The Atlasian Democrat: Your Official Atlasian News Service

[Dr. Cynic]

The Atlasian Democrat

Atlasians Students Protest Senate Bill

Atlasian college students from all economic backgrounds are holding forth a so far peaceful protest over a bill which would make college tuition more affordable. Students complain that public universities should not be subject to tuition since much of the funding already comes from tax dollars. We spoke with one of the leaders of the protest, Sarah Meyer, a college sophomore.  "The difference of public and private colleges seems cut and dry to me," she said. "We're asking the Senate and President Lumine to do the right thing for the students who have either chosen or are forced economically to go to publicly funded universities."

Meyer and other protest leaders did not comment on regional laws, such as that in the Northeast which outlaws tuition for NE students who attend NE universities. The Atlasian Universal Education Bill now being debated does things such as place maximum fees on courses and allows low interest loans to be taken. More on this to follow...

Broad International Support for President's IS Plan

Although thought at first that it might be moderately controversial, President Lumine's efforts through executive order to combat ISIS were met with positive reactions both from the public at large and from the international community. After devastating attacks on Atlasian soil which eventually escalated into the Atlasian Civil Conflict, there has been a great deal of public paranoia over terrorism in recent weeks. The State Department has been charged with providing humanitarian aid, whilst the Defense Department has been instructed to lead the coalition in drone and airstrikes. As of yet, the President has not authorized any boots on the ground.


If you wish to apply for a position with the Atlasian Democrat, please send a PM to the GM, Dr. Cynic.

[Dr. Cynic]

MIDWEST GOVERNOR SURVIVES RECALL

It seems after a tense recall campaign that Midwest Governor LeBron Fitzgerald has survived barely thanks to the 3\5th removal rule. The recall was not due to any law being broken or inactivity, but rather because the Governor simply happened to be unpopular. Most Midwest citizens have expressed disappointment, both in the Governor and the leaders of the recall campaign.

"I cant really understand what purpose it serves," said Midwest citizen Owen Melling. "I'm a nominal Labor voter, so I voted against the recall. I can understand that the Governor is unpopular, but I just don't see what it does to help us. It was surely just a political move."

Still, we found plenty of individuals who supported the recall effort such as political activist, Scott Whitman. "We are sick and tired of the Labor cabal that conspires to rob the Midwest of political competition. This recall effort shows that Atlasian citizens are not happy and Midwesterners aren't happy and we want some change!"

So far, the election has been a peaceful affair and this paper does not believe there will be any kind of unrest caused by the voting. Tensions are high though, so we advise citizens of the Midwest to be a bit more vigilant when it comes to their own security for the time being.

[Dr. Cynic]

The Atlasian Democrat

Your Source for Atlasia's News!

Should Midwest Governor Resign?

Even though the vote of confidence is split among the voters, several Atlasian citizens have publicly called for Midwest Governor LeBron Fitzgerald to resign from the region's executive. Polling results performed by The Atlasian Democrat have shown that Labor supporters line up solidly for the Governor and feel he should be given another chance. The other parties and most crucially, independents, seem to believe that even if the recall was wrong, that there is such a lack of confidence in the Governor, that he should resign and save face.

Senator Deus' Legislation Protested

Along with protests from most members of the Senate, recent legislation introduced by Senator Deus is causing heavy protest from public groups. Consumer protection agencies are hopeful that President Lumine will follow through on his promise to veto the legislation even if it's passed, which is unlikely given the makeup of the Senate. Chamber of Commerce leaders however have praised Senator Deus for bringing forward a bill which would, in the words of business analyst Mark Stewart, "Increase the rights of both large and small businesses in Atlasia, which have been stifled for far too long by the democratic socialist left represented by Labor and their secret enablers in TPP. For too long, economic growth has been stifled."

Weekly Economic Forecast

The Following is an economic forecast for the Regions and Atlasia at large:

Northeast: Unemployment: 7.8%
IDS: Unemployment: 7.4%
Mideast: Unemployment: 8.3%
Midwest: Unemployment: 9.6%
Pacific: Unemployment: 10.8%

National: Unemployment: 9.1%

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OVERALL ANALYSIS

Nationally, there was a general uptick in unemployment from the previous statistics. In the Northeast, the situation in Buffalo resulted in minor investor panic that trickled down to affect employment in the NE which had generally been stable. The Midwest saw upticks in unemployment due to the instability of the regional government and the Pacific again is a region in desperate need of leadership as unemployment is shooting back up thanks to the lack of effort and activity from regional executives.

Nationally, the unemployment rate saw a slight rise thanks in part to these factors. It remains to be seen if they will stabilize.

