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 QUOTE OF THE DAY  |
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"Sing it out, baby" – Jon Bon Jovi, just before Chicagoans staying at home started to sing "Livin' on a Prayer." We've got each other and that's a lot.
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HOME IS WHERE MANY AMERICANS ARE
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The Story
Nearly one in three Americans are being asked to stay home.
Where?
California was the first. Since then, four others followed suit: New York, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, and four more – Ohio, Louisiana, Connecticut, and Delaware – are joining the list. In all, an estimated 101 million Americans are being told to stay in their homes. It comes as New York City has become the epicenter of the US crisis.
What's happening there?
About half of the over 30,000 confirmed infections in the US are in New York. Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) is asking the federal gov to use the Defense Production Act to order companies to produce medical supplies. NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio (D) is asking President Trump to send medically trained military personnel.
When will federal help come?
It's in the works. Trump approved a disaster declaration for New York, California, and Washington, allowing him to give the states federal funding. He also deployed the National Guard there and said "hundreds of tons of supplies" including masks and gloves are on their way.
What about Americans suffering financially?
Lawmakers are working on a $1.8 trillion coronavirus bill that would give $1,200 checks to most Americans (with more for families). But yesterday, a procedural vote failed in the Senate. Dems aren't on board, since the Treasury Dept would get a ton of say on where industry loan money goes. They also say the bill doesn't sufficiently protect workers' jobs. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) said there's no time to "play games" and is planning a re-vote. But Dems are already working on a plan of their own.
theSkimm
Stay-at-home orders like the ones we're seeing now are unprecedented, designed to help stem a pandemic that's raised alarm bells around the world. But many Americans are suffering from medical shortages as well as the economic fallout. And help cannot come fast enough.
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Several senators are facing accusations of insider trading ahead of the coronavirus-related market downfall: Sens. Richard Burr (R-NC), Kelly Loeffler (R-GA), Jim Inhofe (R-OK), and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA).
They or their partners are accused of selling off hundreds of thousands of dollars or more in stocks, based on not-so-public info on the severity of the virus (think: from briefings). They all deny wrongdoing. But if found to have violated the law on this, they could face fines.
In the meantime, many are furious over the appearance of elected reps out for themselves while the country could be heading toward a recession. Especially since at least two senators – Burr and Loeffler – seemed to downplay the virus in public. The news is renewing a debate about whether congressional reps should be allowed to hold stock in companies at all.
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What's keeping busy while COVID-19 dominates the news…
The Justice Department. A report from this weekend says the DOJ proposed new emergency powers to Congress amidst the coronavirus pandemic. If Congress grants these powers, the DOJ could ask chief judges to detain people indefinitely during an emergency (like a natural disaster or...other emergency situation like a pandemic). They'd also be able to pause court hearings and ban certain people who can apply for asylum. The DOJ said it would help make proceedings during emergencies "consistent." But lawmakers and civil liberties advocates called out the proposal, accusing the admin of taking advantage of the coronavirus crisis to make major policy changes. The proposal isn't expected to get past the Democratic-led House.
Kentucky. Last week, the state's Republican-controlled legislature approved a new measure that would require citizens to have a gov-issued photo ID in order to vote. Currently, the state only requires some form of ID (think: credit card or mail). But if the governor signs it, this bill would change that. Its lead author reportedly said the changes would help "build confidence" in elections. But it's being slammed by civil rights advocates, who say the state should be making it easier for voters to hit the polls during a moment of crisis. Kentucky's primaries have already been moved from May to June amid the coronavirus outbreak, and many gov offices have been closed. Meaning, those who will need to get a photo ID could face even more hurdles.
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Who's being remembered…
Kenny Rogers. Last week, the country music icon died of natural causes at the age of 81. Rogers's six-decade career included 24 no. 1 hits, 100 million album sales, six CMA awards, and three Grammys. His hits included "Lady," "The Gambler," and his famous duet with Dolly Parton "Islands in the Stream." Parton called him "a wonderful man and a true friend." RIP.
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The COVID-19 pandemic is affecting us all in different ways. No matter your situation, sometimes you just need to press pause. Enter: our picks to help you take a break…
1. "Emma." Read the classic novel "Clueless" was based on. Then stream the new adaptation. Cher's outfits not included.
2. #Oddlysatisfying videos on TikTok. That's it. That's the whole thing.
3. Aromatherapy, but make it DIY. Use pantry staples to brew yourself a home-scent makeover. Side effects include: instant calm.
PS: Want more? Sign up for our weekly SkimmPicks email that will give you more recs to add to your queue.
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For when your sibling lets you borrow their car…
It's called perks. If you're into that sorta thing, The Points Guy recommends this credit card. Get benefits like 4x Membership Rewards® points at restaurants (including delivery). So the more you spend, the more you earn. Card work pays off. Terms apply.*
For when you rely on Yelp restaurant delivery reviews...
The more stars the better. Just like Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara from Thrive Causemetics. It has over 7,000 five star reviews. And it makes your lashes appear longer without extensions. Oh, and Skimm'rs get 15% off. Lash out.*
For when you'll be spending a lot of time indoors…
Socks are the new shoes. This company has what you need. They make supportive socks from natural cotton. Plus for every pair purchased, a pair is donated to someone in need. So your feet can feel good while you do good. Skimm'rs get 20% off their first order. Sock it to me.*
For when you forgot to eat your fruits and veggies…
It happens. This company makes multivitamins to help fill nutrient gaps in your diet. Think: D3 and Omega 3. Plus they're vegan and gluten-free. Skimm'rs get 20% off their first month. Try 'em.*
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*PS: This is a sponsored post.
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In times like these, community matters more than ever. Send a shoutout in the link below to the people you're missing while social distancing. Or let us know how you (or someone you know) is making an impact by helping others.
A community boost with...Ashley O (GA). Her local Rotary Club is helping serve those in need by holding collection drives at locally-owned restaurants. And it's helping the community connect with area charities in need of restocking supplies to support families. Learn more here.
Good to her corps...Shannon R (MD). The registered EMT-B is a member of the Medical Reserve Corps, a national network of volunteers that aims to improve the health and safety of their communities. She's ready to help with anything COVID-19 related as needed.
(Some) Birthdays...Amy Heller Shapiro (FL), Joe Marchese (NY), Elizabeth Moffet (CA), Alex Goudy (MA), Cassie Biron (UK), Christina Engelbart (CA), Emily Cosentino (CA), Jordan Klee (PA), Abby Grafchik (GA), Rebecca Francis (TX), Patricia Frederickson (GA), Carri Edmiston (VA), Caitlin Smith (TX), Sammie Brooks (VA), Gina Groseclose (LA)
*Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
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theSkimm50 West 23rd Street, Suite 5B; New York, NY, 10010, United States Update Profile
