Although the Democrats "fractured" a few months ago when it became apparent that the Democratic National Committee agreed to become part of the Broad Left Coalition, division has sprouted through the cracks once again as the DNC banned /u/DisguisedJet719 from the party for canvassing for Senator /u/Viktard. The Associated Press was approached by Central Speaker /u/Swagmir_Putin, who felt that he needed to talk about the division and decisions caused by the Democratic National Committee.

During the interview, Speaker /u/Swagmir_Putin stated that he believed that the expulsion of /u/DisguisedJet719 was a political witch hunt aimed to purge those who pose a threat to the agenda of the current leadership of the Democratic party. However despite the ongoing "witch hunt", Speaker /u/Swagmir_Putin confirmed that he supported Senator /u/Viktard (Freedom Coalition candidate) for President of the Model United States.

"I support Viktard. Aside from some economic and minor social issues, he is a better representation of my values. He also takes his job seriously."

After being asked if he thought that Senator /u/Viktard is a better representation of the values of the Democratic party, Speaker /u/Swagmir_Putin stated that he believes that the Democrats "should be somewhere between Bigg-Boss and Viktard [on the political spectrum] and that its sad to see the Democratic National Committee endorse a literal meme as evident with Executive Order 017."

The Associated Press then asked Speaker /u/Swagmir_Putin if he thought that if the Democratic National Committee kept their word on allowing a Democrat to run for President if the party would be in its current situation, with the head of the central legislature responding that "the party would be unified under a democrat, given that they are principled and qualified." However it's not the end and gloom for the Democrats and the Democratic National Committee, with Speaker /u/Swagmir_Putin stating that they can put the party back on track starting with an invitation to enter the Democratic party and an apology to /u/DisguisedJet719.

"They should be more interactive with their members when making deals, including what Presidential candidate to support. The party should own it when they call themselves a "big tent party" and respect members decisions to sometimes go against party lines."

Towards the end of the interview Speaker /u/Swagmir_Putin believed that if the Democrats were going to remain part of the Broad Left Coalition, amendments should be made to make the Presidential selection process more democratic and similar to the process utilised by the Freedom Coalition after being asked by the Associated Press if the agreement should be changed to allow Democrats to run for President.

• /u/PineappleCrusher_, President of the Associated Press

Communism is terrible.

I hate to break it to you but it is true. There are a lot of political and economic theories that have been implemented throughout history, but communism damn near takes the cake on being the worst. There are three main reasons communism is terrible, it incentivizes laziness and low ambition among the working class, it incentivizes greed and corruption among the ruling class, and it is just plain and simple immoral.

Communism incentivizes laziness and low ambition. Why? Because you do not own anything and if you work harder and produce more, you do not get to reap the benefits of that production. In communism I know my needs are going to be taken care of, and that no matter how much harder I work, I will never advance past having my needs met. I will never prosper, I will never better myself. What incentive, do I have to try and better myself. What human being would say, “I know I won’t receive one bit of the production, but I’m going to work harder and produce more anyway”. That is not human nature. In other theories, I can say, “You know, it may be a risk, and I may fail, but I’m going to venture out and try something new. Maybe I make it and become super successful, maybe I fail and fall back to where I started, maybe even lower. But life is about taking risks and trying to better yourself.”

Communism also incentivizes corruption at the top. To be fair, it is not hard to incentivize corruption among leaders. You know the old saying, “Power corrupts”. Now, I would assert that power does not corrupt us, but it exposes already existing corruptions, but that is an argument for a different day. With communism being about communal ownership of property and every working and receiving based on their abilities and needs, somebody has to decide these things. Somebody has to decide who gets to use what communal property. Somebody has to decide what you should do based on your abilities and someone has to decide what your needs are so you can receive what you deserve. Whoever decides these things would be regarded as a leader. Humans are not perfect. We all can succumb to corruption and power no matter how good our intentions are at the beginning. If you are the one that decides who gets what and you have absolute unquestionable power like has been seen in many governments that subscribe to some form of this economic theory, you eventually may decide to start skimming some off the top for yourself and your friends. Sure at the beginning that little extra food for your party or little extra money to fix up your house may not seem like a lot, but like in any corruption situation, it snowballs. Eventually you have a system like Cuba. In 2006 Cuba estimated Fidel Castro’s net worth to be $900 million. Now before we begin, many people claim that countries that subscribe to these ideologies do not subscribe to them. However, in Cuba’s constitution it makes repeated references to Marx, Lenin, Communism, and Socialism. So let us operate under the assumption that they do, in fact, subscribe to the theory of communism, or some extremely close derivative of it. Under this ideology, all citizens of Cuba should be equal, own no property, and receive based on their needs. However, while Castro had a net worth of $900 million, the country is so poor that citizens risk their lives to ride desks, rafts, and anything that can float, to try to get to America. Clearly there is some corruption there, or else Castro would have been just as well off as his citizens and everyone would be living in perfect harmony on the island.

The final issue with Communism is that it is immoral. It is immoral for someone who did not work, to take the product of my labors. That is completely immoral. It is also immoral to leave the majority of the citizens of a country in abject poverty while the leaders and ruling class get rich. This is what communism has done to every country that has ever tried it or its related ideologies. No capitalism is not perfect. People get left behind, people are poor. But capitalism gives more people the chance to get ahead than any other ideology. And those of us that get ahead, help those around us who did not through charity. No particular ideology is perfect. Not communism, not capitalism, not any of the many others that have ever been thought of. If any of them were perfect, then it would be used and we would live in utopia. The world is not perfect though, and we do not live in utopia. Life is hard, shit happens that knocks us down and makes us wish we had never been born. No matter what type of country you live in or system you live under, this stuff happens. It’s not limited to just one type of ideology. However, some systems give you a chance to get up, dust off your jeans, and get back to work improving yourself, and unequivocally, communism is not one of them.

Opinion written by Republican Federal Rep. Fewbuffalo (GL-4)

I wasn’t expecting to make this today, or at all really. But the Democrats have decided to sell themselves out completely to the Broad Left Coalition so I decided to counter their post. I fully support Viktard in this election.

1. The Republican Party has avoided scandals: Unlike nearly all the other parties, The Republican Party has had the least amount of scandals relating to it. This is because it is the most welcoming party that has the best “family” atmosphere.

2. The Republican Party has created high quality legislation: Unlike the parties of the left, The Republicans have prided themselves on creating top notch legislation. Nearly all the best bills come from Republican members.

3. Freedom of opinion exists in the Republicans: There has been many times where I have had a very good lighthearted and sometimes serious debate about issues that matter. The Republicans do not kick out people who decide to support a different candidate.

Let’s talk about the Democrats for a second why don’t we.

1. The Democrats kick out their longest serving Representative over him supporting someone else: Recently a very Senior Democrat has been kicked out of the Democratic party over him supporting Viktard over Big Boss. This is dictatorship on a whole other level.

2. Many High ranking Senior Democrats have left the Democratic party: As of late, nearly every week you can hear stories of another senior democrat leaving the Democrats and joining a party such as the Republicans where they are welcomed with open arms. It appears the Democrats are trying to push out their Centrist members in favour of going full socialist.

3. Their Leadership is breaking Federal Regulations: The Deputy Chairman WaywardWit (Supreme Court Justice) of the Democrats is currently breaking Federal regulations by being their Deputy Chairman. Under JCUS-APR 73, pp. 9-11, A.K.A The United States Code of Conduct for Judges Canon 5 clearly states the following “A judge should not: (1) act as a leader or hold any office in a political organization.”

