Porce News Network: October 2005

[minionofmidas]

Actually, allow me revise that.

Void may be too strong.
I don't believe his name should be officially placed on the ballot, however he should be allowed to gain votes via write-in, which must state a VP choice also.

Compliance must then be made with the Unified Electoral Code Act, Section 1 (5): "In order for write-in votes for a candidate to qualify as countable votes, the person written-in must formally accept the write-in candidacy before the end of voting in the given election."

I would also say that I feel such an acceptance must also be made by the VP choice for the vote to be valid.

When Jesus had no running mate, he was listed on the ballot anyways. Of course votes without a written-in veep were invalid.
A lot of people considered that (first sentence) to be wrong at the time, but unless the law has changed, the precedent once set should be adhered to.

[Emsworth]

A lot of people considered that (first sentence) to be wrong at the time, but unless the law has changed, the precedent once set should be adhered to.

Not if the precedent is incorrect.

[KEmperor]

This would imply that Mike Naso's candidacy is also void.

Yes, but only for competency reasons.

[Јas]

A lot of people considered that (first sentence) to be wrong at the time, but unless the law has changed, the precedent once set should be adhered to.

Not if the precedent is incorrect.

Agreed, and I believe that an arguable case exists such that precedent in this case ought to be overruled.

[WiseGuy]

October 2005
CheeseWhiz (MRL-FL)
- Secretary of Forum Affairs Ilikeverin
- Midwest Lieutenant Governor Jas
- Fmr. Pacific Regional Chairman of the Libertarian Party Everett

I also endorse CheeseWhiz.  No offense to DanielX, you've been a great Senator...but Cheese is my brother, after all

[jokerman]

October 2005
CheeseWhiz (MRL-FL)
- Secretary of Forum Affairs Ilikeverin
- Midwest Lieutenant Governor Jas
- Fmr. Pacific Regional Chairman of the Libertarian Party Everett

I also endorse CheeseWhiz.  No offense to DanielX, you've been a great Senator...but Cheese is my brother, after all

Nepotism

[Ebowed]

October 14, 2005

October 2005 DemoChoice Presidential Poll #2
A Ebowed News Network DemoChoice poll that was open between October 12th and October 13th, 2005.  48 ballots were cast.

Round 1
Emsworth (IL-FL)/Q (CU-GA) - 15
Dubya (ACA-TX)/htmldon (CU-TN) - 11
Joe Republic (I-OH)/Defarge (IL-NY) - 8
Supersoulty (CD-PA)/Frodo (CD-VA) - 7
LiberalPA (SD-PA)/skybridge (I-MI) - 4
Jesus (JC-WA)/Lewis Trondheim (SD-NM) - 3

Round 2
Emsworth (IL-FL)/Q (CU-GA) - 16
Dubya (ACA-TX)/htmldon (CU-TN) - 11
Joe Republic (I-OH)/Defarge (IL-NY) - 9
Supersoulty (CD-PA)/Frodo (CD-VA) - 7
LiberalPA (SD-PA)/skybridge (I-MI) - 5

Round 3
Emsworth (IL-FL)/Q (CU-GA) - 16
Joe Republic (I-OH)/Defarge (IL-NY) - 13
Dubya (ACA-TX)/htmldon (CU-TN) - 11
Supersoulty (CD-PA)/Frodo (CD-VA) - 7
None of these - 1

Round 4
Joe Republic (I-OH)/Defarge (IL-NY) - 17
Emsworth (IL-FL)/Q (CU-GA) - 16
Dubya (ACA-TX)/htmldon (CU-TN) - 13
None of these - 2

Round 5
Joe Republic (I-OH)/Defarge (IL-NY) - 23
Emsworth (IL-FL)/Q (CU-GA) - 23
None of these - 2

[Ebowed]

Oh yeah, and now King chose Josh22 as his running mate, but Josh22 didn't confirm.  Any word from the SoFA?  I doubt this would be valid, but just making sure...

[King]

Oh yeah, and now King chose Josh22 as his running mate, but Josh22 didn't confirm.  Any word from the SoFA?  I doubt this would be valid, but just making sure...

Unless I'm mistaken, there is no law saying the running-mate has to announce himself.

[Speed of Sound]

23-23. This election should be good.

[ilikeverin]

Oh yeah, and now King chose Josh22 as his running mate, but Josh22 didn't confirm.  Any word from the SoFA?  I doubt this would be valid, but just making sure...

Unless I'm mistaken, there is no law saying the running-mate has to announce himself.

