The Europolis Post
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FEDERAL HIGH COURT JUDGES AGAINST CONSTITUTIONAL COMPLAINT
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(Ulm, Swabian Lands) - The Federal High Court (FHC), judged against the claim of a cititen that the European Elections Act is unconstitutional.
A plaintiff, who, according to anonymous sources, lost the election to be the European Councillor for Swabian Lands, started a lawsuit on the FHC that Article 1(1) of the Law on European Elections was violating European Law and therefore the Constitution.
The clause in question made the provisons of the Law ln Federal Elections apply in European Elections. Of this Law, Article 2(3), so the plaintiff, violates Section I(I)(e) of the Elected and Accountable Council Act, as this article required each nomination to be either baked from a political party or from 100 citizens.
The plaintiff argued that any citizen should be able to nominate themself without any known support, and so appear on hundreds of thousands of electoral ballots.
The Ministry of the Interior's attorney, representing the Federation, argued back that Section XX of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights protected each citizens democratic rights, and that the Federation may protect these rights, and the rights not be able to be considered in effect if citizens do not have the chance to read the list of candidates.
Whether the plaintiff will take this matter to the European Court of Justice is yet unknown. -
Europe is unstable, no matter when you read this
Opinion piece by Euronews presenter, Manu TerradillosNo matter the great job Birdane and Cocx are pulling out, Europe is unstable, no matter when you read this. To those that thought, mostly in the country which caused most of our region stability last year, that getting Juncker out from the office would mean a better Europe are, once again, wrong (as they were always). If it's not the Union of Syndicates, then it's Reitzmag, Copala City, United Duchies, the Union of Nicoleizian Soviet Republics, Eastern Haaneans going crazy or some silly drama taking place somewhere in the other side of he ocean because of some military bases. The European Union is unstable, and those not wishing to recognise what the truth about our region is are blind and have a serious issue with being sincere when they speak to the public.
Today, we have another assault of Reitzmag VS Copala, the series. This time, some words said by Simon Bridges, from Reitzmag, in front of 3 Presidents, an autonomous territory Minister and the Internal Affairs Commissioner were the firearms used. And while Bridges acted like a literal toddler (there's no possible salvation for him in the short time), the Copalan Independence Union didn't take a long time to react with demonstrations and pro-independence stuff. Copalan Nationalism is on the rise, with a sort of Harriett Copala fan-fiction thing in which she is the saviour and mother of the glorious Copalan nation. But, does that exist, or, much better, will Reitzmag allow it to exist? It doesn't seem like they will, and the only known support for Copala City in the European Union comes from the United Duchies (oh, surprise!).
And while the United Duchies arrests leftists all around the country and pushes security polices which make the country look more like a dictatorship than a democracy, the Union of Nicoleizian Soviet Republics starts to go through a bad time, with people suffering as they have nothing to eat. But hey, nobody seems to care about the Nicoleizians anymore! Europe is such an unstable thing Angleter is trying to leave and the Deputy Speaker pushes an amendment to the EACA (which, by the way, he defended when it was passed and then, voted against the many amendments proposed) to see if they come back to the European Council, at the same time people in the Union of Syndicates are dying or being killed, because Europe doesn't care about that.
No matter where you look, all is unstable. Spain, Vayinaod, Fremet, Inquista, the Duxburian Union... They seem to be stable but, are they really what they say, or do they lie to everyone as always? I think yes, but, the European Union is like that, and will always be unstable. No matter when you read this.
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Elspeth Arkalis found dead in Europolis park
Former Councillor Elspeth Arkalis was found dead, at the age of 96, in a Europolis park, her organs hanging from trees, her entrails dangling from them "like bunting."
The woman who discovered her body claimed that she first saw her eyes, which were hung with twine from a branch of a tree.
"Little round white and red things from a distance. You come closer- God! Eyes! Ants crawling over them, taking bits of them back to...wherever they came from, the smell of rot. And they're frozen, staring at you, what you can see of them. I screamed. The eyes were the least of it. Ahead, her entrails, still dripping with liquid, covered in insects, were strewn from tree to tree, hanging like bunting. I almost vomited, but then there were the fingers, blackened and bloody, everywhere - then the toes, the feet, the hands, the limbs, all without skin. Everywhere body parts, I couldn't escape. I was screaming and screaming and screaming, and it seemed as though no one could hear me. Her stomach was there, her pancreas too, her kidneys, her bladder, her lungs, all of it rotting and covered with insects. At the center, there was a pile of bloodied flesh on the ground, before a tree, almost like an offering - her skin and whatever else they couldn't remove - and then her brain at the top of tree, her brain - and her face - they tore off her face, hanging from a branch, with a smile-like hole where her lips should have been. I ran, I ran as fast as I could. I don't ever want to see anything like that again."
Ms. Arkalis's death is universally considered a murder orchestrated by the regime in Istkalen; the culprits, however, have not been found. An investigation is underway as her body-parts are collected from the park in which they were placed; a disturbing video, found on a drive, showing Arkalis screaming as her skin is removed and salt thrown on her, then her motionless as her organs are extracted, has been recovered.
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THE MONTAGUE TIMES
How not to select the next European Central Bank president
EUROPOLIS.- There are many ways to select the next president of the European Central Bank. None is worse than the one chosen by the European Council: fold it into a wider political selection process, where the job is a second or third order priority. The choice is difficult as it is. EU leaders just made it a lot harder.
What are the qualities needed to fill it — other than being a man or a woman, short or tall, from the south or the north? I also find the debate on whether a Reitzmic must or must not become ECB president troubling.
The main qualities I would be looking for in the next ECB chief are intellectual curiosity, a willingness to question one’s own beliefs and especially one’s own models, to admit errors, and try new approaches. The next president will need to engage in the debate over modern monetary theory and other non-conventional ideas. He or she should have a deep understanding of current economic models and where they fall short. The proverbial monkey with a dartboard would have outperformed the ECB’s forecasting department in the last decade. One of the jobs of the next ECB chief will be to outperform the monkey.
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Cryptic Firoux Tweet Likely to All but End Leeson's Chances in Inquista
Op-ed written by Lex Burnley
A cryptic tweet made by Chief Bishop Secretary Edward Firoux is widely being regarded as a snub of Peter Leeson's campaign to become the Internal Affairs Commissioner of the European Union. The snub will spell good news for Commission candidates Emma Granger, Piane Daggott and Joe Biden, who are expected to gain at his expense, and consume what remains of his political support in Inquista.
