thehuffingtonpost--2020-07-28--Republicans Really Want To Block You From Suing Corporations Over Coronavirus Exposure

The GOP effort to grant businesses , schools and hospitals special liability protections is so extreme that consumer and worker advocates say it would do more than just hinder access to the courts ― it would undercut one of the main incentives companies have for trying to limit the spread of the virus .
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell ( R-Ky. ) has made a legislative priority of shielding companies from coronavirus-related lawsuits , despite the economic recovery showing signs of stalling and millions of jobless workers facing the loss of their extra unemployment benefits .
The bill rolled out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a broader coronavirus package would give companies plenty of immunity , though it will face strong opposition in the Democratic-controlled House .
McConnell has warned of an “ avalanche ” of litigation stemming from the pandemic that could throttle the economy , but so far it hasn ’ t materialized .
According to a COVID-19 complaint tracker from the law firm Hunton Andrews Kurth , around 3,800 complaints related to the pandemic have been filed in court since March .
But only 257 are classified as consumer-related , and only 342 as employment-related @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , involves insurance .
Nonetheless , the GOP bill would raise the bar for almost anyone trying to take a company to court over coronavirus exposure .
A plaintiff would have to prove that a company was grossly negligent in their handling of the virus , and that it had failed to take even “ reasonable ” steps to follow government guidelines on the pandemic .
David Muraskin , a lawyer with the nonprofit Public Justice , said a company could avoid a lawsuit even if it didn ’ t take basic precautions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he noted , the federal government has not told employers they must meet certain social distancing measures ― only that they should try where possible .
With few mandatory rules to follow , Muraskin said , there are not many requirements a company has to meet to demonstrate it was being reasonable .
“ I would need to show that you had this almost purposeful intent to be unreasonable and prove it , and that is a very high standard , ” said Muraskin , whose group filed a lawsuit on behalf of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ But the defendants only have to show that they [ took ] reasonable steps to comply with some set of guidelines.
” Most illnesses and deaths stemming from work end up in the workers compensation system as opposed to state or federal courts .
But Muraskin said that if the legislation became law , it would impact cases where a worker contracted coronavirus on the job and then took it home to family members who became sick and died .
The bill would also exempt businesses from being fined by the Occupational @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as they were “ generally following ” coronavirus guidelines and “ attempted to satisfy ” them .
Despite thousands of complaints , OSHA has only issued a small handful of citations related to the coronavirus so far , suggesting employers have little to fear in terms of a crackdown .
The GOP ’ s insistence that liability protections be included in the next coronavirus relief package sets up another showdown with top Democrats , who have called the proposal a giveaway to big corporations .
The two sides are also far apart on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aid for states and localities , and food assistance , among other things .
McConnell has a weaker hand in this round of negotiations than he did in March when Congress passed the $ 2.5 trillion CARES Act with nearly unanimous support , however .
Many of his GOP colleagues , for example , now say they are opposed to passing any additional stimulus , citing its impact on the deficit .
The cost of the proposed GOP package , $ 1 trillion , will likely only grow in order to win the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say .
“ It ’ s a mess , ” Sen. Josh Hawley ( R-Mo . )
said Tuesday .
“ I can ’ t figure out what this bill ’ s about ... this is not going to be the bill .
They ’ re going to go negotiate with [ House Speaker Nancy ] Pelosi .
We have no idea what the final bill will be .
”

