CampinKiller Posted December 13, 2024 Posted December 13, 2024 Sol First Party Announces Candidate for ‘67 PM Elections! Article 3 of the Winner Take All arc The camera, following the typical SANN jingle, zooms in on the always stern Harold MacMillan. “Welcome back to The State of Sol. This evening we will be visiting Harmony City, Luna, where the Sol First Party is expected to announce its candidate in short order. We go now to the AESCO-L Museum of Aeronautics and Astronautics, where our reporter, Céline Eylenbosch, is waiting. Céline?” The screen splits, with one half containing MacMillan, and the other, a blonde and quite obviously Cytherean, woman. “Hello, dear viewers! We’re here in the lovely Aldrin Auditorium, where the Sol First Party is going to be announcing their candidate after quite the process. Everyone’s ready to see their candidate for the first time.” “Any predictions?” “The frontrunner seems to be Senator Toshiyuki Sumida, who’s from this district of Harmony City. There are a few darkhorse candidates, but they aren’t likely to surprise us tonight. Oh! It’s time for the announcement.” “Fellow Solarians,” a voice booms over a speaker, prompting a camera switch to one showing the stage, “Please welcome the next Prime Minister of the Solarian Alliance, Toshiyuki Sumida!” Confetti fires from cannons as a middle-aged Lunan man enters the stage, smiling and waving at the assembled crowd. The crowd erupts into cheers, which Sumida amplifies by waving his arms upwards in a pump-up motion as he reaches the podium. After taking in the crowd, he waves for quiet, which the crowd eventually gives him. “My fellow Solarians,” Sumida begins, “The last several years have tried our Alliance, but we have come out of the darkness strong! We must seize this opportunity to put the priority on us first!” Sumida pauses as the cheers grow again, waiting a few moments for them to die down. “The Sol First Party will put our needs as a nation, and your needs from the government, first. We must focus on restoring the planets in the Reconstruction Mandates, and rebuilding ourselves! We must defend our borders and every citizen, whilst avoiding foreign entanglements that seek to drag us down!” More cheering erupts from the crowd. “If I’m elected Prime Minister, we will bring in a new era of the Alliance that puts our nation before everything else!” “I will protect us from foreign corporate interests, and put our own first! Together, we will lead the Alliance back to glory! Thank you all!” Sumida throws his hands up and the crowd goes wild, while he continues to stand at the podium and enjoy the reception, before the commercial break interrupts the scene.
CampinKiller Posted December 16, 2024 Posted December 16, 2024 Solarian Popular Democratic Party and Communist Party Announce PM Candidates Article 4 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Elections UNITY STATION, EARTH – This afternoon (GST), the remaining two parties announced their candidates for Prime Minister in the upcoming election. Both the Solarian Popular Democratic Party and the Communist Party of the Alliance of Sovereign Solarian Nations announced their respective candidates at their conventions, though both are seen as having little chance of winning. The Solarian Popular Democratic Party announced Callistean Senator Anastaise Renaud as their nominee for Prime Minister. Senator Renaud, a popular senator from Callisto, gained many supporters within her own party for her response to the local Naval garrison’s violent dispersal of a protest calling for intervention in the Northern Wildlands. Among Renaud’s many promises during her acceptance speech were to fight for the workers of the Alliance against corporate influence, expand assistance to the Reconstruction Mandates, and re-establish the Alliance diplomatically with the Spur. The Communist Party announced its candidate as Kliment Pavlov, an influential planetary politician from Pluto. Among the party’s many goals are the expansion of social programs, nationalization of many corporate assets, and significant reform of the central government. Further Reading: San Colette national ice hockey team stuns Pluto in Olympic knockout stages Today in History: The Boston Tea Party ‘Boat Chicken’ Incident Injures 7 in Helios City
NewOriginalSchwann Posted December 19, 2024 Posted December 19, 2024 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 2
NewOriginalSchwann Posted December 27, 2024 Posted December 27, 2024 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
NewOriginalSchwann Posted January 2 Posted January 2 (edited) 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 Edited January 2 by NewOriginalSchwann 2
NewOriginalSchwann Posted January 8 Posted January 8 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 1
NewOriginalSchwann Posted January 11 Posted January 11 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 1
NewOriginalSchwann Posted January 15 Posted January 15 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 1
