Austerain Intl Times- GLADSTONE WINS, AUSTERAIN VOTE ON SLU

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Austerain International Times

THORNE REVEALS DETAILS OF MILITARY PLANS AND PRO-RIGHTS STANCE AT RALLY

President James Thorne held his first rally as president today in the city of Sundester, the capital of the Province of Ericsson in southern mainland Austerain. The event took place at the Dean Arena, where over 20,000 were in attendance (particularly servicewomen and servicemen from nearby military installations). In his speech, he provided more details on his agenda for the military,

"As the Commander-in-Chief and leader of this great nation of ours, it is not only my responsibility to ensure that the lives of all of our citizens are protected but it is also my responsibility to ensure that the civil rights and liberties of our people are preserved. We do not need to get ourselves evolved with the conflicts of countries far away with boots and lives on the ground. The security of our nation starts here at home, and the dedication of the servicewomen and the servicemen that protect our people ought to be commended.

This is why I am proposing a 20% reduction in the military budget by closing down unnecessary military bases abroad, reducing the amount of armed forces in service, and ordering the intelligence agencies to cease their underhanded surveillance of innocent civilians. Those in service that are willing to be honorably discharged will be offered benefits such as funding for tuition, advanced health care, and retirement benefits. Those within the workforce age will be offered to participate in retraining programs to return to the civilian workforce in a reasonable field of their desire. Our efforts to closing down military bases abroad will take a period of 4 years, and the bases will be converted to affordable housing for the native populations and given to their respective governments. And as for our efforts to rolling back mass surveillance, such actions by a government infringe upon the right to privacy on the Austeren people, and will no longer be tolerated. When we surrender our rights and liberties over to the government in the name of security, it is a slippery slope towards authoritarian tendencies to undermine due process and rule of law. That is why I am asking Progressive Democratic members of Congress to pass legislation that would make it illegal for any government agency in the future to institute mass surveillance on the population without probable cause or a warrant. In the meantime, I will be issuing an executive order to cease all mass surveillance activity. We will however be expanding security at airports and seaports to prevent other terrorists from unleashing chaos and violence on our cities. The Naval Armada and Air Force is monitoring the seas and skies of Austerain, and we have capabilities in place to prevent any nation from launching a nuclear weapon at us.

This is a government that works for you, and a government that will commit itself to protecting your rights in the present and the future- while keeping the country secure from threats."

Liberals, Progressive Democrats, and Nationalist Islanders alike are praising Thorne's plan for transition for members of the armed services and his civil libertarian stance, although the leader of the Progressive Conservatives Governor Williams of Ericsson said he was "concerned" over the consequences of "diminishing our strength abroad and rolling back our efforts to find terrorists online".

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Austerain International Times

POLLS SIGNAL END OF THORNE'S HONEYMOON

After enjoying a 73% average approval rating since his inauguration in early August, President Thorne's approval ratings have declined to dramatically to 56 in lieu of the dirty bomb attacks in Austraton and what many within his own party consider to be a complete "flip-flip" on his tough stance against monarchy in SLU. We interviewed citizens in the streets of Austraton to see what they think about the President,

"I like President Thorne and I don't blame him for the dirty bomb attack, as that was the fault of the previous administration for not taking the necessary security precautions," said Mary Fantine, a restaurant owner in the Nicolis Business District, "However, I think that he has betrayed those who voted for him by softening his position on monarchies in the Social Liberal Union. He said it himself that monarchies have no place in the Union and that they're not even progressive as the Union's Constitution! Now he wants friendly terms and to help them? No no no, I don't like this one bit. Mr. President, do what we voted you in to do! End the plague of monarchy!"

"Yeah, I'm disappointed with the President," said contractor Jack Sterhorn, " Of course I like everything that he is proposing to Congress but he promised us that he would fight against these undemocratic institutions and against political expediency. Now here he is kowtowing to them for political expediency. Those damn Paguioans murdered our ambassador and our Deputy Secretary of State, and nearly killed our Secretary of State. Why should we maintain friendly accord with people that hate us? Especially when they're so brainwashed into adoring a monarch!"

In a press conference, Speaker of Congress Giulia (PDP-Southern Romana) said that she was also "disappointed in the President's reversal on expelling royalist nations from the Union" and that she will "continue to urge the President and her colleagues in Congress to take a more active stance against the plague of monarchy in the region."

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ADMINISTRATION UNVEILS NEW POLICY FOR UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN SLU

Secretary of Education Ashton Scott with President Thorne and Secretary of State Lacroix standing beside him today announced that students from Austerain would no longer be permitted to attend universities in nations that retain a monarch,

"The President and the rest of the Administration are concerned that students that attend universities in such nations will have their minds poisoned by indoctrination for the adulation for monarchy that many people in these nations have. The last thing we want is to have students that return to Austerain believing monarchy to be a better form of government and revive the bloody royalist movements of the past to restore an oppressive and inequitable monarchy that we abolish over a century ago. Students from nations with monarchies will not be allowed to enroll and attend universities in Austerain as well. This is a strong stance to prevent the misguided monarchic ideology from entering Austerain's shores. Students from other SLU nations that retain representative democracies and parliamentary democracies shall continue to be able to attend Austeren universities tuition-free."

Before this announcement, President Thorne issued a moratorium on students to attending an international university in the Paguio Empire, saying in a similar statement that he was "concerned over the indoctrination of adulation for monarchy that could poison the minds of young Austerens, especially given the uncertainty of Emperor Jimin's stances on the Empire's relations with Austerain and domestic institutional reform." This was in response to the Paguio Empire's recent announcement that they were opening an international university called the SLU Global Imperial Academy open tuition-free to all students from around SLU, after which many Austeren experts and legislators began to pressure the President to prevent Austeren students from attending. Many believe this decision by the President to be in response to his declining approval ratings, which caught many of the President's closest sources by surprise, according to one source. So far, the reception on all sides of the aisle in Congress has been positive.

[Austerain]

Austerain International Times

HEATED EXCHANGE IN SENATE AS CONSERVATIVES PRESSURE THORNE TO INTERVENE

Many international relations experts have been worryingly paying close attention to the civil war in the Empire of Modern Progressive States. The violent conflict has piqued the concern of the Progressive Conservatives and some moderate Liberals in Congress. On the floor of the Grand Senate during a debate over Thorne's proposed military cuts, Minority Coalition Leader Grand Senator Daniel Arzano (South Worcester) took the podium alongside Liberal Grand Senator Nicolo Piloni (Eastern Auradon), where they had a heated exchange with the Grand Senate Majority Leader,

"Madam President, honorable gentlemen and gentlewomen of this house,

I speak before you today alongside the Honorable Gentleman from Eastern Auradon to bring the attention of you all to violent events that have occurred over the past few weeks in one of our SLU allies. Over the past few weeks, there has been tremendous bloodshed in the Empire of Modern Progressive States as they endure a devastating civil war against separatists known as the Empire of Modern Conservative States. EMPS has had to fight against these forces alone so far, and while there have been victories, many experts see a closing window of the conflict ending any time soon. In previous Administrations, Austerain has always committed itself to coming to the aid of its allies in their time of need. It seems to me, Madam President, that President Thorne has chosen to abandon our allies in their time of need... he is undermining our credibility to be capable of helping our allies militarily. He has done this in the name of peace, afraid of Austerain quote 'getting itself involved with unnecessary foreign wars'.... and I realize that he is hesitant about helping another nation that still retains a monarchy. But this is a fallacy. By not intervening in assistance to our allies, he has made our allies resort to fighting their own battles and has isolated Austerain's military power from the rest of the world. With reports of these separatists obtaining nuclear missiles, I dare say that he has left Austerain's own security at risk, especially since he is rolling back our military.
Mr. President, members from across the aisle, I implore you to come to the aid of EMPS in their hour of need."