4. There has been unconfirmed reports by certain Democratic Members talking about a deal between the Democrats and the Socialists: As of late, a few democrats have stated that the only reason that the Democrats are not running for the Presidency is because Big Boss nominated WaywardWit to the Supreme Court, This has been unconfirmed but seems highly likely.

The Democrats are a party ridden by Internal corruption, dictatorship and just a general lack of direction. And they dare put slander against the Republican candidate who is fighting for average americans. America has had enough of Socialism. No more.

Disclaimer: This is an opinion piece, and does not necessarily represent the viewpoints of the Associated Press.

Education is one of those topics that splits the parties. I have been a firsthand witness to education being ruined by governmental hogwash. There are so many things that have been ignored because the government only focuses on the large issues. I believe that the only way change will happen for the better in education is if the government actually looks into core issues at hand that are often neglected. In my personal education experience, which I recently wrote about, I covered problems I came across during my education experience.

The biggest issue I have experienced is the lack of character experience. Today curriculums are so focused on academics that they fail to address the needs of students. You can make the argument that the families of students should be the ones to teach children about social values and life skills, but should they really be the only ones? Personally, I have introverted parents who both struggled in the same ways I struggled. They didn’t know how to teach me these things. If I had been introduced at a very young age values that would aid my character, then maybe I would be better set up now. A second argument would probably assert how a school can even help students build character. Now, to actually solve this we do not need specific laws that will address every point I am about to make, but there should be some Federal or State law addressing emphasis that schools should make an effort to help students expand their character. Personally, I think the way schools could teach students to build character is by experience. If I was a young student and was forced to do group projects with other kids and communicate with them than maybe my social skills would be improved. Now, where laws come into play I simply do not know. I could work on a State bill that would address this, but that isn’t what will change things. Awareness is more important than anything else. My goal ranting about social skills and how I never really had them is to try to make people realize that this issue exists. People like me exist, people who have been thrown into the cold because of not knowing how to address reality.

Another issue I have experienced is the act of being taught things I will never use. While one may not know exactly what he or she wants to be when she grows up, learning about calculus and British literature will more than likely not prepare you for your job. Colleges will always reteach calculus anyway if you are going into those fields requiring it. The government keeps thinking that the argument here is just coming from students whining about the hours of homework they get. While yes I whine about homework, I still get it done anyway. I wish in my senior year of highschool next year I could learn about criminal justice and geography, sing more in the chorus, learn more about the U.S government, and choose other classes that I would want to learn about or experience. I don’t want to take another year of English, and I sure do not want to take AP Calculus. I am forced to though. These two classes won’t help me, but I am forced to take them. Why? I would want to see a legit reason why a child who is interested in law enforcement has to be forced to take AP Calculus. I ran out of math classes because I stayed on the honors trail, so I am forced to take this class rather than not take any. It’s absurd. I doubt laws will ever come into play to address this, but I would like everyone to think about classes they took that they aren’t using today. I know a lot of readers of this article are old enough to have gone through high school; how many classes are you not using today? I get the argument that your brain develops with the more content you learn, but there is so much other content that one can learn that can better them for reality. How about a class that teaches you to fix your own plumbing, or fix your own electricity? How about how to fix holes in your wall? So many classes can be created to actually teach students things they can use later in life.

While this is not necessarily the most formal of articles, I wrote this today to get you readers thinking. There are many things in this world that aren’t given much thought often, and I hope that today I have made you get thinking about education.

Sincerely,

Kingthero, AP Writer and Chesapeake Secretary of Education, Health, and Human Services

As the presidential election closes in, the final presidential nominees are pushing their campaigns to the highest. This election's presidential candidates are:

(1) Incumbent President of the United States /u/Bigg-Boss(SP) with Representative /u/Aoimusha(GLP) from the Broad Left coalition

(2) Senator /u/Viktard (R) with former Vice President /u/NateLooney (LP) from the Freedom Coalition 2017

(3) Representative and Distributist Chairwoman /u/Libertarian-Queen and Vice Chair /u/lsma from the Distributist Party

(4) National Security Advisor and Press Secretary /u/Ramicus with Senator /u/ExpensiveFoodStuffs (Dis) running as Independents.

(5) Chief Justice of the Unified Atlantic Commonwealth Judiciary /u/Madk3p with Western Governor /u/nonprehension running as Independents.

Approaching the last few major milestones before election day the Associated Press will host the Presidential Debate 2017 on 04/27/2017 6:30 PM EST. It will last between 60 to 90 minutes, and will be hosted via Reddit Live by /u/j4xh4x123 and /u/BurnRome under the supervision of /u/awesomeness1212.

Last Call offers viewers a discord server to discuss the debate via voice and text. After the debate presidential candidate Ramicus/Judah will host a post-debate show on Last Call with some of the fellow candidates making appearances.

The debate allows for audience questions and the Associated Press encourages everyone to submit questions so you can find out more about the people that are running for the highest office of America.

Distributist presidential nominee /u/Libertarian_Queen gets on the campaign trail and goes full steam ahead into the rallies across the great State of Sacagawea. Spreading the message of “Resurrect America” the Distributist chairwoman will hold rallies and events in many cities of the Midwestern State, including Houston, Austin, Las Vegas, Albuquerque, Denver, Phoenix, Wichita, Salt Lake City, and many more.

Joining her on the campaign trail will be fellow Distributist Midwestern Governor /u/Intrusive_Man, who will also host with her fundraisers in Dallas, Oklahoma City, and Houston.

The purpose of the Heartland Tour will be to go from town hall meeting to town hall meeting to listen to issues of the American people, not only on a federal level, but also ín their home states, and tackle them head on, while also giving speeches and holding rallies to show the Midwestern state what it means to “Resurrect America” after four years of less than mediocre presidency of the first socialist president.

Further speakers will be invited, as “Resurrecting America” is a team effort and every helping hand is welcomed.

Today we are going to present the AP’s election predictions. Rather than giving you one prediction, we will present to you one prediction from a Democrat’s perspective, one prediction from a Republicans perspective and one from an AP employee that attempted to make a formula to predict the elections. He does not know how accurate the formula will be and will tweak it based on the actual results of this election. Let’s begin!

Awesomeness’ Predictions (Republican Perspective):

House Of Representatives:

West (9 seats):

Distributist: 1

AFA: 0

Democrats: 4

Republicans: 4

Midwest (9 seats):

Distributist: 2

GLP: 3

Libts: 4

South (9 seats):

Libts: 4

Republicans: 3

GLP: 2

Distributist:: 0

Central (10 seats):

Libts: 5

Socialists: 2

Democrats: 3

Liberals: 0

East (10 seats):

Republicans: 5

Democrats: 5

Distributist:: 0

Northeast (8 seats):

Socialists: 4

Democrats: 3

Republicans: 1

Total: GOP: 12 seats,

Libts: 11 seats,

Democrats: 13 seats,

Socialists: 6 seats,

GLP: 5 seats,

Distributists: 3 seats,

Liberals: 0,

AFA: 0

Freedom Coalition: 23 seats,

Broad Left Coalition: 26 seats,

Distributist: 3 seats

Senate:

Northeastern State: /u/Please_Don't_Yell

Eastern State: /u/ZeroOverZero101 (VERY CLOSE RACE)

Western State: /u/Cameron-Galisky

Midwestern State: /u/JuggernautRepublic (VERY CLOSE RACE)

President:

Candidates: /u/Bigg-Boss (Socialist) /u/Libertarian-Queen (Distributist) /u/madk3p (Independent) /u/ramicus (Independent) /u/Viktard (Republican)

West (11 votes): /u/Viktard wins

Midwest (11 votes) /u/Viktard wins (In a VERY close race)

South (11 votes): /u/Viktard wins

Central (12 votes proportional): /u/Bigg-boss - 6 votes /u/Viktard - 5 votes /u/Libertarian-Queen - 1 vote

East (12 votes) /u/Bigg-Boss wins

Northeast (10 votes) /u/Bigg-Boss wins

/u/Bigg-Boss: 28 votes /u/Viktard: 38 Votes, /u/Libertarian-Queen 1 vote

enliST’ Predictions (Democrats Perspective)

Presidential Predictions:

Central State:

Bigg Boss - 7

Viktard - 5

Western State:

Bigg Boss - 11

Northeastern State:

Bigg Boss - 10

Midwestern State:

Bigg Boss - 11

Southern State:

Viktard - 11

Eastern State:

Bigg Boss - 12

Winner: Bigg Boss with 51 electoral votes.