All I can find is 'The President will be elected with a Vice President'.

However, I may be a dirty liberal and go with the spirit of the constitution, though that might lead to a court case.

Hmm.

[Ebowed]

October 15, 2005

Candidacy Declaration Deadline Passes; Absentee Voting Opens
Nyman, DC-- The declaration of candidacy deadline for federal elections passed yesterday, and Secretary of Forum Affairs Ilikeverin accordingly opened the absentee ballot voting booth.  With no Senatorial race unopposed, and eight presidential candidates, this may one of the most exciting elections Atlasia has seen in months.  Unfortunately, partially due to apathy and partially due to the lack of someone who wishes to moderate, no presidential debate has been held, let alone a vice presidential one.  A Mideast Senatorial debate, moderated by former President pro tempore Gabu, is taking place, and a townhall debate with Midwest candidates DanielX and CheeseWhiz is also open.  Empty or disregarded debate challenges and scheduling problems have left the other races without any debates as of yet.

As certified by Secretary Ilikeverin, the federal ballot is as follows:

President/Vice President
Dubya (ACA-TX)/htmldon (CU-TN)
Emsworth (IL-FL)/Q (CU-GA)
Jesus (JC-WA)/Lewis Trondheim (SD-NM)
Joe Republic (I-OH)/Defarge (IL-NY)
King (CU-MA)/Write-in VP
Mike Naso (ACA-OH)/Write-in VP
Speed of Sound (SD-PA)/skybridge (I-MI)
Supersoulty (CD-PA)/Frodo (CD-VA)

Mideast Senate
Akno21 (SD-MD)
MasterJedi (ACA-WI)*

Midwest Senate
CheeseWhiz (MRL-MT)
DanielX (ACA-WY)*

Northeast Senate
Colin Wixted (CU-PA)*
Kevin (REF-PA)

Pacific Senate
hughento (I-OR)
True Independent (CU-WA)*

Southeast Senate
Jake (CD-MS)
ThePrezMex (CU-TX)

* Denotes an incumbent.

Absentee Voting Booth is open NOW.

[King]

Oh yeah, and now King chose Josh22 as his running mate, but Josh22 didn't confirm.  Any word from the SoFA?  I doubt this would be valid, but just making sure...

Unless I'm mistaken, there is no law saying the running-mate has to announce himself.

All I can find is 'The President will be elected with a Vice President'.

However, I may be a dirty liberal and go with the spirit of the constitution, though that might lead to a court case.

Hmm.

Eh, doesn't really matter.  Not like I am going to win or anything.

[Ebowed]

Absentee Ballots for Federal Elections, October 2005

President/Vice President
Round 1
Emsworth (IL-FL)/Q (U-GA) - 2
Supersoulty (CD-PA)/Frodo (CD-VA) - 1

Mideast Senate
Round 1
No votes.

Midwest Senate
Round 1
No votes.

Northeast Senate
Round 1
No votes.

Pacific Senate
Round 1
No votes.

Southeast Senate
Round 1
Jake (CD-MS) - 2
Abstain - 1

Ballots counted:  Cosmo Kramer, Ian, Jake.

Click here to cast an absentee ballot.

[Ebowed]

October 15, 2005

October 2005 Poll #5 Results
This PNN poll was open between October 14th and October 15th, 2005.  There were forty-five responses.

1.) What is your political affiliation?
Constitutional Union Party - 24.4%
Independent/Other - 22.2%
Atlasian Conservative Alliance - 15.6%
Independent Liberal Party - 13.3%
Christian Democratic Party - 13.3%
Social Democratic Party - 11.1%

2.) Southeast Gubernatorial Race (Approval Voting)
TCash101 (IL-TN) - 10
Bono (I-SC) - 8
Write-in/Other - 1

3.) Midwest Senatorial Race (7 responses)
Governor CheeseWhiz (MRL-MT) - 42.9%
Senator DanielX (ACA-WY) - 28.6%
Write-in Everett (CU-MT) - 14.3%
Undecided - 14.3%

4.) Southeast Senate (17 responses)
Jake (CD-MS) - 35.3%
ThePrezMex (CU-TX) - 41.2%
Blank "Other" Reponse - 11.7%
Abstain - 5.9%
Undecided - 5.9%

