Whip Count

By Delaware House Democrats

History

What's Whip Count about?

The Delaware House Democratic Caucus presents Whip Count: a journey inside Legislative Hall in a blue state.

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Whip Count episodes:

03.30.2024
Leaning Into Your Vulnerabilities
On this episode of Whip Count, in honor of Women’s History Month, hear from House Majority Leadership as they discuss their journey in life and the lessons they learned along the way.
02.15.2024
Making Way For Change: Children of Alcoholics Week
On this episode of Whip Count, Speaker Valerie Longhurst along with Alisa Schneidman, Author of the House of Weird, and Patricia May board member from the Delaware Association for Children of Alcohol and Marijuana Dependency discuss the impact and effects...
08.28.2023
Catching Up With the Freshmen: Representative Sophie Phillips
Before the 152nd General Assembly officially kicked off, we introduced the five new members of our caucus and their plans to make an impact in Legislative Hall. In part two of our freshmen series, we spoke to Rep. Sophie Phillips about...
08.15.2023
The Right to a Healthy Environment: Delaware’s Green Amendment Explained
On the latest episode of Whip Count, Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton and environmental activist Anissa Cartagena join us to discuss HB 220, also known as Delaware’s Green Amendment. This proposed amendment would enshrine residents’ right to a clean and healthy environment in...
07.31.2023
Catching Up With the Freshman: Representative Cyndie Romer
Before the 152nd General Assembly officially kicked off, we introduced the five new members of our caucus and their plans to make an impact in Legislative Hall. On this new series, we’ll catch up with these history-making members as they reflect...
07.17.2023
Aggressive Speeding
In spring 2023, Gov. Carney, DelDOT, the Delaware Dept. of Safety and Homeland Security, and members of the General Assembly introduced a package of bills designed to improve safety on Delaware's roadways. This week's podcast episode of Whip Count highlights...
06.26.2023
A Path Forward: Revising the Registry to Help Young Offenders Lead Productive Lives
On this episode of Whip Count, Rep. Cyndie Romer joins us to explain her HB 186, a measure that would reduce the number of children placed on the sex offender registry by empowering judges, in consultation with child psychologists and...
06.12.2023
The Delaware Climate Solutions Act
On this episode of Whip Count, we’re joined by Rep. Debra Heffernan, Rep. Sophie Phillips and Emily Knearl from the Nature Conservancy to talk about the Delaware Climate Solutions Act, a bold step toward tackling Climate Change here in the...
05.22.2023
The Case for Regular Property Reassessments: House Bill 62 Explained
On this episode, Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton joins us to discuss her HB 62, legislation requiring properties to be assessed every five years. This would allow the state to be fairer in its taxation structure, ensuring that property owners finally have...
05.15.2023
Spending Less & Saving More: Policies to Ease the Tax Burden on Working Delawareans
On this episode of Whip Count, Rep. Paul Baumbach discusses measures that would put money in the pockets of working Delawareans by increasing the standard deduction and refundable Earned Income Tax Credit.
04.03.2023
The Matthew D. Klosowski Act: Creating Safer Recovery Homes for Delawareans
Recovery housing is an integral part of the recovery journey, providing transitional homes in a substance-free, supportive environment. However, here in Delaware, the lack of standards and regulations for these homes has created difficult and sometimes dangerous situations for individuals...
01.31.2023
Commemorating Holocaust Remembrance Day
Just before we gaveled out for the February Joint Finance Committee break, the House commemorated Holocaust Remembrance Day with a resolution and an address from special guest David Meluskey of the World Jewish Congress. This episode of Whip Count features audio...
01.17.2023
Meet the Freshmen: New House members begin 2023 session
Who are the new members in the House? On this episode of Whip Count we introduce you to Representatives Kerri Evelyn Harris, DeShanna Neal, Sophie Phillips, Cyndie Romer, and Stell Parker Selby. The newcomers were recently sworn in at the...
05.16.2022
Criminal Justice Reform: Tracking Inmates
Delaware legislators continue work on criminal justice reform through legislation that would ensure clear and concise quarterly reports of an inmate's behavior. Under Rep. Larry Lambert’s HB 394, the Delaware Department of Correction would be required to provide copies of quarterly...
04.18.2022
2022 Delaware Momnibus
Recognizing the ongoing challenges facing mothers and newborns, Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown introduces us to the 2022 Delaware Momnibus, a series of several bills, addressing issues impacting pregnant and postpartum persons and decreasing infant mortality. Minor-Brown explains how lawmakers and organizations are...
04.11.2022
Direct Payments for Delawareans: The 2022 Delaware Relief Rebate and Other Economic Empowerment Legislation Explained
This week on Whip Count: The 2022 Delaware Relief Rebate explained, economic policies to help Delawareans become more resilient to inflation, and maintaining a strong and fair economy in the First State House Majority leader Valerie Longhurst provides listeners with an...
03.28.2022
Mental Health Education