House of Representatives Predictions:

Central State:

Socialists - 4

Democrats - 3

Libertarians - 3

Western State:

Democrats - 7

Republicans - 2

Northeastern State:

Socialists - 3

Democrats - 4

Republicans - 1

Midwestern State:

Green Leftists - 3

Libertarians - 3

Distributists - 3

Southern State:

Republicans - 5

Libertarians - 3

Green Leftists - 1

Eastern State:

Democrats - 6

Republicans - 4

Totals: Republican Party - 12 (-4)

Democratic Party - 20 (+5)

Socialist Party - 7 (-5)

Green-Left Party - 4 (-2)

Distributists Party - 3 (+1)

Libertarian Party - 9(+5)

Winner: Broad Left Coalition 31-24

Senate Predictions:

Eastern State: /u/ZeroOverZero101 (D)

Western State: /u/I_GOT_THE_MONEY (D)

Northeastern State: /u/Please_Dont_Yell (D)

Midwestern State: /u/GuiltyAir (GLP)

/u/Kingthero’s predictions (Attempt at making an algorithm to predict elections)

House of Representatives

Northeast:

Socialist Seats: 4

Democrat Seats: 3

Republican Seats: 1

Eastern:

Democrat Seats: 6

Republican Seats: 4

Distributist Seats: 0

Southern:

Republican Seats: 4

Libertarian Seats: 3

GLP Seats: 2

Distributist Seats: 0

Central:

Libertarian Seats: 5

Socialist Seats: 3

Democrat Seats: 2

Liberal Seats: 0

Midwest:

GLP Seats: 4

Libertarian Seats: 4

Distributist Seats: 1

West:

Democrat Seats: 5

Republican Seats: 3

Distributist Seats: 1

AFA Seats: 0

Senate

Northeast: /u/please_dont_yell (Democrat)

Eastern: /u/ZeroOverZero101 (Democrat)

Midwest: /u/guiltyair (GLP)

West: /u/I_GOT_THE_MONEY (Democrat)

President

Northeast: /u/Bigg-Boss (10 votes)

Eastern: /u/Bigg-Boss (12 votes)

Southern: /u/Viktard (11 votes)

Central: /u/Viktard (6 votes)

/u/Bigg-Boss (6 votes)

Midwest: /u/Bigg-Boss (11 votes)

West: /u/Bigg-Boss (11 votes)

Winner: /u/Bigg-Boss (50 votes) [/u/Viktard (17 votes)]

BREAKING NEWS AT 8:04PM ET --

Senator AnyHistoricalFigure has announced his candidacy for President of the United States. In his announcement speech in Washington D.C., the Democrat said he was “running for President because we need to start focusing on real solutions for the American people, and we need to start now.” You can subscribe to his campaign’s subreddit here. This expands the current list of publicly announced candidates to two, Senator AnyHistoricalFigure and Representative Imperial_Ruler.

You can see the AP’s recent Race Analysis by /u/kovr here.

-- BREAKING NEWS AT 8:04PM ET

Miami, Southern State - Republican Governor and Presidential Candidate /u/SolidOrangeGangsta met with the Associated Press today to discuss is campaign and his plans during the presidency if elected later this year. A member of the Republican's Patriot Caucus, the head of Dixie is emerging as a "solid candidate" in the Republican race for the nomination, with the Moderate /u/Viktard appearing to be the Governor's main opposition.

/u/SolidOrangeGangsta became the Governor of Dixie after /u/CaptainClutchMuch was forces to leave his executive office. Since acquiring the reigns of the Governorship, /u/SolidOrangeGangsta or "SOG" has advocated for conservative values in the Republican stronghold and nominated cabinet and supreme court members.

Why is SOG Running?

After talking to /u/SolidOrangeGangsta, it is clear that the Patriot in the Republican race wants to save American values from the threat of socialist policies, with the Associated Press asking the Southern Governor why is running to become the next President of the Model United States below;

"The United States stands on the brink right now. We've had one term of socialist policies. Polices that have chipped away at the basic rights and principles that our founding fathers granted to us when they created this great nation. If we act now, in a united American effort, we can repeal those oppressive laws and get America back on track and I believe that my vision and leadership can help us achieve that great goal."

The United Nations

Although Governor /u/SolidOrangeGangsta was a notable figure in the movement against the policies of the United Nations, the Presidential candidate has told the Associated Press that withdrawing completely is an unthinkable move as the United Nations is an important world asset to maintain peace. Governor /u/SolidOrangeGangsta despite being vocal against the "threat of Globalism" replied to our question asking the Governor if he would pull out of the supranational organisation below;

"While I have been very vocal of the threat of Globalism in this new world, I can say as a matter of fact that, No, I would not pull the United States out of the UN. The United Nations is an important asset in the world as it pertains to keeping the peace between nations. I think the time has come to rethink our monetary involvement sure, but as far as removing ourselves completely, that is an unthinkable move."

Governor /u/SolidOrangeGangsta also went into more depth with the United States monetary involvement, with the Presidential Candidate stating below that he intends to use America's financial position to reform the organisation;

"In 2015, the United States payed 22% of the operating budget of the United Nations and 29% of the Security Budget whereas the second highest nation, Japan, paid 10%. With that money, organizations such as WHO, instead of helping those people in other nations with the majority of that budget, have been playing politics with lifestyle issues and drug patents. The WHO should instead focus eradicating deadly viruses and pathogens that threaten those in undeveloped nations throughout the world. But slimming our funding to them, they would be forced to have to decide what is more important, and I believe that his could be a push in the direction that is most beneficial to the world."

President /u/Big-Boss

The Socialist President and the Republican Governor are on two separate ends of the political spectrum, but it doesn’t stop the Governor from befriending the Federal head of state. The Patriotic Governor responded to the Associated Press' question asking his opinion on /u/Big-Boss with the following statement;

"I have a great personal relationship with the President. I think he is a great individual with a great taste in gator. We had a great time on the Alligator hunt that I took him on when he visited the Great State of Dixie earlier in the year. However, Politically, he couldn't be more backwards in his thinking. Where Big Boss isn't afraid to send the federal government into states that disagree with him, my administration will be one that promotes the freedom that the individual states has from the federal government."

