Aw damn it. ;D

Yep. sucks to be Cali nowadays. :(

STOCKS CONTINUE SLIDE AMID WEAKENING ECONOMIC GROWTH:

(AMPG) Stocks closed over 4% lower Wednesday after the government announced economic growth came to a near standstill in November. The ANSE Index dropped 31.04 points to close at 733.23. The a surge of selling started shortly after noon when the Bureau of Labor Statistics announced the national GDP grew a mere 0.3% in November. While government economists were quick to note such stagnant growth does not technically constitute a recession, AMPG analysts were pessimistic for a reversal of such unfavorable trends in coming months.

Haha!

We're the best (or lowest, which means best) ;D

CRAP.

STOCK MARKET HITS SLIDE AGAIN:

Potential Embargo of Foreign Oil Creates Jitters Throughout Economy:

(AMPG) Investors panicked at the potential of an oil embargo against many of Atlasias biggest energy suppliers sent stocks into a tailspin Friday, as stocks dropped 28.12 points before closing at 705.11. The drop spanned almost every sector of the economy as traders braced for a possible heavy spike in gas prices.

A trader from one of the larger trading firms was quoted: "Just when we're barely coming out of one of the most volatile 3 weeks in decades, and the government decides to seriously consider stopping oil imports from Saudi Arabia and Nigeria? This is decidedly not what the market needed now."

"Please just give us stability. Tax us, don't tax us, just for the love of Mary be consistent!"

AMPG's market analyst was found at his favorite barstool and stated: "An oil shortage and price jump hits everything from agriculture to manufacturing, to every item in the economic chain that has to be shipped from point of origin. In other words, everything. And where are we going to replace it? Canada already ships us every spare drop of oil they produce or import. Mexico lacks the extra refining capacity, Venezuela isn't any better, and would involve kowtowing to Chavez. On top of that the timing of the economy slowing markedly is just awful."

"This could get really ugly."

One sector spared the drop were energy companies without major Saudi or Nigerian investments, which rose to somewhat counter the market's general drop. The spokesperson of one such company stated: "This bill will be a boon for Atlasian energy producers and consumers alike in the long run. We can finally reinvest in domestic exploration and refining to remove our dangerous dependence."

The spokesman continued: "I gotta hand it to Senator Bgwah. He knows what he's doing here. Now that we can drill in ANWR there'll be plenty of opportunity to......he did what? Introduced a bill to ban what?!? SON OF A B$%^&!"

Some traders were more sanguine about the bill's potential effects. One trader stated on condition of anonymity: "Sure, cutting oil imports by a quarter on its face would be lousy for the economy, but will this bill really accomplish that? The Saudis and Nigerians will have to dump their oil somewhere on the commodities market and that'll lower prices for their other non-Atlasian buyers and loosen up supply elsewhere. Yes, Atlasia will wind up paying through the nose, but it won't be quite the quarter decrease in supply everyone's talking about. I personally plan on making a killing when prices rise after this overreaction. I'll buy off the panickers like there was no tomorrow. Um, this is all off the record, right? Oh, good."

Chavez is no longer in power for the record.

Don't tell me we overthrew him ! :o

Colombia did after the two countries went to war.

maybe he got back in power or something

LOL ;D When did it happen ?

When I was GM. Find the Atlasia Dispatch-Herald, about midway through maybe?

Thanks for the correction. Before my time. The AMPG contacted the market analyst for a correction who blamed the mistake on too much Johnny Walker.

The analyst concedes the error, but notes that even upon further (sober) review of data his original assessment of the lack of available supply and refining capabilities in Venezuela does not change his underlying prognosis.

Stocks Rise With Amendment of Human Rights Act:

(AMPG) Stocks are enjoying one of their best days this month following the Senate's passage of an amendment to the Human Rights Act which would not mandate trade embargoes against some of Atlasia's largest energy suppliers. The ANSE Index is up over 15 points as of noontime today.

The original act would have mandated a trade embargo against any country mandating the death penalty for homosexuality, which would have included Saudi Arabia and Nigeria which together provide over a quarter of the nation's imported crude oil. While jitters over the bill's potential passage sparked a selloff earlier this week, investors were heartened by news an amendment was passed by the Senate late last night amending the Act to simply allow asylum of persons from such countries persecuted for their sexual orientation.

Market insiders say this turns a corner in the economy and nothing bad could possibly happen in the forseeable future.

BREAKING NEWS: MARKET PANICS OVER RUMORS FROM CHINA!

Investors Cry: "What the f$#k?!?"

(APMG) Reports from the market floor indicate a sudden flurry of selling, threatening to reverse gains made by the ANSE Index earlier this morning. The chaotic nature on the trading floor make it impossible to determine what exactly is going on this moment. One hysterical trader was heard screaming as he ran by: "They're cutting the purse strings! They're cutting us off! The Chine.....".

Details to follow after the AMPG Employee Christmas Party this afternoon.

Oh This can't be good.

CHINESE GOVERNEMENT IN DEBATE TO SLASH LENDING TO ATLASIA:

Negotiations Within Government Reportedly "Highly Volatile".

Stocks Fluctuate Wildly, Then Drop.

(AMPG) Reporters have learned the highest levels of the Chinese government are seriously considering a move to drastically reduce, or even eliminate, further lending to finance the Atlasian national debt. While no decision has been announced, insiders report meetings have been held by top officials in the PRC establishment all week.

SoEA Hashemite is currently in China on an East Asian diplomatic tour. EA Office spokespersons declined to comment whether the Secretary's presence in the country was related to the ongoing debate, but confirmed "the matter was being addressed and an open line of discussion is being conducted".

Economists expressed deep concern over the effects such a move by the PRC would have on the Atlasian economy. AMPG reporters sought comment from prominent Nyman economists, but all were discovered to be frantically divesting their retirement accounts so reporters spoke to a teaching assistant playing Warcraft. "We simply don't have sufficient control over government spending and revenue to ween ourselves from foreign financing of our debt. There's serious question as to whether the additional lending reserves world wide could pick up the slack, even after Chinese lending was re-routed elsewhere into the markets."

