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Second Debate Announced! Article 15 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Elections NUEVA ISABELA, SAN COLETTE - Earlier today (GST) the municipal government of Nueva Isabel announced it will hold the second debate of the 2466-67 Solarian federal elections following an agreement by all parties on the location. Maribel Sarmiento, president of the Sovereign Solarian Republic of San Colette and up for election in the 2466 Colettish General election, spoke on behalf of the municipal government and provided the following statement: “The citizens of San Colette are honored to be the hosts of the second prime ministerial debate. It’s hard to believe that not even two years ago, our republic was threatened with invasion by traitors to the Alliance and our citizens were forced to live in fear. This debate represents not only the start of a new era for San Colette, but another step on our national journey to recovery.” The debate is set for 6 February, 2467, and will be broadcast live on the SANN and its partner news services. The SANN strives to provide you, the Solarian voter, with the most up-to-date and in-depth coverage of our elections. Further Reading: Pavlov Holds Rally in Leningrad, Earth Renaud First Politician to Hold Rally on Mars Callisto Continues Football Win Streak with 2-1 Against Mictlan

Candidates in Profile: Toshiyuki Sumida Article 14 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Elections As part of our ongoing series on the 2466 federal election, the SANN is pleased to announce a limited series of articles placing the candidates for PM in profile. Recently our star reporter, Céline Eylenbosch met with SFP candidate Toshiyuki Sumida in his Harmony City home during a rare break from the senator’s busy campaign schedule. The following interview has been edited for length. Céline Eylenbosch: “Senator Sumida, thank you for making this time for me.” Toshiyuki Sumida: “Of course, Céline. I’m happy to meet with the SANN.” CE: “Why don’t we begin by having you tell our dear viewers a bit about yourself? To be more personal, senator.” TS: “Before I entered into politics I was dean of the school of economics at Harmony City Federal University, and I hold a doctorate in the field. My wife, Kimiko, and I still live in the dome, but we’ve spent most of this year and the last sleeping in hotels and rockets. Both of our children are in the Navy, so we joke we’re flying as much as Sanae and Wataru are.” CE: “How long have you led Sol First for?” TS: “Since late 2462, shortly after Frost was overthrown. Our party was in disarray, more resembling the concept of a political movement than the reality of one. Our leadership had failed to deliver on its promises and been undermined by radical elements in the Senate. Only dedication to our ideals — duty, honor, and federalism — ensured we remained coherent, and intact as a party.” CE: “Oh, I imagine there was infighting during this?” TS: “It was plentiful.” CE: “Can you describe it?” TS: “To an extent. I know how Cytherean are with drama, Miss Eylenbosch. Our party ultimately let go of a significant cadre of older members who were not aligned with a post-Frost, post-ATLAS political landscape. That’s all I’m willing to disclose.” CE: “Of course. Since you seem eager to get to business, what are your first goals in office if the Alliance chooses you?” TS: “My first act as Prime Minister will be to strengthen funding and support available to the Reconstruction Mandates. They’ve suffered more than any other regions in our nation during the civil war. Furthermore, I will work to provide incentives to Solarian businesses and corporations to involve themselves in the reconstruction efforts: it’s common knowledge that a rising tide lifts all boats.” CE: “What about your foreign policy?” TS: “We need to, as a nation, avoid potentially dangerous foreign military operations. Both invasions of Tau Ceti are in living memory, and one only needs to look at the destroyed infrastructure and homes of the mandates to see their results. Any solution to the problem of Biesel and the Coalition annexing our territory must be pursued through diplomatic channels, not by force.” Further Reading: Novo Igman Veterans’ Group Protests Slow Response by Government to Injured Freedom Fighters Sen. Renaud Holds Presser with Callistean “Rocket Sledding” Team Sen. Pavlov Congratulates Plutonian Winners of Olympic Medals

