Speaking to the Speaker

To: Governor

From: Carole Schwotzer, Chief of Staff

Date: February 1

Re: State of novel influenza in

Dear Governor ,

Just when we thought our only concern would be a few potholes and securing your re-election in November, we are now facing an extremely precarious situation here in with the emergence of the novel influenza pandemic. The pandemic has created unprecedented suffering from medical and financial emergencies.

Per your request, an internal task force made up of the state’s epidemiologist, Susan Bywater, the state treasurer, and your campaign advisor Thomas Reardon, has been formed to assist you in response plans.

Public health officials have reported that there are cases across the state, hospitalizations, and deaths. In the coming weeks, officials project that we will experience a surge of cases, reaching up to cases and . In the coming weeks, our team will focus on lowering the rate of infection.

Treasurer warns that the response and plan of recovery will prove to be costly and that you should keep a close eye on the state’s resources and budget.

To reopen the state and restore normalcy, the President has issued some guidelines to follow. White House experts recommend that reopening not happen until there is a two week decrease in reported cases and hospitalizations. It is up to the states whether and how to respect those guidelines, of course.

In your response to the crisis, the task force members and I will assist you in the following areas:

• Signing a relief bill that will aid your constituents
• Working with the federal government to ensure that is able to benefit from emergency aid
• Reopen the state, as soon as we can, while preparing for a likely resurgence of the virus

Also, Tom wants me to remind you that your chances for reelection will be heavily dependent on your public approval ratings over the next few months. As a in a state, you are well aware that your approval rating is already , but we still need to watch it. Be sure to pay attention to their response to your policy plans!

Best regards,

Carole