Senate Majority Leader Grand Senator Barbara Giulia (PDP- Southern Romana), who is also the Speaker of Congress during joint sessions, took the podium as quickly as the PCP and Liberal Senators sat back down and defended the President, "Madam President, it appears to me that the Honorable Gentlemen from Eastern Auradon and South Worcester have only been listening to half-truths! A resounding metaphor reflecting his party's neoliberal stance since the last Administration. [laughter from PDP-NIP benches] My colleagues, first of all, the Administration already announced 10 days ago that they had offered Special Forces to help train their soldiers against the separatists. Secondly, the Secretary of Defense has said that the OLDIE-P systems have been activated and are on standby to disrupt any launch of nuclear weapons by the separatists. My fellow party colleagues will remember that we were vehemently against the former decision, though we are supportive of the latter means of deterrence and/or prevention of any nuke reaching our airspace. The President has been excessively trying to please the wants of everyone- leave him alone on this. The cuts to the military are pragmatic and they are sensible. There will not be a significant decline in our military might, as we hardly use the overseas military bases in question."

Grand Senator Piloni stood quickly and shouted at Giulia, "He's weakening our military!"

Giulia held her hands help as Vice President Healey (who presides over the Grand Senate, called for order, "Mr. Piloni! I strongly advise you to control your tongue, you are the most incorrigible hooligan at times. [Piloni tries to shout something] Silence. The gentleman from Eastern Auradon is finished and he can take it from me that he's finished. The honorable gentlewoman from Southern Romana can be seated as well."

Piloni's outburst and the cooperation with Progressive Conservatives by Liberals still loyal to former President Versace indicates that the Liberal Party is beginning to shift to the center closer to PCP. There are rumors circulating that more left-wing Liberals such as Labor and Commerce Secretary Andrew Price and Hyacinth Governor Owen McCord are considering switching their allegiances to the Progressive Democratic Party after the governor's chief of staff reportedly said that "the post-Versacean Liberal Party has turned its back on Asherean progressivism".

After the Vice President's remarks at Piloni, Twitter in Austerain has been blowing up with trending hashtags such as "#IncorrigibleHooligan", "#HonestHealey", "#CongressionalClapback", "#GuilefulGiulia". Governor Williams (PCP- Ericsson) said that the Vice President's response to Piloni's outburst was "inappropriate as presiding officer". When asked about Piloni's outburst, the spokesman for the President said that Giulia "said what needed to be said in response to the opposition's baseless analysis of the President's proposed cuts".

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Austerain International Times

FORMER PRESIDENT VERSACE SLAMS THORNE IN HER FIRST INTERVIEW

In her first interview since leaving office, former President Sarah Versace had her first interview with Good Morning Austerain. GMA host Jim Howard asked Versace what she honestly thought about the new President and his agenda so far,

Jim Howard: "Madam President, obviously during the campaign, you and President Thorne had many disagreements. What do you think of him and his presidency so far?"

Sarah Versace: "You know Jim, there's a longstanding unspoken rule that former Grand Chancellors (in the recent case, former presidents) should not attack their successors. With that in mind, I'll say is that he's a good and decent man, and the people obviously love him. I do disagree with his tone sometimes and I dislike how he tries to be this tough-talking, strong-armed guy sometimes. He's not very diplomatic... I'll just leave it at that."

JH: "Are you concerned about his proposed military cuts and the country's credibility with our allies?"

SV: "Very concerned. Those military bases we have abroad are our first line of defense and our first line of response should anyone attack us or our allies. As blunt as Senator Piloni was a few days ago when he said that the President is weakening our military, he's absolutely right. How can our allies rely on us when our capabilities are weakened and we can't respond as quickly? The Vice President was wrong to shout him down by calling him an 'incorrigible hooligan', as if the Grand Senate is the British House of Commons or something. If anything, the President should be expanding the military and our surveillance capabilities, and assisting our allies like EMPS, no matter if he agrees with their form of government or not."

JH: "Strong words from a former president about the current president's agenda. What are your thoughts on former Secretary O'Brennen meeting with the President of NIW?"

SV: "Stephen looked presidential when he met President Floyd. It's a shame that it wasn't under more official circumstances. President Thorne hasn't even announced his first foreign trip yet."

JH: "Yes, when the Palace spokesperson was asked about that, they said that the President quote 'wants to focus on the issues here at home that were neglected under the last administration. Visiting our allies must come second,' unquote."

SV: "For someone who doesn't want to visit our allies yet, he sure has no problem tweeting about them. I have no comment about his remark about my administration. He needs to reassure our allies by reaffirming our military commitments and trade deals. That is vital to the economic prosperity and security of not just the Union, but for the businesses and people of Austerain. He's the head of state, and it's his job to do so."

JH: "How do you think the Liberal Party can recover? What is the future for you?"

SV: "I would urge my former colleagues to oppose the President's agenda every step of the way alongside the Progressive Conservatives. Keep the President accountable and win some seats back in the next elections by offering a better solution. I plan to remain politically active and to publish my book 'What Befell' about my time in office and alongside former Chancellor Asher. I'll be enjoying my semi-retirement, while also making occasional visits to Austraton to meet with Liberal Party officials and candidates."

Despite her earlier response of former leaders not criticizing their successors, Versace seems to distrust the President and has gone as far as urging her party to oppose the President's agenda. Her candid book "What Befell" is set to be released December 2017. She will be touring the country, and plans to visit NIW to see her old friend the newly minted Ambassador to NIW Angelina Asher, former First Lady.

[Austerain]

Austerain International Times

THORNE: COLLINS' ACTIONS "UNDERMINED OUR SOVEREIGNTY"

After reports revealed that Taoiseach Edward Collins of New Ireland and Wales had ordered an operation on Corsicane Island near the Province of Springvale within sovereign Austeren borders, a grim-faced President Thorne held a special informal press conference to answer many unanswered question revolving around the communications between the Austeren and NIW governments during his visit to Sardinia this morning (which was later than originally scheduled for last night).

James Thorne: "Good morning, everyone, thank you all for being here. I called this press conference today in order to answer your questions revolving around NIW's operation to capture former President George Frank on Corsicane Island. I hope my response will clear the air on many of the confusions circulating around it. Now for questions- err, Ms. Perry."

The President points to a young woman near the front, "Kimberly Perry, RTE News. Mr. President, did the Taoiseach call you at any time before or after the operation?"

Thorne gives a slight sigh, "No, I was not in contact with the Taoiseach or any official from the NIW government at any time around the duration of the operation. From my understanding, Governor Forli of Springvale gave permission, which she was not authorized to do. I have high respect for Mr. Collins, but his claim that he called me was false, and seeking permission from the provincial governor for an operation without being in direct contact with myself or the Departments of State and Defense is a outright breach in protocol and dangerously close to a violation of sovereignty. My National Security Adviser had to interrupt a meeting with Governor McCord in order to inform me that there were unauthorized foreign troops within our maritime borders. We repeatedly reached out to NIW military officials for an explanation to a situation that could have easily devolved into a conflict, yet we did not know the purpose of the operation until the Taoiseach's public press conference. Our own military officials were monitoring the operation at the time through video feed from an armed drone, and I declined to authorize a military strike on the foreign forces. I'm glad I didn't. You."

He points to a man in the back, "Alexander Paul, National Ireland News. Do you agree that Collins is another liberal idiot who seeks to impose his retarded one world order on the world? Do you think this proves that?"

