Welcome to today’s edition of the Dogwood Daily. We’ve got a round-up of all the Virginia news that’s been happening coming right up. If you’re a fan, please forward to three friends who need to know what’s going on in the Commonwealth and tell them to subscribe here.
But First…
Mother’s Day is Sunday! This is your final warning to do something thoughtful for the mom figure(s) in your life. If you want some inspiration, check out this viral video from a few years ago offering candidates a chance at the world’s toughest job.
5 things you need to know today…
- Trump’s China tariffs hurt Virginia farmers most — Trade talks between President Trump and China fell through last night, and Trump responded by raising tariffs on $200 billion worth of imports. Trump said the move would improve the economy, but we explain why that will absolutely not be true for farmers in Virginia.
- Former Gov. Terry McAuliffe might run again — McAuliffe announced last month that he won’t run for president in 2020, but Politico reports that he is strongly considering a historic run for a second term as governor. We add some additional context here.
- Herring talks racial inequality — Attorney General Mark Herring hit the road Thursday to make good on a promise to counter racial inequities in Virginia after his own blackface scandal. Herring discussed the lack of African American judges in the Virginia circuit court, and changing the name of a highway named after segregationist Harry Byrd.
- Virginia hospitals adding more (needed) psychiatric beds — The Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association announced that Virginia hospitals are adding nearly 200 psychiatric beds, a move that will help all Virginians in crisis, including the 400,000 people in the state who are eligible for Medicaid.
- A sweet treat for Augusta — The Hershey Co. announced a $104 million expansion of its plant in August County on Thursday, creating 65 new jobs and adding 64,000 square feet to the existing plant. Gov. Ralph Northam celebrated the win for Virginia’s economy at the announcement ceremony.
