---

Exclusive Interview with Senator Vishal Vig
Plácido Nascimento, Fernão News Network | June 23 2017

---

Vishal Vig speaks with Plácido Nascimento in our FNN studio.

---

- (Fortaleza, Fortaleza) Vishal Vig is a national senator who in the past days has been a loser in two presidential elections. We sat down with him in our studio to hear his thoughts on recent events.

"Senator Vig, what's it like losing two presidential elections on just about consecutive days?" Vishal laughs.

"You know, I've learned in politics that when you're running, you have to hope for the best and expect the worst. Obviously people don't run hoping to lose but I'm not heartbroken. I still have a job in the Senate at the very least."

"And how do you feel about the winners of the elections, Vienna Eliot and Indira Tamboli?"

"Hmm, I don't think it's the politically smart answer, but I'm hopeful. President Eliot ran on a grassroots campaign, his cabinet is possibly even more diverse than mine was, and he's promising real change for Fernão. I'm excited to see where this movement goes. And obviously, Indira and I go way back. We worked together from the very beginning to protect the nascent democracy of our nation and I have confidence she will continue to do this as President of the Senate."

"You've lost your elections, you're not in RGA party leadership and you're not in the Cabinet. Do you now consider yourself a political outsider?" Vishal takes a moment to think.

"I don't think a former President of the Republic will ever be able to tap into the 'outsider' cliche. I do have a lot more free time nowadays to focus on jobs like fighting for workers rights in a scrap factory, which is an issue I'd lov-"

"You had a lot of health issues that contributed to the accusation that you 'disappeared' during your term as president. How has your medical situation developed?"

"I'm certainly fairing a lot better than I was. We have some of the best medical staff in the world here in Fernão and I hope we can work to make sure all citizens have access to this excellent standard of care."

"Finally, where do you go from here? What's the plan for Vishal Vig?"

"I am still a national Senator, and I will be working hard in the legislative to make sure the entire government keeps doing it's absolute best for the people of the nation. I will work with my party and others to push forward our ideals, and I hope to continue making Fernão a better place to be. We'll see how it goes from there."

"Senator Vig, thank you for coming down to the studio."

---

Eliot and Haverkamp Win First Round of Presidential Election
Marco Roboto, Fernão News Network | June 20 2017

---

Vienna Eliot speaks at a rally Sunday night.

---

- (Fortaleza, Fernão) The Elections Commission is expected to confirm later today that Governor of Ma'abara Vienna Eliot and Mayor of Fortaleza Nick Haverkamp will proceed to the second round of presidential elections.

Shortly after exit polls came in, Haverkamp was a sure favorite, with the second place tied closely first between Beto Goncalves and Vishal Vig, then between Eliot and the former president. By midnight, though, a couple hours after polls had closed, Vig's former strongholds in Sarkar had gone to Eliot, and Goncalves was down 3 points.

Vienna Eliot was quick, but seemingly shy, to give a speech to supporters. The speech was broadcast on the BBC and is available here.

Haverkamp, despite his early lead, appeared decidedly more careful, waiting until later on to give a speech.

President Goncalves conceded and lent his support to Governor Eliot, and Eliot reciprocated his thanks on Twitter with a collage of photographs of the two, captioned, "Our alliance, our election, our Fernão."

Several Senate races were wrapped up last night as well, with all list seats being decided and some incumbents winning an outright majority in the first round of voting. One challenger, Elsinore Ophelia-Eliot, wife of Governor Vienna Eliot, was elected from the Zionshire constituency with a majority of 58.12%.

The counting of ballots for state elections is still underway. In Ma'abara, Eliot-backed Pao Alto Picaco was eliminated in the first round. State assembly elections were held in every state, while gubernatorial elections were held in Ma'abara and Sarkar, with a mayoral election for the free city of Babri.

FNN is conducting polling for the second round of elections.

---

Vienna Eliot Casts Vote
Marco Roboto, Fernão News Network | June 20 2017

---

Vienna Eliot, looking dazed and tired, casts his vote in the first round of the presidential election.

---

- (Zionshire, Ma'abara) Vienna Eliot, the 33 year-old Governor of Ma'abara, cast his vote today in the first round of the Fernão general election.

The two-term governor is running to be president after what inside sources say was a long period of preparation for the job. Eliot travelled across Fernão several months ago to promote his book, The Work of History, before declaring his candidacy. He spent the last several weeks campaigning in suburban areas of the Ferdinand and Sarkar, where he appealed to lower class voters and made a case for his "New Deal for Fernão," a plan for his first days in office to rebuild the nation. His running mate, Adam Kahn, visited each island of the nation's archipelago on a boat tour of rural New Guernsey.

The Eliot campaign was brought to a halt after the tsunami and subsequent devastation two weeks ago. Vienna Eliot first returned to Ma'abara for an emergency legislative session, then appeared on the ground in southern New Guernsey, where he worked with NGOs to direct recovery operations.

Fellow members of the Popular Alliance, which formed as a merger of the Coalition of Workers and Farmers and the Humanist Union in the wake of the disaster, Vice President Beto Goncalves and former Secretary Julie Shah filed to run as well, reportedly to the frustration of the Eliot team. While the campaign declined comment, "frustration was high ... We hadn't been given any heads up," one senior staffer told us.

"Deborah [Canova, campaign manager] suspects the merger was organized by Goncalves to bolster his candidacy."

The Governor cast his vote this morning in his hometown of Zionshire, Ma'abara. He is expected to have voted for his own presidential ticket, and for his wife, Elsinore Ophelia-Eliot, for Senate. The Eliots were noticeably absent from each others campaigns except on a few occasions. The presidential candidate is also believed to have voted against a ballot initiative regarding solar energy, citing ulterior corporate interests veiled by the initiative, and to have cast an undisclosed ballot for candidates to the constitutional convention convened by President Krishnan.[/quote]

---

BREAKING NEWS: Senator Viel calls for Cloture on Judicial Nominees as Violence Escalates
Nuñes Fox, Fernão News Network | June 23, 2017

---

Senator Alexios Viel (RGA) addresses the Senate during voting on an executive session to confirm President Krishnan's judicial nominees.

---

- (Fortaleza, Fernão) With mounting violence in Fortaleza and across the nation as criminals realise the lack of judges to oversee their cases, Senator Alexios Viel (RGA) made his case before the Senate as they voted on an executive session to confirm judicial nominations made by President Priscilla Krishnan.

Here is a transcript of Senator Viel's statement to the Senate:

"Mr. President, I apologise for my transgression of decorum for speaking during voting procedures."

