November 6, 2020
Dear Friend:
This week’s e-mail is all about the numbers. From updates on the Coronavirus to voter turnout, sharing accurate data is the best way to stay informed.
Shattering Records: Election Turnout
As I write this, we are still awaiting official results on the Presidential election. While the canvassing and legal challenges are still ongoing, we do know that Maryland’s 10 Electoral College votes will go to Vice President Joe Biden and Senator Kamala Harris. A record-shattering 160 million Americans voted in this critical election. Over 6 million were first-time voters– roughly 2.6 million of whom were over 40.
Although we are mostly focused on the White House and Congress, here’s some other data worth sharing. I was delighted to see that the Sitting Judges all retained their seats on the bench. Thanks to those of you who considered my recommendations. I appreciated the discernment of the voters on the six ballot measures.
(Still) Fighting for Constituents
Since March, one of the terrible legacies of COVID has been people losing their jobs. In fact, 18,000 new Unemployment Insurance (UI) claims were filed in Maryland just this week. Collecting earned UI benefits continues to be a challenge, and the issue isn’t going away anytime soon. Of the hundreds of constituents who have contacted me, nearly 50% of the cases are still pending. The Department of Labor is now rolling out a third new process for tracking claims. If you are struggling, please complete my Unemployment Insurance Assistance Form.
We did get some good news from a constituent this week!!
“I am thrilled to report that I received my unemployment insurance debit card in the mail this afternoon with the correct amount of funds attached. I would like to thank you and your whole team for the fantastic support you have offered in this difficult time. This outcome has made a huge impact on my ability to cover my bills and support my family as we push through this pandemic.”
Hopefully, the Department of Labor will deliver more good news to those who are still waiting for the funds they are owed.
Breaking Down COVID Data
The Coronavirus is surging again across the country– but what does that mean here? There was a 9.3% increase in cases this past week, leaving Montgomery County at “high risk for transmission.” You can find a comprehensive daily report on the MoCo COVID dashboard. Remember, COVID tests are free.
I had an opportunity to chat with Charlie Scott from the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) on a recent episode of “Kibbitzing with Kagan.” He discussed the steps that Metro has taken to protect the health and safety of riders during this pandemic; support for public transportation; and equity in transit.
Keep an eye on your inbox, and I will continue to provide info that I find helpful, thoughtful, and important. Please consider checking out my Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Website, and YouTube channel. If you have any questions or comments, send me an email.
Best,
Cheryl
Cheryl C. Kagan
State Senator, District 17
(Rockville & Gaithersburg)
PS: As the pandemic continues, many are trying to make the numbers work for college or grad school tuition. My spring semester Senatorial Scholarship application is now available! The deadline is Monday, November 30th at 5 pm.
(301) 858-3134
Cheryl.Kagan@senate.state.md.us