The TA expert explained the possible ramifications: "At minimum this would sharply increase intrest rates, not only for the government debt, but for the much much larger private markets as well. This is the last thing the economy needs right now. That's actually not the worst case scenario".

"Even a partial default on a portion of the debt, while not at all likely, is at least an outside chance."

The highly skilled and learned expert continued: "The real question is why they're doing this?" This would severely hurt the Chinese economy as well. They make good money off the interest and, more importantly, rely on Atlasian borrowing and consumption to fuel their economic growth. They're in a much better position than we are currently with average GDP growth around 8%, but this could put even their economy into recession by putting ours in depression. Hey, you won't tell anyone I'm using a lab computer for this, right? I mean I'm not supposed to and those could cost my job, and my mother is sick so any publicity would completely ruin m..."

The AMPG foreign affairs analyst is on vacation for the holidays in a remote cabin, and when contacted back merely texted back: "The Chinese motivation here isn't economics. Quite the opposite actually. Figure it out. Now f#$k off so I can get back to my hot tub".

Stocks tumbled dramatically upon the news, only to recover upon hearing the Atlasian government was involved in negotiations with the PRC, only for stocks to plummet just before close upon learning the negotiations were being led by Hashemite. "He speaks French!" one trader exclaimed, "He'll surrender within the first 10 minutes!".

UNEMPLOYMENT CONTINUES TO RISE; REACHES 9%

The Atlasian GM's Office announces that national unemployment has reached 9.0% as of December, up 0.2% from last month. Likewise, the Regional unemployment numbers for December have had to be similarly readjusted to account for heavy job losses during the latter part of the month. The post holiday shedding of jobs has far exceeded seasonal adjustments, indicating businesses may be planning retrenchment rather than expansion during the foreseeable future.

ADJUSTED REGIONAL UNEMPLOYMENT RATES: DEC 2010

Northeast: 8.0%

Mideast: 9.4%

Southeast: 8.8%

Midwest: 7.2%

Pacific: 10.6%
 

What portions of the Northeast have the highest unemployment rate?

Also how easy is it to keep financing our debt? Have bond prices risen for the Northeast? Or are we in better shape than Atlasia at large?

Regarding what portions (states, I assume) of the region have the highest unemployment, please refer to the following RL figures I based the regional report on:

http://www.bls.gov/lau/home.htm

These RL numbers are based on a 9.6% national unemployment rate vs. Atlasia's 9.0% rate, but simply subtract 0.6% from these RL figures and that approximates the current Atlasian state unemployment rates. Ditto for any info found in the links on that page re: metropolitan unemployment rates.

Regarding financing of the region's debt, well, that's rather hard to answer without even a rudimentary budget and statement of debt, isn't it? ;) More on that to come later today in the federal stimulus bill thread.

Re: Bond prices, I'm going to say that as RL 30 year T-Bonds are actually trading at about the same value as 5 years ago after dropping dramatically during the 08-09 economic crisis, though there is a marked drop in value during that same period for 5 yr T-Notes, the short answer to your question is: No, there is no significantly different challenge to financing your debt now than in the past few years. However this is contingent upon the obvious risks and interest burdens incurred by any financing of government debt and--more importantly--is directly related to the size of that currently undetermined amount of incurred debt and annual deficit (if any).

Well, it seems like China is going to cut us off. I was wondering how that was affecting the regions.

Thanks for the answer. I think you are doing a really great job, Badger. I approve. :)

OMG, China! I've let Hashemite have the holidays off for negotiations:

https://uselectionatlas.org/FORUM/index.php?topic=127840.msg2766043#msg2766043

(it IS just a game after all :P) and accordingly put the hell the stock market is going through into "suspended animation" until after New Years. I accordingly put it so far out of my mind until then I didn't even consider the crisis the ongoing crisis in my answer to your query. :-[

Let me alter my answer to one that is equally applicable and important to EVERY region and the federal government as well (hint, hint):

The PRC's intention to reduce or cut off funding the Atlasian national debt has NOT been confirmed. It HAS been confirmed however that there are powerful forces in the PRC leadership actively pushing right now for such a move despite the detrimental effect on their own economic growth. (So....why? ???).

IF this measure is adopted by the PRC, though, depending on the severity of any cuts in Chinese financing our national debt, between substantial to outright elimination, in that case our ability to keep financing our regional and national debt--according to the verbatim analysis of the best economists and financial minds in the country--ranges between "fu$%ed" and "fist-fu#$ed".

But no pressure, Hash. ;)

Hey all:

I've actually accomplished a bit behind the scenes for the Mideast Budget, but things here have been quiet. I apologize, but the last week has been tmostly aken up with the care and grieving of our older cat who passed peacefully yesterday. :'( Eulogy and photo to hopefully be posted in Forum Community Board tomorrow.

Sorry about the delay. Give me a day or two to dig out and I should be back to full duty.

Chinese Capital Emerges From Three Weeks of Suspended Animation:

"Well, that was weird", say Beijing residents after hiatus.

(AMPG) The Chinese government and foreign diplomats have just emerged from a strange unexplainable anomaly where time apparently froze for approximately three weeks. Beijing residents and government officials recovered from the inexplicable phenomenon only within the last 24 hours. Government officials and citizens alike appear little phased by the mystery and seem ready to get back to work.

Wall Street analysts were likewise apparently unfazed by the matter. Stated one: "Hey, the longer time froze the longer we weren't looking at the market falling into a chasm. I'd be fine if it lasted three months. But now things are hitting the fan on the trading floor again as everyone is unsure what the outcome will be".

SoEA Hashemite and GTO Ambassador Ben have both been in Beijing for negotiations over reports the Chinese government is considering a deep cuts in financing the Atlasian national debt, and were both likewise apparently affected by the strange three week period of stasis. When reached for comment, both merely stated: "Huh? Wha? What day is this? Is it time to get ready for Christmas yet?"

