Whip Count: Recent Episodes
Delaware House Democrats
The Delaware House Democratic Caucus presents Whip Count: a journey inside Legislative Hall in a blue state.
On this episode of Whip Count, in honor of Women’s History Month, hear from House Majority Leadership as they discuss their journey in life and the lessons they learned along the way.
On this episode of Whip Count, Speaker Valerie Longhurst along with Alisa Schneidman, Author of the House of Weird, and Patricia May board member from the Delaware Association for Children of Alcohol and Marijuana Dependency discuss the impact and effects of alcoholism on individuals and the family dynamic. Additionally, they discuss the importance of House Current Resolution 83 which designates February 11th to 17th as “Children of Alcoholics Week”, and urges discussions around the effects of alcoholism.
The episode focuses on how to destigmatize discussions around alcoholism and how to break the generational cycle of alcoholism. Author Alisa Schneidman shares the inspiration behind her book House of Weird, and guests discuss their personal stories relating to alcoholism in their families and growing up as a child of an alcoholic.
Before the 152nd General Assembly officially kicked off, we introduced the five new members of our caucus and their plans to make an impact in Legislative Hall.
In part two of our freshmen series, we spoke to Rep. Sophie Phillips about her first legislative session and the surprise lessons she learned along the way.
On the latest episode of Whip Count, Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton and environmental activist Anissa Cartagena join us to discuss HB 220, also known as Delaware’s Green Amendment.
This proposed amendment would enshrine residents’ right to a clean and healthy environment in the Delaware Constitution and make it clear that all branches, agencies and political subdivisions of the state would serve as trustee of Delaware’s natural resources and be responsible for conserving, protecting, and maintaining them.
Before the 152nd General Assembly officially kicked off, we introduced the five new members of our caucus and their plans to make an impact in Legislative Hall.
On this new series, we’ll catch up with these history-making members as they reflect on their first legislative session and the surprising lessons they’ve learned along the way. This week, we sat down with Rep. Cyndie Romer to hear her perspective on her first year in the legislature.
In spring 2023, Gov. Carney, DelDOT, the Delaware Dept. of Safety and Homeland Security, and members of the General Assembly introduced a package of bills designed to improve safety on Delaware's roadways. This week's podcast episode of Whip Count highlights Representative Frank Cooke’s HB 120 and how this bill will assist law enforcement in cracking down on reckless driving in Delaware.
On this episode of Whip Count, Rep. Cyndie Romer joins us to explain her HB 186, a measure that would reduce the number of children placed on the sex offender registry by empowering judges, in consultation with child psychologists and case workers, to decide whether a child should be included on the Registry.
Wilmington resident Anthony Gibbs, who understands firsthand the harsh reality of being on the sexual offender registry as a youth, also joined us to discuss the negative unintended consequences that follow many of these kids into adulthood.
On this episode of Whip Count, we’re joined by Rep. Debra Heffernan, Rep. Sophie Phillips and Emily Knearl from the Nature Conservancy to talk about the Delaware Climate Solutions Act, a bold step toward tackling Climate Change here in the First State.
On this episode, Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton joins us to discuss her HB 62, legislation requiring properties to be assessed every five years. This would allow the state to be fairer in its taxation structure, ensuring that property owners finally have parity.
You can find additional reassessment resources here:
New Castle County: https://bit.ly/3Irf7yn
Kent County: https://bit.ly/43ivB3Q
Sussex County: https://bit.ly/3OqTkeh
On this episode of Whip Count, Rep. Paul Baumbach discusses measures that would put money in the pockets of working Delawareans by increasing the standard deduction and refundable Earned Income Tax Credit.
Recovery housing is an integral part of the recovery journey, providing transitional homes in a substance-free, supportive environment. However, here in Delaware, the lack of standards and regulations for these homes has created difficult and sometimes dangerous situations for individuals recovering from addiction and their families.
On this episode of Whip Count, we talked to Rep. Kerri Evelyn Harris about her new bill, the Matthew D. Klosowski Act, which would create standards for recovery homes to become certified. Matthew's mother, Marybeth Cichocki also joined us to discuss her firsthand and tragic experience with an unregulated recovery home and how that experience led her to advocate for change.
Just before we gaveled out for the February Joint Finance Committee break, the House commemorated Holocaust Remembrance Day with a resolution and an address from special guest David Meluskey of the World Jewish Congress.
This episode of Whip Count features audio from that address as well as a conversation with all three Jewish members of the House, Rep. Debra Heffernan, Rep. Sophie Phillips, and Rep. Jeff Spiegelman as they reflect on what Holocaust Remembrance Day means to them.
