mitch mcconnell
June 17, 2020 -
The Republican-led U.S. Senate has confirmed nearly 200 federal judges nominated by President Donald Trump, leaving the judicial branch less racially diverse and much more conservative. The few remaining appellate court vacancies are being filled by Southern judges with controversial records on civil rights.
May 20, 2020 -
At the state and federal level, lawmakers are pushing legislation that would prevent some people from suing their employers if they contract the novel coronavirus at work. Labor leaders call the proposals an "outrage" and an attempt by businesses to skirt responsibility.
May 7, 2020 -
State and federal lawmakers are erecting temporary barriers for workers and consumers sickened by the novel coronavirus to bring lawsuits against companies they hold responsible. For example, a new North Carolina law bars pandemic-related lawsuits against "essential businesses" — even if they're negligent.
December 6, 2019 -
With reform blocked in Washington, voting rights advocates are shifting their attention to the states and are proposing far-reaching, pro-democracy agendas across the South. While the plans face an uphill battle, advocates see their efforts as a chance to be proactive after years of playing legal and political defense.
April 9, 2019 -
Federal judges have — so far — halted attempts by the region's conservative state leaders to limit or block access to health care through the Affordable Care Act. But Republicans are changing U.S. Senate rules to stack those courts with conservative Trump appointees.
November 1, 2018 -
Spending in this year's elections — including key races across the South — has smashed records. If it results in Democrats winning control of the U.S. House, they say their first task will be campaign finance reform legislation.
September 22, 2017 -
A new report by Oil Change International shows how federal regulators' failure to adequately consider companies' justification for new fracked gas pipelines means utility ratepayers could end up footing the bill for costly and environmentally harmful projects that aren't needed.
