Conrad

FREEDOM CAUCUS BACKROOM DEAL TO END RIGHT TO WORK REVEALED General President of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters James P. Hoffa has told POLITICO that a member of the Freedom Caucus, Senator David Stewart had met him with a proposition that has raised eyebrows across the political spectrum. The deal purportedly involved the Republican seeking Hoffa's public opposition against Republican candidate for Wisconsin Senate Governor Scott Walker in exchange for supporting national right-to-unionize legislation. Sources close to the matter revealed that the Republican made a direct plea to Hoffa, emphasizing the potential benefits of his opposition to Governor Walker. The crux of the deal centered around Stewart's commitment to backing legislation aimed at establishing a national right-to-unionize policy, effectively ending right-to-work. In exchange, the Republican sought Hoffa's vocal disapproval of the Republican Senate candidate, a move that would carry significant weight within union circles but of course given Walker's record as Governor, it was likely a position Hoffa was already going to take. The union leader, known for his steadfast advocacy for workers' rights, maintained that his focus remains on advancing policies that benefit working-class Americans, irrespective of party lines. Reacting to the news, political analysts and commentators have expressed astonishment at the audacity of the proposed deal. The revelation of this clandestine negotiation has sparked a debate within Republican circles and some have even called it a clear betrayal of Republican values. This entire saga underscores the lengths to which some politicians are willing to go to secure support or gain a strategic advantage in electoral battles.

Fort Bragg, North Carolina - Grief shrouds Fort Bragg this morning after a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter went down during a routine training exercise, killing all six servicemen aboard. Details surrounding the crash remain scarce, with officials citing an ongoing investigation by the Army Combat Readiness Center (USACRC). However, a Fort Bragg spokesperson confirmed the tragic loss of life. "This is a devastating blow to the Fort Bragg community," said Colonel Lawrence Milton, Public Affairs Officer. "Our hearts go out to the families of the fallen soldiers in this time of unimaginable grief. They served our country with honor, and their sacrifice will not be forgotten." The identities of the deceased are being withheld pending notification of next of kin. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, with USACRC officials tight-lipped on any potential mechanical failures or pilot error. Military aviation experts have begun speculating on potential causes, with some citing the Black Hawk's complex maintenance requirements and others pointing to the inherent dangers of night-time training exercises. This incident marks the deadliest helicopter crash at Fort Bragg since 2012, when a CH-47 Chinook went down during a night-time training mission, killing three soldiers. Fort Bragg, home to the XVIII Airborne Corps, is one of the largest military installations in the world. The base has implemented a 24-hour support center for the families of the deceased, offering counselling and assistance during this difficult time. Military aviation safety is sure to be a focal point in the coming days. General Thomas Marks, Commanding Officer of Fort Bragg, is expected to hold a press conference later today to address the incident and offer condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers. The US Army is likely to face intense scrutiny in the wake of this tragedy, with questions arising about training protocols, safety procedures, and the maintenance of its helicopter fleet. In the meantime, the Fort Bragg community mourns the loss of its servicemen. Flags are flying at half-staff across the base, and a memorial service is being planned for the coming days.

Johannesburg, South Africa - China has further solidified its economic and strategic ties with Africa by signing a significant agreement to finance the construction of a major new port in Tanzania, named Port Asaba. It is expected that the port will have capability for deepwater and military use. The deal, valued at an estimated $10 billion, marks a critical development in the ongoing Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and underscores China's expanding influence on the continent. The project, to be undertaken by Chinese state-owned construction firm China State Construction Engineering, will see the creation of a deep-water port capable of handling the world's largest cargo vessels. With a projected completion timeframe of a number of years, the initiative is expected to generate substantial job opportunities within Tanzania. For the African nation, the new port presents a significant opportunity to bolster its trade potential. The enhanced capacity will facilitate more efficient import and export of goods, potentially driving economic growth. However, concerns have emerged regarding the long-term implications of China's growing presence in Africa. "While this agreement offers ostensible mutual benefit," stated Dr. Abena Kwaw, Professor of Economics at the University of Ghana, "Tanzania gains much-needed infrastructure, and China secures access to a strategic location. It is crucial to maintain vigilance regarding potential debt traps and a lack of transparency within these projects." This agreement aligns with China's BRI, a comprehensive infrastructure development program aiming to establish a network of land and maritime routes connecting China to the global stage. Africa has become a key focus of the BRI, with China channelling billions of dollars towards port, railway, and other infrastructure projects across the continent. While some consider China's involvement a positive catalyst for development, others raise concerns about potential neocolonial practices. Critics cite instances where African nations have struggled to repay Chinese loans, leading to anxieties about China gaining undue control over their economies. The construction of this new port is likely to be closely monitored by the international community. The project's outcome will be instrumental in determining whether it serves as a catalyst for economic growth in Tanzania or signifies another instance of China's growing dominance in Africa.