Delaware kids are dealing with an unprecedented mental health crisis, and to address it, Rep. Valerie Longhurst is encouraging more people to normalize conversations around mental illness so more students understand they are never alone. Annie Slease of the National Alliance...
03.08.2022
The Delaware Legislative Women’s Caucus
In February, lawmakers announced the formation of the Delaware Legislative Women's Caucus, a bipartisan and bicameral coalition of legislators focused on advancing the shared interests of women. In this episode of Whip Count, the co-chairs of the caucus, Rep. Valerie Longhurst...
02.21.2022
The Cover All Delaware Children Act
Approximately 5,000 Delaware children lack access to medical coverage due to their immigration status. For these children, a simple trip to the doctor for an illness or to get vaccinated is not a financially viable option. In this episode, Rep. Krista...
02.14.2022
Criminal Justice Reform: Second Chances
People who have been incarcerated often encounter challenges that are very difficult to overcome, which makes it hard for them to build a stable future. Unfortunately, there is no “quick-fix” solution to employment, education, and entrepreneurship for formerly incarcerated people. However,...
01.31.2022
State of the State: Highlights and Reaction
In Gov. John Carney ‘s 2022 State of the State address, he expressed commitment to invest in schools, jobs, economic development, broadband access, and more. Carney also highlighted some challenges during the pandemic but remained hopeful along with Rep. Krista Griffith,...
01.24.2022
Environmental Justice and Green Energy Investments
Representative Larry Lambert is committed to educating people about the federal Justice 40 Initiative, which ensures 40 percent of federal infrastructure funds around climate change, green energy and economic development go toward disadvantaged communities statewide. Learn how the initiative would help...
01.22.2022
Environmental Justice and Green Energy Investments
Representative Larry Lambert is committed to educating people about the federal Justice 40 Initiative, which ensures 40 percent of federal infrastructure funds around climate change, green energy and much more go toward disadvantaged communities statewide. Learn how it would help propel...
01.17.2022
Martin Luther King Day: Service, Reflection, and Education
The historical memories of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Justice hit too close home for Rep. Stephanie T. Bolden who shares personal reflections and what community members can continue to do, creating more hope and opportunity rooted...
10.04.2021
Domestic Violence Awareness
In October, many people wear purple for domestic violence victims and survivors. As advocates come together to raise awareness and educate people on red flags, trauma, and the paralyzing fear that mental or physical abuse can have on a person,...
09.27.2021
Investing in Our Students: Legislation for a Better and More Effective Education System
A quality education lays the foundation of a successful future, giving kids the tools and resources they need to reach their goals. On this week’s episode of Whip Count, House Education Committee Chair Rep. Kim Williams and Vice-Chair Nnamdi Chukwuocha, discuss...
09.20.2021
”We Have To Be Bold”: Policies to Tackle Delaware‘s Mounting Environmental Concerns
Weeks ago, Hurricane Ida brought record-breaking and catastrophic flooding to our region, causing millions of dollars in damages. As so-called 100-year weather events like Ida become more and more commonplace in Delaware, the lowest-lying state in the nation, lawmakers are working...
09.13.2021
The Justice for All Agenda
Rep. Kendra Johnson and Rep. Sherry Dorsey Walker reflect on historic advances to tackle systemic racial injustice in Delaware. In June 2020, the Delaware Legislative Black Caucus unveiled an agenda, packed with bills, addressing police accountability and transparency as well as...
06.21.2021
Protecting LGBTQ+ and disability communities
On Thursday, June 17, lawmakers and advocates came together for a Pride Month rally to announce an historic constitutional amendment that would protect the rights of members of the LGBTQ+ and disability communities. HB 199 from House Majority Leader Valerie Longhurst...
06.14.2021
Tuition-Free College in Delaware
Delaware’s landmark SEED and INSPIRE scholarship programs have allowed thousands of residents to further their education and develop important skills without the financial burden that often accompanies higher education. Under new legislation proposed by Democratic lawmakers, these programs could be...
06.07.2021
Delaware's Paid-Leave Proposal
Delaware workers either struggle to balance work, family and health care needs because they don’t have access to unpaid leave. Saving vacation and sick time to make sure a paycheck isn’t missed is also a common reality for some families. The...
06.01.2021
Childcare and Campaign Funds
When it comes to campaigning, it's a job that isn't family friendly for candidates. In Delaware, people who are interested in running for a political seat can not legally draw from their funds to take care of child care expenses. HB...
05.24.2021
Delaware EARNS: Closing the Retirement Savings Gap
Saving for retirement is becoming an increasingly difficult dilemma for workers. In Delaware, as many as 200,000 employees lack access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan. To address this growing issue, Rep. Larry Lambert has worked with our State Treasurer to introduce...
05.17.2021