[Dr. Cynic]

Well, thank you, I appreciate it. News is a bit slow to start as there are some things I'm waiting on before I can do them.

Any requests though should go in the official GM office, which I hope someone will sticky!!!!

[Dr. Cynic]

The Atlasian Democrat

Your Source for Atlasia's News!

Franco-Atlasian Relations Hit Rough Spot

In what has been called by a top French diplomat as a communication breakdown over the situation with ISIS, Atlasia's relationship with France is now in a seriously frayed state. So far, neither Atlasian nor French officials are willing to tell The Atlasian Democrat in detail as to what this situation is, but most sources seem to confirm that strategic differences over how to deal with the threat from ISIS seem to be at the root of the difficulty.

According to several sources, the French Foreign Ministry is outraged over the Lumine Administration's war preparations. Sources say that France is unwilling to put troops on the ground and they believe that the Lumine Administration is pushing the coalition hard to allow this. As of right now, the Administration has not commented officially, but our source tells us that the President doesn't yet feel boots on the ground are necessary. We actively await a response from President Lumine or the Administration to French concerns.

Attorney General Brings Charges Against Former Senator

Although President Lumine seemed somewhat open to relations with the rather eccentric, but generally harmless residents of a small community called The Papal Patch. However, his Attorney General, generally perceived as one of the two most conservative members of the administration, has brought charges against former Senator Alfred F. Jones, a resident and leader of the Papal Patch community. It is generally felt that this is continued fallout from the now ended Civil Conflict and as such the move is unpopular with the general public who want very much to see hostilities at an end.

"I can't stand this anymore," said Northeast resident Emma White. "We all want to get on with our lives. Those Papal Patch people are generally peaceful and don't mean harm."

A spokesman for the Attorney General's office stated that "We take potentially treasonous actions very seriously, even when done by former officials such as the former Senator."

As of right now, the Supreme Court has yet to grant the Attorney General's petition of certiorari. More on this story as it becomes available.

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[Dr. Cynic]

The Atlasian Democrat

Your Source for Atlasia's News!

BREAKING NEWS:

BRITISH PLANE CARRYING HUMANITARIAN AID SHOT DOWN!

A British plane carrying humanitarian aide was shot down over Northwest Iraq this evening, The Atlasian Democrat has learned. The plane had been accompanied by military escort planes, but was shot down from fire on the ground. So far, precious little information has been made available to us, but Foreign Secretary, Phillip Hammond spoke to the BBC less than a half hour ago on this tragedy and it was determined that ISIS were most likely responsible. Here in Atlasia, we await comments from Secretary of State Potus and President Lumine with regards to what, if any, Atlasian aid will be forthcoming. Already there is high anxiety in the nation thanks in part to the administration's decision to put boots on the ground to combat ISIS in Iraq. President Lumine has said he will be mindful of protecting Atlasian humanitarian planes, but with a British plane being shot down, will the administration extend escorts to other nations? More on this as we learn it...

Civil Rights Bill met with Furious Opposition and Support

The 64th Senate has certainly been a controversial session. Probably the bill generating the most though is Senator TNF's new Civil Rights bill. As of right now, the bill has undergone several amendments and modifications, but much of it has been met with both strong support and furious opposition. Senator TNF, a self-described communist, has authored many bills in an attempt to lead the left of Atlasia. However, even many leading left wing politicians, mostly social democrats, have expressed opposition to much of the legislation, one individual even condemning it as "fascist". However, many others on the left have been supportive. "It's about time someone stands up for everyone's right to be treated with dignity and Senator TNF has done just that," said one man.

President Lumine has vowed to veto the legislation, even a scaled down version so far.

[Dr. Cynic]

BREAKING NEWS:

Sec. of State Pushes for Heavy Military Presence in Iraq & Syria

The Atlasian Democrat can confirm that the State Department has sent a recommendation to President Lumine that ground troop presence in Iraq, already a point of contention for many in Atlasia, be ballooned up heavily to over 50,000 troops. Secretary Potus issued a statement saying that "Evil is alive in the world and we should not be afraid to confront it". Also recommended was a significant increase in the bombing of targets in Syria. The Secretary is also meeting with the President to discuss further strategic and tactical matters this evening. More information will be printed as it becomes available....

[Dr. Cynic]

The Atlasian Democrat

Your Source for Atlasia's News!

