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alan-greenblatt

Alan Greenblatt

Alan Greenblatt is a former editor of Governing. He is the co-author of a standard textbook on state and local governments. He previously worked as a reporter for NPR and CQ and has written about politics and culture for many other outlets, print and online. He can be reached at Alan.greenblatt@outlook.com and on X at @AlanGreenblatt.

The economy has proven to be more resilient than could have been imagined a year ago. Making future growth more equitable is a priority without obvious solutions.
The federal stimulus package provides $195 billion in aid to states but forbids them from using that money to pay for tax cuts. The law's language is broad enough to look like preemption.
The $1.9 trillion stimulus enacted last month includes $260 billion to extend enhanced unemployment benefits into September. Only a fraction will go to upgrading administration.
The stimulus increases the federal matching rate and offers other incentives to encourage holdout states to expand Medicaid. Most of the holdouts will still take a pass.
The federal government will soon provide $15 billion in aid to arts organizations. Few economic sectors have been hit as hard, but the money is contributing to a renewed sense of optimism.
The pandemic and vaccine rollout remain the top priority for counties. Federal stimulus dollars will help with that, along with other responsibilities, including public safety and schools.
A recall campaign against California's governor will succeed in triggering an election. But the governor enjoys deep Democratic loyalty in a state that's overwhelmingly on the party's side.
Given its location and the tax and deregulatory policies the governor has pursued, Arizona looks well-positioned for the economic recovery. The state still suffers one of the highest coronavirus caseloads, however.
Billions in new federal funding come with some strings attached. Nevertheless, the sheer amount will be enough to erase budget shortfalls in states and cities across the country.
Gov. Cuomo wouldn't be the first politician to ride out a political storm. If he does manage to survive, it might suggest the #MeToo movement has lost some of its sting.