The U.S. Republican Presidential race has tightened, and President Obama is facing a firestorm of protest from many sides, with his decision to cancel the Keystone oil pipeline from Canada to Texas. Connie Lawn sends us this audio report.

Ron Paul and Stephen Colbert are also technically in the race, at least in South Carolina - arguably spoilers, and not real candidates. Herman Cain's name is on the ballot, and maybe Huntsman. The Primary is on New Zealand's Sunday.

In the New Year's honours Connie lawn was awarded and Honorary New Zealand Order of Merit. Here is Connie's response and and an interview for Scoop.