Who are the new members in the House? On this episode of Whip Count we introduce you to Representatives Kerri Evelyn Harris, DeShanna Neal, Sophie Phillips, Cyndie Romer, and Stell Parker Selby. The newcomers were recently sworn in at the state capitol, as the 152nd Delaware General Assembly launched its new session.
For these incoming lawmakers, it’s the beginning of a brand new road to rebuilding their communities, and working on critical issues that impact the entire state.
What can you expect? Tune in now to hear what everyone had to say including their answers to some fun questions.
Delaware legislators continue work on criminal justice reform through legislation that would ensure clear and concise quarterly reports of an inmate's behavior.
Under Rep. Larry Lambert’s HB 394, the Delaware Department of Correction would be required to provide copies of quarterly reports of good time credit earned or forfeited.
Tune in to hear from the person who inspired the bill and legislators who support it.
Recognizing the ongoing challenges facing mothers and newborns, Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown introduces us to the 2022 Delaware Momnibus, a series of several bills, addressing issues impacting pregnant and postpartum persons and decreasing infant mortality.
Minor-Brown explains how lawmakers and organizations are working together to tackle child and maternal mortality. She also talks about support for doulas, help for incarcerated pregnant persons, and incentives for new parents.
Collectively, support as well as the series of bills would improve healthy outcomes for all families and infants throughout Delaware.
Tune in now.
This week on Whip Count: The 2022 Delaware Relief Rebate explained, economic policies to help Delawareans become more resilient to inflation, and maintaining a strong and fair economy in the First State
House Majority leader Valerie Longhurst provides listeners with an in-depth explanation of the 2022 Delaware Relief Rebate and gives us a look into the bipartisan brainstorming sessions that lead to HB 360, historic legislation that would enable one-time direct payments of $300 to Delaware resident taxpayers.
Rep. Paul Baumbach and Rep. Ed Osienski also joined us this week to discuss policies they’ve championed over the years that aim to economically empower the most vulnerable in our society and ensure every Delawarean has a fair shot at earning a decent living.
Delaware kids are dealing with an unprecedented mental health crisis, and to address it, Rep. Valerie Longhurst is encouraging more people to normalize conversations around mental illness so more students understand they are never alone.
Annie Slease of the National Alliance on Mental Illness in Delaware is committed to helping students as well by gaining access to the mental health resources they need to succeed.
Learn how you can be a part of the mental health awareness effort and support legislation such as House Bill 301, which would establish a statewide mental health educational curriculum for K-12 students.
In February, lawmakers announced the formation of the Delaware Legislative Women's Caucus, a bipartisan and bicameral coalition of legislators focused on advancing the shared interests of women.
In this episode of Whip Count, the co-chairs of the caucus, Rep. Valerie Longhurst and Sen. Marie Pinkney, discuss the importance of coming together to advocate for change and the caucus's plan to address gender inequities in all facets of our society.
Approximately 5,000 Delaware children lack access to medical coverage due to their immigration status. For these children, a simple trip to the doctor for an illness or to get vaccinated is not a financially viable option.
In this episode, Rep. Krista Griffith, Sen. Sarah McBride, and Yvette Santiago of Nemours discuss a new proposal that would ensure all Delaware children have access to the medical care they need when they need it.
The Cover All Delaware Children Act would establish a state-run medical coverage program for children who are not otherwise covered, including children who are not documented.
People who have been incarcerated often encounter challenges that are very difficult to overcome, which makes it hard for them to build a stable future.
Unfortunately, there is no “quick-fix” solution to employment, education, and entrepreneurship for formerly incarcerated people. However, legislation could help reduce a person’s chances of relapsing into criminal behavior through Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown’s Second Chances proposal.
Haneef Salaam of the ACLU also weighed in with his personal experiences in the criminal justice system to highlight the importance of second chances for all.
Tune in now.
In Gov. John Carney ‘s 2022 State of the State address, he expressed commitment to invest in schools, jobs, economic development, broadband access, and more.
Carney also highlighted some challenges during the pandemic but remained hopeful along with Rep. Krista Griffith, Rep. Deb Hefferenan, Rep. Ed Osienski, Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown, and Sen. Sarah McBride who all reacted to the governor's speech.
Tune in now to listen to reaction and speech highlights.
Representative Larry Lambert is committed to educating people about the federal Justice 40 Initiative, which ensures 40 percent of federal infrastructure funds around climate change, green energy and economic development go toward disadvantaged communities statewide.
Learn how the initiative would help propel Delaware toward environmental justice and how you can get involved, addressing the need to have fair treatment where you live, work, and play.