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The latest stimulus package proposed by Senate Republicans to address the coronavirus pandemic would dramatically limit the ability of consumers and workers to sue corporations that fail to protect them from the disease.
The GOP effort to grant businesses, schools and hospitals special liability protections is so extreme that consumer and worker advocates say it would do more than just hinder access to the courts ― it would undercut one of the main incentives companies have for trying to limit the spread of the virus.
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“They will know they won’t be held accountable,” said Remington Gregg, a lawyer with the consumer advocacy group Public Citizen. “They’ll cut more corners. They’ll pack more people into meatpacking plants. This would be a disaster for assuring any sort of corporate accountability for workers and consumers and patients.”
Gregg called the proposal “pretty shameful.”
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has made a legislative priority of shielding companies from coronavirus-related lawsuits, despite the economic recovery showing signs of stalling and millions of jobless workers facing the loss of their extra unemployment benefits. The bill rolled out Monday in the Senate as part of a broader coronavirus package would give companies plenty of immunity, though it will face strong opposition in the Democratic-controlled House.
McConnell has warned of an “avalanche” of litigation stemming from the pandemic that could throttle the economy, but so far it hasn’t materialized. According to a COVID-19 complaint tracker from the law firm Hunton Andrews Kurth, around 3,800 complaints related to the pandemic have been filed in court since March. But only 257 are classified as consumer-related, and only 342 as employment-related. The largest category, with 932, involves insurance.
“There is no flood of lawsuits. It’s a figment of the imagination of Sen. McConnell and [Texas Sen. John] Cornyn and K Street,” Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) said Tuesday, referring to the authors of the bill and lobbyists in Washington.
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Nonetheless, the GOP bill would raise the bar for almost anyone trying to take a company to court over coronavirus exposure. A plaintiff would have to prove that a company was grossly negligent in their handling of the virus, and that it had failed to take even “reasonable” steps to follow government guidelines on the pandemic.
David Muraskin, a lawyer with the nonprofit Public Justice, said a company could avoid a lawsuit even if it didn’t take basic precautions. In the case of meatpacking, he noted, the federal government has not told employers they must meet certain social distancing measures ― only that they should try where possible. With few mandatory rules to follow, Muraskin said, there are not many requirements a company has to meet to demonstrate it was being reasonable.
“I would need to show that you had this almost purposeful intent to be unreasonable and prove it, and that is a very high standard,” said Muraskin, whose group filed a lawsuit on behalf of workers against the meat processor Smithfield. “But the defendants only have to show that they [took] reasonable steps to comply with some set of guidelines.”
For those who can successfully sue, the GOP bill puts a cap on noneconomic damages, like pain and suffering. It also helps companies move lawsuits out of state courts and into the federal system, an arena plaintiffs lawyers say is more business-friendly.
Most illnesses and deaths stemming from work end up in the workers compensation system as opposed to state or federal courts. But Muraskin said that if the legislation became law, it would impact cases where a worker contracted coronavirus on the job and then took it home to family members who became sick and died.
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“It shows such a lack of concern for human beings, and [lack of] an appreciation for what people on the ground are going through,” he said.
The bill would also exempt businesses from being fined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, so long as they were “generally following” coronavirus guidelines and “attempted to satisfy” them. Despite thousands of complaints, OSHA has only issued a small handful of citations related to the coronavirus so far, suggesting employers have little to fear in terms of a crackdown.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has made a priority of liability protections for corporations. OLIVIER DOULIERY via Getty Images
Debbie Berkowitz, a former OSHA official and a workplace safety expert at the National Employment Law Project, called the proposal “insane.”
“It’s essentially exempting employers from OSHA enforcement, because the [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] guidelines are so vague that they don’t really require anything,” Berkowitz said. “It’s very easy to say you complied with them. This is tying OSHA’s hands.”
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If employers can meet that low bar, the legislation also protects them from claims under several other federal labor laws ― the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Federal Labor Standards Act, which includes minimum wage and overtime protections ― in cases involving the coronavirus.
The liability protections would be in place until at least the fall of 2024.
Cornyn defended the proposed liability changes on Tuesday, saying it’s “not true” that family members of essential workers who die from coronavirus wouldn’t be able to get justice if the proposal is made into law.
“We want to make sure people can go safely back to work. … One of the disincentives for people to do that is the threat of litigation,” Cornyn told reporters at a weekly press conference.
The GOP’s insistence that liability protections be included in the next coronavirus relief package sets up another showdown with top Democrats, who have called the proposal a giveaway to big corporations. The two sides are also far apart on the extension of added unemployment benefits, aid for states and localities, and food assistance, among other things.
McConnell has a weaker hand in this round of negotiations than he did in March when Congress passed the $2.5 trillion CARES Act with nearly unanimous support, however. Many of his GOP colleagues, for example, now say they are opposed to passing any additional stimulus, citing its impact on the deficit. The cost of the proposed GOP package, $1 trillion, will likely only grow in order to win the necessary support of congressional Democrats, they say.
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“It’s a mess,” Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) said Tuesday. “I can’t figure out what this bill’s about ... this is not going to be the bill. They’re going to go negotiate with [House Speaker Nancy] Pelosi. We have no idea what the final bill will be.”
Democrats, meanwhile, accused Republicans of seeking to scuttle the negotiations by taking a hard-line stance on their liability proposal. Emerging from a meeting with top White House officials on Tuesday afternoon, Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) took aim at McConnell after he told reporters, “We’re not negotiating over liability protections.”


thehuffingtonpost--2020-07-28--How Quack Doctors And Powerful GOP Operatives Spread Misinformation To Millions

The video featured a string of right-wing talking points that criticized lockdown measures , demonized public health officials , called for schools to reopen and urged Americans not to wear face masks .
The speakers , who were all portrayed as doctors , often declared hydroxychloroquine a “ cure ” for COVID-19 .
( No legitimate medical organizations have recognized any “ cure ” for COVID-19 , and multiple clinical trials have shown hydroxychloroquine is not beneficial in treating the virus . )
One of the main characters in the clip was a religious minister and pediatrician who has previously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so at first glance , it would be easy to characterize the video as just another random conspiracy crank finding a massive audience thanks to Facebook .
But in fact , a conservative dark-money group was behind the press event that created this viral propaganda moment .
The group featured in the video , “ America ’ s Frontline Doctors , ” sprang from nowhere only days ago and appears connected to groups involved in the Save Our Country Coalition , which was a driving force behind the “ reopen ” protests in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rapid reopening , even as death tolls spike in hot spots across the country .
As Donald Trump ’ s reelection prospects dwindle amid his administration ’ s disastrous response to the pandemic , right-wing politicians and media figures have aggressively downplayed the threat of the virus and echoed Trump ’ s disproven claims about the efficacy of hydroxychloriquine , an anti-malarial drug .
This week ’ s episode , bolstered by Republican operatives , recklessly amplified by social media giants and promoted by the president himself , is a flashing warning about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and widely .
Many of the members of America ’ s Frontline Doctors have promoted fringe views that go against overwhelming medical evidence .
The group includes a pro-Trump physician who has appeared on Fox News advocating against lockdowns and an evangelical Christian minister who has promoted bizarre claims about DNA from space aliens being used in medical treatment .
Dr. Stella Immmanuel , a minister who operates a tiny walk-in medical clinic out of a strip mall in Texas , falsely claimed there was a “ cure ” for COVID-19 and suggested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ masks .
A cycle of right-wing actors spreading misinformation , then playing the role of free speech martyr , was in full effect on Tuesday morning , as multiple pro-Trump media outlets and activists promoted the video ’ s claims and condemned its removal .
Far-right One America News Network pundits , right-wing website PragerU , prominent conservative radio host Mark Levin , Trump endorsers Diamond and Silk , Media Research Center founder Brent Bozell and other conservative influencers all tweeted about the video .
At least 10 Republican congressional candidates and local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ according to an analysis by First Draft , an organization that monitors misinformation .
Facebook did not respond to HuffPost ’ s request for comment on what actions it was taking to prevent the further spread of the video or any ramifications for the accounts of those involved in its creation and dissemination , instead providing a boilerplate statement about the removal .
Facebook has become a hub for medical misinformation , anti-vaccine conspiracies and extremism during the pandemic .
Anti-lockdown groups connected to powerful conservative activists gained hundreds of thousands of followers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prosecutors say followers of the anti-government Boogaloo movement discussed plans on the site before murdering law enforcement officers .
In May , a coronavirus conspiracy video called “ Plandemic ” gained millions of views within days of its posting before mainstream media began debunking its false claims and Facebook removed the video .
Facebook ’ s response time to this week ’ s viral disinformation video was days faster than with “ Plandemic , ” but still failed to prevent it from being watched at least 17 million times from the Breitbart post @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Plandemic ” amassed prior to its removal .
Links to the video are also still available on the platform , including on the page of one of the most prominent members of the “ frontline doctors ” group .
The video capitalized on a “ watch before it ’ s taken down ” framing that lets viewers feel like they are getting in on a secret or are privy to exclusive information that will soon disappear , according to Diara J. Townes , an investigative researcher at First Draft .
When platforms eventually @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with false claims and potentially harmful medical advice , the media outlets and influencers who spread the misinformation then cry censorship and position themselves as victims .
The video contained falsehoods about hydroxychloroquine , which numerous peer-reviewed studies have shown to be ineffective in treating the virus — resulting in the FDA and National Institute of Health halting trials .
The drug , which was one of many treatments tested for use against the virus during the early stages of the pandemic , has become a right-wing fixation after Trump heavily promoted it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ claimed to take it himself .
On Tuesday afternoon , One America News founder and CEO Robert Herring tweeted that he had talked with Trump about hydroxychloroquine and provided him a list of doctors that the conspiracy-mongering outlet had interviewed .