Laughter erupts around the room as Thorne gives him a confused look that is amused all the same as he looks to his left at the press secretary, "Who gave this mustybrained piccaninny press credentials? Get him out of here." The room continues laughing as the President's Security Service grabs Paul by the arm and shoves him out the door. "A real question this time, please," Thorne says as he points to another Irish reporter,

"Maya Salling, Belfast Telegraph. Would you have given permission if the Taoiseach or any government official in NIW if a call had been made?"

"Thank you for your serious question, Ms. Salling," Thorne says, "If the NIW government would have reached out, authorization would have been granted with the help of Austeren forces, given that the George Frank came here in our sovereign borders and directly violated the sanctions against him passed by Congress in January. By going ahead with their operation without our authorization, they have undermined our sovereignty and threatened the peace and cooperation that former Grand Chancellor Asher and their former Foreign Affairs and Trade Secretary Cox died for as they were building our ties. You."

Thorne points to an older man to his left, "Jacob Rhodes, Austerain International Times. Mr. President, where will you go from here? Are ties between NIW and Austerain officially freezing?"

"Myself, the Secretary of State, and Secretary of Defense will be holding a video conference with Taoiseach Collins and President Floyd today to communicate our concerns and to make sure that this doesn't happen again in the future. Our relationship is strained, but despite this transgression, will not turn out back on our friends after what it cost both of our nations to achieve this special relationship. We are glad that Frank was finally captured, but we are not at all pleased by the negligence by which this was handled. That is all, thank you."

President Thorne's words have been the strongest and only criticism that he has ever said of Taoiseach Collins, whom of which he is describe as "ideologically synced" with. In Dublin, Austerain's ambassador to NIW Angelina Asher reported requested a meeting with the Taoiseach at the request of the President before the Taoiseach's press conference in order to get more information before it was public, a request that was likely denied. Protesters have gathered outside NIW's embassy in Austraton to protest the Taoiseach's "disregard for sovereignty" and for "lying to the people of NIW to save face", according to the organizers. Some Progressive Conservatives in Congress along with Nationalist Islanders from Springvale are now calling for a repeal of the agreement negotiated between the two countries earlier this year.

[Austerain]

Austerain International Times

MILITARY REFORMS PASS CONGRESS

After weeks of debate in the Grand Senate and House of Delegates, the Omnibus Defense Reform Act has passed the three houses of Congress by a margin of 103-37. Here were the votes by each house:

House of Governors	Grand Senate	House of Delegates	Total Congressional Votes
6-4	19-11	78-22	103-37

With some Liberals in the Senate and Delegates voting in favor of the ODRA, it's a clear indication that some in the progressive wing of the Liberal Party want to work with the Thorne Administration and the Progressive Democrats on the issues that the progressive faction shares with them. Liberal Senate leader Piloni (Eastern Auradon), who was reprimanded by the Vice President last week over his outburst during a debate over the military cuts and is among the Liberals still loyal to Versace, said in a press conference that he was "disappointed that Congress has decided to pass these sweeping measures to weaken Austerain's military resolve and capabilities abroad", and vowed to fight for a repeal. PDP Senate Majority Leader Barbara Giulia (Southern Romana) and NIP Senate Coalition Leader Gerard Aveline (Northern Springvale) issued a joint statement expressing "how pride [they] are to successfully help the President achieve his goals to not only save the taxpayers money, but to better protect their rights as citizens and help our veterans reintegrate into society".

The passage of this legislation comes as a major victory for President James Thorne, further solidifying his mandate with Congress and his party's effectiveness to pass legislation. Many thought that the House of Governors would reject the legislation completely since there are no Progressive Democratic Governors (until the gubernatorial elections next year), but the bill sailed through with the votes of the 6 Liberal Governors in the House. Many believe that Governor Owen McCord of Hyacinth will switch his allegiance from the Liberals to the Progressive Democrats, as he is the most progressive governor out of the rest. Now that the ODRA has passed Congress, it goes to President Thorne's desk to pass into law. Once law, the legislation will reduce the military budget by 15% (rather than the proposed 20% at first, it was trimmed down in the Delegates' Budget Committee), close down half of Austerain's military bases abroad, expand benefits for those in service, and offer programs to retrain those in the military into the Austeren workforce. ODRA also orders the intelligence agencies to stop all mass surveillance of Austeren citizens without a warrant or probable cause.

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Meanwhile, protesters remain in the streets of Austraton in front of the NIW embassy and the Palace of Auster to protest NIW's illegal operation on Corsicane Island within Austeren maritime borders to capture their former President George Frank, who was sanctioned by Congress earlier this year after it was revealed that he ordered NIW intelligence to spy on the late former Grand Chancellor Asher. President Thorne called it "a breach of sovereignty" and "a threat to peace and cooperation". While some in Congress are calling for a repeal of the bilateral trade and defense agreement that Austerain has with NIW, it is rumored that Thorne plans to make a visit to NIW himself to meet with Taoiseach Collins and President Floyd.

[Austerain]

Austerain International Times

THORNE SIGNS LANDMARK DEFENSE BILL

President James Thorne returned to Palace of Auster in Austraton today to sign his landmark Omnibus Defense Reform Act into law after it passed the three houses of Congress by 103-37 majority. After signing the bill, he gave brief remarks to the press,

"The passage of this bill signals the first building block of a new age for Austerain, an age in which we demilitarize our society into a more peaceful one, a society in which the government can focus its efforts on protecting the liberties and welfare of its constituents rather than faraway wars. This act will be the first to usher in a new age of economic growth, happiness, and prosperity for all. Together, we have given a clear message to the Austeren people that their government is functioning to work for them, not just the few, and that Congress has given me the mandate to carry out my agenda for the people. The next on our agenda will be to pass a new budget and tax code with our economic reforms, and to draw out a trade deal with nations such Hirematia.

As for the recent illegal operation by NIW, I have decided to send Secretary of State Lacroix to New Ireland and Wales to speak to Taoiseach Collins and President Floyd. She will be joined by Ambassador Angelina Asher and Deputy Secretary of Defense Major General George Hurley. We're going to make sure that this doesn't happen again, and that communications between Austerain and NIW remain open and transparent."

With his ambitious momentum underway, this is the moment that James Thorne became President.

[Austerain]

Austerain International Times

MOST AUSTERENS UNHAPPY WITH NIW

After weeks of tension between Austerain and New Ireland and Wales from Taoiseach Collins' decision to conduct what President Thorne described as an "illegal operation that undermined Austerain's sovereignty", Austerain International Times has released its polling data on how Austerans feel about maintaining ties with NIW:

Happy With NIW Ties	Dissatisfied With NIW Ties	Don't Know
28%	67%	5%

Keep Agreement	Dissolve Agreement	Unsure
46%	53%	1%

** AIT sampled 10,000 respondents **

While an extraordinary 67% of respondents are dissatisfied with Austerain's relationship with NIW, only 53% want to go as far as dissolving the bilateral agreement altogether, which was passed under the late former Grand Chancellor Giorgio before his violent assassination earlier this year.

Secretary of State Lacroix and Deputy Secretary of Defense Major General Hurley are in Dublin to meet with Taoiseach Collins and President Floyd at the Government Buildings to discuss the illegal operation and the state of Austeren-NIW ties. Recently, the Opposition Leader Malaki Duncan has come under fire after shooting at an Austeren flag during a pro-gun rally in NIW and burning it, adding that he "wanted to shoot that little woman in the face" referring to Secretary of State Lacroix, further saying, "I wonder what her husband thinks". Former NIW President Theodore Edwards described Duncan as a "horrible and senile man" as Taoiseach tweeted that Duncan's "sexist comments... have no place in NIW" and reassured the Austeren Government that "he does not represent NIW in any way, shape, or form". President Thorne released a tweet that Duncan's comments are "meant to incite tension" between the already-strained ties of Austerain and NIW, urging Austerens that they "musn't let him divide us". Thorne also tweeted in response to the shooting of the Austeren flag, giving Duncan the nickname "Mental Malaki" and promising that "he will see fire and fury from [Deputy Secretary of Defense] Hurley that NS has never seen". Sources familiar with the meeting between Lacroix and Collins report that Duncan barged into their meeting demanding to sit in, to which Collins dismissed him and called him a "spoiled little brat".

