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Connecting today’s news with the research & opinion you need.

Take a Closer Look

What to Know: Look more closely at those reports saying things are worse in Texas than in other states, particularly New York and New Jersey.

The TPPF Take: Because the virus hit New York and New Jersey particularly hard, due in part to early errors by local politicians, their fatality count today looks low compared to where it was months ago.

“According to the New York Times, in the seven days through June 29, (excluding the day New Jersey reported 1,877 suspected past fatalities), New York averaged 30 deaths a day, New Jersey 37, and Texas 31,” says TPPF’s Chuck DeVore. “New York and New Jersey together have 96% of Texas’ population. They are still losing more than double Texas’ per capita loss. Context matters.”
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Ensuring Fair Elections

What to Know: The U.S. Supreme Court refuses to force Texas to allow all voters to cast ballots by mail.

The TPPF Take: This is the right decision, ensuring fair elections.

“We must ensure the integrity of one of our most essential rights as citizens—voting in free and fair elections,” says TPPF’s Quico Canseco. “Because of the risks, including inaccurate rolls, vulnerability to fraud, and the sheer logistical challenges, a rush to expanding vote by mail would harm the rights of all Texans."

Expanding the Problem

What to Know: Missouri is considering expanding its Medicaid program in accordance with the Affordable Care Act, but costs remain a concern. The issue goes before voters on Aug. 4.

The TPPF Take: History shows that the costs to Missouri will be higher than anticipated.

“Other states that have expanded have seen up to twice the enrollment from what was projected,” TPPF’s David Balat testified this week. “Medicaid was intended for vulnerable women, children, the disabled, and the elderly. Let’s focus on improving Medicaid for them rather than crowding them out in an expansion.”