April 10, 2020

Working for you!

Elections are Essential

When disaster strikes, there are no smooth and easy paths. Crisis means change. I appreciate the many calls and emails I’ve received with thoughts on this election and the process. We are all learning what could have gone better as we look forward to our upcoming elections.

Thanks to all of the volunteers and voters in carrying out Tuesday’s election. Great sacrifices have been made throughout history to protect our democracy. Elections are the most essential pillar to our American republic.

Special shout out to our Greenville Town Clerk Wendy Helgeson. As a volunteer election official at the polls for the first time yesterday, I got to witness just how much she puts in to make our elections safe and secure for every voter. Great job Wendy!

We are still learning just how much damage was done on Election Day by some mayors reducing polling locations. I’m also deeply concerned with issues around undelivered absentee ballots. This is an excellent example of the issues involved with implementing an all-mail-in election. As a member of the Assembly Committee on Campaigns and Elections, I’m looking forward to learning more about why Green Bay refused National Guard support and decided instead to severely limit polling locations. We cannot allow these problems to occur again in future elections.

COVID-19 Guidance and Assistance

Help is available if you are in need. You can’t control whether you lose your job or your benefits because of the Coronavirus. However, you can take steps to protect yourself in case you wind up without health insurance during the pandemic. If you have lost coverage (or fear that you might), you have options! Call 920-882-6420 or dial United Way’s 2-1-1 for free help.

Below are additional resources:

Unemployment and Job Opportunities

• Unemployment insurance claims should be made online if possible, and requirements have been relaxed. Many employers are currently hiring in order to fill gaps in delivery and retail services. Learn more by visiting https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/covid19/public/

Small Businesses

• Grants of up to $20,000 to targeted small businesses with no more than 20 employees to cover rent and to meet payroll expenses, including paid leave.

Financial Resources

• If you are experiencing financial impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic, assistance may be available.

Foxconn to Manufacture Ventilators

In addition to recently meeting hiring goals set by the state, Foxconn announced this week that they will be partnering with Medtronic Plc to manufacture ventilators right here in Wisconsin. Wisconsin, and the Midwest, was once known worldwide for its manufacturing strength. Domestic production of electronics is critical not only to our economy but to public safety and security.  

Congratulations Macy!

I went to Hortonville High School, so I’m always on the lookout for great news from the Polar Bears!

Special congratulations go out to Hortonville's Macy McGlone, who has had a terrific basketball season with the Polar Bears! Macy has done a great job and played her way to a fourth trip to the WIAA state girls’ basketball tournament!

She was recently named the USA Today Network-Wisconsin Fox Valley girls basketball player of the year, in addition to earning a first-team Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Association all-state selection in Division 2, and a second-team Associated Press all-state pick.

UW–Milwaukee is lucky to get this dynamic leader next fall. Good luck in the future, Macy!

Nominate Someone for Recognition

In times of crisis it’s more important than ever to recognize the heroes in our community. If you know of someone who deserves to be recognized for their efforts, sacrifices, or resilience, please reach out to my office via email with the subject line “Hometown Hero.” Be sure to include your name, phone number, and address, along with the reason you are nominating the individual.

Don't Let COVID-19 Make You Vulnerable to Fraud

Happy Easter and Holy Week!

"Like" Representative Murphy's Facebook Page

I use Facebook to update constituents more frequently on my work in Madison and the 56th Assembly District. I look forward to using this as another way to connect with constituents and encourage you to follow it and watch for regular updates.