Our reporters interviewed people in the streets of Austraton to understand how they feel about the recent events around icy tensions and fiery insults between the two countries. One tourist from Sardinia, Debra Wolsey, told us, "All of this is just awful, just awful. We need members of Congress up there in that fancy palace of theirs to do something about this if the President isn't doing anything other than tweeting insults. All this negative energy between our countries is unhealthy, but by my understanding, only a small percentage of people in NIW vote for that misogynist Opposition Leader and his party. They should just just ban him from visiting Austerain since he hates us so much!"

Another tourist from Pinth, John Vitali, was more upset, "President Thorne came into office promising that he'd be tougher than Vicious Versace, and I think he should be tougher against NIW and Mental Malaki! There ungrateful Irish and Welsh people need what's coming at them- a complete and total ban on trade and travel between NIW and Austerain. That will show them. President Thorne needed to put his foot down when they violated our sovereignty, now he needs to do it again after they burned our flag and insulted our darling top diplomat."

Austeren markets have not reacted well with the recent tensions. AUSDAQ dropped 98 points after Thorne released his statement on NIW's illegal operation, and it dropped another 112 points after the calls for a repeal of Austerain's trade agreement with NIW gained steam among members of Congress.

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Austerain International Times

AUSTEREN JETS BUZZ PAGUIOAN EMPEROR'S AIRCRAFT

After reports came out that Austeren jets intercepted the aircraft of the new Emperor of the Paguio Empire Jimin I as a show of force from President Thorne, the Department of Defense has issued a rare statement explaining the encounter:

"At approximately 19:45 SLU International Time, three Eurofighter Typhoons from the Austeren Air Armada encountered Imperial A380, the aircraft of Emperor Jimin I of the Paguio Empire, on its flight path towards the Empire of Modern Progressive States to monitor the activities of the separatist so-called Empire of Modern Conservative States amidst the civil war. After passing Imperial A380, a single jet turned around to intercept A380 at approximately 450 feet from the aircraft's port wingtip at the same speed for 10 minutes to identify the aircraft and its nation of origin. Reports from certain Austeren media outlets that the intercept was to "send a message" from the President to the new Paguioan Emperor are grossly false. After confirming the aircraft's identity and origin, the fighter jet proceeded to rejoin the other two in the scheduled flight path towards EMPS."

News circulated around Austeren social media speculating that President Thorne finally wanted to show the people that he was still serious about his opposition against monarchy in the region, despite softening his stance and putting the issue to rest in several speeches. His approval ratings dipped last month after respondents felt that he had "flip flopped" on his tough stance against monarchy, and many felt that in order to reassure his voters, he ordered Austeren jets to buzz by the Emperor to send His Highness and the Austeren people a message. However, the Department of Defense is disputing these claims and President Thorne even went as far as posting this ominous tweet from his official Twitter handle @presausterain, "If I wanted to send a message, the Emperor's aircraft would never land." When asked about whether the jets were armed, the Department of Defense had no comment.

President Thorne recently ordered a rare intervention after reports of WMDs in the separatist state EMCS for airstrikes on production facilities. It is not yet clear how members of his own party feel about the move.

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Austerain International Times

INTERVIEW WITH PRESIDENT THORNE

Today we sat down with President James Thorne to discuss the latest in his domestic policies and on the latest events around the SLU. Our political correspondent Sofia Morgan reports from the Executive Wing of the Palace of Auster with the President


Sofia Morgan: "Good afternoon, Mr. President. Thank you for taking the time to sit down for an interview today, I understand that you're very busy."

President James Thorne: "Good afternoon, I'm very happy sit down with you today."

SM: "The pleasure is all mine. Now, let's get started with what's been happening around SLU lately, since this seems to be on everyone's mind. As you know, there has been a lot of conflict between EMPS and EMCS, with other state actors around SLU getting involved. With the recent security concerns in EMPS and other nations, do you think Austerain should be concerned? Should we get more involved?"

JT: "I understand that many people have been wondering what we've been doing in response, and I'm happy to answer. As you already know, we've deployed 2,000 peacekeeping troops to the Demilitarized Zone between EMPS and EMCS, including an additional 500 to EMPS' capital to help the keep the peace, which has been difficult given the civil unrest. The State Department has quietly pulled out our diplomats and staff from our embassy in the capital and from the Paguio Empire with their safety in mind. I understand that the Emperor was injured, and is in recovery after an attack on their capitol building. My well wishes are with him and the families of those affected during this tumultuous time. When it comes to our own security, we have increased the presence of police and military around significant areas of Austraton and other major cities, and we have our naval fleets monitoring Austerain's maritime borders."

SM: "There are those who say, Mr. President, that by sending troops to EMPS to help, that you are reversing your stance on non-intervention and your anti-monarchist stance. What is your response to those allegations?"

JT: [chuckles] "I would reject those allegations. I understand the concern over what might be seen as a reversal, but it's circumstantial, really. As the President of a nation that holds the delegacy of the region, my duty is to protect the security of the Union from unstable regimes and to protect liberal values. While I dislike that EMPS is now an empire with supposed democratic elements, the enemy that they are facing takes a bigger precedence. EMCS is an unstable illegal regime that hates everything the rest of the SLU stands for, and if weapons of mass destruction became available to this regime, it would pose a direct threat to Austerain and the rest of the Union. That is why I decided to deploy troops, but only for peacekeeping purposes. We have to protect our progressive states and ideals when they are directly threatened. As of now, EMPS isn't a primary threat to such. At any rate, we've expressed interest in joining the Grand Workers' Commune's Council of Anti-Imperialism and Anti-Monarchism as a coalition of SLU state actors against the evils of imperialism and authoritarian monarchism in the Union."

SM: "Speaking of monarchies, what are your thoughts of Paguioan media calling your comments on Azula as 'dishonorable and cowardly', as well as Emperor Jimin's alleged remarks that you're 'acting like a child who throws tantrums to get what he wants'? Can you expand on your statement in the press conference on what you meant by having Austerain's support if Azula ever wanted it?"

JT: "The boy Emperor is the last person that has room to call anyone a child. Polls have consistently shown that most Austerens and many fellow leaders around SLU want to see monarchy expelled from the Union, so I'm merely a vessel for what the people want. Of course, if the Paguioan people themselves are happy with what they have, who am I to get directly involved with changing it? But I do have the right and the responsibility to let the flaws of monarchy be known for SLUans and Paguioans to consider, and they cannot allow themselves to be brainwashed by the superficial pageantry and rhetoric of their elite. When it comes to my remarks about the Emperor, I stand by what I said. The boy is too young to lead a nation, to command its military, and to deal with the difficulties of national politics. He is easy to be manipulated and influenced by the politicians around him that seek to expand their influence, power, and wealth, and that sort of thing breeds corruption. I am strictly non-intervention when it comes to many issues, but a boy in power (that just started public high school) whose only mandate is his birthright might be unstable in the long run. His generals and politicians could depose of him at any time if they wanted to do so, and he commands very little respect from other SLU leaders. Since women tend to mature faster and are better at decision-making than most men, Princess Azula or the Prime Minister as an elder would be much more effective as the leader. I would send resources and support to either of them if they needed it to form a strong and stable leadership. If they're going to have an autocrat at the top, it might as well be someone who is capable of commanding the respect and skills needed for a leader, while respecting the existing democratic elements."