Leeson has launched his campaign for Internal Affairs by admonishing the equal marriage rights clause of the European Union's Declaration of Human Rights, which Leeson has stated that he would like to see removed. Bishop Secretary Firoux wrote and championed the equal marriage rights clause, among other significant contributions he made to the UDoHR, including clauses on torture and capital punishment, and other measures to expand and strengthen the EU's primary human rights declaration. Thus, the Chief Bishop Secretary's tweet is publicly being interpreted as a swipe against the Leeson campaign.
In order to win in Inquista, Leeson - who describes himself as a centrist and moderate candidate - would need to rely on the support of Inquista's centre-left and centre-right. Firoux is broadly considered to be the popular avatar of Inquista's centre-left, and he is also coincidentally held in especially high regard by Inquistan environmentalists and ecologists, who appear to be another demographic that the Leeson campaign are targeting. Firoux's social media snub likely means Leeson will lose signficant support in Inquista's centre-left and environmentalist circles, leaving Leeson only with Inquista's centre-right, who are in turn likely to take issue with the vast majority of Leeson's other policies (such as his proposed Europe-wide referendums), and who appear to be coalescing around Joe Biden's #NoMalarkey campaign anyway - leaving Leeson with no discernible demographic of support in the country.
Firoux's cryptic tweet is considered to be quite significant because the Bishop Secretary has not publicly commented on European politics since stepping down as the EPA Chairperson in December of 2020. Firoux did not participate or comment in the last Commission elections, meaning he did not endorse Leeson's previous premiership candidacy, which ultimately resulted in Leeson failing to win the premiership and thus becoming the first EPA premiership candidate to lose an election in more than three years. Firoux is expected to once again not endorse any Commission candidate, and hasn't shown too much enthusiasm to wade into European politics again, besides to show support to the LGBTQ community and those who seek to limit the UDoHR.
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STEPHANIE DeVEY: Jean-Claude Juncker is one of the most controversial, well-known, and most influential members of the European Progressive Alliance, formerly lead by Edward Firoux. Jean-Claude, after serving two terms as Internal Affairs Commissioner, is now eyeing the position of Premier Commissioner. Among him also running are Sofie Čikarová and Dr. Iskiris Koline. I started by asking Juncker to summarise his programme in 3 words.
JCJ: Bring Europe back
SDV: Would you say the EPA brand has been tainted in the last few weeks and months ?
JCJ: The European Progressive Alliance brand isn't tainted and it has never been, but the discrepancies of some Councillors with the words of other Councillors from the same organisation are what made the situation slightly bad. Anyway, I trust Donald will do a nice job and will be able to rescue the EPA and bring most of our former members, like Speaker Michel, back into our group.
SDV: What would you say to people struggling with the effects of globalisation ?
JCJ: To those struggling, all I could tell them is Europe and its politicians are always here to help. If you realise, our world is changing incredibly fast and not even us are able to keep the same speed as globalisation. One of the challenges the European Union has, and despite being quite old, I will try to complete, is going faster that globalisation and adapt ourselves to the future challenges we will have.
SDV: Tell me why you are uniquely qualified for this position.
JCJ: I'm uniquely qualified for this position because I know what the European Union is about; I have been the Internal Affairs Commissioner for 8 months, achieving great things like the first mediation ever in the Caspian, the European Leaders' Summit, I proposed to create a mobile phone app to let the Europeans be informed about what's going on in Europolis and I have never prioritised my country or my own interests over the European Union's. Other cannot say the same. Also, if you look at the candidates running for Premiership, you have one who believes that Communism is the right choice for Europe and that will solve all our problems, and another who says the EU has no sense at all. Of course, their views are respectable and must be respected, but that's not what we need to fix the European Union. The only one carrying reasonable proposals, like the 2030 EU Strategy, a new budget or putting an end to shady companies that the EU funds, or at least, making them useful.
SDV: Ignoring the legislative hurdles, if you could change anything in Europe at the click of a button what would you change ?
JCJ: That's quite a good question, because there are many things I would like to change in Europe by just pushing a button. (Juncker laughs) But I think that our main priority when it comes to changing things should be the Constitution, and if at the click of a button we could all agree and change it to a better one, then that would be what I would change right now; and I'm pretty confident to get a new constitution going by the end of the first term or the start of a second one, if I'm re-elected.
SDV: You have identified the EU as being « a Broken Union », however, with the relatively limited powers of the Premier, how do you intend to fix this ?
JCJ: When I first ran for Internal Affairs, I was told the one who had more power in the European Union was the Premier Commissioner. Then I won the election and made the Internal Affairs Commissioner have the hugest amount of power, while the Premiership lost it. That means tendencies can be changed again, and we can go back to that time when the Premier was the most powerful seat. Still, I want to remark that I'm not running because I want power or things like that, I want to help Europe as much as I can and being active on the Commission and answering at the same time the events take place is what we should do. The Premier can do many things, you just need to have someone competent seated there.
SDV: And finally, who should the EU sanction, and how ?
JCJ: The EU shouldn't sanction anyone as of now, because it wouldn't be good for us. We need to stop looking at foreign states problems and start looking at our own problems first. You know I am not a fan of the UNSR, but I think mediation is the best way to end that conflict, same with Copala City, and that's what we will try to do. If some side says no to a mediation, they the whole of Europe will know who doesn't want to fix things and end the madness
SDV: Thank you very much for your time.
JCJ: Thank you.
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Behind the Headlines: Get to Know the Real Piane Daggot
Piane Daggot, thank you so much for joining us via hologram today. Your connection looks great in 4K! How is the hologram campaign going? Are you using one of those 5G networks that Juncker loves to talk about?
Hey squirrel friend! I’m serving hologram realness yas. I would to be, however I’m just borrowing the wifi at a Starbucks in Europolis.
Ah, that explains why at least 20 voices can be heard coming from your end. Could you tell us what your go-to Starbucks order is?
I always get a strawberry frappe with extra strawberry syrup so it’s red - like the people’s flag.
Sounds delicious! Running for Commissioner for Internal Affairs is pretty demanding, so I imagine you need all the caffeine you can get. Let's get to it. You’re running on a platform of peaceful coexistence, especially in terms of the UNSR. However, if you could make peace between any feuding politicians or celebrities, as Internal Affairs Commissioner, who would they be?
I think Juncker and Winston need to hug it out. Imagine all the Junckers, living life in peace. I feel sorry for the kids, I mean the trains, caught in the middle of it. They'll probably need to choo choo over to therapy after their bitter arguments. Sad!
It would be great if that feud could finally get settled in 2021. You’ve proven yourself a tactical mastermind, as you helped plan Operation Parva Coles during the civil war in Reitzmag. What RTS games helped you prepare for that battle?