Bovine Encephalopathy Outbreak in Iowa: Authorities Enforce Herd Cull GREENFIELD, IOWA - A shroud of confusion and controversy hangs over Iowa's agricultural heartland following the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (DoA) authorization to cull a cattle herd in Greenfield. The culprit was Bovine Encephalopathy, a previously unidentified viral illness exhibiting troubling neurological effects in infected animals. The DoA, working alongside the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, is scrambling to investigate the cause and potential transmission methods of the virus. Initial reports from local veterinarian Dr. Evan Blake paint a bizarre picture: heightened intelligence and atypical vocalisations in affected cows. "The safety of Iowa's livestock industry is paramount," said DoA Secretary, Bill Northey, in a press release that sent shockwaves through the agricultural community. "While the decision to cull is never easy, we must prioritize the containment of this outbreak to prevent further economic hardship for our farmers." Northeys statement acknowledged the growing protests from animal rights groups like the Iowa Farm Animal Coalition (IFAC). IFAC spokesperson, Ms. Sarah Carter, expressed outrage at the DoA's decision. "These are sentient beings, not commodities! We urge the department to explore all other options, including quarantine and further research." The DoA, however, maintains its stance. "We understand the emotional impact on those connected to these animals," Northey conceded. "However, the DoA is committed to upholding public health standards and protecting the state's agricultural future. A full-scale cull is necessary to prevent the spread of this potentially devastating virus." Researchers at Iowa State University are working around the clock to identify the virus and develop a treatment plan. Dr. Amelia Lawson, head virologist at the university's College of Veterinary Medicine, shared some preliminary findings. "The virus appears to target the central nervous system, causing a unique mutation that enhances cognitive function. The atypical vocalisations are still under investigation, but they could be a form of echolocation or heightened communication." Lawson's findings add another layer of complexity to the situation. The ethical implications of culling potentially intelligent cows have sparked national debate. Meanwhile, the DoA has imposed a strict quarantine around the affected farm, and officials are urging other farmers to remain vigilant and report any unusual symptoms in their herds. It is understood that the Department of Agriculture in Washington is also monitoring the situation carefully.

California in Gridlock After Major Bridge Collapse on I-5 near Sacramento SACRAMENTO, California – A critical section of Interstate 5 near Sacramento collapsed this afternoon, bringing rush hour traffic to a standstill and raising concerns about potential injuries. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has confirmed multiple vehicles were involved in the collapse, but the extent of injuries remains unclear at this time. Emergency responders are on the scene and have begun a search and rescue operation. The collapse occurred on the northbound side of I-5 near the American River Bridge, a vital artery connecting Los Angeles and the Pacific Northwest. The cause of the bridge failure is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest structural damage may have been exacerbated by recent heavy rainfall. A report by the USACE had flagged the bridge as deficient and urged repairs. “This is a major transportation crisis,” said local officials at a press conference this evening. “Our top priority is the safety of those involved in the collapse. We are working tirelessly with emergency responders to locate and rescue anyone who may be injured.” The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has advised motorists to avoid the area entirely. Major traffic arteries throughout Sacramento are experiencing gridlock as drivers attempt to reroute. Commuters are urged to use public transportation if possible. The full extent of the damage remains unknown. Engineers are on-site assessing the situation and formulating a plan for recovery. However, officials warn it could take days or even weeks to reopen the crucial stretch of I-5. “This collapse will have a significant impact on the state’s economy and our way of life,” said an official. “We are committed to rebuilding the bridge as quickly and safely as possible, but this will be a long and complex process.” California residents are bracing for a period of transportation disruption as authorities grapple with the aftermath of the bridge collapse. The coming days will be critical for determining the extent of injuries and the path forward for reconstruction. The economic impact of the bridge closure is expected to be significant. The disruption of the vital trade corridor between Los Angeles and the Pacific Northwest could lead to shortages and price hikes for goods transported by truck. Local businesses in Sacramento are also likely to suffer as commuters avoid the area. Local officials are urging residents to remain calm and to come together in support of those affected by the disaster.

Rising Cyberattacks Strain US Infrastructure Companies across the United States are facing a growing threat from increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks, straining the nation's critical infrastructure. From power grids and water treatment facilities to transportation networks and financial institutions. Experts warn that the frequency and complexity of cyberattacks are on a sharp rise. Malicious actors, ranging from state-sponsored groups to criminal organizations, are employing a wider range of tactics. These include ransomware attacks, which encrypt data and demand payment for its release, as well as data breaches aimed at stealing sensitive information like intellectual property or personal data. A recent high-profile example was the December 2016 cyberattack on the Ukrainian power grid. This incident, just a year after a previous successful attack, targeted the Pivnichna substation near Kyiv. Unlike the 2015 assault that caused blackouts lasting several hours, the 2016 attack aimed for more lasting damage. It employed a new malware variant called Industroyer, designed not just to disrupt operations but to potentially cause physical harm to electrical equipment. Thankfully, due to a combination of quick response by Ukrainian operators and the malware's own limitations, the attack resulted in a power outage lasting just over an hour. Despite not being in the United States, it highlights the need for preparedness. Despite not being in the United States, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the evolving tactics of cyber attackers and the potential consequences for critical infrastructure. The strain on US infrastructure is compounded by two significant factors: the aging of many systems and a shortage of qualified cybersecurity professionals. The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) has repeatedly issued failing grades to US infrastructure, highlighting vulnerabilities. Meanwhile, there's a growing cybersecurity workforce gap, leaving many systems understaffed and potentially exposed. "We're facing a cyber war, and our defenses are woefully inadequate," according to Professor James Whitmore, a leading voice on cybersecurity issues. "Congress needs to act with urgency to provide the resources and authorities necessary to secure our critical infrastructure. We can't afford to wait for the next major attack." The government should begin to actively address these issues, is the call from many experts. Increased resources should be allocated to improve cyber defenses, with a focus on threat detection, incident response, and vulnerability management. However, some experts warn that these measures may not be sufficient. They advocate for stricter regulations on data security, particularly for companies entrusted with sensitive personal information. Additionally, increased funding for cybersecurity research and development is seen as critical to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats. The battle against cyberattacks is a continuous one, with the stakes constantly rising. The United States faces a critical challenge in securing its infrastructure and protecting its citizens from the ever-evolving threat of cyberwarfare.