"However, I'd like to bring awareness to the state of elevated crime in both Fortaleza and beyond, and I plead to the assembled Senators to support adopting the nominations as fast as possible. We will have time to further examine these candidates later — however, now is not the time. People are getting killed in the streets, and delaying this process any further will only prolong the status of crime."

"This may not be the best manner to go about this process in a normal setting; however, this is not a normal setting. Honourable Senators, I ask that you put partisanship behind you and confirm these nominees with an invoking of cloture. Thank you."

In a run-in with reporters later as Viel made his way back from the washroom to the Senate chamber, he said that "although I understand that there is precedent for cloture not being invoked, this is an occasion of extraordinary circumstances. Desperate times call for desperate measures, and I hope that my colleagues from across the aisle will see that my cloture motion passes and we can confirm these nominees as quickly as possible."

When asked whether he was concerned regarding the qualifications of these nominees, Viel stated that "this may be something that I would be deeply worried about in normal circumstances — as we've established, these are not normal circumstances. We will have ample time later to discuss these nominees once the next presidential elections come by — however, I don't think a slightly unqualified judge compares to a wave of lawlessness and anarchy as we are seeing at an alarming rate."

Senator Viel is expected to motion for invoking cloture once voting on the executive session has concluded. It remains to be seen whether he has accrued the support of the Civic Union — however, hopefully the CU will put aside partisanship and unite with the RGA on this issue.

---

---

BREAKING NEWS: CIVIC UNION STAGES SENATORIAL COUP IN ATTEMPT TO OBSTRUCT VOTE
Flanderson Pooper, Fernão News Network | June 18 2017

---

President Pro Tempore of the Senate Amman Singh

---

- (Fortaleza, Fernão) The Senate was thrown into chaos today when the Civic Union lied about vote counts in order to prevent amendments proposed by the RGA from passing.

Civic Union Leader Indira Tamboli proposed an altering to the Senate rules, and during debate, RGA senators David Lyons and David Bloom presented a number of amendments to the bill. These amendments were disliked by the Civic Union. When the time came to vote, recently elected Senate President Michael Ferreira (CTA) abruptly left the chamber and quickly appointed Amman Singh (CU) to preside over the Senate as President Pro Tempore.

But according to a source obtained exclusively by FNN, Singh intentionally "miscounted" the votes in order to keep the RGA amendments from passing. Singh reported that all amendments failed, when in fact only six out of the ten amendments failed. RGA Senator David Lyons brought this to light, the same Senator who investigated the massive Civic Union voter fraud in the first presidential election.

This worrying threat to our democratic republic likely stems from the widespread frustration and disunity in the Civic Union, and is part of a larger pattern of instability and unreliability in the the party. Priscilla Krishnan has recently taken a turn towards the center and has resigned from the Civic Union. There have been multiple reports that the party is becoming increasingly frustrated with Majority Leader Indira Tamboli. The Civic Union's failure to produce a candidate for president meant that they had to turn to the CTA's Michael Ferreira, another sign of disorder in the CU. The future of the party is in jeopardy, especially with the upcoming change to a parliamentary government. Are we witnessing the collapse of a major party? We'll have to wait that one out.

---

BREAKING NEWS:Night of the Long Knives as Krishnan Axes Cabinet
Wake Snapper, Fernão News Network | June 20 2017

---

President Krishnan on an overseas hunting trip over Christmas

---

- (Fortaleza, Fernão) President Priscilla Krishnan has delivered a shocking press statement tonight where she sacked the entirety of her cabinet following an article in the Fortalezan Times where she called for a "bi-partisan consensus" for Constitutional Reform. The President, who has long struggled to have her cabinet confirmed, shocked political observers with the announcement. Sources close to the President have suggested that the vacancies will be filled by partisans of all parties, with top jobs going to members of the Red Green Alliance. More on this story as it develops.

---

BREAKING NEWS: Electoral Commission sets Constitutional Assembly election dates, regulations; Chairman resigns
Marco Roboto, Fernão News Network | June 20 2017

---

The Electoral Commission during public comment.

---

- (Fortaleza, Fernão) The Fernãoan Electoral Commission voted last night to approve the President's request for a Constitutional Assembly.

Chairman Mateus Palmeiro convened the special meeting for the Commission to formally receive the President's message and to set a timeline for the consideration of the matter. By the end of the night, the Commission had approved and set dates and regulations for the election of an Assembly for revising the Constitution.

After seven hours of comments from the public, with a small majority of the nearly 500 speakers in support of the measure, Commissioner Naila Abadi moved to authorize Operations Director Rebekah Sandoval to direct State Commissions to prepare for an election. While Commissioners were at first hesitant, the support of Chief Electoral Commissioner Umukoro Amjad, who serves on the Commission ex-officio, changed the mood of the board.

"While the reservations some members may have, including the Chairman, I can see, I am also inclined to agree with [Amjad] … rather than give State Commissions insufficient time to organize precinct-level operations," said Commissioner Maria Fernando, "and the authorization of operations … is something in which this Commission must be involved."

After the Commission voted 6-2 in favor of telling states to prepare for an election, Amjad moved that the election be set for one month from the date of the meeting. Chairman Palmeiro ruled the motion dilatory but was overturned on appeal by a 5-3 vote. Amjad's motion was amended to one week, to prevent extensive campaigning, and passed by the same 5-3 vote. The Commission then passed regulations for the election 7-0-1, Chairman Palmeiro abstaining.

The Commission voted to require candidates to submit short, two paragraph platforms, and prohibited campaigning or public appearances from any candidates directly. They authorized the Commission's Rules Department to draft rules for the counting of the nationwide single transferable vote to elect seven members.

Chairman Mateus Palmeiro announced he will be resigning effective the date of the election. Candidates have been asked to file in the Senate Lobby, at the Commission's desk.

---

BREAKING NEWS: President will highlight "state of lawless anarchy" in Fernão in reaction to Bell assassination
Wake Snapper, Fernão News Network | June 20 2017

---

The late Senator Ritesh Bell

---

- (Fortaleza, Fernão) Yesterday, Fernão was shook to its core when Senator Ritesh Bell was assassinated by Jimmie Baker just outside the Senate building. Bell was a member of the Red-Green Alliance who had served in the Senate since the return of democracy to Fernão. He was 47 years old. Bell was a gay Muslim, and an outspoken supporter of gay rights, especially in the Muslim community. Baker was a support of the far-right Fernão Phalanx Movement, who often criticized the left on social media. Iyasu Isaias Mengistu, Alexios Viel, and Reza Kassem are believed to have been other potential targets of the gunman. Upon shooting Bell, Baker shouted out "COMMIE-ANARCHIST-RGA SCUM!", threw up a fascist salute, and signaled allegiance to Cristovao Matos, the founder and leader of the FPM. This occurs as the FPM has attempted to sue former Ambassador to the United States Allison Ricardo over accusations of anti-semitism.

