The Observer - Interview with Maxwell

[Cranberry]

Article
The Observer - June 10 2014 / 10 125 AA

The Race for Senate Endorsements - Part 1: Pacific, Midwest and IDS
An outlook on who is endorsing whom

The great June Elections are wrapping up, and while most players' positions on the Presidential Election are clear (as is this paper's), the five different Regional Senate Elections are yet in a battle of endorsements. The Observer is reporting, region by region.

San Francisco, California: The Pacific Regional Senate race is yet just a one man race; Senator Tyrion, a notable, more moderate and well respected Laborite, is running for reelection to a third term. Tyrion was automatically endorsed by the Labor Party, while not recieving an endorsement by the Democratic-Republican Party. What is more interesting is however, who could challenge Tyrion, and who had a chance? The Pacific is a Laborite region, yet battles nearly every election with turnout problems, less though in Presidential Elections than in Midterm Elections. The right Federalist or People's Party member could hope for a low turnout, especially among Laborites and Leftists, and also cross-appeal to the more independent wing of the Labor Party, which is historically strong in the Pacific.

Cheesewiz, South Dakota: Senator TNF, stragetic and idealistic mind of the Labor Party, yet the most leftist politician known to Atlasia is running for reelection, against youngster RR1997, whose campaign has for now been silent. TNF could not win in any region but the Midwest, at least without moderating his positions; but his record stands for him: he's always been contested by relatively moderate rightists, yet always survived. Will RR1997 be the one to stop him, a fresh wind, like a Tornado waiving through the Plains? We will surely see.
TNF has been endorsed by the Labor Party, while the Democratic-Republican party is currently holding an endorsement vote, with both candidates currently ex-aequo.

Memphis, Tennessee: The longest serving Senator in the history of Atlasia and current President Pro-Tempore of the Senate, North Carolina Yankee, is finally contested by a candidate with great chances in the IDS, current Legislator Maxwell. The race is currently considered a pure toss-up, so both candidates have sought endorsements by their own other parties. Maxwell is endorsed by the Democratic-Republican party, while NCYankee has the support of his own Federalist Party. The more libertarian wing of the Labor Party is leaning towards Maxwell, as well; but the great majority is more on the side of NCYankee in this race, who is expected to be endorsed by said party.

[Cranberry]

Breaking News:
As just learnt by reliable sources, a decision on the legal case "Snowstalker vs Midwest", concerning the alleged unconstitutionality of the "Midwest LGBT Equality Act", is imminent and expected to come this afternoon. No speculations on the outcome of this case are yet able to be made. The Observer will report further.

[Cranberry]

Comment
The Observer - June 12 2014 / 12 125 AA

Making a fool of oneself:
The Riley Keaton guide on how to do it most effectively!

I write this in full respect of the free speech, that our new talk-radio-governor is so protective of! Reailley - there is no need for silent demonstrators to come besiege my humble residence!
Every man and woman and both or nor have the right of free speech, as guaranteed by our constitution. No Laborite forces want to change this (or do they? Better be silent... One can never know...), and every governor in this country, from the Northeast to the Midwest knows and respects this, even though it is debatable who far this right of "free speech" should go. (Doesn't one's freedom end where one other's begins?)
Anyway, this right of free speech in mind, at least in this humble gentleman's opinion, an elected office-holder, especially as high as governor; may express his view in any way imaginable, but it is part of a respectful cooperation and manners to do so in a somehow subtle or respectful way. After all, our office holders, who represent us, should talk in an expressed manner, and not start a talk-radio of the most extreme kind, where these office holders then go on to bash their political opponents of any kind (meaning anyone not inside this specific officeholder's twelfth of the political spectrum), throw around with false, unreliable and untraceable claims and allegations; and all this in the loudest and most attention-whoring way imaginable. That's at least this humble gentleman's opinion - AS PROTECTED BY THE RIGHT OF FREE SPEECH! Consider this, Mr. Not-Explicitly-Named Governor!

[Cranberry]

Article
The Observer - June 15 2014 / 15 125 AA

The Era of Good Feeling is over:
What is about to follow?

Noone could expect what would follow, when on an innocent May day, Mr Snowstalker sought a lawsuit against the Midwest Region, citing a percieved unconstitutonality and bad wording as reason. Last thursday, the Supreme Court delievered its judgement - the law was to be repealed in its entirety. The decision was backed by most Atlasians, also by many notable Laborites. But then, the sh**tstorm broke out - the Era of Good Feeling that inherited Mr Duke's presidency, was over.