Report on the State of the US Economy in the First Quarter of 2017 The first quarter of 2017 witnessed a continuation of the economic momentum from the previous year, with several key indicators reflecting overall stability and moderate growth in the US economy. GDP growth during the first quarter remained relatively modest, with the economy expanding a rate of approximately 1.2%. This growth was partly attributed to factors such as consumer spending and inventory adjustments by businesses. Job growth in the first quarter of 2017 remained robust, although at a slightly slower pace compared to the latter part of 2016. Nonfarm payrolls expanded by an average of around 193,000 jobs per month during this period. The unemployment rate remained relatively stable, hovering around 4.7%, reflecting a healthy labor market overall. The labor market continued to show signs of strength, with solid job gains across various sectors. However, wage growth remained moderate, and underemployment persisted as some workers remained in part-time or low-paying jobs despite seeking full-time employment. Nevertheless, labor force participation edged up slightly, indicating growing confidence among job seekers. Consumer spending, a key driver of economic activity, saw modest growth during the first quarter. While consumer confidence remained relatively high, uncertainties surrounding policy changes under the new Congress, particularly regarding healthcare and tax reform, may have tempered spending to some extent. Inflationary pressures remained subdued during the first quarter, with both consumer and producer prices showing modest increases. The Federal Reserve closely monitored inflation indicators as it assessed the appropriate path for monetary policy in the coming months. The Federal Reserve maintained a cautious stance during the first quarter, keeping interest rates unchanged at its March meeting. The Fed continued to emphasize a gradual approach to monetary policy normalization, taking into account both domestic economic conditions and global uncertainties. International trade remained a topic of discussion, with the new administration signaling potential changes to trade policies. However, the impact of any policy shifts on trade dynamics was not immediately apparent during the first quarter. In summary, the US economy in the first quarter of 2017 exhibited signs of stability and moderate growth, with solid job gains, steady consumer spending, and relatively low unemployment rates. While some uncertainties persisted, particularly regarding policy changes, overall economic conditions remained favorable, laying a foundation for continued growth in the quarters ahead.

VIRTUAL GOVERNMENT SIMULATOR ADMINISTRATIVE BOARD MEMBERS ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES Owner: Conrad Oversees the entire game, sets the vision, and coordinates the administrative team. These duties are passed to the lead administrator when the owner is in an "inactive" period. During an active period, the Lead Administrator is formally subordinated to the Owner. Lead Administrator: DMH Oversees the entire game, sets the vision, and coordinates the administrative team when the owner is not in an "active" period. Domestic News and Policy Administrator: Conrad Manages in-game news updates for the domestic side, creates engaging content, and keeps players informed about in-game events. Foreign News and Policy Administrator: DMH Manages in-game news updates for the foreign policy side, creates engaging content, and keeps players informed about in-game events. Economics News and Policy Administrator: Bruce Manages in-game news updates regarding the economy, creates engaging content, and keeps players informed about in-game events. Political News and Policy Administrator: Ollie Manages in-games news updates regarding Congress, fundraising and elections (except where not otherwise delegated). Administrative Support: Jake Handles general administrative tasks, player inquiries, and supports other team members as needed.