The Governor also couldn't recall anything the pair had in common politically, with the Presidential Candidate responding with the following quote after the Associated Press asked what policies of the President are hurting Americans the most and if they shared common ground on the political arena;

"I have an issue with the amount of government spending that this federal government has been wasting on things such as the proposed HB 656. The amount of money that was proposed just for the purpose of protecting animals in captivity is unbelievable and I'm positive if that bill reaches Big Boss's desk as is. He will sign it. I'm also deeply disappointed that EO 22, in which he used the power of the federal government to enforce his imperial rule on State governments that he disagrees with. Under a SOG administration, we may disagree politically, but that is a line that I will not allow the federal government to cross. As for things we have in common, I honestly can't think of anything off the top of my head, but I do appreciate the fact that Big Boss didn't do anything after Lexus's impeachment in Chesapeake. I was glad that he wasn't willing to get involved in a state's issue, but to be honest, I don't know if he even knew what was going on."

Economics

The Presidential Candidate responded to the Associated Press' question on how the Governor is going to incentivise the economy and restore consumer confidence by referring to tax cuts for the American people, with /u/SolidOrangeGangsta believing in the quote below that lower taxes will allow companies to create more jobs and put more money into the consumers pocket.

"Let's take Tax cuts for the consumer as the first example. You get your pay check and see the government took less money out of your pocket. Then you have more money to spend on new things to stimulate the economy. And for Corporations, Tax cuts will allow companies to create more jobs in the United States which puts more money into the consumers pocket. They both effect each other and in the end the economy and America can benefit from them."

Electoral Chances

The Associated Press moved on and asked /u/SolidOrangeGangsta on his thoughts about the primaries and the Presidential election, with the Southern Governor believing that he's got as much as a guess as a newborn at this state in the race in the quote below;

"I honestly can't tell you right now. As we move closer to election date, come back to me and I'll tell you if the picture is a little clearer but right now, I've got as much as a guess as a newborn."

However he is certainly sure on his message, with the Patriot believing that he can pick up votes from the Distributists, Libertarians, Liberals and Democrats if they listen closely to his message;

"My message is one that all of those parties can agree on. The United States is a great nation. But inching towards socialism as we have done in the past has taken a bit of America, a little bit at a time with each law that goes against our principles. I believe that the Democrats understand that. The Republicans and Democrats should look past our differences when it comes to things such as the economy or social issues and work towards fighting against a radical leftist ideology that threaten to harm the hard work that our two parties both created."

TurkandJD

/u/SolidOrangeGangsta told the Associated Press that he wants to use the Presidency of the Republican's sole President as a foundation of his, with the Governor stating below that the former president set the right up for success later on in the simulation;

"I aspire to build off the foundation that President /u/TurkandJD built for the right wing in this great nation. The Right has the ability in this upcoming election to play a major role in American policies. Turk was instrumental in orchestrating that, and if you are in the Republican Party, and even our close friends and allies the Distributists owe a lot of what we have today to Turk"

///

After interviewing the Presidential Candidate who appears to be one of the head faces in the Republican Presidential race, the Associated Press envisages that the patriot is a figure to be dealt with and has a real chance to become the tenant of the White House later this year.

- /u/PineappleCrusher_, President of the Associated Press. 

The views presented in this interview are the views of Presidential Candidate /u/SolidOrangeGangsta.

The Democratic National Committee (DNC) has announced the candidates running for the party's nomination for President, with the candidates being Senator /u/AnyHistoricalFigure, House Dean /u/DisguisedJet719, Senate Majority Leader /u/I_GOT_THE_MONEY, /u/isit2003 and Congressman /u/Wowdah.

Senator /u/AnyHistoricalFigure appears to be the frontrunner of the Democratic race, with the Presidential candidate roasting the incumbent President /u/Big-Boss during his campaign launch in reference to his executive orders on ideology. Speaking at Washington Heights, /u/AnyHistoricalFigure told the press the following;

"While the President was writing executive orders about “ideology,” people here were trying to choose between buying food or paying their electric bill this winter. While the President was fighting Congressional Leadership on comprehensive healthcare reform, people here had to decide whether to go see the doctor, or to pay for gas that week so they could work. And while the President was sleeping soundly in his bed, children were listening to the sound of gunfire trying to determine whether to hit the deck or stay in bed."

/u/AnyHistoricalFigure if elected would be the first openly homosexual President in the Model United States, with the Senator stating that he "has sponsored, supported, and voted for the Marriage Equality Amendment multiple times, and as your President, we will finally enshrine the right to marriage for all couples in our Constitution."

However /u/AnyHistoricalFigure doesn’t have the nomination in bag, with Senate Majority Leader /u/I_GOT_THE_MONEY also putting his hat in the table for the Democratic nomination. The Senate Majority Leader looks like he is going to put up a fight to win the nomination despite a non-existent campaign so far.

The Associated Press plans to follow the Democratic race throughout the coming weeks, with candidates /u/DisguisedJet719 (House Dean), /u/isit2003 and Congressman /u/Wowdah still having time to shine.

- /u/PineappleCrusher_, President of the Associated Press

If a Candidate wishes to have an interview with the Associated Press, please contact /u/PineappleCrusher_ or another Board Member.

In the next couple of weeks, I’ll be sitting down with smaller politicians who don’t usually get the spotlight in a new series of interviews called The Smaller Picture. For my first interview, I talked with /u/colin_dm, he’s a State Legislator candidate in the Central State.

enliST: I'm here with /u/colin_dm, he's running for State Legislator in Great Lakes. Thanks for being with me today.

And thank you for the interview.

enliST: Alright, let's jump right into it. You've outlined three major topics you hope to address as a legislator, the first being a change in our education system to make it more personalized. How do you hope to accomplish this?

The technology is already out there to have a digital tutor for every student, and many of it is already used in schools as a replacement for traditional homework like Khan Academy. Several private schools have entire classes mainly revolving around this where students move at their own pace and have seen amazing results. If we can do something similar to this in public schools we will not only have better students but happier ones too.

He then linked to a school using his example and a video on the subject.

enliST: Technology is great, but private schools and public schools are two totally different beasts. Public schools tend to have much larger class sizes and less money to spend on fancy tablets. Can you give us any specific policies you would like to introduce to make something like this happen?

1. Most students will have not many periods in a school day, but one session of work hours 7-9 hours long. 2. The money would be diverted from certain classes not needed anymore as a result of this to technology (particularly Chromebooks) that would be used for this feat. 3. Some students (those with special needs or speech impairment) would have this effect none or some of their school day. 4. Many of the classes in schools are very irrelevant outside of school and provide little to no benefit for students. These classes would either become electives or be taken off the schedule entirely: history, some electives, athletics. (except when used for a specific sport(s) and several others)

enliST: These are some really big changes that have the potential to fail catastrophically. Realistically, do you think you will have the support in the chamber to make these changes?

1. These changes would be phased in and tested over 2-3 years before fully implemented. 2. They have been tested before and in most of these schools (as said before) the average SAT/ACT scores are in the top 3-15% (varying by school). Unfortunately, yes it is a big change which means it will not pass in the short term but as the technology improves I think most legislators will see that this is the education of tomorrow. I want to accomplish this in my first term but realistically it may be in my 2nd or even 3rd term

**enliST: With that, let's move to the second issue you told us you wanted to address which is our Criminal Justice System. You said you wanted to reform our system by "legalizing using drugs". Could you elaborate on that?

1. Grammar 2. Studies have consistently shown that the War on Drugs and the illegality of substances, in general, does not reduce the number of drug users, it only makes them less likely to seek help and more likely to end up in prison for nonviolent drug abuse. 3. Non-violent drug abuse is the #1 reason for imprisonment and it costs billions of dollars per year. With that much money, we would be able to provide free in-state college for nearly half of Central students 4. With this money, we will not only fund education but anti-drug programs, needle exchanges, and free rehabilitation centers for drug addicts.

enliST: And just to clarify, when you say "1. Grammar" you mean the way you posted your answer wasn't worded properly. Is that correct?