The historical memories of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Justice hit too close home for Rep. Stephanie T. Bolden who shares personal reflections and what community members can continue to do, creating more hope and opportunity rooted in Dr. Martin Luther King’s dream.
MLK Day allows all people, as individuals and in organizations, to reflect on how they live out the values that our nation honors.
Dr. King’s struggle for justice and the dangers it entailed, serves as a reminder that the work of public servants always required courage and strength to move a dream forward.
In October, many people wear purple for domestic violence victims and survivors. As advocates come together to raise awareness and educate people on red flags, trauma, and the paralyzing fear that mental or physical abuse can have on a person, it’s also important to highlight resources and efforts put in place to help.
On this episode of Whip Count, Rep. Krista Griffith and Lori Sitler of Child, Inc. share what options are available in Delaware as well as discuss legislation that would help individuals in abusive, controlling, or violent situations.
Take a listen and visit https://dvcc.delaware.gov/24-hour-hotline-numbers/ for a list of numbers to call if you are seeking refuge or know someone who needs assistance.
A quality education lays the foundation of a successful future, giving kids the tools and resources they need to reach their goals.
On this week’s episode of Whip Count, House Education Committee Chair Rep. Kim Williams and Vice-Chair Nnamdi Chukwuocha, discuss policy solutions for improving Delaware’s schools and creating a better and more equitable education system for all students, from kindergarteners to adults looking to develop new professional skills.
Tune in to learn more about the many education-related bills passed by the 151st General Assembly and their tangible effects on students, parents, and educators.
Weeks ago, Hurricane Ida brought record-breaking and catastrophic flooding to our region, causing millions of dollars in damages.
As so-called 100-year weather events like Ida become more and more commonplace in Delaware, the lowest-lying state in the nation, lawmakers are working to mitigate the effects of climate change and keep communities healthy by enacting common-sense environmental policies and investing in critical infrastructure.
In this episode, Rep. Eric Morrison and Natural Resources Committee Chair Rep. Debra Heffernan reflect on a few key environmental bills passed by the 151st General Assembly and discuss strategies for addressing environmental concerns in Delaware.
Rep. Kendra Johnson and Rep. Sherry Dorsey Walker reflect on historic advances to tackle systemic racial injustice in Delaware.
In June 2020, the Delaware Legislative Black Caucus unveiled an agenda, packed with bills, addressing police accountability and transparency as well as equal rights and protections. A year later, lawmakers made great strides and accomplished a lot, from requiring police to use body-worn cameras to prohibiting the publication of juvenile mugshots.
Tune in and learn more about important legislation that will protect and improve the quality of life for people statewide.
On Thursday, June 17, lawmakers and advocates came together for a Pride Month rally to announce an historic constitutional amendment that would protect the rights of members of the LGBTQ+ and disability communities.
HB 199 from House Majority Leader Valerie Longhurst and Sen. Sarah McBride would make it clear that all Delawareans are equal regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or disabilities.
The rally was the perfect place of support where people shared powerful stories that you can hear exclusively on this week’s episode of Whip Count. Take a listen.
Delaware’s landmark SEED and INSPIRE scholarship programs have allowed thousands of residents to further their education and develop important skills without the financial burden that often accompanies higher education. Under new legislation proposed by Democratic lawmakers, these programs could be expanded further, making certain Delaware colleges tuition-free for eligible students.
Senate Bill 12 sponsored by Sen Nicole Poore and Rep. Longhurst would expand Delaware’s landmark Student Excellence Equals Degree program, or SEED, which provides scholarship funding to recent high school graduates attending Delaware Tech. Under this new legislation, adults and others previously excluded from this program would be included in the SEED. SB 95, sponsored by Sen Paradee and Rep. Bolden, would increase Delaware’s INSPIRE program, which provides scholarship funding to Delaware State students meeting certain criteria. With this expansion, their full tuition would be covered.
On this episode, we’ll hear more about these scholarships and what they mean for Delaware’s workforce and residents from INSPIRE sponsor Stephanie Bolden and Del Tech President Mark Brainard.
Delaware workers either struggle to balance work, family and health care needs because they don’t have access to unpaid leave. Saving vacation and sick time to make sure a paycheck isn’t missed is also a common reality for some families.
The Healthy Delaware Families Act, a paid-leave policy would allow workers in the state to have 12 weeks off for qualifying life events including emergencies that arise.
Sponsored by Sen. Sarah McBride and Rep. Debra Heffernan, SB 1 would change the state’s business landscape. Learn more about the bill as well as hear from a local teacher who shared a personal story about her support.