Yes, as a veteran I find it therapeutic to play games like that. I particularly enjoy the Red Alert series. It reminds me of my time on the battlefield, fighting for what I believe is right. I am, however, now glad that we have peace in all the conflicts I have served in, and all my battles are now in front of an LED clad gaming computer.
Red Alert is a great game. We also heard that you are quite good at Among Us. Describe your Among Us playstyle. What’s your strategy like? Also, what’s your take on the latest map ‘the Airship’?
As someone who has fought on a front line, I know how to kill. Therefore, yes, I humbly admit I am good at the hit game, "Among Us". I normally kill off any capitalist globalists first. You can tell by their usernames. Anyone who uses words such as "I" or "me" is definitely a globalist. I then skilfully work my way through the crewmates. I enjoy the map, but I think it might be a little too big. I hope the neoliberal market didn't have anything to do with that.
Earlier today, you released a campaign playlist of your favourite songs. We’ll include a link to that playlist here. Can you tell us about your favourite bops on that playlist, and how those songs have personally impacted you?
I chose these hits because they are all such danceable bops. It’s time to celebrate! They are such great bops. Savage by Megan Thee Stallion really speaks to me, as well as Feeling Myself by Nicki Minaj and Beyoncé. These are both empowering tunes, and the playlist tries to include songs that make you feel like THAT bitch. I Am What I Am is also great, we can all be who we want to be. I included Kings and Queens by Ava Max as those are the people I would like to remove from their positions, as a socialist. Ava has a great song, but it doesn’t matter the gender of the monarch, it is still a poor system of government! I also included some Eurovoice bops. I am a HUGE fan of the contest. Skorápy Orechu is one of my favourite songs of all time, and I heard it for the first time at Eurovoice in Cesae Vauvra in 1985. I also chose You Don’t Own Me by Lesley Gore, I like to imagine that the means of production are singing this song to the bourgeoisie. You don’t own me! These are some great songs and I’m sure your readers will get a kick out of them too.
Tell Me Ma? Skořápky Ořechů? Savage? Good taste. On a similar note, could you give us any TV recommendations? What series are you currently binging on Netflix?
I am currently binging "Border Patrol: Icholasen." It's kind of an old series, but it still holds up. It's from around 2014 and follows a group of border patrol agents as they try to keep Icholasen free of dairy produce, and other illicit and harmful substances. It really is amazing to what lengths people will go to to smuggle dairy into Icholasen - that in itself makes it very enjoyable, but sometimes scary. It's great for binging as it is always new. There are no two episodes alike. As a Minister in the Interior department in Security, I met members of this newly modernised patrol. It is still interesting though to see how it operated under the old regime.
As you know, June is LGBTQ Pride Month. Who are some of your favourite drag queens?
In Inquista, it HAS to be Madame Marco, but I have many favourites from all across the continent. When I'm in Prague, I love to visit a bar called DefenestrateHER, a mainly lesbian bar that serves drinks in window-shaped glasses with the handle being some poor protestant being pushed out. There is a drag queen there called Dominika Dvořáková who does the best impression of Marie Rottrová I've ever seen in my life. She does all the songs. Also, the late great Nicoleizienne, Divine, is one of my favourites. She often performed in London in the 1980s where I worked as a Communist Party Official. It was great to blow off steam after work with a drink and a show.
Sounds like you know how to enjoy a good Friday night. Let's turn this into a scenario. Two countries are negotiating for peace after a conflict, and you have to mediate between two foreign ministers. The two ministers want to talk over some food and drinks. What sort of restaurant are you taking them to, and what will your drink of choice be?
I would take them to a tapas bar in Ibiza because it encourages cooperation. Tit for tat. You can have some jamón if I can have some calamari. They will soon get the idea to translate that into their problems. As for drinks, of course I love Mojitos. I was famously photographed and SHAMED on social media for having one on public transport. But now I’m head of the Nicova so who’s laughing now?
You're an avid user of public transport, and your Commission campaign is being run in a carbon-neutral way. Protecting the environment is clearly very important to you. Do you have any pets, and what animal do you think is very underrated?
I don’t have any pets right now, unfortunately. Animals need a lot of care, and since I’m so busy I know I couldn’t give them the love and attention they need. If I could choose, though, I would get some terrapins. They are so small and cute, definitely underrated. I’m not sure what kind of care they need, but they are freshwater tropical so it could be relatively intense! But one day I will have some terrapins.
Aww, those are very cute. Now, onto a very short round of some word association. I'll give you a word, and you tell me what word first comes to your mind. Ready? Marx.
Prescient.
Oppression.
Capitalism.
Trains.
8G.
Ice cream.
Dangerous.
Freedom.
Marie Rottrová.
Ok, I now have 4 words for you, and you have to pick one to describe yourself: hotter, sweeter, cooler, butter. Which ones resonates with you?
Butter.
Thank you so much for joining us from Europolis, Piane. It was a pleasure to have you.
No, thank YOU!
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Postimees: Our Electoral Predictions
From arduous research into past election patterns and polling, we have constructed the following electoral predictions.
Legend
- white: tossup
- red: PEL
- yellow: EPA
- orange: independent, center-left
- blue: independent, center-right
Only two countries are expected to be tossups this election - Fremet, whose electorate is likely to continue viewing the UNSR as a major issue - and may dislike Juncker's more hardline stance towards the nation, especially in contrast with its government's softening policy - and Ruthund, which, as with previous elections, is likely to see national sovereignty as its primary issue.
Both of these nations are expected, however, to see increasingly weakening support for Juncker in the coming days. With his pledge to not implement the protocols for détente contained within the Condemnation of the Coup in Icholasen - and thus to violate Constitutional protocols - the electorate in both nations is likely to turn away from him.
Turning to oddities, we now analyze Inquista and Vayinaod.
Inquista continues its march leftwards; however, EPA and PEL candidates are nominally tied there, almost exactly. With Čikarová able to win an election quite strongly there despite not even running, however, our analysts believe that it is more likely that the PEL will come out on top.
Vayinaod is stranger - it is likely that it is the best choice among three relatively mediocre candidates for them. Koline's campaign, focused primarily on creating an international economic system more in line with modern economics, may be distancing and heavy-handed for them; Juncker, on the other hand, may be seen as bordering on populist, lacking real substance and detail and making up for it with increasingly "radical" ideas against the Council.
The nations that Koline is to take, save for her home nation, which may not even be able to vote, are themselves quite strange. The United Duchies seems to be voting for her simply because Juncker is seen as the candidate of impersonal neoliberalism and Čikarová a communist; Reitzmag for similar reasons.
The remainder of nations, save for those expected to abstent, typically vote with the EPA.