Hai Phongers on the Election Article 13 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Elections CUA SONG, NEW HAI PHONG — As part of our ongoing coverage of the 2466-67 elections, the SANN is dedicated to bringing you up-to-date and hard-hitting coverage that gives you, the viewer, a perspective on what the average citizen thinks of the election and candidates. Below are a selection of Hai Phongers and their thoughts on the candidates. “What is there to say after the debate? Everyone here knows that if we elect Strom, we might as well elect the Navy and [Titaneus] Aeson to run the Alliance! I’m voting for Trang because I believe in the Alliance, and because I think it can be something other than a military-run government!” - Tram Phuong Lý, 45, dental surgeon. “I grew up in Zau Gwai Pei, so I’ve seen what corruption on this planet is like with my own eyes. The accusations towards Trang in the first debate are ridiculous. She’s not corrupt, and she’s one of the only people we can trust to fight corruption in the government. Do you think Sumida or Renaud are going to fight for us, here? Absolutely not. We need a fighter, and Trang’s ours,” - Khang Nhu Thân, 36, public defender. “A lot of my colleagues aren’t going to agree with me, but I’m voting for Strom. He was right when he said the Socialists just throw around petty rhetoric without action. If you had taken Hephaestus out of our economy, there wouldn’t be an economy here. You need regulations, laws, of course, but kicking them out entirely? It’s impossible — we’re not Pluto,” — Giang Hông Nguyen, 33, factory shift supervisor. “What do you expect us to do in the election? We’ve been pushed by Hephaestus over and over, year after year, and never given any relief by our government — they own our government! Look at this stupid boilersuit I’m wearing, [note: Ân was wearing a H.I. suit] do you think I have any other company to work for here?! I’m voting Trang to change all this! If not for me, then for my kids!” - Trinh Vân Ân, 29, factory worker. “Vote Trang for a future for the people, vote Strom or Sumida for a future for the Navy, vote Renaud for a future for the Sol System alone, and vote Pavlov to throw your vote away. Callisto’s going to go for Renaud, so we — the Solarians from outside Sol - have got to rally behind Trang or the damn Martians are going to take all of our money. Every damn Credit, when most of the government’s money goes to the Sol System anyways!” - Hoàng Dông Trân, 55, factory foreman. Further Reading: Trang Meets Frosty Reception in Novo Igman Renaud Holds Rally with SFLU Members on Visegrad Solarian Series Baseball Makes Postwar Comeback on San Colette

Solarian Federation of Labour Unions Endorses Renaud for PM! Article 12 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Elections NEW EDINBURGH, CALLISTO - Earlier today (GST) the SFLU officially moved to endorse SPDP candidate Anastasie Renaud (SEN-CALLISTO) for prime minister. With member unions across the Alliance, the SFLU’s endorsement has been taken by some as a sign Strom’s earlier lead has been faltering as more candidates have established themselves. When asked why the Callisto-based SFLU chose to introduce Renaud its president, Vincent O’Dwyer, provided the SANN with the following statement: “This is a great election for organized labor, maybe the best this century, so it was a tough call for us to choose a candidate. Ultimately though, Renaud’s been fighting for the common Solarian the whole time she’s been in office, and isn’t going to give any corporation an easy time. And if we do give them an easy time? Well, look at Tau Ceti.” Madelyn Fitzpatrick, spokesperson for Renaud’s campaign, provided the SANN with the following statement: “The SFLU’s endorsement proves Solarians understand that Renaud, and the SPDP, represent the best course forward for our great nation. With Renaud as prime minister, the Alliance will rebuild itself and bring about a new, better future for our Spur.” Initial analysis of post-debate polls gathered by the SANN’s political reporters show major gains for Renaud across the Alliance. Currently, major parties are said to be in ongoing talks to schedule a second debate. Further Reading: Fraternal Order of Naval Officers Endorses Sumida Strom Launches “Campaign Stop Blitz” Across Jovian System Trang Visits San Colette in Latest Appeal to Northern Reaches

First Prime Ministerial Debate Held Article 11 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Elections The camera opens on a shot of four people in suits — two men and two women — standing behind podiums on a stage. They stand opposite a man and a woman sitting behind a desk with the SANN’s logo on it. Behind them sits the audience, who clap as the camera pans around the candidates and settles on the two behind the desk. “Candidates, thank you for attending the first election debate in our nation since 2460,” the man begins, with a banner at the bottom of the screen identifying him as Doctor Xing Dai, Professor of Interstellar Affairs, Oxford University. “For the audience watching at home, I’ll restate the rules of our debate. You will be asked a question and given three minutes to answer it. After this time every other candidate may, if they are willing, make a rebuttal, which will be given three minutes as well. You can provide a counter-argument to this after it is made. Doctor Zhu will be presenting your questions. Do you have any comments before we begin?” Silence. “Right,” the woman begins, with a banner at the bottom of the screen identifying her as Doctor Meifen Zhu, Professor of Economics, National Sun Yat-sen University. “Governor Strom, our first question is for you. During your tenure as Sol System governor you worked closely with the Navy, and now accusations have been filed against you stating you as prime minister will be a proxy for the Navy to influence the newly formed