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A seemingly obscure Capitol Hill press conference by a fringe group of self-proclaimed medical experts quickly became on Monday the most widely seen propaganda video about the coronavirus after Breitbart News livestreamed it on Facebook. The post racked up tens of millions of views across social media in a matter of hours, far surpassing the traffic of the infamous “Plandemic” disinformation video. It grabbed the attention of President Donald Trump and his son Donald Trump Jr., who had his Twitter account partially suspended for sharing a link to the video. The video featured a string of right-wing talking points that criticized lockdown measures, demonized public health officials, called for schools to reopen and urged Americans not to wear face masks. The speakers, who were all portrayed as doctors, often declared hydroxychloroquine a “cure” for COVID-19. (No legitimate medical organizations have recognized any “cure” for COVID-19, and multiple clinical trials have shown hydroxychloroquine is not beneficial in treating the virus.) One of the main characters in the clip was a religious minister and pediatrician who has previously warned against having sex with demons — so at first glance, it would be easy to characterize the video as just another random conspiracy crank finding a massive audience thanks to Facebook.
But in fact, a conservative dark-money group was behind the press event that created this viral propaganda moment. The group featured in the video, “America’s Frontline Doctors,” sprang from nowhere only days ago and appears connected to groups involved in the Save Our Country Coalition, which was a driving force behind the “reopen” protests in April that lobbied for America’s rapid reopening, even as death tolls spike in hot spots across the country.
As Donald Trump’s reelection prospects dwindle amid his administration’s disastrous response to the pandemic, right-wing politicians and media figures have aggressively downplayed the threat of the virus and echoed Trump’s disproven claims about the efficacy of hydroxychloriquine, an anti-malarial drug. This week’s episode, bolstered by Republican operatives, recklessly amplified by social media giants and promoted by the president himself, is a flashing warning about their ability to disseminate dangerous propaganda quickly and widely.
The Save Our Country Coalition
Monday’s livestreamed event featuring the America’s Frontline Doctors group was organized by Tea Party Patriots, a wealthy Republican donor-backed nonprofit that, in partnership with FreedomWorks and other right-wing dark money groups, launched the Save Our Country Coalition in April to push for America’s rapid reopening. Jenny Beth Martin, TPP’s co-founder, spoke at the conference alongside the self-proclaimed frontline doctors, urging people to call their elected officials to demand access to hydroxychloroquine.
Simone Gold, the founder of America’s Frontline Doctors, has been a go-to source for Fox News on the so-called dangers of strict coronavirus measures and has spoken at several reopen rallies.
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It’s not clear to what extent the Save Our Country Coalition was behind Monday’s press event; the America’s Frontline Doctors website discloses no affiliation to any other group, nor does it proclaim itself a 501(c) nonprofit.
But Tea Party Patriots is clearly involved in both efforts, and the Monday press conference was directly in line with SOC’s push to downplay the pandemic. FreedomWorks and Tea Party Patriots did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
One of the people spearheading SOC’s efforts is GOP operative and Trump economic adviser Stephen Moore, who last year withdrew from consideration for a job with the Federal Reserve and joined a group of entrepreneurs seeking to create a cryptocurrency central bank.
Moore had encouraged lockdown protests earlier this year, stating on a conservative YouTube program in mid-April that he heard from a “big donor in Wisconsin” who would pay the legal fees for anyone who gets arrested for rallying against stay-at-home orders at the State Capitol.
SOC’s honorary chairman is conservative economist Arthur Laffer, whom Trump awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to last year. Laffer has also mentored Larry Kudlow, Trump’s top economic adviser, reported Reuters.
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The coalition’s groups have largely been funded by prominent billionaires, including oil and gas mogul Charles Koch ― who has donated to SOC group American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) ― and Richard Uihlein, a major donor to Tea Party Patriots. Uihlein also backed Roy Moore during his Senate run in Alabama even after he was accused of sexually assaulting underage girls.
Former ALEC staffer Jerry Taylor, a co-founder of the nonpartisan Niskanen Center, condemned SOC’s efforts to undermine leading public health officials last month.
“The political actors involved with these groups are united both in their hostility to mainstream science — which they consider a conspiratorial leftist plot to destroy free market capitalism — and their superficial understanding of economics,” Taylor told The Guardian. “Fully reopening the economy will not produce an economic recovery until the coronavirus is contained and can stay contained.”
A Strange Group Of Doctors
Many of the members of America’s Frontline Doctors have promoted fringe views that go against overwhelming medical evidence. The group includes a pro-Trump physician who has appeared on Fox News advocating against lockdowns and an evangelical Christian minister who has promoted bizarre claims about DNA from space aliens being used in medical treatment. Dr. Stella Immmanuel, a minister who operates a tiny walk-in medical clinic out of a strip mall in Texas, falsely claimed there was a “cure” for COVID-19 and suggested that people did not need to wear masks.
Immanuel is the author of several books which contain homophobic and extreme views, as well as writing that the “Harry Potter” series makes society “accept demonic activity and witchcraft as normal” and that “demonic music has penetrated the souls of our children and programmed them with an anti-Christ message.”
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It is unclear how the group came together, but several have become popular in conservative circles for promoting views that align with Trump’s rhetoric on the pandemic.
