Gun Sales Soar

First , they came for hand sanitizer and bleach wipes .
Then it was the toilet paper .
Now , its guns and ammunition .
Americans are lining up at local gun shops taking stock of their safety concerns and stocking up on guns and ammunition .
It ’ s showing that firearms continue to be a desired item and Americans are serious about providing for their safety – especially during times of uncertainty .
FBI ’ s National Instant Criminal Background Check System ( NICS ) told NSSF background check traffic saw a 300 percent increase on Monday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day in 2019 .
Daily volumes are roughly double what they were a year ago .
Coupled with measures to protect health , including having state-run background check authorities working from home or possibly closing offices , this is testing the limits of NICS .
That ’ s why NSSF and the FBI is alerting retailers that most checks will get an immediate determination ( “ proceed ” or “ deny ” ) , although it might take longer to process a check due to the volume .
The “ immediate ” part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that get a “ delay ” notification it ’ s important to keep in mind that NICS investigations might be slightly delayed and the three business days mandated by the Brady Act doesn ’ t include days when state offices are closed .
FBI NICS has assured NSSF they are working overtime to clear the unprecedented backlog .
Over the weekend , an NSSF employee helped a friend decide on the right gun he wanted for home security and general recreational shooting .
He decided on a shotgun .
Problem was the model @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his local firearms retailer .
They were sold out there and their other location .
That retailer called a couple other retailers to see of the model was in stock in their stores .
No luck .
Checks with three distributors found they were out too .
He ended up with a different make and model , not quite what he set out to buy .
The ordeal , though , showed the wave of buying wasn ’ t just rumor .
The Tampa Bay Times reported background checks for gun sales in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 75 percent above average .
Colorado sales doubled in the past week , with 14,604 background checks through the Colorado ’ s Bureau of Investigation .
That ’ s put a strain on the background check system .
The Truth About Guns reported delays in Colorado growing to nearly two days and in Washington State , which recently began conducting their own checks , as long as three weeks .
The New York Times , the Associated Press and LA Times were among dozens of news outlets running stories on the run on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doctor buying a firearm told a reporter , “ I want to buy a handgun , I think they call it a Glock , but I ’ m not sure .
I have a house and a family , and they ’ ll need protection if things get worse .
The fear is that civil services will break down.
” If the doctor was planning on walking out with the gun , he ’ s bound for disappointment .
After background checks and registration requirements , California law mandates he ’ s also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possession of his new firearm .
Ammunition sales are skyrocketing too .
Bearing Arms ’ Cam Edwards reported Ammo.com ’ s sales increased 276 percent from Feb. 23 through March 15 .
First time gun buyers are learning the gun control tropes of people being able to buy guns over the internet just isn ’ t true .
Omaha Outdoors reported they were having to tell many Californians , despite what gun control politicians claim , they can ’ t sell and ship guns online .
Those in even more restrictive states are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must endure to buy a gun and exercise rights .
• In Illinois , Massachusetts , Hawaii and New Jersey , gun owners must get a firearms owner identification card .
That ’ s not so simple when health concerns are causing government offices to shutter .
• California requires a Firearms Safety Certificate to purchase a gun .
Buying ammunition in California can only be done with its own background check .
• Connecticut requires an owner to obtain a handgun eligibility certificate .
Long guns in Connecticut require their own long @ @ @ @ @ @ @ five-year permit to buy a handgun .
• Maryland law requires a handgun qualification license .
Those buying modern sporting rifles , or what the state defines “ assault weapons ” must obtain a Regulated Firearms Purchase .
• Michigan law states anyone buying a handgun must have a valid handgun purchase license issued by local law enforcement or concealed carry license .
• Nebraska buyers must have a handgun certificate or a concealed weapon permit to buy handguns .
• New York has licensing requirements for handguns that require photographs and fingerprints @ @ @ @ @ @ @ process the license .
• North Carolina requires a permit to purchase from the county sheriff .
• Rhode Islanders must complete a two-hour safety class to obtain a safety certificate from the state ’ s Department of Environmental Management .
• Washingtonians must complete safety training within five years to buy semiautomatic rifles .
• Those living in Washington , D.C. , don ’ t have to get a license to buy , but the District ’ s registration requirements serve the same purpose as it must be completed and signed off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sales were already trending higher before widespread health concerns .
Since April 2019 , each month of NSSF ’ s adjusted NICS Reports has been higher than the year previous .
Much of that can be attributed to the near-constant hammering by gun control presidential candidates who have made threats of outright confiscation to Vice President Joe Biden ’ s threats to allow frivolous lawsuits against the firearm industry to send it into bankruptcy by overturning the bipartisan Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act .
The latest drive is showing Americans want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own safety , especially when those vying to run the government vow to take that ability away .

By Larry Keane
First, they came for hand sanitizer and bleach wipes. Then it was the toilet paper. Now, its guns and ammunition.
Americans are lining up at local gun shops taking stock of their safety concerns and stocking up on guns and ammunition. It’s showing that firearms continue to be a desired item and Americans are serious about providing for their safety – especially during times of uncertainty.
FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) told NSSF background check traffic saw a 300 percent increase on Monday, March 16, compared to the same day in 2019. Daily volumes are roughly double what they were a year ago.
Coupled with measures to protect health, including having state-run background check authorities working from home or possibly closing offices, this is testing the limits of NICS. That’s why NSSF and the FBI is alerting retailers that most checks will get an immediate determination (“proceed” or “deny”), although it might take longer to process a check due to the volume. The “immediate” part will require some patience. For checks that get a “delay” notification it’s important to keep in mind that NICS investigations might be slightly delayed and the three business days mandated by the Brady Act doesn’t include days when state offices are closed. FBI NICS has assured NSSF they are working overtime to clear the unprecedented backlog.
Long Lines
Over the weekend, an NSSF employee helped a friend decide on the right gun he wanted for home security and general recreational shooting. He decided on a shotgun. Problem was the model he wanted wasn’t available at his local firearms retailer. They were sold out there and their other location. That retailer called a couple other retailers to see of the model was in stock in their stores. No luck. Checks with three distributors found they were out too. He ended up with a different make and model, not quite what he set out to buy. The ordeal, though, showed the wave of buying wasn’t just rumor.
The Tampa Bay Times reported background checks for gun sales in the Sunshine State were as much as 75 percent above average. Colorado sales doubled in the past week, with 14,604 background checks through the Colorado’s Bureau of Investigation. That’s put a strain on the background check system. The Truth About Guns reported delays in Colorado growing to nearly two days and in Washington State, which recently began conducting their own checks, as long as three weeks.
The New York Times, the Associated Press and LA Times were among dozens of news outlets running stories on the run on guns and ammunition. One Los Angeles-area doctor buying a firearm told a reporter, “I want to buy a handgun, I think they call it a Glock, but I’m not sure. I have a house and a family, and they’ll need protection if things get worse. The fear is that civil services will break down.”
If the doctor was planning on walking out with the gun, he’s bound for disappointment. After background checks and registration requirements, California law mandates he’s also got to wait 10 days to take possession of his new firearm.
Ammunition sales are skyrocketing too. Bearing Arms’ Cam Edwards reported Ammo.com’s sales increased 276 percent from Feb. 23 through March 15.
Not So Easy
First time gun buyers are learning the gun control tropes of people being able to buy guns over the internet just isn’t true. Omaha Outdoors reported they were having to tell many Californians, despite what gun control politicians claim, they can’t sell and ship guns online. Those in even more restrictive states are learning the harsh realities that gun owners must endure to buy a gun and exercise rights.
In Illinois, Massachusetts, Hawaii and New Jersey, gun owners must get a firearms owner identification card. That’s not so simple when health concerns are causing government offices to shutter.
California requires a Firearms Safety Certificate to purchase a gun. Buying ammunition in California can only be done with its own background check.
Connecticut requires an owner to obtain a handgun eligibility certificate. Long guns in Connecticut require their own long gun eligibility certificate. Iowa requires a five-year permit to buy a handgun.
Maryland law requires a handgun qualification license. Those buying modern sporting rifles, or what the state defines “assault weapons” must obtain a Regulated Firearms Purchase.
Michigan law states anyone buying a handgun must have a valid handgun purchase license issued by local law enforcement or concealed carry license.
Nebraska buyers must have a handgun certificate or a concealed weapon permit to buy handguns.
New York has licensing requirements for handguns that require photographs and fingerprints and the state has six months to process the license.
North Carolina requires a permit to purchase from the county sheriff.
Rhode Islanders must complete a two-hour safety class to obtain a safety certificate from the state’s Department of Environmental Management.
Washingtonians must complete safety training within five years to buy semiautomatic rifles.
Those living in Washington, D.C., don’t have to get a license to buy, but the District’s registration requirements serve the same purpose as it must be completed and signed off before purchases can be made.
Gun sales were already trending higher before widespread health concerns. Since April 2019, each month of NSSF’s adjusted NICS Reports has been higher than the year previous. Much of that can be attributed to the near-constant hammering by gun control presidential candidates who have made threats of outright confiscation to Vice President Joe Biden’s threats to allow frivolous lawsuits against the firearm industry to send it into bankruptcy by overturning the bipartisan Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act.
The latest drive is showing Americans want to know they can provide for their own safety, especially when those vying to run the government vow to take that ability away.


thedailycaller--2020-03-18--Trump Administration Suspends Refugee Program During Coronavirus Outbreak

The Trump administration is placing a temporary pause on admissions of refugees into the United States , a response to the worldwide coronavirus pandemic .
The U.S .
Refugee Admissions Programs , which manages the number of refugees admitted into the country , confirmed to the Daily Caller News Foundation that it is pausing the program as the government continues to deal with COVID-19 .
The move follows decisions by the International Organization for Migration ( IOM ) and the U.N .
Refugee Agency to suspend resettlement efforts .
“ The U.S .
Refugee Admissions Program coordinates refugee arrivals with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and UNHCR , ” a State Department spokesperson told the DCNF on Wednesday .
“ The temporary suspension of resettlement travel programs globally will impact the arrival of refugees in the United States and other countries with refugee resettlement programs , ” the spokesperson continued .
The moratorium on refugee admissions will officially begin Thursday , and is expected to last until April 6 .
“ We will work with our implementing partners to plan for a resumption of refugee arrivals on or after April 7 , ” the State Department noted .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 travel restrictions as other travelers to the United States .
The Department of State has no higher priority than the welfare and safety of U.S. citizens.
” ( RELATED : Immigration Offices Closed To The Public , Interviews Canceled Amid Coronavirus Pandemic ) The Trump administration has taken numerous steps to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus within the country .
On Wednesday , President Donald Trump announced that all non-essential traffic between the U.S. and Canada would be suspended , and he confirmed that all illegal aliens and asylum seekers at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Trump administration , which has taken a hawkish approach to immigration enforcement , had already been reducing the number of refugees allowed in the United States .
The president lowered the 2020 refugee admissions ceiling to 18,000 for the 2020 fiscal year , the lowest level seen since the program was established .
So far , slightly over 6,000 refugees have been admitted into the U.S. this fiscal year .
Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our original content , please contact licensing @ dailycallernewsfoundation.org .