Mideast Governor Riley Keaton took it on himself to bash the "TNF-Labor Agenda" and Mr DemPGH's bid for the presidency, Laborites from Flo to Butafly followed, in turn attacking SirNick's bid for presidency and the Supreme Court's decision. Concurrently, Senator TNF attacked everything from Federalism to Senator Lumine's foreign policy, while Lumine accused TNF of cold war thinking. All of Atlasia was in clinche - just the presidential candidates kept quiet.

What is to follow could be outlined by the next Presidential Election. A likely scenario might be everyone against Labor. The Labor Party is not the most popular party, especially among members of centrist parties like TPP or the late Progressive Union. Also among Federalists, anti-Labor sentiment is common. The outcome of the following election might very well be - DemPGH backed by Labor, SirNick by the rest.
It might very well be completely different, though. Especially among establishment Federalists, SirnNick's ticket is not backed enthusiastically, mainly because of his libertarian running mate Dallasfan, who has become under crossfire for signing a bill that would allow five year olds to watch porn. DemPGH has recieved endorsements from such notable Federalists as Senator DC, former Midwest Althing PPT Cris and Governor Scott. This doesn't look like everyone aganist Labor, at least for now. However: What comes after the Era of Good Feeling, is yet to be seen.
   

[Cranberry]

Breaking News
The Observer - June 17 2014 / 17 125 AA

A three way race in the Pacific!

Just days ago, incumbent Pacific Senator Tyrion had no challenger for reelection. Yesterday, SoEA Superique, a man of TPP, declared a write-in campaign. And now, the race is again completely changed, with the entry of fellow Laborite and former Council speaker Flo into the race. The race is as competetive as no race in the Pacific for a long time, and it could prove to be thrilling to the end. Screw your predictions - the Pacific Regional Senate Race has fundamentaly changed.

[Cranberry]

Article
The Observer - June 23 2014 / 23 125 AA

DemPGH defeats SirNick!
Competetive and thrilling races also in the Senate!

Atlasia has chosen. In the June 2014 Presidential Election, the Labor ticket of Mr DemPGH of Washington, Governor of the Pacific Region, and Mr Windjammer of Minnesota, Governor of the Midwest Region, has defeated the center-right ticket of Mr SirNick of New York, former Governor of the Northeast Region, and Mr Dallasfan of Massachussets, Governor of the Northeast Region, the latter two being members of The People's Party and the Democratic-Republican Party.

The last numbers available to The Observer show Mr DemPGH being in lead with 69 votes, or 50.7% in the last round, compared to 64 votes or 47.1% for SirNick. 3 votes or 2.2% exhausted before said round.

When looking on single regions, DemPGH appears to have won the Pacific, his home region, the Midwest, his running mate's home region, and surprisingly, yet narrowly, also the Northeast, home region of both SirNick and Governor Dallasfan. The latter ticket scored great margins in the Mideast and the IDS, regions that traditionally vote for the more conservative ticket.

The Senate races saw incumbents reelected in four of five times - Senator Bore survived a challenge from Assembly Speaker Deus in the Northeast, Senator DC al Fine from both Mr Ben and Mr Motley, Senator TNF against Mr RR1997; and Senator North Carolina Yankee appears to have been reelected against Legislator Maxwell, although no network and polling institute was confident enough to call the race.

The Pacific race meanwhile is a complete mess - while it first appeared as if former Councillor Flo and Senator Tyrion were going to a runoff, dispatches have since then arisen that one vote for Mr Flo would be invalid. We will have to wait for the official result from the Departement of Federal Election, for official clarification of the issue.

[Cranberry]

Article and Comment
The Observer - June 29 2014 / 29 125 AA

Supreme Court refuses to hear Gov Riley Keaton
Fritzcare saved!