Gold includes some vague details about her background in a bio on her website, which states that she “worked in Washington D.C. for the Surgeon General, as well as for the Chairman of the Labor & Human Resources Committee.”
But a spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services, which houses the Office of the Surgeon General, could not confirm that Gold worked in the office.
According to her LinkedIn page, Gold briefly served as a congressional fellow in 1997, in which she participated in “research and analysis of health policy issues” and wrote speeches for Sen. Jim Jeffords, the Republican chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee at the time.
Gold did not immediately respond to HuffPost’s request for comment.
The Right-Wing Propaganda Machine
Far-right website Breitbart News posted the video to Facebook on Monday, triggering its viral spread across other social media sites.
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A cycle of right-wing actors spreading misinformation, then playing the role of free speech martyr, was in full effect on Tuesday morning, as multiple pro-Trump media outlets and activists promoted the video’s claims and condemned its removal. Far-right One America News Network pundits, right-wing website PragerU, prominent conservative radio host Mark Levin, Trump endorsers Diamond and Silk, Media Research Center founder Brent Bozell and other conservative influencers all tweeted about the video. At least 10 Republican congressional candidates and local GOP Facebook pages also shared it, according to an analysis by First Draft, an organization that monitors misinformation.
By early Tuesday, the president and his eldest son also shared now-deleted clips on Twitter, where the video trended.
The video’s rapid growth reflected the speed at which misinformation can travel when powerful far-right media outlets and politicians amplify it, as well as the glaring inadequacies of Facebook, YouTube and Twitter to stop the spread before it reaches mass audiences.
Facebook did not respond to HuffPost’s request for comment on what actions it was taking to prevent the further spread of the video or any ramifications for the accounts of those involved in its creation and dissemination, instead providing a boilerplate statement about the removal.
“We removed the video for sharing false information about cures and treatments for COVID-19,” Andrea Vallone, a spokesperson for Facebook, told HuffPost. But as of Tuesday afternoon, large pages were still freely linking to and embedding clips on the platform.
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Facebook has become a hub for medical misinformation, anti-vaccine conspiracies and extremism during the pandemic. Anti-lockdown groups connected to powerful conservative activists gained hundreds of thousands of followers and devolved into conspiracy theories, while prosecutors say followers of the anti-government Boogaloo movement discussed plans on the site before murdering law enforcement officers. In May, a coronavirus conspiracy video called “Plandemic” gained millions of views within days of its posting before mainstream media began debunking its false claims and Facebook removed the video.
Facebook’s response time to this week’s viral disinformation video was days faster than with “Plandemic,” but still failed to prevent it from being watched at least 17 million times from the Breitbart post alone ― millions more views than “Plandemic” amassed prior to its removal. Links to the video are also still available on the platform, including on the page of one of the most prominent members of the “frontline doctors” group.
Crying Censorship
The video capitalized on a “watch before it’s taken down” framing that lets viewers feel like they are getting in on a secret or are privy to exclusive information that will soon disappear, according to Diara J. Townes, an investigative researcher at First Draft. When platforms eventually take action to remove or flag content with false claims and potentially harmful medical advice, the media outlets and influencers who spread the misinformation then cry censorship and position themselves as victims.
Donald Trump Jr.’s Twitter account was partially suspended after he shared it, leading to a Trump spokesperson condemning “Big Tech” for election interference. (Twitter told HuffPost that it did not take similar enforcement action against the president’s account because, unlike his son, he “did not Tweet the video in question, he Retweeted it.”)
Breitbart published a post claiming the video had been censored, while bragging that “in terms of viral velocity” their livestream post had outperformed content from Hillary Clinton and Kim Kardashian. Gold, the founder of America’s Frontline Doctors, also lamented on Twitter that her group’s views had been “censored and silenced.”
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In addition to accusing tech giants of silencing them, the video’s promoters have suggested that Democrats are also suppressing the use of hydroxychloroquine for political reasons to hurt Trump’s reelection chances.
The video contained falsehoods about hydroxychloroquine, which numerous peer-reviewed studies have shown to be ineffective in treating the virus — resulting in the FDA and National Institute of Health halting trials. The drug, which was one of many treatments tested for use against the virus during the early stages of the pandemic, has become a right-wing fixation after Trump heavily promoted it as a “game changer” and claimed to take it himself. On Tuesday afternoon, One America News founder and CEO Robert Herring tweeted that he had talked with Trump about hydroxychloroquine and provided him a list of doctors that the conspiracy-mongering outlet had interviewed.
Trump first mentioned hydroxychloroquine after two cryptocurrency investors created a widely circulated file on Google Docs touting the drug while falsely claiming to be associated with Stanford University School of Medicine and other medical institutions. Google removed the document for violating its policies, but not before its creators gained widespread media attention and appeared on Fox News host Tucker Carlson’s prime-time show to share false claims they had found a “cure” for the virus.
One of the cryptocurrency investors ― James Todaro, who also trained as an ophthalmologist ― is now a member of the “frontline doctors” group.