The Trump administration is placing a temporary pause on admissions of refugees into the United States, a response to the worldwide coronavirus pandemic.
The U.S. Refugee Admissions Programs, which manages the number of refugees admitted into the country, confirmed to the Daily Caller News Foundation that it is pausing the program as the government continues to deal with COVID-19. The move follows decisions by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the U.N. Refugee Agency to suspend resettlement efforts.
“The U.S. Refugee Admissions Program coordinates refugee arrivals with its international humanitarian implementing partners, IOM and UNHCR,” a State Department spokesperson told the DCNF on Wednesday.
“The temporary suspension of resettlement travel programs globally will impact the arrival of refugees in the United States and other countries with refugee resettlement programs,” the spokesperson continued.
The moratorium on refugee admissions will officially begin Thursday, and is expected to last until April 6.
“We will work with our implementing partners to plan for a resumption of refugee arrivals on or after April 7,” the State Department noted. “Refugees are subject to the same COVID-19 travel restrictions as other travelers to the United States. The Department of State has no higher priority than the welfare and safety of U.S. citizens.” (RELATED: Immigration Offices Closed To The Public, Interviews Canceled Amid Coronavirus Pandemic)
The Trump administration has taken numerous steps to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus within the country. On Wednesday, President Donald Trump announced that all non-essential traffic between the U.S. and Canada would be suspended, and he confirmed that all illegal aliens and asylum seekers at the southern border would be turned away.
The Trump administration, which has taken a hawkish approach to immigration enforcement, had already been reducing the number of refugees allowed in the United States.
The president lowered the 2020 refugee admissions ceiling to 18,000 for the 2020 fiscal year, the lowest level seen since the program was established. So far, slightly over 6,000 refugees have been admitted into the U.S. this fiscal year.
All content created by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent and nonpartisan newswire service, is available without charge to any legitimate news publisher that can provide a large audience. All republished articles must include our logo, our reporter’s byline and their DCNF affiliation. For any questions about our guidelines or partnering with us, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.


thedailycaller--2020-03-18--FACT CHECK: Is Dunkin’ Donuts Closing All Locations Over Coronavirus Concerns?

An image shared on Facebook allegedly shows a notice from CEO David Hoffmann announcing the closure of all Dunkin ’ Donuts locations to help prevent the spread of coronavirus .
The company said that it is not closing locations in a statement .
The notice being shared on Facebook has been fabricated .
Some doughnut and coffee lovers might have been alarmed to hear the rumor that Dunkin ’ would be shuttering all of its more than 11,300 locations worldwide to help curb the spread of coronavirus .
The claim appears to originate with a notice letter that has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ To prevent the spread of COVID-19 , all Dunkin ’ locations will be closed for business starting March 18 , 2020 until further notice , ” reads the alleged notice .
“ Thank you for your patience and understanding.
” But , according to a Dunkin ’ spokesperson , the notice is fake , and the chain has no plans to close its restaurants on March 18 .
( RELATED : Did Costco Recall Kirkland Toilet Paper Due To Coronavirus Contamination ? )
“ Contrary to rumors , Dunkin ’ restaurants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the drive-thru , with carry-out or delivery service , ” said the Dunkin ’ spokesperson in an email to the Daily Caller News Foundation .
“ Dunkin ’ is committed to taking care of our guests and being a place of comfort during this difficult time .
We and our franchisees are here to keep our guests running.
” Dunkin ’ is one of numerous chains that have pivoted to take-out , drive-through and delivery only to follow the recommendation from public health officials to practice social distancing .
Other chains who have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s , KFC and Chick-fil-A , according to Business Insider .
Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a large audience .
For licensing opportunities of our original content , please contact [ email protected ] .

An image shared on Facebook allegedly shows a notice from CEO David Hoffmann announcing the closure of all Dunkin’ Donuts locations to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.
Verdict: False
The company said that it is not closing locations in a statement. The notice being shared on Facebook has been fabricated.
Fact Check:
Some doughnut and coffee lovers might have been alarmed to hear the rumor that Dunkin’ would be shuttering all of its more than 11,300 locations worldwide to help curb the spread of coronavirus. The claim appears to originate with a notice letter that has been making the rounds on social media platforms.
“To prevent the spread of COVID-19, all Dunkin’ locations will be closed for business starting March 18, 2020 until further notice,” reads the alleged notice. “Thank you for your patience and understanding.”
But, according to a Dunkin’ spokesperson, the notice is fake, and the chain has no plans to close its restaurants on March 18. (RELATED: Did Costco Recall Kirkland Toilet Paper Due To Coronavirus Contamination?)
“Contrary to rumors, Dunkin’ restaurants remain open to serve our guests at the drive-thru, with carry-out or delivery service,” said the Dunkin’ spokesperson in an email to the Daily Caller News Foundation. “Dunkin’ is committed to taking care of our guests and being a place of comfort during this difficult time. We and our franchisees are here to keep our guests running.”
Dunkin’ is one of numerous chains that have pivoted to take-out, drive-through and delivery only to follow the recommendation from public health officials to practice social distancing. Other chains who have adopted these service practices include McDonald’s, KFC and Chick-fil-A, according to Business Insider.
All content created by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent and nonpartisan newswire service, is available without charge to any legitimate news publisher that can provide a large audience. All republished articles must include our logo, our reporter’s byline and their DCNF affiliation. For any questions about our guidelines or partnering with us, please contact [email protected].


thedailycaller--2020-03-18--Michael Bennet Met Coronavirus Patient But Won’t Self-Quarantine

Democratic Colorado Sen. Michael Bennet will not self-quarantine after meeting with a Coloradan who later tested positive for the novel coronavirus , according to a spokeswoman .
Bennet was informed of the potential exposure by the Denver public health agency Tri-County , according to Denver Post .
Republican Colorado Sen. Cory Gardner and Democratic Colorado Rep. Jason Crow both decided to self-quarantine Tuesday after being informed that they also met with a person who tested positive .
“ He appreciates Tri-County ’ s notification and recommendation , ” Courtney Gidner , Bennet ’ s spokeswoman , said according to Denver @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the attending physician of the U.S. Congress , who said that self-quarantining was not necessary and advised him to monitor his health , isolate in his home and office , and continue to practice social distancing and other protective measures.
” Bennet will be in the Senate for this week ’ s voting , according to Gidner .
It is not known if all three politicians met the same person who has the virus .
( RELATED : Ted Cruz Gifted Case Of Corona During Coronavirus Quarantine ) The decision to opt-out of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to discuss an economic stimulus package .
Bennet has proposed to send every American a $ 2,000 check and potential future payments depending on how the novel coronavirus affects America ’ s economy .
Bennet is a former Democratic presidential candidate .
He dropped out of the race in February 2020 .

Democratic Colorado Sen. Michael Bennet will not self-quarantine after meeting with a Coloradan who later tested positive for the novel coronavirus, according to a spokeswoman.
Bennet was informed of the potential exposure by the Denver public health agency Tri-County, according to Denver Post. Republican Colorado Sen. Cory Gardner and Democratic Colorado Rep. Jason Crow both decided to self-quarantine Tuesday after being informed that they also met with a person who tested positive.
“He appreciates Tri-County’s notification and recommendation,” Courtney Gidner, Bennet’s spokeswoman, said according to Denver Post. “Michael has consulted with the attending physician of the U.S. Congress, who said that self-quarantining was not necessary and advised him to monitor his health, isolate in his home and office, and continue to practice social distancing and other protective measures.”
Bennet will be in the Senate for this week’s voting, according to Gidner. It is not known if all three politicians met the same person who has the virus. (RELATED: Ted Cruz Gifted Case Of Corona During Coronavirus Quarantine)
The decision to opt-out of self-quarantine comes as the Senate is due to discuss an economic stimulus package. Bennet has proposed to send every American a $2,000 check and potential future payments depending on how the novel coronavirus affects America’s economy.
Bennet is a former Democratic presidential candidate. He dropped out of the race in February 2020.


thedailycaller--2020-03-18--H1N1 Response VS COVID-19 Response, Why So Different? We Asked Rep. Roger Marshall, M.D.