President Addresses Nation After Speaking With Coalition Partners

President Lumine has addressed the nation regarding plans for how to deal with ISIS going forward. The President has only recently met with several world leaders in hopes of creating a broad coalition to combat the threat. This paper can confirm that President Lumine came away with at least tacit endorsement of the air strike campaign from a majority of those who he spoke with. The Chinese government, for example, heretofore moderately opposed to the airstrike campaign, has come away tacitly endorsing the action, though still unwilling to aid or participate. The one nation remaining stridently opposed to Atlasian military operations is Russia. Sources confirm to us that the conversation with President Putin was somewhat tense, though cordial on the surface. Russia continues to oppose any further escalation of action, especially within ally Syria.

In the backdrop of all of this, President Lumine has addressed the nation. While a pugnacious address, it also invited the Atlasian public to offer active participation in this matter. Polls show that Lumine's handling of this situation is almost a 60-40 favorable/unfavorable margin. More on this situation as we learn it.

[Dr. Cynic]

The Atlasian Democrat

Your Source for Atlasia's News!

Russia Issues Ultimatum to Atlasia

With foreign tensions high, the latest issue facing the administration comes from the tense relationship with Russia. President Vladimir Putin issued a statement today again warning Atlasia off of escalating airstrikes in Syria and putting any boots on the ground. Most international observers believe that Putin's language is deliberately incendiary, designed to provoke a harsh reaction from Atlasia, particularly from the hawkish Secretary of State Potus. Whether or not any Atlasian public official responds to Putin's statement will remain to be seen. In other foreign news, Canada's Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird has scheduled a trip to the U.S. to meet with both Vice President SJoyce and Secretary Potus. It isn't known if Putin's latest comments will be discussed.

Electoral Commission To Reboot Atlasia?

The three member Electoral Reform group has been meeting for a few weeks now. The members: Bacon King, Bore, and the Chairman of the group, RPryor, are considering several reforms to regional boundaries and the way we elect our Senators. When President Lumine formed the Commission, there were no specific instructions given to the group, merely that they investigate areas to fix the political system. One popular method discussed by the general public was a full reboot. Publicly, this has always been met with mixed support (including from me during my recent days as an active politician), however, the Atlasian public seems to want the matter discussed. Several Atlasians have brought forward the proposal for the members to consider. The Atlasian Democrat sees support for a full reboot as gaining steam once again. Time will tell if such a proposal is even considered, but it once again has been brought to the forefront.

Weekly Economic Forecast

The Following is an economic forecast for the Regions and Atlasia at large:

Northeast: Unemployment: 7.7%
IDS: Unemployment: 7.9%
Mideast: Unemployment: 8.6%
Midwest: Unemployment: 9.7%
Pacific: Unemployment: 10.8%
National: Unemployment: 9.5% Inflation: 8.3%

Overall Analysis

Compared to last week, unemployment was up slightly thanks to the lack of investor confidence coming from the trouble in foreign policy recently. Inflation wasn't measured last week, but according to our reports, it has been relatively stable. Employment should definitely look to be a major concern for lawmakers within the next few weeks as a holiday season with such a high unemployment rate could continue to hurt the confidence of both job creators and job seekers. While some firms are hiring to compensate for the holiday season, these creations have barely managed to keep up with the negative numbers. The feeling among the general public is that this situation demands immediate attention from regional as well as the national governments.

NOTICE

There will be no further issues of The Atlasian Democrat published until Friday as the editor will be abroad to plan his wedding which will occur this spring. We apologize for the inconvenience to readers.

[Dr. Cynic]

INFLATION!

Holy s**t our inflation rate is through the roof!

I don't think we've had rates this high since the 70s, no?

And it appears that unemployment has gone back to what it was back when I was GM, huh...

It should give you guys something to work on then while I'm gone. It was actually supposed to be a lower inflation number but I hit submit and just decided "f**k it, give you guys something to do". See you all on Friday!

[Dr. Cynic]

The Atlasian Democrat

Your Source for Atlasia's News!

Russia Backs Off of Threats

Presently, sources tell us that the Russian President is rapidly backing off of the strong language that had heretofore dominated the discussions between them and the Atlasian government. There was a major concern among many of those working in the intelligence sector that this disagreement would come to blows. Russia has backed off of the full on condemnation rhetoric and has spoken of a desire to try and work with the administration regarding terrorism. It's thought that the Syrian government's request for aid has caused the Russian position to change course.

Elections Underway While
Administration Faces Impeachment Effort

While Atlasians go to the polls, the administration is facing an impeachment effort led by several of the more radical members of the Labor Party. While polling indicates that the support for such a measure is low, those that support the action are citing inactivity as the primary motivating factor.

Meanwhile, the Senate election is underway. As of right now, it looks as though it's a close race for survival for incumbents JCL and Bacon King. Bacon King had been accused of being inactive after winning the special election and it has strongly harmed his momentum. He and JCL, whose views and personality remain an issue for many voters, are in a tight race for survival that it appears only one will make it out of. When we last checked, Bacon King was the one who would win out, but that could change at any time. It will be a close one that will see at least one new member elected.