Those expected to abstent will likely do so in the absence of true Eurosceptic candidates.
In terms of changes, several benefit Koline - with her having seen large "jumps" in support in several nations; however, these are not as important; on the other hand, Juncker has seen increases in popularity in many nations as well, generally those he was already likely to win.
The Internal Affairs election continues with a relatively similar pattern - the EPA continuing to dominant in its usual heartlands, Fremet and Ruthund as toss-ups, and the Duxburian Union, Inimicus, and Pravoslaviya as abstenting.
The only differences are with Vayinaod, Istkalen, and Reitzmag, which each likely changed as a result of the presence or absence of better candidates.
It effectively is a reflection of the Premiership race, with little change having occurred.
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EUnews Polling for EU Premier Commission Elections
Juncker wins but 2nd preference will be important
If Commission elections were held today, the European Progressive Alliance's candidate and former Internal Affairs Commissioner, Jean-Claude Juncker, would be elected as Premier Commissioner on a landslide victory to both the Party of the European Left, Sophie Čikarová; and the independent candidate from Istkalen, Isidris Koline, by 6 votes. Still, we can also observe that, while Juncker has a large margin of possible votes, between 6 and 12; both Čikarova and Koline have a way more stable vote base (with a margin between 3 and 5 votes for the Czech candidate and between 2 and 5 for the Istkalenian one)
When it comes to countries, Jean-Claude Juncker (9) would win at Gadalland & Aspern, Nofoaga, Kaitsja, Montenbourg, Spain, Inquista, Leagio, Inimicus and Icholasen. Apart from these countries, he could also win Alkharya, Fremet and Reitzmag, where the Spanish candidate might be doing good. If Juncker got the same amount of votes than on this poll, second preferences would be irrelevant as he would have a majority.
Sophie Čikarova (3) would place in second, gaining Czech Slavia, Vayinaod and Ruthund, which is likely turning for the Czech candidate after she stated that a Čikarova commission would never force Ruthund "off of its selected path", probably meaning to the country's choice to have some business with the Union of Nicoleizian Soviet Republics. Apart from these countries, Čikarova could get the United Duchies, despite being regarded as too far-left, and Fremet.
Finally, Isidris Koline (3) would get his own home nation, Istkalen, Reitzmag and the United Duchies. She will be challenged by Čikarova on this last country, which could drop her to just two votes, and even just one if Reitzmag voted for Juncker. If everything went to plan and she got these 3 votes, she could probably get the Duxburian vote and the Fremetian vote, getting her to earn 5 votes.
Whatever the outcome is, Europe won't take much to discover. In 2 weeks, Europe will finally know which of these candidates will become the next Premier Commissioner.
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Stephanie DeVey: Hello. Today I am joined by Peter Leeson, a candidate with a good shot at becoming our next Internal Affairs Commissioner. Hello Peter.
Peter Leeson: Hello Stephanie, it's great to be here.
SDV: Let's get on with the questions, firstly, I am going to ask a question I will ask all my interviewees for these elections. Please summarise your programme in 3 words.
PL: Sovereignty, Cooperation and Uniting
SDV: In a Europe that is almost dominated by the EPA, have you found running as an independent to be an advantage, or a disadvantage ?
PL: It's been a bit easier as I have been able to tailor my campaign and listen easier. Engagement has to be more direct which is a challenge but also an immense strength. I can listen to concerns and change policy right away, in the EPA I had to send it through committee. So overall I’d say it's far better as I am not beholden to corporate interests and can actually represent the people
SDV: Right. You are among many of our commission candidates who has criticised globalisation, how would you make the current economic system fairer ?
PL: I would focus on co-operation and focus on creating a system where all people matter not just rich elites. I would make it so if a European wide decision is to be made on a big issue or if a significant proportion of Europe oppose an act they can influence it via popular referendum requiring a majority of 55% +1 vote of thew people and 55%+1 of countries to succeed.. This would take power out of the politicians and elites hands and bring power directly back to the countries and the people who after all should be the masters and also remove power from the corporations. I would also look law by law and look at reducing the amount of prescriptive laws with laws focusing more on achieve targets in a way that suits the country , basically we can work together but nations have their sovereignty. This centralisation madness needs to stop, I am not anti-EU I was one of the most most vocal proponents on the EU entry referendum , but the EU has changed too much since then.
SDV: There are many candidates up for this post, most than the Premiership, tell me why you are uniquely qualified for this position ?
PL: I am the only one who is in the centre not beholden to unions or corporate interests at least for IAC post. Furthermore I have worked as PM of the Duchies, and its hard , you learn in that job to compromise , you learn to balance between left wing and right wing and conservatives and liberals and nationalists. I had to balance all those interests to make policy for 7 Duchies and two different cultures. I don’t believe any other candidate has this. I’ve basically led a country that could be described as two different societies opposite to each other in many aspects.
SDV: Of course, as Internal Affairs Commissioner, you will not have supreme power. Ignoring the legislative hurdles, if you could change anything in Europe at the click of a button what would you change ?
PL: I would introduce popular referendums for major issues and constitutional issues to put the people in charge and rewrite laws to be more target driven than specific and prescriptive.
SDV: Yes, this policy has caused quite the stir. So, I must ask you, is your referendum policy really feasible ?
PL: Yes I believe it is workable. Now it might need tweaking around the edges on things such minimum signatures before a vote can be called but ultimately it is workable. I would work out details with all countries but something needs to change, politicians and corporate lobbyists have been in charge long enough its time for the people to be in charge and politicians be the servants as they should be.
SDV: And so finally, who should the EU sanction, and how ?
PL: Simple answer no one new and we should even possibly look at the UNSR issue. Its clear sanctions aren’t working as intended , Duchies just a few months ago would have backed UNSR sanctions but there is change on that, we need to start a dialogue to change things , key to that is democracy requirements but we need to talk , sanctions are only hurting the people . As for new sanctions no one has done anything egregious enough to deserve them , and in Istkalens case its now a different government , Reitzmag for all its got wrong at times is heading in the right direction , we’ve had our differences but I truly believe Reitzmag is heading in the right direction . There is simply no one worthy of sanctioning right now.
okay most typos should have been fixed.SDV: Thank you very much for your time Mr Leeson, and best of luck.
PL: Thank you Stephanie.
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Why Coming Second Isn’t So Bad : The Commission Elections Electoral System
Stephanie DeVey
Coming second in sports is an an excruciating near-loss -- and in other extracurricular activities, it is also usually a bad thing. But, if no one gets a majority of the votes, which seems likely right now in the IAC election, then second preferences, and even third preferences will be paramount to the winner's victory.