5.) President (First Preference)
Emsworth (IL-FL)/Q (CU-GA) - 28.9%
Dubya (ACA-TX)/htmldon (CU-TN) - 20.0%
Joe Republic (I-OH)/Defarge (IL-NY) - 15.9%
Supersoulty (CD-PA)/Frodo (CD-VA) - 15.9%
LiberalPA (SD-PA)/skybridge (I-MI) - 8.9%
Jesus (JC-WA)/Lewis Trondheim (SD-NM) - 4.4%
King (CU-MA)/Write-in VP - 4.4%
Mike Naso (ACA-OH)/Write-in VP - 2.2%
None of the Above - 0.0%

6.) President (Second Preference)
Joe Republic (I-OH)/Defarge (IL-NY) - 28.9%
Emsworth (IL-FL)/Q (CU-GA) - 17.8%
Supersoulty (CD-PA)/Frodo (CD-VA) - 13.3%
LiberalPA (SD-PA)/skybridge (I-MI) - 11.1%
Dubya (ACA-TX)/htmldon (CU-TN) - 8.9%
Jesus (JC-WA)/Lewis Trondheim (SD-NM) - 8.9%
No Second Preference - 6.7%
King (CU-MA)/Write-in VP - 4.4%
Mike Naso (ACA-OH)/Write-in VP - 0.0%

7.) President (Third Preference)
Supersoulty (CD-PA)/Frodo (CD-VA) - 28.9%
Emsworth (IL-FL)/Q (CU-GA) - 15.6%
Dubya (ACA-TX)/htmldon (CU-TN) - 11.1%
Joe Republic (I-OH)/Defarge (IL-NY) - 13.3%
King (CU-MA)/Write-in VP - 13.3%
No Third Preference - 8.9%
LiberalPA (SD-PA)/skybridge (I-MI) - 6.7%
Jesus (JC-WA)/Lewis Trondheim (SD-NM) - 2.2%
Mike Naso (ACA-OH)/Write-in VP - 0.0%

8.) Would you support your region's secession from Atlasia if the federal government imposed laws you deemed tyrannical or otherwise unacceptable?

Northeast (6 responses):
Yes 33.3%
No 50.0%
Unsure 16.7%

Southeast (17 responses):
Yes 58.8%
No 29.4%
Unsure 11.7%

Mideast (6 responses):
Yes 33.3%
No 66.7%
Unsure 0.0%

Midwest (7 responses):
Yes 42.9%
No 28.6%
Unsure 28.6%

Pacific (9 responses):
Yes 22.2%
No 66.7%
Unsure 11.1%


Approval results coming up soon.

[Ebowed]

October 15, 2005

Senate, Governor, GM Approval Ratings
This PNN poll was open between October 14th and October 15th, 2005.  There were forty-five responses.

Senator Defarge
In District 1:
Strongly Approve - 42.9%
Somewhat Approve - 14.3%
Somehwat Disapprove - 14.3%
Strongly Disapprove - 28.6%

Outside District 1:
Strongly Approve - 26.3%
Somewhat Approve - 47.4%
Somewhat Disapprove - 21.1%
Strongly Disapprove 5.3%

Senator Al
In District 2:
Strongly Approve - 87.5%
Somewhat Approve - 0.0%
Somewhat Disapprove - 0.0%
Strongly Disapprove - 12.5%

Outside District 2:
Strongly Approve - 27.0%
Somewhat Appove - 43.2%
Somewhat Disapprove - 23.2%
Strongly Disapprove - 5.4%

Senator PBrunsel
In District 3:
Strongly Approve - 16.7%
Somewhat Approve - 58.3%
Somewhat Disapprove - 16.7%
Strongly Disapprove - 8.3%

Outside District 3:
Strongly Approve - 30.3%
Somewhat Approve - 48.5%
Somewhat Disapprove - 15.2%
Strongly Disapprove - 6.1%

Senator Ebowed
In District 4:
Strongly Approve - 50.0%
Somewhat Approve - 16.7%
Somewhat Disapprove - 11.1%
Strongly Disapprove - 22.2%

Outside District 4:
Strongly Approve - 18.5%
Somewhat Approve - 51.9%
Somewhat Disapprove - 14.8%
Strongly Disapprove - 14.8%

Senator Gabu
In District 5:
Strongly Approve - 41.7%
Somewhat Approve - 33.3%
Somewhat Disapprove - 8.3%
Strongly Disapprove - 16.7%

Outside District 5:
Strongly Approve - 42.4%
Somewhat Approve - 42.4%
Somewhat Disapprove - 6.1%
Strongly Disapprove - 9.1%