NewOriginalSchwann Posted January 17 Posted January 17 (edited) 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.” Edited January 17 by NewOriginalSchwann 2
NewOriginalSchwann Posted January 18 Posted January 18 (edited) 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 Edited January 22 by NewOriginalSchwann
NewOriginalSchwann Posted January 22 Posted January 22 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
NewOriginalSchwann Posted January 24 Posted January 24 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 1
NewOriginalSchwann Posted January 29 Posted January 29 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 2
NewOriginalSchwann Posted February 1 Posted February 1 Candidates in Profile: Anastasie Renaud Article 16 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Election 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 SPDP candidate Anastasie Renaud in her Ha Wan District apartment during a rare break from the senator’s busy campaign schedule. The following interview has been edited for length. Céline Eylenbosch: “Thank you for agreeing to meet with me and speak to our dear viewers, senator.” Anastasie Renaud: “Of course! In the social democrats, we believe in staying connected to the people — we work for them!” CE: “Let’s start by telling the viewers a bit about you, senator? Who are you as a person?” AR: “Well, I was a personal injury lawyer before I was elected to the district council in the 50s, then to the Senate in 2460 — they kicked me out once Frost took power, but I came back in ‘62. Since then I’ve been working for the interests of the common Solarian. I’ve been married to my job since I passed the bar [laughs]! I do have two tuxedo cats, Kiki and Florian. You might have seen them in our campaign ads — they’re very well behaved!” CE: “I see. Have you been leading the social democrats for long?” AR: “Since 2462, when I was elected by our party to an eight-year term. It’s been a great opportunity and honour to work as the head of one of the Alliance’s oldest continuous parties.” CE: “If you’re elected to prime minister, what will your first goals be?” AR: “In a perfect world where we have an absolute majority, my first goals are to increase aid to the areas hit hardest by the civil war: Mars and the mandates. I’d also work to place more guards against corporate influence in Solarian politics and our economy. We had to fight for years to get regulations like the SCA passed, and we can’t let it disappear.” CE: “And your foreign policy?” AR: “No more foreign wars or interventions, unless it’s in defense of current Solarian territory. The two ‘invasions’ of Biesel were catastrophic for our nation, and we need to be concerned with provoking a Second Interstellar War with Biesel or the Coalition if we act too aggressively.” CE: “Oh, you think there could be another war?” AR: “I do, yes. Today’s environment is far less stable than it was twenty, even ten, years ago. We seem to forget Biesel weaponized phoron during the second invasion too.” CE: “What would you do for Solarians living under Biesel’s occupation then, my dear senator?” AR: “The only way forward is through diplomacy. We cannot afford another Interstellar War.” Further Reading: Sec. Courtois to Seek Defense Budget Increase in 2468 Fiscal Year Sen. Strom Holds Rally on Triton Callisto 3, Port Antilla 0: Sol’s Unstoppable Footballers?
NewOriginalSchwann Posted February 5 Posted February 5 San Colette’s Thoughts on the Election Article 17 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Election NUEVA ISABELA, SOV. SOLARIAN REP. OF SAN COLETTE — 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 Coletters and their thoughts on the candidates. “Good Solarians died because politicians decided to stand around and debate the merits of intervention. There should be no debate about the merits of intervening to save our fellow Solarians from enemies foreign or domestic. That’s why I’m voting for Strom,” - Benito Davila Ramirez, 46, TyVS engineer. “The only way to stop further unrest and theft of our territory is through the creation and maintenance of a strong military with a competitive edge. The Navy is the Alliance’s shield and its sword, and only Sumida understands what it needs,” - Mercedes Tolentino Carreras, 31, Civil Guard (Colettish) officer. “We’ve just come out of the most devastating conflict in centuries and need to rebuild. Is now really the time to shake our fists at Biesel and the Coalition? I understand the sentiment that’s sent many Solarians to Strom, but I worry he’ll lead us to war. We’ve already experienced enough war in our lifetime. That’s why I support Renaud,” - Ester Aguiló Serrat, 28, PhoroCol economist. “I support Sumida, but I’ll take anyone other than Trang. She’s a snake who takes money from Einstein Engines while ignoring the suffering of us while we were fighting the civil war. It’s no shock Strom abandoned her the first chance he got,” - Isandro Florin Licona, 58, CAISC foreman. “My friends abroad — I travel often for business — say voting for anyone but Strom is voting for Renaud, but I don’t agree. Sol First has a long tradition of upholding what makes our Alliance so great as a nation, and I believe Sumida will carry on that tradition. A strong Navy means a strong Alliance,” - Silvio Verano Caraveo, 47, TyVS engineering consultant. Further Reading: Sen. Sumida, Sen. Renaud Hold Rallies in San Colette Sen. Strom Pushes for More Relief for Novo Igman Veterans: “Utterly Heartbreaking Abandonment” Callisto 4-2 Against Novi Jadran as Streak Continues