civilian government? How do you respond?” “Any true Solarian knows those accusations are inventions of Biesel and the megacorporations designed to slander me,” Strom pauses a moment to let the audience clap and cheer. He’s animated today, throwing weight behind his gestures and words. “I have worked with the Navy, yes, but during a National emergency — and my government held them accountable. Without the mass firing campaign launched by AG Fortenot and cooperation with the Navy to get rid of the ATLAS, SRF, and Frost loyalists remaining in their ranks it is not a question of if, but when the next civil war would have started. And the only people who benefit from that are right across the border from us in Mendell City!” “Thank you governor. Now we move to—“ Zhu pauses, looking down at her desk, then up to the candidates. “Senator Trang, you may begin your rebuttal.” “Thank you. Governor Strom has worked to fix the Navy, yes, but he’s left out a major partner: the Socialist Party. Without our support of his efforts, he would have never gotten the job done.” “Governor Strom, do you have any further comments?” “I do, yes. Senator Trang’s party was helpful, yes, but I find her attempt to wedge the Socialist Party into the question ridiculous. We’re not here to discuss the entire history of the emergency government: we’re here to discuss the future.” “Thank you. Senator Renaud, the next question is for you. The SDPD has stated its intention to expand assistance to the Reconstruction Mandates. Is there any plan by your party to address the crisis on Mars?” “As a lifelong resident of the Sol System, and a firm believer in our ability to assist others, it goes without saying that the SPDP means to assist the people of Mars by passing relief funding for both Martians still on the planet and those who have moved abroad as refugees, both inside the Sol System and throughout the Alliance. It is our duty not just as Solarians, but as human beings, to look after one another when we fall on difficult times. The disaster on Mars was caused by Frost, but does not have to be our legacy as a nation.” “Thank you, senator. Senator Sumida, your rebuttal?” “Thank you. First, allow me to state that Sol First agrees with the SPDP: we must assist Mars and Martian refugees. But if we simply provide a lump sum of assistance, we’ll create a group of people with no incentive to help themselves. It’s better to provide in incentives for Solarian companies — non-megacorporation entities based in the Alliance — to hire Martians and help them rebuild their lives while building a stronger Alliance.” “Senator Renaud, do you have a counterpoint?” “I do. While Senator Sunida’s plan is a nice idea in his economics department, in reality many of these refugees may be too young, too old, or too injured to work. If we force these people to work or starve, we would be abandoning them and any hope of rebuilding Mars’ trust in the central government.” “Thank you, senator. Our next question is for Senator Trang. You’ve faced criticism for your connections to Einstein Engines in the past, particularly after the creation of the SCA. Do you have any comments on these allegations?” “I do, yes. The claim that I am connected to Einstein Engines is, frankly, ridiculous. All my life I’ve striven to fight corruption and corporate influence in our politics. I grew up on New Hai Phong, where Hephaestus owns everything from the governor down, and I’ve worked uphill every day of my political career to beat that allegation. Why would I throw it away for Einstein Engines when I’m so close to becoming PM and breaking Hephaestus’ stranglehold over my planet? I call on anyone who thinks I’m corrupt to look at how Governor Strom,” Trang points to Strom, “backed down when Hephaestus showed resistance to the SCA. Why doesn’t SISA audit his accounts for 2463 so we can know the truth?” Another part of the audience cheers for Trang. Strom looks back at her, clearly incensed. “That’s a ridiculous accusation!” Strom shoots back, pointing to Trang. “Not only did I not back down, I brought Hephaestus to the negotiating table while you stood by and idly threw rhetoric at him! If the Socialist Party intends to govern through rhetoric alone, why not hand over the rest of our Alliance to Biesel right now and save us the trouble?!” Strom’s supporters cheer. “Need I remind the candidates the rules of this debate?” Zhu interjects. “Senator Pavlov, you may begin your rebuttal.” “Thank you. It is clear, based on the behavior of these two candidates, that both are too deeply involved in corporate capitalism to be trusted with the highest office in our nation. Any Solarian who wishes for our nation to be strong and free of corporate meddling should vote for the Communist Party. Only we will give our all in the fight against corporate tyranny and authoritarianism, as comrade Lenin did so many centuries ago!” Pavlov gets a cheer form part of the audience as he concludes his speech. “Senator Trang, do you have a response to Senator Pavlov?” “I don’t feel a need to entertain the communists as a serious candidate in this election,” Trang replies. On the other side of the stage Pavlov shakes