thehuffingtonpost--2020-07-28--Chainsmokers Concert Featuring Goldman Sachs CEO To Be Probed For 'Gross' Social-Distancing Violatio

Chainsmokers Concert Featuring Goldman Sachs CEO To Be Probed For 'Gross' Social-Distancing Violations, Cuomo Says

( Reuters ) - New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said on Tuesday that health authorities are investigating a weekend charity concert featuring performances by the Chainsmokers and the head of Goldman Sachs , for “ gross ” violations of public health rules aimed at fighting the spread of the coronavirus .
“ ( The ) concert that happened in the town of Southampton was just a gross violation of not only the public health rules , it was a gross violation of common sense , ” Cuomo said at his daily briefing , calling it “ disrespectful to fellow New @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Health will investigate local officials ’ oversight of the event , which took place on Saturday in the affluent beach community on the east end of Long Island , and how security workers and event organizers enforced rules during the “ drive-in ” concert .
The event billed as “ Safe & Sound ” , was attended by concert-goers in about 600 cars , some of whom paid up to $ 25,000 for parking spaces .
Some videos posted to social media appear to show people gathered in close proximity around the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in their allotted space and leave only to use restrooms .
The organizers , who are with the groups In The Know Experiences and Invisible Noise , said the videos were misleading and do not accurately depict the entire event .
They said in a statement that they worked with state and local health officials to implement the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ’ s guidelines , that all attendees were screened for fevers before entering , and that they “ made best efforts ” to follow New York ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ majority of the audience appeared to follow the rules , but he ’ s troubled that some violated them and put themselves and others at risk , ” Siewart said in an emailed statement .
New York was the early epicenter of the U.S. coronavirus outbreak and has recorded more COVID-19 deaths than any other U.S. state .
Profits from the event will go to several local charities , according to organizers .

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(Reuters) - New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said on Tuesday that health authorities are investigating a weekend charity concert featuring performances by the Chainsmokers and the head of Goldman Sachs, for “gross” violations of public health rules aimed at fighting the spread of the coronavirus.
“(The) concert that happened in the town of Southampton was just a gross violation of not only the public health rules, it was a gross violation of common sense,” Cuomo said at his daily briefing, calling it “disrespectful to fellow New Yorkers.”
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New York’s Department of Health will investigate local officials’ oversight of the event, which took place on Saturday in the affluent beach community on the east end of Long Island, and how security workers and event organizers enforced rules during the “drive-in” concert.
The event billed as “Safe & Sound”, was attended by concert-goers in about 600 cars, some of whom paid up to $25,000 for parking spaces.
Some videos posted to social media appear to show people gathered in close proximity around the stage. Attendees were instructed to stay in their allotted space and leave only to use restrooms.
The organizers, who are with the groups In The Know Experiences and Invisible Noise, said the videos were misleading and do not accurately depict the entire event.
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They said in a statement that they worked with state and local health officials to implement the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidelines, that all attendees were screened for fevers before entering, and that they “made best efforts” to follow New York’s social distancing rules.
Goldman Sachs Group Inc (GS.N) Chief Executive David Solomon opened the concert with an hour-long DJ set, performing under the moniker DJ D-Sol.
Bank spokesman Jake Siewart said Solomon “performed early and left before the show ended.”
“The vast majority of the audience appeared to follow the rules, but he’s troubled that some violated them and put themselves and others at risk,” Siewart said in an emailed statement.
New York was the early epicenter of the U.S. coronavirus outbreak and has recorded more COVID-19 deaths than any other U.S. state.
Cuomo, a Democrat, announced limited and phased reopenings around the state starting mid-May. Restrictions remain on large gatherings.
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thehuffingtonpost--2020-07-28--ICU Doctor Who Selflessly Cared For Hospital’s ‘Sickest Patients’ Dies Of COVID-19

The “ beloved ” chief of critical care at a Baltimore hospital died Saturday of COVID-19 after caring for the facility ’ s “ sickest patients ” during the coronavirus pandemic , according to the facility .
Dr. Joseph Costa , 56 — who a colleague likened to “ an older brother that [ staff ] admired and revered ” — was the intensive care unit chief at Mercy Medical Center .
The hospital , confirming his death , posted about him on Facebook Sunday .
“ He dedicated his life and career to caring for the sickest patients , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the hospital ’ s board of trustees , and David Maine , president and CEO , said in a joint statement .
“ When the global pandemic came down upon us , Joe selflessly continued his work on the front lines — deeply committed to serving our patients and our City during this time of great need.
” In the statement , Costa is described as “ beloved by his patients and their family members.
” “ [ He was ] known for his warm and comforting bedside manner as well as his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the statement said .
“ When he counseled our patients and families , he did so with great compassion and empathy.
” Dr , Neda Frayha , who said she worked with Costa during her residency , tweeted Monday that he was “ kind and brilliant , ” adding , “ I vividly remember being on call overnight , caring for very sick patients on the floor , & feeling so much calmer when Dr. Costa came to help.
” Dr. Costa was my attending in residency .
I vividly remember being on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patients on the floor , & feeling so much calmer when Dr. Costa came to help .
He was kind and brilliant .
This weekend he died of covid in his own ICU .
https : //t.co/5L0popNkle — Neda Frayha MD ( @ nedafrayha ) July 27 , 2020 Costa worked for Mercy for 23 years and became the chief of critical care in 2005 .
He is survived by his husband , David Hart .
The couple had been together for 28 years .
“ I keep thinking , ‘ Now there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for pandemic patients in Baltimore , ’ ” Hart told The Baltimore Sun .
Hart added that Costa ’ s colleagues held a vigil for him as he lay dying , and that he held his husband in his arms until he passed away early Saturday morning .
Maryland has had more than 85,000 cases of the coronavirus and more than 3,000 deaths , according to the Maryland Department of Health .
In July , the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that nearly 600 health care workers in the United States @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its data was incomplete .
But Lost on the Frontline , a project by the Guardian and Kaiser Health News , said various reports showed that 821 frontline health care workers in the U.S. who died of the virus .
Dr. Amy Zimmerma , a medical school classmate of Costa ’ s , told Baltimore-based WBAL , that his friend ’ s death should serve as a reminder of the severity of the virus .
“ This is real .
This was a 56-year-old healthy man .
He knew how to be careful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care of himself , and he still passed away from this disease , ” she said .
“ This could happen to anybody .
”