Dr. Roger Marshall , who representing Kansas ’ first district spoke with the Daily Caller ’ s Stephanie Hamill about the the latest regarding the coronavirus pandemic .
He also discussed the differences between the 2009 H1N1 pandemic response and coronavirus response .
“ First of all it has been sensationalized , so from day one the press has , they really have , the left socialist media has blown it out of proportion , they ’ ve used this as an attack tool on the president , but unfortunately it is a real virus and it has a higher @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those people with underlying medical problems ” said Marshall .
( RELATED : The Coronavirus VS Your Rights — Attorney Bob Bianchi Breaks It Down . )
Marshall went on to discuss what Congress can do to help Americans suffering from COVID-19 ’ s economic impact .
The views and opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and do not reflect the official position of The Daily Caller .
Check out TheDC ’ s fantastic videos and subscribe to our YouTube channel to avoid missing out .
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New Details About The ‘ Muslim Extremist ’ Compound In New Mexico Democrats ’ New Campaign Message : ‘ Drain The Swamp ’

Dr. Roger Marshall, who representing Kansas’ first district spoke with the Daily Caller’s Stephanie Hamill about the the latest regarding the coronavirus pandemic.
He also discussed the differences between the 2009 H1N1 pandemic response and coronavirus response.
“First of all it has been sensationalized, so from day one the press has, they really have, the left socialist media has blown it out of proportion, they’ve used this as an attack tool on the president, but unfortunately it is a real virus and it has a higher mortality rate on our senior citizens especially those people with underlying medical problems” said Marshall. (RELATED: The Coronavirus VS Your Rights — Attorney Bob Bianchi Breaks It Down.)
Marshall went on to discuss what Congress can do to help Americans suffering from COVID-19’s economic impact.
WATCH:
The views and opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and do not reflect the official position of The Daily Caller.
Check out TheDC’s fantastic videos and subscribe to our YouTube channel to avoid missing out.
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thedailycaller--2020-03-18--How America’s Governors Are Leading The Nation’s Coronavirus Response

While the Center for Disease Control ( CDC ) and World Health Organization ( WHO ) have established global and national guidelines to keep people safe during the coronavirus , U.S. governors and mayors have led the American response .
The federal government has recommended that people avoid large crowds , and that senior citizens stay at home unless absolutely necessary .
However , the responsibility of closing down businesses and shutting down events ultimately falls on state and local leaders .
( RELATED : ‘ Not Racist At All ’ : Trump Defends Calling Coronavirus The ‘ Chinese Virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DeWine has been on the front-lines of the government ’ s fight against the virus , and his decision to recommend that fans be banned from NCAA Tournament games in his state was ultimately the first domino that led to the tournament being canceled entirely , and the sports world coming to an indefinite halt .
DeWine later became the first governor to close all the bars and restaurants in his state on Sunday , and Democratic Illinois Gov .
J.B. Pritzker followed suit later that day .
DeWine and Pritzker sparked action @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down of bars and restaurants in major hubs like Washington D.C. and New York City .
These decisions came as outraged materialized over young Americans who flooded the bars over the weekend to celebrate Saint Patrick ’ s Day , despite warnings from health officials to practice social distancing .
Photographs and videos of young Americans partying and flaunting their revelry went viral throughout the weekend , and appeared to serve as a turning point in the fight against the coronavirus .
( RELATED : MLB Reportedly Expected To Suspend Operations Over Coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country , governors and mayors have used their executive power to close bars and restaurants , suspend schools , and even lock down their state or city .
Democratic San Francisco Mayor London Breed banned the nearly 884,000 people who live in her city from leaving their homes , except in cases of emergency , calling the virus a “ defining moment ” for the Bay area .
Democratic Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Browser ordered bars and restaurants in her city closed , while Democratic New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eight million residents of his city to prepare for a “ Shelter-in-Place ’ order .
In addition to states and cities shutting down dining and entertainment avenues , several states are taking the unprecedented step of postponing elections .
Ohio , Georgia , Kentucky , Louisiana , and Alabama are among the several states that have decided to postpone primary elections for federal and state office .
DeWine made perhaps his boldest move yet when he shut down polling places throughout Ohio , despite a judge ordering that the election must continue as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prevent Ohio voters from going to the polls came as three other states held their primaries , including Florida , which has one of the oldest and largest populations in the country .
All three primaries were overwhelmingly won by former Vice President Joe Biden , who is now widely considered to hold an insurmountable lead in the delegate count .
If Independent Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders ends his campaign in the near future , Biden would become the party ’ s presumptive nominee , Democrats could close their primaries , and people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waiting in long lines to vote .
States have the authority to oversee elections , and are the ones that decide if they are postponed or not .
This is particularly important to remember if the epidemic carries over to November , and impacts the presidential election .
In that case , governors who have been lauded for taking bold , decisive action will once again be under the microscope as they decide how their states will proceed in the presidential election .
While that election almost certainly won ’ t be canceled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suffering from breakouts could decide to close the polls and conduct the election through mail-in and absentee voting .
This would be unprecedented , but may be worth thinking about in light of recent events .
The coronavirus outbreak has led to a renewed appreciation for federalism from progressives , who have decried what they see as the federal government ’ s slow response to the pandemic .
Former South Bend , Indiana Mayor and 2020 Democratic presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg stated that “ we ’ re seeing mayors , governors , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the front lines.
” Meanwhile , left-wing Daily Beast editor Molly Jong-Fast bemoaned that states are “ basically governing themselves , ” because of Trump ’ s response .
“ So the states are basically governing themselves because our president doesn ’ t know how to president at all ?
” Jong-Fast asked .
However , it would be untrue to suggest that all progressives are unhappy with the federal government ’ s response to the pandemic .
Democratic Govs .
Andrew Cuomo of New York and Gavin Newsom of California have both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ states manage the crisis .
While the federal government has been more active over the past week , the U.S. system of government allows state and local officials to manage the crisis as they see fit .
( RELATED : Why Congress ’ Flawed Coronavirus Package Could Still Benefit Millions Of Americans ) America ’ s governors are leading America ’ s response to the coronavirus , and perhaps that ’ s the way it should be .

While the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) have established global and national guidelines to keep people safe during the coronavirus, U.S. governors and mayors have led the American response.


thedailycaller--2020-03-18--Bloomberg Is Spending $40 Million Combatting Coronavirus After Plowing $500 Million Into A Failed An

Bloomberg Is Spending $40 Million Combatting Coronavirus After Plowing $500 Million Into A Failed Anti-Trump White House Bid

Former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg pledged Tuesday to spend $ 40 million to tackle the coronavirus outbreak less than a month after plowing half a billion in a losing White House bid .
Bloomberg ’ s primary charity is using cash infusion to bankroll the training of health care workers who are working in Africa and elsewhere to fight the virus .
The former Republican-turned-Democrat ’ s contribution will also help finance research labs working with the deadly strain .
“ Millions of lives depend on getting the coronavirus response right — and so does the economic and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We need to slow transmission of the virus and minimize the impact of the outbreak in all countries , ” Bloomberg said in a statement announcing the move .
He is using Bloomberg Philanthropies to distribute the donations .
Bloomberg gained notoriety for spending roughly $ 5 million on each delegate he won on Super Tuesday after plowing more than $ 500 million into an ill-fated White House bid targeting President Donald Trump .
He suspended his campaign March 4 after a poor showing .
“ The challenge of the moment is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and do everything we can to defeat him , ” Bloomberg said in a statement in February before bailing on the bid .
“ The President ’ s attack on me clearly reflects his fear over the growing strength of my campaign.
” The New York billionaire dumped more than $ 234 million into TV , radio and digital ads in the Super Tuesday states .
His campaign ’ s money pit caught the Trump campaign ’ s attention as well .
( RELATED : Sanders , Biden , Bloomberg Have Paid Combined @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meanwhile , donated his fourth quarter salary March 3 to the Department of Health and Human Services in a bid to help the agency pursue solutions to the virus spread , which is believed to have originated December 2019 in Wuhan , China .
The virus has spread since February to 36 other countries and territories and has a global death toll of 3,041 , according to the CDC ‘ s numbers .
Bloomberg Philanthropies has not responded to the Daily Caller News Foundation ’ s request for comment about the nature of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a large audience .
For licensing opportunities of our original content , please contact licensing @ dailycallernewsfoundation.org .

Former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg pledged Tuesday to spend $40 million to tackle the coronavirus outbreak less than a month after plowing half a billion in a losing White House bid.
Bloomberg’s primary charity is using cash infusion to bankroll the training of health care workers who are working in Africa and elsewhere to fight the virus. The former Republican-turned-Democrat’s contribution will also help finance research labs working with the deadly strain.
“Millions of lives depend on getting the coronavirus response right — and so does the economic and social health of communities around the world. We need to slow transmission of the virus and minimize the impact of the outbreak in all countries,” Bloomberg said in a statement announcing the move. He is using Bloomberg Philanthropies to distribute the donations.
Bloomberg gained notoriety for spending roughly $5 million on each delegate he won on Super Tuesday after plowing more than $500 million into an ill-fated White House bid targeting President Donald Trump. He suspended his campaign March 4 after a poor showing.
“The challenge of the moment is clear: we must confront this President and do everything we can to defeat him,” Bloomberg said in a statement in February before bailing on the bid. “The President’s attack on me clearly reflects his fear over the growing strength of my campaign.”
The New York billionaire dumped more than $234 million into TV, radio and digital ads in the Super Tuesday states. His campaign’s money pit caught the Trump campaign’s attention as well. (RELATED: Sanders, Biden, Bloomberg Have Paid Combined $466,000 To Superdelegates)
Trump, meanwhile, donated his fourth quarter salary March 3 to the Department of Health and Human Services in a bid to help the agency pursue solutions to the virus spread, which is believed to have originated December 2019 in Wuhan, China.
The virus has spread since February to 36 other countries and territories and has a global death toll of 3,041, according to the CDC‘s numbers. Bloomberg Philanthropies has not responded to the Daily Caller News Foundation’s request for comment about the nature of the former mayor’s contribution.
All content created by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent and nonpartisan newswire service, is available without charge to any legitimate news publisher that can provide a large audience. All republished articles must include our logo, our reporter’s byline and their DCNF affiliation. For any questions about our guidelines or partnering with us, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.