NewOriginalSchwann Posted February 7 Posted February 7 (edited) Second Prime Ministerial Debate Held! Article 18 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Election The camera, for a second time, opens on a shot of five people in suits — three 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 this second debate,” Doctor Xing Dai begins. “For the audience watching at home, and due to some interruptions in the last debate, I’ll restate the rules of our debate. You will be asked a question and are 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?” Once again, silence. “Right,” Meifan Zhu begins, looking down at her papers. “Senator Sumida, our first question is for you. Sol First has historically always been very close to the Solarian military. Do you believe you’ll be able to balance this relationship with your opposition to foreign military involvement?” “Thank you,” Sumida looks ever the part of the Lunarian political elite: he is well-composed and well-dressed, presenting a stark contrast to Strom’s iconic grey suit, who stands at the podium to his right. “A well-funded and respected military does not mean we must involve ourselves in aggressive foreign affairs. The Alliance is a powerful nation which holds a great deal of sway in the interstellar community even without the use of military force. Yet, at the same time, our enemies should not mistake this for passiveness: a well-funded military force ensures the safety of our Alliance more than any other factor.” Sumida, having finished his speech, received cheers and applause! It seems San Colette is giving the conservative a warmer welcome than Silversun did. “Thank you. Senator Strom, your response?” “Senator Sumida is correct that we are a powerful nation. But,” Strom pauses for effect, looking at the audience, “our Alliance was not saved from destruction in the civil war by interstellar sway! It was solved by the blood, by the sacrifices, and by the bravery of our armed forces fighting for our homeland!” Part of the audience cheers for Strom, who returns their adoration with a raised fist and expression of resolve on his face! However, he’s definitely getting less cheering here than on Silversun. Zhu bangs a gavel twice, shortly bringing order to the theater. “Senator Sumida, your response?” “I believe Senator Strom has badly misinterpreted my words. I and my party have no apprehension — no qualms — about utilizing the full force of the military to preserve the stability of our nation. Anyone who doubts this only needs to look at the SFP’s support for the Navy during the intervention. Both of my children were involved in the civil war, with my daughter being aboard the Gunnhildur when it arrived in San Colette.” “Thank you, senator. Our next question is to Senator Strom. Over recent weeks some of your comments about the Republic of Biesel have raised concerns among voters. Do you intend to carry out military action against it?” “As the Alliance’s next prime minister I intend to use military force when and where it’s necessary to do so to preserve the Alliance’s security and stability. As a nation that expects to be taken seriously, we cannot stand idly by and hope issues will resolve themselves without force. One only needs to look at the blasted ruins of Mictlan’s once-great cities to see what happens when we abandon our own. What took us centuries to build took the so-called ‘Republic’ months to destroy.” “Thank you. Senator Renaud, your response?” “With due respect to Senator Strom, Biesel isn’t a one-system nation we can use the Navy to push around at will any longer. They’ve absorbed much of our territory and several of our fleets. Any use of force against Biesel would spark the largest foreign conflict we’ve been in since the Interstellar War, and who’s to say it’ll stop with us and Biesel? The Coalition’s right there, and the nations of the Sparring Sea are already at one another’s throats. Will we brag about liberating Mictlan only to have destroyed it again?” “This is a ridiculous accusation designed to slander me as a warmonger!” “Senator Strom, must I remind you of the rules of this debate?” Zhu looks to the Jintarian. “You may give a formal response to Senator Renaud if you so choose.” “I don’t find it necessary to respond to her when she’s completely misconstrued my response to make me into some successor of Frost. It’s an insult to both my character and the character of those who