Senator Colin Wixted
In the Northeast:
Strongly Approve - 37.5%
Somewhat Approve - 25.0%
Somewhat Disapprove - 0.0%
Strongly Disapprove - 37.5%

Outside the Northeast:
Strongly Approve - 29.7%
Somewhat Approve - 35.1%
Somewhat Disapprove - 24.3%
Strongly Disapprove - 10.8%

Senator MasterJedi
In the Mideast:
Strongly Approve - 25.0%
Somewhat Approve - 37.5%
Somewhat Disapprove - 25.0%
Strongly Disapprove - 12.5%

Outside the Mideast:
Strongly Approve - 37.8%
Somewhat Approve - 29.7%
Somewhat Disapprove - 18.9%
Strongly Disapprove - 13.6%

Senator Q
In the Southeast:
Strongly Approve - 70.6%
Somewhat Approve - 23.5%
Somewhat Disapprove - 0.0%
Strongly Disapprove - 5.9%

Outside the Southeast:
Strongly Approve - 25.0%
Somewhat Approve - 53.6%
Somewhat Disapprove - 21.4%
Strongly Disapprove - 0.0%

Senator DanielX
In the Midwest:
Strongly Approve - 40.0%
Somewhat Approve - 30.0%
Somewhat Disapprove - 10.0%
Strongly Disapprove - 30.0%

Outside the Midwest:
Strongly Approve - 17.1%
Somewhat Approve - 42.9%
Somewhat Disapprove - 25.8%
Strongly Disapprove - 14.3%

Senator True Democrat
In the Pacific
Strongly Approve - 18.2%
Somewhat Approve - 45.4%
Somewhat Disapprove - 9.1%
Strongly Disapprove - 27.2%

Outside the Pacific
Strongly Approve - 8.8%
Somewhat Approve - 44.4%
Somewhat Disapprove - 26.5%
Strongly Disapprove - 20.6%

Governor Bono (Southeast Only)
Strongly Approve - 41.2%
Somewhat Approve - 23.5%
Somewhat Disapprove - 17.6%
Strongly Disapprove - 17.6%

Governor John Ford (Pacific Only)
Strongly Approve - 36.4%
Somewhat Approve - 18.2%
Somewhat Disapprove - 18.2%
Strongly Disapprove - 27.3%

Governor EarlAW (Northeast Only)
Strongly Approve - 50.0%
Somewhat Approve - 12.5%
Somewhat Disapprove - 12.5%
Strongly Disapprove - 25.0%

Governor 9iron (Mideast Only)
Strongly Approve - 0.0%
Somewhat Approve - 37.5%
Somewhat Disapprove - 37.5%
Strongly Disapprove - 25.0%

Governor CheeseWhiz (Midwest Only)
Strongly Approve - 55.6%
Somewhat Approve - 33.3%
Somewhat Disapprove - 0.0%
Strongly Disapprove - 11.1%

Game Moderator Sam Spade
Strongly Approve - 35.6%
Somewhat Approve - 37.8%
Somewhat Disapprove - 13.3%
Strongly Disapprove - 13.3%

[Ebowed]

October 15, 2005

Interview with Presidential Candidate Joe Republic
Ebowed News Network interviews former Mideast Governor Joe Republic, who is running for President as an Independent.

Ebowed:  Former Governor Joe Republic, thank you for joining me today.

Joe Republic:  Thank you, it's a pleasure to be here.

Ebowed:  You have served Atlasia as the Mideast Lieutenant Governor and Governor; what did you learn from these offices?  What would you consider your greatest accomplishment as Mideast Governor?

Joe Republic:  Well firstly I learned an important lesson in responsibility.  Peter Bell and then the Mideast population at large placed a great deal of faith in my ability to govern, and I learned that the most important thing is not to disappoint them.

I would say that my greatest accomplishment as Mideast Governor is probably my continuation of Peter Bell's program to get the regional government more organized.  Under my leadership, I ensured that the previously vacant Superior Court was constantly represented; that the Governor would be allowed the use of executive order in times of emergency; and I introduced a contingency plan for if the members of the executive became inactive.  I am also proud of my defense against the Southeast region's demands that the state of Virginia be transferred over to them.

Ebowed:  What would your administration's policy be on economic issues facing Atlasia today such as federal funding of the arts, social security reform, and farm subsidies?

Joe Republic:  Generally speaking, my administration would pursue a pragmatic approach to most economic issues.  Of the examples you gave, I will state for the record that I am opposed to federal funding for the arts; simply because it is unfair to force taxpayers to pay part of the cost of art that they might find distasteful.