General Game Rules Please take note that this thread lays out the general rules for playing the Virtual Government Simulation (VGS), which is the main game hosted on this website. The Terms of Service regulate general activity on this website; this thread solely contains the rules of the governmental simulation itself. Table of Contents WINNING AND LOSING A ROLE-PLAYING GAME CHARACTER RULES CHARACTER MULTI RULES ACTIVITY REQUIREMENTS IN-CHARACTER FORUMS IN-CHARACTER COMMUNICATIONS MEDIA PARTIES/WHIP CARDS MECHANICS IN GENERAL PUBLIC ACTIVITY MECHANICS LEGISLATIVE MECHANICS EXECUTIVE MECHANICS GENERAL CONDUCT FUNDRAISING LOBBYING ELECTION RULES ADMIN TEAM VIOLATIONS WINNING AND LOSING. The administrators of VGS seek to provide a compelling, realistic simulation of United States politics. Just as there is no set definition of winning in politics, there is no set definition of winning on VGS. You can define victory for yourself -- perhaps through being elected president, becoming the most well-known journalist, or just getting a certain policy enacted. Just as there is no defined way to win, there is no way to definitively lose. Indeed, many in politics will seemingly return from the dead - the only way to lose is to give up. A ROLE-PLAYING GAME. The Virtual Government Simulation is a role-playing game, where players sign in characters that compete with others for power and influence. Due to the inherently competitive nature of politics, other characters may betray, backstab, attack, and otherwise horribly treat your character. Yet it is important to remember that you are not your character, and that such nefarious conduct is expected by characters in politics. You should not blame another player for having a brutal, conniving, terrible character; such persons exist in politics, and you should instead thank that player for creating such a great antagonist for your character to fight. Remember, it isn’t personal, it's just business. You are strictly prohibited from lobbying the administrators of this game to enact policy solely because those policies will favor your character – you may advocate on behalf of your interests, but any suggested changes in rulings or decisions should primarily be driven by the idea of bettering the game and the community. As a player, you are expected to promote a robust, healthy community that plays an excellent simulation. You should not sacrifice that merely because your character might be more successful. CHARACTER RULES. A player may create one of each of the following types of characters: Please See Here for More on Character Creation 1- A United States Senator. Depending on which Party you’re representing you will have a variety of States to choose as your home district. It is important to remember that you need to keep the people back home happy and represent their interests and values. If you become popular enough you might even run for President or Vice President. 2- A journalist or the operator of a media outlet (Please see the Player Media Rules). To create a character, post a thread in the character creation forum containing the biography of the character. Every character must abide by the biography guidelines and must be approved by the Administrative Board. Every character that a player creates must be a member of the same political party as every other character that said player has created. The accepted major parties are the Democrats and Republicans and Independents. A player may stop playing a character at any time, but it is at the sole discretion of the Administrative Board to explain the sudden absence of that character. You as a player cannot decide that your character is retiring for health reasons, as an example. A player may change character and/or switch parties after 60 days have passed from their original sign-in, a total of (2) times per round, which means your original round sign-in character plus two more at most. Players, Media, and Game Immersion and Experience stand to benefit from continuity of characters, and it is the policy of the AB to strongly encourage against character changing when not needed. The Administrative Board reserves the right to temporarily waive this rule for the community or an individual to jumpstart community activity, balance and participation. If a player wishes to switch to the opposite party, they may do so. Upon switching parties, they may not do so again for a period of 90 days, even if they completely leave the game during that period. The Administrative Board reserves the right to temporarily waive this rule for the community or an individual to jumpstart community activity, balance and participation. You may simulate the actions of your character and, to a limited extent, your character's staff. You cannot simulate the actions of anyone other than your character and your character's staff including other characters, random persons, crowds, and so on. What's more, your simulation of the actions of your character's staff should be limited to the very reasonable things that they would do in the ordinary course of their work, such as sending a letter on your character's behalf or introducing your character at a townhall. The sole exception to this rule is that at a press conference or town hall meeting, any player may post a question as a random reporter or townsperson, but only if such post is realistic and reasonable. MULTI RULES. A multi is a secondary character which you control. As a Senator you may work your way into a situation where you are asked to serve on the White House Cabinet. In that case you can create a multi to work in the White House while your primary character remains in the Senate. If you are elected to be Vice President, you may create a Senate character as well. If you are the President, you are not allowed to have a multi at all. But don’t worry, you’ll have plenty of things to keep you busy. Anyone is allowed to create and operate a player media character. ACTIVITY REQUIREMENTS. You must participate regularly in gameplay for your character to remain in the game. The definition of regular participation is an in-character post here on the boards. The Administrative Board will automatically sign out your Congressional or media character after three weeks of inactivity, and/or your Executive character after 10 days of inactivity, if you are not on an announced leave of absence. Leaves of Absence can be announced within the respective thread in the Information Center on the boards. You may return to the game at any time after going inactive and reclaim a media character, you may rejoin as a Congressional character as long as no one has signed into your seat since you left, and you may rejoin the Executive Branch only through election or appointment. IN-CHARACTER FORUMS. Each forum located in the Fourth Estate, Capitol Hill, White House, and Elections categories is an in-character forum and any statement made in this forums should be made in-character. Posts in these forums will be considered to be in character statements by one of your characters, including when the post takes the form of a press release, tweet, bill submission, or other clearly different in-character act. If you have multiple characters, and it is unclear from context which character is speaking or acting, you should specify. The Administrative Board will, in the case of a dispute, determine which of your characters was speaking or acting and decide based upon an analysis of the totality of the circumstances. You may only make out-of-character comments in an in-character forum when there is a compelling justification for that out-of-character comment. Please mark the comment in some fashion as clearly OOC, as for example, as follows: ((OOC: Comment.)). Generally, you should not edit any in-character post. We understand that coding issues or typos happen, but the risk of someone making a gaffe in-character and trying to retract it requires posts to remain unedited. If you do have a coding or typo issue, ask an administrator to fix it for you. IN-CHARACTER COMMUNICATIONS. Players may engage in in-character communications outside the in-character forums via any medium including personal message, Discord, and posts in the party headquarters. Communications through Discord is considered out of character unless otherwise specified, as is communication via private message. However, the Administrative Board reserves the right to revoke this assumption and make communications in character if the Administrative Board identifies a compelling interest for these communications to be considered in character for the game. This power will be used sparingly and within reason. The Administrative Board treats in-character communications differently depending on the medium. In-character communications via personal messenger are treated as formal, written communications between characters if both parties agree to the communication being in character. Generally, you may edit a personal message for only five minutes after making that message. In-character communications via other mediums including Discord, third-party instant messengers, and the party headquarters are treated as informal, verbal, unrecorded conversations between characters that cannot be verified. Your character can say whatever s/he wishes about such a conversation but cannot provide any verification that either the confirmation occurred or that certain words were spoken during the conversation. Your character cannot post a transcript of the conversation. The media and public may or may not believe your character's claims that a conversation occurred, or that certain things were said in that conversation; ultimately, it will be a matter of spin. To communicate with the public, you can consult the communication rules. PARTIES. There are two major parties in the United States, the Democratic and Republican Parties. To play a member of Congress or the Executive Branch, one must be affiliated with one of the two major parties, either directly or as an independent aligned with one of the two. Parties expressly have the right, for any reason, to deny membership or ban any player from their Party Headquarters on the forums and Discord channels; in addition, parties may refuse any independent from joining their coalition unless that independent has refused to side with a coalition and has been automatically assigned to the minority. Party bans last a reset and may be renewed if the party deems it appropriate. Parties must elect a Party Chair and their leaders in Congress. It is heavily suggested they also elect a Whip though it is not mandatory. They must also have a Charter approved by at least half of their active membership. Charters may also be carried over from past resets but must be re-approved by a vote of the party membership at the beginning of the next reset. You may post