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The “beloved” chief of critical care at a Baltimore hospital died Saturday of COVID-19 after caring for the facility’s “sickest patients” during the coronavirus pandemic, according to the facility.
Dr. Joseph Costa, 56 — who a colleague likened to “an older brother that [staff] admired and revered” — was the intensive care unit chief at Mercy Medical Center. The hospital, confirming his death, posted about him on Facebook Sunday.
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“He dedicated his life and career to caring for the sickest patients,” Sister Helen Amos, head of the hospital’s board of trustees, and David Maine, president and CEO, said in a joint statement. “When the global pandemic came down upon us, Joe selflessly continued his work on the front lines — deeply committed to serving our patients and our City during this time of great need.”
In the statement, Costa is described as “beloved by his patients and their family members.”
“[He was] known for his warm and comforting bedside manner as well as his direct and informative communication style,” the statement said. “When he counseled our patients and families, he did so with great compassion and empathy.”
Dr, Neda Frayha, who said she worked with Costa during her residency, tweeted Monday that he was “kind and brilliant,” adding, “I vividly remember being on call overnight, caring for very sick patients on the floor, & feeling so much calmer when Dr. Costa came to help.”
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Dr. Costa was my attending in residency. I vividly remember being on call overnight, caring for very sick patients on the floor, & feeling so much calmer when Dr. Costa came to help. He was kind and brilliant. This weekend he died of covid in his own ICU. https://t.co/5L0popNkle — Neda Frayha MD (@nedafrayha) July 27, 2020
Costa worked for Mercy for 23 years and became the chief of critical care in 2005. He is survived by his husband, David Hart. The couple had been together for 28 years.
“I keep thinking, ‘Now there is one less ICU doctor to care for pandemic patients in Baltimore,’” Hart told The Baltimore Sun.
Hart added that Costa’s colleagues held a vigil for him as he lay dying, and that he held his husband in his arms until he passed away early Saturday morning.
Maryland has had more than 85,000 cases of the coronavirus and more than 3,000 deaths, according to the Maryland Department of Health.
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In July, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that nearly 600 health care workers in the United States had died of COVID-19, adding that its data was incomplete. But Lost on the Frontline, a project by the Guardian and Kaiser Health News, said various reports showed that 821 frontline health care workers in the U.S. who died of the virus.
Dr. Amy Zimmerman, a medical school classmate of Costa’s, told Baltimore-based WBAL that her friend’s death should serve as a reminder of the severity of the virus.


thehuffingtonpost--2020-07-28--What People With Bipolar Disorder Want You To Know

Kanye West disclosed he was diagnosed with a mental health condition in 2018 and revealed through some of his lyrics on his album “ Ye ” that he was living with bipolar disorder .
In the past few weeks , West ’ s mental health has become more of a focus following his Twitter storms , a recent rally in South Carolina ostensibly promoting his presidential candidacy and a statement released by his wife , Kim Kardashian West .
“ Bipolar disorder can indeed be an exceptionally complex condition with notable symptoms .
Thus , one might feel especially reticent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in their immediate and extended circles , ” Hillary Goldsher , a clinical psychologist in Beverly Hills , told HuffPost .
“ For the person doing the revealing , it is vulnerable and anxiety-provoking .
Most people have potent preconceived notions about bipolar disorder .
Accordingly , a diagnosed individual is understandably afraid the disclosure will result in a plethora of stigmas leveled at them.
” The hateful , misogynistic and racist comments West has made in recent weeks can not be condoned ; hate and bigotry are not symptoms of mental illness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has recently been discussed in articles and in Twitter posts affects more than just celebrities who often have access to quality health care : It impacts the millions of other people with bipolar disorder trying to navigate stigma on a daily basis .
Bipolar disorder is more than just a typical mood swing .
“ Medication and therapy help , but it ’ s a delicate balance that requires adjustment sometimes , ” said Megan Hall , 34 , the host of The Inspired Women Podcast .
“ I am doing the best @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but no amount of willpower or positive thoughts will rid me of this disorder .
The best thing people can do is have compassion , understanding and support me in doing the things that help me stay stable.
” Bipolar disorder has a number of underlying causes .
“ I wish more people would understand this illness as if it were visible .
There are times my wiring ‘ shorts out , ’ ” said Emily , 28 , a soon-to-be student whose name has been changed to maintain privacy about her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ altered , and have no control outside of [ receiving ] professional mental and medical help.
” No one-size-fits-all model can treat and manage bipolar disorder .
“ Not every person with bipolar disorder has the same symptoms , and treatments work differently for everyone , ” said Jinx , 32 , a stripper whose name has been changed for privacy reasons .
“ I had tried various medications for years , but I ’ ve been most stable for the longest period of time with only regular therapy and chiropractor appointments , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mental Illness , people with bipolar disorder may benefit from different types of therapies .
For example , some may need dialectical behavioral therapy to learn how to regulate their emotions , while others may need structured group psychoeducation ( therapeutic support groups ) to feel less isolated .
People may also utilize an array of mental health medications and holistic methods , as well as a combination of all of the above .
A misconception prevails that people with bipolar disorder constantly cycle between manic and depressive episodes .
Some may actually @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a long period of time .
Research conducted among people with bipolar I disorder found that , on average , their mood episodes lasted 13 weeks , and they experienced one or two cycles a year .
Being a present partner or friend can be hard during an episode .
“ I will be responsive to messages , I will take care of you , I will show up physically and emotionally .
However , sometimes , I won ’ t respond as quickly , ” said Rose , 27 , a graduate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she could talk freely about her diagnosis .
“ Just like you get the flu , sometimes my brain gets sick , and it just needs some time.
” According to the American Psychological Association , studies have found that consistent routines may help to decrease the symptoms of bipolar disorder .
This means many people must take daily steps to cope with their mental illness — which may include sacrificing participating in certain activities that could trigger symptoms .
“ I have built routine and structure into my days to keep me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breaking from this routine even once can trigger a long spiral of despair , ” explained Alex H. , 30 , a financial controller for a tech startup whose last name has been withheld for privacy reasons .
Listening to the experiences of people who have bipolar disorder can foster empathy and understanding .
And your reaction to a celebrity ’ s mental health can even signify to a loved one whether it ’ s safe or not to reveal their own diagnosis .
So , when speaking about bipolar disorder , remember @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If you or someone you know needs help , call 1-800-273-8255 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline .
You can also text HOME to 741-741 for free , 24-hour support from the Crisis Text Line .
Outside of the U.S. , please visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention for a database of resources .