his head, but doesn’t break his silence — if anything, he looks satisfied to have gotten the CPASSN into such a hot topic. “Thank you. Senator Sumida, our next question is for you. How does the SFP plan to put Solarians first while maintaining its longtime pro-corporate platform?” “We plan to put Solarians first by creating benefits and incentives for corporations registered in the Alliance which do business here, with a focus on the middle class and small businesses. Furthermore, we plan to do this while avoiding massive deficit spending and ruinous foreign wars. The Solarian people have just emerged from three years of war, of Solarian against Solarian. Now is the time to rebuild, not to seek revenge.” “Senator Strom, your rebuttal?” “This attitude of ‘we’ll handle it later’ when it comes to Solarians in danger is disgraceful. It got people killed in the Northern Reaches, on Visegrad, Mictlan, and dozens of other planets. Are we just going to sit idly by and wait for the corporations to crush any Solarians who want freedom? Do you know what they do to people who want to leave Biesel and return to the Alliance?” Strom goes quiet for a moment, looking around the audience. “Let me tell you. They execute them and stuff their brains into machines used to enrich their corporate masters. That’s what we’re standing against. With Frost we’ve already seen what happens when we back down from evil and tell ourselves it’ll pass. And we won’t let that happen again!” Cheering erupts for Strom as he finishes his speech. “Senator Sumida, your response?” “Senator Strom’s accused the socialists of rhetoric, not action, but here we are with him providing rhetoric without any policy ideas. If the Solarian people want more than words, they should vote for Sol First.” “Thank you,” Zhu adjusts her glasses, then flips to the next page of her booklet. “Senator Pavlov, the next question is for you. If you’re elected, can non-megacorporate business expect increased regulations?” “We believe in the use of the state to guide the market. The typical Solarian business owner can only expect our efforts to impact them if they work for, or are owned by, the megacorporations that plague our modern Spur. Our ultimate goal, of course, is the promotion a socialist future, but we cannot pursue this goal so long as corporations dominate our Spur.” “No rebuttals from the candidates, it seems. I believe that covers our questions for this debate, Doctor Dai.” “It does, yes. Candidates, thank you for your time,” Dai smiles politely at the assembled hopefuls. “This concludes the first debate of the 2467 Solarian federal elections.”

Callisteans on the Election Article 10 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Elections NEW EDINBURGH, COMMONWEALTH OF CALLISTO — As part of our ongoing coverage of the 2466-67 elections, the SANN is dedicated to bringing you up-to-date and hard-hitting coverage that gives you, the viewer, a perspective on what the average citizen thinks of the election and candidates. Below are a selection of Callisteans and their thoughts on the candidates. Some responses have been edited for brevity. “Personally? I support Renaud. She’s given us good, honest representation in the Senate and was one of the few voices against Frost before 2461. If anyone deserves to become the next PM, it’s her. Some of the younger officers like Strom, but I’ve seen it before with Frost. Don’t elect people who make promises they can’t keep,” — Guowei “Gary” Yi, 54, Metropolitan Police detective sergeant. “Most of my colleagues are voting for Renaud, but I have more confidence in Strom to handle Biesel’s threat to the Spur. Everyone saw how they invaded the Middle Ring when Frost got assassinated, and you’re telling me NT ‘coincidentally’ has a cartel ready to go when it happens? [Expletive]! They’d make serfs of us all! Them and their bugs! Vote Strom for a secure Alliance and to free our brothers and sisters on Mictlan!” - Wallace MacPherson, 31, stockbroker. “Well like you can’t just like disentangle Sol from the Spurian economy can you? Like it’s like totally crazy how like someone like I don’t know let’s take Trang like she’s like pushing for autarky of a kind okay? But like it won’t work like the commerce is too like integrated. Like you get me you feel me right? […] so like honestly Renaud has to be like my choice,” - Anonymous, corporate economist. “We cannot, as Solarians, leave the poorest among us behind to spend even more money on our military. Just over a year ago that same military was tear gassing people on Callisto! I’m voting for Renaud — Strom and Trang are too connected to the junta for me, and the SFP is the political wing of the Navy. It’s ridiculous,” — Akida Iweala, 46, physician. “We have to be reasonable. Renaud’s been a good senator for the Commonwealth, yes, but does she – and her party, by extension – truly have the experience needed to govern the entire Alliance? I don’t think so, and I’m concerned about the anti-Navy rhetoric by many of her supporters. In my opinion, the best choice for our future is [Toshiyuki] Sumida,” - Naoki Kondo, 48, bureaucrat. “I’m concerned Strom and Trang will grind the import business to a halt. Callisto is the port of the Spur, and we see ships from as far away as Assunzione, the Federation, or Moroz here. If you stop that, you’ll smother the most successful economy in the Sol System. Is that really who we want to elect? Renaud’s from here and she knows Callisto, and what we need,” - Martin Fitzpatrick, 63, shuttleport manager. FURTHER READING: Helios City Prepares for Upcoming Debate Consumer Spending, New Job Creation Both Up in November Unity Station’s 2467 Christmas Tree to be from Visegrad