a leave of absence if you are expecting to be unable to play the game for a brief period for out-of-game reasons. During a posted leave of absence, days of absence will not be counted towards the activity requirements above, and your characters will not be penalized in-game for any inaction on any subject. There is generally a one-week limit on leaves of absence, meaning the longest you will receive the benefits of this protection is for seven days. However, the Administrative Board reserves the right to waive this rule in reasonable circumstances. Furthermore, if you take an unreasonable number of leaves of absence during a round, your executive character may be signed out to ensure the game continues operating during your time away. WHIP CARDS Whip Cards are used in the event that a member of a party breaks with a whip issued by Congressional leadership. The Republican or Democratic Leader may use a Whip Card on any Senator during any vote to reduce their total vote in the IVS to 1. Each Republican and Democratic Congressional Leader will receive four Whip Cards per in-game year. You may not carryover unused Whip Cards into the next year and totals reset to four apiece at the start of each in-game year. Player characters lose all Whip Cards upon leaving leadership. Furthermore, in order for a Whip Card to be used, Congressional Leadership must issue a party whip a minimum of 12 hours before the vote in question closes. Whip Cards may be used at any time until the final vote concludes. MECHANICS IN GENERAL. You principally play the game by having your character seek to influence the world around him/her to pursue the goals that you have set for him/her. A character can do this through public activity, and legislative activity if a member of Congress, executive activity if a member of the executive branch, and media activity if a media character. To facilitate this work, a non-media character can engage in fundraising. A player will also be able to influence elections through election mechanics as outlined in the appropriate forum and rules thread. The Administrative Board will simulate the response to player activities through in-game news articles, providing information to player media outlets so they can write in-game news articles, publishing of the approval ratings of Congressional and Executive branch characters, and posting direct non-player-character responses. We'll do our best to provide a truly immersive simulation where you can understand what is happening in the world in which your character lives. Yet we may miss some things; if you ever wonder if a real-life event occurred in-game, please feel free to ask about it in the appropriate thread. Please be mindful that except as otherwise indicated (including in player biographies), all historical events occurring before the in-game start date occurred in real life. Please be mindful that the approval ratings noted above are incredibly important in terms of game play. The Administrative Board produces approval ratings by analyzing the activities of your character with an emphasis on public activity. You'll need to have your Congressional or Presidential character regularly engage in public activities to achieve and maintain a high approval rating; some acclaim can be gained solely through legislative or executive activity, but most voters will know what your character is doing only if your character tells them. There are of course some extraneous factors beyond your character's direct control that will impact your character's approval rating -- the public's view on your character's party, the public's view on the state of the nation, and much more. But your character can impact it, and you should -- because public opinion is amongst the most important things for an elected official to track. PUBLIC ACTIVITY MECHANICS. There are numerous ways that your character can influence the public. You should create a press office thread for your Congressional character in the Character Activities forum and post press releases on that thread to sway the mass media. You should also create a public activities thread for your Congressional character in the character activities forum and post events that your character attends and hosts in that thread, along with any speeches given (you may post talking points in place of a speech). You can create new threads for your character to hold town hall meetings and press conferences in the character activities forum, seeking to sway the public and the media in an interactive environment. Finally, as a member of the Executive branch, subject to the president's approval, you can post press releases and hold press conferences in the White House Press Briefing Room. Take advantage of these resources to make sure as a politician that the American people share your values and views. EXECUTIVE MECHANICS The President of the United States of America holds immense political power and Virtual Government Simulation extensively simulates this influence, generally providing the President the same powers as the president possesses in real life. The president is allotted an entire category for his or her work including the President’s Desk forum (where executive orders are issued, bills are submitted, and other formal actions are taken), the Roosevelt Room forum (a password-protected forum for use in holding bipartisan negotiations), the West Wing forum (containing several sub-forums in which the president discusses issues with advisers and makes key decisions), and the Press Briefing Room. The Vice President also automatically receives access to each of these forums including an office in the West Wing in which the Vice President can engage in his or her own activities. In the case that the President resigns, goes inactive, or is removed from office, the real-life line of succession is employed to determine the new President with the exception that the Speaker of the House which is admin- controlled, is skipped and the succession goes directly to the Senate President Pro Tempore. The President possesses the power of appointment as in real life, though the exercise of this authority is truncated to an extent to facilitate game play. The President appoints Cabinet-level officials, Supreme Court Justices, the Federal Reserve Chair, and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and appointment-oriented scenarios created by the Administrative Board. These appointments take the form of nominations subject to Senate approval. All nominations are assumed confirmed unless the Senate Leader indicates a desire to contest a nomination, in which case the nomination requires confirmation via Senate vote. The Administrative Board will, where necessary, select a non-player character to fill some appointed offices, basing the selection on the president's simulated appointments. A President may nominate other players to serve in their Cabinet or act as their Chief of Staff. The President may not appoint a player character to any other position. There is no simulation of recess appointments in the game. The Director of the FBI and CIA are reserved to the Administrative Board to advise the President on Domestic and International affairs. The President also possesses the power of the veto as in real life. When the Congress passes a bill in-game, the Speaker or the President Pro Tempore will present the bill to the President, who can then either sign or veto it. The President only has five real-life days to either sign or veto the legislation. All bills that are not signed within those five days are considered pocket vetoed. The President is also required to post an inaugural address upon taking office and the State of the Union address twice in his term. The opposition party must in each year in which a State of the Union address is delivered select a player-character to provide a formal response to the State of the Union address. ELECTION RULES Please see here for the Presidential Election Rules: click here. Please see here for the Congressional Election Rules: click here. FUNDRAISING CPAC and Netroots Nation will be held at the beginning of every Congressional session. Speakers target a specific group and make promises to these groups for the party's agenda in the upcoming session. These will be set events and will be listed on the Game Calendar. Once per Congressional Cycle Parties may hold a Gala dinner to raise money. The party will be expected to organize these events themselves before the end of each in-game year. Background fundraising will be released perodically throughout each in-game year by the Administrative Board for parties and players based on your parties and characters performance, approval rating, and other factors. Before elections both Parties may make an application for funding from two PACs. These will not be public. For players, see this guideline for how to interact with PACs/K-Street; click here. Funding earned by individual candidates cannot be given to other candidates. You may transfer your bank account to your party at a 90% penalty. ADMINISTRATIVE BOARD GUIDELINES All Administrators agree to abide by the following guidelines: Administrators are to treat all players with fairness. Administrators are tasked with creating a nurturing, collaborative environment. Administrators are tasked with making decisions that perpetuate play and participation. Administrators are not to provide IC information to a player that said player would not otherwise have access to unless it is in the process of fulfilling their duties as members of the Administration. Administrators are not to access the private accounts of players, specifically private messaging, unless they are acting in their formal duties as an Administrator or have received the permission of the player in question to do so. Administrators are to maintain a reasonable level of activity and participation in the community. Administrators are expected to refer to players respectfully in execution of their duties, both publicly and privately. Administrators are to respond to questions or concerns of players in a timely and helpful manner, unless deemed abusive or the Administration had previously answered to said player or answered in a publicly accessible manner. Administrators may elect to join the game at large after resigning from the Administrative Board. However, there are certain restrictions that apply to their membership in the game. They cannot become party, committee, congressional leadership, or part of the Executive Branch until two weeks have elapsed between their sign in and the assumption of the new office. Additionally, no Administrator can join a party until two weeks after an election result is announced. If an Administrator participated in or graded a Presidential election, they are restricted from joining said Administration in any form.

