“This report responds to an August 7, 2020, congressional request regarding concerns that Postmaster General Louis DeJoy’s modifications to U.S. Postal Service staffing and policies had an adverse effect on Postal Service operations, leading to slower and less reliable mail delivery. This report also responds to a number of recent similar congressional requests. We are… Continue Reading
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Category Archives: Congress
Pete Recommends – Weekly highlights on cyber security issues, October 18, 2020
Via LLRX – Pete Recommends – Weekly highlights on cyber security issues, October 18, 2020 – Privacy and security issues impact every aspect of our lives – home, work, travel, education, health and medical records – to name but a few. On a weekly basis Pete Weiss highlights articles and information that focus on the increasingly… Continue Reading
Monthly poverty rates in the United States during COVID-19
Center on Poverty & Social Policy – “This report presents monthly poverty rates in the U.S. before and throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. In contrast to measures of poverty based on a family’s annual resources, we project poverty rates based on a family’s monthly resources. We find that the monthly poverty rate increased from 15% to… Continue Reading
Your guide to following the election on social media
Washington Post – From misinformation to fast-changing maps, here’s how to understand election results and navigate social media. “The experts agree: The best way to accurately track election results, and avoid falling for misinformation between now and Election Day, is to avoid too much social media. Stick with a handful of reputable news sources and… Continue Reading
2020 Election – Counting Votes and What to Expect on Election Day
Senate Democrats Report – 2020 Election – Counting Votes and What to Expect on Election Day: “Although Election Day is on November 3 this year, the general election is already well underway. In every state voters are already casting their ballots and millions of votes have already been cast. Turnout is unprecedented and as states… Continue Reading
As Local News Dies, a Pay-for-Play Network Rises in Its Place
The New York Times – “A nationwide operation of 1,300 local sites publishes coverage that is ordered up by Republican groups and corporate P.R. firms. “…Maine Business Daily is part of a fast-growing network of nearly 1,300 websites that aim to fill a void left by vanishing local newspapers across the country. Yet the network,… Continue Reading
7 ways to avoid misinformation about the election
Poynter: “As Election Day approaches, you may be more likely to see online disinformation that’s aimed at influencing your vote. This year, we’ve fact-checked dozens of false claims on social media about the candidates. Other events — the coronavirus pandemic, nationwide protests against police brutality and natural disasters — have created an even more fertile environment for… Continue Reading
How to beat bad ballot design and make sure your vote counts
Washington Post – “…“Every year we seem to have one or two big, horrible problems that make the news,” said Whitney Quesenbery, executive director of the Center for Civic Design, the go-to organization for creating voter-friendly election materials. But even if your county ends up being that county, you don’t have to let the ballot… Continue Reading
The Debt Collection Market and Selected Policy Issues
CRS report via LC – The Debt Collection Market and Selected Policy Issues, October 15, 2020: “When a consumer defaults on a debt,a third-party debt collector often collects the debt obligation rather than the lender to whom the debt is originally owed. The debt collection market helps lenders recoup their losses when a consumer defaults,… Continue Reading
The 2020 Elections: Selected Resources for Members and Constituents
CRS report via LC – The 2020 Elections: Selected Resources for Members and Constituents, October 14, 2020: “The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and reports of potential election interference might raise questions for Members and constituents about the 2020 elections. Potential disinformation campaigns and changes to election procedures in response to COVID-19might make it more… Continue Reading
The coronavirus is surging again
Axios: “Coronavirus infections jumped by almost 17% over the past week as the number of new cases increased in 38 states and Washington, D.C. Why it matters: The U.S. is headed solidly in the wrong direction — and at a dangerous time, as experts say the fall and winter will likely make the pandemic worse.… Continue Reading
Federal Election Results: Frequently Asked Questions
CRS report via LC – Federal Election Results: Frequently Asked Questions , October 8, 2020: “Several states have implemented new election administration processes in response to the COVID-19 pandemic that could affect how and when ballots are counted. Even under normal circumstances, finalizing federal election results takes days or weeks after election day. Among other… Continue Reading
