Tiberius Claudius Nero walked to the rostra to give one final speech on his nephew's behalf:

"Sons of Mars,

Voting has now begun. It is now your chance to perform one of your most vital civic duties, which is of course to vote.

Many of you may know me already, but incase you do not, my name is Tiberius Claudius Nero, Consul of 202 BC, and more recently I was the defendant of Cato in his Perdiullo case.

I am here one last time, to tell you about a man, who is worthy of your vote. His name once again, is Publius Claudius Nero.

I have heard many allegations, and many harshfull words from other Consular candidates and their supporters at the expense of Publius Claudius Nero. And I would just like to say, all of these petty comments are wrong.

For starters, Messala claims that Publius Claudius Nero only fought one good battle. Well I'd just like to ask you, what battle ever has Messala fought in? Has he ever held a gladius for Rome? I think not.

Secondly, I've heard rumors that my nephew has taken many of the funds he was given for being Praetor of Sicily, in order to use it for his own gain. All you have to do to realize the falsity of this lie is to simply read the financial records of Sicilia to know that Nero fairly spent all of his money on a fleet. That is right, he sacrificed all of his funds and incurred large debts for the citizens of Sicilia, because he could not bare to let them suffer.

There is not much more to say then I already have. Nero is an honorable man, a courageous man. I don't have to remind you of Iturissa, and I don't have to remind you of his willingness to fight for your rights. When he was only a Senator, Consul Scaurus allowed for the barbarians to almost sack Rome, and Nero spoke on your behalf to let the Consul have it. He has always been willing to do what is right, no matter what sacrifices he must incur.

So vote for Publius Claudius Nero, those who do will have a grand year next year.