An Alabama man who claimed the federal government had no authority over him has lost an appeal on fraud charges.

The conviction of James Timothy "Tim" Turner of Skipperville was upheld by a federal appeals court in Montgomery last week. Turner was convicted last year of conspiracy to defraud the government, attempting to pay taxes with a fictitious financial instrument, obstruction and failing to file a 2009 tax return.

Testimony during his trial showed Turner - who claimed to be the leader of a "sovereign citizens" group called Republic of the united (sic) States of America - traveled around the country to teach seminars on preparing fake bonds that could be used to pay taxes and other debts. The FBI began an investigation after Turner and three other individuals sent demands to all 50 governors in the United States ordering each governor to resign within three days or be "removed."

Turner said his trial should have been delayed because federal courts have no jurisdiction over him. He also claimed the judgment against him couldn't be enforced because it didn't contain the court's seal or signature of the clerk of court.

The appeal judges disagreed on both counts. Turner faces 18 years in prison.

Here is what else is going on around Alabama's political scene:

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Alabama governor, attorney general, lieutenant governor to face challengers in Orange Beach

Louise Alexander's Republican opponent, Darius Foster, filed ethics form late

Mark Lester to officially announce candidacy for District 6 tonight at OTM Dems meeting

Not a caretaker governor: Bentley promises further action on jobs, roads and prisons if re-elected