thehuffingtonpost--2020-03-21--Trump Touts 'Game-Changing' Drug Cocktail For Coronavirus Linked To Fatal Arrhythmia

Concerned physicians responded to Trump ’ s tweet crowing about what could be “ one of the biggest game-changers in the history of medicine ” with warnings about the serious side effects — and urgent pleas not to try to obtain the drugs without a medical prescription in consultation with a doctor .
HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE & AZITHROMYCIN , taken together , have a real chance to be one of the biggest game changers in the history of medicine .
The FDA has moved mountains - Thank You !
Hopefully they will BOTH ( H works better with A , International Journal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Donald J. Trump ( @ realDonaldTrump ) March 21 , 2020 Hydroxychloroquine , sold under the brand name Plaquenil , and the antibiotic Azithromycin in combination have shown some early promise against COVID-19 .
But the drugs together have not been approved as safe or effective against the disease by the federal Food and Drug Administration .
Any use must take into consideration a potentially deadly side effect .
Trump referred to the drugs at his Saturday press briefing and asked : “ What do we have to lose ?
I feel very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left the briefing , his top science adviser Dr. Anthony Fauci of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases was asked if he had “ any sense ” of the drug cocktail the president referred to , and whether Trump ’ s “ 74-and-a-half million Twitter followers should be taking medical advice from him or from someone else.
” Fauci responded that there may be positive “ anecdotal reports ” — informally observed individual cases — about the drugs , but they haven ’ t yet been proven to work , or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really want to definitively know if something works , you got to do the kind of trial that [ gives you ] the good information , ” he said .
“ The president is talking about hope for people , ” not science , he noted .
Please do n't take hydroxychloroquine ( Plaquenil ) plus Azithromycin for # COVID19 UNLESS your doctor prescribes it .
Both drugs affect the QT interval of your heart and can lead to arrhythmias and sudden death , especially if you are taking other meds or have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Salvana ( @ EdselSalvana ) March 21 , 2020 🛑Hydroxychloroquine ( plaquenil ) can prolong the QT interval ( heart rhythm ) and can cause a FATAL arrhythmia .
Azithromycin can also prolong the QT interval , so use of these 2 drugs together should ONLY be done under the supervision of a doctor .
pic.twitter.com/ghtYMmFjBA — Dr. Dena Grayson ( @ DrDenaGrayson ) March 21 , 2020 Infectious disease expert Dr. Matt McCarthy , a physician at Manhattan ’ s New York-Presbyterian Hospital treating people suffering from COVID-19 , tweeted Friday about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a new study ( treating 20 patients ) showed the drugs decreased the presence of the coronavirus in the blood of those tested .
But he also warned about the possibility of fatal arrhythmia .
“ We don ’ t really know ” if the drugs will cure or kill someone , he tweeted .
Trump at Thursday ’ s briefing first touted the anti-malarial drug Chloroquine as having “ tremendous promise ” against the coronavirus .
He falsely suggested it had been approved for use against COVID-19 .
“ It ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from many , many months to immediate , ” Trump said .
But FDA Commissioner Stephen Hahn immediately contradicted Trump , telling reporters : “ That ’ s a drug that the president has directed us to take a closer look at as to whether an expanded use approach ... We want to do that in the setting of a clinical trial , a large pragmatic clinical trial.
” Trump responded that he had a “ good feeling ” about the drug .
“ It ’ s been around for a long time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t go as planned it ’ s not going to kill anybody , ” Trump said .
“ Please don ’ t panic , ” a senior health official warned Nigerians a text message , Bloomberg reported Saturday .
“ Chloroquine is still in a testing phase in combination with other medication and not yet verified as a preventive , treatment or curative option.
” # FactsNotFear @ WHO has NOT approved the use of chloroquine for # COVID19 management .
Scientists are working hard to confirm the safety of several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NOT engage in self-medication .
This will cause harm and can lead to death.
# COVID19Nigeria pic.twitter.com/K6kljq0VtW — NCDC ( @ NCDCgov ) March 20 , 2020

President Donald Trump touted a two-drug cocktail Saturday to battle the coronavirus. But the medicines together have been linked to cardiac arrhythmia and sudden death.
Concerned physicians responded to Trump’s tweet crowing about what could be “one of the biggest game-changers in the history of medicine” with warnings about the serious side effects — and urgent pleas not to try to obtain the drugs without a medical prescription in consultation with a doctor.
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HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE & AZITHROMYCIN, taken together, have a real chance to be one of the biggest game changers in the history of medicine. The FDA has moved mountains - Thank You! Hopefully they will BOTH (H works better with A, International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents)..... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 21, 2020
Hydroxychloroquine, sold under the brand name Plaquenil, and the antibiotic Azithromycin in combination have shown some early promise against COVID-19. But the drugs together have not been approved as safe or effective against the disease by the federal Food and Drug Administration. Any use must take into consideration a potentially deadly side effect.
Trump referred to the drugs at his Saturday press briefing and asked: “What do we have to lose? I feel very good about it.”
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After the president left the briefing, his top science adviser, Dr. Anthony Fauci of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, was asked if he had “any sense” of the drug cocktail the president referred to, and whether Trump’s “74-and-a-half million Twitter followers should be taking medical advice from him or from someone else.”
Fauci responded that there may be positive “anecdotal reports” — informally observed individual cases — about the drugs, but they haven’t yet been proven to work, or to be safe. “If you really want to definitively know if something works, you got to do the kind of trial that [gives you] the good information,” he said. “The president is talking about hope for people,” not science, he noted.
Please don't take hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) plus Azithromycin for #COVID19 UNLESS your doctor prescribes it. Both drugs affect the QT interval of your heart and can lead to arrhythmias and sudden death, especially if you are taking other meds or have a heart condition. — Dr. Edsel Salvana (@EdselSalvana) March 21, 2020
🛑Hydroxychloroquine (plaquenil) can prolong the QT interval (heart rhythm) and can cause a FATAL arrhythmia. Azithromycin can also prolong the QT interval, so use of these 2 drugs together should ONLY be done under the supervision of a doctor. pic.twitter.com/ghtYMmFjBA — Dr. Dena Grayson (@DrDenaGrayson) March 21, 2020
The combination of hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin to treat the coronavirus has not been proven safe and effective through large scale clinical trials. There is only anecdotal evidence from case reports in countries overseas. Promising them as miracle drugs gives false hope. — Eugene Gu, MD (@eugenegu) March 21, 2020
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Taking Hydroxychloroquine & Azithromycin together causes a drug interaction that increases risk of irregular heartbeat, which may be life-threatening. No one should take these drugs together without consulting a doctor.https://t.co/r5tQ2cFOiDhttps://t.co/ielNQBIIQl https://t.co/S4jy4gbpIg — Ted Lieu (@tedlieu) March 21, 2020
Infectious disease expert Dr. Matt McCarthy, a physician at Manhattan’s New York-Presbyterian Hospital treating people suffering from COVID-19, tweeted Friday about the drug combination. He noted that a new study (treating 20 patients) showed the drugs decreased the presence of the coronavirus in the blood of those tested. But he also warned about the possibility of fatal arrhythmia. “We don’t really know” if the drugs will cure or kill someone, he tweeted.
Both plaquenil & azithromycin can potentially cause a cardiac disturbance called prolonged QTc. Taken together, these drugs might cause a fatal arrhythmia (torsades de pointes). Or they might help clear virus from the blood. We don't really know. Strong opinions on both sides. — Matt McCarthy (@DrMattMcCarthy) March 20, 2020
Trump at Thursday’s briefing first touted the anti-malarial drug chloroquine as having “tremendous promise” against the coronavirus. He falsely suggested it had been approved for use against COVID-19. “It’s been approved ... they took it down from many, many months to immediate,” Trump said.
But FDA Commissioner Stephen Hahn immediately contradicted Trump, telling reporters: “That’s a drug that the president has directed us to take a closer look at as to whether an expanded use approach. ... We want to do that in the setting of a clinical trial, a large pragmatic clinical trial.”
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Trump responded that he had a “good feeling” about the drug. “It’s been around for a long time, so we know that if things don’t go as planned it’s not going to kill anybody,” Trump said.
Officials in Nigeria reported two chloroquine poisonings that resulted in hospitalizations after Trump pushed the drug, Bloomberg noted.
“Please don’t panic,” a senior health official warned Nigerians via a text message, Bloomberg reported Saturday. “Chloroquine is still in a testing phase in combination with other medication and not yet verified as a preventive, treatment or curative option.”
#FactsNotFear@WHO has NOT approved the use of chloroquine for #COVID19 management. Scientists are working hard to confirm the safety of several drugs for this disease.
Please DO NOT engage in self-medication. This will cause harm and can lead to death.#COVID19Nigeria pic.twitter.com/K6kljq0VtW — NCDC (@NCDCgov) March 20, 2020
A study by the Wuhan Institute of Virology found that people could die with just twice the recommended daily dosage of chloroquine, Bloomberg reported.
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thehuffingtonpost--2020-03-21--White House Won't Say When More Masks Will Be Available To Health Care Workers

