The Daily Countable: Franken, Food Stamps & Fighting For Net Neutrality
Join us and tell your reps how you feel!
Happy Thursday, friends! Another busy day in Washington. Let's get right down to it.
One Big Thing
The biggest news today is the resignation of Sen. Al Franken (D-MN). Our great partners at KSTP in the Twin Cities shared with us this great report, featuring video of Franken's speech on the Senate floor, as well as responses from many of his colleagues in Minnesota. You should check it out.
On the Radar
The final days of the Net Neutrality fight continue with protests at Verizon stores and, this evening, at the FCC Chairman's dinner. Why Verizon stores? Check out the article and we'll tell you!
Under the Radar
Food stamps, otherwise known as SNAP benefits. 1 in 8 Americans receive them, and they aren't cheap for the feds. They cost the federal government about $70 billion annually. But advocates argue they're a crucial, and successful, anti-poverty program. Critics maintain they instill dependence. Now, the USDA is going to allow states greater flexibility to limit access to food stamps by increasing eligibility requirements.
Are you a supporter of the program? Do you think more accountability for recipients is a good idea? Your lawmakers should hear from you! Read our story and then let them know what you think!
Your Gov at a Glance 👀
The White House: President Trump in DC
- The president has a busy day of meetings, with Congressional leaders and the Chairwoman of the RNC.
- He's also sign a proclamation for National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. Read our article about this important moment in U.S. history here.
- Tonight the president and First Lady Melania Trump will host a Hannukah reception.
The House of Representatives: In Session
- Voting on a bill to extend government funding by two weeks and grant temporary access to CHIP funding.
- Voting on a bill to reduce registration requirements for brokers who help small businesses with mergers and acquisitions.
The Senate: In Session
- Confirmation vote on the nomination of Joseph Balash to be Assistant Secretary of the Interior.
Keep in touch, Countable folk. We always love to hear from you.
— Andrea Seabrook, Managing Editor
Talk to Andrea via email, andrea [at] countable.us, or on twitter, @RadioBabe. And don’t forget to keep in touch @Countable.
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