I agree with the general consensus that social security requires reform.  However, none of the proposals I have seen so far have been particularly inspirational.  I plan to delegate part of this task to my nominee for Treasury Secretary.

On the issue of farm subsidies, I can't say that I fully support total abolition.  I would prefer to cut subsidies to so-called 'agri-businesses', and maintain or increase them for small farms.

Ebowed:  Why do you believe you are the best qualified person running for President in this race?

Joe Republic:  Simply because I think I have the most passion and commitment to the role.  Not only that, but I can see glaring threats to the stability of fantasy politics that I intend to address almost as soon as I am elected.

Ebowed:  What is one positive quality about each of your opponents (Dubya, LiberalPA, Supersoulty, Emsworth, Jesus, Mike Naso, King)?

Joe Republic:  Dubya is confident and considerate, and I supported him during his tenure as Southeast Governor despite our differences.  Speed of Sound is passionate and enthusiastic, and refuses to let defeat hold him back.  Supersoulty is highly experienced, having been here since the very first days of Atlasia.  Emsworth is very knowledgeable, active and competent.  Jesus and Mike Naso are both feisty and straightforward characters.  King is unconventional in his approach to fantasy elections, which is always a good thing in my book.

Ebowed:  Why did you choose Defarge as your running mate?

Joe Republic:  It's incredibly important for a Vice President to be just as competent and committed to his job as the President.  This is simply because the VP could one day be doing the same job.  Defarge is both of these things, as well as a well-respected statesman with a common sense approach to government.

Ebowed:  What is the main message you wish to send to Atlasian voters?

Joe Republic:  If you are as concerned as we are about the decline of fun in fantasy politics, and the future of the game in general, then we really need your support next weekend.  The program of forum affairs reform that I'm outlining in my campaign should set us on the right track.

Ebowed:  How do you believe we will be able to tackle the issue of declining forum activity?

Joe Republic:  In my last speech I outlined some basic measures to help prevent this.  First, we need to open the forum up to Google archiving; thus making it easier for potential newbies to find us.  Second, we ought to implement a kind of 'buddy' scheme for all new registrants, to ensure that they understand how the game works, and encourage them to stay.  Third, every Atlasian should take some responsibility for trying to introduce politically-minded friends to the game.

Ebowed:  Will you seek an isolationist foreign policy?  What could we expect from a Joe Republic administration on the issue of trade?

Joe Republic:  I am not an isolationist, and I welcome the idea of global free trade.  However, this belief only goes as far as how such agreements affect Atlasian industry and workers.  Quite simply, if free trade agreements such as CAFTA cause more damage than good to our economic infrastructure, then it should be abolished.  It's as simple as that.

Ebowed:  You are well-known as a proponent of a secret ballot voting system.  Will this be an issue that you persue if elected?

Joe Republic:  Yes it will.  An independent commission reported its recommendations for a new secret ballot system over a month ago, and so far nobody has acted on it.  If elected, I pledge to follow through with every single recommendation before my term is out.  Although my support for the secret ballot has been pretty fierce in the past, I will endeavor to listen to the views of those who oppose or are wary of it, and I look forward to a lively debate on the subject.

Ebowed:  How do you believe your successor as Mideast Governor, 9iron, is doing?

Joe Republic:  Of course it hasn't been very long since 9iron was elected to serve as Mideast Governor.  But so far he has shown quiet diligence in the role, and I am confident in his abilities.

Ebowed:  What is your view on gun rights and self-defense rights?  Would your administration persue the repeal of the Protection of the Right to Bear Arms Bill passed in the eighth senate?

Joe Republic:  Personally, I find the use of guns distasteful in our civilized society.  However, I don't believe that anybody should be penalized for using them sensibly, safely, and/or in self-defense.  That's why I support the Protection of the Right to Bear Arms Bill (which I believe was passed in the ninth senate, not the eighth ), which is a well-written and level-headed act of legislation.  (Ed. note:  Joe Republic is correct that this bill was passed in the ninth, not the eighth, Senate.)

Ebowed:  If any vacancies in the Supreme Court opened, what sort of justices would you pledge to nominate?

Joe Republic:  Only the most competent and capable.  I'm not averse to making any controversial nominations either, providing such a nominee meets both of those criteria.

Ebowed:  What sort of Cabinet would you appoint if elected?

Joe Republic:  Again, only the most competent and capable.  As most of you know, I have no interest in party allegiances, and I won't fill my Cabinet with 'cronies' either.  I'll be placing all of my nominees in the highest expectations for general activity and vigorous participation in relevant Senate debates.  I won't be afraid to ask them to resign or simply fire them if they fall below those expectations.