Recently, Mideast Governor Riley Keaton attempted to sue the Republic of Atlasia, challenging the constitutionality of the Atlasian National Healthcare Act (ANHC), commonly dubbed "Firtzcare". According to Riley Keaton, the act "is not only disastrously economically, medically, and ethically, it is also in clear violation of the Atlasian Constitution.". He goes on to cite numerous sections of the bill as violation to the following section of the Third Constitution of Atlasia: "4.To provide an area of Freedom, Security and Justice without internal frontiers, and a single market where competition is free and undistorted." Additionally, he claims that taxes being laid on health care plans violate the constitution in that the Constitution "prohibits the Senate from levying taxes on "Articles exported from any Region.". The court, represented by Associate Justice Oakvale, refused to hear the case, citing the case Junkie vs Atlasia (2010) in which Chief Justice SamSpade ordered:

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Comment:
And everyone's dearest reactionary governor strikes again! Since he and his right-wing reactionary toadies eventually found out that one can not win elections in Atlasia with such a worldview - see RileyKeatons after all-not presidential bid - they now try to destroy Atlasia's welfare state through judical methods. The first to fall in their master-plan was Fritzcare, our national healthcare plan, always a popular target for reactionaries and conservatives throughout time and space. National healthcare plans destroy, following their logic, the "right to a free market" are "restricting access" and "killing opportunities in poor and rural areas". Of course - Everyone has heard numerous stories of poor farmers that lost the opportunity and access to affordable health care through Fritzcare or comparable legilsations. Oh wait - that would happen if we abolished Fritzcare! Luckily our Supreme Court is not the toadie Riley Keaton expected it to be, and Associate Justice Oakvale dismissed the case without even hearing the parties. The end.

[Cranberry]

Article
The Observer - July 15 2014

Senator TNF files lawsuit against the Vice President!
Litigation over counting of write-in votes in President Pro Tempore Election

President Dukes Era of Good Feelings has concluded, and it appears as if the Era of Lawsuits is to follow. After Snowstalker vs Midwest, Barnes vs Northeast, RileyKeaton vs Atlasia, the yet open Scott vs Northeast, now comes TNF vs Windjammer. Prominent Labor Senator TNF, four term Regional Senator from the Midwest, recenty filed a lawsuit against Vice President, and therefore President of the Senate, Windjammer. The litigation broke out recently over this Senate's controversial President Pro Tempore Election: Senator TNF expressed his candidacy fourteen minutes after the deadline, due to a internet-connection problem at his home. President of the Senate Windjammer therefore accepted only the nomination of previous (and for now current) President Pro Tempore, North Carolina Yankee. When the election commenced, the 5 Labor Senators however voted for Senator TNF as President Pro Tempore, as write-in candidate. Windjammer however did not count those 5 votes, eliminated them, and declared North Carolina Yankee President Pro Tempore. Senator TNF in turn brought the case before the Supreme Court, argumenting that write-in votes have been accepted in every previous PPT-Election he had been party at, therefore creating a predecent under which Windjammer's invalidation of the votes was illegal. The court did not yet comment whether they would hear the case or not.

[Cranberry]

Article
The Observer - July 26 2014

Merger Referendum in Pacific and Midwest
Low Turnout in the Midwest, Interesting results in the Pacific

Numerous politicians throughout the region and the nation have repeatedly expressed their support for a merger between the Pacific and the Midwest, among them President DemPGH, who recently stated his dream for "four healthy, active regions". The discussion eventually came up in the Pacific, after a proposal by Governor Cranberry that would replace the current Pacific Council with an Universal Legislature. The proposal was heavily debated, and eventually not followed due to heavy rejection, yet the discussion again sparked up the ever going discussion over a merger. In the end, Governors Belano from the Midwest and Cranberry from the Pacific decided on a public referendum, simultaneously held in both regions, that would initate official talks if passed by both regions. The Merger Referendum still is in progress, lasting 72 hours until July 27, yet The Observer is able to show first exit polls from both regions:

Midwest:
Turnout (as of July 26): 3 / 28 (10.7%)
Aye: 1 (33.3%)
Nay: 0
Abstain: 2 (66.7%)

Pacific:
Turnout (as of July 26): 13 / 29 (44.8%)
Aye: 5 (38.5%)
Nay: 8 (61.5%)
Abstain: 0

Our exit polls show little interest in the Midwest, and just one additional Nay-vote (Archduke Fitzgerald already stated his opposition to a merger and has not yet cast his ballot) would result in the referendum to fail. On the other hand, the Pacific sees a large turnout, nearing fifty percent, and it seems as if a clear, 60% majority of Pacificians don't want to see their region mergered. The Observer is confident enough to project that the referendum will most likely fail in the Pacific, while we are not ready to make any projection on the referendum's outcome in the Midwest. Nevertheless, with the likely failing of the referendum in the Pacific, a merger may be off the table for a longer time now, and both regions will have to see for other methods to increase activity.  