FNN can report that President Priscilla Krishnan will address Ritesh Bell's assassination in an op-ed piece in the Fortalezan Times today. Bell, a frequent critic of the President and the Civic Union, will reportedly receive a ceremonial funeral, and flags will fly at half-mast. The President will write that the lack of judicial appointees will allow Jimmie Baker to walk free in 72 hours. It is possible that Krishnan will use that as justification for her expected calling of a state of emergency. A state of emergency would prevent the release of Baker and other criminals.

I, and everyone else at FNN, wish Bell's family and friends the best in these troubling times.

---

BREAKING NEWS: RGA Senator Ritesh Bell Shot by Lone Gunman
Nuñes Fox, Fernão News Network | June 19, 2017

---

Bell speaking to the press just moments before being shot.

---

- (Fortaleza, Fernao) Just moments ago, Senator Ritesh Bell of the Red-Green Alliance was shot while leaving the Senate building.

While walking down the steps of the building, he stopped to speak to reporters about the election of the President of the Senate. While walking to his car, he fell to the ground after being shot.

The gunman used a car in the parking lot as shelter while shooting at Bell. The gunman reportedly shouted, "COMMIE-ANARCHIST-RGA SCUM!" before shooting Bell. He then threw up a fascist salute and yelled, "Hail Matos! Hail victory!" Police then shot the gunman.

This is still a developing story and we will bring you the details as we can. The condition of Bell and the gunman are unknown, as is the identity of the gunman.

UPDATE: Senator Ritesh Bell has been declared dead by medical professionals. The gunman has been identified as 56-year-old Jimmie Baker, who was reportedly a known white nationalist and supporter of the Fernao Phalanx Movement. He often railed against leftists on social media. Other targets of Baker's included Iyasu Isaias Mengistu, Alexios Viel, and Reza Kassem. Police believe Baker targeted Ritesh Bell because he was not as protected as higher-up senators.

The Fernao Phalanx Movement has yet to release a statement on the assassination.

---

BREAKING NEWS: President will reportedly declare a state of emergency and seek to abolish constitution
Wake Snapper, Fernão News Network | June 18 2017

---

President Priscilla Krishnan

---

- (Fortaleza, Fernão) According to information gained exclusively by FNN, President Priscilla Krishnan plans to declare a state of emergency in order to bypass the Senate on her judicial nominations, and will assemble a constituent convention to abolish the constitution. The President will announce her plans in an upcoming address from the Presidential Office. This shocking revelation comes at a time when the President has become increasingly frustrated and fed up, due to the Senate's failure to confirm her all of her nominees to the Cabinet and judiciary.

Although it was previously theorized that the President's upcoming announcement could pertain to her troubles with current Majority Leader Indira Tamboli, who is indeed being challenged as Parliamentary Leader of the Civic Union by Krishnan ally Emmanuel Carvallo, this report indicates that Krishnan plans to take more drastic action in light of the her failure to gain the necessary support for her nominations.

The Constitution of Fernão gives the President the power to declare a state of emergency for up to two weeks, so long as he or she has the consent of her Cabinet. Any further extensions of the state of emergency require the assent of the Senate. President Krishnan recently held an urgent meeting with her Cabinet. It's likely that the President's use of a state of emergency to further her nominees, along with her calling of a constituent convention with the goal of abolishing the constitution, will face stiff opposition from the Red-Green Alliance and allies.

The President will likely announce her plans tomorrow. More on this to come.

---

BREAKING NEWS: Civic Disunion? Fed up President to address nation after urgent Cabinet meeting | The Grapevine
Wake Snapper, Fernão News Network | June 17 2017

---

President Priscilla Krishnan (pictured) will address the nation today

---

- (Fortaleza, Fernão) In a follow up to our original report of disunion in the Civic Union's ranks, FNN can now exclusively report that the President will address the nation from the Presidential Office later today. According to FNN sources close to the President, Priscilla Krishnan is "fed up" and held an urgent cabinet meeting earlier today. The cabinet meeting was also described by the source to be "extraordinary". Every member of the political Cabinet was present at the meeting, including the Secretaries who were nominated, but rejected by the Senate, Undersecretaries, and the Majority Leader.

Though this cannot be confirmed, it is speculated that the Cabinet meeting and presidential address, along with the President's frustrations, could be related to Krishnan's previously reported frustration with Majority Leader Indira Tamboli. Former President of the Senate Emmanuel Carvallo has been listed as the most likely candidate to replace Tamboli if the President decides to take action. Carvallo's fiancé, Patricio Magrina, the failed nominee for Health and Labour, was in attendance of the Cabinet meeting. Another possibility is that the President's frustration, and the subsequent meeting and address, could be linked to the Red-Green Alliance's opposition to the President's agenda. The Senate has recently descended into petty insults, with both sides accusing one another of "obstructionism".

At the moment, all we can do is speculate, but it is clear that President Krishnan plans to do something significant and extraordinary in the coming hours. Will it mark the end of Indira Tamboli's tumultuous tenure? Will it be an executive front against the opposition? Will President Krishnan announce that she has redone the drapes in the Presidential Residence? We cannot be sure. All we know for sure is that we heard it, through the Grapevine.

---

BREAKING NEWS: Senator Bencoster successfully captures a nominally Communist constituency
Christine Delacroix, Fernão News Network | June 16, 2017

---

Senator Bencoster thanking his supporters

---

- (New Guernsey, Fernão) In a non-traditional race where both major parties were absent, the Humanist Union has outperformed expectations and managed to capture a Communist Party seat held by Senator Veas despite earlier polling suggesting Senator Veas was going to easily see off Samuel Bencoster's campaign. In the closely fought race, Bencoster defeated Veas 53.65% to 46.35%. The constituency, formerly called NG-1 is now known as Ponderosa Pines.

It was something that defied history as the Communists had lost control of an area that they were closely aligned with since the 1990s, being the crucible for the Armed Forces of the Fernãoense Socialist Republic (AFFSR) and now the Fernãoense Peoples' Democratic Front (FPDF). The Communist Party had the support of the General Union of Workers as well as the FPDF meaning that they had a lot more manpower than the Humanist Union, which relied solely on donations, volunteers and only endorsements from the Civic Union, Union of Anabaptists and Forward Fernão, parties which weren't popular in the New Guernsey area. The Red-Green Alliance declined to give an endorsement as they "[do] not wish to alienate the leadership of the Humanist Union or the Communist Party."