[Dr. Cynic]

The Atlasian Democrat

Your Source for Atlasia's News!

Left Reasserts Control of Senate

After a tight at-large contest, it appears that Labor and TPP have reasserted control of the Senate while the Federalists and the DR's have clearly moved backward. Of the right wing candidates running, only Cris was victorious. Senators Deus and JCL, both controversial and outspoken libertarians, have seemingly been ousted. One thing of note is that it seems to prove that early campaign declarations can work out. In August, Dr. Cynic had been an early candidate and was victorious. Now, SWE, a longtime fixture of the Northeast Assembly, joins the Senate after having appeared to be behind for much of the contest. SWE was also an early declaration. Could campaigns be beginning earlier and earlier? Some Atlasian citizens are unhappy with such a prospect.

"I'd rather they actually get some work done for us rather than campaigning all the time," declared energy sector employee Charles Ford. "We need an active government, especially in regards to environmental concerns. Senator Polnut was especially good in that and I gave him first preference."

The most newsworthy item though to come out of the election is most likely that the stock market was down today after the left wing triumph. Investors in particular are cautious of any new regulations being placed on them by the new Senate. One stockbroker, who spoke to us under a condition of anonymity revealed that though Wall Street had anticipated a left victory, that they hadn't anticipated both JCL and Deus to lose. "If Labor and The People's Party take a sensible route when it comes to regulation, the market will recover quickly. However, the more we see TNF style communism, the more uneasy we investors feel."

Coalition Forces See Positive Signs in Iraq Front

While election results and recent efforts of impeachment probably bring no cheer to the administration, a spot of good news for President Lumine when coalition bombing strikes have hit ISIS targets all along the Iraqi-Syrian border today. While we have yet to receive a comment from the White House, Nyman officials are said to feel that these strikes have been a serious injury to Islamic State militants. We expect comment very soon from the Administration.

Mumps Outbreak Worries Health Officials in Pittsburgh and Elsewhere

Recently, there has been a mumps outbreak in Atlasia that has affected 5 NHL hockey teams, including the league's poster boy, Sidney Crosby. While this in and of itself might not have been a major issue, word has come to us that one possibly infected teammate, Beau Bennett, had visited Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh. Patients and staff are being tested as we write this. As of right now, several public health advocates are calling on the Interior Department to find new ways to contain the infectious disease. More on this when we learn it.

[Dr. Cynic]

Deus was not a candidate

You're right, my bad.

[Dr. Cynic]

The Atlasian Democrat

Your Source for Atlasia's News!

Australia Deals With Fallout From Hostage Situation

While Australia deals with the fallout over the long hostage situation that took place just a short while ago in a Sydney cafe, the Coalition government has steadfastly resolved not to be drawn into a debate over gun control. Labor Opposition Leader Bill Shorten has called on Prime Minister Tony Abbott to bring the debate to the forefront and if necessary tighten restrictions even further.

"The fact is, Australia has one of the most stringent gun control policies on the globe," said policy analyst Jim Lewis. "The hostage situation that caused the death of two people and the gunman is not necessarily the fault of the policy."

Most pro-gun advocates in Australia are calling for the laws to be revised in case another situation like this erupts. Atlasian officials have offered condolences to the people of Sydney and Australia as a whole over the tragedy.

Public Losing Patience With Administration

While the public has generally opposed the efforts to impeach the President and Vice President, it seems that the honeymoon is over for the Lumine Administration. While elected by safe margins, the centrist coalition of the Federalists and moderate TPP members has been strained seemingly in recent weeks. It seems the slight dysfunction has been trickling out to the public as the left wing reasserted control of the Senate with the President's Federalist Party heavily battered. Some members of the TPP who spoke with us under the condition of anonymity noted how disappointed they were in the administration so far.

"Apart from a few minor things, there's been very little effort. I'm hoping after the holidays we can get something going. The budget being done would be a good start. I'm cautiously optimistic for the future, but the present has been somewhat disappointing."

Senate Battle Over Military Budget

It's no secret that Senator TNF is perhaps Atlasia's most left-wing political leader. His recent statements in the budget debate may have constituents either shaking their heads or standing up and cheering, depending on your political alignment. Senator TNF stated bluntly that he would not rest until the standing army was no more, to cheers from the left wing galleries and exasperation from moderates and conservatives. Senator Polnut, probably the most pragmatic member of the Atlasian Senate was interpreted by Senator Bore to have offered an objection. A vote on Senator TNF's amendment appears set to fail.

