— Publisher’s Note —
Good morning! There’s a word that most of us rarely, if ever, use – but that is more and more important in these times of crisis.
That word is “governance.” The act of governing something.
Lots of adjectives can be used with it: effective governance, transparent governance. But when it comes to our federal government, other words come to mind: slipshod governance, inconsistent governance, bad governance. And, deadly governance.
As a nation and as voters, we are getting an object lesson in the importance of good governance: of government that actually works, that solves problems and gets things done for the good of the governed.
As of today, there is no agreement on the next relief bill. The unemployment boost has ended, the eviction moratorium has ended, and local and state governments have to aid coming and will have to drastically cut budgets, just at a time when their services are needed the most.
We can argue about the role and size of government. But one thing we can all agree on is that we want our government to work. And right now, it’s not. And that is turning out to be deadly in many ways.
There are many things Joe Biden must do if/when he is elected. One of the first is simply putting back in place the basic expectation that our government will actually be run professionally.
As always – Wear your mask, wash your hands, and take care of yourself. We’re going to get through this, together. #TeamKentucky
Bruce Maples, publisher
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Today’s Five Things to Know
8/5 update – Positive-test rate goes above 5.5%, making Beshear consider recommending another delay of in-person schooling
More Kentuckians are testing positive for the novel coronavirus, and that could prompt Gov. Andy Beshear to recommend another delay in the start of in-person schooling this month. (Forward Kentucky)
Poll shows Mitch McConnell with large lead over Amy McGrath in U.S. Senate race
A new survey by independent polling firm Morning Consult shows Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell with a commanding lead in his bid for a seventh term in Kentucky, leading 53% to 36% over his Democratic challenger Amy McGrath. (Courier-Journal)
Capitol negotiators still stuck, still trying on virus aid
After more than a week’s worth of meetings, at least some clarity is emerging in the bipartisan Washington talks on a huge COVID-19 response bill. Negotiators are still stuck, but still trying.
A combative meeting Wednesday involving top Capitol Hill Democrats and the postmaster general and a souring tone from both sides indicate that a long slog remains, and White House chief of staff Mark Meadows threatened afterward that President Donald Trump is exploring options to use executive authority to extend a partial eviction ban and address unemployment benefits. (Kentucky Today)
Josh Hicks endorsed by Vote Vets in KY-06
Josh Hicks, Democratic candidate for U.S. Congress in the 6th District, has been endorsed by VoteVets, one of the largest veterans advocacy organizations in the country. (Forward Kentucky)
Kentucky First Lady Beshear, Lt. Gov. Coleman start mask donation initiative for schools
First Lady Britainy Beshear and Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman announced Tuesday a new “Coverings for Kids” initiative to collect face mask donations for Kentucky’s schools as they prepare to start the new school year during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Courier-Journal)
Recent Content on Forward Kentucky
[new] indicates item not in a Forward Five before
[new] Legislating evil – “He has repeatedly given money to corporations while undermining real help for poor Americans and low-wage workers. He blocks living wages, health care, and voting rights. Now he even wants to reduce unemployment assistance during a pandemic.” (Commentary)
Medicaid is made for times of crisis like this – Medicaid is critically important right now! But without additional funding, it will be dramatically cut just when we need it most. The Senate must act to fund Medicaid to the level that is needed. (Commentary)
Courier-Journal wins — and loses — in open records cases – The Courier Journal experienced both victory and defeat in two unrelated open government challenges last week. Neither result was unexpected. (Commentary)
Why we should use vote-by-mail in November – Adams may want elections to return to normal, but like so many other features of our society, the pandemic has shown that “normal” may not be the best option. (Policy)
NKY unions to McConnell: ‘Remember who you represent’ – A Thursday rain shower failed to stay about 50 union men, women, and family members from their appointed rounds outside Sen. Mitch McConnell’s Fort Wright field office. (News)
Marie Antoinette McConnell – Marie Antoinette showed her disdain for everyday people and their sufferings when she said her famous “Let them eat cake” line. Now Mitch McConnell is following in her footsteps, even as his state suffers under a pandemic and an economic collapse. (Commentary)