Translation: After giving Hash the holidays off and my distraction for personal matters, negotiations in this ongoing crisis have resumed and any further developments will proceed accordingly without delay. ;)

Consumer Price Index Drops

The Bureau of Labor Statistics today announced the annual rate of inflation dropped one tenth of a percent from last month, falling from 1.1% to an even 1 percent annual rate.

When asked for comment, economists universally said: "Meh."

I must congratulate you, Badger, on your work on foreign policy entries, which are essential part of the FPRA :)

TALKS WITH CHINESE BREAKING DOWN?

REPORTS SAY LEVEL OF NEGOTIATIONS 'MINIMAL'.

"Hell on Earth" predicted when markets open Monday.

(AMPG--Beijing) Insiders privy to the Sino-Atlasian talks from inside the Chinese capital say there has been little accomplished in the 'minimal' neogtiations undertaken, and the PRC government appears ready to move forward on deciding whether to cut off financing of the national debt.

Members of both the Atlasian and Chinese diplomatic community report there has been little of substantive discussion between the Chinese Politburo leaders and the American diplomatic delegation lead by SoEA Hashemite and GTO Ambassador Ben. "There doesn't seem to have been much effort to actually sit down with the PRC leadership and discuss matters in a back and forth dialogue." one Chinese diplomat stated under conditions of anonymity out of fear he would be tortured with dripping water on his forehead by a stereotype with a ridiculously long moustache. "All factions of the PRC seem ready to write off Atlasian involvement and move on to a policy decision".

An Atlasian source calls the situation "A potentially missed huge opportunity to avoid catastrophe".

The ANSE was closed today, but traders in Hong Kong and Tokyo engaged in a sharp sell-off when the news from Beijing hit the trading floor shortly before the closing bell. "Thank God markets are closed tomorrow", one Atlasian trader in Asia commented, "because Monday is going to be hell on earth for Wall Street". There were unconfirmed rumors among traders President Fritz was considering closing the ANSE and other stock exchanges Monday to avoid a panic.

The AMPG considered contacting SoEA Hashemite, GTO Ambassador Ben, and the White House for comment, as would only be appropriate for even the most basic exercise of journalistic ethics, but reporters were distracted by a bar offering half off on single malt scotch instead.

/facepalm

TALKS IN CHINA RESUME!

(AMPG--Beijing) Reports have confirmed that the previously stalled Sino-Atlasian talks have resumed. No further details are known at this time, but reports will continue as information is obtained.....

???

We've known about this for a month at least and done nothing...

I'd say that's pretty /facepalm worthy.

That is blatantly false.

I wouldn't say "nothing" has been done. But I think more could have been done to resolve the crisis by now.

FTR, complaints from diplomatic hacks were more concerned with the method of negotiations rather than the lack of work. And don't forget, grossly unjustified slander by jealous careerists could be the source (or maybe not ;), history will judge). Likewise, occasional reports of unsubstantiated rumors aren't impossible either as being quite "realistic". (How's that presidential shut down of the stock market working? ;) I was surprised President Fritz didn't blast that to smithereens in a press release).

BTW: I was home sick with the flu yesterday and have a busy afternoon in court today. I hope to continue the negotiations on behalf of the Chinese by tomorrow if I can't get to it tonight.

I'm a little confused why we're letting China blackmail us.

BREAKING NEWS: LARGE EXPLOSION AT GTO HQ---TERRORISM SUSPECTED!

(AMPG-Nyman) A large explosion occurred moments ago at the Global Treaty Organization headquarters in downtown Nyman. Reporters were notified minutes beforehand that the building was being evacuated after receiving a bomb threat. Employees were seen rapidly fleeing the area moments before the blast. The scale of damage observed to the GTO building and grounds appears considerable. No information regarding casualties are available, though AMPG staff report some bystanders are injured and ambulances are arriving on scene.

More to follow as this story develops.

"REALITY OR NOTHING" ORGANIZATION CLAIMS RESPONSIBILITY FOR BOMBING OF GTO.

MULTIPLE INJURIES CONFIRMED AT BLAST SITE; HEAVY DAMAGE INFLICTED TO GTO BUILDING.

(AMPG--Nyman) The Atlasian Mustiled Post Gazette has received a telephone message from a person claiming to represent the previously little known organization "Reality Or Nothing" and claiming its group's responsibility for this morning's apparent bombing attack at the Global Treaty Organization headquarters. AMPG staff have not yet confirmed the veracity of this claim, but has learned from multiple GTO staff members that the bomb threat received minutes before the blast was likewise from a caller identifying themselves as a member of Reality Or Nothing. Copies of the message are being provided to law enforcement before public publishment later.

Current reports of injuries claim at least a dozen people injured, with several transported by ambulance to nearby hospitals. There are no confirmed deaths at this time, though not all GTO staff have been accounted for.

Police have cordoned off multiple blocks around the blast site, but observers confirm the GTO headquarters appears to have suffered significant structural damage, particularly on the side including the main public entrance.

More reports to come as information develops.

Arrest Al!

Then what?

Yes!

He tried to fly country, now we know WHY!

Charge?

I'll be introducing legislation to invade Scotland and bring Al to justice ASAP.

I've been shot by Reality or Nothing. Only in the shoulder, but still...

You have the unequivocal support of the Jake Matthews for Assembly campaign.

AMPG EXCLUSIVE: R.O.N. MESSAGE CLAIMING RESPONSIBILITY FOR GTO BOMBING REVEALED!

(AMPG) The Atlasian Mustelid Post Gazette has transcribed the message received by a caller purportedly representing the organization Reality Or Nothing and claiming responsibility for today's bombing of the Global Treaty Organization headquarters in Nyman. The message, received only several minutes after the explosion is as follows:

"Message from the Nyman Section of Reality Or Nothing

We would like to announce that the recent explosion at the GTO Headquarters was the work of two of our agents.

Atlasia has a choice. It can accept Reality or it can prepare for a wave of terrorist attacks and political violence aimed at bringing down the State. We shall have Reality or you shall have Nothing.

Reality Or Nothing regrets any civilian casualties resulting from our campaign of ultimate liberation, but lays the blame squarely at the foot of the Atlasian Establishment. It is our duty to resist them, by any and all means necessary."