helped overthrow Frost!” “Thank you, senators,” Zhu, despite her professional demeanor, cannot help but look a bit irritated for a moment. “Senator Trang, the next question is yours. If elected you’ve stated you intend to fight back against Hephaestus Industries and other megacorporations. How do you intend to do so?” “The best way to fight against megacorporations is to attack the corruption they use to make themselves dominant in the market and snuff out the competition, or buy it out. Unless we want to end up serving shareholders instead of our citizens, we need to be vigilant against these megacorporations. It only takes one bought election to roll back the SCA’s regulations and turn us into another Biesel.” “Thank you, senator. Will there be any responses from the candidates?” Zhu looks around at the assembled hopefuls. “I see. Senator Pavlov, the next question is for you. Some member states, such as Visegrad, have a complicated history with the Soviet Union and communism. Do you have any reassurances for these citizens?” “I do, yes. Under the leadership of the communist party their small businesses will be freed of interference by megacorporations and other cronyists, allowing them to enter into a new age of prosperity. There is no reason to be concerned about our leadership.” “Thank you. Senator Sumida, your response?” “I have no reason to believe Senator Pavlov and the communists will stop with just megacorporations. After they’re finished with Idris, they’ll come for large Solarian-owned corporations such as San Colette’s TyVS, then they’ll work their way down to businesses operating on just a planet, just a province, just a city, just a town — they won’t stop until every single planet in our Alliance is a copy of Pluto,” as Sumida finishes, the audience erupts into cheering! “Thank you. Senator Pavlov, do you have a retort?” “Only to say the conservatives have misunderstood our positions for centuries, and will continue to do so.” “Right. Our final question is for Senator Renaud. You have stated you would increase funding to the Mandates and Mars. How do you intend to raise the funds for this?” “While they’re not popular by any means, the best way to raise money for our fellow Solarians is to increase taxes on our corporations and the richest people in the Alliance. This isn’t, before Senator Sumida mentions it, directed at Solarian-owned corporations such as TyVS: it’s for megacorporations and the ultra-wealthy. If Idris wants to do business in the Alliance, they’ll need to do it on our terms: we aren’t Biesel, where a megacorporation executive’s sibling serves as their military’s head!” “Thank you. Any responses, candidates? Zhu looks around at the assembled hopefuls yet again. And again, silence. “With no rebuttals from our candidates, I believe that concludes our debate. Doctor Dai?” “Candidates, Doctor Zhu,” Dai begins, smiling politely at the assembled politicians and crowd, “thank you for the time. This concludes our second and likely final debate. Good luck in the elections!” Edited February 7 by NewOriginalSchwann 2
NewOriginalSchwann Posted February 12 Posted February 12 Candidates in Profile: Kliment Pavlov Article 19 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Election 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 reporter, Le Quynh Cong, met with CPASSN candidate Kliment Pavlov on San Colette during a campaign stop. The following interview has been edited for length. Le Quynh Cong: “Thanks for agreeing to meet with me and speak about the election.” Kliment Pavlov: “Of course. I am happy to dispel rumors spread about me by my rivals.” LQC: “Can you tell us a bit about yourself? To help the audience get to know you.” KP: “I am from Pluto and, until my election as senator, worked in the bureaucracy with my wife. My son works in the refining industry as an engineer. In my younger days I was quite a prolific ice hockey player on Pluto. You can find some of my team’s photos in the Yuri Andropov Ice Hockey Arena in Leningrad, on Earth.” LQC: “During the debates the legitimacy of the communist party as a serious political entity has been questioned. Do you have any response to this?” KP: “It is all too common for the capitalist system to degrade the viability of socialist institutions to blind their workers. Who was it that first discovered warp travel and sent humanity beyond Earth? The Soviet Union!” LQC: “So, what would be your first goals if elected PM?” KP: “First we must move to secure our Alliance against foreign corporate influence. The SCA will be fortified — turned into a bastion against corporatism — and we will use it to break apart the megacorporations still inside our borders, then distribute their assets to the common people. It will be a difficult path, yes, but it will lead us into an even greater future. We have not experienced an Alliance totally free of megacorporate influence since the Interstellar War!” LQC: “What about your foreign policy?” KP: “We must look inwards to our own flaws before we move to sweep away the robber barons who have seized our systems and oppressed our peoples. It may take decades, but the fall of Biesel is inevitable. I can see it as clearly as I see you.” LQC: “What will you do if you lose the election?” KP: “I will continue to represent Pluto’s people and Party until I am defeated by another.” Further Reading: Mictlani Exiles’ Group Rallies in Support of Strom Renaud Releases New Ad Series with Cats, Holds Rally on Silversun Callisto 3, Visegrad 2: The Unbreakable Team? 1