A Quick Note For The Pacific

Readers of The Atlasian Democrat are familiar with the woes of activity that have plagued the Pacific local government for quite some time now. However, recently a strong Pacific Council headed up by former Senator Averroes Nix, has been working on three separate bills, including a heavily debated gambling bill. Residents in the Pacific Region should be relieved to see that once again bills are being considered and debated after such a long period of inactivity.

[Dr. Cynic]

The Atlasian Democrat

Your Source for Atlasia's News!

2015 Budget Battle

The Senate is currently grappling with the 2015 budget that is supposed to be due by the new year. While early on, the debate was seemingly not getting anywhere, so far, it seems that there is hope for it after all. Senator Bore intends to propose his amendments soon from what those close to him tell us, and it's possible that they will be acceptable to the majority of the Senate, who are looking to make taxation more progressive in the next year.

This budget battle is thought to be a continuation of a showdown between the President and the Senate after Lumine veto'd the Collective Bargaining Modernization Act. The Senate is currently voting on a veto override which is expected to pass easily.

Russian Negotiations Tense

Negotiations between Russia and Atlasia over Crimea were resumed today after a Christmas break. Sources confirm that Secretary Potus has been conducting the talks with the Russian officials and while the talks started well enough, sources tell us that they took a sour turn just before the parties broke for the holidays. With negotiations resumed today, our sources are saying that Russia is standing firm on maintaining Crimea, however they may have made other concessions that our sources could not confirm or deny.

Foreign Policy Analyst Jim Lewis had this to say; "Even though the negotiations have been very tense,  there's no reason to believe that there may not be a solution forthcoming. Neither side wants a war with the other no matter how bellicose they may appear in public as it could be a disaster for both nations."

Inflation and Unemployment Fall

While we haven't got the solid numbers yet (they are to be released on Tuesday), the economic forecast after the Christmas holiday is very encouraging. With gas prices falling and a stock market surge, both unemployment and inflation are thought to be at year long lows. The Atlasian national unemployment rate might be below 6% for the first time in quite some time. While we don't have the solid number yet, the news on the economic front is nothing if not encouraging.

President Lumine Won't Seek 2nd Term

While opinions on the President and the administration vary from unwavering support to bitter contempt, the vast majority of the Atlasian populace has seemed to at least generally approve of the Lumine Administration. However, the President announced that he intends to serve only a single term. While Lumine won't fully retire from Atlasian politics, those close to him have told us that he's probably burned out and will want to recharge his batteries after his term closes out.

[Dr. Cynic]

The Atlasian Democrat

Your Source for Atlasia's News!

Presidential Election Kicks Off

With the news that President Lumine is retiring after a single term, the Presidential race seems to have kicked itself off. Senators Bore and Bacon King have formed a ticket. Cinci has also announced for President, with former President and Atlasian veteran Duke as his running mate for the People's Party. As the campaign heats up, we'll be conducting several opinion polls and hopefully will be able to interview all of the candidates once we've got a full picture of the upcoming first Presidential contest of 2015. One Labor Party activist told us that they were excited to have a ticket quickly and that since it was two well-respected Atlasians, that after the great Senate results that party fortunes were looking up. A People's Party member told us that while they were happy that they won't have to go through an arduous primary, that Cinci and Duke was a bit too right-leaning for their taste and that "The People's Party is a party of the center-left, not the center-right, in my view". It's thought that with BK, a member of The People's Party left wing, that it will siphon votes away from what is likely to be the endorsed TPP ticket, Though it's still early days and there could still be more candidates to declare.

Weekly Economic Forecast

The Following is an economic forecast for the Regions and Atlasia at large:

Northeast: Unemployment: 5.5%
IDS: Unemployment: 6.1%
Mideast: Unemployment: 6.7%
Midwest: Unemployment: 5.8%
Pacific: Unemployment: 8.7%
National: Unemployment: 6.3% Inflation: 4% (fixed)
Inner City Youth: Unemployment: 9.1%

Overall Analysis

The Holiday season led us to reports that unemployment would be down were right on the money. However, another report that told us that the figures would be below 6% were, as it turns out, too optimistic. Unemployment, though down big for the holidays thanks to increased hiring, did not get below that 6% mark that optimistic analysts were excitedly projecting.

Economist and writer Katherine Wagner told The Atlasian Democrat that the Atlasian economy has seen a major boost thanks to the season and that this shouldn't be regarded as a permanent spike. However, Economics Prof. Ed Anderson of The University of Pittsburgh disagrees with that analysis and says that the Atlasian economy could be heading for a longer term boost.