A government spokesperson declined to confirm that RON was indeed believed to be responsible for the bombing, saying: "The investigation is obviously in the beginning stage and the law enforcement community is keeping all avenues of inquiry open".

Little is known of this new organization or its aims. Previously unknown, RON only recently made its first public announcement through its spokesperson, longtime Atlasian leftist political figure Al "Realpolitik" Widdershins. Neither Al nor any other identifiable RON official could be contacted by press time for comment or confirmation of responsibility for the bombing.

SEVERAL SERIOUS INJURIES CONFIRMED.

GTO BUILDING "ALMOST ONE-THIRD DEMOLISHED".

An spokesperson for Nyman Emergency Services stated the GTO headquarters appears to have suffered significant and fundamental structural damage. "The whole from third of the building is nearly blown away. The other parts are standing for now, but its making clearing the rubble and searching the building touch and go to say the least."

There are over a dozen confirmed individuals hospitalized for injuries as of press time, including at least 3 in critical condition. There are no confirmed deaths, however. It appears larger casualties were largely avoided by quick evacuation of the GTO building after a bomb threat was phoned in at approximately 10:00 this morning, about 10 minutes before the explosion occurred.

Officials decline to speculate as to the type or placement of explosive device used, but AMPG reporters have spoken to several eyewitnesses who report the blast came from or immediately by a truck parked near the main building entrance.

GTO BOMBING VICTIM DIES.

Woman is First Confirmed Death in Attack.

(AMPG) Hospital authorities have confirmed that a 53 year old Nyman woman injured in Tuesday morning's bombing of Global Treaty Organization headquarters has died of her wounds. Nyman Metro Hospital's media liaison told reporters this morning that 53 year old Millicent Cooper died overnight as a result of head trauma and other injuries inflicted in the explosion. Cooper was transported from the bombing site by ambulance after the attack and had been previously listed in critical condition.

Cooper, known as "Millie" to family and friends, was a senior manager in the GTO accounting department for 17 years. She is survived by 3 children, 8 grandchildren, and 2 siblings. She was preceded in death by her husband who died of cancer in 1999. The family has declined public statement at this time. AMPG sources among both emergency responders and eyewitnesses claim that Cooper was outside the building when the bomb detonated, but was apparently still close enough to have been hit by shrapnel and debris, as were several others in the immediate vicinity.

Cooper is the first confirmed death from Tuesday's bombing, for which unidentified callers have claimed responsibility on behalf of the organization Reality Or Nothing. RON's participation in the bombing has not yet been confirmed or denied by either government investigators or RON officials. Thus far at least 15 others were also hospitalized for injuries. Several of those injured have been released after treatment, though at least 2 still remain in critical condition.

I am officially reporting my Assistant Public Relations Manager, Mitch Devereaux, missing. Mitch was last seen at the Solstice Coffee Shop, which is located just 2 buildings away from the GTO building. If anyone hears anything of his whereabouts, please contact me immediately. Thank you dearly.

-Jake Matthews
Populares Party candidate for Northeast Assembly

Mitch has been found alive.

-Jake Matthews
Populares Party candidate for Northeast Assembly

GTO EXPLOSION WAS TRUCK BOMB

EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS OF DETONATION

(AMPG-Nyman) Government investigators confirmed this morning that Tuesday's terrorist attack at Global Treaty Organization headquarters in Nyman was the result of a large truck bomb detonated near the main building entrance. An ATF spokesman told reporters at a press conference their investigation has "concluded with certainty" that the blast stemmed from a truck parked outside which detonated nearly ten minutes after a bomb threat was phoned in to building security. The spokesman declined to rule out any additional explosive detonations inside the building, saying that could not be ruled out until a more therough examination of the dangerously unstable building interior could be completed.

The Atlasia Mustiled Post Gazette has obtained exclusive images of the truck and subsequent explosion taken from a nearby security camera.

()

Police and federal officials declined statement regarding potential suspects, stating that while no one has been taken into custody as yet they are "still exploring all avenues of investigation". Officials likewise refused to confirm whether they have determined the organization Reality Or Nothing is indeed responsible for the attack as anonymous callers to the GTO building and AMPG claimed before and after the explosion.

Tuesday's bombing has killed at least 1 and hospitalized 15, plus nearly demolishing the GTO headquarters. Three more of the victims were released from the hospital in the last 24 hours, while 2 others were upgraded from critical to serious condition. Another Nyman man remains in critical condition. Police also report there are still several individuals reported missing and believed to have possibly been at or near the GTO building Tuesday morning.

"PERSON OF INTEREST" SOUGHT IN GTO BOMBING

(AMPG) Federal and state law enforcement agencies have announced they are seeking a missing Interior Department employee as a "person of interest" in last week's bombing of Global Treaty Organization headquarters in Nyman. Authorities believe Colin Hart Nickell, 28, of Alexandria, VA "may have important information" regarding the bombing. Spokespersons emphasized that Nickell was "not necessarily a suspect", and anyone with information needed to immediately contact police rather than take matters into their own hands. The spokesperson declined to state where Nickell's last known whereabouts were, or whether he was believed to belong to the organization Reality Or Nothing, which antonymous callers claimed responsibility for Tuesday's deadly blast.

Early this morning FBI and ATF agents executed a search warrant on Nickell's home where he lived alone. Authorities declined to state what was sought or found on the premises other than to confirm Nickell was not present. Nickell was employed as a truck driver for several years with the Department of Interior, and was last seen leaving his workplace in a work truck for deliveries. Interior staff reported Nickell and the truck missing Tuesday evening when he failed to return to work and apparently failed to make any of his appointed deliveries that day. A source close to the investigation refused to confirm that Nickell's truck was the one used in the GTO bombing, but did say "the images on the security tape show a truck that is consistent in model and appearance to the missing Interior Department vehicle Nickell drove".

