for all-explore techer, you want to go Republic during the explore phase, and then switch to democracy only once you reach about 12k acres, which should take about 12 days
its up to him/her if he/she wants to go 1st as rep and then later to switch demo or something else (and get 14% losses of everything which can't be put on market or ps'd out incl. bonuses).
Patience: Yep, I'm with ELK and Marshal.
ELKronos: Patty is more hairy.
Gallery: K at least I am to my expectations now.
LadyGrizz boobies is fine
NOW3P: Morwen is a much harsher mistress than boredom....