That’s the big topic on this episode of Whip Count.
When it comes to campaigning, it's a job that isn't family friendly for candidates. In Delaware, people who are interested in running for a political seat can not legally draw from their funds to take care of child care expenses.
HB 90 would change that, acting as an incentive for young mothers and fathers who are committed to making a difference in their communities.
This topic hits too close to home for Rep. Sean Lynn, Rep. Rae Moore and Sen. Kyle Evans Gay who came together to help explain the bill and share their personal stories from the campaign trail.
Saving for retirement is becoming an increasingly difficult dilemma for workers. In Delaware, as many as 200,000 employees lack access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan.
To address this growing issue, Rep. Larry Lambert has worked with our State Treasurer to introduce the Delaware EARNS program. This act would create a state-sponsored savings plan, funded by employees, empowered by employers, and overseen by the State.
On this episode, Rep. Lambert and State Treasurer Colleen Davis describe the Delaware EARNS Act and its benefits for employees and businesses alike.
Delaware lawmakers consider legislation that would implement a statewide body-worn camera program.
Sponsored by Rep. Sherry Dorsey Walker, HB 195 would require police officers to wear a body-worn camera. The mandate would also require some employees of the Department of Correction and Department of Services for Children, Youth, and Their Families to use body cameras.
Tune in and get up close with Rep. Dorsey Walker, Haneef Salaam of the ACLU and University of Delaware Police Chief Pat Ogden as they discuss accountability, transparency and community trust.
Rep. David Bentz joins leaders from Christiana Care Health System to discuss expanding telehealth services for Delawareans through House Bill 160. According to those who support the proposed piece of legislation, all Delawareans deserve high-quality, affordable health care.
Find out if health care professionals will still be able to meet the needs of patients who don't have access to internet, and how the demand for telehealth services exploded during the pandemic.
Last week, the House passed Rep. Paul Baumbach's House Bill 16, providing low-income individuals financial relief on their income taxes.
House Bill 16 reforms the earned-income tax credit in Delaware so families can receive a few more dollars to help with the everyday financial pressures, from daycare to mortgage payments.
Tax legislation can be as complicated as it is tedious, so to help explain the Earned Income Tax Credit and its benefits for thousands of Delawareans, we’ll hear from bill sponsor Rep. Paul Baumbach and Janice Barlow of KIDS Count Delaware.
Environmental issues affect our lives every day, whether it's flooding on our roadways or the energy used to power our homes. We’re only a few months into the 2021 session, and lawmakers have already introduced several pieces of legislation aimed at addressing issues such as sustainable development and pollution, making it clear that addressing environmental challenges is a priority for the 151st General Assembly.
On this episode, Dustyn Thompson of the Delaware Sierra Club, House Natural Resources Committee Chair Rep. Debra Heffernan, and Senate Environment and Energy Committee Chair Sen. Stephanie Hansen discuss environmental bills being considered in the 151st General Assembly and strategies for addressing environmental concerns in Delaware.
Lawmakers in Delaware have introduced legislation that would legalize and regulate recreational marijuana for adult users, a measure supported by 60% of Delawareans. The Delaware Marijuana Control Act would authorize the cultivation, sale and possession of marijuana, while establishing a new industry with good-paying jobs in the First State.
On this episode of Whip Count, lead bill sponsor Rep. Ed Osienski, attorney Adam Windett, and activist Zoe Patchell address the concerns and economic benefits of legalizing marijuana, and discuss the social injustices tied to the prohibition of cannabis.
Read more about The Delaware Marijuana Control Act here: bit.ly/DEHB150
Legislation designed to legally protect all people from hair discrimination could become law if the Delaware House advances SB 32.
Rep. Kendra Johnson, Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown, and Rep. Nnamdi Chukwuocha came together to discuss the CROWN Act as well as the pressure to alter natural hair textures or change hairstyles in the African American community. Adjoa B. Asamoah, a political strategist leading advocacy efforts across the country also joined the conversation.
Learn more about the CROWN Act, what it means and how it will impact other races as well.
Elementary schoolchildren carry trauma and life experiences with them that immensely impact their school and home situations, and without access to mental health resources, these issues can spiral into full-blown crises.
In Delaware, one school counselor may be responsible for 500 children, stretching their time incredibly thin and almost guaranteeing some children fall through the cracks.
Lawmakers and advocates are fighting to ensure students in elementary schools have access to the resources they need with House Bill 100, which provides sustained funding for school-based mental health professionals such as School Counselors, School Psychologists and School Social Workers.