Little is known of Nickell accordingly to co-workers and family who described him as somewhat solitary over the past few years. No ties to terrorist or political extremist groups are known, though at least one acquaintance and one co-worker each indicated that for over a year Nickell had expressed increasing frustration over the political situation in Atlasia stating "strong measures needed to be taken because the system was broke". The same source added, though: "But he never talked about doing anything violent. He never seemed the type you could picture blowing stuff up". A review of criminal databases in the region show only Nickells only had minor traffic infractions, a 2002 underage drinking conviction, and a 2005 disorderly conduct citation.

Cooper Funeral Expected to Draw Crowds as Other Victims Recover:

Meanwhile, the funeral for bombing victim Millicent "Millie" Cooper is scheduled for tomorrow morning only blocks from the GTO bomb site. Nyman police report they will have numerous officers assigned to assist large crowds expected to appear. The last reported missing individuals have been located and discovered not to have been injured at the site. The last remaining bomb victim in critical condition has been upgraded to serious, and family members report doctors say the unidentified Nyman man is expected to survive. Another two victims in serious condition have been upgraded to stable status, thus it appears Cooper is likely to be the only GTO bombing related fatality.

Unemployment Rises Again; Growth Remains Sluggish

(AMPG) Government figures show Unemployment increased in January to 9.1%, up a tenth of a percent from the previous month. Likewise, the annual rate of GDP Growth slowed from an already sluggish 0.3% to 0.2%.

Government economists claimed the recently passed federal economic stimulus program has not yet had time to filter down to the job market, with funds barely reaching the few "shovel-ready" projects in the few intervening weeks. "Once [the stimulus] starts kicking in, jobs will be free and readily available to all---er, that is if we follow up with sufficient subsequent stimulus measures". Other economists were critical of the stimulus's effect on the national economy. Said one University of Chicago scholar: "The job of the government isn't to ensure employment, its to fund national defense, border security, and a court system----um, and university research grants too, of course. Everything else is clearly unconstitutional!".

Due to traveling and the Super Bowl, the GM will be largely out of office until Monday.

GTO BOMBING "PERSON OF INTEREST" DETAINED

Federal authorities have confirmed that Colin Hart Nickell, a person sought during the last week for questioning in relation to the January 25th bombing of Global Treaty Organization headquarters in Nyman, has been detained by law enforcement. Spokespersons confirm Nickell was found attempting to cross the Canadian border in upper New York state. Comment was declined regarding whether Nickell was speaking with authorities, and likewise refused to confirm or deny rumors Nickell was wearing a disguise when located.

A government spokesperson insisted at this point Nickell was merely detained for questioning as "a person of interest" in the bombing. "It is important to note that currently we refuse to define Mr. Nickell as a suspect, and he is not at this point under arrest or charged with any crimes."

Nickell, 28 of Alexandria, VA, is a former truck driver for the Department of Interior who disappeared along with his work truck the morning of the GTO bombing. Eyewitnesses state Nickell was driving an ordinary pickup truck rather than a delivery truck of the type reported missing, and there is no word as to whether the missing Interior Department truck has also been located.

AMPG WEEKLY NEWS ROUNDUP:


NICKELL CHARGED IN GTO BOMBING:

(AMPG-NYMAN) Federal authorities have formally charged Colin Hart Nickell with being driver of a truck bomb which exploded January 25th in front of Global Treaty Organization headquarters in Nyman, killing 1 and seriously injuring over a dozen in addition to heavily damaging the structure itself. The Atlasian Justice Department has indicted Nickell on a variety of counts including murder, distruction of government property, terrorism, and criminal use of an explosive device. Nickell, 28 of Arlington, VA, has entered an not guilty plea through appointed legal counsel and is currently being incarcerated without bail pending trial for which no date has yet been set.

In arguing for Nickell to be remanded without bail, government attorneys claimed at arraignment that the defendant has admitted to being involved in the recently labeled terrorist organization Reality Or Nothing, and that forensic evidence establishes the truck used in the bombing was the same one Nickell left the Interior Department with as an employed driver only a few hours before the explosion. Attorneys stated Nickell is a flight risk as he was caught at the Canadian border attempting to leave the country with a clever disguise presented to the magistrate:

()

Justice Department spokespersons declined to comment as to whether they believe Nickell acted alone in the bombing, or how much--if any--direct material support Reality Or Nothing is believed to have contributed to carrying out the attack.

NEGOTIATIONS CONTINUE IN CHINA:

(AMPG-BEIJING) Negotiations continue on in the ongoing dispute over efforts of forces in the Chinese government to remove financing for Atlasia's national debt. SoEA Hashemite and GTO Ambassador Ben remain locked in what have been described as "tense" negotiations with PRC Politburo leaders. Details on the negotiations have been limited due to the tightly restricted release of information by both sides.

The crisis became public just before Christmas when it was learned the Chinese government was considering a measure to slash or even eliminate current financing of the Atlasian national debt, of which the PRC controls approximately a fourth. The news set off initial panic on Wall Street followed by sluggish decline as negotiations wear on. "It's litterally Chinese water torture" one trader opined. "The worst fears and drops stopped when the government entered negotiations, but since then people are reluctant to invest or make big trades not knowing the result of talks will be. It's not too great an effect yet, and we'd universally much more want a good result later than a bad result now, but if negotiations carry on another 6 weeks it could start to have a measurable effect not just on the ANSE, but even the overall economy."

AMPG sources have determined that there are apparently at least two competing factions in the PRC leadership--"moderates" led by Politburo Secretary Quan, and "neo-nationalists" led by Premier Han--in disagreement over whether to implement the financing cuts, with no decision apparently yet reached. Much of the internal debate reportedly deals as much with the byzantine labyrinth of domestic Chinese politics as it does foreign relations or economic policy. Whether Atlasia's government can affect matters in the waining weeks of President Fritz's Administration remains to be seen.

STOCKS DOWN, BUT NOT OUT; INFLATION REMAINS LOW:

(AMPG-NEW YORK) The ANSE's wild fluctuations in past months apparently have come to an end for the moment, but traders remain cautious pending the outcome of ongoing Sino-Atlasian talks regarding continued financing of the national debt. In the last several weeks the ANSE Index has dropped by approximately 4.8% to its current level of 671.41, with trading described as "sluggish, but stable" over the last week.