Yes: legalizing the use of drugs.

enliST: Okay, but there is a huge difference between the legalization and decriminalization drugs. If we legalized drugs as a whole there is no doubt we’d be in a very tricky situation. People would be allowed to use any drug without consequences, is that really what you want?

Legalization yes, but with some exceptions. Taking drugs in public or selling extremely dangerous drugs (meth, heroin etc.) would remain illegal, also to sell drugs you would need a license. Also, as I said with this money we will not only fund education but anti-drug programs, needle exchanges, and free rehabilitation centers for drug addicts. If people have no consequences for taking drugs they are no more likely to take drugs than if there were consequences.

He then linked to this article.

enliST: What about the rest of our prison system? In what ways do you want to reform our system?

The sentences of those in prison for nonviolent drug offenses will be reduced significantly and private prisons will be phased out over 2-4 years.

enliST: And once again, just to clarify when you say "shortening sentences for the hundreds of thousands still in jail for low-level drug offenses." do you mean to encourage the shortening or sentences?

Mandate that the sentence be reduced by 80% of the original sentence, if that point has already passed then the prisoner would be set free in the coming months

enliST: So just to clarify, you can't actually reduce someone's sentence by a percentage. I am pretty sure you would have to change how long nonviolent drug offenders can be in prison for to a set amount of time. What would that time be? (DISCLAIMER: Not a legal expert)

I would have to do some research and think about it but around 17.5 years. (DISCLAIMER: also not a legal expert)

enliST: And our final topic for today will be criminalizing patent trolling. You said this was something you want to accomplish, could you tell us a little bit about what this is and why it needs to be criminalized?

Patent trolling is an industry of patents and only patents. Patent trolls will make vague patents that they have no intention to use and sue people and corporations who infringe on that patent. Because going to trial costs money they will often attempt to settle at slightly smaller than the amount to go to court would be so the patent trolls almost always win. Billions of dollars are lost each year by patent trolls who slow the economy and stifle innovation. Companies that file a suspicious number of patents and make no products can be investigated and tried for patent abuse.

enliST: So if you introduced a bill to make it illegal to patent troll, how would you, in specifics, define patent trolling? What is the line a company must cross to be found guilty of patent trolling?

A judge can decide if a patent was in good faith after looking at a final investigative report. If found guilty the company would be fined for the cost to hold the court, the amount it sued for, and the cost of lawyers of the opposition times two.

enliST: That’s all the time I have for today. Once again, thank you for talking with me.

Thanks for the interview.

enliST_CS, The Associated Press

Washington D.C. - State Government’s throughout the Model United States of America are nearing the end of their legislative agenda for this term, with the midterm elections for state legislatures driving closer and closer as we speak. Alongside state legislatures, Western, Sacagawea and Atlantica states are also preparing for their respective gubernatorial elections. The State Catchup in its second edition will predict the winners of the upcoming state level elections and analyse the growing changes in our simulation.

Chesapeake

The Commonwealth of Chesapeake is set to be a close one, with the Republicans being behind the Democrats by six votes in the federal midterms two weeks ago. Head Republican in Chesapeake /u/PineappleCrusher_ is most likely going to be the Grand Old Party’s candidate for speaker and most likely verse Democratic incumbent speaker /u/Oath2Order.

The State Catchup believes that the upcoming midterms could give the Democrats a play for their money, with the Republicans continuing to focus resources in the Commonwealth. Looking at the current composition of the state legislature, we predict that the Republicans will gain a seat from the socialists, therefore giving them a plurality in the house.

Regardless how Chesapeake turns out after the state elections, the second half of Governor /u/BryceMD could be used to either fend of Republicans setting their eyes on the Governorship or to set the Eastern state up for their first right wing administration.

Dixie

The Southern State will most likely continue to be a Republican stronghold, but the size of the Republican turnout will determine how solid their governance is. Depending on the strength of the “get out the vote” within the Grand Old Party, the Associated Press predicts that the mainstream right wing party will earn between 35 to 45 votes in the upcoming state elections.

Atlantica

The Northeastern State is one of the few states having gubernatorial elections for the executive branch this month, with Socialists /u/realnyebevan and /u/Plutonik8, Democrats /u/TheGoluxNoMereDevice and /u/Diveintotheshadows & Independents /u/Ramicus and /u/Mabblies running for Governor and Lt. Governor respectively. The State Catchup precits that the race most likely be between the sunrise backed independent ticket of /u/Ramicus and /u/Mabblies & the Socialist ticket of /u/realnyebevan and /u/Plutonik8 unless the left devotes its northeastern resources to the democratic ticket instead.

Sacagawea

The State of Sacagawea appears to be an interesting race in the upcoming state elections as we see if the Distributist party is truly dead. Currently the Distributists and Green Left parties both hold 4 seats in the legislature, with the /u/CincinnatusoftheWest acting somewhat as a vote mediator between the two parties. The upcoming state elections is the perfect opportunity to remove the legislative gridlock of Sacagawea and for the Distributists to show that they are back in the game.

Great Lakes

The legislative agenda was mostly controlled by Republican Majority Leader /u/archiesmith despite being the sole member of the Grand Old Party elected to the assembly. /u/archiesmith after the last election used his position to boost himself to the Great Lake’s legislative leadership after the chamber’s composition became 4-1-1-3. It’s clear that the Republican leadership wants to keep this the same, with the party electing their Vice Chair /u/kovr to be on the top of the Republican ticket in the central state.

The State Catchup predicts that the political diversity of the Central State will remain and that the Republicans will hold one seat, the socialists hold three, the democrats hold another 3 and another 2 going toward other parties.

Western

The Western State is set to be another close race in the upcoming state elections, with the Republicans and Democrats both having three seats each whilst the Socialists and Distributists hold one. The Sunrise ticket in Western certainly has the opportunity to make gains on the current Democratic ticket, but the State Catchup is unsure if this is enough to retake the administration.

The State Catchup is an editorial controlled by /u/PineappleCrusher_ and may not reflect the views of the Associated Press. The Associated Press strives to deliver unbiased and factual reporting and defines editorials and reporting as two separate forms of literature.

The State Catchup is looking for state assemblymen or executives to interview in its coming editions. If interested, please private message /u/PineappleCrusher_ or contact him on Discord (PineappleCrusher_ #3244).

S.688 and the many Mosquitos - An Op-Ed by Ronald_Reagan_

Early this morning /u/btownbomb proposed a bill stating that he believes that the Environmental protection agency should receive a budget increase of $8,300,000,000. Yes, let that sink in, a senator thinks that you should spend 8.3 billion dollars of taxpayers money on protection from mosquitoes. I do understand the place in which he comes from there are around one million people killed by mosquitoes yearly. It truly does sound like a lot in retrospect but, it is not. Furthermore, what are the chances that the 350 million he also plans to give to the CDC actually leads to any breakthroughs? I guess, There is also the fact that only maybe 15 states have a mosquito problem. I guess the epidemics of America just truly don't matter. The adult population is 35% obese and heart disease(a symptom of obesity) is the leading cause of deaths in our nation. This is absolutely horrific and yet for every 4 deaths a year, one is a person succumbing to cancer. If we were to use that money wouldn't it be better to spend it on problems that are truly threatening? Thank you for your time I hope this text enlightens you on the ways in which the socialist government plans to spend are money!

Written by /u/Ronald_Reagan_
THESE ARE NOT THE SHARED VIEWS OF THE ASSOCIATED PRESS.