In the senator's private function, there was large clapping and cheering once the results from each of the polling centres came in. After a long day's worth of campaigning, the entire Humanist Union party cheered and celebrated as the results indicated that Bencoster would narrowly win. After it became certain that he would win, instead of starting off with a speech, Senator Samuel Bencoster personally thanked each and every one of the small Humanist Union team that campaigned for him throughout the entire duration of the campaign. Also present were Senator Julie Shah and Senator Susanne Goes, as well as Secretary Goes and Secretary Ndereba.

In Senator Bencoster's victory speech, he started off by giving commiserations to his opponent, who had "fought a well-run campaign, but unfortunately fell short this time." Then, he moved on to thanking his supporters, including the interns and volunteers who helped run the bare-bones operation that the Humanist Union was running. For such a small party with a relatively small number of senators, it was a massive achievement indeed to even capture a constituency seat. He then talked about his hopes for the future, including a "freer, more inclusive and humanist society" and that, "a new dawn was about to come over New Guernsey." He ended his speech by thanking the voters for having faith in him, and that he will be a tireless worker for his constituents.

Separately, in a short speech just before Senator Bencoster's speech, Senator Julie Shah highlighted the need for the need for more Humanist local representatives throughout New Guernsey, suggesting that she may be considering a run in the future.

---

---

BREAKING NEWS: Senator Viel Re-Elected By Wide Margin
Nuñes Fox, Fernão News Network | June 16, 2017

---

Senator-elect Viel's (RGA) supporters wave flags and cheer as the Department of Elections announces the results.

---

- (Govila, Ferdinand, Fernão) After this grueling campaign between the left and right, a winner has emerged: Alexios Carlinha Viel has been re-elected to the Senate by nearly 18 points over his opponent, Civic Union's Leopoldo Agramonte.

The victory resonated across the Govila stadium where Viel held his victory rally. His supporters cheered, applauded, laughed and cried as the projected results saw Viel cross the 50% threshold mark, and keep climbing another 8.97%. In the speech he made following his victory, Viel said the following:

"Thank you, thank you! My friends, we did it!" The already loud crowd erupted into near deafening cheering, and Viel smiled and waved from his podium, not bothering to quiet them down. After nearly a minute and a half, Viel was able to return to his speech.

"I'd like to thank, first of all, my absolutely amazing staff. These people are some of the funniest, sharpest, most passionate people I've had the pleasure of meeting, and I would've been nothing without them." Viel's staffers smiled from their position adjacent to him, sitting in a casually-oriented semicircle of couches facing outwards towards the audience. "I'd also like to thank my parents, may they rest in peace. As a small boy growing up under Soetoro's regime, they were the ones who instilled in me the drive to continue under such insurmountable odds, and if they were alive today, I hope they would be proud of me." Viel quietly dapped a handkerchief under his eye, before continuing.

"My fellow Fernãoans, our cause lives on. I have delivered on many of my promises, but not all — my healthcare bill is still in the works, though luckily, my friend Senator Brzęczyszczykiewicz was kind enough to lend a hand. I already recognise that this bill will be larger than even the Government Revenue Act, and I want to get it right, so no one is left behind on our path for a stronger, more progressive Fernão."

"My greatest thanks of all go to you, the people of FD-4...oh sorry, I meant, Riviera!" The crowd applauded their constituency's new name, cheering and whistling at being more than a number now. "The people of Riviera were kind enough to choose me over my opponent to represent them in Fortaleza, and I can never fully thank them for that. This is a fight that will continue, a fight that I will continue, a fight that I fight...for you! Thank you so much to everyone, and goodnight Riviera!"

From all of us here at FNN Riviera, we congratulate Senator-elect Viel on his victory tonight, as well as all the other Senator-elects, and look forward to reporting on their activities as they develop.

---

---

BREAKING NEWS: Ricardo doubles down on accusations of anti-semitism against the FPM
Wake Snapper, Fernão News Network | June 16 2017

---

Fmr. Amb. Allison Ricardo (pictured) condemning the Fernão Phalanx Movement

---

- (Fortaleza, Fernão) Allison Ricardo, the former Ambassador the United States, has refused to withdraw her accusations of anti-semitism against the Fernão Phalanx Movement. In a press conference in Fortaleza, she further condemned the extremist party:

“The Fernão Phalanx Movement is a far-right party which adheres to fascism and Falangism. It seeks to model tyrants such as Francisco Franco. Its anti-semitism cannot and will not be tolerated in an open and democratic society, something I'd like to think that Fernão aspires to be. Everyday its Blackshirt paramilitary walks the streets of Fernão our country moves further away from that dream. Only two months ago, on Yom HaShoah, we told ourselves "Never Again". We tell ourselves so every year. Never again. It's a statement that has become even more important in recent years, as anti-semitism has risen once more throughout Europe, America, and, as the FPM has tragically proven, Fernão. I refuse to stay silent as fascism reaches our shores. It essential that Fortaleza elect Chetan Nagarkar this election day, or there may not be another if the FPM triumphs.”

---

BREAKING NEWS:Former National Soccer stars in New Guernsey for benefit game

Wake Snapper, Fernão News Network | June 16 2017

---

Raí (the one in the left) with Ronaldo de Assis Moreira after the match

---

- (New Guernsey, Fernão)

A team made up of former National soccer stars will play a friendly against veterans of the Municipal soccer team on Thursday on New Guernsey to honor the role of the local populace in helping the ones in need.

The match, which kicks off at 18:30 local time at the municipal stadium, will represent the climax of a day of special events for local children and migrants in and around the orphanages aimed at highlighting the great work and solidarity shown by the residents. The event has been organized by a combination of the local police, the local town hall, the Oliveira Foundation and the Union of Fernao soccer players, and is part of a broader program created by the FIFA.

"This event is our way of honoring the people of New Guernsey for their contribution to the ones in need. It also highlights an ongoing, worldwide humanitarian disaster that persists because of war, poverty or climate change," said Raí.

He added: "The main slogan of the event is ''Sport Welcomes'', and we'll be using this as a hashtag (#SportWelcomes) on social media. This is because sport welcomes everyone, irrespective of where they are from. Sport is something which everyone can participate in and it has the power to make the world better; it is non-discriminatory." Raí concluded: "We are delighted to be working with the great champions of 1996 which contributed to this great nation sport's traditions.

---

BREAKING NEWS:Shim Seo-Yeon makes final nationwide tour
Wake Snapper, Fernão News Network | June 16 2017

---

Shim Seo-yeon (pictured) visits Fortaleza

---

- (Sarkar, Fernão)

After spending the first part of the day with local party activists delivering leaflets, and organising last-minute GOTV campaigns Shim Seo-yeon left her current constituency (Maabara At-Large) and re-joined the national campaign trail.