In other economic news, government statisticians announced the annual rate of inflation remained at 1.0% in January, prompting yawns and ennui from assembled reporters who drew the short straw in deciding which intern would have to cover this press conference.

You've got a help (new SoIA)

NOW GET TO WORK, YOU TWO PUNKS!

PM's already exchanged and plans being implemented as of about two hours ago. But thanks for the "encouragement". ;)

I will be leaving for a Florida vacation tomorrow for a week. I'll still be checking in periodically on the wife's laptop, but I obviously might not be on as much.

Have fun, play nice, and try not to break the game.

If you find some emails from me on your wife's laptop pay them no mind. ;)

If I didn't know you were gay, I'd almost be jealous. ;)

NEGOTIATIONS IN CHINA REPORTEDLY NEARING END:

PRC POLITBURO REPORTEDLY NEARING DECISION ON DEBT FINANCING

(AMPG--Beijing): Reports this week indicate the PRC leadership is nearing a decision on the ongoing internal battle over whether to slash Chinese funding of the Atlasian national debt. Insiders familiar with the labyrinth world of Politburo politics state the leadership seems poised to allow the new Tmthforu Administration the opportunity to "make its best offer" to avert further financial crisis. Newly sworn SoEA Ben is reportedly travelling to China in the coming week to resume, and potentially conclude, negotiations he was orignially involved in as GTO Ambassador of the Fritz Administration.

Reports to follow as the story develops....

Updated to include the recent-ish stimulus

Spending ($2673.05 billion)

Military Spending ($446.11 billion)
$106.57 billion ... Military personnel
$153.62 billion ... Operation and maintenance
$80.84 billion .... Procurement
$68.13 billion .... Research, development, test and evaluation
$16.15 billion .... Military Construction, Family Housing and Other
$17.99 billion .... Atomic Energy Defense Activities
$2.81 billion ..... Defense Related activities

Iraq and Afghanistan Operations ($111.85 billion)
$105 billion ..... Military Operations
$6.85 billion .... Reconstruction aid

Military Retirement ($115.48 billion)
$40.83 billion .... Military retirement
$36.34 billion .... Income security for veterans
$3.24 billion ...... Veterans education, training, and rehabilitation
$34.35 billion ..... Hospital and medical care for veterans and retired military
$0.72 billion ...... Housing and other veterans benefits and services

International affairs ($31.59 billion)
$13 billion ........ International development and humanitarian assistance
$9.47 billion ...... International military aid
$7.97 billion ...... Conduct of foreign affairs
$1.15 billion ...... Foreign information and exchange activities

General science, space, and technology ($23.97 billion)
$5.62 billion ...... National Science Foundation programs
$3.44 billion ...... Department of Energy general science programs
$14.91 billion ..... Space flight, research, and supporting activities

Non-Defense Energy Spending ($2.12 billion)
$0.73 billion ...... Energy supply
$1.03 billion ...... Energy conservation and preparedness
$0.36 billion ...... Energy information, preparedness, & regulation

Natural resources and environment ($31.16 billion)
$5.45 billion ..... Water resources
$9.07 billion ..... Conservation and land management
$3.12 billion ..... Recreational & Park resources
$8.42 billion ..... Pollution control and abatement
$5.1 billion ....... Other natural resources

Agriculture ($26.02 billion)
$21.73 billion ..... Farm income stabilization & crop insurance
$4.29 billion ...... Agricultural research and services

Commerce and Housing Loan Programs ($6.82 billion)
$-4.28 billion ..... Federal Housing Loan Programs
$2.17 billion ...... Postal service
$-0.96 billion ..... Deposit insurance
$7.96 billion ...... Universal service fund
$1.93 billion ...... Other advancement of commerce

Transportation ($70.68 billion)
$36.51 billion ..... Highways and highway safety
$8.51 billion ...... Mass transit
$2.81 billion ...... Railroads
$17.26 billion ..... Air Transportion
$7.37 billion ...... Water transportation
$0.42 billion ...... Other transportation

Community and regional development ($19.1 billion)
$6.25 billion ...... Community development
$80.36 billion ...... Area and regional development
$10.15 billion ...... Disaster relief and insurance

Education ($64.07 billion)
$38.57 billion ..... Elementary, Secondary & Vocational education
$22.27 billion ..... Higher education
$3.23 billion ...... Research and general education

Training, labor and unemployment ($47.81 billion)
$6.88 billion ...... Training and employment
$1.6 billion ....... Labor law, statistics, and other administration
$139.33 billion ..... Unemployment compensation

Non-Medicare Health Spending ($253.32 billion)
$192.72 billion .... Medicaid grants
$6.23 billion ...... State Children's Health Insurance
$3.17 billion ...... Indian health
$3.24 billion ...... Substance abuse and mental health services
$4.7 billion ....... Disease control, public health and bioterrorism
$29.36 billion ..... Health research and training
$3.01 billion ...... Food safety and occupational health and safety
$10.89 billion ..... Other health care services

Medicare ($345.76 billion)
$182.76 billion .... Hospital insurance (HI)
$115.14 billion .... Supplementary medical insurance (SMI)
$46.7 billion ...... Prescription drug benefit
$1.16 billion ...... Health care fraud

Civilian Retirement (Social Security excluded) ($72.02 billion)
$4.89 billion ...... Civilian retirement and disability insurance
$58.22 billion ..... Federal employee retirement and disability
$8.91 billion ...... Federal employees' and retired employees' health benefits

Aid to Low-Income Families ($206.78 billion)
$38.45 billion ..... Housing assistance
$87.58 billion ..... Food stamps
$19.3 billion ...... Other nutrition programs (WIC, school lunches)
$38.66 billion ..... Supplemental security income (SSI)
$18.21 billion ..... Family support payments (TANF)
$34.05 billion ..... Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
$13.15 billion ..... Child tax credit
$4.8 billion ....... Child care funds
$2.58 billion ...... Other aid to low-income families

