Highlights from the Week
Last week the United States withdrew the majority of its troops from Afghanistan. Since then, government leaders have fled the country, and the Taliban has taken over the capital city of Kabul. Read President Joe Biden’s address to the nation regarding his administration’s decision here. Click here to read the latest reactions from your representatives.
This week the Biden Administration announced a 27% increase in food stamp benefits, marking the largest increase in the program’s history. Click here to read statements from your representatives.
Haitian officials have confirmed the deaths of over 2,000 people after the nation was hit by a 7.2 magnitude earthquake over the weekend. Click here to read President Joe Biden’s statement on the earthquake and see reactions from your representatives here.
U.S. health officials announced a plan this week to begin offering a Covid-19 booster shot in September. Click here to read the latest from your representatives about the distribution of the coronavirus vaccine.
Elections
By Makala and the Elections Research team
Vote Smart is tracking all 2021 ballot measures! See the list of measures we’ve researched here.
Officials
By Chelsea and the Officials Research team
Public Statements: 915 statements were added this week
Key Votes:
States: 48
The governor of Washing signed a bill into law that classifies the misrepresentation of unofficial ballot collection sites as official drop boxes as a gross misdemeanor.
The governor of Utah signed a bill into law that authorizes each municipality to opt-into the Municipal Alternative Voting Pilot Program, which allows for ranked-choice voting.
The Texas legislature passed a bill that requires voting system equipment to be manufactured, stored, and held in the United States.
Congress: 0 bills added