Shim Seo-Yeon started her day off by visiting the city of Fortaleza and helping Chetan Negarkar’s campaign by joining him on a final leaflet distribution and door-knocking campaign. It is also believed that Seo-Yeon pledged support for the local parties election day GOTV campaign, something the party hopes will boost turnout in crucial working class areas that typically support the RGA.

After leaving Fortaleza Seo-Yeon was then spotted in Sakar 2nd, a seat currently being contested by close friend Reza Kassem, and as in previous election cycles, the senior politician was seen delivering leaflets, knocking on doors and helping provide crucial last minute inspirational speeches to local campaign workers.

In a rather surprising turn of events Shim Seo-Yeon was then seen in Sarkar 1st, currently being contested by Aminah Hadi. It was predicted earlier that the Red-Green Alliance would not put a lot of resources into the seat, but it looks like the RGA is working hard across the country and the presence of senior party members definitely served to energise local party volunteers and staffs.

Seo-Yeon committed the rest of her day to delivering leaflets, knocking on doors and giving interviews to every local TV and radio station in the area to promote the candidature of Aminah Hadi. It is hoped that the frantic campaigning from senior members of the RGA and local campaign activists combined with a last-minute GOTV campaign will increase electoral turnout in key parts of the constituency and give Hadi a chance of providing a shock electoral upset.

---

BREAKING NEWS: David Bloom makes final appeal before election
Wake Snapper, Fernão News Network | June 16 2017

---

David Bloom (pictured) speaks at Central Park in Miliband

---

- (Miliband, Fernão) David Bloom made his final appeal to the voters of Sarkar. Bloom spoke after Reza Kassem had concluded his speech at the park. Bloom and Kassem had made a point of campaigning in joint appearances throughout the election period. The two joined forces on a whistle-stop tour across Sarkar, so it only makes sense that they would make their final appeals together. Bloom had this to say:

“I'd like to thank everyone who worked on my campaign over the past few weeks. We have an incredible team, and I absolutely could not have done this without you. Regardless of who the victor is when the polls close, this will have been a victory for Fernão and the democratic process. I am reminded of how recently we lived under a dictatorship. For years, the idea of a democratic election and a peaceful transfer of power in Fernão would have been humorous at best. But, together, we have made it a reality.

“I'd like to encourage anyone who has not voted yet to do so. And when you do so, make sure to cast your vote for Reza Kassem and myself. The same goes to prospective all across the country. I cannot stress how important it is that RGA Senators and Mayors be elected. In times when any democratic opposition to the ruling party is considered "obstructionism" it is more important than ever that we remain strong and united! Thank you all, and make sure to vote!”

---

Viel Rests his Case at Major Rally
Nuñes Fox, Fernão News Network | June 16, 2017

---

Supporters of Senator Viel (RGA) pour into closed-off streets to get to his final rally.

---

- (Govila, Ferdinand, Fernão) The final day of campaigning. Senator Alexios Viel (RGA) is seemingly poised to take the Senate seat of the FD-4 constituency, but it is clear that he is not taking any chances with his opponent, former Naval Officer under the regime of Soetoro and the Civic Union's Leopoldo Agramonte. Nearing midnight before the day polls open, Viel took the stage before scores of his supporters, cheering and waving "Fighting for Us!" posters. As soon as he got on the stage, the crowd erupted with immense clapping and cheering, a broad smile on the Senator's face. He stood before his glass podium for nearly a full minute before the crowd finally died down.

"Thank you, my friends! Thank you, thank you so much!" After a quick burst of cheers, the crowd became silent as Viel began his speech.

"Thank you. My fellow Fernãoans, we have found ourselves today with two choices: myself and my opponent, Leopoldo Agramonte." The crowd booed and jeered loudly, but Viel hushed them down.

"Now now, we mustn't get ahead of ourselves. Mr. Agramonte ran a tough campaign, and we should respect that. However, let's not let his star-studded friends distract us from what he and the Civic Union stand for: a do-nothing Senate, a 'majority' that can't confirm its own president's terrible cabinet nominees and no plans to better our country! We know that this is not what we want, and this is not what Fernão deserves. This country deserves more than a puppet of Soetoro's oppressive regime who claims he was 'never aware' of the regime's horrid human rights violations, actively fought against the restoration of our country to a democratic state, and now, someone who hasn't written a single bill and claims to have 'plans for growth'!"

"My friends, we know that Mr. Agramonte has no plans. While he hangs out with his Hollywood buds, I turn my promises into comprehensive legislation, and make sure that they have enough support in the Senate to actually become reality. When I promised the Government Revenue Act to ensure that the government has the funds it needs to run its operations and to support small businesses and struggling families alike, I delivered! When I promised government transparency so citizens of this country know what their elected and unelected officials are up to, I delivered! I have proven my devotion and determination to our cause, and I will not back down!" The crowd roared their approval.

"There is now less than a day left. Knock on every door, call your friends and family, talk to your coworkers and bosses, share our message so we may continue our cause! The Red-Green Alliance has the plan and the legislation to rebuild our crumbling infrastructure, open up the government to its constituents, help small businesses thrive, protect our environment, put Fernãoans back to work and protect their rights while at it! Vote for me, and I assure you that my party and I will do everything in our power to carry through our plans, and lead Fernão into a progressive, brighter future. Thank you very much, and goodnight!"

Viel's speech came on the heels of a blitzing of his campaign in their GOTV operations, with the supporters at his speech given flyers and handouts to spread his campaign's message. His surrogates have been calling into dozens of radio shows to discuss his numerous policy positions, and a large portion of his campaign's war chest has reportedly been coming from donations less than or equal to $20. With little time left in this election, we'll soon see whether Viel can pull it off.

---

---

BREAKING NEWS: Reza Kassem campaigns door-to-door in Miliband
Wake Snapper, Fernão News Network | June 16 2017

---

Reza Kassem (right) goes door knocking with volunteers in Miliband

---

- (Miliband, Fernão) Reza Kassem's campaign has started a massive GOTV operation. Red-Green Alliance volunteers, along with Kassem himself, have spread out across the city of Miliband, registering voters, and campaigning for Kassem. They aim to register as many people as possible. Top FNN reporter Jones Owen caught up with Kassem as he was canvassing in one of Miliband's poorest neighborhoods. When asked about his campaign's last minute efforts, Kassem had this to say:

“We want to make sure that every vote is counted. It is unacceptable that even in 2017 many people cannot vote because they don't have the means to. The amount of people who don't have a way to get to the polls is ridiculously high. That's why we have the RGA Carpooling Program. When people who'd like to vote don't have a car, or any other means of getting to the polls, we have volunteers who are ready to drive as many prospective voters as possible to the polls on election day. This has been implemented by the RGA in every district across Fernão, but it was spearheaded by our campaign in Sarkar's second. We want turnout to be as high as possible, because every vote counts.”