The White House ’ s coronavirus task force could not provide a solid answer about when health care workers across the country can expect to receive more protective masks , of which there is a nationwide shortage .
During a press conference on Saturday , President Donald Trump appeared defensive over his response to the viral outbreak , baselessly blaming the previous administration for supply shortages and accusing health care workers of throwing away masks , encouraging them to reuse and “ sanitize ” masks instead .
Other officials also deflected repeated questions by reporters on when supplies would reach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , noting that doctors and nurses across the U.S. are complaining of dangerously low reserves of personal protective equipment and are being forced to reuse what they have now .
Vice President Mike Pence said that the administration had ordered “ hundreds of millions ” of N95 masks , which filter 95 % of airborne particles .
He also said that the Federal Emergency Management Agency would help distribute them to states that need them , though he did not offer further details of when or where that would happen .
Gaynor said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now , ” but didn ’ t explain further even when Trump asked when the masks would be getting there .
He also asked the public to help “ take a little burden ” off the government .
“ This is a shared responsibility , ” Gaynor said .
“ We ’ re asking locals and states to do your share locally , to try and take a little burden off of us and we ’ ll prioritize those scarce resources.
” Giroir said that the Department of Health and Human Services was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daily basis as they are needed and requested through the FEMA system.
” “ Why aren ’ t we sanitizing masks ?
” Trump asked .
“ You look at the masks , I ’ ve looked at all the different masks .
Some don ’ t lend themselves to doing that but many do .
... We have very good liquids for doing this , sanitizing the masks , and that ’ s something they ’ re starting to do more and more of.
” “ To be clear , we are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re reusing them until they physically can ’ t be used anymore because they ’ re torn or dirty or wet , ” she said Saturday .
Ranney said that she was unaware of any reliable methods of sanitizing masks , though she does know of experimental methods that are still in testing phases .
It is still unclear whether those methods could compromise the durability of the mask and effectively disinfect them .
“ I would be thrilled to have reliable methods for sanitizing masks .
I , as a frontline healthcare @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any such methods , ” she said .
“ There may be something I don ’ t know about .
I would be thrilled if his claim were true , but it ’ s nothing I am familiar with .
”

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The White House’s coronavirus task force could not provide a solid answer about when health care workers across the country can expect to receive more protective masks, of which there is a nationwide shortage.
During a press conference on Saturday, President Donald Trump appeared defensive over his response to the viral outbreak, baselessly blaming the previous administration for supply shortages and accusing health care workers of throwing away masks, encouraging them to reuse and “sanitize” masks instead.
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Other officials also deflected repeated questions by reporters on when supplies would reach the health care workers who need them, noting that doctors and nurses across the U.S. are complaining of dangerously low reserves of personal protective equipment and are being forced to reuse what they have now.
FEMA administrator Peter Gaynor is so evasive in his statements about when surgical masks will be distributed by the federal government that even Trump calls him on it pic.twitter.com/CJj0oqImhG — Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) March 21, 2020
Vice President Mike Pence said that the administration had ordered “hundreds of millions” of N95 masks, which filter 95% of airborne particles. He also said that the Federal Emergency Management Agency would help distribute them to states that need them, though he did not offer further details of when or where that would happen.
When a reporter pushed Pence again on the matter, he deferred to FEMA administrator Pete Gaynor.
Gaynor said that the masks are “out there now,” but didn’t explain further even when Trump asked when the masks would be getting there. He also asked the public to help “take a little burden” off the government.
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“This is a shared responsibility,” Gaynor said. “We’re asking locals and states to do your share locally, to try and take a little burden off of us and we’ll prioritize those scarce resources.”
Some states are receiving more equipment through a reserve of medical supplies saved for national emergencies known as the Strategic National Stockpile, according to Admiral Brett Giroir, the assistant secretary for health.
Giroir said that the Department of Health and Human Services was sending out that stockpile “on a daily basis as they are needed and requested through the FEMA system.”
Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, followed that up by noting there was still a national shortage of masks and supplies.
“It is happening. You’re not making things up,” he told reporters. “I know that because I’m experiencing it myself.”
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Dr. Fauci tells CNN correspondent "You're not making things up" after Trump denies there's a supply shortage. pic.twitter.com/n42DzfKqZM — TPM Livewire (@TPMLiveWire) March 21, 2020
Trump then took the podium to complain about health care workers, whom he accused of irresponsibly throwing masks away.
“Why aren’t we sanitizing masks?” Trump asked. “You look at the masks, I’ve looked at all the different masks. Some don’t lend themselves to doing that but many do. ... We have very good liquids for doing this, sanitizing the masks, and that’s something they’re starting to do more and more of.”
In response to Trump’s claim made at the press conference, Dr. Megan Ranney, a practicing emergency physician and Brown University professor, told HuffPost that she does not believe health care professionals are throwing masks away.
“To be clear, we are not throwing them away. We’re reusing them until they physically can’t be used anymore because they’re torn or dirty or wet,” she said Saturday.
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Doctors and nurses in Hawaii and Los Angeles have also told HuffPost that they have been directed to reuse masks to preserve supplies.
Ranney said that she was unaware of any reliable methods of sanitizing masks, though she does know of experimental methods that are still in testing phases. It is still unclear whether those methods could compromise the durability of the mask and effectively disinfect them.
“I would be thrilled to have reliable methods for sanitizing masks. I, as a frontline healthcare provider, am not currently familiar of any such methods,” she said. “There may be something I don’t know about. I would be thrilled if his claim were true, but it’s nothing I am familiar with.”
Trump tries to normalize reusing masks in hospitals pic.twitter.com/jhPaDQdU25 — Brandon Wall (@Walldo) March 21, 2020
Trump also blamed the previous administration for the current shortage of tests and supplies.
When a reporter pushed Giroir on whether masks being held in the strategic national stockpile were being deployed to health care workers and how many were left, Trump interjected.
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“We’re trying to understand if the things we have been told ... are happening and getting into the hands of health care providers,” the reporter explained to Giroir.
“You understand, you understand. You’re an intelligent woman,” Trump replied, before blaming the shortage of tests on the Obama administration. (In the final days of Obama’s presidency, his aides specifically briefed the Trump transition team on how to approach a hypothetical global pandemic, Politico reported on Monday.)
“We inherited an obsolete broken system,” the president said. “When you hear the number of tests that we will be providing, and are now, it’s incredible. And I’ve heard a lot of governors saying the same thing.”
Then Trump called Pence to the microphone and left the stage.


thehuffingtonpost--2020-03-22--Trump Administration Considering Opening Obamacare Enrollment Amid Pandemic

The Trump administration is considering opening up a special enrollment period for the Affordable Care Act to help uninsured Americans during the coronavirus crisis , Politico and The Wall Street Journal reported Saturday .
At least nine states that run their own health insurance exchanges have already reopened Obamacare enrollment to uninsured residents so they can obtain coverage .
But most states depend on the insurance marketplace run by the federal government .
Open enrollment for states that use the federal exchange ended on Dec. 15 .
But a spokeswoman for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services ( CMS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ insurance marketplace , HealthCare.gov , said officials are now considering a new enrollment period .
“ CMS is evaluating offering a Special Enrollment Period specifically designated for COVID-19 , ” she told the Journal .
“ We will continue to work with states and health plans around the country to assess what additional actions are necessary to ensure the American people have coverage for and access to the services they need during this time.
” The representative also encouraged people to check the HealthCare.gov site now to determine if they may already be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in circumstances , such as losing a job .
About 30 million people are currently uninsured , and that number is likely to grow significantly as businesses shut down .
Insurance lobby organizations America ’ s Health Insurance Plans and the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association urged lawmakers in a letter Thursday to include insurance plan subsidies in upcoming coronavirus stimulus packages .
It also encouraged a “ one-time special enrollment period for the individual market — regardless of an individual ’ s current health status or whether they have coverage today.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk posed by COVID-19 , it is more important than ever for people to have health coverage .
This will give people the opportunity to get the security and peace of mind that health care coverage provides.
” Ironically , GOP officials in 20 states — with the backing of Donald Trump — are currently fighting in court to kill Obamacare .
The Supreme Court will hear the case , likely next term .