SM: "Strong remarks. Now briefly on to domestic policy before we run out of time. After your landmark defense reforms were passed, you mentioned that the next items on your agenda consisted of a new tax code and the next budget. How is the progress with those?"

JT: "As you know, Sofia, I've been busy meeting with groups of members of Congress and economic experts to form the budget and tax code. Our budget will increase spending towards civil rights efforts in the Justice Department, updated textbooks and more teachers for our K-12 education system to promote smaller class sizes and better performing schools, increased funding towards our college-for-all initiative in scholarships and grants, increased funding towards EITC and our re-employment training programs, clean energy programs and subsidies, and more. Taxes will be lowered for those earning up to $60,000 while taxes will be increased by staggered brackets for those earning between $300,000 to $1 million+; and we will be implementing the regulation and taxation of the multitrillion dollar derivatives market, closing tax loopholes, and on carbon use. More details on the figures and content will be released next week when we introduce the legislation to the House of Delegates' Appropriations and Budgeting Committee."

SM: "We look forward to seeing those details, Mr. President. That's all the time we have, thank you very much for taking the time to be with us."

JT: "It was my pleasure."

SM: "This is Sofia Morgan from Austerain International Times, reporting from the Palace of Auster in Austraton."

[Austerain]

Austerain International Times

THORNE ADDRESSES LARGE PACKED STADIUM

This is Sofia Morgan reporting live from Strasguard Stadium here in Auradon, where we are awaiting President James Thorne to take the stage to deliver a speech before a crowd of PDP supporters. Stadium officials are reporting that over 65,000 people have packed into and outside the stadium, 5,000 over the expected 60,000, so large screens have been set up outside the venue for the crowds to watch. Vice President Healey is now addressing the crowd and introducing the President.

"... now I have the pleasure to introduce to you... James Thorne, the President of Austerain!" Healey says. The crowds erupt in cheers and applause as President Thorne walks out on the stage to take his place at the podium. As he tries to speak, the crowds continue to cheer.

"Thank you... thank you... alright let's settle down... thank you very much," Thorne manages to quiet down the crowds and begins his speech,

"My fellow Austerens,

We are living in one of the most prosperous times in our history. Unemployment is low, wages are beginning to rise once again, and our economy is booming. My Administration is doing whatever means necessary to ensure that the fruits of our prosperity flow down back to your own coffers, and to continue to grip onto the prosperity that our nation has been blessed with. I would like to thank the Vice President and the rest of my Cabinet for the excellent work that they have done so far to implement this progressive agenda. [applause]

However, my fellow Austerens, we have to be careful. Within our so-called Social 'Liberal' Union, there are nations within the Union that have autocratic tendencies with unelected monarchs that are unaccountable to the people. There are some with 'constitutional monarchies' that say they have democratic aspects, but in truth, it is contrary to the principles of liberalism and progressivism for one individual to hold a high public office with no mandate from the people. Let me be clear: if you have a system of government in which a young boy with no military skill or political expertise can be appointed to a high office with a mandate that relies solely on birthright, that is a system of government that breeds corruption from selfish interests of other political leaders, instability, and leaves the door open for tyranny. I was troubled to hear reports from our intelligence agencies that the Emperor of the Paguio Empire may be dissolving their so-called Imperial Parliament, the only governing institution within that country that is accountable to and representing the Paguioan people. Such decisions ought to not be left to those whose only mandate is the luck of birth, especially those with little experience in proper governance and little competence to lead. What is frightening is that this boy has no one to stop him from doing what he wants. There is no institution that can limit the powers of an Emperor. In order to grant legitimacy to a government to control the governed, it must be able to govern itself and must rely on the consent of the governed. A government with no regular mandate of the governed is insurance against despots and ignorant tyrants who seek to suppress the liberty of their people. When that government does not earn the regular consent of the governed, it becomes the right of the governed to abolish the institutions or those in power that have either become destructive to the mandate, or too incompetent to lead.

[thunderous applause]

Ladies and gentlemen, such nations do not belong in a Union that upholds progressive and democratic values, with rule of law and checks and balances. I call upon the true progressive nations of this Union to establish a Steel Curtain between ourselves and the nations that grip desperately to an outdated and archaic form of government with a Coalition of Progressive States. We must cut our ties from nations that do not align with the values of the Union's Constitution, and preserve the fruits of this blessed Union to the nations that do uphold the progressive values that protect our people.

[loud applause]

A steel curtain must descend upon our Union to unite those of us who preserve and defend the inviolable values of freedom, equality, democracy, and rule of law as defined by the Union's Constitution. We cannot be truly united under these principles as long as there are nations that choose to govern themselves by contrary principles. To paraphrase from Sir Winston Churchill, the safety of this Union requires a new unity under the banner of democracy and liberty, from which no nation should be permanently outcast. [applause]

Only then may our Union truly be a Union for social democratic progressive values. I urge fellow like-minded nations to join us as we begin the process of severing economic and military ties from autocratic and monarchic nations that pester our Union.

Austerain will continue to remain prosperous as we make use of our hegemony to lead the effort towards a Union that is on the same accord when it comes to our commitment to liberty and rule of law.
This coalition will fulfill the progressive principles that bind us together, and we will lead the concept that good governance relies upon the regular consent of the people, not by the luck of birth. We are many, they are few! Thank you."

As Thorne concludes, the crowds stand in loud applause and cheers, and begin chanting, "WE ARE MANY! THEY ARE FEW!"

That was President Thorne delivering a powerful speech announcing an international initiative to place what he called a "steel curtain" between the democratic nations of SLU and those with autocrats and monarchs, with a fiery explanation of governance that offers listeners a glimpse of Thorne's former career in academia as a professor. We see President Thorne standing by Vice President Healey shoulder to shoulder as Austerain's national anthem begins to play, with the crowd joining in to sing.

[Austerain]

Austerain International Times

THORNE ASSASSINATED, CONGRESS HOLDS EMERGENCY SESSION

BREAKING- Austerain International Times is saddened to report the death of President James Thorne, Vice President Catherine Healey, Secretary of State Anna Lacroix, and Speaker of Congress Barbara Giulia, who were attacked at the Austraton Opera Hall tonight by two gunmen during the 40th annual National Variety Performance.

According to video captured by witnesses during the attack, Speaker Giulia was the first to be shot from behind upon the men entering the box. President Thorne and Secretary Lacroix were seen trying to block the gunmen and to beat the semi-automatic weapons from their hands while the President’s service agents rushed towards the box to try to apprehend them. The remaining three were shot by an array of stray bullets during the scuffle, along with agents and members of the audience in nearby box seats and across the hall. The gunmen were heard yelling, “FOR KING AND COUNTRY” and “DEATH TO DEMOCRACY” before being shot by Service agents. The Speaker and President were dead on the site, while Secretary Lacroix and Vice President Healey passed away en route to the hospital.

It is not yet clear how the gunmen were able to get into the Presidential Box through security, but the casualties from the shooting have reached over 24 due to stray bullets, not including the four Austeren politicians.

The Deputy Speaker of Congress, Grand Senator Gerard Aveline (NIP-Northern Springvale), has called for an emergency session, since all of those in the presidential line of succession except the Deputy Majority Leader (Deputy Speaker) as defined by law were killed in the attack, and Aveline has refused to serve as President. Congress is now discussing a resolution to select the new President. Names being considered are former Secretary of Law and Justice Stephen O’Brennen, who campaigned as the Liberal Presidential Nominee against Thorne in the last election, Delegate Henry Winthrop (Pinth; Chairman of PDP), Deputy NIP Chairman Delegate Andrew Carndeau, Governor Gregory Williams (Party Leader of PCP), and Defense Secetary Julia Warner.

