Shane:

In both SLD and Hostage, it is stated that Blake's crusade, officially, does not exist. If as far as everyone's concerned Blake's on Cygnus Alpha, how would the charges against him be relevant in terms of popular support?

Bercol: My department has done all in its power to suppress information about Blake and his actions -- there is a total blackout on all reports concerning him -- but still the stories get out. They spread by word of mouth, by whispers, by rumour; each time the story is told it is elaborated upon. Any damage to the Federation is attributed to Blake. The smallest incident is exaggerated out of all proportion until it becomes a major event. Blake is becoming a legend. His name is a rallying call for malcontents of all persuasions. He must be stopped. [from Seek--Locate--Destroy]

Additionally, several of those who meet Blake recognise his name, providing further evidence that the information black-out is less than perfect.

I guess, however, I was talking mainly about AU or PGP stories where Blake ends up fighting more directly for the presidency and where popular support might be key to success or failure.

One could imagine scenarios where Blake toppled the Federation administration, held free elections on Earth, and was soundly defeated on an anti-child abuse platform....

Tavia