[Cranberry]

Interview
The Observer - July 28 2014

Interview with Mideast Governor Riley Keaton
The controversial Governor speaks over his plans for the Mideast, the Presidential Election and what his conservative vison looks like

Seldomly in the recent past has one figure in the Atlasian political life been so controversial as Mideast Governor Riley Keaton. A relative newcomer to the game, he has sparked strong feelings and comitment at the wake of this June's Campaign Season, fulminating over the "TNF-Labor Agenda" and "Labor Veep Candidate Windjammer's War on Free Speech". The Observer was able to meet the Governor in his home in Charleston, West Virginia.

The Observer: You are currently Governor of the Mideast. Are you content with your position, and what goals do you want to pursue as Governor?
Riley Keaton: Well, it's been noted that I was on a hiatus for about a month doing volunteer work, my priority at the moment is to restart discussion on my proposed legislation. We're going to get to work doing the work the Mideast elected us to do. We'll reform government, grow the civil society, and make life better for Mideast families.


TO: You have recently introduced two large, conservative bills into the Mideast Assembly, the Governor's Budget and the Big Society Act. Could you give us an outline over these to legislations, and how would you want these programs to work out?
Riley Keaton: These two proposals are designed to be passed together. One does not work out ideally without some version of the other. These pieces of legislation are based on the premise that there is more to conservatism than "cuts, cuts, cuts."

The budget works to shrink government fairly dramatically, enacts sweeping tax reform, and creates new opportunity for our region. It's very effective at reducing spending and directly reducing the size of government. The budget will spur economic growth and allow the private sector to flourish.

The Big Society Act works to fill the void in society left by a shrinking government. The legislation would enact a two-part policy. The entire premise is to give civil society the power to act in our region. The first part expands access to financial capital. We create a mechanism for supporting the growth of charities and create strong incentives and supports for charitable trusts. The legislation favors trusts so much because the money from the trusts is 100% privately governed. The government isn't dictating the agenda of the organization with the power of the purpose.

With expanded financial capital, these organizations will need human capital as well. The Leadership Curriculum is a community service mandate for all high school students. This will allow the civil society to flourish and accomplish their mossion. Let us not forget the incredible benefit that community service brings to our students. We will build a great group of citizens.


TO: You are a person of great controversy in Atlasia, mainly due to your attacks against the "TNF-Labor Agenda" before this June's Presidential Election. Why did you provoce such controversy, and have you reached your goals with this?
Riley Keaton: The June Presidential was a largely boring election. DemPGH ran as generic labor with a "competent manager" pitch. The late Sirnick, Dave rest his soul, just softcocked his way from issue to issue with a chronic fear of taking a stand on virtually anything. The election was bland.

I launched a campaign to attack the Labor Party and their nominee to liven things up. I think virtually everyone can agree it was nice to have a flurry of activity and political engagement in the game. I did it to have some fun and increase interest in the election. It definitely worked in stirring up buzz.

Allow me to clarify, I don't dislike TNF, AG, Windjammer, or DemPGH personally. I actually like, respect, and talk to all of them. My biggest regret of the whole thing is that people took it personally and were angered. I didn't mean for the personal issues to bubble up, but I think it was worth it.



TO: What are your future goals as Governor, what fields do you want to draw your focus on in your remaining tenure?
Riley Keaton: I think we've got some things to look at in terms of healthcare, reducing the cost of living, and improving people's lives. I am looking forward to passing the legislation current on the table. I also empathize with a lot of Mideast folks in wanting to reconsider the issue of life. That's an important issue that I'll definitely look forward to working on.

TO: Are you going to run for reelection in September?
Riley Keaton: I'm keeping my options open. I'm not committing one way or the other at this time.


TO: What are your overall plans for the future, where do you want to see you in half a year, where in one year?
Riley Keaton: I want to get more involved in foreign affairs. I would like to continue my role as a person known as somewhat of a policy buff. I plan on, in the next 6 months, to keep fighting the good fight and working with people to elect good folks to office. I'll keep doing what needs to be done and standing up for conservative principles 6 months from now, a year from now, and beyond.