In this episode, we talked with the sponsors of this bill, Rep. Valerie Longhurst and Sen. Marie Pinkney. We also heard from school-based mental health professionals Emily Klein, Brandon Townsend, and Dawn Hall, and a parent, Chris Locke, who discussed the very real need for increased mental health funding in our schools.
The Delaware legislature typically convenes for session about 45 days a year, however, the job of local legislators goes far beyond passing legislation. Our local “part-time” lawmakers stay busy 365 days a year as they help constituents, meet with organizations and state agencies, and volunteer in their communities.
Currently, the legislature is taking a short break from session while the Joint Finance Committee works on our state’s 2022 budget. This week we caught up with Rep. Larry Lambert, Rep. Rae Moore, and Rep. Krista Griffith and learned about what they’ve been up to over the past month.
Black History Month may kick off in February but it doesn't end there. It's an opportunity to commemorate the achievements of African Americans and learn about men and women who have made great contributions across the world.
Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester and Rep. Nnamdi Chukwuocha share personal reflections on Black History Month, highlighting local people including establishments that are close to their hearts.
Heart disease continues to be one of the greatest health threats to men and women across the globe. This information is highlighted annually during February, American Heart Month to encourage people to adopt healthier lifestyles.
In Delaware, Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown, a nurse and educator shared risk factors, tips, and debunked a popular myth.
Also, Delaware's Dr. Velma Scantlebury, the first African American female Transplant Surgeon in the United States echoed why it's important to commit to a healthy lifestyle year round. Finally, Michelle Taylor, president of the United Way of Delaware weighed in with a personal experience that changed her life forever.
In the last several years, House Democrats have proposed pieces of legislation aimed at addressing education issues such as lack of mental health resources in schools, inadequate special education funding, and teacher retention.
This week, we’ll hear from a few of the lawmakers leading the charge on education equity and fighting to ensure each student gets the education they deserve. Rep. Nnamdi Chukwuocha, Rep. Valerie Longhurst, Rep. Kim Williams, and Rep. Rae Moore discuss a few of the proposals they’re working on, and Annie Slease of NAMI Delaware weighs in on the importance of providing students with the resources they need to succeed.
Enjoy this bonus episode of Whip Count with the full audio of Governor John Carney's 2021 State of the State Address!
To honor International Holocaust Remembrance Day, we're highlighting Holocaust survivor Ann Jaffe's story.
In 2020, as Delaware lawmakers prepared to vote on a measure that would mandate Holocaust education for students in grades 6-12, Ann Jaffe addressed the General Assembly. Ann spoke about her experience surviving under the Nazi regime and highlighted the importance of ensuring all young people are educated on the horrors of the Holocaust and other genocides. This episode features her entire unedited speech.
In 2020, the Delaware General Assembly passed legislation that requires schools to implement a curriculum on the Holocaust and genocide for students in grades 6-12, making Delaware the 15th state to enact such legislation.
This legislation comes not a moment too soon, as a 2020 national survey assessing student's knowledge of the Holocaust ranked Delaware 41st when it comes to Holocaust education.
In this episode, two individuals who were instrumental in passing Holocaust education legislation, Rep. Debra Heffernan and Steve Gonzer of the Halina Wind Preston Holocaust Education Committee, discuss the decades of work leading up to this bill and the importance of educating young adults on tolerance and empathy in an age of polarization and misinformation.
Every year, people around the country recognize the accomplishments and impact Dr. Martin Luther King had on our society.
King’s messages had an enormous effect on race relations in Delaware and across the United States; throughout and beyond the civil rights era.
In this episode of Whip Count, Delaware legislators such as Rep. Kendra Johnson, Rep Sherry Dorsey Walker, Rep. Rae Moore and Rep. Larry Lambert talk about Dr. King’s activism and share excerpts of his speeches that keep them motivated in their daily public service work.
Everyday residents can play an important role in public policy. Advocacy work can be done as an individual or through a team of people with one goal in mind.
In this episode of Whip Count, Rep. Debra Heffernan and Rep. Paul Baumbach shared how often they engage constituents. The two legislators also talked about proposed bills that started as an idea from people they represent. The legislative process has certainly caught the attention of Samtra Devard who advocated for more speech therapists in the state and Javonne Rich of the American Civil Liberties Union. Find out what motivates them to push for legislative change and how you can do the same.
When news of Covid-19 hit and restrictions were put in place to stop the spread of the virus, many people anticipated things would be back to normal by 2021. However, that's not the case.