Ebowed:  What sort of balance between the federal and regional governments do you believe is reasonable?  Would you seek to expand federal control of certain issues, or reduce it?

Joe Republic:  The balance we appear to have now seems to work quite well in my opinion.  I believe the federal government can cope quite easily with dealing with the more mundane legislation.  Whereas I would prefer to see 'hot-topic' issues dealt with at the regional level in future.

Ebowed:  Do you support a constitutional amendment that allows the federal government to set a minimum wage, or do you think it should be up to the regions?

Joe Republic:  This is a good example of a 'hot-topic' issue that I would prefer to see dealt with at the regional level.  However, in the interests of compromise, I believe the federal government could impose some parameters for a minimum wage (e.g. an absolute minimum and maximum), and the regional governments could set their own levels within those parameters.

Ebowed:  What is your greatest concern for Atlasia?

Joe Republic:  Increasing inactivity, caused by the game becoming less fun.  Making fantasy politics more fun is the No. 1 priority of my campaign, and will remain so during my administration.

Ebowed:  Governor, thank you for joining me today, and good luck to you and Defarge in the election next weekend.

Joe Republic:  Thank you for inviting me here, Senator.  It's been a pleasure.

[Ebowed]

October 15, 2005

Interview with Senate Candidate Jake
Ebowed News Network interviews Former Secretary of Defense Jake, who is running for Southeast Senate.

Ebowed:  Former Secretary of Defense Jake, thank you for joining me today.

Jake:  Thanks for having me Ebowed.

Ebowed:  What is the main issue you wish to focus on in this campaign?  What do you believe the Southeast needs to know about the candidates in this race?

Jake:  The main thing my candidacy is about is continuing the legacy of activity and service exhibited by our last two Southeast Senators, Sam Spade and Q.

The Southeastern citizens need to recognize that there is a deep contrast between the two candidates. I have run an active campaign on the issues and my activity. So far, my opponent has barely run a campaign in which he has relied upon my reputation for his votes.

Ebowed:  If elected Senator, do you have any legislation in mind that you plan on introducing or co-sponsoring?

Jake:  I have a number of bills written already that deal with energy consumption, the United Nations, and forum affairs issues; specifically, an amendment to limit Supreme Court Justices to 12 consecutive months on the bench.

Ebowed:  If elected, you will be the second Christian Democrat to be in the Senate.  What do you see in the future of your party?

Jake:  Hmm, interesting question. It seems like after a hiccup at the start that we've been able to rebound and really get things moving on the platform. I think we've been able to carve out our spot in Atlasia successfully and I really think we have a promising future because of our deep bench of respected Atlasians.

Ebowed:  What do you believe is the biggest problem facing the Senate in its current composition?

Jake:  I think the current Senate is too quick to confirm Cabinet nominees on name alone, disregarding whether they have any knowledge in the area where they are nominated for or whether they have high activity levels. For example, JFK and MAS each fail one of the above criteria, but I expect MAS will join JFK in being confirmed.

Ebowed:  What did you think of the appointment of Q to the Senate to replace the resigned Sam Spade?

Jake:  I was happy that the Governor appointed such a qualified person to fill Sam's shoes. In my opinion, Q has filled Sam's shoes about as well as any candidate could have.

Ebowed:  If elected, economic issues that could come up under your term include social security reform, the continuing-to-linger debate on farm subsidies, and defense spending.  How would you address each of these issues?

Jake:  First, farm subsidies. My position is that it is rediculous for the government to fund corporate farms through subsidies. I have not yet heard a convincing argument for the elimination of funding to family farms, though, and I would support a bill that would cap subsidies to farms based on their revenue.

On the social security reform issue, I'll admit that I am not a master of economic theory. In a debate on social security, my main concerns will be retaining benefits at their current levels. If we can find a way to reform the system within those guidelines, I would support such a plan.

Defense spending is something our Senate has possibly increased too much. The reason I want an active and knowledgable Secretary of Defense is so we can address the fat and waste in the DoD budget and reapportion that money to different projects.

Ebowed:  What is one positive quality about your opponent?

Jake:  I appreciate that ThePrezMex has always been a polite and decent person to everyone on this forum. He has also attempted to vote in almost every election that I can recall.

Ebowed:  People who have tried to discredit you in this race claim you are fascist, a Nazi, and/or pro-torture.  Do you agree that there is any truth in these accusations?