The Trump administration is considering opening up a special enrollment period for the Affordable Care Act to help uninsured Americans during the coronavirus crisis, Politico and The Wall Street Journal reported Saturday.
At least nine states that run their own health insurance exchanges have already reopened Obamacare enrollment to uninsured residents so they can obtain coverage.
But most states depend on the insurance marketplace run by the federal government. Open enrollment for states that use the federal exchange ended on Dec. 15. But a spokeswoman for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), which runs the Trump administration insurance marketplace, HealthCare.gov, said officials are now considering a new enrollment period.
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“CMS is evaluating offering a Special Enrollment Period specifically designated for COVID-19,” she told the Journal. “We will continue to work with states and health plans around the country to assess what additional actions are necessary to ensure the American people have coverage for and access to the services they need during this time.”
The representative also encouraged people to check the HealthCare.gov site now to determine if they may already be able to enroll because of a change in circumstances, such as losing a job.
About 30 million people are currently uninsured, and that number is likely to grow significantly as businesses shut down.
Insurance lobby organizations America’s Health Insurance Plans and the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association urged lawmakers in a letter Thursday to include insurance plan subsidies in upcoming coronavirus stimulus packages. It also encouraged a “one-time special enrollment period for the individual market — regardless of an individual’s current health status or whether they have coverage today.”
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The letter added: “Given the risk posed by COVID-19, it is more important than ever for people to have health coverage. This will give people the opportunity to get the security and peace of mind that health care coverage provides.”


thehuffingtonpost--2020-03-21--Rep. Mark DeSaulnier In Critical Condition After Rib Fracture Leads To Pneumonia

Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call via Getty Images Rep. Mark DeSaulnier is in critical condition after a fractured rib triggered pneumonia @ @ @ @ @ .
Rep. Mark DeSaulnier ( D-Calif. ) is in critical condition eight days after falling @ @ @ @ @ his rib , his office announced Saturday night .
DeSaulnier developed pneumonia after the “ @ @ @ @ @ is being treated at the hospital .
The injury occurred on Friday , March 13 @ @ @ @ @ in serious but stable condition ; his health has since deteriorated .
“ Unfortunately , @ @ @ @ @ has deteriorated and he is in critical condition , ” said a statement released by @ @ @ @ @ Betsy Arnold Marr .
“ The doctors are doing everything they can to care for @ @ @ @ @ tested for COVID-19 and the results were negative .
The congressman represents California ’ s @ @ @ @ @ wider San Francisco Bay Area .
He serves on four House committees , including the @ @ @ @ @ , Transportation and Infrastructure , and Education and Labor panels .

Rep. Mark DeSaulnier is in critical condition after a fractured rib triggered pneumonia, according to his office. Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call via Getty Images
Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (D-Calif.) is in critical condition eight days after falling during a run and fracturing his rib, his office announced Saturday night.
DeSaulnier developed pneumonia after the “traumatic rib fracture” and is being treated at the hospital. The injury occurred on Friday, March 13. Initially, DeSaulnier was in serious but stable condition; his health has since deteriorated.
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“Unfortunately, Congressman DeSaulnier’s condition has deteriorated and he is in critical condition,” said a statement released by his chief of staff, Betsy Arnold Marr. “The doctors are doing everything they can to care for the Congressman.”
DeSaulnier was tested for COVID-19 and the results were negative.
The congressman represents California’s 11th Congressional District in the wider San Francisco Bay Area.
He serves on four House committees, including the Rules, Oversight and Reform, Transportation and Infrastructure, and Education and Labor panels.


thehuffingtonpost--2020-03-22--As Corporations Plead For Taxpayer Bailouts, Goldman Sachs Gives CEO 20% Pay Bounce

Goldman Sachs gave CEO David Solomon a 20 % raise to a head-spinning $ 27.5 million in assets and cash for his work last year , the company revealed .
The news comes as the Trump administration weighs massive industry bailouts amid the coronavirus crisis — and triggers memories of the Wall Street bailout , which included $ 10 billion for Goldman Sachs .
Solomon ’ s compensation for 2019 includes $ 2 million in salary , more than $ 15 million in stock and a $ 7.7 million cash bonus , the company reported Friday .
Former company CEO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 41 million in compensation in 2008 .
( Blackfein said last month that he might vote for Donald Trump if Sen. Bernie Sanders ( I-Vt. ) became the Democratic presidential nominee . )
Solomon is the second-highest paid CEO in company history .
Bonuses for company employees shrank during the same period , and Goldman Sachs ’ profits fell to a four-year low , reports the Wall Street Journal .
The company also set aside $ 1.1 billion for a hoped-for settlement with U.S. regulators over the role it played in a Malaysian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10 billion from U.S. taxpayers as part of the $ 700 billion bailout of the banking industry in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis — created by banks and investment companies .
Americans are still stewed about that , according to Dennis Kelleher , the president of the nonprofit Better Markets , which advocates for more regulation in the finance industry .
“ There is still a strong view in this country that in 2008 , Wall Street got bailed out and Main Street got the bill , ” he told The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now that any business getting federal financial help for the coronavirus crisis include restrictions on stock buybacks and executive compensation — and required provisions for worker support .

Goldman Sachs gave CEO David Solomon a 20% raise to a head-spinning $27.5 million in assets and cash for his work last year, the company revealed.
The news comes as the Trump administration weighs massive industry bailouts amid the coronavirus crisis — and triggers memories of the Wall Street bailout, which included $10 billion for Goldman Sachs.
Solomon’s compensation for 2019 includes $2 million in salary, more than $15 million in stock and a $7.7 million cash bonus, the company reported Friday.
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Former company CEO Lloyd Blankfein took in a record $41 million in compensation in 2008. (Blankfein said last month that he might vote for Donald Trump if Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) became the Democratic presidential nominee.) Solomon is the second-highest-paid CEO in company history.
Bonuses for company employees shrank during the same period, and Goldman Sachs’ profits fell to a four-year low, reports The Wall Street Journal. The company also set aside $1.1 billion for a hoped-for settlement with U.S. regulators over the role it played in a Malaysian corruption scandal.
Goldman Sachs collected $10 billion from U.S. taxpayers as part of the $700 billion bailout of the banking industry in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis — created by banks and investment companies.
Americans are still stewed about that, according to Dennis Kelleher, the president of the nonprofit Better Markets, which advocates for more regulation in the finance industry. “There is still a strong view in this country that in 2008, Wall Street got bailed out and Main Street got the bill,” he told The New York Times.
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Democrats are insisting now that any business getting federal financial help for the coronavirus crisis include restrictions on stock buybacks and executive compensation — and required provisions for worker support.
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) warned: “We’re not doing no-strings-attached bailouts that enrich shareholders or pay CEO bonuses. Period.”


thehuffingtonpost--2020-03-22--Trump Wrote To Kim Jong Un Offering Coronavirus Help, Says North Korea

KCNA KCNA / Reuters North Korean leader Kim Jong Un smiles after witnessing the firing of what 's believed to be two short-range ballistic missiles on Saturday .
The White House confirmed that the president sent a letter , but would not reveal the contents .
But an unnamed senior administration official told The New York Times and Agence France Presse that the letter was “ consistent ” with Trump ’ s “ efforts to engage global leaders during the ongoing pandemic.
” North Korean policy aide Kim Yo Jong , who is Kim ’ s younger sister , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agency : “ We regard it as a good judgment and proper action for the U.S. president to make efforts to keep the good relations he had with our Chairman.
” She said that Trump reaffirmed his intention to promote good relations between the nations , and “ expressed his intent to render cooperation in the anti-epidemic work.
” The president said he was “ impressed by the efforts made by the Chairman to defend his people from the serious threat of the epidemic , ” the statement added .
Kim had “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump again and appreciated the personal letter , ” said his sister .
But his sister suggested that the leaders ’ personal relationship may not be sufficient to promote better ties between the nation .
Talks between the nations have stalled over the past year after a failed summit in Vietnam last February to address the country ’ s nuclear ambitions .
Kim has since pledged to jumpstart the weapons program , saying in January that the North was no longer bound by a moratorium on testing .
On Saturday Kim witnessed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ short-range ballistic missiles from the east coast into the sea .
Pyongang has insisted there have been no coronavirus cases in the nation .
But international officials suspect North Korea may be hiding the truth , and fear a major outbreak in a nation with a struggling public health system .
U.S. critics would likely prefer Trump focus on helping the U.S. His administration has come under fire for serious delays rolling out COVID-19 testing and failing to adequately address a critical supply shortage of ventilators for patients and protective gear , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un smiles after witnessing the firing of what was believed to be two short-range ballistic missiles on Saturday. KCNA KCNA/Reuters
The White House confirmed that the president sent a letter, but would not reveal its contents.
But an unnamed senior administration official told The New York Times and Agence France Presse that the letter was “consistent” with Trump’s “efforts to engage global leaders during the ongoing pandemic.”
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North Korean policy aide Kim Yo Jong, who is Kim’s younger sister, said in a statement carried by the news agency: “We regard it as a good judgment and proper action for the U.S. president to make efforts to keep the good relations he had with our Chairman.”
She said that Trump reaffirmed his intention to promote good relations between the nations, and “expressed his intent to render cooperation in the anti-epidemic work.” The president said he was “impressed by the efforts made by the Chairman to defend his people from the serious threat of the epidemic,” the statement added.
Kim had “mentioned his special personal relations with President Trump again and appreciated the personal letter,” said his sister. But his sister suggested that the leaders’ personal relationship may not be sufficient to promote better ties between the nations.
Talks between the nations have stalled over the past year after a failed summit in Vietnam last February to address the country’s nuclear ambitions. Kim has since pledged to jump-start the weapons program, saying in January that North Korea was no longer bound by a moratorium on testing.
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On Saturday, Kim witnessed the launch of what appeared to be two short-range ballistic missiles from the country’s east coast into the sea.
Pyongyang has insisted there have been no coronavirus cases in the nation. But international officials suspect North Korea may be hiding the truth, and fear a major outbreak in a nation with a struggling public health system.