Delaware's 151st General Assembly decided to go virtual in the New Year and legislators such as Rep. Krista Griffith, Rep. Franklin Cooke, and Rep. Melissa Minor Brown have learned to not only adapt to the new normal but stay connected with constituents. In fact, they all share how the pandemic gave them a deeper appreciation for public service.
Take a listen.
In 2020, a record number of Americans turned out to cast their vote. This was in part due to expanded voting options, which were put in place by lawmakers temporarily as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This week, Representative David Bentz and Representative Sherry Dorsey Walker talk about legislation they're working on which would permanently make voting in Delaware more accessible and convenient. Jennifer Hill, the former Policy Director at Common Cause Delaware, joins us to weigh in on the importance of removing barriers to voting.
The new members of Delaware's 151st General Assembly are ready to get to work and focus on community and statewide issues. They don't want to be known for breaking barriers, making headlines or history.
In this episode, you'll hear from Sen. Sarah McBride, the nation's first ever transgender state senator, as well as Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton, the state's first practicing Muslim to be elected into office.
We also get up close and personal with Sen. Kyle Evans Gay, Sen. Marie Pinkney, Rep. Eric Morrison, Rep. Larry Lambert, and Rep. Sherae'a Moore.
It's been a long journey for Delaware's own, Joseph R. Biden Jr. who formally ran as a Democratic candidate for president in 1988 and 2008. More than a decade later, Biden will be sworn into office as the 46th President of United States in January 2021.
In fact, this episode includes a recap of local stories from some of Delaware's most influential people who believe Biden's experiences, and leadership skills exemplify what he was always destined to become. The right person to lead this country.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to raise awareness of the second most common cancer diagnosed among women. It's also a time to shine a light on survivors. In this episode, we'll hear from former First Lady of Delaware, Carla Markell, about her battle with breast cancer. Rep. Melissa Minor Brown shares a personal story about health inequity and provides tips on how women can advocate for themselves in the doctor's office. The Delaware Division of Public Health's Clinical Cancer Director Melissa Keiper also joins this episode to share information about resources available to those battling breast cancer here in Delaware.
Delaware may be a small state but it is big on Vice President Joe Biden. Many people have encountered "Joe" and shared personal stories that they hold close to their hearts. Some moments have even shaped their lives.
On this special episode of Whip Count, we continue with stories about "Biden Moments" from Rep. Gerald Brady, Margaret Aitken, and Brian McGlinchey.
Delaware leaders share stories of inspiration and memorable moments about Vice President Joe Biden who made a great impact on their lives.
Rep. Krista Griffith talks about three encounters with Biden, House Speaker Pete Schwartzkopf details a campaign experience with the Vice President, and Majority Leader Valerie Longhurst, Dr. Tony Allen of Delaware State University, Rep. Stephanie T. Bolden, and more join the conversation as well.
State Election Commissioner Anthony Albence, Rep. Sherry Dorsey Walker, and Rep. David Bentz all set the record straight about vote-by-mail, legislation to modernized the voting process in Delaware and voter education.
The November General Election is fast approaching and voters still have the option to vote-by-mail.
The back to school season is never without its stresses- but this year those stresses are exasperated by a global health crisis. Delaware schools have been permitted to resume in a hybrid setting, with a mix of online and in-person instruction, but each school district was tasked with creating their own re-opening plan.
In this episode, we spoke to Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown and Rep. Kim Williams of the House Education Committee, as well as Delaware State Education Association Vice President Kerry Stahl to get their perspective on the challenges facing students, parents, and educators as families across Delaware begin to navigate remote learning.
Rep. Williams also discusses her Emmy nominated PSA, "Don't Rush the Red", which can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=77QIjKvO2o8
Labor Day unofficially marks the end of the summer season for some Americans but for others, it takes on a whole new meaning.
In honor of Labor Day, Delaware Secretary of Labor Cerron Cade, Representative Edward Osienski, and James Maravelias, who leads one of the largest trade unions in the state all share their individual perspectives. The Delaware leaders also highlight social and economic achievements, and raise awareness about challenges ahead in the labor movement.
Get up close and personal with women including Delaware House Rep. Valerie Longhurst and Rep. Kendra Johnson as they reflect on the centennial anniversary of the 19th Amendment. To further educate the public, Delaware legislators also played a key role in forming the Women's Suffrage Centennial Committee to honor women's constitutional right to vote. Although celebrations were planned for this year, events to honor those involved in making history will spill into 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Since the killing of George Floyd, the Delaware Legislative Black Caucus has stepped into a leading role in the General Assembly. Last week they held a press conference announcing their "Justice for All Agenda" - a start down the road of reforming police and fighting back against institutionalized racism in Delaware. We spoke to three members of the Black Caucus in surprising, illuminating and emotional interviews about this initiative, their perspectives on policing and racism, and Black leadership in Delaware.