[Cranberry]

Article
The Observer - August 8 2014

The Observer's Political Recap
What's going on in the Nation's Capital

The Election season for the August At-Large Senate Races has begun, with notable figures such as former President Averroes Nix, Mideast Senator Cassius and Vice President Windjammer, alongside a just to be revealed "mystery moderator", holding a great At-Large Senate debate. The race is wide open as of now, with a great field of candidates running: Laborite Senators Alfred F Jones and Dr Cynic run for reelection, as is Federalist Lumine. The field also contains Northeast Representative Deus, a Democrat-Republican, former President Polnut of The People's Party, Federalists JCL and Clarence, GAworth of the P.E.A.C.E Party and Mechaman running for the Bad Party. This race surely will be an interesting one, and is closely to watch.

Meanwhile, Senatorial and Judical business operates at full blast in the nation's capital. Both sides have presented their cases in TNF vs Windjammer, with both sides arguing about predency, and Windjammer further stating that Write-In's wouldn't be allowed anywhere in the Senate's rules. Former Vice Presidents Dr Cynic and Bacon King and Former President Duke all argued on the petitioner's side. The court has closed the public discussion, and a decision is yet to outstanding, though it is speculated that the court will decide in favour of Senator TNF.

Said Senator also made headlines with a very controversial "Guillotine bill". The bill would employ homeless to build guillotines in front of stock markets and banks, and would punish the use of such guillotines on bankers and stock market employees with a night in prison and no criminal record. Vice President Windjammer has refused to bring this bill onto disccussion, a widly approved act.

[Cranberry]

Interview
The Observer - August 9 2014

Interview with Former President and Senator Polnut
The long-time Atlasian about his At-Large Senate bid, Activity issues in the game and his views on partisan dynamic in Atlasia

One could call him "Former Everything". Polnut is a long-time participant in Atlasia, having held numerous positions including President, Senator, Northeast Governor and Representative. The Observer was able to meet him aside his At-Large Senate Campaign Tour.


The Observer: You have had every position imaginable in your political life. What would you consider your most important position, and on what point of your career have you been the most lucky about where you were?
Polnut: I think most people who have had the honour, would say being President is the most important, and I'd agree. It gives the opportunity to be above day to day party politics and, if you're so inclined, lead the nation, not just a party. But because of that, it can be a truly frustrating position to have. You want to go one way, the Senate, that is usually full of very strong personalities and agendas, want to go any number of ways and that's tough. But you do have the capacity to really dig into issues that matter, for me it was bullying, reducing our overseas military footprint and trying to put more focus on foreign policy.

But as President, I took a lot of initiative, wrote a lot of Bills, did a lot public and private advocacy and did what I could to get things done, I mean, putting a full Federal Budget up seems common sense, but before I did it, it was a rare event.

At the same time, the other roles all had benefits and opportunities and limitations and frustrations. I'd urge people who weren't around then, to look at my time in the Northeast Assembly, particularly as Speaker... how anything got done in that place amazes me, even now.


TO:You are currently running for an At-Large Senate Seat. What are your specific points of distinction to the other candidates in the race?
Polnut: As I've said through the campaign so far, and in the debate, what I bring is not just experience, but an appreciation of what that experience has taught me. Not just from the perspective of subject matter, but also about mechanisms and the many idiosyncrasies of this place.

Many of my fellow candidates are very experienced, but we hear the same things - Government is too small! Government is too big! Very big ideas, which are really important. But my experience and one might say, general nature, compels me to say, my concern is not the size of government, this is not a University politics tutorial arguing about theories of Government. I want to know what history and experience tells us works best. Which is what I want, government that works best - not big, not small - efficient and effective at serving the interests of the people.

I think I bring that much maligned quality, pragmatism.


TO:: Imagine you would have absolute power over the game. What was it you would change, and in what way would it affect the game in your opinion?
Polnut: It's a very interesting question. The only thing I'd want is to get more people involved in the process. But that requires more than just turning up. So sadly, my absolute power might be somewhat wasted.



TO: As a longtime participant in Atlasian politics, do you hold the current time as the one with the least levels of activity? What has caused activity lows in the past, and how could the problems be solved then? Can we apply past recipes now again?
Polnut: The thing I find interesting, if you look back to where we were in my early days. There were some differences, we were less polarised, the centre was where political power rested, that meant elections were more competitive and more fluid. For example, Governors used to determine the district-level Senate seats, based on population. That meant you didn't always have the same one-party fiefdoms that you've had over the past few years.

