2013 August At-Large Senate Debate

[tmthforu94]

I'd like to extend a big "Thank You" to Scott for hosting this debate, my opponents for their participation, and The People for their interest. It is my desire that this debate provides the platform needed for all candidates to fairly make their case to The People on why they deserve a Senate seat.

Like Polnut, I believe I have developed a reputation over the years as a reformer in this game who is always ready to compromise. Serving as Mideast Governor last fall, I worked with a center-left majority, a good friend and opponent, Senator Gass, being one of those members, and with this attitude, we were able to accomplish quite a bit, from game reform to immigration to labor rights. I believe this is the right way to go, and judging by how the Mideast blossomed during that time, I think history seems to agree.

I believe this attitude is especially important with game reform, an issue I have always focused on in this game. We all have our set views on major game reform issues facing Atlasia, whether it be regional reduction or judicial reform. However, we all must play this game according to the rules set by the Senate and regional governments - simply ignoring the minority could lead to multiple exoduses from the game, which is never a good thing.

As a Senator, I will fight for the basic principles of a more limited government, as well as a federal government that encourages activity at the regional level. Throughout my time, I've been a major advocate of promoting regional government, particularly elected legislatures. I think that the Senate has a unique opportunity to get regions involved - it simply hasn't been utilized enough. Regardless of whether I am in the majority or minority position on an issue, I will be a fighter for all, working to find solutions that both sides are content with, even if I have to lose a bit of ground as a result.

Thank you.

[tmthforu94]

Well, I would have to agree with Governor Maxwell that the tax rates, particularly the income tax, are too high. That's why as Governor of the Mideast, I ensured that we had some of the lowest tax rates in the nation to counter the high federal rates.

Realistically speaking, I would also like to concur with Governor Maxwell that expanding the number of brackets would be the best solution, as I doubt we have the numbers to simply reduce the top bracket. I know that in the Mideast Region, a large percentage of our budget goes to education, and other regions are the same. Thus, I would support responsibly shifting power on education to the regions, as I feel that for the most part, this issue should be handled on as small of a level as possible. I would also like to review past spending projects passed by the Senate and try and determine what is needed and what isn't.

Due to the simplicity of our budget, it isn't as easy to pick areas to cut as it is in RL. Overall though, I'm generally supportive of what President Nix has laid out, and if elected, will more than likely vote for it.

[tmthforu94]

Being a student and having a Mom as a teacher, education has always been a key issue for me in Atlasia - as Governor last year, I introduced legislation that created a fair system on teachers pay, and it passed with bi-partisan support. Similarly, I have taken interest in the Student Loan bill, and also stood up against the Education Modernization Act, which would have created a devastating ripple-effect on our entire education system.

I'd currently lean towards the bill introduced by Polnut, with reservations. I think it should be noted that the money delegated to this bill comes directly from the current Education budget, as I think the federal government is already spending more than it should in this area. I don't think each region should be awarded the same amount, rather that it is awarded based on their population, need, and the quality of the plan they propose (similar to "Race to the Top"). I am strongly supportive of the clause providing an incentive to regions to make technological advancements, and would like to see an emphasis on rural areas be included in there.

[tmthforu94]

I have always been an advocate of the regions, especially in regards to elected legislatures. There was a time when many opposed the idea, though I think we've proven in recent years that elected legislatures are far more productive than universal legislatures. However, the problem we often face is a lack of willing candidates. While I think things have gotten better in recent months, and I admire the efforts of Governor Spamage, Governor Maxwell, and others, I believe reducing the number of regions is the better option for long-term stability in Atlasia.

I have already reached out to President Nix on the subject, and have begun discussions with multiple Atlasians on how to best approach this issue. The plan I support would be to reduce the number of regions to three - allow each region to elect two Regional Senators. With larger, more active regions, I would support giving them the power to run their own elections for regional Senate. In addition, we would increase the number of At-Large Senators to six, creating an even number. I believe this plan empowers the regions, and think it would make sense for those in favor of regional rights to support this. Not only does it give regions the power to elect it's Senators, but I believe with three large, active regions, you'll see an increasing amount of influence from the regions over the current setup.

This is certainly a complicated issue, and it's an issue I am very willing to compromise on and find a solution that is acceptable to as many folks as possible. This would create a major shakeup in the game, and I would hate to enact any policy that would cause a percentage of our population to become disinterested. 

[tmthforu94]

Well, I want to once again thank Scott for hosting this debate, those of my opponents who chose to participate, and The People for reading it. Hopefully this debate helped clear up the candidates' positions and made for an easier voting decision this upcoming weekend.

Whether it be as President, Governor, or something else, I've always been an active Atlasian, and first and foremost, I pledge that I will actively serve my term if elected, something we haven't seen enough of recently. I pledge to be an open-minded Senator, one ready to work with whoever to get the job done. I pledge to fight for fiscal responsibility and to create a better relationship between the federal and regional governments.

We have big issues facing Atlasia today, from game reform to our economic state. I have the experience to jump right into the Senate and get to work, and am ready to find ways to make Atlasia more enjoyable for us all. I ask that you please give me a high preference in the upcoming election - together, we can do great things in Atlasia.