General Family Support ($25.62 billion)
$6.56 billion ...... Foster care and adoption assistance
$2.92 billion ...... Child support and family support programs
$16.14 billion ..... Social and family services

Social security ($544.82 billion)
$454.4 billion ..... Old-age and survivors insurance(OASI)
$90.42 billion ..... Disability insurance (DI)

Administration of justice ($43.1 billion)
$11.35 billion ..... Federal law enforcement
$10.46 billion ..... Border security and immigration
$10.91 billion ..... Federal litigation and judicial activities
$6.16 billion ...... Federal prison system
$4.22 billion ...... Criminal justice assistance

General government administration ($17.76 billion)
$3.67 billion ...... Legislative functions
$1.14 billion ...... Executive office programs
$9.8 billion ....... IRS & other fiscal operations
$3.15 billion ...... Other general government

Net_interest_long ($211.08 billion)
$211.08 billion .... Net Interest

Undistributed offsetting receipts and allowance ($-43.99 billion)
$-43.99 billion .... Undistributed offsetting receipts and allowance

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tax Expenditures and Tax Cuts ($1075.13 billion)


2001 and 2003 Tax Cuts ($294.9 billion)
$116.96 billion .... Benefits for Richest 1% of Taxpayers
$28.87 billion ..... Benefits for Next Richest 4%
$58.92 billion ..... Benefits for Next Richest 15%
$43.6 billion ...... Benefits for Next 20% of Taxpayers
$46.55 billion ..... Benefits for Bottom 60% of Taxpayers

Corporate Tax Breaks ($60.36 billion)
$15.74 billion ..... Untaxed Foreign Profits
$9.87 billion ...... R&D Tax Breaks
$4.05 billion ...... Energy, Mining and Timber Tax Breaks
$9.93 billion ...... Tax Free Bonds
$20.77 billion ..... Other Corporate Tax Breaks

Personal Business & Investment Benefits ($86.71 billion)
$30.38 billion ..... Lower tax rates on capital gains (excluding housing)
$28.76 billion ..... Step-up basis of capital gains at death
$23.01 billion ..... Tax-Free Bonds
$1.36 billion ...... Enterprise & Empowerment Zones and New Markets credit
$3.2 billion ....... Other personal investment tax breaks

Pension & Retirement Deductions ($168.47 billion)
$51.05 billion ..... Employer-paid Pensions
$58.12 billion ..... 401Ks & Keogh plans
$7.31 billion ...... IRAs
$29.48 billion ..... Group and personal life insurance benefits
$19.77 billion ..... Untaxed Social Security benefits
$2.74 billion ...... Other retirement benefits

Health Insurance Tax Benefits ($140.99 billion)
$125.69 billion .... Employer-paid Health Insurance
$4.33 billion ...... Self-employed medical insurance premiums
$1.83 billion ...... Medical Savings/Health Savings Accounts
$9.14 billion ...... Deductibility of medical expenses

Housing tax benefits ($163.71 billion)
$76.03 billion ..... Mortgage Interest
$14.83 billion ..... Deductibility of property taxes on homes
$36.27 billion ..... Capital gains exclusion on home sales
$29.72 billion ..... Exclusion of net imputed rental income on owner-occupied homes
$2.11 billion ...... Housing bonds & low-income housing investments
$4.75 billion ...... Exception from passive loss rules for $25,000 of rental loss

Other individual deductions and exemptions ($159.99 billion)
$37.89 billion ..... Charitable contributions
$34.62 billion ..... State and local taxes (w/o home property)
$6.55 billion ...... Soldiers and veterans tax benefits
$5.94 billion ...... Workmen's compensation
$14.01 billion ..... Education deductions and credits
$32.81 billion ..... Child credit
$2.81 billion ...... Child care credits and deductions
$2 billion ......... Deduction for the blind and elderly
$7.86 billion ...... Social Security benefits for disabled and survivors
$3.76 billion ...... Untaxed foreign personal income
$3.28 billion ...... Employee parking and transit expenses
$1.25 billion ...... Adoption and foster care tax credits
$5.42 billion ...... Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)- revenue loss component
$1.79 billion ...... Other fringe benefits

-----------------

New budget is $3978.04 billion
($2902.91 billion in spending, $1075.13 billion in tax expenditures and cuts).

Deficit is $630.64 billion.

National Debt: $9.81 Trillion <=== (unchanged for now, I need to look at other things before touching that)

I'll post what exactly was changed in my office thread for those who don't care to read through all that.

We need to cut Medicare Spending, Iraq/Afghan Operations and Military Spending.

     Given that we don't have Iraq/Afghan operations, it's rather disturbing that we spend anything at all on them.

I completely agree. JBrase and I found that a while back and were quite baffled. Military spending as a whole need to be reduced in this term.

You have my support, Mr. President!

Thank you. Now I can sleep with peace tonight.

:P

I will not support any cuts to military spending.

Then what do you propose we cut in order to reduce our deficit?

Even when cutting off funding to Iraq/Afghanistan operations is equivalent to stopping construction on the Bridge to Nowhere?

Interesting note. I've raised this question at multiple points, including specifically in the Budget Process Committee discussions. To this point no one has pointed out to me, despite repeated requests, anything in Atlasian history showing our government made a firm and decisive break with RL policy/military activity in Iraq or Afghanistan. I'm not swearing that hasn't happened, but merely no one has pointed it out to me despite repeated requests.

Until then--and if this post doesn't produce it nothing will--I'm assuming Atlasian activity and spending in both theaters matches RL.

     Nothing explicit, but the Foreign Policy Review Act of 2010 (https://uselectionatlas.org/AFEWIKI/index.php/Foreign_Policy_Review_Act_of_2010) seems to suggest fairly normal relations with both Afghanistan & Iraq.

True, but that has to do with relations with the government. I imagine RL relations with the Afghanistani and Iraqi leadership would be considered similarly. Also, simply not specific at all re: termination of military ventures there. Thanks for providing this PiT, but if this is all there is then the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq (and their attendant spending) continue as per RL until the government decrees otherwise.