Congress passed an unanimous emergency resolution to allow Secretary of Law and Justice George Ashcraft to exercise the duties of acting President until Congress can choose a new one. After reports came out of what the gunmen yelled after killing Thorne, the Chairman of the Progressive Democratic Party Congressman Henry Winthrop said in a statement that "President Thorne is now a martyr to the cause. The next President will have to avenge him".

[Austerain]

Austerain International Times

CARNDEAU SWORN IN, ADDRESSES NATION

BREAKING- We are live at the Palace of Auster Joint Assembly Room where Congressman Andrew Carndeau is about to be sworn in as the third President of Austerain after National Congress voted to appoint Carndeau as the next President this morning by a margin of 102-38, with former Secretary of Law and Justice Stephen O'Brennen receiving the latter votes. The ceremony is now starting.

A hush falls over the crowd of members of Congress, Cabinet members, press, and members of the public in the Joint Assembly Room as the Sergeant-at-Arms calls out, Mr. Speaker! The next President of the Federal Republic of Austerain!

The great oak doors of the hall burst open as Andrew Carndeau walks down the center aisle as the national anthem plays. He approaches the four caskets covered with the Austeren and SLU flags in front of the dais, and pauses to look down in respect to the fallen. Speaker Aveline clears his throat and reads,

"Let the record show that number of congressional votes for President of Austerain in this emergency session is 140, of which a majority is 80; and that the majority of popular votes is 51%. Andrew Carndeau of the Province of Springvale has received for President of Austerain 103 electoral votes. Stephen O’Brennen of the Province of Austra has received 38 electoral votes. We do hereby certify that Andrew Carndeau from the Province of Springvale has been duly elected as the President of Austerain, the next term of which shall begin on the 26th of October, 2017, and shall be entered on the journals of the House of Governors, the Grand Senate, and the House of Delegates. Mr. Carndeau, please approach the podium to take your oath."

Carndeau steps up to the podium, where a copy of the Constitutional Charter is laid out in front of him. The Speaker steps down from the Speaker's Seat and stands next to him.

"Repeat after me," Aveline says, "'I, Andrew Carndeau, do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the Federal Republic of Austerain,”

“I, Andrew Dubois Carndeau,” he repeats, “do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the Federal Republic of Austerain,”

“...And will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitutional Charter of Austerain,” Aveline continues.

Carndeau repeats, “And will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitutional Charter of Austerain."

Aveline shakes Carndeau's hand and returns to his Seat, "Congratulations, Mr. President." The hall resounds in restrained applause as the sun shines between the black drapes into the great room.

Carndeau clears his throat and begins his address,

"Mr. Speaker, Members of Congress, my fellow Austerens,

I stand here conscious of the tremendous responsibility that you have entrusted to me. After the tragic and violent loss of President Thorne, Vice President Healey, Secretary Lacroix, and Speaker Lacroix, we must heal together as a nation bonded by the values that have always united us- the common banner of equality, liberty, democracy, and public service- a banner under which all four of our fallen spent their lives and careers raising as the standard.

The individuals that conducted this evil attack against our leaders and our people sought to further divide us by ideology, to further divide the blessed Union by abusing the strong principles that Thorne fought so vigorously to promote to our allies. As blunt and hardheaded as he was, President Thorne's intention was never to cause war and violent division within what he called our 'blessed Union'. He fought so hard to promote democratic-republican values and liberty because he wanted to better unite the Union under common forms of government that did not contradict the progressive and liberal values that all in the Union share. The best unity, he reasoned, was the unity of governments and the unity of the will of the people. Today we honor the efforts of himself and the three other dedicated public servants we lost in their ambition to do so. We will honor the four in a joint state funeral that will take place next week with a procession from here to the National Basilica, in which all leaders from the Social Liberal Union are invited, including Emperor Jimin I.

As Mr. Ashcraft has said, now is not the time for further division within our Union, but this is the time in which we must all heal together under a common standard. This is why Austerain is withdrawing from its former initiative to aggressively combat monarchies with sanctions, but we will, with the help of our democratic allies, offer substantial economic packages to nations that successfully and fully transition into full democratic-republics. We will not isolate countries with monarchies that choose not to change, and we will continue our existing diplomatic and trade ties with them. We will, however, continue our freeze on relations on rogue fully autocratic states such as Auze and EMCS that seek to poison and destroy the blessings of liberty from hands of their people...

As President, my top priority will be to determine the groups responsible for these unnecessary deaths, and to make sure that they pay the price for their involvement within the bounds of equal protection, due process, and rule of law, which we value for all people in progressive democratic societies such as ours. With Defense Secretary Julia Warner also serving as my Vice President, we will ensure that Austerain is kept safe from threats foreign and domestic, and to retain many of President Thorne's goals for the preservation of rights and liberties from the tyranny of government, economic prosperity, and social justice for all of our people... [applause] and we will seek to expand representation by increasing the number of seats within these hallowed chambers of Congress in time for the next snap election, which will be called immediately after the expansion amendment is ratified for a fresh election with fresh mandates.

We need only to unite under the progressive values that we have in common rather than the minor differences that divide us. Only then can we truly call ourselves a Union. Only then can we consider ourselves that shining city to set the example for others to follow. Our days of healing have just begun, so let us rise together in healing to honor President Thorne's legacy.

As President Thorne said on the day of his inauguration, the state of our nation will strengthen as the people are strengthen. The government of the powerful is no more. The government of the people, by the people, for the people is restored. This is a government that works for you. You are many, they are few! [audience chants the last part and applauds0

Thank you all, god bless Austerain and may our blessed Union continue to be so." [applause]

As Carndeau steps down from the dais, he kisses each casket as he heads down the aisle shaking hands.

[Austerain]

Austerain International Times

CARNDEAU CRACKS DOWN

BREAKING- The political climate in Austerain has been tumultuous in recent times, still reeling from the assassinations of President Thorne and other high ranking officials in the government. The Chairman of the Progressive Conservative Party, Grand Senator Daniel Arzano, was sacked just days ago after openly calling for the restoration of Austerain's monarchy (which was abolished in 1793); the ruling Nationalist Islanders' Party has been taking more hardline nationalism after pushing for 'Austerain First' policy and adopting a resolution to leave the Social Liberal Union into their party manifesto at their Fall 2017 Conference in Strasguard, the former which President Carndeau has embraced, yet he has called the latter "reckless".

Now after a disturbing video was revealed to all SLU nations showing that the bruised and abused Emperor of the Paguio Empire has been overthrown by his uncle, who also apparently killed Princess Azula (whom of which the late President Thorne offered 'assistance if she ever needed it'), we have received reports from close sources that President Carndeau has ordered NIP congressional leadership to halt debate on the constitutional amendment to expand the number of congressional seats and has told Congress that no further elections will be held "until future notice". Furthermore, the Department of Defense has announced that naval and aerial forces are being mobilized "in response to recent tensions within the Union... to ensure that Austerain remains secure from foreign threats". The President has also issued three executive orders tonight- the first order is an enforced nationwide curfew "in order to maintain public safety", the second order is a travel ban on international flights "to prevent foreign agitators from entering Austerain", and the third order is an instruction to the State Department to halt processing of citizenship applications and to begin deportations of "immigrants of interest". The President, in capacity as leader of the Nationalist Islanders' Party, ordered the Fall 2017 Conference adjourned after the Austerleave resolution vote and is on his way to the Palace of Auster back in Austraton under militarized security.