NewOriginalSchwann Posted February 14 Posted February 14 The State of the Race: February 2467 Article 20 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Election The camera zooms in on the ever-recognizable face of Harold MacMillan, host of The State of Sol. The veteran newscaster nods to the camera, takes a moment to stare at it, and begins speaking. “Good evening, and welcome back to The State of Sol. I’m your host, Harold MacMillan. In today’s featured story we talk with Doctor Giacomo Principi, of the Callistean Institute of Interstellar Studies and an expert on Solarian elections. Doctor, thank you for coming onto the program.” The camera pans out to reveal a middle-aged man in a nice suit sitting across from MacMillan. Doctor Principi is balding and clean-shaven, with a keenness to his eyes and rimmed glasses on his face. “Thank you for having me,” Principi replies. “Now, Doctor Principi, you know me — I’m not Cèline,” the academic smiles a bit at MacMillan’s joke, “so let’s get right to business: how do you believe the two recent debates have impacted our candidates’ standings in the polls?” “Thank you, Harold — I’ve never been one for Cytherean small-talk,” MacMillan laughs for a moment, “but, continuing, initial polling data we’ve reviewed suggests gains for Renaud, Sumida, and Strom at the cost of Trang.” “What about Pavlov?” “He’s holding strongly in areas traditionally dominated by the communists, but hasn’t made progress elsewhere. The communists will have some degree of political force in the Senate, yes, but it doesn’t seem realistic Pavlov will become PM. Potentially a critical figure in whatever coalition government runs the Senate, but not the PM.” “You don’t think the Populists or Social Democrats will achieve a majority?” “One might be close, but we don’t think so. It depends on how they both perform on some of the more contested worlds such as Earth, which is evenly split between them and has a significant percentage of the Senate’s seats. For example, the European Union’s senatorial districts might be a near even split — a ‘dead heat’ to use a more popular term — between the SPDP, SPP, and SFP. That could be the situation across most of Earth.” “And how would that impact the Senate, and whoever becomes PM?” “Let’s assume, say, Trang wins, Harold.” “Right.” “But the Socialist Unity Party only has, say, 38% of the Senate. Which means they’re going to need to cooperate with another party, such as the Popular Democratic Party, to get above the 50% needed to pass anything. This may effectively curtail some of the more radical ideas our populist parties have.” “Such as the rhetoric surrounding the breakaway system of Tau Ceti?” “That’s right, yes. We’ve already seen Senators Sumida and Renaud advocate for a more diplomatic solution to the ongoing territorial disputes.” “I suppose it’s up to the people then, Doctor Principi.” “That it is, Harold.” “And that’s all the time we have! Doctor, thank you for your time.” “Thank you for having me.” “The SANN will be right back with more news, so stay tuned!” Macmillan points at the camera. “Up next: Callisto goes back to Xanu for a rematch of last year’s game. Can they remain undefeated?” The camera fades out to the SANN jingle as MacMillan and Principi — neither being recorded anymore — seem to talk casually among one another.
NewOriginalSchwann Posted February 16 Posted February 16 (edited) Candidates in Profile: Hendrik Strom Article 21 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Election 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 reporter Eberechi Oteh met with SPP candidate Hendrik Strom. During a rare break from the senator’s busy campaign schedule. The following interview has been edited for length. Eberechi Oteh: Senator, thank you for meeting with me. Hendrik Strom: Of course. A press independent of megacorporations and the government is a cornerstone of our Alliance’s democracy. EO: “Can you start by talking a bit about yourself for our viewers?” HS: Happily. “I’m a Jintarian and I’m proud of it — I’ve given my life to serving both my community and the wider Alliance. I met my wife Annie when I was just a councilman and we’ve been together since, and have raised two daughters: Annette and Henrietta, who both now work in the Department of State. Annie likes to tell me that if I can do as good of a job as PM as I did raising them, I’ll have all of our problems fixed in a year [laughs]!” EO: “What about your suit? You’re always seen in