The Kassem campaign has redoubled its efforts in the days preceding election day. It has been reporter that Kassem has not slept for a week, though this is obviously exaggerated. Whether Kassem and the Red-Green Alliance's efforts will pay off will be seen later today.

---

---

BREAKING NEWS: Reza Kassem makes final appeal to voters
Wake Snapper, Fernão News Network | June 16 2017

---

Reza Kassem (pictured) speaks at Central Park

---

- (Miliband, Fernão) Reza Kassem is making a final appeal to the voters of Sarkar before the polls close today. In a massive speech in Central Park in Miliband, Kassem called for the people of Sarkar to head to the polls:

“The campaign is almost over, but there is still work to be done. In fact, even after the polls close and a winner is declared, there will still be work to be done. It is unacceptable that so many young Fernoans feel as if they will never be able to deal with the increasing costs of a college education. It is unacceptable that poverty still lives in Sarkar, when so many of us are so well off. It is unacceptable that children still die of easily cured diseases just because they do not have access to basic healthcare. It is unacceptable that the top 1% pay less in taxes than their secretaries. It is unacceptable that the far-right attempts to divide us by race and religion, when we should be united. If I win today, these problems will still exist. But I promise to everything in my power to bring prosperity and equality to Fernão.”

---

BREAKING NEWS: Kassem meets with PM Justin Trudeau at policy conference
Wake Snapper, Fernão News Network | June 16 2017

---

Reza Kassem (right) talks foreign policy with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (left)

---

- (Miliband, Fernão) Reza Kassem gained an expected supporter today, when he encountered Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at a public policy conference on foreign policy in Miliband. Kassem is previously acquainted with Prime Minister Trudeau, having encountered him multiple times during his work for the United Nations. When asked if he was endorsing Kassem in his Senate race, the Prime Minister said, "I would certainly vote for him if I lived in Fernão, but that's for the Fernoan people to decide. I'll tell you this, Reza is fully committed to improving the lives of people, and that's always his priority wherever he goes. Sarkar's second district would be lucky to have him." Here's an excerpt from Kassem's discussion at the conference:

“I believe that foreign policy is too often portrayed as a black-and-white issue. It almost never is. There's always shades of grey. Look at any global conflict, and you'll find that both sides often have serious flaws and legitimate concerns. The Israelis and the Palestinians are the most obvious example. There is no doubt that Israel has occupied Palestinian land for far too long. The pre-1967 borders must be respected. Peace will never be achieved while the Israeli government is encouraging further settlement in the West Bank. But it's also true that the route many Palestinians take to fight against the occupation are unacceptable. Violence against civilians is never acceptable, and the Palestinian Authority must more strongly condemn terrorism for their cause.

“The problem is that it's hard for people to see any nuance on this issue. If you support Israel's right to exist as a Jewish democratic state, then you suddenly also have to support everything the Israeli government does. If you support the Palestinians' right to self-determination, then you suddenly must oppose the existence of Israel and support anti-semitism and terrorism. Neither of these lines of view are correct. A two-state solution is the best path for Israel and Palestine, but its prospects are getting weaker by the day, with an American government that is increasingly anti-Palestine, an Israeli government that is increasingly pro-settlement, and a Palestinian populace that is becoming increasingly radicalised.

“However, I don't believe the situation is as bleak as it appears. There is hope. There is always hope. A majority of both Israelis and Palestinians still want a two-state solution. It is their governments that must get serious about peace. Only then will it happen.”

---

---

---

BREAKING NEWS: Red-Green Alliance ramps up campaign in Sarkar, Fortaleza
Wake Snapper, Fernão News Network | June 16 2017

---

Fmr. Amb. Allison Ricardo (pictured) encourages Fortalezan residents to vote for Nagarkar

---

- (Fortaleza, Fernão) The Red-Green Alliance has ramped up its effort in Sarkar's second district and Fortaleza's mayoral race. In both areas, the RGA has sent an additional ten staffers and has transferred $2,500 in funds. The party has also targeted their most talented speakers to those two races. David Bloom, the Alliance's candidate for Governor of Sarkar, has turned his attention towards campaigning in the second district. The Governor's race is not expected to be close, and Bloom is reported to hope that an increased turnout on the east coast of Sarkar will increase Reza Kassem's chances of winning.

In Fortaleza, former Ambassador to the United States Allison Ricardo has endorsed RGA candidate Chetan Nagarkar. Ricardo, who does not belong to any political party, is a life-long resident of the city, and was widely expected to stay neutral in the race after deciding not to run for herself. However, she recently came out in favor of Chetan Nagarkar, and has spoken across the city for him. She had this to say during a recent speech:

“A lot of people have asked me why I decided to endorse Chetan. The answer is simple: he has what it takes to improve this city. Chetan has the vision, the experience, and the guts to turn this city around. Don't get me long, I love Fortaleza; I've lived here my entire life. However, for far too long the poorest members of our city have been left behind. They don't get the benefits, only the hardships, that come with city life. I know that Chetan will not rest until this changes.

“Another reason why I've "come out of retirement", so to speak, to endorse Chetan is that I fear what will happen to our great city if he loses. The treat does not come from the Civic Union, however. It comes from the neo-fascist Fernão Phalanx Movement. If their candidate, Ulisses Seabra, were to have his way we would not be having this election at all. We would be having no elections, for Seabra is an opponent of democracy. Fortaleza must stand together behind Chetan Nagarkar, and strongly reject the anti-semitic and undemocratic message of the FPM. The people of Fortaleza are better than the FPM, now they must prove it at the ballot box.”

Ricardo, when asked if there were any other candidates she wished to show support for, mentioned Raghav Kshatriya and Reza Kassem. Both Senators are known to share her internationalist viewpoint on foreign affairs.

Reza Kassem and Chetan Nagarkar have also received a surge of support and funding from the General Union of Workers, the largest labor union in the nation. Bieito Guerreiro, president of the UGT, has personally campaigned for both candidates, while the union's famous GOTV operation is in full swing in both Sarkar's second and Fortaleza.

---

Viel Talks Foreign Affairs, Trade with the Globe
Nuñes Fox, Fernão News Network | June 16, 2017

---

Senator Viel speaks before the Senate during debate over the Foreign Recognition Act.