Normally, these aren’t useful at all. During the last few years of EPA dominance, most candidates took an outright majority of the votes, and the boffins at the election HQ were sad to find they didn't need to do their maths to decide the winner. However, recently, there have been instances where second preferences made all the difference.
This time, we could see a scenario where the candidate who comes second in the first round, ends up winning on second preferences.
What would or does this mean for European Democracy ? The emergence of multiparty politics (with independents too), rather than the uni-party hegemony of the EPA, indicates either a distaste for their moderate, Europhile platform and perhaps even a breakup of the Union altogether. Or, it could represent an invigoration and a renaissance of European democracy, with more and more people becoming more and more enthused about different candidates than ever before, and less people winning by default.
Whatever it means in the long run, 2nd preferences will be incredibly important in this IAC election, and, who knows, even for the Premiership.
Stephanie DeVey is a writer and broadcaster for NBC, the European Post, and the Copala City Tribune.
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Stephanie DeVey: Hello everyone and welcome to another one of my Commission election interviews ! We are joined by someone known sometimes as 'Sofierce', and sometimes as 'Sofiercesome', but to us she is known as Sofie Čikarová.
Sofie Čikarová: Hello, thank you for inviting me onto the show !
SDV: Let's get our teeth into the real issues facing the EU today. Firstly, like I have asked all the candidates, what 3 words sum up your campaign ?
SČ: Work, Democracy, Peace.
SDV: Very nice - let's get those werqers werqin' !
SČ: Ha.
SDV: Moving on, would you say that the PEL is a puppet of the UNSR / Czech states ?
SČ: The Party of the European Left is a Eurogroup like any other. As such its direction is influenced by its members, but it certainly isn't a puppet of any single member. We in PEL fully believe in and practice equality and democracy.
SDV: You go girlfriend. Now, you have laid out your plans to reduce the negative impacts of globalisation, but are your 'cures' worse than the 'disease' ?
SČ: Well, let us look closer at the disease itself.The problem is that the vast majority of citizens in the EU member states do not own their own land, perhaps even worse, they no longer even own their bodies. Everything was taken from them by few wealthy elites, many of them from outside their own countries. The cure is to take back our lives and our land. The way to do that, is to give larger voices to the labor unions, stop meddling in other affairs of the member states and to further develop the member states, thus reducing their dependance. Do you think that such a cure is worse than the disease? I don't find it being worse, I find it being sensible and I think majority of the people think the same.
SDV: Sexy economic reforms you love to see it. Tell me why you are uniquely qualified for this position.
SČ: Well for once I am not a part of the European Union establishment, my aims are not the same as theirs, I am not in the pocket of any businessman. I like being among the normal people and I am the only candidate who wants to represent their voices. I have no deals with them. I am offer real alternatives and I am consistent in my opinions. Yet I still have some experience from my home country.
SDV: Ignoring the legislative hurdles, if you could change anything in Europe at the click of a button what would you change ?
SČ: Right now, the repeal of condemnation of Nicoleizian revolution is my priority. Securing peace and co-operation is the first step we need to do, regardless of our views the restrictions on sovereigny endanger us all! After that of course my goal is to cut sensless spending and put it on sensible projects that will affect the lives of the people. But you know, it is not possible to change anything by the click of the button, as with everything it is necessary to work for it. And I want to work for it.
SDV: You have attacked Cocx. What is the most significant Cocx era policy, or way of doing things that you would change ?
SČ: Well unlike Cocx I won't try to restrict the member states. Unlike Cocx I won't start crying about the "evil" council when my propositions are denied by them. I will try to talk with the Councillors, but never compromise on the will of the people, their will will always have a priority. What else is there to say about Cocx? After he embarrassed himself spectacularly he did what Merkel did before him, nothing. That is also an example I won't follow, but there is no need to talk about Dr. Cocx anymore, he isn't running, he found enough dignity in himself to stay out.
SDV: And finally, who should the EU sanction, and how ?
SČ: Nobody. Period. That decision belongs to the member states.
SDV: Thank you so much for your time. I hope this has been an informative interview for my viewers and listeners across Europe.
SČ: Thank you for your questions DeVey, I appreciate that you try to bring the candidates views to your audience. Informed person is crucial for any democracy, which is also why our PEL program includes the development of education. Goodbye.
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Stephanie DeVey: I am joined today by the front-runner for the position of Internal Affairs Commissioner - Emma Granger.
Emma Granger: First, I must say what a honor to be here. Thank you for taking the time to make this space.
SDV: As I have asked all my guests, please summarise your programme in 3 words.
EG: My three words: Forward, Unity, and Action.
SDV: And so, the EPA have been in power (on and off) for a long time - what will you do differently ? Do you have any critiques of the Commissioners who have come before you ?
EG: Well Stephanie, If you look at the history of the EPA, you will see that it is we the progressives who have had the best stirs on how to manage the jostling that have come. And time and again, it is to us that the people of this Union have turned to get that balance right, between the instincts to share and to give everyone a fair chance in life. And to look after the poorest and the neediest, and to build a great European Union. But I would also just point out to you that of course nobody, no one party, no one person has a monopoly of wisdom. Nevertheless, history speaks for itself.
My tenure as a member of the European Council is certainly a huge positive start on how we are going to run things differently as Affairs Commissioner. Doing the talk and walking the walk. Not staying silent on the things that must be said and doing the talk on things that must be discussed. I have spent my career fighting for reforms in the system and pushing the envelope to give every European a safe net of what our constitution has consecrated by putting words into acts that truly reflect and guarantee the spirit of what is written. I am someone who loves doing the job, because is what moves me every day.
I believe that every Commissioner respond to the times for which it was elected, my only critique is that we must be aware of the lack of continuity of the good work of others.
SDV: In the debate, you expressed support for globalisation. How do you ensure this is a fair economic system ?
EG: Sure! For some people trade fits into one of the basic messages that many of my fellow candidates had constructed in the minds of some, which is that ‘the other’ is dangerous to us," and that is a message from a place of hate, not of economics. Globalization means we have to re-examine some of our ideas, and look at ideas from other countries, from other cultures, and open ourselves to them. And that's not comfortable for the average person.
Is the simple but powerful message that says “it takes two tango” because our economy as a child does not grow up only in a single home, its upbringing belongs to the community. When this is done well it works for everyone.
SDV: Ms. Granger, tell me why you are uniquely qualified for this position.
EG: When Europe does not lead, the Union is a dangerous and a tragic place. Europeans want someone who will lead; in negotiations, in visits and taking action where is needed. As I said earlier Stephanie, I have spent my career fighting for reforms in the system and pushing the envelope to give every European a safe net of what our constitution has consecrated by putting words into acts that truly reflect and guarantee the spirit of what is written.
