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American Oversight’s investigation into the pandemic response is examining not only the early federal decisions that may have cost thousands of lives, but also working to expose efforts to exploit this crisis to advance ideological goals in the states. We have submitted over 400 open records requests and filed three lawsuits as part of our investigation so far.
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Preserving impartial, honest governance.
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In Texas, American Oversight is seeking communications related to a March 22 executive order issued by Governor Greg Abbott that would temporarily ban abortion procedures among other surgeries designated as not being medically necessary because of coronavirus. While the order was immediately stayed — and was ultimately lifted this week — Texas is not alone in seeking to restrict reproductive healthcare access during the pandemic. We’re continuing our investigation.
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In Wisconsin, one of the two recent expansions of our State Accountability Project, we are seeking a variety of records — including risk assessments and communications sent by top state officials — related to the recent primary election. According to news reports today, at least 19 coronavirus cases have been linked to the election in which voters were forced to stand in line in person to vote despite the clear public health risk. The primary raised important concerns about how states should administer secure, fair, elections while taking participation and health risks into account. As other states consider postponing primary elections, adapting vote-by-mail processes, and making other adjustments in lieu of polling place closures and a lower volunteer engagement, the lessons we learn from Wisconsin will have an immediate impact.
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American Oversight has also submitted requests to the governors’ offices in California, New York, Florida, Ohio, Oklahoma, and Washington related to the coronavirus response and we’re continuing to monitor developments across the country. If you have concerns about the coronavirus response in your state, you can submit a tip to [email protected].
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Thanks to supporters like you, American Oversight is leading the charge for accountability during the coronavirus crisis. If you are able, please consider supporting American Oversight and our ongoing coronavirus investigation by making a tax-deductible contribution here.
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You can also help us to share the news on Facebook or Twitter by following @weareoversight.
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