US Authorities Seek Maximum Penalty for El Chapo Following the extradition of Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán to the United States, authorities have announced their intention to pursue the maximum penalty under law for the notorious drug lord. The US Marshals Service has placed El Chapo under extreme custody measures, reflecting the gravity of the charges he faces and concerns about his potential to orchestrate criminal activities even from behind bars. The decision to seek the maximum penalty comes amidst mounting pressure to hold El Chapo accountable for his alleged role in drug trafficking, money laundering, and organized crime. With the eyes of the world watching closely, US prosecutors are poised to pursue a vigorous legal battle aimed at securing convictions that could result in a lengthy prison sentence, if not life imprisonment. In a related development, Senator van Horn, the Republican whip from Kentucky has introduced a bill aimed at redirecting the proceeds of El Chapo's illicit drug trafficking enterprise towards bolstering border security measures between the United States and Mexico - including a border wall. The proposed legislation, titled the EL CHAPO Act, seeks to ensure that the profits accrued by El Chapo from his criminal activities are forfeited to the US government and earmarked specifically for border security initiatives. It is not yet clear where Democrats stand on the measure, with its only co-sponsors being Republicans. As the legal proceedings against El Chapo unfold and legislative efforts to enhance border security gain momentum, the extradition of the notorious drug lord to the United States has set the stage for a multifaceted approach aimed at tackling the complex challenges posed by transnational crime and border security.