First Debate to be Held on Silversun! Article 9 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Elections HELIOS CITY, SILVERSUN — Earlier today (GST) the municipal government of Helios City, Silversun, was announced as having won the bid to host the first debate of the 2467 prime minister election. Wally Jeffries, spokesperson for the city, provided the following statement to the SANN: “It’s true blue to have the debate here in our city, mate. This one’s going to be a ripper, reckon! Every candidate’s got a fair go, so we encourage everyone interested to come, see the debate, and give Silversun a burl while they’re at it.” The debate is set for 17 January, and will be broadcast live on the SANN and its partner news services. The SANN strives to provide you, the Solarian voter, with the most up-to-date and in-depth coverage of our elections. Further Reading: “Inhuman Cruelty” - Mictlani Refugee Describes Vaurca Soldiers of Biesel Stricken Vessel Near Jupiter Saved by Callistean Rescue Team Sol’s Sunny World: The SANN’s Guide to Visiting Silversun

And it's on the wiki! Moving this to completed projects.

Lunarians Give Thoughts on Election Article 8 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Elections HARMONY CITY, LUNA — As part of our ongoing coverage of the 2466-67 elections, the SANN is dedicated to bringing you up-to-date and hard-hitting coverage that gives you, the viewer, a perspective on what the average citizen thinks of the election and candidates. Below are a selection of Lunarians and their thoughts on the candidates. “He is an honest man, hewn from the best traditions of the Alliance’s military and civil service. I struggle to imagine why one would not vote for him [Toshiyuki Sumida], if they were of good character,” — Ottilda Isolde Genoveve von Rantzau, 57, Navy officer. “I’m not normally a fan of Venusians — too loud and too brash — but [Hendrik] Strom? He speaks to the concerns we have as working people when Sumida doesn’t. He’s got my vote,” — Omari Achebe, 32, synthetic repair technician. “I have relatives on San Colette. I think [Toshiyuki] Sumida’s the only candidate who knows what the military needs to stay the greatest in the Spur. [Le Hanh] Trang and [Hendrik] Strom didn’t come off as strong during the crisis,” - Guilermo Olgin, 78, cardiovascular surgeon. “I think the Navy’s going to pick whatever candidate they want. My vote’s not going to matter, so I’m voting for [Kliment] Pavlov. Might as well be funny,” — Llew Belin, 19, philosophy student. “The provisional government’s done a good job fighting corporations, but we need someone willing to go all the way — not to back down like Strom did. That’s why I’m voting [Le Hanh] Trang,” — Zavier Fares, 32, factory foreman. “People will disagree with me on this issue, but we cannot fully disentangle our economy from megacorporations so long as other nations, such as Biesel, have limited regulations of them. The best way forward for us is to work with the corporations while controlling them within the Alliance. Only [Toshiyuki] Sumida is up to the challenge,” — Riko Tanji, 48, economics professor. Further Reading: Department of Defense Seeks ‘67 Funding Increase for Modernization Projects Pluto Reports Increased Helium-3 Yields During 2466 Empire of Dominia Claims Gold in Downhill Skiing

The SANN's State of the Race: January 2467 Article 7 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Elections As part of our coverage of the 2466-67 election cycle, the SANN is dedicated to giving you, the Alliance citizen, the best possible overview of our election we can. Our statisticians have worked tirelessly to ensure our model is the most accurate in the Spur. Sol System Mercury: STROM Opposition to Hephaestus has led to a SPP lead on Sol’s hottest world. Venus: STROM The SPP has shot out ahead of other parties in initial polls, particularly with Jintarian groups. Among Cythereans, polling is split. Earth: TOO CLOSE TO CALL Initial polls show a roughly equivalent split between the SSUP, SPP, and SPDP outside of CPASSN-dominated areas. The Alliance's most populated world remains hotly divided between the candidates! Luna: SUMIDA Initial polling shows the SFP performing well across all groups on Luna. Mars: RENAUD While limited data is available, initial polling shows Mars split roughly evenly between the SPP, SSUP, and SPDP, with a slight lead by the SPDP. Callisto: RENAUD Good governance by the SPDP is expected to give the party a win on Callisto, one of the most populated bodies in Sol. Europa: STROM Limited data available from Europa suggests a lead for the SPP among its underwater cities. Ganymede: RENAUD Like