An estimated 2.8% of the adults in the U.S. have bipolar disorder in a given year, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Moreover, 2019 statistics suggest that bipolar disorder affects around 45 million people worldwide. Still, bipolar disorder remains obscured by misconceptions.
“Bipolar disorder can indeed be an exceptionally complex condition with notable symptoms. Thus, one might feel especially reticent to share this specific diagnosis with those in their immediate and extended circles,” Hillary Goldsher, a clinical psychologist in Beverly Hills, told HuffPost. “For the person doing the revealing, it is vulnerable and anxiety-provoking. Most people have potent preconceived notions about bipolar disorder. Accordingly, a diagnosed individual is understandably afraid the disclosure will result in a plethora of stigmas leveled at them.”
HuffPost spoke to people with bipolar disorder about what they wish others understood, from treatment to its impact on relationships:
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Bipolar disorder is more than just a typical mood swing.
As the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance details, bipolar disorder is characterized by substantial shifts in one’s moods — typically going from extreme “highs” to “lows.” These include manic episodes, seen typically in bipolar I disorder, which can lead to high energy, excessive optimism, impulsivity, reckless behavior, anger, grandiosity, and, in some cases, delusions or hallucinations.
Those with bipolar II disorder typically experience hypomanic episodes, which is described as a less intense version of mania. Oppositely, depressive episodes include symptoms such as sadness, crying spells, lethargy, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, changes in sleep and appetite, and suicidal thoughts. According to the American Psychiatric Association, people with cyclothymic disorder, a milder form of bipolar disorder, experience these episodes to a lesser extent.
While there are a number of treatments that can work to manage both depressive and manic episodes, no cure-all exists for symptoms that is guaranteed to last throughout one’s lifetime.
“Medication and therapy help, but it’s a delicate balance that requires adjustment sometimes,” said Megan Hall, 34, the host of The Inspired Women Podcast. “I am doing the best I can to heal and remain stable, but no amount of willpower or positive thoughts will rid me of this disorder. The best thing people can do is have compassion, understanding and support me in doing the things that help me stay stable.”
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The Good Brigade via Getty Images
Bipolar disorder has a number of underlying causes.
Goldsher explained that bipolar disorder “typically emerges due to a combination of genetics and environment.” A long-term study published in 2017 revealed that childhood trauma, sleep patterns, cognitive functioning, personality traits, and certain genes all impact a person’s likelihood of having bipolar disorder.
“I wish more people would understand this illness as if it were visible. There are times my wiring ‘shorts out,’” said Emily, 28, a soon-to-be student whose name has been changed to maintain privacy about her condition. “I am simply chemically altered, and have no control outside of [receiving] professional mental and medical help.”
The episodes associated with bipolar disorder are anything but a choice.
No one-size-fits-all model can treat and manage bipolar disorder.
“Not every person with bipolar disorder has the same symptoms, and treatments work differently for everyone,” said Jinx, 32, a stripper whose name has been changed for privacy reasons. “I had tried various medications for years, but I’ve been most stable for the longest period of time with only regular therapy and chiropractor appointments,”
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, people with bipolar disorder may benefit from different types of therapies. For example, some may need dialectical behavioral therapy to learn how to regulate their emotions, while others may need structured group psychoeducation (therapeutic support groups) to feel less isolated. People may also utilize an array of mental health medications and holistic methods, as well as a combination of all of the above.
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Prostock-Studio via Getty Images
Bipolar episodes vary.
A misconception prevails that people with bipolar disorder constantly cycle between manic and depressive episodes. Some may actually experience just one of these episodes for a long period of time. Research conducted among people with bipolar I disorder found that, on average, their mood episodes lasted 13 weeks, and they experienced one or two cycles a year.
Given the unpredictably of cycles, people with bipolar disorder often have to be particularly mindful of their emotions to ensure that they can recognize any oncoming symptoms. Stevie Mora, 25, a laboratory client relations specialist, said that this leads to second-guessing “almost every emotion.”
“Even on our very ‘best’ days, we’re still struggling,” Mora said.
Being a present partner or friend can be hard during an episode.
Even if someone has successfully managed their bipolar disorder for years, being in the midst of a depressive, manic or hypomanic episode can make it challenging to remain present and attentive in relationships.
“I will be responsive to messages, I will take care of you, I will show up physically and emotionally. However, sometimes, I won’t respond as quickly,” said Rose, 27, a graduate student whose name has been changed so she could talk freely about her diagnosis. “Just like you get the flu, sometimes my brain gets sick, and it just needs some time.”
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Managing bipolar disorder is a daily task.
According to the American Psychological Association, studies have found that consistent routines may help to decrease the symptoms of bipolar disorder. This means many people must take daily steps to cope with their mental illness — which may include sacrificing participating in certain activities that could trigger symptoms.
“I have built routine and structure into my days to keep me healthy, alive and thriving, and breaking from this routine even once can trigger a long spiral of despair,” explained Alex H., 30, a financial controller for a tech startup whose last name has been withheld for privacy reasons.
“While I may not agree to plans that involve breaking my routines, please understand that it’s not a lack of love for friends and family, but a decision that is quite literally keeping me alive,” she said.
Maskot via Getty Images
A strong support system can greatly affect recovery.
For people with bipolar disorder — or any chronic illness, for that matter — having a strong support system to rely on when symptoms arise is invaluable.
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Deborah Ontiveros, 39, a mental health advocate, said that “for many years, I felt alone, ashamed and confused at times, trying to make sense of my behaviors during depressive, manic and mixed episodes.”
However, after finding a partner who took the time to learn more about her disorder, she said she felt more emotionally supported and better equipped to navigate even her worst episodes.
Supporting someone with bipolar disorder can require seeking out mental health experts and educating yourself further about the mental illness.
“Stigma and judgment ... typically comes from ignorance, fear or an inherent lack of cultivated compassion,” Goldsher said.
Listening to the experiences of people who have bipolar disorder can foster empathy and understanding. And your reaction to a celebrity’s mental health can even signify to a loved one whether it’s safe or not to reveal their own diagnosis. So, when speaking about bipolar disorder, remember that your words have an impact.
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thehuffingtonpost--2020-07-28--New Study May Help 'Predict' Who Will Get Severe COVID-19 Cases