Jake:  Actually, I welcome these accusations, especially about me being a Nazi. It simply shows that people are forced to fall into insults without any "beef" to back them up. I have never seriously advocated genocide against a religious or social group and to claim that I have is hilarious to say the least. About accusations of being pro-torture, I oppose policies that strip our military and law enforcement of options to interrogate prisoners. Let me say, though, that our Constitution as written forbids torture of citizens and I would not seek to overturn that law.

Ebowed:  What did you think of the exit of two candidates from the race just days earlier?

Jake:  I thought Ben Meyers made the right choice in withdrawing from the race. It was obvious that he lacked the time to run a campaign. I was disappointed that StatesRights left though. Though he had not been active so far, I had anticipated that he would pick up the pace of at least his Presidential campaign. His withdrawal came out of left field though.

Ebowed:  If elected, will you be easy to contact for any Southeastern citizen who has a concern, or a suggestion for legislation?

Jake:  My PM box will always be open, so to speak . But yes, anytime a Southeastern needs to discuss something, they can always drop me a PM or an e-mail or see if I'm on AIM. I am on the forum almost every day so I can usually respond quickly to any request or proposition.

Ebowed:  What do you believe is an appropriate balance between the regions and the federal government?  Would you support a constitutional amendment to allow the Senate to create a federal minimum wage?

Jake:  In a perfect world, the regions would legislate on issues that only affect the people of that region. Things like education, health care, retirement benefits, and values issues like abortion and euthanasia would be solved by the regions with funding at least partially from the federal government. There is certainly a place for the government in defense, law enforcement, transportation, interstate and overseas trade, and as a source of revenue for the regions. Specifically on the minimum wage issue, I would oppose a constitutional amendment giving power to regulate wages because I believe that issue is better solved on a regional level.

Ebowed:  Are you a gun rights supporter?

Jake:  I support the right to own and safely use guns for the law abiding populace.

Ebowed:  How do you believe we can fight declining activity in Atlasia?

Jake:  I really think fantasy activity is driven by how in tune the country is with politics. I suspect that sometime next spring or summer we will begin getting an influx of new members because of the real life midterms. Until then, there is really nothing we could do short of advertising ourselves in various places around the net.

Ebowed:  What is your greatest concern for the Southeast?

Jake:  I'm concerned that the Southeast has still not regaining its good name that I participated in sullying. I feel that the only way to recover the respect of the other regions is by serving well in the federal government like our other Senators have done. Policy wise, I'm concerned that the Southeast may go deep into deficit as a result of the latest hurricanes.

Ebowed:  Thank you for your time today, Jake, and good luck in the election next week.

Jake:  Thank you Ebowed and God Bless.

[Ebowed]

October 15, 2005

Interview with Presidential Candidate Mike Naso
Ebowed News Network interviews Former Senator Mike Naso, who is running for President without a vice presidential candidate.

Ebowed:  Former Senator Mike Naso, thank you for joining me today.  Why do you believe you are the most qualified candidate for President?

Mike Naso:  Well, I try and explain my political views in a laymans term way so that I can be on the same page with everyday Atlasians. Atlasia is an amazing nation...and there is no other place where you will see the wonderful working skills of politicans in Atlasia doing their best to help our great citizens, however...I believe that our nation is too large. I firmly believe we need a presidential administration on the scale of the wonderful PBrunsel/Keystone Phil administration, where we saw conservative views put forth, however the overall size of Atlasia's wonderful government seemed to be on a smaller scale than previous administrations. I believe we should once again try and minimize the size of government, put forth a plan to deal with illegal immigrants, and push conservative values for our families...and if elected President of this great nation, I will do just that.

Ebowed:  Who do you encourage the voters to write-in for your vice presidential candidate?

Mike Naso:  I encourage my supporters to write in the person that THEY BELIEVE will best fit the duty of Vice President of Atlasia under a Naso administration...if that happens to be someone on the opposite side of the political spectrum from my personal politics, I believe that this great country would be satisfied with a unity ticket for Atlasia.

Ebowed:  What will be your policy on social security?

Mike Naso:  As President, I believe that social security should be reformed in the short term, definitley within the next two Presidential administrations of Atlasia. If Social Security is not reformed...then what we will see over time is a dramatic increase in our nations tax burden. I believe that by reforming social security...we will be able to give our nations younger generation the chance a more successful future.

Ebowed:  Are you pro-life?  Do you support the Right to Life Amendment?