---

- (Govila, Ferdinand, Fernão) Senator Alexios Viel (RGA) recently went on a local radio show to discuss an issue that is often overlooked in the Senate — foreign affairs. Viel gained much notoriety from the support and criticism he received after he stood on the floor of the Senate and debated Pro Patria's Senator dos Reis over the Foreign Recognition Act, where the two sparred over the recognition of certain separatist states such as Abkhazia, South Ossetia and the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic. Unfortunately, Viel had to be excused momentarily for undisclosed reasons, though he made his apologies to the Pro Patria Senator known afterwards.

Here's what the RGA Senator had to say about our foreign relations, this statement in regards to the divisive Israel-Palestine issue:

"I would call for a reconvening of the UN General Assembly to revisit their malformed GA Resolution 181, which split up the region into what looks a bit like a rusted dagger. Such a compromise not only made the region split in a way incompatible with either side of the conflict, but the resolution also made no provision for the prevention of territorial aggression from either side, which we are now seeing in increasing frequency with the Israeli government-sanctioned "settlements." These are acts that encroach upon the territorial sovereignty of the Palestinian people, and due to its own laws, the UN has had no ability to prevent this happening."

"This is not to say Palestine is innocent either. Many of their government officials have either sanctioned or openly supported extremist terrorist attacks on Israeli communities and citizens, as well as horrible laws that grant Palestinians and Israeli Arabs who are convicted of attacks in Israel monthly “salaries” commencing with their arrest, along with additional cash grants and priority civil-service job placements upon their release. This is a delicate and highly complicated problem, though one thing remains clear: a two-state solution is the only way to go forward. These are two different peoples living in the same space, and the international community must put aside their ideological differences to stop this bloody conflict."

With regards to trade, Viel was said this:

"Our trade with the world must be kept at a balance between protecting our own businesses and opening up to the multi-trillion dollar international market. Before we begin enacting protectionist measures like stiff tariffs and exit taxes, I advocate making Fernão a place where people want to conduct business. Tax credits to small businesses, lowered corporate taxes for struggling companies and reduced red tape to better facilitate exchanges are all part of my platform to make Fernão a prosperous, working nation. Much of this will already occur with my Government Revenue Act, which will lay the groundwork for expanded reforms and job-creating laws. At the same time, we cannot fall prey to the massive multinational corporations who prey on small nations and sue them in international court whenever they don't get their way — we saw this with Phillip Morris International and Australia, who simply wanted to protect their citizens from the dangers of smoking. Keeping these giant corporations from dictating our every move while at the same time providing an environment conducive to productivity and business is my priority, and I hope the people of Ferdinand would agree."

Comparisons have already begun to be made between Alexios Viel's comprehensive policy platform and bill repertoire to his opponent, Leopoldo Agramonte. Agramonte has not introduced nor written, to FNN's knowledge, a single bill, nor has he co-sponsored any bills. "He hasn't even opened his mouth on the floor!" one female Viel supporter stated during a run-in with reporters. "How can someone claim to have 'plans for growth' when they haven't even written a single bill?" An interesting notion, certainly, and with the Senate already recessed for the midterms, Mr. Agramonte has zero capability to speak in the Senate before the elections, nor has he taken this opportunity to write a bill or even delegate his staff to write them — it now depends on voters about how they feel about that.

---

---

NEWS: Chetan Nagarkar gets fresh endorsement
Alexander Gouda, Fernão News Network | June 15 2017

Chetan Nagarkar pictured outside a local apartment

---

- (Fortaleza, Fernão)

Chetan Nagarkar's campaign received yet another boost today after it was revealed that the General Union of Workers had officially endorsed him in the race to become the next Mayor of Fortaleza. Chetan has been a highly visible and approachable figure on the campaign trail virtually every second of the day, and that track record extended to today as the Mayoral candidate only took a short break after his town hall event before visiting a local apartment complex.

Inside the multi-storey apartment the Mayoral candidate was seen shaking hands and taking photographs with local residents before attending a meeting of the local association, during which he listened to their complaints about the local economy, public services and the deteriorating quality of local housing before reaffirming his earlier commitment to construct affordable and quality housing for purchase and rent in the city.

Afterwards, Chetan gave an impromptu Q&A session that quickly excelled expectations after the invitation blew up on social media, with the original venue quickly changed to accommodate the new arrivals. During the Q&A session, the RGA politician was immediately asked about the poor state of housing in the city, and the trend towards increased rent prices.

"Thomas, I would just like to start off by thanking you for asking me such an important question and of course thank everyone here for attending this rather improvised Q&A session.

I believe that the quality of housing in this city is unacceptable, and it is a national shame that some individuals are trying to profit from the current housing situation by increasing rents. It is why I pledged to construct affordable and quality residential properties for purchase and rent and work together with the local council to reduce homelessness and replace the appalling slums that have been set-up since the fall of the dictatorship."

Chetan then responded to a question on the local economy and how he will tackle unemployment and his views on international investment.

"It is my firm belief that we need to support our small and medium sized businesses to succeed, as they are the real backbones of our local economy. A few days ago I visited a wonderful little bakery that had reopened since the end of the civil war and alongside similar complaints about the housing situation they also noted that local transport infrastructure and the lack of even the most basic of public services seriously hindered their growth prospects for the future.

If elected Mayor I will work together with the local council to improve local transport infrastructure and give our public services the resources they need to succeed to ensure that our businesses and local communities have a safe and reliable environment to operate in, live and thrive."

Moving onto the second question Chetan said.

"I recognise that Fortaleza needs to attract international investment in order for the economy to grow, but unlike other more conservative candidates I don't believe that attraction needs to be built on the back of the Fortalezan taxpayer, something that will happen if Nick Haverkmap gets his way and starts handing over infrastructure projects to his friends in the Chamber of Commerce.

If I am elected Mayor of Fortaleza I will seek to attract these companies by investing in social housing, properly funding our public services and repairing and modernising our local infrastructure in order to establish Fortaleza as a modern, energetic and hard-working city ripe for international investment, and all without the need to copy from Haverkmap's playbook and make closed-door arrangements with the Chamber of Commerce."

After fielding several other questions on subjects ranging from healthcare, education and welfare Chetan finally spoke about his recent endorsement.

"I am incredibly pleased to receive the official backing of the General Union of Workers and I will work hard to honour that endorsement if I am elected Mayor. I think it highlights the long-standing commitment myself and other RGA members have made to improving the condition of working and middle class citiens across the country."

In his final remarks, Chetan Negarkar also spared a few moments to talk about one of his RGA colleagues.