I think that being in politics, being in leadership should be as much about listening as talking. That's how I think you can get the information and sort of pick up the nuance that will enable you to do the best possible job. So, not only am I comfortable with it, I think it for the past years I have listened, to women and girls, to social workers, to activists, movements; to people, and this adds value to not only the campaign but how I envision the job I want to get. And this, I think, is what qualifies me for the job.
SDV: Ignoring the legislative hurdles, if you could change anything in Europe at the click of a button what would you change ?
EG: I respond you with this question why are there so many problems in our world today? One word: human greed. On a click of a button that sin needs to go.
SDV: Which of your opponents do you think is the most dangerous and why ?
EG: I think, you know, we shouldn't get into the politics of this back and forth because I don't think it's fair. But I will tell you this, It's now clear that so-called 'fake news', conspiration theories and calling others nicknames of “elites” can have real consequences. Because they fuel Europeans under the label of fear. And those are the most dangerous. But equally dangerous are those who say that we better walk alone than together.
SDV: And finally, what will be the first thing you do as Internal Affairs Commissioner ?
EG: From Day One, I will finish the negotiations with the Spanish delegation at the Bergen Climate Change Conference and proceed with the signing of the Bergen Agreement.
SDV: Thank you so much for joining me, Emma ! It was great talking to you !
EG: Anytime!
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STEPHANIE DEVEY REPORTING WITH EUROPE ELECTS : THE RESULTS OF THE JUNE 2021 COMMISSION ELECTIONS
Stephanie DeVey: Hello and welcome to our election studio. So far, we have 3 results in of an expected circa 18. As the very early results stand, both PEL candidates would be elected - with one having most likely to step down because of electoral law surrounding two candidates being from 2 countries. This, however, will undoubtedly change as the bulk of pro-EPA countries are yet to come.
I am joined by candidate Peter Leeson, who has so far received 1 out of 3 first preference votes. He is certainly still in with a decent chance of winning.
Hello, Mr. Leeson.
Peter Leeson: Hello Stephanie.
SDV: What do you think of the limited votes so far ?
PL: The results with nations voted so far are as expected but we haven't had the sovereignty minded nations vote yet so that will change results over the night.
SDV: And so, what is your prediction right now ?
PL: I certainly predict a wave of anti-eu elite votes to come in later in the night benefiting candidates like myself and Daggot.
SDV: What do you think the results so far say about European democracy ?
PL: The fact a candidate not running won and Juncker came dead last shows that people want democracy and sovereignty and are against Euro-dictators like Juncker and thats a healthy thing
SDV: Thank you so much for your time, no doubt we will come back to you for comment as the evening progresses.
PL: Thank you.
SDV: And so now let's see if any of the votes so far are 'gains' or 'losses'.
SDV: Peter Leeson, at this point in the February election had 2 votes, and now has 1. Though this time he is running for Internal and not Premier, so we have counted his extra vote as a 'gain'. All of these individuals will have gains at the end, but we can see how votes are changing more clearly in the party figures. Independents are down 1 vote in both Internal and the Premiership, and the EPA and PEL are going up by one each. This time last election, as they did not field candidates, the EPA had 0 votes, and now has 1, the PEL had 0 votes for Premier and Internal, and now has 1 for each - Istkalen of course not participating in the previous elections as they were not yet members of the Union. Results will continue to pour in no doubt over the coming days, and analysis will continue and politicians will continue to be interviewed.
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Stephanie DeVey: Hello and welcome back to our election coverage. Now, with the votes of Inquista and Spain, we can see that the EPA is up 2 in both elections, the PEL is up 1 in the Premier election, and 2 in the Internal election, and the independents and up 1, individually, but down 2 and 3 in the premier and internal race respectively.
I am now joined by Jean-Claude Juncker, who is running for Premier of the Commission for the EPA Eurogroup. Welcome, Mr. Juncker.
Jean-Claude Juncker: Hello, thanks for having me.
SDV: The independents have lost 2 votes in the Premier election and 3 votes in the Internal election. What do you make of the independent collapse ?
JCJ: I think it is too soon to comment on the results for independent candidates, but we can see that the independent candidates results are still very low. We will see what the final turnout is.
SDV: What do you think of the limited votes so far ?
JCJ: I think they are really promising for me. I expected to win Inquista and we were really close, so we will need to see what mistake we have done to strike back and win there one more time. There are still many countries to go and I'm confident we will get more votes. Our expectations are simple: we would like to reach the majority of the votes and we hope the campaign and the debate have been helpful.
SDV: And so what is your full prediction right now ?
JCJ: I'm expecting to win the election, but we need to be cautious and wait for the final result.
SDV: Thank you so much for your time Mr. Juncker, and best of luck.
JCJ: Thank you, Stephanie.
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SDV: Hello all and welcome back. We've had a few more results in and we have a shiny new feature - the second round scenario, where we follow the procedure and assign the second and in future perhaps 3rd preferences to the tally, working out who is ahead. Currently, Čikarová and Daggot are winning with 5 votes respectively, to their EPA opponents' 3. This, however, is certainly not a huge lead and there are many EPA nations to come.
To discuss the future of this election in more detail, we're joined now by expert journalist Lex Burnley, an Inquistan commentator for the Europolis Post. Welcome.
Lex Burnley: Hi, thanks for having me.
SDV: It's my pleasure. Firstly, what do you think of the votes so far ?
LB: Things have definitely been going very well for the PEL, and for Sofie Cikarova and Piane Daggot, this evening so far. Of all the votes that have come in, Ruthund and Inquista are the two battleground countries, and both these states have come in for the PEL candidates. The other votes at this point were to be expected. I think both the PEL candidates were considered long-shot candidates, since we have never had PEL commissioners before, but it looks like they could stand a chance now with these sort of results coming in. However, Jean Claude Juncker is definitely a campaign machine, so don't count him out yet, and Emma Granger could have something up her girlboss sleeve as well.
SDV: Look into your crystal ball, and tell me what you think the results will be.
LB: I think both the Premier and the Internal races will be very close. It will definitely come down to 2nd or 3rd preference votes in the end. Cikarova and Daggot are leading right now, but I can see them perhaps later trailing in 1st preferences, but picking up the majority of 2nd and 3rd preferences. Juncker and Granger have the best shot to win the most 1st preference votes, but I don't think they will be popular as down-ballot candidates. If I'm going to be bold, I'd say Daggot has a potential edge to win Internal Affairs, and Juncker has a potential edge for Premier, but things are very much 50/50 right now.
SDV: And so I suppose related to that point, what do you think is causing the move to the left in Inquista ?