Callisto, Ganymede is expected to go for the SDPD due to its reputation for good governance, Titan: RENAUD The SPDP’ reputation for good governing, and a positive track record in Titan’s cities, is expected to carry them to victory. Enceladus: RENAUD The cities of Enceladus are expected to go for the SPDP. Triton: SUMIDA Significant Navy presence on Triton suggests a win for the pro-military SFP. Titania: SUMIDA Naval presence on Neptune’s moons has long made them SFP strongholds. Pluto and Moons: PAVLOV Pluto is anticipated to vote among communist party lines. Eris/Dysnomia: SUMIDA Like Triton, Navy presence in the Sol System’s furthest body suggests a win for the SFP. Core Worlds: Epsilon Eridani: N/A The Eridani Federation traditionally does not report election statistics. New Hai Phong: TRANG Initial polls show a strong pro-Trang lead on New Hai Phong. Silversun: STROM Anti-corporate attitudes have seen the SPP leading among Originals, with the SFP leading among Expatriates. Northern Reaches: San Colette: SUMIDA Currently a toss-up between the SPP, SFP, and SPDP, the SFP’s pro-military attitude has secured them a small lead amongst Colettish veterans’ groups. D’Anzin: RENAUD The phoron industry of D’Anzin, long dependent on foreign imports, has traditionally been a SDPD stronghold, fearing tariffs would have a negative impact on the local economy. Lhokgon: TRANG The SPP trails the SSUP in Lhokgon, but the planet remains closely divided between the two parties. Novo Igman: STROM The SPP’s anti-corporate messaging has secured it a lead on war-torn Novo Igman, which fears corporate dominance of its reconstruction. New Peoria: TRANG Polls show the SSUP leading on New Peoria, which needs significant reconstruction. Lycoris: N/A The state of emergency on Lycoris has prevented polling by the SANN. Southern Reaches: Sankt Frederick: TRANG The SSUP and SPP currently are nearly tied, with both attempting to win over the agrarian vote. Initial polling shows a slight SSUP lead. Visegrad: SUMIDA Initial polling indicates a weak SFP lead, with the SPP trailing slightly. Expatriate Populations Mictlan: STROM SPP messaging about reunification has resonated strongly with Mictlan who fled their planet’s occupation. Port Antilla: STROM As with Mictlan, the SPP’s message of reunification has resonated strongly. Konyang: SUMIDA Early polling has placed the SFP ahead in the expatriate Konyang population. Further Reading: Konyang Police Charge Three Tourists with Attempted Poaching of National Bird Solarian Alliance, Galatean Federation Scientists Biggest Winners at 2466 Nobel Prizes Hit Venusian Band Just Us Begins Winter Tour

SANN Exclusive: Your Guide to Voting Abroad Article 6 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Elections UNITY STATION, EARTH - Earlier the SANN reached out to the government for information about how Solarian citizens can vote if they are either abroad or on a planet other than the one they are registered to vote on. For more information we have reached out to Doctor Mei Jiang, State Department foreign service officer assigned to the Solarian embassy in Xanu, and Doctor Guoliang Li, program supervisor at the Department of the Interior. Attached are official portraits of Jiang and Li, both typical-looking Solarian bureaucrats clad in dark suits and standing in front of Solarian flags. SANN: For Solarians abroad, how do they know they’re eligible to vote? JIANG: Solarian citizens above voting age who reside abroad are eligible to vote for federal positions, such as prime minister or senators, but local elections are determined on a precinct-by-precinct basis. When in doubt, contact the local board of elections where you were registered — your local embassy or consulate can help you send a letter to them if you’re confused. SANN: What about Solarian crewmembers of interstellar vessels? JIANG: For foreign-registered vessels you’ll need to contact the embassy, or consulate, of the area where the vessel is registered. They’ll be able to assist. LI: For Solarian-registered vessels, such as military ships, contact your registered voting precinct and let them know what ship you are on. SANN: How do you request an absentee ballot abroad? JIANG: That’s through the Solarian Voting Abroad Initiative, or SVAI, which is run by the Department of the Interior. You can request one online, and contact your local embassy or consulate’s voting assistance officer if you need help. LI: Domestically, you’ll have to contact the voting precinct you’re registered in and submit an absentee ballot request. For most precincts, this can be done online. For Martian voters abroad, you’ll need to contact the Department of the Interior to determine what precinct you are registered in if your prior address was in the exclusion zone. SANN: How do you receive an absentee ballot? LI: In the Alliance you’ll receive it by mail, either electronically or physically depending on how you request it. Abroad, either by mail — if the area has a reliable postal service, such as most of the Coalition — or via pickup at a consulate or embassy if the government either lacks an effective postal service — such as Vysoka — or is likely to