Police Body Camera Legislation
Delaware lawmakers consider legislation that would implement a statewide body-worn camera program. Sponsored by Rep. Sherry Dorsey Walker, HB 195 would require police officers to wear a body-worn camera. The mandate would also require some employees of the Department of Correction...
04.19.2021
Delaware Telehealth Services: Doctor's Visits From Home
Rep. David Bentz joins leaders from Christiana Care Health System to discuss expanding telehealth services for Delawareans through House Bill 160. According to those who support the proposed piece of legislation, all Delawareans deserve high-quality, affordable health care. Find out if...
03.29.2021
Financial Relief for Working Families: The Earned Income Tax Credit Explained
Last week, the House passed Rep. Paul Baumbach's House Bill 16, providing low-income individuals financial relief on their income taxes. House Bill 16 reforms the earned-income tax credit in Delaware so families can receive a few more dollars to help with...
03.22.2021
Environmental Policy: Solutions for a Safer and More Sustainable Delaware
Environmental issues affect our lives every day, whether it's flooding on our roadways or the energy used to power our homes. We’re only a few months into the 2021 session, and lawmakers have already introduced several pieces of legislation aimed...
03.19.2021
Legalization: The Delaware Marijuana Control Act Explained
Lawmakers in Delaware have introduced legislation that would legalize and regulate recreational marijuana for adult users, a measure supported by 60% of Delawareans. The Delaware Marijuana Control Act would authorize the cultivation, sale and possession of marijuana, while establishing a...
03.15.2021
The CROWN Act: Hair discrimination, impact and advocacy
Legislation designed to legally protect all people from hair discrimination could become law if the Delaware House advances SB 32. Rep. Kendra Johnson, Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown, and Rep. Nnamdi Chukwuocha came together to discuss the CROWN Act as well as the...
03.08.2021
House Bill 100: Providing Mental Health Resources for Elementary School Students
Elementary schoolchildren carry trauma and life experiences with them that immensely impact their school and home situations, and without access to mental health resources, these issues can spiral into full-blown crises. In Delaware, one school counselor may be responsible for...
03.01.2021
The Work Never Stops: Part-Time Legislators Work Around the Clock for Constituents
The Delaware legislature typically convenes for session about 45 days a year, however, the job of local legislators goes far beyond passing legislation. Our local “part-time” lawmakers stay busy 365 days a year as they help constituents, meet with organizations...
02.14.2021
Reflections on Black History Month
Black History Month may kick off in February but it doesn't end there. It's an opportunity to commemorate the achievements of African Americans and learn about men and women who have made great contributions across the world. Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester...
02.08.2021
Delaware Leaders Raise Awareness About Heart Health
Heart disease continues to be one of the greatest health threats to men and women across the globe. This information is highlighted annually during February, American Heart Month to encourage people to adopt healthier lifestyles. In Delaware, Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown, a...
02.01.2021
Education Priorities
In the last several years, House Democrats have proposed pieces of legislation aimed at addressing education issues such as lack of mental health resources in schools, inadequate special education funding, and teacher retention. This week, we’ll hear from a few of...
01.29.2021
Bonus Episode: State of the State 2021
Enjoy this bonus episode of Whip Count with the full audio of Governor John Carney's 2021 State of the State Address!
01.27.2021
Honoring Holocaust Remembrance Day: Holocaust Survivor Ann Jaffe's Story
To honor International Holocaust Remembrance Day, we're highlighting Holocaust survivor Ann Jaffe's story. In 2020, as Delaware lawmakers prepared to vote on a measure that would mandate Holocaust education for students in grades 6-12, Ann Jaffe addressed the General Assembly. Ann...
01.25.2021
Holocaust Education in Delaware
In 2020, the Delaware General Assembly passed legislation that requires schools to implement a curriculum on the Holocaust and genocide for students in grades 6-12, making Delaware the 15th state to enact such legislation. This legislation comes not a moment too...
01.17.2021
Delaware Legislators reflect on Dr. Martin Luther King's Legacy
Every year, people around the country recognize the accomplishments and impact Dr. Martin Luther King had on our society. King’s messages had an enormous effect on race relations in Delaware and across the United States; throughout and beyond the civil rights...
01.11.2021
Lawmakers and Citizen Advocacy
Everyday residents can play an important role in public policy. Advocacy work can be done as an individual or through a team of people with one goal in mind. In this episode of Whip Count, Rep. Debra Heffernan and Rep. Paul...
01.03.2021
Delaware's Virtual General Assembly Connects with Constituents
When news of Covid-19 hit and restrictions were put in place to stop the spread of the virus, many people anticipated things would be back to normal by 2021. However, that's not the case. Delaware's 151st General Assembly decided to go...