a grey suit, so how did that start?” HS: “I started doing it to contrast the Cytherean politicians in their Walk-Like-Idris suits — the ones that cost a typical hydroponics worker’s yearly wage to buy. I get my suits from Nicola Tagliavento’s: it’s a small, family-owned business a few blocks from the apartment I lived in when I got into politics. They still make all of my suits.” EO: “How many do you have?” HS: “Four.” EO: “Only four?” HS: “Any money I could spend on more clothes is better spent fighting for the real reason I got into politics: the common Solarian, who might be struggling to put food on their table and pay their bills, or be worried a synthetic or alien might replace the job they’ve been working for years. That’s something worth fighting for.” EO: “If you’re elected Prime Minister, what would your first actions in office be?” HS: “You’ll have to forgive my arrogance, but I don’t think there’s an ‘if’ I become PM. When I’m elected, I intend to act on my campaign promises: the SCA will be bolstered, megacorporate influence will be curtailed, synthetic labor will be more tightly regulated, and alien immigration will become harder.” EO: “What about Tau Ceti?” HS: “That’s an issue we can address after the election — but let me caution you and say I’m not the warmongering maniac some members of the press have made me out to be. When politicians across the political spectrum were willing to sit by and let Frost launch another invasion of Biesel back in ‘62, I was one of the first to stand up and go ‘no’ to him.” EO: “Recent polling suggests the SPP might be short of the absolute majority it needs in the Senate to pass legislation without a coalition government. Do you have any comment on this?” HS: “We’ll work with whoever we need to to get our policies through. The Alliance should be above petty partisanship, and we don’t have to worry about anyone other than humans — I stand by my support of the Third Tajara Ban. Those innocents on New Hai Phong would still be alive if we had been harsher on immigration.” Further Reading: “Never Pavlov” Rally in Fellegvar, Visegrad, Draws Thousands Despite Rain SAMV Gunnhildur and Crew Honored with Colettish Medal of Freedom in Ceremony Callisto-Xanu “Game of the Decade” Football Match Scheduled for 22/02/67 at 18:00 GST on all SANN Channels Edited Thursday at 01:14 by NewOriginalSchwann
NewOriginalSchwann Posted Monday at 23:00 Posted Monday at 23:00 Live from New Hai Phong! Article 21 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Election The camera, after the SANN jingle, zooms in on the distinctive mustached face of Harold MacMillan, who nods his head to the camera (and audience, by extension). “Good afternoon, and welcome back to The State of Sol. With a little over a week to go until the federal elections we go to our reporter on-scene in Cua Song, New Hai Phong: Le Quynh Cong. Le, what are you seeing down there?” The camera switches to the bespectacled reporter the audience is familiar with, now wearing her respirator. Behind her a crowd of Hai Phongers in election regalia mill about, some talking with one another and some celebrating something unknown to the viewer. Cong waves to the camera and begins speaking — her eyes suggest she’s smiling, but her mouth is invisible under the mask. “Hi Harold!” she begins, voice muffled slightly by her respirator. “I’m here at the Ngoi Sao Chuyen spaceport in a rally in support of Trang, who many view as representing the planet’s interests!” “Who’s attending the rally?” “All kinds of people! We’ve got line workers and roboticists from the factories, government employees, service workers, even a few bureaucrats! It really feels like change is in the air here!” “Anyone particularly interesting who’d be willing to go on air?” “Yes! Uh, hang on Harold,” Cong turns from the camera, puts her mic down for a second, and gestures to the crowd for a few moments. She then turns back. “He’s coming, one second!” Out of the crowd emerges a middle-aged and sturdily built Hai Phongers man wearing a SFLU-emblazoned baseball hat and a shirt that says “AESON AND LY OUT — TRANG IN!” over a Solarian sun. Above that he’s got on a reflective, heavy-duty jacket — this is someone who works for his living. “You needed me to speak?” he asks. “Yes, if you’re willing!” “I am.” “Awesome! Harold, this is Pham Bá Lǒc — he’s a labor organizer from Nhom Hy Vong who’s been trying to get out the vote for Trang in Gung Hy Vong and Sieng Nang Zi.” “The two major Hephaestus facilities there,” Pham leans in to add. “Right! Anyways, Bá Lǒc, can you tell the audience a bit about what it’s been like to campaign against Hephaestus?” “Harder than you’d think in a democracy,” Pham snorts bitterly. “Hephaestus knows how dangerous the likes of Trang and Strom are, so they give us lectures on how we’re all going to lose our jobs if they get elected. They even brought someone from Governor Loy’s office in to tell us about the ‘dangers’ of it.” “And you’ve been fighting against that?” Cong