Things become less active, when things are less competitive. I used to think that the activity issues over the past year were the same as the others. However, recently, I've become more concerned that it is a more fundamental weakening.

The problem is, creating a more fluid and competitive environment is not necessarily going to benefit the existing powers on paper, so it might be a longer struggle to have a discussion about how we do that. There isn't a silver bullet. 

TO: Which of today's often discussed issues do you consider the most pressing, and what would be your preferable way of solving this issue?
Polnut: I see two fundamental issues - citizen engagement and a focus on the wider world. I've already touched on the activity issue, but an extension of that is people who might not feel their vote matters, also might not be interested in what legislatures are doing because they don't feel any buy-in or role in the process. While it is a small step, my proposal is to open the legislative process to people. I'd seek public submissions on proposed legislation and make it a mandatory element. I think those small touches and reforms can help increase engagement.

The wider world is another issue I've been passionate about through my career. I pledged myself to be a foreign policy president, which is something we really hadn't before. Because Atlasia shouldn't exist in a bubble. Under many presidents the Secretary of External Affairs was a lone-wolf and left to their own devices. I changed that, I was intrinsically involved in foreign policy decisions and debates. But it is a difficult issue for many to get engaged in, very often people get excited or angry over something... then it doesn't matter. Having also been Secretary of External Affairs, I have tremendous sympathy for them and how they get traction. I would be a strong voice in the Senate for foreign policy development and above-all, engagement. 


TO: You are currently chair of The People's Party. Would you welcome a bigger, more enriched spectrum of smaller parties, or do you prefer a political system with a few, big parties?
Polnut: Again, something that experience taught me about Atlasia is that even when there are lots of small parties, they slowly move together and end up with two dominant forces, one of the left and one of the right. I was initially opposed to the dissolution of the two big parties, but at least for a time, it was a really strong and active time in Atlasia. I don't think you can avoid that clumping into two dominant forces, it's very attractive for people, organisation, existing voter bases... but as Chair of a small, but active party, we have a harder time. I mean, for me to be successful in this election, I'll need to do more than just receive the votes of my own party, I'll need some cross-over support. It's hard, but you don't feel like you're owned by a machine and you're in the position of saying "here I am, this is me. Here are my ideas and proposals, if you think they'd work...let's work together, regardless of party".

[Cranberry]

Editor's Comment
The Observer - September 25 2014

The Mid-Bigot Assembly's Hate Bill
The Mideast Assembly promoting the superiority of "Traditional Marriage" resulting in a cry of anger from all around the country

Note: The term "Mid-Bigot Assembly" is in now way intended to mock or belittle the Mideast Region and its residents as such, but the outgoing Mideast Assembly in its 37th session; this however excluding the outgoing Assemblyman Franzl of Illinois.


Mr Hifly has accomplished it. He know may boast himself an official "Bigot", the title we generously award him in wake of Mr Hifly's nicely put provocative "Promotion of Marriage in Education Act". What sounds like a nice little billy - yay, teaching and promoting our kiddos marriage doesn't sound that bad, does it? - immediately afterwards turns out to be a deeply reactonary piece of legislation, soaking from bigotry and an episteme considered dangerously liberal in the dark ages. Mr Hifly then considers nothing worth promoting but marriage as the union between one man and one woman, permitted by law and entered into for life (quoted completely alike but for some nice capitalisations here and there). The bill of course forbids promoting any other form of marriages, but that should go without saying considering we are now familiar with Mr "Bigot" Hifly's world view.

Not even twenty-four hours later, Mr "Bigot" Hifly, by trade luckily also Speaker of the Mid-Bigot Assembly, proceeded to open a final vote, justiying the incredibly short debate period, even for a less controversial bill, with "in an Assembly with only 3 members and with predictable voting patterns it's usually not necessary to have long debate, especially as the session comes to a close.". Seems like he was right, as one other Mid-Bigot Assemblyman, former Senator DC, was eager to support Mr "Bigot" Hifly's really vile bill; and just Assemblyman Franzl stood up against it, casting a "Hell No!" (Hell, we like you Franzl!) vote.