Mike Naso:  I am pro-life, and I do support the Right to Life Amendment. This nation has some challanging issues to face when it comes to abortion...which I believe is one of the greatest issues that needs resolving in this nation. I do not support abortion except in the case of rape or incest, in which case I do support it...however, not in the final fetus stages. Partial Birth Abortions will be banned in a Naso Administration, if I have anything to say about it.

Ebowed:  What is your opinion on the war on terror?

Mike Naso:  As President, there is a number of things I will do to help our fighting efforts with the war on terror. First things first...North Korea, Iran...if they want to mess around with nuclear toys...they have another thing coming. Secondly, I believe that any country with the intent of inflicting harm and or death on innocent citizens who want to live in freedom is in for a serious situation with a President Naso if I am elected, because I would NOT LET IT STAND. And Finally, we need to continue to support our troops in harms way by making sure they have the proper equiptment in the fighting field.

Ebowed:  Who do you support in the Mideast Senate race between MasterJedi and Akno21?

Mike Naso:  I support MasterJedi, he is a good man who has lead the ACA Convention and his own citizens with the right conservative values I believe a good leader should have. MasterJedi for Senate, once again!

Ebowed:  If elected President, what kind of Cabinet would you appoint?

Mike Naso:  A Center-Right cabinet...conservative enough to push forth those values I believe are important for our countries future, but also moderate enough to be able to have some differences in the political spectrum.

Ebowed:  Do you support expanding the amount of justices on the Supreme Court?

Mike Naso:  Yes I do, the Supreme Court has the rule on the most controversial issues in our nations history...and one vote can mean the difference between one timeline of history and another. Let's expand and get more great minds for the bench.

Ebowed:  What is your opinion on capital punishment?

Mike Naso:  I believe it stand mainly on the issues list when it comes to the execution of prisoners...and in that case, I would have to say Capital Punishment is justified in the court of law.

Ebowed:  Will you be an active President?

Mike Naso:  Yes indeed, a very active...NO NONSENSE president if I am elected to that office.

Ebowed:  Will you veto any legislation?  What sort of bills would you veto?

Mike Naso:  Well, all Presidents sometimes come across a bill they need to or want to veto. Simple as this..if I disagree no sig from me.

Ebowed:  Do you support the right to die?

Mike Naso:  Im sorry...elaborate?

Ebowed:  Euthanasia.

Mike Naso:  No way, Hurricane Jose.

Ebowed:  How would you deal with national disasters or emergencies as president?

Mike Naso:  By making sure we know the situation that is going to occur or that has occured, by having the supplies and aid ready to go to a certian area at any moment in time, as well as having my cabinet informed and together in the event of a national emergency.

Ebowed:  What is your greatest concern for Atlasia?

Mike Naso:  My greatest concern is the doomsday scenario of a breakdown of government function. If our government ever stopped functioning...Atlasia might never recover

Ebowed:  What do you consider your greatest accomplishment as Senator?

Mike Naso:  Showing that even the weakest candidates can win, and show they have what it takes to fight.

Ebowed:  Thank you for your time Mr. Naso and good luck next week.

Mike Naso:  Thank you.

[Joe Republic]

I have a new-found respect for Mike Naso, and I'm not kidding.

By the way Ebowed, thanks again for conducting my interview.  I enjoyed it a great deal.

[CheeseWhiz]

I have a new-found respect for Mike Naso, and I'm not kidding.

Well, I've always been willing to give the kid another chance, but what exactly made you have this new-found respect?  I'm just wondering if you've noticed something I may have missed.

[Joe Republic]

I have a new-found respect for Mike Naso, and I'm not kidding.

Well, I've always been willing to give the kid another chance, but what exactly made you have this new-found respect?  I'm just wondering if you've noticed something I may have missed.

Although I don't agree with him on everything, his interview shows that he isn't just screwing around like I thought he might have been.

[CheeseWhiz]

I have a new-found respect for Mike Naso, and I'm not kidding.

Well, I've always been willing to give the kid another chance, but what exactly made you have this new-found respect?  I'm just wondering if you've noticed something I may have missed.

Although I don't agree with him on everything, his interview shows that he isn't just screwing around like I thought he might have been.

Just read it.  You're right, he does seem genuine.  He just earned a higher preference from me

[CheeseWhiz]

I was looking back at the last page, and just saw that I got a 88.9% approval rating, w00t!

[Joe Republic]

Just read it.  You're right, he does seem genuine.  He just earned a higher preference from me

Not higher than me though, I hope.