"I would just like to take a few minutes to talk to you about a great friend of mine Reza Kassem. Reza is extremely committed to addressing the issues that Fernao faces. That's what he did as Mayor of Miliband, and I can only hope I'll be lucky enough to have the chance to do so here in Fortaleza. I hope that the people of Sarkar will reelect Reza as their Senator.

I am going to have to leave now in order to attend a local canvassing campaign with local party members, but a local staffer will remain behind to ensure that everyone that wishes to can sign-up to volunteer with the local campaign over the next few days.”

Chetan Nagarkar is still trailing Nick Haverkmap in the polls but staffers are confident that his more populist message and energetic ground game will close the gap and give them a surprise victory.

---

BREAKING NEWS: Kassem calls for single-payer universal healthcare
Wake Snapper, Fernão News Network | June 15 2017

---

Reza Kassem (pictured) speaking about healthcare

---

- (Miliband, Fernão) On the third day of his whistle-stop tour with gubernatorial candidate David Bloom, Reza Kassem has turned to the issue of healthcare. After being asked whether he supported universal healthcare, Kassem had this to say:

“Healthcare is easily one of the most important issues we in the Senate, as legislators, have to handle. And I'm disappointed to say that neither the Vig Administration, nor the Krishnan Administration have addressed this issue, which is a question of life-or-death for far too many. That's why I am a strong supporter of universal healthcare, specifically single-payer. Healthcare is a right, not a privilege. Every Fernoan has the right to the best healthcare.

“One of the best features of single-payer is that it is extremely simple. With other, more convoluted, systems, like Switzerland's and America's, you have to jump through all sorts of hoops to get coverage. It's your average Fernoan's nightmare and every bureaucrat's dream. At the end of the day, systems like Switzerland's and America's are hardly universal at all. Single-payer is simple, effective, and truly universal, and that's why I will fight to ensure that Fernão won't have to wait much longer for it.”

---

BREAKING NEWS: Leave campaign swamps Mococa with rallies, ads | New Guernsey News
Jon Lime, Fernão News Network | June 15 2017

---

Barry Chiroto (pictured) at a rally in favor of Mococan independence

---

- (Grenton, Fernão) Barry Chiroto, Mayor of Mococa, and his Leave campaign have ramped up their efforts in the upcoming Mococan referendum. Chiroto's Mococan Independence Party has been holding rallies, handing out flyers, and making fundraising calls all across the small island of only 2,884 residents. Chiroto follows the policy that when there are so few voters, "every vote really does count". Chiroto, who is personally popular on the island, has made a point of meeting with as many residents as possible, going door-to-door to discuss the important challenges that Mococa faces. Chiroto is famous for his oratory skills and has held multiple rallies throughout the island. In his most recent appearance, Chiroto made the case for Mococan self-determination and independence:

“My fellow Mococans, we stand at a crossroads in history. Will we, the proud citizens of Mococa, throw off our chains and break free from the Fernoan state, or will we be sentenced to another 100 years of servitude? The politicians in Fortaleza think they know what's best for you, what's best for your family, what's best for Mococa! They arrest our citizens for smoking the traditional cannabis! When the disease ravaged our island, did they act? No, they did nothing! They thought that if we were to die, we had better do it, and "decrease the surplus population"! They care not for our history, for our people, for our Mococa!

“But it is not enough for the Fernoans to merely mistreat us, they must also mock us! They come down from Fortaleza to tell us what to vote for. "Vote remain", they proclaim, we must "keep Fernão together". The Fernoan Department of "Justice" has even claimed that this vote has no meaning! That it is illegitimate! By doing so, they call the very people of Mococa illegitimate! But this is not the worst of it, no. They also send their fascists, the very ones who annexed us in the first place, down from out-of-state to intimidate us into compliance! But Mococans do not scare so easy! We reject their racial division; the people of Mococa are united! African and Portuguese! Traditional and Catholic! Jewish and Muslim! In a united voice we cry for independence, for freedom! We Mococans have nothing to lose but our chains! Vote Leave on election day, and send a clear message to the bureaucrats in Fortaleza: the Mococan people are ready to take back control!”

---

---

Sen. Viel Begins Town Hall-style Panels
Nuñes Fox, Fernão News Network | June 15, 2017

---

Senator Viel and his aides sit on a panel before a group of everyday Fernãoans.

---

- (Govila, Ferdinand, Fernão) Senator Alexios Viel's (RGA) campaign recently reported in a statement that due to the success of its recent fundraising efforts, Mr. Viel will be able to attend town hall panels, like the one he did rather recently. Speaking before a diverse crowd at a school, Viel stressed the importance of good-paying jobs being made available to all Fernãoans.

"Every person in this room today should be able to get a good-paying, satisfying job through skill and merit alone. Now, how do you achieve this? My right-wing colleagues may say that we need to slash corporate taxes and eliminate environmental regulations, but we know this helps no one besides the giant corporations who want nothing but to line their pockets at the expense of the many. These companies would love nothing more than to bulldoze a national park to put up a strip mall, and under my watch, I will fight to ensure such a thing can never happen in our country."

"What we need is the following: making serious, bold investments into our crumbling infrastructure, as I have set forth in my Federal Infrastructure Act — promotion of small businesses through tax relief and decreasing domestic trade barriers, as I have set the foundation for in my Government Revenue Act — increasing our involvement in renewable energy to open up entire sectors of the economy, which can be done by the United Nations Environmental Cooperation Act, a bill I strongly support and co-sponsored — and we will support scientific research and innovation in our country by establishing a grant programme for youth and adult researchers who discover new ways to deal with the many issues we face today, from the economy to the environment."

"My opponent doesn't really have a job growth plan outside of what is essentially bringing back coal and putting giant corporations on the government teat, which we already know doesn't work. Not only that, but he has not introduced or even co-sponsored any meaningful legislation to get you a job, as I have."

"Friends, the path is clear: the Civic Union hasn't even tried to put these important bills on their second readings, sticking to just complaining about my party being 'obstructionist' while they themselves claim to be in the 'majority.' They haven't even released a party platform yet! Myself and the Red-Green Alliance are projecting a clear path forward through real legislation and Senatorial debate, rather than just talk. Vote for me, so we can get back to work to building a better country for all of us. Thank you."

Mr. Viel has continued to participate in these panels, with one even hosted inside the barn of a supportive farmer. The farmer reportedly refused payment, only accepting Viel's staff to clean up afterwards and to stay to try the farmer's wife's "famous lemon squares." Viel's secretary did say in a short call-in to a local radio station that the squares were "delicious."

---