The bill is now ont he Governor's desk for consideration, and while voices from all over Atlasia have become loud, from the Governor of the Midwest LeBron Fitzgerald to At-Large Senator Polnut and also Mideast Lieutenant Governor Tmthforu; Governor TJ has remained silent. It should be self-explanatory that we share the opinion of basically everyone in Atlasia, and urge the Governor to veto this horrendous bigotry. For now however, one thing is clear - Mr "Bigot" Hifly has forever brandmarked him in Atlasia. Congratulations!

[Cranberry]

*Former President and Lt. Governor Tmthforu94

Fixed that,; I wanted to type Lt Governor but must have missed it when controlling the text

[Cranberry]

Guest Editorial
The Observer - September 27 2014

Guest Editorial by Former President Marokai Blue

Hating on Ideas vs. Hating on People.
And other matters concerning the importance of respectful communication.

I was discussing potential cabinet appointments with Duke one evening, last year, and the issue of who to make Game Moderator was a prickly one, as it always is. Much as I hate it being one, it's often a political consideration for some people. It defines much of your ability to get policy through. Afterall, who could resist the temptation to pack the job with someone who would write the numbers in their favor? Knowing more than most how much of a pain the ass the job could be, and how it needed a special kind of person to do it, I disregarded those concerns, and sought my first instinct: PiT.

I remember his shocked reaction. As if the idea that someone as left-wing as I would pick a libertarian to effectively be God of Atlasia was so silly that no one in their right mind would do so. A few PMs back and forth later, and he declined, citing RL obligations and a desire to take a break, but claimed he was flattered. "Thank you for the vote of confidence" though, he said. "I've always considered you a pretty logical person."

Throughout my entire Atlasian career I've always been "that guy" in a party. Always a little on the edges of the group, having ties with outsiders not in the party that most inside it weren't fans of. I remember being friends with Ilikeverin, Jas, or RowanBrandon while I was in the JCP. Trying to always be friendly with Xahar and Al. These decisions led to getting a raised eyebrow sometimes from Bgwah and others. But I respected them, knew they could have good points, and always wanted their perspective. I maintained good terms with them, as best I could.

In the RPP, too, I was on the edge. Obviously, not being a part of the mainstream "right-wing" at the time, I occasionally undermined their efforts because I was so friendly with those on the left. Many said I couldn't be trusted to join their private forum, though eventually I was allowed. In a game full of scheming, backstabbing, and occasional sociopathy, everyone's always expecting the worst from people.

I don't remain free from occasional suspicion even since I've been in Labor. People question my affection toward ZuWo, Hagrid, or TJ, and how much I have personally and politically supported them. I don't regret these friendships.

Has anyone ever said they find you "nauseating"? Over something you never did to them, never had a chance to explain, and never heard to your face? One day you just hear whispers about how people seem to consider you the scum of the Earth, and you have no idea why. Then you find out, and it's a horrendous misunderstanding, compounded by a game of telephone, left unresolved because of the refusal to ever engage you face to face to even try understand it.

I've made dumbass posts about Front National, and been frustrated that every conversation about them is surrounded by memes and insults. I, as a random 23 year old American dude, don't have much of a clue what makes them so repugnant, and it's difficult to gain this information when the conversation is so uninformative. By pushing the issue with unfortunate language, I got that information and now get it. But it's not good enough. It makes me a fascist sympathizer.

The idea that I support the far-right is erroneous, to put it mildly, but it's easy to see how these things get spun when the people spinning them don't come to you to ask about it. What I try to do is hate on ideas, not people, and this often leads to unsatisfying answers. But I have not sympathized with far-right ideals. Anyone who knows me personally would know better.

TJ is a good guy. I've worked with him and we get along. I know he doesn't like homosexuality, but I don't hate him for it. I treat him with respect, and throw fire on the position. But in the debate over the bill that would've discriminated against gays of the Mideast Region, I decided to send him a private message that appealed to his better nature, and politely asked him to do the right thing.

He thanked me for that respect. You catch more flies with honey.

Atlasia demands a clean attitudinal break from the current Presidency, it seems. With justification, too. I consider DemPGH a friend as well, and he would certainly admit things have gone less than intended. I can empathize.

The Constitution demands better organization, the statute is in need of consolidating, our society in need of greater equality and opportunity, our game in need of new mechanics after this many years. Many people I respect can agree on such things.

Things, for instance, like equalizing the number of men and women in the workforce. Delivering cheaper power to people in a way that is actually sanely managed. Perhaps, even, an idea I hold very dear: A regionally based Presidential election system. Or re-editing sections of the Constitution to read more clearly, and name new Amendments with more distinctive titles on the Wiki, so they can be clearly presented.

