Friends,

This week, we have some updates on the Special Session of the General Assembly and some highlights from early voting in Virginia. However, before I go into these updates, I’d like to highlight the very real and present threat COVID-19 still poses to our Commonwealth.

Last weekend, President Trump and multiple top administration members tested positive for COVID-19. Their diagnosis was followed by dozens of new cases among more officials, party leaders, and White House staff. The spread of COVID-19 throughout White House staff and GOP leadership shows just how dangerous and persistent the coronavirus can be. Even officials who were frequently tested have now contracted this disease, putting themselves and their loved ones at risk.

My wishes for good health and full recovery go out to all those who were recently infected. My thoughts are with the millions of families in mourning; among these families are friends who are dear to me and whose grievous losses are made even more profound by this ongoing, global crisis. Recently, our country reached another grim milestone: more than 210,000 lives have now been lost to this pandemic in this country.

The way this virus has spread shows the need for clear, decisive leadership on mask wearing and contact tracing. As many in the Commonwealth know, Governor Northam and his wife tested positive for the virus last week and, within days, 65 people who had contact with the Governor and Mrs. Northam were identified and contacted. Communities across our country need leadership like that shown by Virginia’s Governor; a responsive and well-coordinated response is absolutely essential as we work to contain the virus and decrease the tragic loss of life.

Wearing a mask helps reduce the spread; contact tracing helps identify and quarantine infected or potentially infected members of our community; and clear guidelines can help us navigate our new normal safely.

Special Session update
I’m pleased to share that each Chamber has passed its budget bill. Both the House and the Senate finance committees will be working to reconcile the differences between the two budgets. These bills reflect the difficult decisions that have had to be made in the midst of this economic and health crisis. Next week, I’ll be able to share some of the key elements of the final budget agreed to by the Chambers. Additionally, most of the other bills passed by the Senate and the House have been reconciled to each other and/or necessary amendments have been adopted. Those bills that could not be conformed have now been sent to conference committees, and conferees will soon meet.

Remember, you can always follow all legislation, view all committee meetings and floor sessions, and stay in touch with your representatives by visiting https://lis.virginia.gov/.

Early voting in Virginia
Virginia is undoubtedly leading the charge in early voting during this year’s critical election. More than 714,000 Virginians have already cast their ballots. Because of the work of the 2020 General Assembly, Virginians are able to cast their ballots safely and efficiently, well in advance of Election Day. I thank all of the volunteers and poll workers who are dedicating their efforts to make the process so smooth.

On October 1, I was pleased to greet Henrico County voters alongside Douglas Emhoff (husband to Vice President nominee Kamala Harris), my good friend Senator Jennifer McClellan, former Governor Terry McAuliffe, and Chairwoman of the Democratic Party Susan Swecker.

It was great to gather safely and see the amazing early voter turnout and the energy surrounding this election.

Please be mindful of poll closing deadlines and make sure to cast your ballot before or on November 3. You can find more information on voting deadlines on our Department of Elections website.

As always, if you need assistance or if you want to schedule a Zoom or phone call with our team, please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office. As a reminder, email is the best way to contact us. We can be reached at [email protected].

-- Ghazala Hashmi