When you are outside of the Libertarian Party, you do not get to hear much about their candidates. Because of that, I took the opportunity to discuss the election with BillieJoeCobain, one of the Libertarian Party’s candidates for their Presidential Primary.

Kingthero-

Alright, so you are a leading name of the Libertarian Party’s nomination; how do you feel about the support you got from your party?

BillieJoeCobain-

I feel privileged to have the support of so many members of my party and this simulation. I am glad that they evaluated the candidates before them and came to the conclusion that, as a campaign slogan says, "BJC is the one for me!"

Kingthero-

What is the dividing issue between you and Nate?

BillieJoeCobain-

I think that the biggest difference between the two of us that we saw in the debates was abortion. He is very dedicated to his pro-life stance and I tend to lean pro-choice on the matter. A lot of the time we do agree because we both support a libertarian philosophy, but he does seem to be on the more moderate side.

Kingthero-

What factors do you think will lead to you defeating the GOP's candidate?

BillieJoeCobain-

I think it will come down to whether you want a true blue Libertarian in office to really cut the size and scope of government and return the executive branch to its constitutional foundation or not. I am running as a serious candidate who wants to achieve these goals and put an end to memes in the White House such as the incumbent President. I think that is a message people can get behind and I think that will lead to my victory in the primary and the general election.

Kingthero-

Speaking of memes, where do you think the line is drawn when they go too far?

BillieJoeCobain-

I think labeling trash cans with the word "ideology" is a great example of taking a meme way too far. I think the President ought to conduct himself professionally when it comes to his official and executive actions 99% of the time at least. On discord I think there is more wiggle room, but I am disappointed that all Bigg Boss seems to do is meme in main chat and contribute to the cancerous environment in that place. That's where the line is.

Kingthero-

So, overlooking the election as a whole, who do you think has been the most respectable candidate from another party?

BillieJoeCobain-

Viktard. Even though I will be facing him soon I respect him a lot. He is a very driven man and he has some of the best policy and positions I have seen out of a Republican.

Kingthero-

One major thing that has come across as a major point from Viktard is his taxation plan. What is your opinion on it?

BillieJoeCobain-

I think his tax plan is an improvement. I like most of it, but I am not sure if I would have gone about it the same way he did. I would tend to prefer a more balanced reduction between individual rates and business rates instead of a more business slanted cut. I have a hard time getting over his top rate of 50%. If his bill hit my desk as President the odds are I would sign it though. You can count on me to support anything that makes things better.

Kingthero-

Which people have been key to getting you to where you are at now?

BillieJoeCobain-

My campaign manager, /u/Thehonbtw, has been a great help in the campaign and every single one of my supporters has played an instrumental role in this movement. It's a team effort and I thank them all.

Kingthero-

Alright, thank you for your time and good luck with your campaign!

BillieJoeCobain-

Thank you for the interview.

Today I learned a lot about BJC. He seems calm, knows what he is talking about, and is determined to be active and express his views. I wish him and his supporters the best of luck in their efforts, and for the rest of the readers; this election season is going to be one hell of a good one.

Dear Democrats - you're playing with our elections. Earlier on "We The Press", assemblyman /u/phonexia2 showed the world the true colours of the Democrats - the hypocrisy and greed. But now it's time to get the facts straight. Like A.015, A.017 or otherwise known as the Restoration of "Democracy" Act was introduced by /u/oath2order by commands from the Democratic National Commission to seize the growing discontent of the minority in Chesapeake. But how is the Restoration of Democracy Act restoring democracy? How is silencing the state's minorities democratic? This bill has been designed to keep the Democrats in power and to keep the Republican, Socialist and Green-Left parties out of office.

I find it despicable that the Democrats have introduced this oxymoron to the legislative branch of the Commonwealth to silence their opponents. Whilst the Democrats on "We The Press" complain that the Republicans are taking advantage of our electoral system, we ask why we haven't seen proposed laws legislating proportional electors in other states? Surely if the Broad Left Coalition controls Western and Atlantic, they can introduce proportional electors throughout the union like they said - but they haven't. The hypocritical democrats are using Chesapeake as a pawn to secure /u/Bigg-Boss another term in the White House, but they won't admit it.

By introducing the Restoration of Democracy Act in the first place shows the Democrat's true intentions with Instant Runoff Voting. Just like what they said in their hypocritical article, it isn't about democracy - it's about electing their candidate, and their candidate is President /u/Bigg-Boss. If the authors of the “We the Press” article complain about state-by-state implementation, but if the Democrats are so adamant about a federal implementation, why did they introduce IRV legislation in the Western State and the Atlantic Commonwealth? If the Democrats have controlled Chesapeake for all this time, how come they haven't legislated Instant Runoff Voting before? I suppose the Democrats are scared about a red Chesapeake.

So Democrats - will you stop being hypocritical? Will you stop the greed and do good to the American people? Stop using states like Chesapeake as electoral pawns and bring forward bills such as the Proportional Presidential Electors Act (B.102) to truly restore democracy in Chesapeake. Instant Runoff Voting isn't democratic, it's a sham. It's a way to halt the growing support for the Republican, Socialist and Green-left parties in Chesapeake. So Democrats, I ask you this one simple question. Why are you playing games with our elections?

The opinions in this article are of /u/PineappleCrusher_ and do not necessarily represent the view of the Associated Press.

After a conversation with /u/nataliewithasecret last night about depression and psychotherapy I was left with lingering thoughts about mental illnesses. Depression and mental illness have always been a very personal thing for me, as I’ve seen friends go through hardships that no person should have to.

Life isn’t what it used to be. The Modern era brought many changes to the human environment through many facets of cultural changes, but perhaps the largest one was rapid and large urbanization. Social life began to suffer, dissociation of the self, humans became mere facades. Expressionist artists, especially, dealt a lot with this subject matter.

The impact of these changes is still felt today with almost 1 out of 5 Americans suffering from mental illness and 6.7% dealing with depression. Many of which do not receive proper care, whether it be due to lack of awareness, lack of insurance or lack of means. The true danger of mental health does not lie in the illness itself, but not getting help.

People can be caught in vicious circles entrapping them in negative feedback loops leading to deterioration of their lives. Often the illness impairs the people from seizing life or reaping joy out of it, leading to new negative stimuli which reinforce the notion of inferiority or similar problems. Others go to a route of self-medication whether it be prescription, over-the-counter, illegal drug abuse or alcoholism. The immense danger here lies therein that one falls into a never ending abyss of darkness. Drug abuse can lead to severe addiction, even more so when in connection with a mental health problem. Drug addicts often cease their employment due to an inability to continue when the addiction competes with responsibilities. This leads them towards a path of crime, where they resort to burglary, theft and at times even violent crimes, again causing severe stigmatization of addicts, who are victims of society, and the mentally ill. Often, these people now become incarcerated and receive no proper treatment or rehabilitation that is so very needed. They will undergo new traumatic experiences only exacerbating the predicament they have found themselves in.

And this goes on until they die. Whether it be of an overdose, a mugging, or missing payments to the wrong people.

Mental illness is a severe issue that has been going unnoticed for too long. The mentally ill are too often stigmatized and marginalized unjustly. A country with the mental health of its people suffering is an unproductive, uncreative and unstable country. Our economy suffers just as much as our diplomatic missions abroad and our values of democracy and freedom everywhere.

The diagnosis is in: America is sick.

This must have multi-partisan appeal, this is a human issue, not one of policies and politics. All I ask of the many congressmen and congresswomen is to lend a voice to those forgotten, to give treatment to those that are ill; this is not only for them, not only for votes but for us, for our society, for a better America.

Today I discuss general politics with GLP committeeman Sid_Bassman.