asks in response. A few people in the crowd have started watching her and Pham, interested in hearing what they’re saying. “Yeah, and it's been easy. We’re not college guys, but we aren’t the idiots corporate things we are — all of the guys on the line have seen the corruption Hephaestus gets into firsthand. They own this whole planet, and Trang’s the only one fighting them.” “I see you’re wearing a Federation hat, are you a member?” “Yeah, proudly. I ran the local chapter a few years ago but had to give it up to our next president — term ended,” Pham shrugs. The watching crowd in the back’s grown larger. “What do you think about it endorsing Renaud?” “I mean I’m disappointed but I get it, you know? Renaud’s for workers and I’m… fine with her, I guess, but I don’t know if she’ll fight for us. We need someone to fight like a demon for NHP, and only Trang’s gonna do that.” “Thank you for your time.” “Of course. And for the people watching at home,” Pham leans into the camera a bit and points right at the viewer! “VOTE FOR LABOR, NOT FOR LUNA!” Pham raises his fist into the air, coat flapping a bit, and turns to the crowd — which cheers and claps for the union man! “VOTE LABOR!” they cheer, “NOT LUNA!!” Cong watches the crowd for a moment, seemingly a bit swept up in it all, before turning back to the camera. Pham continues his chant, having gotten the crowd into it. “And there you have it!” she says. “Back to you, Harold.” The camera switches back to MacMillan behind his desk, looking a bit more concerned than he was before — but it only lasts a moment before he switches back to his confident expression. “Thank you, Le. The State of Sol will be right back with more of the hard-hitting and truthful commentary you’ve gone to expect from us.” The camera zooms out (and fades out) into a commercial for Trang, showing the candidate shaking hands with a crowd of factory workers in Hephaestus colors. It proudly declares her as, “the only candidate willing to take the fight to megacorporation corruption!”
NewOriginalSchwann Posted Thursday at 01:17 Posted Thursday at 01:17 Candidates in Profile: Le Hanh Trang Article 22 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Election 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 reporter Eberechi Oteh met with SSUP candidate Le Hanh Trang during a rare break from the senator’s busy campaign schedule. The following interview has been edited for length. Eberechi Oteh: “Senator, thank you for taking the time to meet with us.” Le Hanh Trang: “Of course. It’s important to get our voice out there as the SSUP, especially when we’ve been so slandered.” EO: “Can you start off by telling me a bit about yourself?” LHT: “By training I’m an attorney, and served as an Assistant Solarian Alliance Attorney before entering politics after I got a firsthand look at New Hai Phong’s corruption. My husband’s still in law, and we don’t have any children.” EO: “What was your first look at corruption?” LHT: “Our office was working with the SISA to take down a fairly sizable branch of a criminal enterprise in Ton Gwai Pei — that’s an area corrupt even by Haiphong standards, to give you a sense of this — but somebody started informing the criminals from inside our office, allegedly taking kickbacks in exchange for reduced sentences. That blew the entire case up in our faces.” EO: “Did you find out who the mole was?” LHT: “Things like that tend to get forgotten on Haiphong. We never did, and I left after that. If I couldn’t fix the system from the Solarian Attorney’s Office, I’d go into politics. It sounds bizarre, but when you’re in your late 20s and freshly married you’re more willing to take these leaps.” EO: “How did you get into politics?” LHT: “I joined the ticket of the Haiphongese Socialist Party — later the SSUP — and got into local office, then the Senate, by being a fighter. I’ve never stopped being a fighter, Eberechi. That photo of me from ‘59 describes my whole philosophy.” EO: “The photo of you with bloody knuckles in the Senate?” LHT: “Yes, from after we got anti-corruption passed despite ATLAS opposition. One of them tried to punch me in my jaw, but he missed. I didn’t. That’s what put me on the map as a senator.” EO: “Putting the past aside, what would you do if elected PM?” LHT: “We need to fortify the Alliance against further megacorporate meddling in both our economy and our elections. Look at the interview with Mister Pham not even half a week ago — are we going to sit by and let Hephaestus turn us into another client state, just like the Hegemony? Are we really no smarter than that?” EO: “You’ve also spoken out against further alien immigration. Do you still hold these views?” LHT: “Yes. Hephaestus has shuttled in cheap alien labor for decades and the Solarian people have finally gotten wise to their tricks. Need I remind you that Haiphongers paid real blood for megacorporation greed? I visited the site of the Tajara Revolutionary Army bombing the day of. Men, women, children, grandparents — all