With last night's recall victory, Governor-elect Schwarzenegger of California and Governor Pataki of New York issued a joint declaration of secession from the United States and the formation of a new nation to be known as "Austria-Hungary: the Sequel". Late reports from Europe indicate that Otto von Habsburg, 91, has been offered the crown and has accepted the title of King-Emperor. In a telephone interview, von Habsburg indicated goodwill toward the remaining 48 states, and offered US President George Bush the title of Prime Minister, provided he vacates the White House, which is to be renamed Neu-Schoenbrunn under terms of the proposed accord. Schwarzenegger, singing "When Irish Eyes are Smiling" for the 863rd time this evening, with his hands sewn in his (own) pants pockets, could not be reached for comment. Meanwhile, Pataki told BSU News "It's just truth in advertising. After all, we are the Empire State."