In March, the leadership of the General Assembly made a hard decision: to postpone part of Delaware's legislative session. When they reconvened on Tuesday, 39 of its 41 members weren't in the chamber like normal. Instead, this meeting made history as Delaware's first ever virtual session. We spoke to Speaker Pete Schwartzkopf and Representative Stephanie T. Bolden about their impressions of this unprecedented change to the way Delaware's legislative branch operates.
In March, Delaware's General Assembly decided to postpone legislative session and begin working from home to keep legislators and staff safe and limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During that time, state legislators have found new ways to communicate with constituents, serve the needs of their district, and work with the executive branch as Delaware locked down. In this episode, 4 representatives talk about their unique perspectives on the COVID-19 pandemic and the work they've been doing over the last two months.
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our state and our world in a profound way. Today, almost two months into a state of emergency in Delaware, there are still many myths and misconceptions about this virus and how our government is responding to it. In this episode we speak with DHSS Secretary Dr. Kara Odom Walker, Secretary of Labor Cerron Cade and Division of Small Business Director Damian DeStefano to gain a better understanding of the actions our state is taking to fight back against COVID-19. Important links:
- Visit https://de.gov/coronavirus for daily updates.
- Visit https://uics.delawareworks.com/Forms/Form_WL1 to apply for unemployment.
- Visit https://business.delaware.gov/coronavirus/ for small business resources.
A controversy erupted when an obscure regulation reared its head last summer: preventing dogs from joining their families on the outdoor patios of restaurants. In dog-friendly Delaware towns like Dewey Beach, this posed a real problem for business owners. Speaker Pete Schwartzkopf's HB 275, which has now been signed into law, overturned that regulation so dogs can now stay with their owners. In this episode we speak to Speaker Schwartzkopf, a local Dewey Beach business owner, and a dog lover about the legislation.
Just one week ago, the confidence millions of Americans hold in the integrity of their elections was shaken when the Iowa Caucus, a long-standing political institution, descended into absolute chaos. The results of that caucus are, due to errors and delays in reporting, still unclear. Delaware does not hold a caucus - however voters here might still be worried about the security, accuracy, and transparency of our election systems. This week on Whip Count we spoke to Rep. Paul Baumbach about what he saw in Iowa at the caucus and efforts the House is making to expand voting rights, and Delaware Elections Commissioner Anthony Albence about the failsafes we've put in place to make sure that our elections work.
Delaware's General Assembly is constitutionally obligated to do only one thing - pass a balanced budget. Last week, Governor John Carney announced his proposed budget and today the Joint Finance Committee is meeting to begin its process of writing it. However, for many people this process started just after the last budget was passed this summer.
In this episode of Whip Count we speak to Secretary of Health and Social Services Dr. Kara Odom Walker, Director of the Office of Management and Budget Mike Jackson, and House Co-Chair of the Joint Finance Committee Rep. Quinn Johnson to learn about the budget process from beginning to end.
Last week, Governor John Carney gave his annual State of the State Address to a joint session of the Delaware General Assembly. Here is the full audio of the speech, outlining his priorities for the coming year.
This year, House Majority Leader Valerie Longhurst and Governor John Carney announced an influx of funding for clean water infrastructure in Delaware. Communities up and down our state have been facing problems with access to clean water, stormwater management, flooding, and waste water. This investment will help rebuild drinking water infrastructure, protect our waterways and support vulnerable communities. We spoke to an advocate for clean water, the Mayor of Milford, a southern Delaware town, and Rep. Longhurst about the history of this bill, the impact it will have on our state, and where it is in the legislative process.
In 2008, Governor Ruth Ann Minner left political office having led one of the most extraordinary political careers in Delaware history. A twice-widowed mother of three who never finished high school, she worked her way up from a job as a Delaware House of Representatives attache to being a two-term governor.
While in office Ruth Ann tackled tough issues head-on, and has left a lasting legacy in our state and throughout our country. Last week she celebrated her 85th birthday on her Milford farm, surrounded by the towing business she built with her husband and the houses her sons still live in. We spoke to her about her life and legacy to cap off this two-part special for the premiere of Whip Count Season 2.
Welcome back to the 150th Delaware General Assembly and to Season 2 of Whip Count! This season we're going even farther into the quirks, history, and characters of Legislative Hall.
Our session begins with a momentous occasion: former Governor Ruth Ann Minner's 85th birthday. Governor Minner has a fascinating and unique story, and this week we delve into it with some of the people who knew her best throughout her life and career.