thehuffingtonpost--2020-03-22--As Crisis Deepens, Congressional Rescue Deal Teeters

With a population on edge and shell-shocked financial markets poised for the new work week , all sides were hoping for an agreement that would provide some relief against health and economic crises that are likely to stretch for several months .
Trump urged Congress to get a deal done and , during the Sunday briefing , responded to criticism that his administration was sluggish to respond .
He cited his cooperation with the three states hardest hit — New York , Washington and California — and invoked a measure to give governors flexibility in calling up the national guard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government covers the bill .
But even as Trump stressed federal-local partnerships , some governors , including Republican Greg Abbott of Texas , expressed unhappiness with Washington ’ s response .
The president himself took a swipe hours earlier at Gov .
J .
B. Pritzker , D-Ill. , saying that he and “ a very small group of certain other Governors , together with Fake News ” should not be “ blaming the Federal Government for their own shortcomings.
” This came as the first senator , Republican Rand Paul of Kentucky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus .
Paul , who is a doctor and close ally of the president , said in a tweet he was not showing symptoms and was in quarantine .
In recent days , Trump invoked the Defense Protection Act , a rarely used , decades-old authority that can be used to compel the private sector to manufacture needed medical supplies like masks and ventilators .
Officials said Sunday that it would be used voluntarily and businesses would not be compelled to act .
The president tweeted Sunday that automakers General Motors and Tesla @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to make ventilators and other products .
But no automaker is anywhere close to making medical gear such as ventilators and remain months away , if not longer .
Nor do the car companies need the president ’ s permission to move forward .
Two days after he lashed out at a reporter who asked about his message to frightened Americans , Trump said , `` For those worried and afraid , please know as long as I am your president , you can feel confident that you have a leader who will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers and businesses will get assistance to help cover payrolls for the next 10 weeks ; unemployment insurance ; and a one-time “ bridge payment ” of about $ 3,000 for a family of four .
Hospitals , he said , will get approximately $ 110 billion for the expected influx of sick patients .
“ We ’ re not here to create a slush fund for Donald Trump and his family , or a slush fund for the Treasury Department to be able to hand out to their friends , ” said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ re here to help workers , we ’ re here to help hospitals .
”

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WASHINGTON (AP) — Top-level negotiations between Congress and White House teetered Sunday over a nearly $1.4 trillion economic rescue package, as the coronavirus crisis deepened, the nation shut down and the first U.S. senator tested positive for the disease.
As President Donald Trump took to the podium in the White House briefing room and promised to help Americans who feel afraid and isolated as the pandemic spreads, the Senate was turning back the aid package on a procedural vote. But negotiations continued on Capitol Hill.
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“We’re enduring a great national trial and we will prove that we can meet the moment,” Trump said. “We’re at war.”
At the otherwise emptied out Capitol, the draft aid bill was declared insufficient by Democrats, who argued it was tilted toward corporations rather than workers and healthcare providers. The setback sent Republicans back to the negotiating table.
With a population on edge and shell-shocked financial markets poised for the new work week, all sides were hoping for an agreement that would provide some relief against health and economic crises that are likely to stretch for several months.
“Americans don’t need to see us haggling endlessly,” warned Senate Majority Leader McConnell, R-Ky., his voice rising on the Senate floor. He sought passage of the package by Monday.
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But Democrats say the largely GOP-led effort does not go far enough to provide health care and unemployment aid for Americans, and fails to put restraints on a proposed $500 billion “slush fund” for corporations.
Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said the draft package “significantly cut back our hospitals, our cities, our states, our medical workers and so many others needed in this crisis.”
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., invoked Pope Francis in urging colleagues to “take responsibility” as Democrats prepared their own draft.
While the congressional leaders worked to send help, alarms were being sounded from coast to coast about the wave of coronavirus cases about to crash onto the nation’s health system.
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio had dire, urgent news from the pandemic’s U.S. epicenter: “April and May are going to be a lot worse,” he said on NBC’s “Meet the Press.”
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De Blasio all but begged Washington to help procure ventilators and other medical supplies. He accused the president of “not lifting a finger” to help.
“If the president doesn’t act, people will die who could have lived otherwise,” he said.
Trump urged Congress to get a deal done and, during the Sunday briefing, responded to criticism that his administration was sluggish to respond. He cited his cooperation with the three states hardest hit — New York, Washington and California — and invoked a measure to give governors flexibility in calling up the national guard under their control, while the federal government covers the bill.
But even as Trump stressed federal-local partnerships, some governors, including Republican Greg Abbott of Texas, expressed unhappiness with Washington’s response. The president himself took a swipe hours earlier at Gov. J. B. Pritzker, D-Ill., saying that he and “a very small group of certain other Governors, together with Fake News” should not be “blaming the Federal Government for their own shortcomings.”
This came as the first senator, Republican Rand Paul of Kentucky, announced he tested positive for the coronavirus. Paul, who is a doctor and close ally of the president, said in a tweet he was not showing symptoms and was in quarantine.
Paul was seen at a GOP senators’ lunch on Friday and swimming in the Senate gym pool on Sunday morning. His office said he left the Senate immediately after learning his diagnosis.
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A growing list of lawmakers have cycled in and out of isolation after exposure, and two members of the House have said they tested positive. Five senators were in self-quarantine Sunday evening.
In recent days, Trump invoked the Defense Protection Act, a rarely used, decades-old authority that can be used to compel the private sector to manufacture needed medical supplies like masks and ventilators. Officials said Sunday that it would be used voluntarily and businesses would not be compelled to act.
The president tweeted Sunday that automakers General Motors and Tesla were given “the go ahead” to make ventilators and other products. But no automaker is anywhere close to making medical gear such as ventilators and remain months away, if not longer. Nor do the car companies need the president’s permission to move forward.
Two days after he lashed out at a reporter who asked about his message to frightened Americans, Trump said, ``For those worried and afraid, please know as long as I am your president, you can feel confident that you have a leader who will always fight for you.”
But minutes later, when he learned that rival Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, was one of those in isolation, he declared “Romney’s in isolation? Gee, that’s too bad.”
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Trump claimed he was not being sarcastic.
The urgency to act is mounting, as jobless claims skyrocket, businesses shutter and the financial markets are set to re-open Monday eager for signs that Washington can soften the blow of the healthcare crisis and what experts say is a looming recession.
At issue is how best to keep paychecks flowing for millions of workers abruptly sidelined by the crisis, shore up business and create a so-called Marshall Plan for U.S. hospitals — evoking the postwar effort to rebuild Western Europe.
Officials put the price tag of the rescue package at nearly $1.4 trillion and said that with other measures from the Federal Reserve it could pump $2 trillion into the U.S. economy.
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who was leading a third day of nonstop talks on Capitol Hill, said the plan was meant to prop up the nation’s weakened economy for the next 10 to 12 weeks.
Mnuchin said workers and businesses will get assistance to help cover payrolls for the next 10 weeks; unemployment insurance; and a one-time “bridge payment” of about $3,000 for a family of four. Hospitals, he said, will get approximately $110 billion for the expected influx of sick patients.
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The treasury secretary said a significant part of the package will involve working with the Federal Reserve for up to $4 trillion of liquidity to support the economy with “broad-based lending programs.”
But Democrats have pushed for add-ons, including food security aid, small business loans and other measures for workers — saying the three months of unemployment insurance offered under the draft plan was not enough.
They warned the draft plan’s $500 billion “corporate slush fund” does not put enough restraints on business, saying the ban on corporate stock buy-backs are weak and the limits on executive pay are only for two years.
“We’re not here to create a slush fund for Donald Trump and his family, or a slush fund for the Treasury Department to be able to hand out to their friends,” said Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren. “We’re here to help workers, we’re here to help hospitals.”
There is also a $242 billion proposal for emergency supplemental food, hospital and public health needs, including for the Centers for Disease Control.
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The details are coming from drafts of both bills circulating among lobbyists but not yet released to the public. They were obtained by The Associated Press.
For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.
The vast majority of people recover from the new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover.
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Bev Banks contributed. Associated Press writers Colleen Long, Hope Yen, Mary Clare Jalonick, Ricardo Alonso-Zaldivar, Alan Fram and Padmananda Rama contributed to this report.
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The Associated Press receives support for health and science coverage from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.


thehuffingtonpost--2020-03-22--Mnuchin Dismisses Report That U.S. Ignored Coronavirus Warnings: ‘No One Expected’ It