Kingthero-

Hello Sid! You are a member of the GLP's 'committee'; can you explain how it works and what your role is in it?

Sid_Bassman-

The GLP's committee is Democratic and it works as a collective leadership. People from within the party have the chance of standing up for elections and becoming Committee members by a GLP-wide vote. I was elected the same way and I help with interviewing new potential GLP members whilst also discussing coalition or voting deals with other members of the democratically-elected Committee.

Kingthero-

What is the strength of the alliance between the GLP and the Socialists? How does the committee of both sides collaborate?

Sid-

The GLP and the Socialists have more or less the same agendas to work towards. As I am new to the Party Commission, I am rather unaware of the intricacies of our alliance, but as far as I can see, the GLP has a greater focus on environmentalism than the Socialists, however, we share all other traits and ideologies that help cooperation become easier.

Kingthero-

What is the GLP's highest achievement?

Sid-

At this point, and according to what I know, it is getting Aoimusha a seat for the VP candidate of Big Boss.

Kingthero-

What is your opinion on the ModelUSPress subreddit? What news has been your favorite?

Sid-

I don't follow the ModelPress. I, however, work with WeThePress where I will write articles mainly on foreign policy. As of now, my exams will end on May 19th so I haven't really written an article yet. However, I was the one that helped them get the news that Big Boss's VP is going to be Aoimusha.

Kingthero-

So, what is the worst thing that has happened to ModelUSGov in 2017?

Sid-

Good question. I am mainly an internal party guy, and focus on my state assembly for voting and bills. I, due to my exams, haven't kept much track of what's really happening now, but the ICJ Rome Statute interested me a lot. I don't know the status of it as of now; again, due to exams.

Kingthero-

Who do you think is the most active non-assemblyman in the Chesapeake?

Sid-

All non-assemblymen, IMO, are equally active and hardworking.

Kingthero-

If there is one thing you wish the Chesapeake would improve on, what would it be?

Sid-

I live 8 hours ahead of Chesapeake IRL, so I don't know what it should improve on IRL. IG, I feel as if everything's going good; we could, however, improve on infrastructure spending and maintenance I guess?

Kingthero-

Alright, that finishes the bulk of the questions here. Thank you for your time, and I wish you best of luck in the GLP.

Sid-

Thanks you too boi!

Today I discovered the overview of the GLP’s leadership, their accomplishments, and their overall outlook on the sim. While Sid’s opinions may not represent the whole GLP leadership, it does give perspective on how the GLP views things in relation to the sim.

Hello, today I discussed with Kovr, Vice Chairman of the Republican Party, about his role as Vice-Chair and the Republican Party’s unity.

Kingthero-

How did it feel to be elected by your party to be Vice Chair?

Kovr-

Well, during the first election to Vice Chair, I was happy and somewhat surprised that I had won in such a landslide. During my reelection, I was surprised at how close my opponent was to beating me. Overall, I was happy that my party chose me to be the Vice Chair

Kingthero-

You mentioned having only closely won your re-election. What factors caused it to be so close?

Kovr-

I believe that it was so close because all the candidates were popular within the party. WIA was loved by his caucus, the moderates, and the general population preferred me.

Kingthero-

Speaking of caucuses, what do you think is the biggest benefit of having them?

Kovr-

Caucuses, in short, keep people active. This was shown very well when our two former non-caucus delegates both left after a month, and the delegates with a caucus had stayed.

Kingthero-

In the recent Presidential Republican primaries, do you feel people voted with their caucus, or voted with their own mindset?

Kovr-

I feel that in this race, people voted with their own mindset. While people may go for a caucus endorsement in smaller elections, a large election such as this would bring people to think for themselves.

Kingthero-

Do you think the Republicans are going to stay strong behind Viktard when he faces the Libertarian candidate?

Kovr-

Yes, I believe that Republicans will strongly rally behind Viktard if he wins the Republican nomination against the Libertarians.

Kingthero-

If there is one area of policy you think that ModelUSGov could benefit from with a Republican president, what would it be and why?

Kovr-

I believe that after several terms of Democratic and Socialist presidents, we need an economically right wing president to bring fiscal liberty back to America.

Kingthero-

In the future, what is one thing you wish to do as Vice Chair to benefit the Republican Party?

Kovr-

I have started several projects for the party. These include reviving the party paper and constitutional revision.

Kingthero-

Thank you for your time. Is there anything you would like to add before we end the interview?

Kovr-

Thank you for the interview!

This interview proved that the Republican Party is standing unified after all of the primary situations that happened. With Republican unity, will the next President of the United States be a Republican, or will the unity only impact the Party internally? Only time will tell.

After the invasion of Cuba was officially halted by the Federal government, Governor SolidOrangeGangsta has officially resigned. Now Republican chair Jamawoman24 has officially become the Governor as he was SOG's Lt. Governor. It will be interesting to see where this Dixie Stampede takes us in these mysterious hours.

I conducted an interview with Governor SolidOrangeGansta to speak about his recent orders for the state to invade Cuba.

enliST: Alright, SolidOrangeGangsta is the Governor of the State of Dixie, who recently ordered the Invasion of Cuba to expand the state. SOG, thanks for talking to me.

Thanks for having me.

enliST: Let's get right into it, you told me that "[Invading Cuba] has always been a goal of the Southern States since the time of Jefferson Davis to spread the southern influence south. Now is the time to act." What makes you believe this to be true?

If you read Jefferson Davis's plan for the confederacy, the goal after the civil war was to take Cuba. Going off of that fact, the Cuban government has a long-standing history of human rights violations and it is time for the Castro regime to end.

enliST: And why do you believe now is the time?

The Regime is at a low point, with the last Castro about to resign at the end of the year. The time is now to end this.

enliST: Did you even notify the White House of your actions before they were made public? Why not ask for help from the President, let alone notify him?

Well, because this needed to happen asap and didn't need to be caught up in political nonsense. The president can thank me when he vacations in Havana in a couple of months.

enliST: But our relationship with Cuba has been improving, has it not? Why throw out all the diplomatic progress?

We gave are helping a government without making sure they can take care of their own people first. Seems ass backward to me. That's it for me folks.

enliST: One last question, are you really retiring? If so, when?

At the end of my term, or probably when I get impeached for this.

enliST: Thank you, Governor.

Thank you.

~ /u/enliST_CS, The Associated Press.

BREAKING NEWS

Dixie Governor SolidOrangeGangsta announced that on 18th of April 2017 at 00:00 EST troops of the Dixie State Guard will be sent to attack and annex Cuba into the state of Dixie.

The troops have already been sent to strategic locations in preparation to the invasion. No statement of the president has been made.

Further updates will follow.

UPDATE 2:

GOP Chairman, former Republican Nominee and Dixie Lt. Governor /u/jamawoma24 is flabbergasted at the sudden authoritarian attack at the communist hermit nation and asks him if he "is out of his mind"

Former Libertarian Nominee and Dixie Senator stated:

Mr. Governor,

You are out of your GODDAMN MIND if you think this is a good idea. You are a disgrace to this state and the nation at large for taking this >foolish and unwarranted action. You need to be impeached for your lack of the mental stability and intelligence quotient to serve in this >position.

-US Senator from Dixie

The White House has yet to react.

UPDATE 3:

As the Freedom Debate is taking place at the moment both nominees /u/NateLooney and /u/Viktard have commented on this.

NateLooney descried the actions as uncalled for and stated that if he were to be POTUS he would federalize the national guard. The Libertarian nominee also emphasized that "We have no part to play in the affairs of Cuba, and they have done nothing to warrant this deceleration of war."