thedailycaller--2020-03-18--Senate Passes Coronavirus Aid Package

Senate Passes Coronavirus Aid Package

The Senate passed a bill Wednesday to help provide money to businesses and citizens suffering from the deadly coronavirus pandemic .
Ninety congressmen voted for the bill and 8 voted against it , according to NPR .
The vote comes after The House of Representatives passed a reworked coronavirus bill Monday .
The House approved the plan via unanimous consent .
The House then sent the original coronavirus package plus a retooled version to the Senate .
The Senate then passed three separate bills which will now be sent to President Donald Trump .
( RELATED : House Passes Updated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McConnell said Tuesday he decided to vote on the House bills as soon as possible and not blend the House bills with the upcoming Senate legislation .
He also added that the Senate will not leave until they pass the next coronavirus bill .
Trump signed an $ 8.3 billion funding bill Friday to help fight coronavirus .
That bill gives more than $ 3 billion for the research and development of vaccines .
There is also $ 800 million for research for treatments .
It also includes $ 2 billion for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CDC ) and $ 61 million to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ( FDA ) , according to Yahoo Finance .
( RELATED : Senate Passes Coronavirus Spending Bill ) Trump held a press conference at the end of February discussing how the U.S. will deal with the disease and put Vice President Mike Pence in charge of the task force .
( RELATED : President Trump Appoints Vice President Pence To Head Coronavirus Task Force )

The Senate passed a bill Wednesday to help provide money to businesses and citizens suffering from the deadly coronavirus pandemic.
The Senate overwhelmingly approved of the coronavirus aid package that provides paid sick leave, expands unemployment assistance and resources for testing. Ninety congressmen voted for the bill and 8 voted against it.
The vote comes after The House of Representatives passed a reworked coronavirus bill Monday. The House approved the plan via unanimous consent. The House then sent the original coronavirus package plus a retooled version to the Senate. The Senate then passed three separate bills which will now be sent to President Donald Trump. (RELATED: House Passes Updated Coronavirus Bill)
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said Tuesday he decided to vote on the House bills as soon as possible and not blend the House bills with the upcoming Senate legislation. He also added that the Senate will not leave until they pass the next coronavirus bill.
(RELATED: Senate Passes Coronavirus Spending Bill) Trump signed an $8.3 billion funding bill Friday to help fight coronavirus. That bill gives more than $3 billion for the research and development of vaccines. There is also $800 million for research for treatments. It also includes $2 billion for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and $61 million to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), according to Yahoo Finance.


thedailycaller--2020-03-18--Trump Confirms He Is Shutting Off Southern Border To Illegal Aliens And Asylum Seekers

President Donald Trump confirmed reports that his administration will turn away illegal aliens and asylum seekers at the U.S.-Mexico border .
Trump confirmed speculation that the southern border will be closed off to asylum seekers and anyone else who attempts to enter the United States illegally during a White House press briefing Wednesday regarding the latest developments on the coronavirus pandemic .
“ On asylum seekers and people who cross the southern border illegally , are you planning to invoke [ 42 U.S. Code § 265 ] which would allow you to prohibit entry of certain people across the board @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday .
When asked when this order will take place , Trump said it would be executed “ very soon , probably today.
” Under 42 U.S. Code § 265 — a subsection of the U.S. legal code — the Surgeon General has the authority , with approval by the president , to prohibit the entry of individuals and property in the existence of any communicable disease in a foreign country .
Such an order can be executed for as long as the Surgeon General deems necessary in the interest of public health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ destination for foreign nationals either hoping to claim asylum or enter the interior of the U.S. illegally .
Customs and Border Protection ( CBP ) apprehended more than 851,000 individuals along the U.S.-Mexico border in fiscal year 2019 , a time when the administration dealt with an unprecedented influx of family units from Central America .
Earlier on Wednesday , an official with the Department of Homeland Security ( DHS ) said the administration is considering all options to protect U.S. citizens .
( RELATED : ‘ We ’ re Taking An Overabundance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ For Spread Of Coronavirus ) “ The president is 100 % committed to protecting the American people against the spread of the coronavirus and all options are on the table , ” Heather Swift , a DHS spokeswoman , told the Daily Caller News Foundation .
Trump earlier in March announced a near-total travel ban from Europe to the United States .
He also announced Wednesday that all non-essential traffic between the U.S.-Canada border , with consent from the Canadian government , would be temporarily closed .
Content created by The Daily Caller @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any eligible news publisher that can provide a large audience .
For licensing opportunities of our original content , please contact licensing @ dailycallernewsfoundation.org .

President Donald Trump confirmed reports that his administration will turn away illegal aliens and asylum seekers at the U.S.-Mexico border.
Trump confirmed speculation that the southern border will be closed off to asylum seekers and anyone else who attempts to enter the United States illegally during a White House press briefing Wednesday regarding the latest developments on the coronavirus pandemic.
“On asylum seekers and people who cross the southern border illegally, are you planning to invoke [42 U.S. Code § 265] which would allow you to prohibit entry of certain people across the board,” a reporter asked Trump on Wednesday.
“The answer is yes,” he answered.
When asked when this order will take place, Trump said it would be executed “very soon, probably today.”
Under 42 U.S. Code § 265 — a subsection of the U.S. legal code — the Surgeon General has the authority, with approval by the president, to prohibit the entry of individuals and property in the existence of any communicable disease in a foreign country. Such an order can be executed for as long as the Surgeon General deems necessary in the interest of public health.
The southern border is a top destination for foreign nationals either hoping to claim asylum or enter the interior of the U.S. illegally. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) apprehended more than 851,000 individuals along the U.S.-Mexico border in fiscal year 2019, a time when the administration dealt with an unprecedented influx of family units from Central America.
Earlier on Wednesday, an official with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said the administration is considering all options to protect U.S. citizens. (RELATED: ‘We’re Taking An Overabundance Of Caution’: Border Patrol Braces For Spread Of Coronavirus)
“The president is 100% committed to protecting the American people against the spread of the coronavirus and all options are on the table,” Heather Swift, a DHS spokeswoman, told the Daily Caller News Foundation.
Trump earlier in March announced a near-total travel ban from Europe to the United States. He also announced Wednesday that all non-essential traffic between the U.S.-Canada border, with consent from the Canadian government, would be temporarily closed.
All content created by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent and nonpartisan newswire service, is available without charge to any legitimate news publisher that can provide a large audience. All republished articles must include our logo, our reporter’s byline and their DCNF affiliation. For any questions about our guidelines or partnering with us, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.


thedailycaller--2020-03-18--‘I’m Dealing With A Fu**ing Global Crisis’: Bernie Sanders Explodes At CNN Reporter Manu Raju

Independent Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders lost his cool Wednesday at CNN Capitol Hill Correspondent Manu Raju after Raju asked the senator about the future of his presidential campaign .
“ I ’ m dealing with a fu**ing global crisis .
You know , we ’ re dealing with , ” Sanders said .
Sanders continued to eviscerate Raju ’ s line of questioning , according to the CNN reporter ’ s Twitter account .
( RELATED : CNN ’ s Dana Bash Praises Trump On Air , But She Instantly Clarifies On Twitter ) “ Well right now , right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my best to make sure that we don ’ t have an economic meltdown and that people don ’ t die , ” Sanders said .
“ Is that enough for you to keep me busy for today ?
” The future of Sanders ’ campaign was the subject of speculation on social media throughout the day Wednesday after the senator suffered three lopsided defeats to former Vice President Joe Biden , who continues to build an insurmountable delegate advantage over Sanders .
Raju has been chided for his reporting by U.S. senators @ @ @ @ @ @ @ called Raju a “ liberal hack ” during a tense encounter on Capitol Hill in January .
“ You ’ re a liberal hack – I ’ m not talking to you .
You ’ re a liberal hack , ” McSally told Raju at the time .

Independent Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders lost his cool Wednesday at CNN Capitol Hill Correspondent Manu Raju after Raju asked the senator about the future of his presidential campaign.
“I’m dealing with a fu**ing global crisis. You know, we’re dealing with,” Sanders said.
Sanders continued to eviscerate Raju’s line of questioning, according to the CNN reporter’s Twitter account. (RELATED: CNN’s Dana Bash Praises Trump On Air, But She Instantly Clarifies On Twitter)
“Well right now, right now I’m trying to do my best to make sure that we don’t have an economic meltdown and that people don’t die,” Sanders said. “Is that enough for you to keep me busy for today?”
Sen. Bernie Sanders grew angry when asked about his campaign plans. During a gaggle with reporters in the Capitol, I asked Sanders about his timeframe for making a decision, and he lashed out: “I’m dealing with a fucking global crisis. You know, we’re dealing with.” — Manu Raju (@mkraju) March 18, 2020
The future of Sanders’ campaign was the subject of speculation on social media throughout the day Wednesday after the senator suffered three lopsided defeats to former Vice President Joe Biden, who continues to build an insurmountable delegate advantage over Sanders.
Raju has been chided for his reporting by U.S. senators before. Republican Arizona Sen. Martha McSally called Raju a “liberal hack” during a tense encounter on Capitol Hill in January.
“You’re a liberal hack – I’m not talking to you. You’re a liberal hack,” McSally told Raju at the time.


thedailycaller--2020-03-19--Here’s Why A Small Website Is Accusing AT&T Of Purposely Blocking Conference Calls Amid Coronavirus

Here’s Why A Small Website Is Accusing AT&T Of Purposely Blocking Conference Calls Amid Coronavirus Outbreak

A company that provides conference call services online is taking drastic measures against AT & T for supposedly blocking customers from making conference calls amid the coronavirus pandemic .
FreePhoneConference.com filed a complaint March 13 with the Federal Communications Commission alleging the telecommunications giant is purposely throttling conference calls .
The Daily Caller News Foundation obtained a copy of the complaint as well as memos documenting the fight .
AT & T admitted to the FCC that it blocks some connections with a company called Wide Voice , which provides teleconferencing services to customers across the globe .
( RELATED @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Differences Aside , Brainstorm Ways Google , Facebook Can Confront Coronavirus ) The FCC declined to comment while AT & T directed the DCNF to a January court order reprimanding FreeConferenceCall for not complying with a rule the agency crafted in 2019 to ending a scheme allowing rural phone companies to work with free conference calling services to increase caller volume .
Such a move allows rural companies to collect access charges from long distance phone carriers , effectively costing American consumers an estimated $ 60 million to $ 80 million annually , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ September 2019 addressing the rule change .
Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a large audience .
For licensing opportunities of our original content , please contact licensing @ dailycallernewsfoundation.org .