interfere with the process — such as Biesel. SANN: What about returning the ballot? JIANG: The Department of State recommends absentee ballots submitted abroad be returned to the nearest embassy or consulate directly, so they can be transported via diplomatic courier. LI: Domestically, you can send it back via conventional mail or certified electronic mail. SANN: Thank you both for your time. Do you have resources for Solarian voters to contact? JIANG: The best resource to contact is your local embassy or consulate. The Department of State’s website has helpful links and contact information for them. LI: Citizens with questions can reach out to 2467elect@doi.gov for further information, or check our website. Further Reading: Suwon Sea Bandits Score 4-3 Win Over Ton Gwai Triads in Third Game of Alliance Series “Promise of Jintaria” - University Classmates Reflect on Strom Navy Officer, 14 Students Injured in “Rocket Sledding” Incident on Callisto

Election Date Announced! Article 5 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Elections NEW YORK CITY, EARTH — Earlier today (GST) the provisional government announced an official date for the Solarian 2467 general federal election. Elections are, assuming no delays, to take place on 27 February, with all votes for prime minister expected to be counted by either 28 February or 1 March (Earth Standard Time). Senatorial elections may take longer. Most senatorial seats are up for election due to delays experienced during the civil war. Absentee voting is to be determined on a planet-by-planet basis. A government spokesperson contacted by the SANN advised voters to contact the Department of the Interior, if in the Alliance, or Department of State, if abroad, for more information. Further Reading: SFP Holds Rally on San Colette Phoron Cleanup on D’Anzin Expected to Take Five Years People of the Spur: The Assunzionii

Socialists Announce PM Candidate for ‘67 Election! Article 2 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Elections The camera, after the SANN jingle, zooms in on the serious-looking face of Harold MacMillan. “Welcome back to The State of Sol. Today we take you to Cua Song, New Hai Phong, where the Socialist Party is set to shortly announce their candidate for PM. We go now to our reporter on the ground, Le Quynh Cong. Quynh?” The camera switches to a typical Hai Phongese woman standing in an auditorium with Solarian flags hanging from the ceiling. Quynh is bespectacled with short hair, and is wearing a rebreather around her neck that’s been pulled down to show her face — a common sight on the pollution and dust-covered Solarian world. She nods her head to the camera. “Hi Harold! The atmosphere’s electric here in Cua Song, everyone’s excited to see the Socialist Party’s candidate for PM.” “Any predictions?” “Most people think it’ll be Senator Trang! The governors are too, ah, controversial,” Quynh wiggles her eyebrows a bit, trying to imply something, “I heard a bit about them, but nothing suitable for broadcast.” “That fits what I know,” MacMillan laughs for a moment. “Any other potential candidates?” Quynh shakes her head. “Nobody aside from Trang’s been able to get influence over the Socialists, so she’s pretty much the only one.” “Citizens of the Alliance,” a female voice broadcasts over the PA. Quynh gives a signal to the camera, which switches to a view of the stage. “The Socialist Party’s candidate and your next Prime Minister: Le Hanh Trang!” Cheers erupt from the audience as a middle-aged Hai Phongese woman in a black suit walks from the side of the stage to a podium, waving as she approaches it. A chant of “LE HANH TRANG!” comes up from the audience as she approaches. The Senator clasps her hands together and shakes them above her head, motioning for quiet as she mounts the podium and begins to speak. “My fellow Solarians,” Trang begins. “We stand now on the brink of our Alliance’s triumph over corporate greed and domination! Trang stops a moment to allow the cheering to subside. “The Socialist Party has given you, the citizens of the Alliance, a victory over NanoTrasen, over Zavodskoi, over Zeng-Hu,” Trang pauses for dramatic effect. “But!” Trang raises a finger and points it out into the audience. “Our duty is not yet done! Billions of Solarians just like you and me are forced to work under the thumb of Hephaestus Industries and their toady subsidiaries, who take our money and send it to their alien fiefdom while replacing our workers with their synthetics! And to this I say,” Trang pauses, looking around for a moment, then crosses her arms into an X! “No more! More cheering erupts. “If I am elected as your next PM, I will take the fight to Hephaestus!” Trang slams her fist into the podium! “I will fight for the Solarian worker!” Trang slams her fist into the podium again! The crowd has begun chanting her name. “And I will stop aliens and synthetics from taking over our jobs and our country! Thank you!” Trang throws both hands up into Vs for victory. The crowd goes wild, chanting her name and yelling. The senator looks beyond pleased at this reception, standing there and basking in it as the feed switches to a commercial break.