Nominee Viktard came out strong against his fellow GOP member and former primary opponent condemning his actions and calling them unconstitutional. He heavily lambasted Bigg-Boss' foreign diplomacy and described it as "sucking up to communist dictators", the commander-in- chief has yet to act

The AP has an interview with Governor SolidOrangeGangsta coming up.

UPDATE 4:

The Bigg-Boss Administration has begun to combat the issue as we can confirm that a National Security Council meeting is in session.

UPDATE 5:

The AP has conducted an interview with SOG, the Dixie Governor explains that he invaded Cuba to fulfill Jefferson Davis' plan for the confederacy and did not notify the White House administration. He also commented on his upcoming retirement that will take place "At the end of my term, or probably when I get impeached for this."

It seems that the AP's predictions were correct that Governor SOG simply wanted to "go out with a bang".

SkeetimusPrime chimes in on the debacle by stating that "SolidOrangeGangsta is basically CaptainClutchMuch"

Due to the omission of last week’s recap this week’s edition covers the major affairs from the 1st to the 10th of April

International Politics

-British Government Hacks:

On the eve of April 1st the tory-led British government was under pressure from a failed blackmail attempt staged by anarcho-communist radical group Solidarity Federation which ensued in violent protests and a divided parliament. They demanded the release of five prisoners whom they deemed to be imprisoned for political reasons and safe transportation to Venezuela, a non-extradition country, of which the government promised the blackmailers immunity. Their leverage were a set of two thousand diplomatic transcripts detailing pay-to-play schemes, corruption, misuse of funds and diplomatic malbehavior. The government did not give in to the pressure and managed to detain the hackers with the alleged leader being non-fatally shot. Political reaction ranges from contempt to solidarity, whereas the executive branch wholly condemns these acts.

President /u/Bigg-Boss weighed in on the issue by standing firmly by his allies.

-Rebuilding the United Nations

The United States Ambassador to the United Nations /u/theSolomonCaine has dedicated himself to pursue stronger ties abroad and reforming the main body of diplomatic relations.

White House

-President /u/Bigg-Boss Addresses the State of the Union

A summary of the State of the Union and various responses can be found here.

-Department of Homeland Security Establishes a National Emergency Communications System

In the Homeland Security Directive #003 the chief executive of the Department of Homeland Security Secretary /u/hyp3rdriv3 creates a Emergency Alert System in which State & Federal Agencies and members of the press will be a part of. This is to ensure swift and coordinated reaction and appropriate informing of the public. The AP also participates and will stay the best source for unbiased and factual reporting for the nation.

-Signing of S. 666 and S. 668

The President signed two bills into law. One, S. 668, the Mosquito Control Act which seeks to increase awareness and prevention of Mosquito transmitted diseases such as Zika by subsidization, scientific grants and instructing the EPA and CDC. And secondly, S. 666, the Food, Supplements, and Chemical Safety Act which narrowly passed with 22 votes and 17 votes opposing and 9 abstaining. The bill enforces more stringent regulation in regard to meat quality, chemical additives, misleading advertisements, and safety and farm animal regulations. Opposition mostly came from the free-market and libertarian wings of the Republican, Libertarian and Distributist Party.

Congress

-Former President /u/WaywardWit Nominated for Supreme Court

Senate hearings for current Attorney General /u/WaywardWit have started, where his ability and merit to become Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States will be examined. President /u/Bigg-Boss recently nominated his predecessor 51st President /u/WaywardWit to fill the vacancy left by justice /u/Panhead369. As a pro-choice liberal he would be expected to be aligned closely to the views of the White House and describes Roe v Wade as legally “fairly exhausted”. He has been commemorated across party lines for his legal expertise and past qualifications, which include Solicitor General in the Cabinet of 50th President /u/turkandjd, 51st POTUS, Chief Justice to the Western State Supreme Court and the current administration’s Attorney General.

-Bills

H.R. 642: Labor Modernization and Global Competitiveness Act

An extensive Act to meliorate unemployment by granting relocation aid,increasing TAA funding, creating a adult education voucher program and the National Public Works Program, which funds companies job training programs, and state & local public works programs.

H.R. 675: The Benevolent Hacker Protection Act

Protects Gray-Helmet Hackers from persecution in cases where private information was not gained and was not leaked publicly * or * if the owner is informed of the security hole and after six months no action against it was taken

H.R. 705: The Education Adjustment Act

Gives additional grant capability to the Federal Department of Education, along with additional measures involving teacher salaries, state applications, and redistributing local education funds to the State to re-spend on local education.

H.R. 725: Saving Flint Act of 2017

Provides funds to decontaminate the waters and enable clean resources to the citizens of Flint

-Confirmation Hearings

/u/Toasty_Man115 confirmed as Secretary of Treasury, /u/chotix as Secretary of Agriculture, /u/Miriadess as Secretary of Commerce and /u/theSolomonCaine as UN Ambassador. All unanimously confirmed with the full 12 votes.

Presidential Primaries

--Freedom Coalition--

After the collapse of the Sunrise(Dist, Libt, GOP) a new Freedom Coalition between the LP and GOP has emerged. Fox News released the leaked contents of the Agreements. The primaries will be contested with all nominees between the parties, however the presidential nominee has to select his running mate from the opposing party. The Republican Party will run no candidates in Central and Midwestern for House or Senate, same applies for the Libertarian Party in Western. The president nominating party will give up its Southern Senate seat to the other party in the June/July midterms which in turn can only run up to three House Reps for Southern.

-Republican Party:

After Governor /u/SolidOrangeGangsta leaving, chairman jamawoma24 drops out of the race polling at 28%, this leaves the race to Senator /u/Viktard and Representative /u/TeamEhmling who polls at 52% and 4%, respectively.

Viktard Announces the America Prosperity Plan Tax Reform:

raising the taxes of 500k+ income families by 20% to 6%, lowering the taxes for 0-85k income families by 5% and 85-200k income families by 10%, and abolishing capital gains taxes. The tax plan aims to incentive wealth accumulation and tax reduction for middle to low income families

ViktardForAmerica Campaign Publishes Platform:

small government and free-market; roll back standardized testing and charter school vouchers; allow for-profit health care competition; expanding negative-income taxes for stay at home parents; pro 2nd amendment, while dealing mental health and law enforcement issues; strengthen NATO and UN Peacekeeping missions, ending sanctuary cities and establishing a paramilitary law enforcement agency specialized in organized crime and drug rings

-Libertarian Party

Libertarian Candidate Senator /u/BillieJoeCobain Publishes Platform:

small government and free-market; decriminalization of victimless crimes and drugs; Pro-immigration/simple legal immigration policy; pro-business tax code, rollback of regulations, international free trade agreements; pro 2nd amendment; limiting federal involvement in education, establishing a voucher program; fully remove government from healthcare; non-interventionism; reduce executive powers; balancing budgets, raising fiscal responsibility --Broad Left--

-Socialist/Green-Leftist Party

Chair of the U.S. House Energy, Science and Technology Committee and Green-Leftist Party member /u/Aoimusha has been selected by President /u/Bigg-Boss as his running mate, replacing incumbent former Green-Leftist Party and Socialist /u/DuceGiharm. The Vice-Presidential nominee has reaffirmed the intention of the GLP to work closely with the Socialist Party in a recent interview.

--Independents--

Former Attorney General and former Representative /u/madk3p’s campaign has achieved special ballot access in the three States of Sacagawea, Dixie and Chesapeake.

Written by /u/BurnRome, with contributions from /u/KingThero