Here is what happened this week for DAGA and our Democratic Attorneys General:

SLEEPING GIANTS: This week, the conservative Washington Times recognized the importance of the upcoming state Attorneys General races. The paper writes, “the fate of much of President Trump’s agenda will rest on the fate of a key handful of races for state attorneys general,” and cites the success Democratic Attorneys General have had in challenging the administration. Long story, short: we have a big map, with lots of opportunities, we are looking forward to November.

WOULD YOU LIKE A SIDE OF LEGAL HELP WITH THAT: On Monday, Massachusetts AG Maura Healey launched an 11 office investigation into a hiring practice in the fast food industry known as “no-poaching” agreements.  AG Healey noted that no-poach clauses “limit the ability of low-wage workers to seek promotions and earn a better living.” On Thursday, Washington AG Bob Ferguson announced negotiated agreements with seven large, corporate fast-food chains to stop this practice nationally. Read more about this investigation in The Washington Post here. And catch the latest from AG Ferguson in this press release here.

STATEWATCH: CALIFORNIA: California AG Xavier Becerra secured a major victory in federal court this week as a federal judge dismissed most of the federal government’s claims in USA v. CA, a case where the federal government attempted to block California’s laws that provide for the safety, health, and welfare of its people. AG Becerra’s statement highlighted that, “Under the Constitution, the people of California—not the Trump Administration—have the power to decide how to provide public safety and general welfare — just as they do in any other state.” Read more about the ruling in The Sacramento Bee here.

SILENCE FROM RAGA: It has been 11 days since allegations of sexual misconduct were reported against Republican Indiana AG Curtis Hill. The Republican Attorneys General Association has remained silent on addressing the issue. DAGA Co-chairs, District of Columbia AG Karl Racine, and Oregon AG Ellen Rosenblum, questioned RAGA’s silence, “Silence is unacceptable. Leadership requires action… We call on RAGA, starting with RAGA chair and Arkansas AG Leslie Rutledge, to end its silence. Time to demonstrate character and leaderships.”

#SCOTUS WATCH: With the nomination of Judge Kavanaugh to the U.S. Supreme Court, electing Democratic AGs in November is more important than ever. DAGA Co-chair and Oregon AG Ellen Rosenblum took the opportunity to remind folks that, “We are the lawyers that serve the people—and the majority of the people in our states and across the country support Roe and the ACA.  We will continue to fight to protect the freedoms our families and communities value most.” Read the full statement here.

ELECTIONS UPDATE: 115 days ‘til Election Day 2018!

#MeToo On The Trail: Last weekend, NBC News featured women candidates across the country, including Michigan candidate Dana Nessel, for a story on how the #MeToo movement is playing out on the campaign trail. The article highlighted Nessel’s fight for gender equality, and her dedication to the survivors of sexual harassment and sexual assault. Read the full story here.

COLORADO RACE HEATS UP: Law Week Colorado named the Colorado AG race as a “must-win election for both major parties.” The article highlighted the efforts of Phil Weiser to flip the AG seat this November and cited the DAGA poll which shows Weiser beating GOP challenger George Brauchler by over ten points. Read more here.

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BIG NEWS FROM BESHEAR: Kentucky AG Andy Beshear announced this week that he is running for Governor in Kentucky! DAGA Executive Director Sean Rankin applauded AG Beshear’s latest news and noted, “As a Kentuckian with deep roots in the Commonwealth, I know the difference between serving people and self-service. I know that [AG Beshear] is a leader who puts people above politics.” Read DAGA’s full statement here.

DON’T MESS WITH TEXAS: Huffington Post spotlighted Texas candidate Justin Nelsonfocusing on the close race, Nelson’s strong campaign, and the growing enthusiasm for Democrats in Texas. The piece also highlighted DAGA’s innovative texting program that has reached more than 100,000 voters in Texas. Read the full piece here.

CANDIDATE WATCH: Check out the video below to learn more about Nevada candidate Aaron Ford, his family & why he is will be a champion for Nevada as Attorney General.

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