A company that provides conference call services online is taking drastic measures against AT&T for supposedly blocking customers from making conference calls amid the coronavirus pandemic.
FreeConferenceCall.com filed a complaint March 13 with the Federal Communications Commission alleging the telecommunications giant is purposely throttling conference calls. The Daily Caller News Foundation obtained a copy of the complaint as well as memos documenting the fight.
“AT&T is blocking calls,” Lauren Coppola, an attorney with Robins Kaplan LLP, wrote in the complaint to the FCC’s Market Disputes Resolution Division. Coppola’s firm represents FreeConferenceCall.com founder and CEO David Erickson’s website in the matter. “Throughout the advent of modern telecommunications, the Commission has held that call blocking runs afoul of section 201(a) of the Federal Telecommunications Act of 1996,” Coppola added. FreeConferenceCall.com’s argument hinges on an obscure FCC ruling regarding rural phone operators. FreeConferenceCall.com began generating revenue for the first time in 2005 when it entered into profit-sharing agreements with local exchange carriers (or LECs) in rural areas. LECs were permitted to charge AT&T and other phone carriers to connect calls to conference call numbers.
AT&T admitted to the FCC that it blocks some connections with a company called Wide Voice, which provides teleconferencing services to customers across the globe. AT&T argues it blocks WideVoice because the website relies on phone companies that artificially pumps up traffic.
“AT&T currently sees some, but minimal, call blocking at its direct connects and will continue its expedited work with Wide Voice to augment those connections,” in a March 6 letter executives from AT&T, Verizon Wireless and other telecommunications companies sent to the FCC.
The FCC declined to comment while AT&T directed the DCNF to a January court order reprimanding FreeConferenceCall.com for not complying with a rule the agency crafted in 2019 to ending a scheme allowing rural phone companies to work with free conference calling services to increase caller volume.
Such a move allows rural companies to collect access charges from long distance phone carriers, effectively costing American consumers an estimated $60 million to $80 million annually, according to a statement FCC published in September 2019 addressing the rule change.
“One access arbitrage scheme has resulted in twice as many minutes of calls per month being routed to Redfield, South Dakota, population 2,300, as is routed to all of Verizon’s facilities in New York City, population 8.5 million,” the FCC noted. The abnormally high volume can lead to blocked or dropped calls , the agency noted.
FreeConferenceCall.com, Zoom, and other companies that provide conference services have a lot to fight over as people who are social distancing due to the coronavirus seek ways of working virtually. (RELATED: Trump And Big Tech Put Their Differences Aside, Brainstorm Ways Google, Facebook Can Confront Coronavirus) “We feel the complaint speaks for itself. Call blocking is never justified and AT&T should not be blocking calls,” Erickson said in a statement to the DCNF, adding: “There is never any justification for blocking calls.” The website is seeing a surge in business, with account creations increasing 42% in the United Kingdom, 3,442% in Italy, and 393% in Japan, according to a March 12 press statement FreeConferenceCall.com published via PR Newswire. Universities are following suit as well. University of Notre Dame, Villanova University, University of Minnesota, the State University of New York (SUNY) and the City University of New York (CUNY) are among the latest colleges are cancelling in-person classes and switching to virtual instructions. Harvard, Yale, Columbia, and Cornell, and Princeton have also canceled classes or closed outright.
All content created by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent and nonpartisan newswire service, is available without charge to any legitimate news publisher that can provide a large audience. All republished articles must include our logo, our reporter’s byline and their DCNF affiliation. For any questions about our guidelines or partnering with us, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.


thedailycaller--2020-03-19--Similar To WWII, Companies Are Repurposing To Fight The Coronavirus

Just like during World War II , companies across the west have started repurposing to make things like medical equipment and high-proof alcohol sanitizer to help fight against the coronavirus .
Unlike at the start of the WWII when factories repurposed to make things like weapons and supplies , companies are now switching over to produce disease fighting products .
High-end perfume factories are making hand sanitizer , a car-parts manufacturer is making hygienic masks and even an earthmoving-equipment maker is looking to make much-needed ventilators , as noted by the Wall Street Journal in a piece published Thursday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ List Of How Every Country In The World Is Responding To Coronavirus ) Companies in numerous other fields have started to respond as well .
Distilleries in Kentucky , Texas and Pennsylvania have turned from making high-proof alcohol to making hand sanitizer .
According to the WSJ report : A distillery in Pennsylvania has temporarily halted operations to produce high-proof alcohol sanitizer , according to the Associated Press .
Eight Oaks Farm Distillery , produced twenty bottles of the alcohol-based disinfectant earlier in the week .
The products were then sent to various @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sanitizer due to fear of the spread of COVID-19 .
“ We are in a national emergency , ” brewery founder Chad Butters shared .
“ What ’ s the right thing to do ?
The right thing to do is support this community by providing something that is in desperate need .
We ’ ll flood the valley with hand sanitizer and drive that price right down.
” While French blue jean maker 1083 , which has seen demand plummet amid the pandemic , started making makeshift sanitary masks , which have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than jeans , Thomas Huriez , founder of the company shared .
Auto maker Vauxhall , in the United Kingdom , offered to start assembling life-saving ventilator devices at its plant in England , with General Motors and Ford looking to put their idle factories to work by making medical equipment .
Germany ’ s Agriculture and Food Minister Julia Klöckner shared in a news conference Tuesday how the country was looking to employ unemployed workers such as waiters to harvest its fields .
“ Unfortunately there are sectors where orders have sunk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ We ’ re looking at how we could bring some of these people into agriculture without too many bureaucratic hurdles.
” Perfume company , LVMH , announced it too would be converting its manufacturing facilities in France , which normally would make fragrances for brands like Givenchy and Christian Dior , to make hand sanitizer instead .
“ We are at war , ” French President Emmanuel Macron shared in a speech on Monday .
“ The enemy is invisible , elusive and it ’ s advancing .
We must mobilize.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Here ’ s What Every State In America Is Doing To Combat The Spread Of The Coronavirus ) On Wednesday , President Donald Trump invoked the Defense Production Act in order to fight against the pandemic , “ just in case we need it.
” The Cold War-era measure gives the president powers to pressure companies to produce goods tied to national defense .
( RELATED : REPORT : Coachella Potentially Rescheduled To October Due To Coronavirus Fears )

Just like during World War II, companies across the west have started repurposing to make things like medical equipment and high-proof alcohol sanitizer to help fight against the coronavirus.
Unlike at the start of the WWII when factories repurposed to make things like weapons and supplies, companies are now switching over to produce disease fighting products. High-end perfume factories are making hand sanitizer, a car-parts manufacturer is making hygienic masks and even an earthmoving-equipment maker is looking to make much-needed ventilators, as noted by the Wall Street Journal in a piece published Thursday. (RELATED: Here’s A List Of How Every Country In The World Is Responding To Coronavirus)
In World War II, factories retooled to make arms. In the war on the coronavirus, consumer companies are repurposing to build weapons against it. https://t.co/4Qq3prgkgc — The Wall Street Journal (@WSJ) March 19, 2020
Companies in numerous other fields have started to respond as well. Distilleries in Kentucky, Texas and Pennsylvania have turned from making high-proof alcohol to making hand sanitizer.
According to the WSJ report:
French spirits giant Pernod Ricard SA says it is making sanitizer at plants in the U.S. and supplying alcohol for others to make it from plants in Europe. That includes whiskey distilleries for the Pernod brands Rabbit Hole in Kentucky, Smooth Ambler in West Virginia and TX Whiskey in Texas. In Sweden, Pernod’s Absolut Vodka brand is donating alcohol for hand sanitizer production, Pernod says.
A distillery in Pennsylvania has temporarily halted operations to produce high-proof alcohol sanitizer, according to the Associated Press. Eight Oaks Farm Distillery, produced twenty bottles of the alcohol-based disinfectant earlier in the week. The products were then sent to various charitable groups that were unable to locate sanitizer due to fear of the spread of COVID-19.
“We are in a national emergency,” brewery founder Chad Butters shared. “What’s the right thing to do? The right thing to do is support this community by providing something that is in desperate need. We’ll flood the valley with hand sanitizer and drive that price right down.”
While French blue jean maker 1083, which has seen demand plummet amid the pandemic, started making makeshift sanitary masks, which have been “much easier to make” than jeans, Thomas Huriez, founder of the company shared.
Auto maker Vauxhall, in the United Kingdom, offered to start assembling life-saving ventilator devices at its plant in England, with General Motors and Ford looking to put their idle factories to work by making medical equipment.
Germany’s Agriculture and Food Minister Julia Klöckner shared in a news conference Tuesday how the country was looking to employ unemployed workers such as waiters to harvest its fields.
“Unfortunately there are sectors where orders have sunk to nearly zero,” Klöckner shared. “We’re looking at how we could bring some of these people into agriculture without too many bureaucratic hurdles.”
Perfume company, LVMH, announced it too would be converting its manufacturing facilities in France, which normally would make fragrances for brands like Givenchy and Christian Dior, to make hand sanitizer instead.
“We are at war,” French President Emmanuel Macron shared in a speech on Monday. “The enemy is invisible, elusive and it’s advancing. We must mobilize.” (RELATED: LIVE UPDATES: Here’s What Every State In America Is Doing To Combat The Spread Of The Coronavirus)
On Wednesday, President Donald Trump invoked the Defense Production Act in order to fight against the pandemic, “just in case we need it.” The Cold War-era measure gives the president powers to pressure companies to produce goods tied to national defense. (RELATED: REPORT: Coachella Potentially Rescheduled To October Due To Coronavirus Fears)


thedailycaller--2020-03-19--State Department Issues ‘Level 4: Do Not Travel’ Advisory