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said on Sunday that “ no one expected ” the coronavirus to spread as quickly as it did , in response to a question about a recent report stating that federal government officials ignored warnings from U.S. intelligence agencies about the virus as early as January .
“ I ’ ve now been on the task force listening to the medical professionals for a long period of time , ” Mnuchin said on Fox News Sunday when asked about Friday ’ s report in the Washington Post .
“ I said a few weeks ago I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I did .
The situation has changed very quickly and the president has responded to that.
” According to the article , U.S. intelligence agencies issued classified warnings in January and February to members of Congress as well as the Trump administration about the potential global impact of the virus .
It further warned that Chinese officials appeared to be minimizing the severity of the outbreak .
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Sunday said `` no one expected '' the coronavirus to spread as quickly as it did .
He also outlined details @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stimulus package .
“ I don ’ t think anybody should second guess the government actions .
This has been moving very quickly and I think we have been responding appropriately , ” he said .
Mnuchin , who said his focus is on the economic side of the outbreak , also outlined a proposed coronavirus relief package that he has been hammering out with congressional leaders of both parties in hopes of securing its passage on Monday .
The package would support the economy for 10 to 12 weeks , he said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businesses with two weeks of cash flow to pay their workers , with the agreement that they will be retained .
Should businesses agree , the loan will be forgiven , he said .
“ That ’ s about half of our workforce , ” Mnuchin said of the affected workers .
“ That will allow small businesses to keep people and make sure when we open the economy , they ’ re up and running.
” A second measure would provide direct deposits to Americans , with the average amount provided to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3,000 .
“ This you can think of as a bridge for them to get through this , ” he said .
There would also be enhanced unemployment insurance to those laid off and up to $ 4 trillion in liquidity to support the economy , as part of an agreement with the Federal Reserve , he said .
A final proposal would provide hospitals and medical professionals economic relief .
Though an exact amount has yet to be determined , he acknowledged it is expected to be about $ 110 billion .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ understanding and we look forward to wrapping it up today , ” he said of his work with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell ( R-Ky. ) , Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer ( D-N.Y. ) , House Speaker Nancy Pelosi ( D-Calif. ) and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy ( R-Calif. ) .

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Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said on Sunday that “no one expected” the coronavirus to spread as quickly as it did, in response to a question about a recent report stating that federal government officials ignored warnings from U.S. intelligence agencies about the virus as early as January.
“I’ve now been on the task force listening to the medical professionals for a long period of time,” Mnuchin said on Fox News Sunday when asked about Friday’s report in the Washington Post. “I said a few weeks ago I felt comfortable traveling on commercial airfare. I did. The situation has changed very quickly and the president has responded to that.”
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According to the article, U.S. intelligence agencies issued classified warnings in January and February to members of Congress as well as the Trump administration about the potential global impact of the virus. It further warned that Chinese officials appeared to be minimizing the severity of the outbreak.
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Sunday said "no one expected" the coronavirus to spread as quickly as it did. He also outlined details of the Trump administration's proposed economic stimulus package. Fox News
Mnuchin, responding to the Post article, said he wanted to be careful when talking about “specific intelligence.”
“I don’t think anybody should second guess the government actions. This has been moving very quickly and I think we have been responding appropriately,” he said.
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Mnuchin, who said his focus is on the economic side of the outbreak, also outlined a proposed coronavirus relief package that he has been hammering out with congressional leaders of both parties in hopes of securing its passage on Monday. The package would support the economy for 10 to 12 weeks, he said.
The first proposal would provide small businesses with two weeks of cash flow to pay their workers, with the agreement that they will be retained. Should businesses agree, the loan will be forgiven, he said.
Secretary Mnuchin joined FOX News Sunday to discuss the latest economic relief package being discussed on Capitol Hill amid the coronavirus pandemic. Some highlights include small business loans, direct deposits, and enhanced unemployment insurance. #FNS #FoxNews pic.twitter.com/1eZKI15ONC — FoxNewsSunday (@FoxNewsSunday) March 22, 2020
“That’s about half of our workforce,” Mnuchin said of the affected workers. “That will allow small businesses to keep people and make sure when we open the economy, they’re up and running.”
A second measure would provide direct deposits to Americans, with the average amount provided to a family of four being about $3,000.
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“This you can think of as a bridge for them to get through this,” he said.
There would also be enhanced unemployment insurance to those laid off and up to $4 trillion in liquidity to support the economy, as part of an agreement with the Federal Reserve, he said.
A final proposal would provide hospitals and medical professionals economic relief. Though an exact amount has yet to be determined, he acknowledged it is expected to be about $110 billion.


thehuffingtonpost--2020-03-22--Rand Paul Becomes First Senator Known To Contract Coronavirus

Sen. Rand Paul ( R-Ky. ) has tested positive for COVID-19 , the disease caused by the coronavirus , his office announced Sunday .
He is the first senator known to have contracted the virus .
The Kentucky Republican is “ feeling fine ” and is in quarantine , according to a tweet sent from his account .
“ He is asymptomatic and was tested out of an abundance of caution due to his extensive travel and events , ” the tweet continued .
“ He was not aware of any direct contact with any infected person.
” Senator Rand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He is feeling fine and is in quarantine .
He is asymptomatic and was tested out of an abundance of caution due to his extensive travel and events .
He was not aware of any direct contact with any infected person .
— Senator Rand Paul ( @ RandPaul ) March 22 , 2020 “ He expects to be back in the Senate after his quarantine period ends and will continue to work for the people of Kentucky at this difficult time , ” said a second tweet sent from Paul ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Congress known to have contracted the virus , which has infected more than 31,000 people in the U.S. and over 320,000 people worldwide .
Two members of the House of Representatives ― Mario Diaz-Balart ( R-Fla. ) and Ben McAdams ( D-Utah ) ― announced they had the virus last week .
It ’ s unclear how Paul was able to secure a test despite his lack of symptoms or known direct contact with an infected person .
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has asked only those who are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contact with someone who has tested positive for the virus to seek a test .
Several senators have reportedly expressed concern over coming in contact with Paul in recent days , unaware that he had the virus until this morning .
Three GOP senators told CNN that Paul was in the gym with colleagues earlier Sunday , and he was observed sitting near others during recent lunches .
“ All the senators are going to seek medical advice as to what action we should take to make sure that we don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” Sen. Mitt Romney ( R-Utah ) told reporters on Sunday .
“ We had a lunch together with Rand , and hope he ’ s doing very well , but we have to determine whether any of us should self-quarantine as a result of being in the same room .
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Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) has tested positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, his office announced Sunday. He is the first senator known to have contracted the virus.
The Kentucky Republican is “feeling fine” and is in quarantine, according to a tweet sent from his account.
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“He is asymptomatic and was tested out of an abundance of caution due to his extensive travel and events,” the tweet continued. “He was not aware of any direct contact with any infected person.”
Senator Rand Paul has tested positive for COVID-19. He is feeling fine and is in quarantine. He is asymptomatic and was tested out of an abundance of caution due to his extensive travel and events. He was not aware of any direct contact with any infected person. — Senator Rand Paul (@RandPaul) March 22, 2020
Paul’s office began operating remotely 10 days ago.
“He expects to be back in the Senate after his quarantine period ends and will continue to work for the people of Kentucky at this difficult time,” said a second tweet sent from Paul’s account.
Paul is the third member of Congress known to have contracted the virus, which has infected more than 31,000 people in the U.S. and over 320,000 people worldwide. Two members of the House of Representatives ― Mario Diaz-Balart (R-Fla.) and Ben McAdams (D-Utah) ― announced they had the virus last week.
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It’s unclear how Paul was able to secure a test despite his lack of symptoms or known direct contact with an infected person. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has asked only those who are showing symptoms of COVID-19 or have had contact with someone who has tested positive for the virus to seek a test.
Paul’s office did not immediately respond to HuffPost’s request for comment.
Several senators have reportedly expressed concern over coming in contact with Paul in recent days, unaware that he had the virus until this morning. Three GOP senators told CNN that Paul was in the gym with colleagues earlier Sunday, and he was observed sitting near others during recent lunches.


thehuffingtonpost--2020-03-22--Why Elizabeth Warren Is Everywhere On Coronavirus Response