As requested, we printed the inner city youth unemployment figures. Unfortunately, we've found that the boost to the overall national employment figures have not really been seen by inner city youth. Because most businesses are reluctant to open and operate in inner cities, most of the young job seekers are dependent upon the government and other labor cooperatives for work and though youth unemployment is down, it has not seen the marked improvement as the rest of the country.

[Dr. Cynic]

What is inner city youth defined as?

I defined it as any young person between 16 and 18 who is old enough and able to hold employment and lives inside a city's central limits (As opposed to suburban youths).

Also, if I might request in the future, inquiries like this please go in my office and not in the newspaper so I can keep it as uncluttered as possible. I hope that answers your question.

[Dr. Cynic]

What is inner city youth defined as?

I defined it as any young person between 16 and 18 who is old enough and able to hold employment and lives inside a city's central limits (As opposed to suburban youths).

Also, if I might request in the future, inquiries like this please go in my office and not in the newspaper so I can keep it as uncluttered as possible. I hope that answers your question.

So, these are 16-18 year olds who are seeking full time work and are not in high school? Inversely, the other 91% are in full-time jobs and not in high school?

They can either be students or not. That wasn't taken into consideration when I did the figures. I simply used any 16-18 year old who could be considered employable for either part time or full time work.

[Dr. Cynic]

What is inner city youth defined as?

I defined it as any young person between 16 and 18 who is old enough and able to hold employment and lives inside a city's central limits (As opposed to suburban youths).

Also, if I might request in the future, inquiries like this please go in my office and not in the newspaper so I can keep it as uncluttered as possible. I hope that answers your question.

So, these are 16-18 year olds who are seeking full time work and are not in high school? Inversely, the other 91% are in full-time jobs and not in high school?

They can either be students or not. That wasn't taken into consideration when I did the figures. I simply used any 16-18 year old who could be considered employable for either part time or full time work.

So you're telling me that 90% or so of ALL 16-18 year olds in urban areas have full or part time jobs? I find your figure to be absurd. You also seem to include people who aren't working for work since you're using the term "employable" which would mean everyone. People not looking for work are not included in unemployment rates.

Did I say that I included people who weren't looking? If so, then I either misspoke or you've misinterpreted me.

Either way, that's the figure and you're going to have to deal with it or you can take the job back and do it right this time.

[Dr. Cynic]

What is inner city youth defined as?

I defined it as any young person between 16 and 18 who is old enough and able to hold employment and lives inside a city's central limits (As opposed to suburban youths).

Also, if I might request in the future, inquiries like this please go in my office and not in the newspaper so I can keep it as uncluttered as possible. I hope that answers your question.

So, these are 16-18 year olds who are seeking full time work and are not in high school? Inversely, the other 91% are in full-time jobs and not in high school?

They can either be students or not. That wasn't taken into consideration when I did the figures. I simply used any 16-18 year old who could be considered employable for either part time or full time work.

So you're telling me that 90% or so of ALL 16-18 year olds in urban areas have full or part time jobs? I find your figure to be absurd. You also seem to include people who aren't working for work since you're using the term "employable" which would mean everyone. People not looking for work are not included in unemployment rates.

Did I say that I included people who weren't looking? If so, then I either misspoke or you've misinterpreted me.

Either way, that's the figure and you're going to have to deal with it or you can take the job back and do it right this time.

I honestly thought you were doing a fine job before you put in unnecessary statistics that you haven't thought through. Regardless, I'm asking you what this figure does and does not include.

I considered employable youths to be 16-18 year old people who were actively looking for employment. They wouldn't be living in what would be considered a suburban environment. I also mentioned that unemployment was lower across the board after the holiday season. Ordinarily, it would be higher, something like 10-12%, I'd guess. But again, it's a guess.

I'd ask you to relax a little bit too. But hey, if you wanted to help me out with the math, I'd more than welcome it because I said it once, twice, two hundred times, it wasn't a strong suit. So, if you have any statistics that could help me, I'd be appreciative. If not, then it's just going to have to stand.

[Dr. Cynic]

The Atlasian Democrat

Your Source for Atlasia's News!

Crimean Deal Announced

After tense negotiations between Atlasia and Russia, a treaty has been announced between the two nations that would allow Crimea to become an independent nation, Russian currency protected and Russia renouncing any interest in annexing the rest of Eastern Europe. While popular with some, others have called it an act of appeasement and compared it to the Munich agreement with Hitler.