Approved

El Chapo Extradited to United States, Faces Justice for Drug Trafficking Charges In a significant development in the ongoing saga surrounding one of the world's most notorious drug lords, Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán has been extradited to the United States to face charges related to drug trafficking. The extradition marks a crucial step in the pursuit of justice for the crimes attributed to the former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel. After years of legal battles and diplomatic negotiations between Mexican and U.S. authorities, El Chapo was handed over to American authorities earlier today. His transfer from Mexico to the United States comes amidst heightened security measures, reflecting the high-profile nature of the case and the concerns surrounding his history of notorious escapes. El Chapo's extradition to the United States is a culmination of efforts by U.S. prosecutors to hold him accountable for his alleged role in drug trafficking activities that spanned decades. He faces multiple charges, including drug trafficking, money laundering, and involvement in organized crime. The extradition of Joaquín Guzmán, who once held immense power and influence in the world of international drug trafficking, underscores the collaborative efforts between Mexican and U.S. authorities in combating transnational crime. It also represents a significant victory for law enforcement agencies in both countries, who have long pursued El Chapo as a symbol of the illicit drug trade. The notorious drug lord's journey through the criminal justice system has been marked by dramatic escapes, high-profile arrests, and sensational trials. El Chapo gained international notoriety for his audacious prison breaks, including his escape from a maximum-security prison in Mexico through a tunnel in 2015, as well as his subsequent recapture and extradition to the United States in 2017. His extradition to the United States for trial is expected to lead to a landmark legal proceeding, with prosecutors seeking to secure convictions that could result in a lengthy prison sentence, if not life imprisonment. The trial is anticipated to shed further light on the inner workings of the Sinaloa Cartel and its extensive network of operations, as well as El Chapo's role in orchestrating drug trafficking activities that spanned multiple continents. The extradition of Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán to the United States represents a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice for the victims of drug trafficking and organized crime.

President LeClavers

The nomination of Paul Watford is a stark reminder of why we need to say in this fight, and for the battles that lie ahead. His record speaks volumes. He advocates for sanctuary cities, undermining the rule of law and jeopardizing the safety and security of American families. He has even gone so far as to defend a cop killer against the death penalty out in Kentucky, aligning himself with extreme positions that fly in the face of justice. This is not a man we want replacing Antonin Scalia on the Supreme Court! But our fight is not merely against one individual; it is a fight for the soul of our nation. It is a fight for the right to life, for the protection of the unborn who cannot speak for themselves. It is a fight for our second amendment rights, which are enshrined in the Constitution and must be fiercely defended against any encroachment. And it is a fight for religious liberty, the bedrock of our society, which must never be eroded by the forces of secularism and intolerance. We cannot afford to sit idly by while our values are under attack. We must stand up and speak out, rallying our fellow Americans, our neighbors, people who care about their values, and say enough is enough. We must hold our elected officials accountable, demanding that they uphold the principles on which this nation was founded. And we must never lose sight of the fact that the future of our country hangs in the balance. President de La Cruz claimed she was a moderate and spoke for the average American. We're not seeing the puppet strings be slowly revealed in real time. This is should worry everyone in this room, because it's clear now more than ever: de la Cruz is not who she claimed to be. Despite the challenges we face, I am confident that we will prevail. We are a resilient and resourceful people, guided by the enduring principles of freedom, justice, and opportunity for all. And with your support and dedication, we will overcome any obstacle that stands in our way. Conservatives united in the cause to defend our scared values are the strongest force on this earth, second only to the might of our military. We have the influence. We have the power... so let us stand together, united, and say no to Watford and extremist left wing judges. Let us go forth from this gathering with renewed determination and unwavering resolve. Let us redouble our efforts to defend the values that define us as Americans. And let us never forget that, in the end, it is our faith, our courage, and our unity that will carry us through to victory. Thank you, and God bless America.

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Name: John Miller Party: Republican Faction: Republican Study Committee Avatar: Ted Budd Place of Birth: Terre Haute, Indiana Place of Residence: Indianapolis, Indiana Gender: Male Date of Birth: 14th March, 1964 Family: Marie Miller (wife), Kylie Miller (daughter), Cathy Miller (daughter) and Julie Miller (daughter) (0 points) Wealth: Top 1% (5 points) Religion: Mainline Protestant (0 points) Race: White (0 points) Educational History: University of Pennsylvania (BA) (10 points) (1982 - 1986) Occupational History: CEO, Miller Family Sporting Goods and Hunting Surplus (30 points) (1986 - 2010) Electoral History: Indiana House of Representatives (2004- 2006) (1 point), United States Representative, Indiana's 3rd Congressional District (2006 - 2010), United States Senator from Indiana, Class III (2011 - Present)

There will be no standalone HBCU legislation WASHINGTON DC - Senate Majority Leader Fealty spoke to members of the press on the recent POLITICO article regarding the status of HBCU funding legislation. "There will be no standalone HBCU legislation that the Senate will consider. The historic funding package for the colleges and universities was tied to legislation that would allow to America prosper, as the name of the legislation suggested. We are not going to begin dissecting bits and pieces of that financial package and pass parts of it while letting other parts fall by the wayside. That is not how we get our country back on track. Senate Democrats made a political decision not to support that package and we are not about to let them have their cake and eat it, so to speak. With the resulting negotiations that have came off the back of their decision not to support PROSPER, the inclusion of the funding for HBCUs may become part of those discussion but we will not know until they are proper underway."