The U.S. Department of State announced on Thursday it was issuing a ‘ Global Level 4 Health Advisory ’ due to the outbreak of COVID-19 , raising it from a Level 3 .
A ‘ Level 4 ’ advisory is a ‘ Do Not Travel ’ status usually reserved for countries in a state of war .
In a statement , the State Department said they are advising “ U.S .
citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19.
” Additionally , it is advising all citizens to return immediately to the U.S. in countries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the risk of contracting the virus , many countries have implemented quarantines , closed borders , and restricted travel of foreign nationals leaving the possibility of Americans being stranded abroad .
The U.S. and Canada recently agreed to close the border between the two nations to non-essential travel .
In addition , the State Department is also authorizing the return of U.S. personnel and their families from diplomatic posts who are at a higher risk of complications due to the virus .
( RELATED : All You Need To Know About Catching Coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comes as the death toll in Italy surpasses that of China , and COVID-19 cases in the United States surged overnight , in line with the ramp up of testing across all 50 states .
The travel advisory is the latest in a wide range of guidelines and restrictions aimed at keeping Americans healthy , hospitals operating within their capacity , and flattening the curve .
The U.S. and Canada recently agreed to close the border between the two nations to non-essential travel .
Additionally , restrictions have also been implemented on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Alabama closing , and restaurants limiting dining room capacity and hours of operations .

The U.S. Department of State announced on Thursday it was issuing a ‘Global Level 4 Health Advisory’ due to the outbreak of COVID-19, raising it from a Level 3. A ‘Level 4’ advisory is a ‘Do Not Travel’ status usually reserved for countries in a state of war. In a statement, the State Department said they are advising “U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19.”
Additionally, it is advising all citizens to return immediately to the U.S. in countries where commercial options remain available. Beyond the risk of contracting the virus, many countries have implemented quarantines, closed borders, and restricted travel of foreign nationals leaving the possibility of Americans being stranded abroad. The U.S. and Canada recently agreed to close the border between the two nations to non-essential travel.
Travel Advisory: Level 4 – The Department of State advises U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of #COVID19. In countries where commercial departure options remain available, U.S. citizens who live in the US should arrange for immediate return. pic.twitter.com/MydSzFffYd — Travel – State Dept (@TravelGov) March 19, 2020
In addition, the State Department is also authorizing the return of U.S. personnel and their families from diplomatic posts who are at a higher risk of complications due to the virus. (RELATED: All You Need To Know About Catching Coronavirus By Touching Surfaces)
This unprecedented announcement comes as the death toll in Italy surpasses that of China, and COVID-19 cases in the United States surged overnight, in line with the ramp up of testing across all 50 states.
NEW: the Thursday 19 March update of our coronavirus mortality trajectories tracker • Italy now has more Covid-19 deaths than China’s total
• UK remains on a steeper mortality curve than Italy, while Britain remains far from lockdown Live version here: https://t.co/VcSZISFxzF pic.twitter.com/QvByzSj6QX — John Burn-Murdoch (@jburnmurdoch) March 19, 2020
The travel advisory is the latest in a wide range of guidelines and restrictions aimed at keeping Americans healthy, hospitals operating within their capacity, and flattening the curve. The U.S. and Canada recently agreed to close the border between the two nations to non-essential travel. Additionally, restrictions have also been implemented on a state level, with beaches in Florida and Alabama closing, and restaurants limiting dining room capacity and hours of operations.


thedailycaller--2020-03-19--What FFLs Need To Know Right Now

What FFLs Need To Know Right Now

As our nation continues to navigate its response to the COVID-19 , we recognize the firearm industry , like many others , is being impacted .
NSSF® is aware of delays within the FBI ’ s National Instant Criminal Background Check ( NICS ) System .
FFLs need to know that the FBI is on the job and working diligently to address the dramatic response and increase in background checks experienced over the past few days .
As we noted here on Monday , March 16 , 2020 , the NICS staff experienced more than a 300 % increase compared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
States that process their own NICS checks are reporting similar spikes .
Colorado ’ s Bureau of Investigation , for example , announced that checks last week were double the same week last year , and the increased volume has created a backlog of about 5,000 checks awaiting processing .
Wait times have increased from between five and eight minutes to two days .
As we ’ ve seen in the past with other national events , our citizens often seek to exercise their Second Amendment rights during times of uncertainty .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ states and localities are considering measures that seek to shut non-essential businesses .
There is nothing more essential than our Constitutional right to protect ourselves , our families and our property .
According to NICS , there are delays in the system due to an astronomical volume of transactions over the last several days .
While much of the NICS System is automated and yields an immediate “ proceed ” or “ deny ” determination , transactions that result in a delayed status require the work of NICS examiners to investigate whether the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ volumes roughly double that of last year , the NICS team is unable to begin investigations on all delays within three business days , creating a backlog in the delayed checks .
Some states offices and agencies are considering options to protect the health and safety of their employees , which may include a reduction in staff or a temporary closure .
For FFLs in one of these areas that receive a delayed response from the NICS , please note the Brady transfer date provided to you by the FBI could be extended @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The three-business-day time frame does not begin until relevant state offices are open for business .
Additionally , because of the dramatic increase in volume , it is important to recognize that FBI staff may not be able to begin their research on delayed transactions as they normally would .
It ’ s up to the FFL ’ s discretion , but they may want to consider waiting on a definitive response from the NICS before opting to proceed with a sale on any delayed transaction .
These are exceptional and uncertain times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ implementing temporary changes in order to safeguard their businesses and communities .
However , please note that when state offices are closed , it does not constitute a “ business day ” for purposes of calculating the “ three business days ” period before an FFL may transfer a firearm to a non-licensee as mandated by the Brady Act .
The NICS Section is working overtime to get through the backlog , and we appreciate their hard work and open communication .
NSSF will continue to communicate with NICS and our members to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possible during this period .

By Joe Bartozzi
As our nation continues to navigate its response to the COVID-19, we recognize the firearm industry, like many others, is being impacted. NSSF® is aware of delays within the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check (NICS) System. FFLs need to know that the FBI is on the job and working diligently to address the dramatic response and increase in background checks experienced over the past few days.
As we noted here on Monday, March 16, 2020, the NICS staff experienced more than a 300% increase compared to this same time period in 2019. States that process their own NICS checks are reporting similar spikes. Colorado’s Bureau of Investigation, for example, announced that checks last week were double the same week last year, and the increased volume has created a backlog of about 5,000 checks awaiting processing. Wait times have increased from between five and eight minutes to two days.
As we’ve seen in the past with other national events, our citizens often seek to exercise their Second Amendment rights during times of uncertainty. This is important to protect, as states and localities are considering measures that seek to shut non-essential businesses. There is nothing more essential than our Constitutional right to protect ourselves, our families and our property.
Delay Implications
According to NICS, there are delays in the system due to an astronomical volume of transactions over the last several days. While much of the NICS System is automated and yields an immediate “proceed” or “deny” determination, transactions that result in a delayed status require the work of NICS examiners to investigate whether the transaction should be approved. With daily volumes roughly double that of last year, the NICS team is unable to begin investigations on all delays within three business days, creating a backlog in the delayed checks.
Some states offices and agencies are considering options to protect the health and safety of their employees, which may include a reduction in staff or a temporary closure. For FFLs in one of these areas that receive a delayed response from the NICS, please note the Brady transfer date provided to you by the FBI could be extended beyond the normal three business days.
The three-business-day time frame does not begin until relevant state offices are open for business. Additionally, because of the dramatic increase in volume, it is important to recognize that FBI staff may not be able to begin their research on delayed transactions as they normally would. It’s up to the FFL’s discretion, but they may want to consider waiting on a definitive response from the NICS before opting to proceed with a sale on any delayed transaction.
Patience And Prudence
These are exceptional and uncertain times, and FFLs may wish to consider implementing temporary changes in order to safeguard their businesses and communities. However, please note that when state offices are closed, it does not constitute a “business day” for purposes of calculating the “three business days” period before an FFL may transfer a firearm to a non-licensee as mandated by the Brady Act.
The NICS Section is working overtime to get through the backlog, and we appreciate their hard work and open communication. NSSF will continue to communicate with NICS and our members to ensure operations move forward as smoothly as possible during this period.