Crowds have been gathering outside the Palace of Auster in response, one side demanding answers for the recent crackdowns and the other side celebrating the overthrowing of Emperor Jimin. The Secretary of Domestic Security has ordered troops to disperse the crowds for violating the curfew.

The Progressive Democratic Party is set to hold its Fall 2017 Conference in Pinth, where they will elect their new party leader and chairman. Sources familiar with the process say that they will challenge Carndeau's place as President and his recent orders, and hold another vote for president to replace Carndeau with their own leader since PDP is actually the largest party (but has been left without a head after the deaths of its leaders, leaving their coalition partners NIP to fill the vacuum) in Congress.

[Austerain]

Austerain International Times

GLADSTONE ELECTED PDP LEADER

BREAKING- Grand Senator Claire Gladstone has been elected as the new party leader over the Progressive Democratic Party at their Fall conference in Pinth. The 53 year old is married to the Liberal former Secretary of Law and Justice Stephen O'Brennen, and was a key ally with Asher in championing LGBT and women's rights. In her first speech to the conference in Pinth Arena, she called for the impeachment of the President of Austerain:

"My fellow Progressive Democrats, this is a troubling time for not only our party since he formed a governing coalition with the Nationalist Islanders', but this is a crucial moment for our country. We have seen the responses of countries such as Harndon to the unconstitutional actions of President Carndeau in his recent executive orders... Carndeau's executive orders contradict the progressive democratic values that both our parties share- or at least used to share- and has jumped off the cliff towards full-fledged nationalism. The authoritarian reversal that Carndeau has taken is harmful to our country and our image to our allies. This is why that when I return to Congress tomorrow, I will call upon my colleagues to consider the impeachment of President Carndeau for his unconstitutional abuse of powers that violate the rights of the people. Austerain cannot have a despot at the helm of our country- our leader must be a shining beacon and example to the countries in our Union that still retain their archaic royalist traditions. Let us demonstrate to them the successful advantages of checks and balances by holding Carndeau and Warner accountable for their actions. [Domestic Security Secretary] Navarro, Carndeau, and Warner must be removed from office and imprisoned for their complicity in violating the civil rights and liberties of our people that we hold dear. And any Nationalist Islanders' members of Congress that vote against the impeachment or no confidence vote will be held accountable by ballot for the next elections."

President Carndeau's approval ratings have plummeted to 29%, the lowest approval rating in recent political history; and Edward Collins, Taoiseach of NIW, has issued sanctions and a suspension of diplomatic relations with Austerain until Carndeau steps down or "steps back" from his recent actions. In response, President Carndeau ordered NIW diplomats to leave Austerain by midnight tonight, else they would face imprisonment, a blatant violation of diplomatic immunity. Ambassador to NIW Angelina Asher issued a statement expressing her "disappointment with the policies of the current President" and warned the President that he should "stop while he is ahead or else sacrifice Austerain's credibility as a champion for liberal democratic principles".

Other congressional leaders from the Liberal Party and Progressive Conservative Party have joined with Progressive Democrats in supporting the impeachment and no confidence in Carndeau and Warner. If the vote succeeds, Congress will pass a concurrent act for a referendum in public opinion will be held to increase the number of congressional seats and to formally remove the President and Vice President; if both indicate public support for the removal and the constitutional amendment, there will be snap elections to elect a new President and a larger Congress.

[Austerain]

Austerain International Times

CONGRESS IMPEACHES CARNDEAU, GLADSTONE ASCENDS PRESIDENCY

After a long dramatic night in the National Congress for an emergency overnight session, National Congress has voted 127-13 to impeach and hold no confidence in President Carndeau and Vice President Warner in response to their unconstitutional executive orders that instituted a nationwide curfew, travel bans, a halt on citizenship processing, and deportation of immigrants.

The episode began after Grand Senator Gladstone was elected leader of the Progressive Democrats, who then threatened to pull out of the PDP-NIP coalition if the Speaker did not call for a mandatory overnight joint session. The NIP Speaker of Congress reluctantly agreed, and ordered all Members of Congress and President Carndeau to attend the session. Senator Gladstone and other members of Congress began with opening statements calling for Carndeau and Warner's impeachment right in front of him. After Gladstone finished her remarks, Carndeau took the podium to defend his actions by claiming that the purpose of the executive orders was to "keep Austerain safe from foreign threats amid regional instability".

The room lit in uproar- PCP Grand Senator Arzano shouted, "You lie", and Grand Senator Gladstone retorted, "Austerain’s liberties are already in danger by your actions, Mr. President" with laughter from her colleagues.

After Carndeau took his seat again, a pro-Carndeau NIP Senator started a brawl with several anti-Carndeau Delegates from different parties, all of whom the Speaker expelled from the chamber until the vote.

The Progressive Democrats and Liberals were not the only ones calling for the impeachment of Carndeau. The Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party, Governor Gregory Williams of Ericsson took the lectern to join in with the chorus, pointing at the glum President and shouting, "this man poses a direct threat to Austerens' civil rights and of Austerain's image. You do not need to be liberal to see him for what he is- a despot." After Williams, Liberal Governor Owen McCord of Hyacinth, a close friend to the late Grand Chancellor Giorgio Asher, called Carndeau a "faux progressive" and said that Asher "would be ashamed to see how poorly and abusive the President has governed.”

After Governor McCord's remarks, Carndeau stormed the dais, took a microphone, and pointed at several members of Congress, including Gladstone and the Speaker, shouting “All of you sons of b*****s are traitors to the nation by trying to coup me. I will have you all charged for this."
Gladstone stood up and responded, "“The only place where President Carndeau and Vice President Warner belong is prison, not in positions of power. We cannot allow people in power to abuse the rights of the governed. You, sir, are a traitor to the people and to your oath of office! Have you no shame?"

After the tense exchange, Speaker Aveline ordered a 10 minute recess. During the recess, Carndeau told press in the public lobby that he "ought to use my prerogative to dissolve this Congress and suspend elections," adding that Congress and Gladstone are "trying to carry out a coup d’etat for power”. Former President Versace, who has been working as Anaaxes' Special Ambassador-at-large for Peace since her resignation, was seen in the chamber greeting Liberal members of Congress, which led some to think that she might be vying to become President again. However she told press in the lobby that she has no plans and that she is "honestly rooting for Gladstone". Liberal former Secretary of Law and Justice Stephen O'Brennen, former presidential candidate and husband of Senator Gladstone, also made an appearance greeting members of Congress.

During the recess, Carndeau apparently attempted to leave the Palace of Auster, which was unsuccessful when the Speaker ordered the Sergeant-at-Arms to block him, to confiscate his mobile devices, and to prevent his aides from speaking to him during proceedings, a signal to many that meant that the President's reciprocity was falling.

The tension goes on. After the Speaker ordered for press and those in the public viewing gallery to leave the chamber during briefing to Congress on national security information, Vice President and Secretary of Defense Julia Warner arrived at the Palace of Auster flanked by a dozen military soldiers, telling press that they "have to end this". When the Sergeant-at-Arms and Palace Armed Security Services (PASS) attempted to block their entry into the chamber, Warner's soldiers pushed them aside and forced the doors of the chamber opened. The Vice President rushed to the Speaker, telling him that the proceedings were "illegal" and said that all involved were under arrest for "treason and sedition". The Speaker stood up and summoned General Hurley, declaring, "“These proceedings are completely constitutional and legal according the Article I Section 3 of the Constitutional Charter." General Hurley relieved the soldiers and the Speaker ordered Warner to stay in the chamber. At this point, the chamber was then in uproar, with members of Congress shouting "motion to vote", "hold the vote", and "tyrant" after Warner's attempt to forcefully stop the proceedings.