Name: Jim Fealty Media/Outlet: Fox News Reason: PROSPER It's about putting more money in the pockets of everyday Americans. By protecting and expanding Medicare, we are ensuring our seniors receive the care they deserve, while simultaneously boosting the financial well-being of hardworking families across the nation. This is the aim of the Republican bill to tackle inflation. Let's talk about the other side. While we present a clear and comprehensive plan, it seems the Democrats are lacking a plan altogether. It's easy to criticize, but where are their solutions? Where is their commitment to fiscal responsibility and the well-being of everyday Americans? We've heard a lot from them on their talk shows and in the press, but they lack any real plan or direction. We face economic challenges that demand bold solutions - from rising inflation to a fiscal cliff with our Medicare program. This bill is a testament to our unwavering belief in limited government, the elimination of excessive regulations and putting an end to wasteful spending. We're not just crunching number, we're making a statement about the kind of America we want to build. Low taxes, more growth and more financial security for American families. American families will know that it is the failure of the Biden Administration as to why we see inflation still at record highs and its why they have entrusted Republicans in Government to steady the ship. It is time we reaffirm our commitment to conservative values that will propel America towards a future of fiscal responsibility and prosperity.

Senator Fealty elected President pro tempore of the Senate WASHINGTON DC - Senator Jim Fealty has been elected as the President pro tempore of the Senate, following the last Senator from Mississippi to do so, John C. Stennis. "I am truly honored and humbled to have been chosen as President pro tempore of the Senate. I am committed to working tirelessly to advance the interests of the American people and to uphold the values that make our nation great. As President pro tempore, I hope to play a pivotal role in shaping legislative priorities, facilitating bipartisan cooperation and ensuring the smooth operation of the Senate. The people of Mississippi can take pride in my new role, knowing that I will continue to champion their interests on the national stage. My first priority will be to get the Access to Credit for our Rural Economy Act to the President's desk."

Fealty backs farmers in amendments to Access to Credit for our Rural Economy Act WASHINGTON DC - Senator Fealty submitted amendments to the Access to Credit for our Rural Economy Act which is currently up for debate on the Senate floor, expanding support specifically targeted to farmers, which are the core of rural economies. "Our farmers are the lifeblood of our communities, and it's essential that we provide them with the targeted support they require to thrive. We can ensure that the expansion of credit to rural businesses is not only comprehensive but also specifically tailored to address the challenges faced by our hardworking farmers who are often the lifeblood of rural economies. This was already a great bill, no doubt. But I thought we could just go that little bit extra for our farmers. My amendments would expand the farm and ranch stress network, expand the noninsured crop program. expand rural business development grants and farm ownership loans. Lets ensure this bill is a good one."

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Name: Michael Allen Media/Outlet: FOX News Reason: Aid Bill 1. “We must ensure aid for Ukraine's defense against aggression, but it's also crucial for them to begin receiving aid with a responsible repayment plan agreed or use of the lend-lease so that American taxpayers are not perpetually financing a war. Our assistance should foster self-reliance and fiscal accountability.” 2. “By structuring aid to Ukraine with a repayment mechanism, we encourage fiscal responsibility while demonstrating solidarity in their fight for sovereignty and democracy. Its time for Democrats to get on board and realise that we cant fund this fight forever.” 3. “Senate Democrats are being completely irresponsible by refusing to pass aid for Israel without delay. Israel remains a beacon of stability in a volatile region and that is why we need to show our resolve by passing the Securing Israel Act.” 4. “Supporting both Israel and Ukraine isn't just about monetary aid, it's about upholding global stability, promoting democracy and securing our national interests. We all want to support both nations but we need to work out a responsible way of doing that.”

Allen demands accountability in Ukraine Aid Washington DC - Senator Allen has been steadfast in demanding accountability regarding the allocation and usage of aid provided to Ukraine, while demanding that the Senate immediately pass aid for Israel. "Ensuring transparency and accountability in the allocation of aid to Ukraine is not just a fiscal responsibility but a strategic necessity for our nation. We cannot continue to sink billions of dollars into Ukraine when the situation is stagnant, its as simple as that. I have advocated for the extension of the Ukraine Lend Lease Act so that President Biden may loan or or lend military equipment to Ukraine. This will allow Ukraine to avail of American military stockpiles at their own expense while American taxpayer dollars are not being squandered abroad. Its time for the Democrats to see reason and pass an extension to the lend lease act while also supporting Israel in their fight against Hamas."

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