What's Whip Count about?

Download our free app to listen on your phone

Whip Count episodes:

Leaning Into Your Vulnerabilities

Making Way For Change: Children of Alcoholics Week

Catching Up With the Freshmen: Representative Sophie Phillips

The Right to a Healthy Environment: Delaware’s Green Amendment Explained

Catching Up With the Freshman: Representative Cyndie Romer

Aggressive Speeding

A Path Forward: Revising the Registry to Help Young Offenders Lead Productive Lives

The Delaware Climate Solutions Act

The Case for Regular Property Reassessments: House Bill 62 Explained

Spending Less & Saving More: Policies to Ease the Tax Burden on Working Delawareans

The Matthew D. Klosowski Act: Creating Safer Recovery Homes for Delawareans

Commemorating Holocaust Remembrance Day

Meet the Freshmen: New House members begin 2023 session

Criminal Justice Reform: Tracking Inmates

2022 Delaware Momnibus

Direct Payments for Delawareans: The 2022 Delaware Relief Rebate and Other Economic Empowerment Legislation Explained

Mental Health Education

The Delaware Legislative Women’s Caucus

The Cover All Delaware Children Act

Criminal Justice Reform: Second Chances

State of the State: Highlights and Reaction

Environmental Justice and Green Energy Investments

Environmental Justice and Green Energy Investments

Martin Luther King Day: Service, Reflection, and Education

Domestic Violence Awareness

Investing in Our Students: Legislation for a Better and More Effective Education System

”We Have To Be Bold”: Policies to Tackle Delaware‘s Mounting Environmental Concerns

The Justice for All Agenda

Protecting LGBTQ+ and disability communities

Tuition-Free College in Delaware

Delaware's Paid-Leave Proposal

Childcare and Campaign Funds

Delaware EARNS: Closing the Retirement Savings Gap

Police Body Camera Legislation

Delaware Telehealth Services: Doctor's Visits From Home

Financial Relief for Working Families: The Earned Income Tax Credit Explained

Environmental Policy: Solutions for a Safer and More Sustainable Delaware

Legalization: The Delaware Marijuana Control Act Explained

The CROWN Act: Hair discrimination, impact and advocacy

House Bill 100: Providing Mental Health Resources for Elementary School Students

The Work Never Stops: Part-Time Legislators Work Around the Clock for Constituents

Reflections on Black History Month

Delaware Leaders Raise Awareness About Heart Health

Education Priorities

Bonus Episode: State of the State 2021

Honoring Holocaust Remembrance Day: Holocaust Survivor Ann Jaffe's Story

Holocaust Education in Delaware

Delaware Legislators reflect on Dr. Martin Luther King's Legacy

Lawmakers and Citizen Advocacy

Delaware's Virtual General Assembly Connects with Constituents