LB: Inquistans have always traditionally been more to the left in European affairs than in their home affairs. Archbishop Craticus dominated Inquistan politics at home from 2012 to 2020, leading a strong religious nationalist and conservative movement within the country. Despite this, Inquistans saw Edward Firoux elected as their European Councillor time and time again, with bigger majorities, despite being at odds with Archbishop Craticus and Inquistan nationalists. Now that a new liberal and progressive movement has swept the Inquistan Orthodox Church, we're seeing Inquistans demand a new approach to European affairs as well, and this time, Inquistans are pivoting even more to the left.
SDV: What else do you think we're seeing ?
LB: I think we're also seeing, in Inquista at least, the EPA free-falling in support with the absence of Edward Firoux, who has stepped back from European politics since retiring. There's a big void there, and EPA support is bleeding. Inquistans are looking at Europolis right now, looking for a leading figure, and they just don't see anyone. So I think Inquistans are looking for someone new to represent this new Post-Firoux era. Cikarova, who was originally dubbed 'Sofierce' in Inquista, has a huge base of support and enthusiasm in the country, so people are maybe seeing her as the avatar of the next great European leader.
SDV: Inquista was probably the only country last time to vote for someone with a party backing, what do you make of the total collapse of the independents ? What does that 'lack' of change mean for Inquista ?
LB: It's hard to implement long-lasting change without some sort of cohesive group effort, which often requires some sort of party apparatus or party support. An independent Commissioner can't pass things within the European Council without some sort of Council bloc, and we've seen that now with Premier Cocx and his term. Independents also lack longevity. You're only one person, and with two terms, that means at best you're getting 8 months in office. There's no continuity there once their terms are done. That's not a movement. Parties offer continuity. That's why Inquistans have always turned to the EPA, or now, as it seems, to the PEL, looking for a new approach.
LB: Parties also offer a tangible brand, meaning and discernible characteristics to Inquistan voters. The turnout is way up in this Commission election in Inquista, almost 50%, which is amazing for a European election in Inquista. I'm pretty sure this is a new record. This is because both Juncker and Cikarova are every popular candidates with distinct brands and personalities in Inquista, which helps translate their messaging, and to widespread enthusiasm. Inquistans know exactly what they are about and what they stand for. The same goes for Daggot and Granger too. Koline? Sure she dropped out, but she never really stood a chance anyway. Her platform might've been good, but do Inquistans care? She has no tangible image, no distinguishable personality, no easily recognisable vision, and no movement behind her. 0 enthusiasm. The same goes for Leeson and the other independents.
SDV: Thank you so much for your unique insight on your country's affairs.
LB: No problem !
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SDV: Here are the results so far.
Daggot progresses to the 2nd round due to her 2nd preference from the UD, and rises to 6 votes in the final round due to the 2 second preferences from EPA countries. This means that as of now she would win - but how convincing would this be, really ?
Second preferences are proving to be crucial in the IAC election and to, still, a considerable extent right now in the Premier Election. What is a danger for Daggot is if Granger gets an extra first preference, or Leeson managed to secure the votes of 3 other countries. This is certainly well within the range of possibility as there are many Euro-sceptic nations out there. Piane is doing amazingly well on second preferences, but really needs to step up her game on 1st preferences if she is going to stand a chance.
Čikarová's lead may look large, but it will undoubtedly shrink as more EPA nations vote. There are several traditional EPA heartlands that could go either way, but many still lean heavily to Juncker and the EPA. For this reason we will not be calling the Premier election for quite a while, despite this early lead.
In addition, Juncker's popularity seems to be greater than the continent-wide popularity of the EPA, with many people breaking away to Biden, and to a lesser extent, Leeson, in the Internal election.
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European Commission Elections: 5 Questions for Eilidh Whiteford
The Europolis Post sat down with Eilidh Whiteford, the Korojaunu of (Free) Icholasen, the most-elected Premier Commissioner in European Union history, and popularly-anointed "Super Queen", to discuss the state of the current European Commission race. We asked her 5 questions, and these are her answers.
Korojaunu Whiteford, thank you for making time for us today!
No, thank you! It's my pleasure.
Let's go straight to our first question. What do you make of the results so far, and what, if anything, has surprised you?
I think the support for Biden has been surprising - he didn’t campaign much at all, really. He was not present in people’s lives or on their screens. His debate performance was relatively non-existent.
Perhaps people want that, they want a quiet Commissioner who isn’t malarkey-ing around - so to speak.
I think Biden has also consolidated some of the more Eurosceptic voters, accelerationists who want to destroy the EU by having someone with hopelessly unachievable goals that will never become law, and someone so inexperienced, without the necessary gravitas or charisma to do anything of worth.
Commission elections have often been slam-dunk victories for the EPA in the past. Now, the EPA seems to be struggling in these elections. What's going wrong for them?
I honestly have no idea. Juncker and Granger are on paper incredibly qualified. I would hazard a guess that people want change. But I think they will both scrape through in the end.
I also think the PEL have moderated their unacceptable radicalism, so, really they are not even much different than the EPA, just a little bit more Eurosceptic. They have sort of organised the dissident Eurosceptics who want change, but I am almost certain if they are elected, which is unlikely, their policy agenda will not prove the upset that people think.
You've been elected Premier three times, although you only served twice. What does it take to win a Premiership election?
I think an engaging campaign is important - Juncker did so well at that for his IAC elections, but I think maybe he needed to come up with something new this time? Again, I still think he will win, just with a closer margin.
Even if it is close though, it does not make it less of a win for any of the EPA candidates. Many of my elections were relatively close, and my candidatures were fruitful.
Icholasen has come up a lot in these election conversations and debates. As Korojaunu of (Free) Icholasen, what sort of initiatives would you like to see from the incoming Premier or Internal Affairs Commissioner?
I would like the policy of Cocx to continue, frankly. The EU cannot and should not legitimise rogue states - it really isn’t how the world should work. We need to be steadfast in our resolve to defend freedom.
If Piane Daggot is elected, your government has said you'd grant her Nicoleizian citizenship so she can serve in her role. Yet, you've also said you won't work with her. How would your navigate her Commission term? Would you ever work with her colleague, Sofie Čikarová?
Oh, Piane already has full citizenship. We will not deny citizenship to anyone fleeing the UNSR, like she did. We have, however, decided to allow her request to be nominated by us. Since she stands no chance. It is always fun to have joke candidates running - adds a little spice to the elections, don’t you think?
But yeah, she will not win. I really don’t think she has it in her, the poor dear. She is losing in first preferences to Biden right now who had no campaign - when the EPA first preferences come in she will be buried.