I can't believe this hasn't been touched on previously. What were you guys all debating about in 2006 and when the surge occurred? For that matter I can't believe I didn't inquire about this while a Senator. :P

     Perhaps more relevantly, we also have a free trade agreement with Iraq, per the Omnibus Trade Reorganization & Wiki Consolidation Act (https://uselectionatlas.org/AFEWIKI/index.php/Omnibus_Trade_Reorganization_%26_Wiki_Consolidation_Act).

What are trade relations with Iraq in RL? Again, any tariffs that may be in place have nothing to do with lack of diplomatic and/or military support of the Iraqi government. I appreciate the info, PiT, but I don't see a free trade agreement as indicative that Atlasia withdrew its military forces from Iraq and/or Afghanistan.

Again, it seems strange but apparently true that repeated successive administrations and senates have merely assumed Atlasia stopped any significant military involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan, when in fact nothing of the sort was officially done.

Might be an interesting and long overdue subject for senate debate, no? ;)

News Flash: Economy Still Stinks.

(AMPG--Nyman): Government economists announced today that the national unemployment rate continues to rise, hitting 9.2% in March, up from 9.1% last month. The annual rate of economic growth rose to 0.4%, double February's figures, but still low enough that the economy is still under immediate threat of recession economists warn.

Stocks have remained "stablish" on market analyst opined. But, the expert further warned: "It's kind of like stabilizing in a coma after suffering a major stroke. The immediate danger is gone, but there's still no signs of life."

More news to follow after the GM's birthday bash this weekend. ;D

Happy b-day!!!

Happy Birthdaythoughnotsureexactlywhatitisonbutstillhappyb-daynonetheless

Dunka Shein (or however its spelt). Its tomorrow, but the drinking party starts shortly. :)

Danke schön**

:)

We also set up Medicare and Medicaid to essentially be abolished nearly two years ago.

(I'm also genuinely curious as to what Jbrase thinks the current tax rates are.)

No, don't blame JBrase. I've been meaning to adjust deficit levels to account for the Fiscal Responsibility Act, but haven't got around to it yet. That's my slowness, not his.

I've also wondered about the Medicaid/Medicare thing in light of Atlasia's version of health care reform being passed. Though despite these same spending categories being proposed at the time, this was never brought up by ANYONE on the budget process committee last year, was it Marokai? ;)

I suppose it wasn't.. :P

so, do we need to do anything else for Medicare and Medicaid to be phased out, or is there any problem if we just stop funding it? 

I think in terms of Medicare and Medicaid the funding is being changed to a new national health care system. The labeling of spending subcategories should change; in terms of the money spent, well, probably so---but I'm not yet sure how. :P

Input on this Marokai? As well as any critics of this "socialized medicine"?

The spending of Medicare and Medicaid would probably be along the same lines I suppose, since most of what we did was simply transfer patients, personnel, and the funding to the national healthcare program.

This thread seems to have been unsticked. Could that be rectified please?

BREAKING NEWS: ATLASIA AND CHINA COME TO AGREEMENT:

Stocks Rise On Reports of "Nominal" Financing Cuts

(AMPG--Beijing): PRC and Atlasian representatives today announced an end to the debt financing crisis that paralyzed world markets for months. In a joint communique the parties announced China will live up to its obligations to reduce its financing of Atlasians annual budget deficit by reducing its purchase of Atlasian government securities by 2.1%. As part of the announcement it was revealed Atlasia will reduce its tarriffs on rubber, tire, and processed iron from 35% to 25%.

Wall street has reacted with favorable excitement with the announcement; industries affected by the reduced tariffs and unions have reacted angrily. More analysis to follow.

ANNOUNCEMENT:

Folks, as its become painfully obvious over the last month that real life has overtaken my ability to do this job--let alone at the level of activity I expect of myself--I will need to hand over the reins of GM. Ergo, I will resign effective either June 1, or when President Tmthforu's nominee is confirmed, whichever comes first.

Sorry for the absent month, and Dave Bless Atlasia.

Oh, and while I'm not leaving Atlasia, I won't be that active in the immediate future either. Just please PM me when elections and JCP conventions are going on, k? ;)

You will be missed, my friend.  You have been an excellent GM.

Seconded.

Thank you both. I'm actually pretty proud of the work I did, up until the last few weeks when I became woefully absent. :-[

:'(

you've done an awesome job Badger. it seems like you've been GM forever, so I guess you deserve a break. I guess we'll manage, somehow . . .

I was made aware of your intention to leave this post.

You've done an absolutely outstanding job in it.

If elected President in June, I assure you that I will make sure that your successor is someone who can carry-on your committed work.

This has already been taken care of if you'll take a look at the Atlas Fantasy Government board.

()

     I would hope that the office of GM would not be left vacant for over a month.

I put a smilie in almost every single post I make here. I don't do it one time and now you're attacking me for it!

*restrains self from using the angry smilie*

...I was just giving you a cookie bouquet.. it had nothing to do with that...

Whatever...:P

You grant me with paying more attention to your posts than I do ;)

Hi Folks:

I want to thank the President for allowing me the opportunity to try wrapping up a few storylines while Yelnoc's nomination was pending. Unfortunately, real life simply won't permit it. :(

Hence, I resign as GM effective immediately, so Yelnoc can at least start getting his feet wet as acting GM in the meantime.

Thank you all for the kind wishes and words. Its been an honor to serve in this office, and I wish Yelnoc the best of luck.

I urge the feds and regions alike to adopt--and with this Office's help, update and adhere to--at least a basic budgetary structure of some sort. It makes the decisions made by governments have true long term consequences and can produce debate without necessarily requiring overly complex numbers juggling. Try it. ;)

Thanks again to the presidents who allowed me the opportunity to serve here. I won't go inactive, but I probably will need some PM reminders to vote or attend conventions (PLEASE!! ;)).

Take care, and Dave Bless Atlasia!

You will be missed :(

I'm proud to have appointed you to the position of GM, and I believe you have done a great service to Atlasia. I wish you the best in your future endeavors. :)

P.S. Since the new GM has his own thread now, I believe its time for the mods to unsticky this one. Thanks!