Foreign Policy analyst Jim Lewis had this to say regarding it; "Those who regard it as another Munich or a form of appeasement may not fully grasp the situation. Russia gets very little out of the treaty, even though the negotiations were conducted with a lot of toughness on both sides. Secretary Potus probably got the best deal out of this that he could and still avoid a conflict. Crimea doesn't end up a Russian possession and if Russia does have any further designs on Eastern Europe, then it gives NATO an excuse to fight."

Still, others say that Russia was pushing things too far. Conservatives have called on President Lumine to repudiate the agreement and force Russia to back down, which could create a war. These are very stressful times it seems for many average Atlasians who don't seem in the mood to fight it out with Russia on this issue so far. More to follow as we learn it.

[Dr. Cynic]

The Atlasian Democrat

Your Source for Atlasia's News!

Northeast Senate Race Heating Up

With Senator Bore's decision to retire from the Senate in order to run for President, The Atlasian Democrat will be taking a look at the now what we believe will be one of the closest and most competitive races in the upcoming election cycle. Northeast Judicial Officer Talleyrand and Northeast Representative Sirnick are locked in a competitive contest for the job of replacing the most powerful Senator in Atlasia. Both Talleyrand and Sirnick have been running active campaigns. Sirnick has so far been somewhat more detailed in his policy proposals, though a insider on the Talleyrand campaign told us that we should expect his more detail oriented issue platform soon. Both are well-tenured and we expect the campaign to be an exciting one. Sirnick has already detailed several issues, specifically game reform, which he intends to run on. Former Labor Party Chairman Griffin has been asking very critical questions of Sirnick, but so far the tone of the campaign has been quite civil.

So far, Talleyrand has a slight edge in the polls, but there are still several undecided voters such as Northeast resident Bryan McGee who told us that he hadn't come close to making his mind up yet. "I want to see how the campaign continues and we'll see where I stand on election day," he said to us.

[Dr. Cynic]

The Atlasian Democrat

Your Source for Atlasia's News!

Russian Troops Begin Withdrawal Process

In what must be regarded as a victory for the administration, Russian troops have begun the process of withdrawal from Crimea. Sources close to the situation have said to us that the goal is to have all Russian troops withdrawn by March 1st. When asked for comment, Secretary General of NATO, Jens Stoltenberg told the press that he was pleased to see that Russia was keeping up the terms of the bargain.
"We are pleased to see Russia take this positive step forward for international relations. Obviously, there is much work left to be done with regards to the Crimean agreement, including creating a new independent nation, which is no easy task."

Stoltenberg and others are hopeful that Putin will keep to the terms of the agreement, but here at home, several Atlasian politicians remain highly skeptical.

Civil Rights Act Debate Continues

The massive 2014 Civil Rights Act bill is still being debated in the Senate. So far, the bill has undergone numerous changes since first introduced and it appears to be ready to undergo even more before final voting is started. Senator Bore's most recent amendment struck the passage of the bill that would allow women regardless of age to be able to receive birth control for free, which was objected to by the leftist lion, Senator TNF. However, it may be a case of simply cleaning up some "redundant language".

Senator Bore said that Section 2.1 of the bill made Section 2.9 redundant as it stated that contraception would be free of charge, covered by the Department of Internal Affairs. While we've not had a comment from Senator TNF, a source close to him states that the Senator is unswerving in his support for the rights of women.

"Section 2.1 does not make it clear that a woman of any age has the right to purchase birth control and that is language we are very concerned about," said TNF supporter and women's rights campaigner Melissa Elbridge. "While we see that most Senators support the rights of women, we worry that if there is continued ambiguous language that it could open things up to discrimination."

[Dr. Cynic]

The Atlasian Democrat

Your Source for Atlasia's News!

Campaign Settles In For Center-Left

While the right's Presidential candidate, Potus, will no doubt continue to call attention to his stint in the cabinet, one interesting factor about this campaign seems to be the solidifying of the forces of the left and center-left. Labor and TPP, having just recently been embroiled in a major fight for the soul of Atlasian progressive politics, seem to be working harmoniously to elect their joint ticket in the first election of the year. One Labor activist told us that the Bore/BK ticket is the most exciting Labor ticket they've ever volunteered for. A TPP worker said that cooperation among the two parties has been easy for the most part. "It helps that Bore and Bacon King are both on the center-left. If one was an extremist, it may not have been as easy."

Even doing his part for the campaign, notable Labor lion, Senator TNF stated that no one could beat the combination. Secretary Potus' hopes for success in what is now a very difficult prospect for him rely on the turnout of the right in his favor.