Tom Williams via Getty Images Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren , whose presidential bid ended just over two weeks ago , unveiled a proposal with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Ohio Sen. Sherrod Brown to cancel some student loan debt as part of an economic response to the coronavirus pandemic .
On March 4 , Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren was in the middle of ending her 14-month presidential bid , following a disappointing finish in key states on Super Tuesday .
She would officially drop out the next day .
Still , Warren found time to fire off a letter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asking it to suspend immigration enforcement actions at hospitals and other medical facilities during the coronavirus outbreak .
Even before she left the presidential race , Warren had worked to shape seemingly every element of the federal government ’ s response to the coronavirus pandemic and the steep recession that is almost certainly coming with it .
Her proposal to bar companies who receive bailout funds from stock buybacks has been endorsed by even conservative Republicans , and she worked with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer ( D-N.Y. ) to make canceling student @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s proposed response to the crisis .
She ’ s peppered seemingly every branch of President Donald Trump ’ s administration with letters demanding details on how they ’ re responding , sending more than 25 letters to different branches and agencies , covering everyone from the Federal Communications Commission to the National Institutes of Health to Vice President Mike Pence ’ s office .
“ This is not my first rodeo , ” Warren said on a conference call hosted by progressive health care activist Ady Barkan on Wednesday night , referring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during the 2008-2009 financial crisis .
“ We need a big enough stimulus package to support the economy .
If we go small , giant corporations will recover but working families won ’ t. ” As Warren returns to a legislative minority , and to being just one of 100 senators ― albeit one with a bigger platform than most ― her proposals have a long way to go to collecting the 60 Senate votes and House majority necessary to become law , and her letters to Trump ’ s underlings in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But her actions show she ’ s continuing her role as the Democratic Party ’ s ideas factory even after her presidential campaign sputtered .
To Warren allies , it makes perfect sense that the second-term senator would grieve the end of her campaign by making policy .
Warren ’ s original rise to political prominence was a result of the similarly complicated and all-encompassing 2008 financial crisis , and Warren released plans to deal with both a pandemic and a financial collapse during her 2020 run for the presidency .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of course she ’ s sad .
But her life ’ s work isn ’ t to become president ; it ’ s to solve problems , ” said Adam Jentleson , a Democratic strategist who supported Warren ’ s presidential bid and was a top aide to former Senate Democratic leader Harry Reid .
“ She ’ d rather be doing this than anything else.
” Warren ’ s biggest influence so far has come from pushing for restrictions on industries that receive bailouts : On Tuesday , she rolled out a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be placed on any company that receives government funds to help stay afloat during the pandemic , including a permanent ban on stock buybacks , a three-year ban on dividends or executive bonuses and setting aside board seats for employee-elected representatives .
Two days later , Schumer and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi ( D-Calif. ) staked out a similar position .
And in the days since , Trump and some Republican senators have indicated they would back restrictions on stock buybacks .
“ To earn Democratic support in the Congress , any economic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and strict provisions that prioritize and protect workers , such as banning the recipient companies from buying back stock , rewarding executives , and laying off workers , ” Schumer and Pelosi said in a joint statement .
Warren ’ s also helped shape Senate Democrats ’ legislative response .
On Thursday morning , Schumer ― along with Warren and Democratic Sens .
Patty Murray of Washington and Sherrod Brown of Ohio ― unveiled a plan to cancel student loan payments for the duration of the coronavirus crisis and to cancel at least @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Warren has lobbied for all of these positions behind the scenes , her aides said , holding two calls to push Schumer on student loan debt cancellation and expanding Social Security , and four calls with Wyden ― the top Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee ― on Social Security .
Warren met with the pair before a vote on the first phase of the coronavirus relief plan on Wednesday .
And she ’ s continued to bombard the Trump administration with requests .
On Friday alone , she asked the FCC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ low-income students access the internet while schools were closed , and pushed the Trump administration to decrease the number of people in prisons and jails to slow the pandemic ’ s spread .

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On March 4, Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren was in the middle of ending her 14-month presidential bid, following a disappointing finish in key states on Super Tuesday. She would officially drop out the next day.
Still, Warren found time to fire off a letter to the Department of Homeland Security, asking it to suspend immigration enforcement actions at hospitals and other medical facilities during the coronavirus outbreak.
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The senator has barely let up since.
Even before she left the presidential race, Warren had worked to shape seemingly every element of the federal government’s response to the coronavirus pandemic and the steep recession that is almost certainly coming with it. Her proposal to bar companies who receive bailout funds from stock buybacks has been endorsed by even conservative Republicans, and she worked with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) to make canceling student debt part of the Democratic Party’s proposed response to the crisis.
She’s peppered seemingly every branch of President Donald Trump’s administration with letters demanding details on how they’re responding, sending more than 25 letters to different branches and agencies, covering everyone from the Federal Communications Commission to the National Institutes of Health to Vice President Mike Pence’s office.
“This is not my first rodeo,” Warren said on a conference call hosted by progressive health care activist Ady Barkan on Wednesday night, referring to her star-making role as a watchdog during the 2008-2009 financial crisis. “We need a big enough stimulus package to support the economy. If we go small, giant corporations will recover but working families won’t.”
Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, whose presidential bid ended just over two weeks ago, unveiled a proposal with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Ohio Sen. Sherrod Brown to cancel some student loan debt as part of an economic response to the coronavirus pandemic. Tom Williams via Getty Images
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As Warren returns to a legislative minority, and to being just one of 100 senators ― albeit one with a bigger platform than most ― her proposals have a long way to go to collecting the 60 Senate votes and House majority necessary to become law, and her letters to Trump’s underlings in the administration might not cause giant policy shifts. But as the two parties battle over how best to respond to the crisis, Warren’s role in the debate shows she’s continuing to function as the Democratic Party’s ideas factory even after her presidential campaign sputtered.
To Warren allies, it makes perfect sense that the second-term senator would grieve the end of her campaign by making policy. Warren’s original rise to political prominence was a result of the similarly complicated and all-encompassing 2008 financial crisis, and Warren released plans to deal with both a pandemic and a financial collapse during her 2020 run for the presidency.
“Of course she’s disappointed, of course she’s sad. But her life’s work isn’t to become president; it’s to solve problems,” said Adam Jentleson, a Democratic strategist who supported Warren’s presidential bid and was a top aide to former Senate Democratic leader Harry Reid. “She’d rather be doing this than anything else.”
Warren’s biggest influence so far has come from pushing for restrictions on industries that receive bailouts: On Tuesday, she rolled out a list of eight conditions she argued should be placed on any company that receives government funds to help stay afloat during the pandemic, including a permanent ban on stock buybacks, a three-year ban on dividends or executive bonuses and setting aside board seats for employee-elected representatives.
.@ewarren is out with eight conditions she argues should be placed on any corporate bailout, including a $15 minimum wage and a three-year ban on dividends or executive bonuses. pic.twitter.com/7YBGekU3oA — Kevin Robillard (@Robillard) March 17, 2020
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Two days later, Schumer and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) staked out a similar position. And in the days since, Trump and some Republican senators have indicated they would back restrictions on stock buybacks.
“To earn Democratic support in the Congress, any economic stimulus proposal must include new, strong and strict provisions that prioritize and protect workers, such as banning the recipient companies from buying back stock, rewarding executives, and laying off workers,” Schumer and Pelosi said in a joint statement.
Warren’s also helped shape Senate Democrats’ legislative response. On Thursday morning, Schumer ― along with Warren and Democratic Sens. Patty Murray of Washington and Sherrod Brown of Ohio ― unveiled a plan to cancel student loan payments for the duration of the coronavirus crisis and to cancel at least $10,000 for every student loan borrower.
And on Saturday, Schumer, Warren and Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden (D) announced a proposal to increase Social Security benefits by $200 a month for all recipients over the next two years.
On Sunday, former Vice President Joe Biden – who is still seeking Warren’s endorsement for his presidential bid – announced he was supporting both the Social Security and student debt cancellation proposals. It was the first time Biden backed any form of mass erasure of student debt. (He had previously supported student loan forgiveness for students who entered public service, as well as income-based repayment plans.)
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Additionally, we should forgive a minimum of $10,000/person of federal student loans, as proposed by Senator Warren and colleagues. Young people and other student debt holders bore the brunt of the last crisis. It shouldn't happen again. — Joe Biden (Text Join to 30330) (@JoeBiden) March 22, 2020
Warren has lobbied for all of these positions behind the scenes, her aides said, holding two calls to push Schumer on student loan debt cancellation and expanding Social Security, and four calls with Wyden ― the top Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee ― on Social Security. Warren met with the pair before a vote on the first phase of the coronavirus relief plan on Wednesday.
If there’s one element of the debate where Warren hasn’t weighed in, it’s crafting Democratic plans to give cash directly to consumers – Brown, along with New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker and Colorado Sen. Michael Bennet, crafted Senate Democrats’ proposal. Warren aides said it’s because her focus remains on structural reforms to the economy.
Warren has also held phone calls with at least eight members of the House’s Congressional Progressive Caucus, aiming to work her provisions into that chamber’s eventual stimulus plan.
And she’s continued to bombard the Trump administration with requests. On Friday alone, she asked the FCC for details on how they were helping low-income students access the internet while schools were closed, and pushed the Trump administration to decrease the number of people in prisons and jails to slow the pandemic’s spread.
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thehuffingtonpost--2020-03-22--NYC Mayor Bill De Blasio: More People Will Die If Trump Doesn’t Act On Coronavirus