As these events were unfolding in Austerain, meanwhile from other SLU states, the President of Anaaxes recalled its ambassador and expelled the Austeren Ambassador, Goldsmith even reportedly saying "Carndeau is dead to me," and the Taoiseach of New Ireland and Wales threatened to revoke the diplomatic immunity of Austeren Ambassador to NIW Angelina Asher if she didn't denounce Carndeau actions, which could have led to her arrest as a government official of an authoritarian state. Later, Ambassador Asher emerged from her meeting with the Taoiseach at the Government Buildings to deliver this blistering statement against Carndeau:

"As I have said before, I am disappointed with the policies of the current President. This has been an embarrassment as a representative of our great nation, because the international community is in uproar over his unconstitutional actions that are contrary to the principles that we have been pushing on fellow members of our Union for so long. I cannot, and I will not, stand by silently while President Carndeau slaughters our credibility as a champion for progressive democratic values- he represents the very opposite. I will resign if Congress does not do the right thing."

Acting Secretary of State Margaret Bartholi offered her support to the Ambassador, who was the second official in the Administration after Secretary of Labor and Commerce Andrew Price to condemn the President. After her statement, the Taoiseach praised Asher as a "great representative of the people and values of Austerain", but revoked her diplomatic credentials while allowing her housing and full diplomatic protections. Palace Chief of Staff to the President Frank Wu called Asher a traitor to the country after "kowtowing to the Taoiseach" and accused her of having an intimate relationship with him. According to the Anaaxese News Network, President Goldsmith told a correspondent that she was "appalled" that the Taoiseach tried to "rough up a woman", regarding his threat to revoke immunity. Goldsmith also confirmed that Senator Gladstone made a call to her to reassure her that they were taking the proper steps to restore good governance to Austerain.

Back in Austerain after hours of debate, Gladstone took the podium once more to address the chamber, "Well, Mr. President... Madam Vice President... you have made this worse for yourselves. Mr. Speaker, honorable members of this hallowed institution, you have just witnessed the Vice President trying to subvert the will of this institution. For as long as these two remain in power, tyranny and authoritarian despotism will choke the honor and esteem of the office of the Presidency of Austerain. We have seen the responses of SLU leaders such as President Goldsmith and Taoiseach Collins after Carndeau threatened to dissolve this session by closing our relations completely. Carndeau has made us an international disgrace and has undermined our credibility. That is why, Mr. Speaker, I motion to vote on the resolution to impeach the President and Vice President of Austerain, and to declare that the people of Austerain and their duly elected representatives no longer have confidence in their ability to govern. I also motion to vote on the passage of the constitutional amendment to increase the number of congressional seats."

The body voted 127 to 13 on the former motion. The Liberals and Progressive Conservatives all joined with the Progressive Democrats in favor, with some NIP members of Congress also voting in favor. For the constitutional amendment, it was passed 117 to 23, with all NIP members voting against it.

After the two votes, the National Congress finally voted on who will assume the Presidency until the snap general elections. Along the same margins as the amendment, Congress voted to appoint Grand Senator Gladstone as President of Austerain. The referendum to formally remove Carndeau and Warner, and to formally certify the amendment, will be held later this week. Until then, the two have been jailed until results of the referendum are announced. If the referendum to remove them fails, they will be released from custody but will no longer hold office. If the move succeeds, they will be tried in a separate court to determine their sentencing. They would be likely to serve 20 years in a correctional facility for corruption, abuse of office, and subversion and contempt of Congress.

President Gladstone said that a pardon is "by no means on the table", and has rescinded all of Carndeau's executive orders. NIW Taoiseach Collins tweeted his congratulations to Gladstone and has restored diplomatic relations.

[Austerain]

Austerain International Times

REMOVAL CONFIRMED, CONGRESSIONAL SEATS TO INCREASE

The results of the referendum to formally remove Carndeau as President and to pass the constitutional amendment to increase the number of congressional seats have been announced by the Federal Electoral Commission. With a 65% turnout, over 81% voted in favor of removal of President Carndeau and Vice President Warner, and 77% voted in favor of the constitutional amendment. It is uncertain how many seats the new Congress will have, but legal experts say that the number of seats in the House of Delegates could go up to as much as 600 and the number in the Grand Senate could be as much as 150. As per the new constitutional amendment, Congress must now work with the FEC to determine the number of seats and the new district lines for the seats. Political analysts assert that with so many congressional seats being added and with smaller districts, the Progressive Democratic Party and Liberal Party are to gain larger majorities as the Nationalist Islanders' are set to lose most of their seats according to a recent Gallup poll. With PDP and the Liberals are friendlier terms with Claire Gladstone as President with her husband Stephen O'Brennen (who was the Liberals presidential nominee and current party leader from the last election) Gladstone is likely to have her mandate solidified with the backing of both parties in the upcoming election as she begins her campaigning. NIP has declined to offer a presidential candidate already now that Carndeau is removed and likely facing prison time, and the Progressive Conservatives will replace Governor Williamson as party leader after he lost in the last two elections.

Now that the results of the referendum have been announced, President Gladstone will announce her Vice President tomorrow in the Palace Garden, and snap elections will be held as soon as Congress has determined the quantity of seats and district lines.

[Austerain]

Austerain International Times

GLADSTONE WINS RE-ELECTION, CONGRESS EXPANDS

After 77% of voters chose to approve the constitutional amendment to increase the number of congressional seats to 510 last month, President Gladstone immediately called for a new snap election and chose Liberal and former ambassador to NIW Angelina Asher as the Vice President and her running mate after NIW voted to withdraw from the Social Liberal Union.

During the campaign, the Progressive Conservatives chose Governor Francisco Borgia of the Province of Cesarmere as their new party leader and presidential nominee. Over the course of the campaign, he attacked Gladstone for “carrying out an organized coup against Carndeau to gain power” and “PDP’s hypocrisy over turning against the very figure they backed”. NIP endorsed Borgia while the Liberal Party, in which Gladstone’s husband former Secretary of Law and Justice Stephen O’Brennen and Vice President Asher are members of, endorses Gladstone.

During an interview, Governor McCord of Hyacinth, who is popular among Liberals and Progressive Democrats alike, called on Gladstone to “give Austerens a voice” after he came out in support of the Austerleave movement. After NIW withdrew from the Union, McCord became the highest level supporter of the movement. After polls indicated that 52% of Austerens also support the movement, President Gladstone announced that she would call for a referendum to vote on the issue. McCord switched his party to PDP after this became a major focus of her campaign, becoming the only PDP Governor in Austerain.

Finally on the 19th of December, 68.9% of Austerain voted to keep Claire Gladstone in office as President of Austerain, and the PDP becomes the largest party in Congress and formed a coalition with the Liberal Party with Vice President Angelina Asher as their party leader. Governor Borgia becomes the leader of the opposition as NIP’s seats dwindled down to 9 seats in total.

The party makeup of the new National Congress is as follows:

Congress- 510
PDP- 253
Liberals- 138
PCP- 104
NIP- 9

Grand Senate- 100
PDP- 40
Liberals- 38
PCP- 20
NIP- 2

House of Delegates- 400
PDP- 212
Liberals- 101
PCP- 80
NIP- 7

House of Governors- 10
PDP- 1
Liberals- 5
PCP- 4

Just one day in her first elected term as President, she proposed the resolution for a referendum on Austerain’s membership to SLU on the floor of the Grand Senate. The resolution passed 65-35, and passed the House of Delegates 236-164. The House of Governors is expected to certify the resolution tomorrow morning.