thedailycaller--2020-03-19--The Importance Of Situational Awareness

The Importance Of Situational Awareness

Some years ago , one of our patrolmen was sitting in his squad , in a dark alley between two buildings , just watching the traffic on the busy street in front of him .
Across the street was a convenience store .
Our officer ’ s attention was drawn to a man standing in front of the store who seemed extremely nervous .
He was turning this way and that , watching the cars that passed by on the busy street .
Our officer later said that the guy just looked out of place .
Besides that , our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guy who was that nervous was either expecting trouble or was up to something .
Accordingly , our officer made a few preparations and was ready when the nervous guy ’ s two buddies came out from robbing the store .
Having been observant , the officer took the time to get his shotgun out and call for some backup .
The three crooks were arrested without a shot being fired .
If we work at improving our observation skills , we often see things that are out of place , or just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We really don ’ t need to know the reason why , in most cases , it is just enough to know that something doesn ’ t fit .
When that happens , we take the opportunity to either get away from the potential problem , or , not being able to leave , we get ready to deal with a worst-case scenario .
Being observant and beginning to take some sort of defensive action doesn ’ t mean that we are going to be rude to anyone .
Nor does it mean @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defensive firearm .
But we are going to be ready to do either , or both , should the need arise .
In the past , I ’ ve talked about the fact that our society pretty much allows the bad guy to make the first move and then the good guy has to play catch-up if he expects to survive the encounter .
Working at improving our observation skills gives us an early-warning system that somewhat evens the odds in our favor .
Whether walking or driving , we make an effort @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us .
The quicker we spot questionable action , the quicker we can take steps to avoid it — and that should be our first choice of action .
Obviously , we won ’ t do a very good job of this if we go around with our nose stuck in our cell phone .
Be alert and observe .
It saves lives .
Thanks to Shooting Illustrated for this post .
Click here to visit ShootingIllustrated.com .
Better yet : Click here to subscribe to SI ’ s free newsletter .
Click @ @ @ @ @ @ @

By Sheriff Jim Wilson, Shooting Illustrated
Some years ago, one of our patrolmen was sitting in his squad, in a dark alley between two buildings, just watching the traffic on the busy street in front of him. Across the street was a convenience store. Our officer’s attention was drawn to a man standing in front of the store who seemed extremely nervous. He was turning this way and that, watching the cars that passed by on the busy street.
Our officer later said that the guy just looked out of place. Besides that, our officer said that he figured that a guy who was that nervous was either expecting trouble or was up to something. Accordingly, our officer made a few preparations and was ready when the nervous guy’s two buddies came out from robbing the store. Having been observant, the officer took the time to get his shotgun out and call for some backup. The three crooks were arrested without a shot being fired.
If we work at improving our observation skills, we often see things that are out of place, or just don’t seem to fit. We really don’t need to know the reason why, in most cases, it is just enough to know that something doesn’t fit. When that happens, we take the opportunity to either get away from the potential problem, or, not being able to leave, we get ready to deal with a worst-case scenario.
Being observant and beginning to take some sort of defensive action doesn’t mean that we are going to be rude to anyone. Nor does it mean that we are going to pull our defensive firearm. But we are going to be ready to do either, or both, should the need arise.
In the past, I’ve talked about the fact that our society pretty much allows the bad guy to make the first move and then the good guy has to play catch-up if he expects to survive the encounter. Working at improving our observation skills gives us an early-warning system that somewhat evens the odds in our favor.
Whether walking or driving, we make an effort to observe what is going on around us. The quicker we spot questionable action, the quicker we can take steps to avoid it — and that should be our first choice of action. Obviously, we won’t do a very good job of this if we go around with our nose stuck in our cell phone.
Be alert and observe. It saves lives.
Thanks to Shooting Illustrated for this post. Click here to visit ShootingIllustrated.com.
Better yet: Click here to subscribe to SI’s free newsletter. Click here to follow SI on Facebook.


thedailycaller--2020-03-19--Zac Brown Band Says He’s Let 90 Percent Of Crew Go During Coronavirus Outbreak

Musician Zac Brown announced that he had to let go of 90 % of his crew due to the coronavirus in an Instagram video shared Wednesday .
Brown shared an Instagram video in which he discussed letting go his “ family ” and encouraged people to take COVID-19 seriously .
“ It ’ s a hard day today , ” Brown said .
“ For the last 15 years , my crew and who I carry with me out on the road to do my shows and do what we do — I ’ ve had to let go of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the people that I travel with and do my business with .
The people I high-five ‘ em way off to the side of the stage and the people who have done their jobs and done ‘ em well .
I hate having to make this call , but I can ’ t generate out there and I can ’ t tour because of the coronavirus and everyone ’ s safety.
” ( RELATED : Gal Gadot Shares Cringeworthy Video Of Celebrities Signing John Lennon ’ s ‘ Imagine ’ During Coronavirus Quarantine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with that , ” he continued .
“ But I ’ ve got this message that I want to say to the people that aren ’ t taking this seriously , and the people who are out partying and the people that are sitting on beaches and the people that don ’ t care if they get this virus or take it home to their grandparents and maybe kill their grandparents or complicate their lives .
The longer that America doesn ’ t take this seriously and doesn ’ t stay in and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that everyone ’ s gon na be out of jobs ; the longer that we ’ re gon na be pushed into this recession that we ’ re all about to enter into.
” Brown also criticized the government ’ s response to the outbreak and called on Americans to do what they know is right .
“ You know , we ’ re late to the game , ” Brown says , getting angrier .
“ I ’ m pretty ashamed of the way that our leadership ’ s handled all of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a lot of things .
We can ’ t rely on our government to tell people what they need to do .
You can read between the lines .
You can read all of the articles of everything happening everywhere around the world , and we ’ re less protected than a lot of those countries , because no one can tell us what to do .
We have to decide for ourselves as Americans that we have to look out for the future of all of our jobs and for the @ @ @ @ @ @

Musician Zac Brown announced that he had to let go of 90% of his crew due to the coronavirus in an Instagram video shared Wednesday.
Brown shared an Instagram video in which he discussed letting go his “family” and encouraged people to take COVID-19 seriously.
“It’s a hard day today,” Brown said. “For the last 15 years, my crew and who I carry with me out on the road to do my shows and do what we do — I’ve had to let go of about 90 percent of my family, the people that I travel with and do my business with. The people I high-five ‘em way off to the side of the stage and the people who have done their jobs and done ‘em well. I hate having to make this call, but I can’t generate out there and I can’t tour because of the coronavirus and everyone’s safety.” (RELATED: Gal Gadot Shares Cringeworthy Video Of Celebrities Signing John Lennon’s ‘Imagine’ During Coronavirus Quarantine)
“And I’m fine with that,” he continued. “But I’ve got this message that I want to say to the people that aren’t taking this seriously, and the people who are out partying and the people that are sitting on beaches and the people that don’t care if they get this virus or take it home to their grandparents and maybe kill their grandparents or complicate their lives. The longer that America doesn’t take this seriously and doesn’t stay in and try to contain this, the longer that everyone’s gonna be out of jobs; the longer that we’re gonna be pushed into this recession that we’re all about to enter into.”
Brown also criticized the government’s response to the outbreak and called on Americans to do what they know is right.
“You know, we’re late to the game,” Brown says, getting angrier. “I’m pretty ashamed of the way that our leadership’s handled all of this. I’m pretty ashamed of a lot of things. We can’t rely on our government to tell people what they need to do. You can read between the lines. You can read all of the articles of everything happening everywhere around the world, and we’re less protected than a lot of those countries, because no one can tell us what to do. We have to decide for ourselves as Americans that we have to look out for the future of all of our jobs and for the economy and for each other.


thedailycaller--2020-03-19--Cardi B Requests The Pentagon ‘Let A B*tch Know’ What Is Going On With The Coronavirus

Rapper Cardi B really wants someone at the Pentagon to “ let a bitch know ” what is going on with the widespread coronavirus .
Cardi B went live Tuesday on Instagram and seemed exasperated with the suggested guidelines from President Donald Trump to stay home .
“ I need to know what ’ s going on , ” Cardi B said in the Instagram live video that was shared on Twitter .
“ If you work at the fucking Pentagon , let a bitch know , ” she ranted .
“ Cuz I need to know .
I need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could tell but I ’ m losing my fucking mind .
I wan na get dressed up .
I want to put a fucking lace front on .
I want to put on my expensive outfits .
And I want to go fucking out .
And I can ’ t !
” ( RELATED : Gal Gadot Shares Cringeworthy Video Of Celebrities Singing John Lennon ’ s ‘ Imagine ’ During Coronavirus Quarantine ) You and everybody else also want to know what is going on regarding COVID-19 , Cardi .
However , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ride this out by working from home and staying in our houses no matter how badly we ’ d like to go have some fun .
The government has effectively shut down all the fun things you ’ d want to leave your house to do anyway , including bars and eating nice dinners at expensive restaurants .
In the meantime , we have Cardi B to give us videos that make us chuckle and remind us that celebrities … they ’ re just like us .

Rapper Cardi B really wants someone at the Pentagon to “let a bitch know” what is going on with the widespread coronavirus.
Cardi B went live Tuesday on Instagram and seemed exasperated with the suggested guidelines from President Donald Trump to stay home.
day 5 of quarantine pic.twitter.com/9CQ7R0v1Yd — jess ❥ (@cardiwonagrammy) March 18, 2020
“I need to know what’s going on,” Cardi B said in the Instagram live video that was shared on Twitter.
“If you work at the fucking Pentagon, let a bitch know,” she ranted. “Cuz I need to know. I need to fucking know. I know you could tell but I’m losing my fucking mind. I wanna get dressed up. I want to put a fucking lace front on. I want to put on my expensive outfits. And I want to go fucking out. And I can’t!” (RELATED: Gal Gadot Shares Cringeworthy Video Of Celebrities Singing John Lennon’s ‘Imagine’ During Coronavirus Quarantine)
You and everybody else also want to know what is going on regarding COVID-19, Cardi. However, seems like we really just have to ride this out by working from home and staying in our houses no matter how badly we’d like to go have some fun.
The government has effectively shut down all the fun things you’d want to leave your house to do anyway, including bars and eating nice dinners at expensive restaurants.
In the meantime, we have Cardi B to give us videos that make us chuckle and remind us that celebrities … they’re just like us.


thedailycaller--2020-03-19--Here’s How Long Clinical Trials For Possible Coronavirus Cure Will Take, According To Experts