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio ( D ) on Sunday lashed out against President Donald Trump over his inadequate response to the coronavirus pandemic , stating more people will die if the president doesn ’ t take more action .
As of Sunday , about one-third of the United States ’ nearly 27,000 confirmed coronavirus cases were in New York City , de Blasio said during an interview on NBC ’ s “ Meet the Press.
” Hospitals across the state and country that are in short supply of ventilators and other medical equipment need to treat patients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t doing nearly enough to help them , the mayor added .
“ The truth is , and New Yorkers and all Americans deserve the blunt truth , it ’ s only getting worse , ” de Blasio said .
“ And in fact , April and May are going to be a lot worse.
” He continued : “ The president of the United States is from New York City and he will not lift a finger to help his hometown .
...
I can ’ t be blunt enough : If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people will die who could have lived otherwise.
” “ We ’ re about 10 days away now from seeing widespread shortages of ventilators , surgical masks , the things necessary to keep a hospital system running , ” de Blasio said Sunday .
“ We have seen next to nothing from the federal government at this point .
We have seen — we ’ ve made this plea publicly , privately , letters , phone calls — very , very little has arrived.
” Both de Blasio and New York Gov .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Trump to mobilize the military to help expand hospital capacity in the state .
A U.S. Navy hospital ship with 1,000 hospital beds has been sent to the city to help relieve some of the stress on New York , but it isn ’ t scheduled to arrive until mid-April .
Trump has also given mixed messages as to whether he will invoke the Defense Production Act , a federal law enacted in response to the Korean War in 1950 to boost the production of needed supplies .
As of Sunday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ several U.S. companies stating they would be willing to help manufacture masks and ventilators .
“ I don ’ t get it , ” de Blasio said of Trump ’ s response to the virus .
“ Right now , I have asked repeatedly for the military to be mobilized , for the Defense Production Act to be used to its fullest to get us things like ventilators so people can live who would die otherwise.
” “ If there are ventilators being produced anywhere in the country , we need to get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from now or months from now ― in the next 10 days , ” he added .
“ And the only force in America that can do that is the military .
Why are they at their bases ?
Why are they not being allowed to serve ?
I guarantee they ’ re ready to serve , but the president has to give the order.
” “ Time matters .
Minutes count .
This is literally life and death , ” Cuomo said .
“ We get these facilities , we get the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If we don ’ t , we will lose lives.
” “ Unless we tell people to stay home and to stop interacting in the way that they were , we ’ re going to see more and more ― thousands more , tens of thousands of more ― deaths than we otherwise would , ” said Pritzker , who issued such an order in his state on Friday .
Illinois Gov .
J.B. Pritzker says stay-at-home orders should have been done nationally : `` Unless we tell people to stay home and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they were , we 're going to see more ... tens of thousands of more deaths than we otherwise would '' # CNNSOTU pic.twitter.com/JI2zdgDSBY — CNN Politics ( @ CNNPolitics ) March 22 , 2020

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New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio (D) on Sunday lashed out against President Donald Trump over his inadequate response to the coronavirus pandemic, stating more people will die if the president doesn’t take more action.
As of Sunday, about one-third of the United States’ nearly 27,000 confirmed coronavirus cases were in New York City, de Blasio said during an interview on NBC’s “Meet the Press.” Hospitals across the state and country that are in short supply of ventilators and other medical equipment need to treat patients with the virus and Trump isn’t doing nearly enough to help them, the mayor added.
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“The truth is, and New Yorkers and all Americans deserve the blunt truth, it’s only getting worse,” de Blasio said. “And in fact, April and May are going to be a lot worse.”
He continued: “The president of the United States is from New York City and he will not lift a finger to help his hometown. ... I can’t be blunt enough: If the president doesn’t act, people will die who could have lived otherwise.”
Trump, a lifelong New Yorker, changed his primary residence from Manhattan to Palm Beach, Florida, in September.
WATCH: @NYCMayor says "if the president doesn't act, people will die who could have lived otherwise." #MTP #IfItsSunday
Mayor de Blasio: "If there are ventilators being produced anywhere in the country, we need to get them to New York ... in the next 10 days." pic.twitter.com/TseexRZD42 — Meet the Press (@MeetThePress) March 22, 2020
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“We’re about 10 days away now from seeing widespread shortages of ventilators, surgical masks, the things necessary to keep a hospital system running,” de Blasio said Sunday. “We have seen next to nothing from the federal government at this point. We have seen — we’ve made this plea publicly, privately, letters, phone calls — very, very little has arrived.”
New York has about 50,000 hospital beds and 3,000 intensive care unit beds ― a small amount compared to the number of coronavirus cases expected to affect the state.
Both de Blasio and New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) have called on Trump to mobilize the military to help expand hospital capacity in the state. A U.S. Navy hospital ship with 1,000 hospital beds has been sent to the city to help relieve some of the stress on New York, but it isn’t scheduled to arrive until mid-April.
Trump has also given mixed messages as to whether he will invoke the Defense Production Act, a federal law enacted in response to the Korean War in 1950 to boost the production of needed supplies. As of Sunday, he had not yet invoked it despite several U.S. companies stating they would be willing to help manufacture masks and ventilators.
“I don’t get it,” de Blasio said of Trump’s response to the virus. “Right now, I have asked repeatedly for the military to be mobilized, for the Defense Production Act to be used to its fullest to get us things like ventilators so people can live who would die otherwise.”
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“If there are ventilators being produced anywhere in the country, we need to get them to New York ― not weeks from now or months from now ― in the next 10 days,” he added. “And the only force in America that can do that is the military. Why are they at their bases? Why are they not being allowed to serve? I guarantee they’re ready to serve, but the president has to give the order.”
During a news conference later Sunday, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) echoed de Blasio’s concerns about hospital capacity and a lack of medical supplies.
“Time matters. Minutes count. This is literally life and death,” Cuomo said. “We get these facilities, we get the supplies, we will save lives. If we don’t, we will lose lives.”
All “elective, non-critical” surgeries in the state will be canceled effective Wednesday in an effort to free up roughly 25% more hospital beds, Cuomo said.
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker (D) told CNN’s “State of the Union” on Sunday that the federal government should have issued a nationwide stay-at-home order.
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“Unless we tell people to stay home and to stop interacting in the way that they were, we’re going to see more and more ― thousands more, tens of thousands of more ― deaths than we otherwise would,” said Pritzker, who issued such an order in his state on Friday.
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says stay-at-home orders should have been done nationally: "Unless we tell people to stay home and to stop interacting in the way that they were, we're going to see more ... tens of thousands of more deaths than we otherwise would" #CNNSOTU pic.twitter.com/JI2zdgDSBY — CNN Politics (@CNNPolitics) March 22, 2020
The White House did not immediately respond to HuffPost’s request for comment.


thehuffingtonpost--2020-03-22--FEMA Head Says Masks Are Being Shipped To Hospitals, But Can't Provide Details

The head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency on Sunday said that additional face masks are being shipped from the national stockpile to U.S. hospitals facing shortages due to the coronavirus pandemic .
He did not , however , provide details related to the timeline or number of masks sent .
“ They ’ re shipping today .
They ’ ll ship tomorrow , ” FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor told ABC ’ s “ This Week.
” “ We find more and more masks to ship .
We are trying to focus those shipments on the most critical hotspots of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ City , Washington state , California.
” Host Martha Raddatz asked Gaynor which type of masks were being distributed as well as how many and when , but the emergency manager couldn ’ t say .
“ Will the health care systems there be overwhelmed there before masks get there ?
” she asked .
“ There ’ s hundreds of thousands of millions of things that we ’ re shipping from the stockpile , ” Gaynor said .
“ I can ’ t give you the details about what every single state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But I ’ m telling you that we are shipping from our national stockpile , we ’ re shipping from vendors , we ’ re shipping from donations .
It is happening .
The demand is great.
” Asked why all the masks from the stockpile haven ’ t been shipped yet and why more weren ’ t sent earlier , as health professionals nationwide have been begging for more supplies , Gaynor said his focus is on “ today.
” “ I am well aware of the high demand for these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ My focus is today .
Filling all the demands that have been in the queue.
” Trump initially downplayed the potential threat and spread of the virus as it essentially shut down parts of China and whole countries like Italy earlier this year .
Health experts say the federal government ’ s slow rollout of testing procedures kneecapped the nation ’ s ability to contain the virus .
“ Well , I ’ m not gong to look back at what should have been done , what wasn ’ t done and we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” Gaynor responded .
“ Again , my focus is ... on today.
” There are over 27,000 confirmed cases of the coronavirus in the U.S. , according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University .
More than 340 people across the country have died from COVID-19 , the disease caused by the virus .
Despite urgent pleas from governors and members of Congress , Trump has waffled on whether to invoke the Defense Production Act , a 1950 law that could ramp up the production of much-needed medical supplies .
Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the go ahead ” to automakers to start producing “ ventilators and other metal products , ” though Gaynor said the DPA hasn ’ t yet been invoked .
“ We are working to source from all different kinds of manufacturing , ” Gaynor said .
“ These are finite , limited resources .
Will we ever have enough ?
I ’ m not sure .
But our goal is to make sure that we aim these critical resources to the places that need them the most.
” “ But it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ve requested , ” he continued .
“ We need millions of masks and hundreds of thousands of gowns and gloves and the rest .
And unfortunately , we ’ re getting still just a fraction of that .
So we ’ re out on the open market competing for these items that we so badly need .
”

