Whip Count

Removing Barriers to Voting

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. 

Delaware's 151st General Assembly: A new class of diverse leadership

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.
 

Standing with Delaware's Joe Biden

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.  

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Shining a Light on Breast Cancer and Health Equity

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 Reflections and Connections to Joe Biden

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.   

The Impact of Joe Biden's Political Career

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. 

Delaware Officials discuss Vote-by-Mail Process

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. 
 

Back to School During the COVID-19 Crisis: The Challenges Ahead for Teachers, Students, and Parents

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's Successes and Challenges Ahead

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.

Reflections on Women's Suffrage: Delaware Honors Voting Rights 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.