killed by an alien immigrant’s attack. Lives snuffed out, families destroyed, children reduced into bloody corpses — and people still advocate for them. The tajara can’t even live in peace on their own planet, let alone the Alliance!” EO: “Polling suggests the SSUP is on the way to needing a coalition around it, if you become PM. Is that something you’re prepared to do?” LHT: “We’ve already been in talks regarding potential coalition partners. I can’t say more at the time.” EO: “For a closing question, do you have any thoughts about Senator Strom? You’ve worked a lot together over the years, before your falling out over the SCA.” LHT: “I think it’s ironic he accused my party of being words, no action, when he walked back his rhetoric over Biesel during your interview. That’s all I have to say.” Further Reading: Strom, Sumida Hold Rallies on Earth as Election Day Approaches Renaud to Hold Video Rally with Callistean Football Team on 20 February Suwon Sea Bandits Anticipated to Win Konyang Baseball League - Analysis
NewOriginalSchwann Posted 7 hours ago Posted 7 hours ago Live from San Colette! Article 23 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Election As the traditional SANN opening graphic and jingle ends, the camera zooms in on the ever-present face of Harold MacMillan: mustached and with the Callistean flag pin adding a bit of local flair to his suit. “Good evening, and welcome back to The State of Sol. As always I’m your host, Harold MacMillan. As the eyes of the Spur go to Xanu in anticipation of tomorrow’s football game between Callisto and Xanu, the SANN goes to the Sovereign Solarian Republic of San Colette’s capital, Nueva Isabela, where Céline Eylenbosch is reporting live from a Sol First Party rally. Over to you, Céline.” The camera switches to the blonde and well-dressed Cytherean star of the SANN, who is standing in a fancy-looking ballroom surrounded by well-dressed Coletters — some wearing Solarian Navy or Colettish Civil Guard uniforms. “Thank you, Harold, and good evening, dear viewers. I’m reporting from a meeting of the Fraternal Order of Naval Officers — the largest Navy veteran organization and an endorser of Senator Sumida.” “Who’s at this meeting aside from veterans, Céline?” Harold asks. “Many people, Harold. Notable members of civil society, engineers and researchers, and members of San Colette’s local military forces. If only you had tuned in earlier, President Sarmiento just spoke.” “The President of the Colettish Republic?” “The same, Harold,” Eylenbosch sighs a bit, “if only she had stopped for an interview, hm?” “Do you have anyone to interview?” “Oh, Harold, you wound me. Of course I have someone to interview,” Eylenbosch snaps her fingers to someone behind the camera, making eye contact with them, then looks back to the camera. “They’ll be here in a moment.” A few moments later, true to Eylenbosch’s word, a serious-looking younger woman in a Civil Guard dress uniform enters the frame and stands opposite the Cytherean — she’s just a bit shorter than Eylenbosch, who angles the mic to her counterpart. “Good evening. I am Corvette Captain Leticia de la Fuente of the Colettish Civil Guard,” de la Fuente pauses for a moment. “It seems I have a habit of being interviewed by the media.” “What do you mean, hm?” “Well, ah, I worked with the XNS when they were reporting from here during the Civil War. But that was only for a few weeks, I reported to the frontline after that.” “So you’ve seen combat?” Eylenbosch lights up a bit at the prospect. “I have, yes. I was engaged in space, orbital, and terrestrial combat during the Civil War.” “A legitimate war hero, dear viewers! Why do you support Sumida?” “He’s the only candidate, speaking as myself and not for the Civil Guard, who seems to truly value the Solarian Armed Forces. Strom talks about them, and I value what he did in the Civil War, but I don’t think the Populists can ever truly understand the military, especially the Navy.” “Why is that, my dear hero?” “We have an institutional tradition stretching back to before the space age, ma’am. There’s a pride that comes with wearing a uniform and serving the broader Alliance.” “And what about the Mandates?” unlike Cong, Eylenbosch has not caused a stir in the crowd. They continue politely talking with one another as the officer and Cytherean talk. “If we set up a system where the Mandates rely on handouts from Unity Station, we’re just recreating the system that let disloyal officers step in and establish fiefdoms when it collapsed. We have to pick ourselves back up after a certain point.” “Thank you, my dear captain, for your time. Harold, back to you.” The camera switches back to MacMillan, who looks as comfortable as ever. He nods to the camera. “The State of Sol will be right back with more of the news you rely on from around the Spur. But before we go to commercial break, one last message from me:” MacMillan raises his fist! “Go Callisto, beat Xanu!”
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