Welcome to another edition of FT Now! If Michigan Governor Gretchen
Whitmer thought she was done answering questions about that shady no-bid
contract, she can think again. In South Dakota, GOP Gov. Kristi Noem has
unveiled "back to normal" plans. And Democrat Stacey Abrams is telling
anyone who will listen that she should be Joe Biden's running mate.
Even those of us trying not to listen can't escape the shameless
self-hype. Read below for more!

RGA Submits FOIAs on Governor Gretchen Whitmer's Partisan Contract
Scandal

What Happened:

The Republican Governors Association submitted public records requests
this week to get the truth about Gov. Whitmer's decision to award a
no-bid contract for critical public health services to a Democratic
political operative and consulting firm.

Why You Should Care:

Last month, it was reported that the Whitmer Administration awarded a
contract to the Democratic firm for a COVID-19 tracing project. Almost
immediately, critics started questioning whether a partisan firm should
be allowed to gather data on Michigan citizens during a health crisis -
and rightfully so. Would the data eventually be used for political
purposes? And if so, should it be paid for with taxpayer dollars?

What Happens Next:

Though the contract was ultimately cancelled, the FOIA request seeks to
determine how the deal was made in the first place, and whether any data
has been collected.

LEARN MORE

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem Unveils "Back To Normal" Plan, Says It
Places Power in "Hands of the People"

What Happened:

Gov. Kristi Noem is working on getting her state "back to normal" with a
plan that she says emphasizes personal responsibility over government
orders.

Why You Should Care:

Throughout the COVID-19 crisis, governors have taken steps that are
appropriate for their state and their constituents. It certainly seems
like the people of South Dakota appreciate her approach. Earlier this
week, residents threw her a parade to thank her for her leadership.

What Happens Next:

Gov. Noem said it best: "The plan I'm unveiling today puts the power
into the hands of the people where it belongs."

LEARN MORE

Stacey Abrams Is Practically Begging To Be Joe Biden's Running Mate

What Happened:

Failed gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams has been all over the news
publicly campaigning to be Joe Biden's running mate. According to
recent reports, she's not only being public about her VP ambitions -
she's waging an aggressive behind-the-scenes campaign as well.

Why You Should Care:

Abrams rose to fame after refusing to concede the Georgia governor's
race in 2018. That may make her a darling on the left, but does that
qualify her to be vice president?

What Happens Next:

Abrams, undoubtedly, continues her many, many shameless self-plugs.

LEARN MORE

Thank you for reading this week's edition of FT Now.

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