We would not do any work at all with Čikarová - we will not discuss with anyone who denies us our right to nationhood. Simple as.
The PEL will lose on Friday, most likely fairly badly, and they will have no one to blame but themselves.
Wow, you have not minced your words or held back at all. You really are still that bitch, and we won't forget. Thank you for your insight! Keep winning, queen.
Baby girl, I know. You're welcome.
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Stephanie DeVey: Hello and welcome back ! We have had a few more results in, and Granger is back in the race ! Both PEL candidates are on 9 to their opponents' respective 5 - a lead of 4. Biden no longer has the votes to progress to the second round, and we are unsure if he will get the votes to surpass Granger.
We now speak to the person in the lead for the Premier race - PEL high-up, Sofie Čikarová. Welcome Ms. Čikarová.
Sofie Čikarová: Thanks for having me on the show, Stephanie.
SDV: How confident are you that you will be Premier Commissioner come next Friday ?
SČ: I am fairly confident, I know that me and my supporters did all that is in our power and the results so far are very positive. I of course don't understimate Jean-Claude Juncker, but I certainly wouldn't want to be in his skin right now. Not because he is behind right now, but because he must have come to the sudden realization. EPA in its arrogance had always ignored the people amd their struggles, they always thought it will be possible to just stroke deals with few elites while ignoring the people, and to their horror suddenly the people in many pleces in the Union said enough is enough. They discovered their power, which rightfully terrifies EPA. So we could see Juncker resort to fearmongering, why else would he resort to that if he was not afraid of us? First his accusing of me and the respected Dr. Koline of being "twins" to claiming that without him the Union will "dissaper". "La Union c'est moi!" cries Juncker and it is up to us to respond to tell him that that is not the case. We are the Union. And we won't be silenced or intimidated.
Still, without understimating, it is clear that if Juncker will manage to win, it will happen only because of millions people were silenced, like in the case of Icholasen.SDV: What do you make of the results for Internal Affairs Commissioner ? Do you think you will be able to work effectively as a team with whoever wins, or just Ms. Daggot ?
SČ: I think Piane Daggot is doing wonderful and we have a chance at having an entire Commission that stands up for the people and the sovereign member states. There is no doubt that such Commission would be greatly effective. Ms. Daggot is a fantastic politician and I am very proud that I had the privilige of running alongside her. I think that we during our candidacy showed exellent teamwork and co-operation and I once again urge any who consider to vote for me to vote also for Ms. Daggot. But in a hypothetical scenario I am sure I will be able to co-operate with any possible Internal Affairs Commissioner.
SDV: Your party has never been in office before - are you ready for governance ?
SČ: Absolutely. On the other hand EPA's candidates already were in office and they have proven themselves to never be ready. But I am ready to work closely with the Council and the member states and do my best for the trust that would be put into me.
SDV: There are many governments hostile to you and your agenda - what would you say to them ?
SČ: Let's sit down and talk. I am ready to listen to you and I have my firm beliefs that won't change, you will always know what to expect from me. I am not changing my positions frequently just to attract more popularity. But I am always willing to listen to you and find solution with you together. Nobody will be overlooked.
SDV: And so, to get a better idea of what your Premiership might be like, what will be your first act as Premier ?
SČ: Meet with the Councilors to discuss putting the plan of subsidization of productive forces and essential services into action. It is our duty to pass such a motion to quickly help nations like Alkharya, while also making sure that this plan will work and will nit be punishing towards any country.
But solving the crisis with Icholasen is just as important, I can't tell you when we would solve this crisis but I guarantee to you, that we shall yet see people in Icholasen and close countries like Fremet and Ruthund stand together without any fear of a conflict, enjoying their lives like brothers and sisters.
SDV: And now for a more light-hearted question. You have a cult following around Europe - what is it like being so stanned ? What do you make of the monicker 'Sofierce ?'
SČ: It is a wonderful feeling and it fills me with much joy everytime. The people I meet are always amazing, friendly and welcoming. But this isn't just about me. Our programs resonates with the people, empowers them. Without it there would be no "Sofierce", which is a cute nickname and I am flattered, and it is up to me and you, the listeners to keep this program alive, to not yield. In that we must all, every one of us, remain fierce. Huge thanks to all those who still are with us and who perhaps finally will get to see another, free and inclusive Europe.
SDV: Thank you for coming on the show !
SČ: Thank you very much Stephanie, may you and your audience have a great day. Maybe we will have to have a great four months.
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Tusk and Juncker's Press Conference after the Spaniard defeat on the Premier Elections
Tusk: "There is a lot of damage done to the EPA, and we have 4 months to revert that. But we have had better results than the last time."The myth is over; Juncker was not undefeatable. The Spanish former Internal Affairs Commissioner has been defeated by the Czech candidate from the Party of the European Left, Sophie Čikarová, who has won typical pro-Juncker places like Inquista or Alkharya, with the last onepossibly being won by Juncker if the legislature hadn't voted. It's still unclear what Fremet, the Duxburian Union and Gadalland & Aspern, along with a possible vote from Kaitsja, will do, but we can project (and the European Progressive Alliance does too) that the Party of the European Left will win Permiership, and surely will do the same with the Internal Affairs Commission.
Donald Tusk, the new European Progressive Alliance chairman; and Jean-Claude Juncker, the EPA's Premier Commissioner candidate, have appeared on a Press Conference which wasn't the happiest one that could have been seen in the EPA's history, but it was at least optimistic. Jean-Claude Juncker spoke first, being very critic with himself: "I wasn't fully ready to fight for such an important position, and that can be seen even today. I wasn't 100% ready, but we have still done a huge effort and a nice campaign, even the results aren't the best ones or those we expected. Still, I have made lots of mistakes and not recognising them would be hypocritical. But, at the same time, I believe new things should be done, change should happen and so I will run again in 4 months or less if a by-election takes place. I congratulate Ms. Čikarová for her victory and wish her the best of luck for the upcoming 4 months."
The new chairman and Deputy Speaker of the European Council, Donald Tusk, spoke next: "It is obviously not the expected result, but Jean-Claude has done an amazing and valuable job despite all that took place during the campaign. There's a lot of damage done to the European Progressive Alliance; you don't need to go very far from here, we have lost on many states that previously sided with us. And that is because we haven't known how to manage the party in the opposition. I have recently taken over the group, the atmosphere is sad because we want to win and we have 4 months to revert that. But we cannot forget that the man who ran last time got worse results than those Juncker got at the moment, so it is clear we are seeing some light from the end of the tunnel. We will come back stronger, and now let's see what happens in the IAC race and if we get some happy news."
The Kingdom of Spain