Mideast Debates High Speed Rail

Atlasia has a large and modern rail network and the Mideast is currently debating a multi-billion dollar investment in their regional railroad. That being the case, The Atlasian Democrat has been conducting an investigation to determine the usage and feasibility of this project which we expect to complete in the next couple of days. Several Mideast legislators are concerned that with the current rail budget of only $0.2 billion, that a milti-billion dollar investment may not be worth it. However, in the Mideast, the most popular rail hub is the Chicago hub where rough estimates hold that close to a million people per year use and pass through the rail stations.

In general, High speed rail in Atlasia has been popular in recent times thanks to low ticket costs compared to other nations and the fact that gas prices remain at above average levels.

Weekly Economic Forecast

The Following is an economic forecast for the Regions and Atlasia at large:

Northeast: Unemployment: 6.1%
IDS: Unemployment: 6.6%
Mideast: Unemployment: 6.5%
Midwest: Unemployment: 6.3%
Pacific: Unemployment: 8.8%
National: Unemployment: 7.2%

Overall Analysis

The overall analysis of the most recent employment figures shows in general a minor uptick in the national average thanks to the elimination of some temporary holiday work. Overall economic indicators though must be considered in good shape because though there was a rise, in general employment has held up well and looks to continue doing so as was explained to us by economics Prof. Ed Anderson that with the public and private sectors expanding, look for the rates to remain lower than they have been in some time.

He noted that while the numbers themselves may not seem spectacular, that in fact, they are a positive sign moving forward for employment in the country.

[Dr. Cynic]

The Atlasian Democrat

Your Source for Atlasia's News!

Fallout of French Terror Attacks

After the cold blooded murder of several French journalists and others, we finally are able to take stock of the terror that had gripped France over the weekend. Atlasians and others abroad were told to stay in as French police searched the countryside for the suspects. Eventually found, a massive shootout saw the deaths of three terror suspects, however, radical elements vowed to continue targeting civilians in France and other nations. A march of world leaders, led by French President Francois Hollande, was made in defiance of the radicals and went off without a hitch. President Lumine has promised Atlasian aid to France however they may require it. Here at home, people remain somewhat anxious. A terror attack on Atlasia months ago led to the nation descending into a chaotic period. Many people want to avoid a retread of that disaster.

"We should all stand united against terrorism," Robert Stark, a Baltimore engineering student, said to us. "My sister happened to be in France this past week and I can't tell you how hard it is to continue to worry about the safety of a loved one. We just got over our own attacks..."

Clearly, the mood of the country is a bit shaken in the wake of the news, but there was optimism also. One woman told us that she planned to continue on her European holiday and wasn't worried for her safety. "They'll take care of us," she said. "I am not afraid."

Native Atlasians Protest Over Unemployment, Health and Education Access

Story contributed by Barnes

Recent figures showing that the unemployment rate for Native Atlasians increased to a two-year high of 16% have sparked protests and demonstrations among Native associations and on reservations.  The largest rally occurred near the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation (part of the Oglala Sioux tribe) in South Dakota with some 5,000 natives and local residents marking in protest of the local reservation jobless rate of near 19%.

The protests have remained civil and seem to be having the intended effect of drawing media and government interest.

Secondary themes common among the protests included demands for a easier and fairer access to health and education resources on reservations -- health issues, and in particular alcohol related deaths, have blighted reservations for years.

Tribal leaders have accused both regional and federal administrations of being indifferent to their grievances.  Bryan Brewer, President of the Pine Ridge Reservation, interviewed during the rally, stated, "It doesn't really matter who's in charge in Nyman, things never change for us here.  We've been talking about these issues for years, and I think the total lack of response over the most recent unemployment figures shows that Native Atlasians have been forgotten and left behind."

Budget Debate Drags On As Emergency Resolution Enacted

Emergency action was deemed necessary by the Senate during the budget debate as President Lumine asked for a resolution keeping last year's budget in effect until this year's can pass. The administration and the Senate seem to be at odds over spending, which is little surprise to observers who have watched the battles between a left wing legislature and a right wing executive. Senator Lief said frankly on the Senate floor that with inflation numbers up, he would refuse to vote for any tax cuts in the budget.

Senate Speaker and Presidential candidate Bore mentioned how uncomfortable he was with the President's proposed cut in health care to facilitate a tax cut for the wealthy and the Senate defeated the President's motion, introduced by Senator Yankee on near unanimous grounds. Insiders tell us that the President and the administration as a whole are deeply frustrated with the lack of progress they wanted to achieve in terms of taxation reform. While our sources requested anonymity, Atlasian historian and political scientist Al Samuelson told us that the Lumine Administration is certainly suffering from the makeup of the Senate. "When he had a more moderate legislature to work with, the people inside found it very easy, but now towards the end, President Lumine is seeing the most difficulty he's had in his Presidency. His leadership is going to really be tested until we have a new administration."