Clinical trials to test a malaria drug for use on coronavirus patients could take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to complete , infectious disease experts said Thursday .
Scientists who study infectious diseases are cautiously optimistic about using chloroquine or its derivative , hydroxychloroquine , to treat or even cure coronavirus patients after lab studies and a clinical trial in France showed that the malaria medication was effective against the virus .
The Food and Drug Administration said Thursday that the agency “ has been working closely with other government agencies and academic centers ” to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ developed in the 1940s .
( RELATED : Clinical Trial Raises Hope That Malaria Drug Could Be Used As Coronavirus Cure ) Several clinical trials for chloroquine are being conducted across the globe , including a 1,500-patient study that the University of Minnesota commenced .
“ I ’ m excited about that because clinical trials are already beginning , ” Dr. William Schaffner , a professor of infectious diseases at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine , said Thursday on MSNBC about the prospects of using chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine to fight coronavirus .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a few months , ” but if the drugs prove effective they can be distributed “ very , very rapidly.
” He added : “ Anecdotes are provocative but we really need solid data.
” Dr. Peter Hotez , the dean for the National School of Tropical Medicine at the Baylor School of Medicine , said in an interview on CNN that clinical trials could take “ maybe a few weeks ” or “ a couple of months.
” Hotez told the Daily Caller News Foundation on Wednesday that he was “ enthusiastic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two drugs , but that more information is needed .
“ It has a lot of potential , though we ’ re not going on a lot of data yet , ” he said .
Government health agencies and medical researchers around the world are scrambling to develop new drugs or re-tool existing medicines to stave off coronavirus until a vaccine can be developed .
Experts in the field say that a vaccine is unlikely to be developed for at least 12 months , with some estimates that it could take up to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the using pre-existing drugs is the most readily available option , though it is not guaranteed to work .
Hotez has also advocated using antibodies taken from serum of recovered coronavirus patients either to treat people at high-risk of adverse outcomes from coronavirus .
At a press conference Thursday , President Donald Trump announced that he authorized the FDA to relax regulations that will speed up clinical trials for several anti-viral remedies to treat coronavirus .
He also said that the drugs would be made available “ almost immediately.
” Stephen Hahn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tempered Trump ’ s remarks , telling reporters at the same press conference that scientists still have to conduct clinical trials to see if chloroquine , hydroxychloroquine , and several other anti-viral medications are actually effective against coronavirus .
Since chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine are already approved to treat malaria and arthritis , they could be used to treat other conditions , including coronavirus , in an “ off label ” basis .
Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our original content , please contact licensing @ dailycallernewsfoundation.org .

Clinical trials to test a malaria drug for use on coronavirus patients could take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to complete, infectious disease experts said Thursday.
Scientists who study infectious diseases are cautiously optimistic about using chloroquine or its derivative, hydroxychloroquine, to treat or even cure coronavirus patients after lab studies and a clinical trial in France showed that the malaria medication was effective against the virus.
The Food and Drug Administration said Thursday that the agency “has been working closely with other government agencies and academic centers” to investigate using chloroquine, an anti-inflammatory drug developed in the 1940s. (RELATED: Clinical Trial Raises Hope That Malaria Drug Could Be Used As Coronavirus Cure)
Several clinical trials for chloroquine are being conducted across the globe, including a 1,500-patient study that the University of Minnesota commenced.
“I’m excited about that because clinical trials are already beginning,” Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, said Thursday on MSNBC about the prospects of using chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine to fight coronavirus.
Schaffner said clinical trials could “take a few months,” but if the drugs prove effective they can be distributed “very, very rapidly.”
He added: “Anecdotes are provocative but we really need solid data.”
WATCH:
Dr. Peter Hotez, the dean for the National School of Tropical Medicine at the Baylor School of Medicine, said in an interview on CNN that clinical trials could take “maybe a few weeks” or “a couple of months.”
Hotez told the Daily Caller News Foundation on Wednesday that he was “enthusiastic” about early research on using the two drugs, but that more information is needed.
“It has a lot of potential, though we’re not going on a lot of data yet,” he said.
WATCH:
Government health agencies and medical researchers around the world are scrambling to develop new drugs or re-tool existing medicines to stave off coronavirus until a vaccine can be developed. Experts in the field say that a vaccine is unlikely to be developed for at least 12 months, with some estimates that it could take up to two years.
Hotez said on CNN that using pre-existing drugs is the most readily available option, though it is not guaranteed to work. Hotez has also advocated using antibodies taken from serum of recovered coronavirus patients either to treat people at high-risk of adverse outcomes from coronavirus.
At a press conference Thursday, President Donald Trump announced that he authorized the FDA to relax regulations that will speed up clinical trials for several anti-viral remedies to treat coronavirus. He also said that the drugs would be made available “almost immediately.”
Stephen Hahn, the commissioner of the FDA, tempered Trump’s remarks, telling reporters at the same press conference that scientists still have to conduct clinical trials to see if chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, and several other anti-viral medications are actually effective against coronavirus.
Since chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine are already approved to treat malaria and arthritis, they could be used to treat other conditions, including coronavirus, in an “off label” basis.
All content created by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent and nonpartisan newswire service, is available without charge to any legitimate news publisher that can provide a large audience. All republished articles must include our logo, our reporter’s byline and their DCNF affiliation. For any questions about our guidelines or partnering with us, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.


thedailycaller--2020-03-19--McConnell Introduces Text For Phase Three Coronavirus Stimulus Bill

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell introduced the text Thursday for a phase three coronavirus bill as members on both sides are reportedly still divided on many key issues .
The bill will give $ 1,200 checks to every person , couples would receive $ 2,400 .
That $ 1,200 check will go to Americans making less than $ 75,000 annually .
Each child will receive $ 500 .
The amount is reduced by $ 5 for every $ 100 a person earns over $ 75,000 .
If you make above $ 99,000 , you will not get any money .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ specific provisions for disabled veterans , low-income seniors , and individuals with no income tax liability with at least $ 2,500 in qualifying income , according to The Senate Finance Committee .
There will also be a much smaller benefit , of $ 600 , for millions without federal tax liability .
A task force reportedly gave the idea to Republicans during their caucus lunch .
Republican South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham reportedly opposes direct payments .
However , Graham said he is “ willing to pay 75 percent of people ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us through , ” adding , “ this ought to be enough money to get us through the next six to eight weeks.
” The Senate passed a bill Wednesday to help provide money to businesses and citizens suffering from the deadly coronavirus pandemic .
The Senate overwhelmingly approved of the coronavirus aid package that provides paid sick leave , and expands unemployment assistance and resources for testing .
Ninety congressmen voted for the bill and 8 voted against it .
( RELATED : Senate Passes Coronavirus Aid Package ) The vote comes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reworked coronavirus bill Monday .
The House approved the plan via unanimous consent .
The House then sent the original coronavirus package plus a retooled version to the Senate .
The Senate then passed three separate bills which will now be sent to President Donald Trump .
( RELATED : House Passes Updated Coronavirus Bill ) Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said Tuesday he decided to vote on the House bills as soon as possible and not blend the House bills with the upcoming Senate legislation .
He also added that the Senate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next coronavirus bill .
Trump signed an $ 8.3 billion funding bill Friday to help fight coronavirus .
That bill gives more than $ 3 billion for the research and development of vaccines .
There is also $ 800 million for research for treatments .
It also includes $ 2 billion for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) and $ 61 million to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ( FDA ) , according to Yahoo Finance .
( RELATED : Senate Passes Coronavirus Spending Bill ) Trump held @ @ @ @ @ @ @ February discussing how the U.S. will deal with the disease and put Vice President Mike Pence in charge of the task force .
( RELATED : President Trump Appoints Vice President Pence To Head Coronavirus Task Force )

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell introduced the text Thursday for a phase three coronavirus bill as members on both sides are reportedly still divided on many key issues.
The bill will give $1,200 checks to every person, couples would receive $2,400. That $1,200 check will go to Americans making less than $75,000 annually. Each child will receive $500. The amount is reduced by $5 for every $100 a person earns over $75,000. If you make above $99,000, you will not get any money.
The GOP’s bill also includes specific provisions for disabled veterans, low-income seniors, and individuals with no income tax liability with at least $2,500 in qualifying income, according to The Senate Finance Committee. There will also be a much smaller benefit, of $600, for millions without federal tax liability.
A task force reportedly gave the idea to Republicans during their caucus lunch. Republican South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham reportedly opposes direct payments. However, Graham said he is “willing to pay 75 percent of people’s income up to $80,000 to get us through,” adding, “this ought to be enough money to get us through the next six to eight weeks.”
The Senate passed a bill Wednesday to help provide money to businesses and citizens suffering from the deadly coronavirus pandemic. The Senate overwhelmingly approved of the coronavirus aid package that provides paid sick leave, and expands unemployment assistance and resources for testing. Ninety congressmen voted for the bill and 8 voted against it. (RELATED: Senate Passes Coronavirus Aid Package)
The vote comes after the House of Representatives passed a reworked coronavirus bill Monday. The House approved the plan via unanimous consent. The House then sent the original coronavirus package plus a retooled version to the Senate. The Senate then passed three separate bills which will now be sent to President Donald Trump. (RELATED: House Passes Updated Coronavirus Bill)
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said Tuesday he decided to vote on the House bills as soon as possible and not blend the House bills with the upcoming Senate legislation. He also added that the Senate will not leave until they pass the next coronavirus bill.
Trump signed an $8.3 billion funding bill Friday to help fight coronavirus. That bill gives more than $3 billion for the research and development of vaccines. There is also $800 million for research for treatments. It also includes $2 billion for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and $61 million to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), according to Yahoo Finance. (RELATED: Senate Passes Coronavirus Spending Bill)
Trump held a press conference at the end of February discussing how the U.S. will deal with the disease and put Vice President Mike Pence in charge of the task force. (RELATED: President Trump Appoints Vice President Pence To Head Coronavirus Task Force)
The World Health Organization declared the coronavirus outbreak a global pandemic March 11.