Many people who support these ideas have seemingly irrational issues with those who present them, which is deeply distressing to me. This is how we ended up with Atlasia in such a rut pre-dissolution. People who bitterly opposed each other for no reason except intense dislike for them as human beings, blocking ideas that could make Atlasia a more interesting, varied experience.

I simply do not think that is how you create enduring achievements.

Very soon, these ideas and others will be detailed specifically in Antonio and I's campaign. But what we want more than anything at this very moment is for people to actually communicate with each other openly. We are not party lackeys, and we certainly don't bite. We value direct discussion and evaluate issues on their merits. We are directed by the better argument. We will break bread with you no matter who you are if that respect is mutual.

Even if you don't like a person 51% of the time, you can still side with them on the 49% that you do, and maybe, just maybe, if you engaged with them you could work out the kinks and flip those numbers around. I want to know how I can make our ideas work best.

Atlasia matters a great deal to us. We wouldn't be here if it didn't. We wouldn't have endured the sleepless nights and occasional headaches Atlasia gives us if it didn't mean something. As I've said before: Everyone here is as much of a nerd as everyone else is, don't let anyone tell you otherwise. And that's okay. Just remember that the key to solving a relationship's problems is to talk with them, instead of at them.

[Cranberry]

Interview
The Observer - September 29 2014

Interview with IDS Emperor Maxwell

The Observer: You have been part of Atlasia for quite a time now. Could you sum up your career shortly, and point out which positions you have enjoyed most?
Maxwell: Well, I started as the Governor of the Midwest, then I was elected At-Large Senator. I had a one day Presidential campaign for the Federalist Nomination, and I deregistered from the game. Once I came back, I had a brief tenure as Attorney General, before moving to the IDS and becoming Legislator and then Emperor.

I enjoy being an executive, though it's no secret that I enjoyed being Midwest Governor more than I do being the Emperor of the IDS. I was not a fan of being At-Large Senator, but I think I accomplished a good deal there with amendments in a bill.

TO: You are currently Emperor of the IDS, in a time when this region has become more active again. What would you credit for this positive development?
Maxwell: I think the positive development is that the IDS Legislature has started passing reforms to our constitution. The IDS Constitution is dated, and we needed to make some significant changes. For example, the IDS Judicial Overlord had to be approved by the voters, which delays the process so significantly. Working towards a clearer constitution will be for the betterment of the IDS in terms of activity.

I would say the IDS has a long way to go before we hit our stride again. We still have most of the laws coming from only a couple of sources, and things are slower than I'd like them to be. Hopefully with continued leadership, the improvement of the IDS will continue.

TO: What is your position on the controversial "Mideast Promotion of Marriage in Education Act"?
Maxwell: As Emperor of IDS, I try to stay out of other regions affairs. However, I'll go ahead and comment anyway. I think the "Mideast Promotion of Marriage and Education Act" is a sick propagandist bill meant to put down the marriage of gays. It's separate but equal, and it has no place in such a modern country as Atlasia.

TO: If you had absolute power over Atlasia, what was the one thing you would change?
Maxwell: If I had absolute power over Atlasia, I would repeal the welfare programs we have. I've grown into the idea of the basic income, and I think we should move into completely integrating it. That's basically what I'm doing in the IDS - a negative income that will eliminate the welfare section of our budget.

TO: What are your overall plans for the future?
Maxwell: I could see myself running for Senator of the IDS eventually, but my goal right now is to fix the IDS by growing our economy with tax credits, fixing our dysfunctional constitution, and replacing our welfare system with something more efficient and beneficial.

TO: Who are you going to support this October in the Presidential and the Regional Senate Race?
Maxwell: I am supporting Lumine/Sjoyce. I have a great deal of respect for Marokai/Antonio V, both are friends of mine, but on the policy of it, both would continue to expand our government, keep growing our tax rates, and promote an agenda of nationalization. Lumine/Sjoyce are pragmatic leaders who would allow our struggling Atlasian economy to grow, it's that simple.

As for Regional Senate, I would support Yankee if he runs again, but if he doesn't, I would consider running. I have a feeling due to our numbers, we might have a problem with candidates, so if that becomes the case, I would be the first person to start looking for a candidate, left or right.