Populists Name Candidate for ‘67 PM Election! Article 1 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Elections After the typical SANN jingle the camera zooms in on the familiar face of Harold MacMillan behind his desk. He maintains eye contact -- the anchor can certainly maintain a steely gaze -- with the camera as it zooms in, then begins speaking. “Good evening, and welcome back to The State of Sol. I’m your host, Harold MacMillan. Urgent news has just arrived from Venus, where the Populist Party will shortly announce their candidate. We go now to the Susuhe District and our reporter on-scene, Eberechi Oteh. Eberechi?” The screen splits, with a darker-skinned man in an assembly hall now standing on the right. The idle noise of the crowd can be heard in the background, but it’s hard to make out any words. A Solarian flag banner can vaguely be seen over Oteh’s right shoulder. “Hello Harold!” Oteh has a notable Callistean accent. “I’m happy to hear from you.” “It’s mutual. How’s the atmosphere on Venus?” “The people here are excited, Harold! We’re only a few minutes from the announcement, and the candidate’s acceptance speech.” “Any predictions on who it could be?” “Most people here think it’ll be Governor Strom. There’s been some rumors about Governor Szalai being the nominee after the events on Visegrad, but nothing to confirm it. Hang on,” Oteh puts his finger to his earpiece for a second, then looks at the camera. “The announcement is happening in just a moment, Harold.” “Right, thank you for covering this.” “Of course,” both MacMillan and Oteh disappear as the camera switches to a view of the stage. A podium dominates the center, with the backdrop being a massive Solarian flag hologram that flutters in the “wind.” Posts marked with planets of the Alliance — Callisto, Silversun, Visegrad, and more — can be seen in the audience, signifying delegations. The atmosphere is festive, but the audience quiets as the lights dim and the PA begins to broadcast. “People of the Alliance,” a male voice broadcasts from it, “please welcome your next Prime Minister: HENRIK STROM!!!” A man in a muted gray business suit walks out from the hologram, waving to the crowd as it erupts into cheers. The Alliance’s anthem plays over the loudspeakers as he approaches the podium, moving with purpose. As he nears it, Hendrik Strom throws his left fist up into the air to wild cheering from the crowd! As he climbs onto the podium he gives one last wave and the cheering fades with his gesture for the crowd to quiet. The Jintarian politician takes a moment to survey the crowd, savoring the moment, and begins speaking. “My fellow Solarians,” Strom leans into the podium, now looking serious. “The last six years have been some of the hardest faced by our nation since the Interstellar War. Enemies foreign and domestic seized on our temporary weakness: corporations stole our planets, traitors in the military tried to bring down our government, but did they?” “NO!” yells the crowd. “They didn't! Because our Alliance is the greatest nation in the Spur — and under my leadership tt will continue to be great! Strom pauses for a moment to let the cheering die down. “We will take back our economy from the corporate elite and give it back to the common Solarian! We will secure our borders! And for those Solarians living under occupation, we will come to rescue you! The crowd cheers again. Some begin chanting Strom’s name, which others quickly pick up and spread throughout the audience. “Always remember, Strom pauses for effect, letting the crowd's cheer dominant the theater for a few moments, "that a vote for the Populists is a vote for the future of our Alliance! Thank you, and long live the Alliance of Sovereign Solarian Nations!” Strom raises his right arm with a V for victory symbol as the crowd cheers again! He then begins to work his way off the stage, waving at the crowd, as Hold Us Tight by Just Us, a Jintarian band, plays. The crowd goes wild, cheering and chanting his name as the SANN’s feed cuts out and fades into a commercial break.

First, please accept our apologies for the delay in getting to this. Second, I’m pleased to announce that it has been accepted! Pending editing we’ll hopefully see it on the wiki very soon.