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The head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency on Sunday said that additional face masks are being shipped from the national stockpile to U.S. hospitals facing shortages due to the coronavirus pandemic. He did not, however, provide details related to the timeline or number of masks sent.
“They’re shipping today. They’ll ship tomorrow,” FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor told ABC’s “This Week.” “We find more and more masks to ship. We are trying to focus those shipments on the most critical hotspots of the country ― places like New York City, Washington state, California.”
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Host Martha Raddatz asked Gaynor which type of masks were being distributed as well as how many and when, but the emergency manager couldn’t say. “Will the health care systems there be overwhelmed there before masks get there?” she asked.
“There’s hundreds of thousands of millions of things that we’re shipping from the stockpile,” Gaynor said. “I can’t give you the details about what every single state or what every single city is doing. But I’m telling you that we are shipping from our national stockpile, we’re shipping from vendors, we’re shipping from donations. It is happening. The demand is great.”
Raddatz continued to press Gaynor for specifics, asking how many masks were in the stockpile but he didn’t say.
“There are still supplies in the stockpile,” Gaynor said. “We’re prepared to go to zero in the stockpile to meet demand.”
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Asked why all the masks from the stockpile haven’t been shipped yet and why more weren’t sent earlier, as health professionals nationwide have been begging for more supplies, Gaynor said his focus is on “today.”
“I am well aware of the high demand for these items,” he said. “My focus is today. Filling all the demands that have been in the queue.”
“Will the health care systems there be overwhelmed before masks get there?” @MarthaRaddatz presses FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor on shortage.
“The demand is great,” Gaynor says but doesn't provide numbers of masks already shipped or concrete timeline. https://t.co/ltGdUwXm8h pic.twitter.com/8dU39sTC5y — This Week (@ThisWeekABC) March 22, 2020
Democrats, medical professionals and public health experts have sharply criticized President Donald Trump and his administration for being slow to respond to intelligence briefings and warnings from other countries about the coronavirus risk.
Trump initially downplayed the potential threat and spread of the virus as it essentially shut down parts of China and whole countries like Italy earlier this year. Health experts say the federal government’s slow rollout of testing procedures kneecapped the nation’s ability to contain the virus.
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FEMA was only invited to join the White House’s coronavirus task force, led by Vice President Mike Pence, last week, Gaynor said Sunday.
“Should FEMA’s involvement have ramped up sooner and why didn’t it?” Raddatz asked Gaynor.
“Well, I’m not gong to look back at what should have been done, what wasn’t done and we can do that at a later time,” Gaynor responded. “Again, my focus is ... on today.”
There are over 27,000 confirmed cases of the coronavirus in the U.S., according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University. More than 340 people across the country have died from COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus.
Despite urgent pleas from governors and members of Congress, Trump has waffled on whether to invoke the Defense Production Act, a 1950 law that could ramp up the production of much-needed medical supplies. Trump tweeted Sunday that he had “given the go ahead” to automakers to start producing “ventilators and other metal products,” though Gaynor said the DPA hasn’t yet been invoked.
“It’s an insurance policy,” Gaynor told NBC’s “Meet The Press” on Sunday. ”If we have to throw that lever we will. ... We haven’t had to use it yet.”
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When asked if he was confident whether FEMA will be able to provide enough masks and ventilators to treat COVID-19 patients, Gaynor didn’t say.
“We are working to source from all different kinds of manufacturing,” Gaynor said. “These are finite, limited resources. Will we ever have enough? I’m not sure. But our goal is to make sure that we aim these critical resources to the places that need them the most.”
WATCH: FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor calls the Defense Production Act an "insurance policy ... a lever, if we have to throw that lever we will." #MTP #IfItsSunday@FEMA_Pete: "We haven't had to use it yet. Will we have to use it? Maybe." pic.twitter.com/sEVy8EA5fZ — Meet the Press (@MeetThePress) March 22, 2020
In another interview Sunday, Gaynor told CNN’s “State Of The Union” that hospitals and governors should buy masks if they can find them and FEMA will reimburse them.
“This is a shared responsibility,” Gaynor said. “Every American has a role to play in defeating the virus. ... The president appointed FEMA five days ago to manage federal operations and, since I’ve been here, we’ve been shipping continuously.”
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In a subsequent interview on CNN, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker (D) said FEMA being tapped to lead the emergency response has been helpful in the overall fight against the virus, but said medical supplies are still limited.
“I do think FEMA is more prepared for this than the other agencies were,” he said. “For example, we have received some [personal protective equipment] in the past couple of weeks.
“But it’s a fraction still of what we’ve requested,” he continued. “We need millions of masks and hundreds of thousands of gowns and gloves and the rest. And unfortunately, we’re getting still just a fraction of that. So we’re out on the open market competing for these items that we so badly need.”


thehuffingtonpost--2020-03-22--Gov. Andrew Cuomo Slams 'Arrogant' New Yorkers Still Gathering In Large Groups

New York Gov .
Andrew Cuomo ( D ) on Sunday lashed out at people in New York City who are ignoring social distancing guidelines put in place by federal , state and local officials amid the coronavirus pandemic .
During a news conference , Cuomo said he had visited New York City on Saturday and saw crowds of people gathered in some of the public parks .
“ There is a density level in New York City that is wholly inappropriate , ” he said .
“ You would think there was nothing going on .
...
I don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saying that people don ’ t get.
” “ This is not life as usual , ” he continued .
“ I was in these parks .
You would not know that anything was going on .
This is just a mistake .
It ’ s a mistake .
It ’ s insensitive , it ’ s arrogant , it ’ s self-destructive , it ’ s disrespectful to other people , and it has to stop .
And it has to stop now .
This is not a joke.
” In the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been confirmed as having the virus and at least 400 people have died , according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University .
More than 9,000 confirmed cases are in New York City alone .
Twitter users have shared pictures of crowds of people walking and picnicking in Prospect Park in Brooklyn in recent weeks despite the pandemic .
“ All sorts of kids playing basketball yesterday , ” Cuomo said Sunday of his visit to the city .
“ There ’ s no concept of social distancing while playing basketball .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he wanted a plan from New York City in the next 24 hours about how to deal with the “ significant problem ” of people continuing to gather in parks .
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio ( D ) told reporters later Sunday that he is “ fully aligned ” with Cuomo on the parks issue .
“ We understand that we have a big and different and new challenge on our hands , ” de Blasio said .
Beginning Monday , the city will enforce the “ new reality ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Blasio said .
Playgrounds will remain open , but people can not stay in parks for too long or talk to other people , reported The Wall Street Journal .
He said the city is “ certainly considering ” closing some streets and opening them for recreational use .

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New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) on Sunday lashed out at people in New York City who are ignoring social distancing guidelines put in place by federal, state and local officials amid the coronavirus pandemic.
During a news conference, Cuomo said he had visited New York City on Saturday and saw crowds of people gathered in some of the public parks.
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“There is a density level in New York City that is wholly inappropriate,” he said. “You would think there was nothing going on. ... I don’t know what I’m saying that people don’t get.”
“This is not life as usual,” he continued. “I was in these parks. You would not know that anything was going on. This is just a mistake. It’s a mistake. It’s insensitive, it’s arrogant, it’s self-destructive, it’s disrespectful to other people, and it has to stop. And it has to stop now. This is not a joke.”
In the U.S., more than 32,000 people have been confirmed as having the virus and at least 400 people have died, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University. More than 9,000 confirmed cases are in New York City alone.
Twitter users have shared pictures of crowds of people walking and picnicking in Prospect Park in Brooklyn in recent weeks despite the pandemic.
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Everyone in Brooklyn read “social distancing” as “go to Prospect Park” pic.twitter.com/TnY8xbfXPs — Leah (@leah_retta) March 14, 2020
Live from Brooklyn, it’s Prospect Park!
“Social Distancing? What’s that?” pic.twitter.com/e0arjMkSlp — Javier E. David (@TeflonGeek) March 20, 2020
“All sorts of kids playing basketball yesterday,” Cuomo said Sunday of his visit to the city. “There’s no concept of social distancing while playing basketball. It doesn’t exist.”
He said he wanted a plan from New York City in the next 24 hours about how to deal with the “significant problem” of people continuing to gather in parks.
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio (D) told reporters later Sunday that he is “fully aligned” with Cuomo on the parks issue.
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“We understand that we have a big and different and new challenge on our hands,” de Blasio said.
Beginning Monday, the city will enforce the “new reality” of no crowds in parks, de Blasio said. Playgrounds will remain open, but people cannot stay in parks for too long or talk to other people, reported The Wall Street Journal.