Stay tuned: next week we finish off this 2-part special with an interview with Governor Minner herself.
In 2019, Democrats in Delaware's General Assembly began an unprecedented effort to reform our state's criminal justice system on a large scale, introducing 19 bills aimed at reforming sentencing, reentry, and more. At the same time, Delaware's new Attorney General Kathy Jennings has been changing practices within the Department of Justice to make the system more equitable. This week on Whip Count, AG Jennings sits down with Rep. Sean Lynn, a defense attorney and the chair of the House Judiciary Committee, and Dubard McGriff, an activist and organizer with the ACLU Campaign for Smart Justice for a wide-reaching conversation on the criminal justice system and the work they're doing to reform it.
A Delawarean dies every 22 hours from an opioid overdose. This crisis has reached a point where it affects nearly everyone in our state, and Delaware lawmakers are fighting back. This week we are joined by Rep. David Bentz, the chair of the House Health Committee, Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long, the chair of the Behavioral Health Consortium, and David Humes, a board member of Attack Addiction to discuss steps we have taken to fight the opioid epidemic and what we can do going forward. Get access to help with addiction and mental health issues today: https://www.helpisherede.com/
On a busy session day Legislative Hall is bustling and crazy, but underneath that chaos there is a team of people who make sure everything runs smoothly. Many of the people who work here have years of insight into our state government, and their unique stories and backgrounds are part of what make this building special. We sat down with staff from the Legislative Library, Facilities, the Leg Hall Cafe, the print shop, a long-time House Democrats receptionist, and a Master Corporal from the Capitol Police to hear what they had to say about their lives and their important work.
In 2019, 8 new legislators joined the Delaware House Democratic Caucus. They come from a variety of backgrounds and bring unique perspectives and experiences to the General Assembly, which has helped them already make an impact on the policies that affect every Delawarean. We spoke to five of the new representatives about their lives, their journey to the House of Representatives, and the unique experiences of being a freshman legislator, including learning the building and running their first bill.
Voting is the fundamental right that underpins our democracy, and giving people the option to vote early in-person makes that process easier, simpler, and more accessible. In this episode of Whip Count we spoke to Rep. David Bentz and Jennifer Hill from Common Cause Delaware about early voting and the fight for its passage in our state, and cover the signing ceremony for Delaware's new early voting law.
Just 10 years ago in Delaware it was legal to discriminate against someone because they were gay. A landlord could refuse to rent to you, you could be denied insurance, and you could show up to work to find that you were fired simply for who you loved. That was the reality. The LGBTQ community didn't gain legal protections in our state until 2009, when the General Assembly passed landmark legislation prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation.
Within four years of that law's passage, Delaware had passed civil unions, marriage equality, and protected gender identity, and to some the changes may have seemed to happen basically overnight. But in reality the fight for equal rights was a decade-long process where lawmakers and advocates ran up against bigotry and hatred at every turn. This is the story of that struggle, as told by three people who were intimately involved with the process right from the very beginning.
"There is still magic in this place. Just a total happenstance that's going to change someone's life forever." Legislative Hall is rich with history and tradition. Few people in this building have a better knowledge of these distinctly Delaware quirks than long-time staffers Rich Puffer, Dick Carter, and Bernard Brady. In this special episode of Whip Count, we're going to let them speak for themselves. Learn about some of the most memorable characters, stories and events of the last 40 years in Legislative Hall straight from the people who experienced it themselves. This episode also includes exclusive historical audio from floor votes that you haven't heard anywhere else.
If you thought Delaware already guaranteed women equal rights under the law, well you wouldn't be the only one. But it wasn't until this year that lawmakers passed an Equal Rights Amendment, enshrining equality under the law for Delaware women. The fight for women's equality has been 100 years in the making, with Delaware lawmakers paving the way in 1972 by ratifying the federal ERA. Unfortunately, the federal ERA never became a reality, so Delaware had to take on the issue and run with it. Today, the state ERA is law. To give us the history, we spoke to a retired judge, our House Majority Leader, and a family member of a 1972-era legislator who led the charge.
Every bill starts with an idea, Schoolhouse Rock taught us that. But there may be plenty of things that go on behind the scenes that not everyone gets to see. Consider this a crash course in what happens in-between an idea and a law. This is the inaugural episode of Whip Count, a podcast by the Delaware House Democratic Caucus. Join an issue advocate, a cabinet secretary, a state representative, a legislative drafting lawyer, the Speaker of the House, the Chief Clerk of the House, and the Governor of Delaware to learn the ins and outs of the legislative process.