A new study found that COVID-19 symptoms come in six different “ clusters , ” which may help predict which patients are more at risk and in need of respiratory support .
For the study , researchers used a machine learning algorithm to analyze data from more than 1,600 patients in the U.S. and the U.K. who had tested positive for COVID-19 and had regularly logged their symptoms on the Zoe health app in March and April .
Researchers then tested the algorithm by using it on an additional 1,047 patients in the U.S. , the U.K. and Sweden , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ throughout May .
“ Although continuous cough , fever and loss of smell ( anosmia ) are usually highlighted as the three key symptoms of COVID-19 , data gathered from app users shows that people can experience a wide range of different symptoms , including headaches , muscle pains , fatigue , diarrhea , confusion , loss of appetite , shortness of breath and more , ” notes a statement published on the Zoe app .
“ The progression and outcomes also vary significantly between people , ranging from mild flulike symptoms or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disease.
” The researchers also looked at which clusters of patients were more likely to require ventilators or supplemental oxygen and found that patients in clusters 6 , 5 , and 4 ( 19.8 % , 9.9 % , and 8.6 % , respectively ) needed the most respiratory support .
But “ only 1.5 % of people with cluster 1 , 4.4 % of people with cluster 2 , and 3.3 % of people with cluster 3 COVID-19 required breathing support , ” according to a statement by King ’ s College @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with scientists at Massachusetts General Hospital , provided input during the development of the app for the study .
The study authors suggested that these results “ could be used to monitor at-risk patients and predict medical resource requirements days before they are required , ” adding , for example , that “ patients who fall into cluster 5 or 6 at day 5 of the illness have a significant risk of hospitalization and respiratory support and may benefit from home pulse oximetry with daily phone calls from their general practice to ensure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ point in the course of their illness.
” Study co-author Claire Steves , a clinical senior lecturer at King ’ s College London , tells Yahoo Life : “ This study helps us to see the different ways COVID can present .
It alerts us to symptoms which are particularly worrying in the first few days if someone has a positive test — like confusion , abdominal symptoms and severe fatigue .
More importantly , if we did start to monitor the symptoms in the first five days , we could get help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ severe disease path earlier , and perhaps prevent them getting really sick.
” Linda Anegawa , an internist with virtual primary care platform PlushCare , tells Yahoo Life that the study results are “ interesting because , up until now , we have mostly focused on patient characteristics , which [ put ] people at risk for severe disease .
This is the first instance I ’ ve seen where actual symptoms are correlated with disease severity.
” She adds : “ While further research is needed , identifying the six clusters now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are seeing and allocate resources toward those patients who are felt more likely to be severely affected .
This is critical since resources are scarce and doctors are spread thin , especially in surge areas.
” Anegawa also says that being able to identify which cluster corresponds with your symptoms “ may help patients seek care earlier if they find their symptoms put them into one of the high-risk ” categories .
Matthew Exline , a pulmonary and critical care specialist at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center , tells Yahoo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ helpful , ” including for patients with mild coronavirus symptoms .
“ A lot of patients , when they ’ re told they have COVID , there ’ s obviously a lot of anxiety .
Appropriately , we focus on what ’ s the worst-case scenario — the dangers if you end up on a ventilator , things like that.
” But knowing you ’ re in a low-risk cluster could help ease that anxiety .
Doctors being able to say , “ ‘ Hey , a lot of people with your type @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ medical ] help ’ is reassuring to patients and is very helpful , ” he says .
Both Exline and Anegawa point out that the study , however , hasn ’ t been peer-reviewed .
Anegawa also expressed some concern about trying to group patients in clusters : “ I have seen many patients who do seem to fluctuate between multiple symptom clusters or who have characteristics of multiple clusters — for example , a patient with diarrhea only .
How would we classify these types of individuals ?
It ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Exline says that using an app so COVID-19 patients can log their daily symptoms is “ a great idea , ” adding : “ I think it ’ s an awesome use of the data .
One of the things that ’ s really a challenge with COVID research is [ that scientists have ] so many questions and there ’ s just a finite number of people to try to answer those questions .
There ’ s difficulty in human beings making hundreds of phone calls [ to collect data on patients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enter their symptoms as it ’ s happening , you can get a lot of data .
”

LOADING ERROR LOADING
A new study found that COVID-19 symptoms come in six different “clusters,” which may help predict which patients are more at risk and in need of respiratory support.
For the study, researchers used a machine learning algorithm to analyze data from more than 1,600 patients in the U.S. and the U.K. who had tested positive for COVID-19 and had regularly logged their symptoms on the Zoe health app in March and April. Researchers then tested the algorithm by using it on an additional 1,047 patients in the U.S., the U.K. and Sweden, who entered their symptoms on the app throughout May.
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The study identified six clusters of symptoms:
Cluster 1 (“flulike” with no fever): Headache, loss of smell, muscle pains, cough, sore throat, chest pain, no fever
Cluster 2 (“flulike” with fever): Headache, loss of smell, cough, sore throat, hoarseness, fever, loss of appetite
Cluster 3 (gastrointestinal): Headache, loss of smell, loss of appetite, diarrhea, sore throat, chest pain, no cough
Cluster 4 (severe level one, fatigue): Headache, loss of smell, cough, fever, hoarseness, chest pain, fatigue
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Cluster 5 (severe level two, confusion): Headache, loss of smell, loss of appetite, cough, fever, hoarseness, sore throat, chest pain, fatigue, confusion, muscle pain
Cluster 6 (severe level three, abdominal and respiratory): Headache, loss of smell, loss of appetite, cough, fever, hoarseness, sore throat, chest pain, fatigue, confusion, muscle pain, shortness of breath, diarrhea, abdominal pain
David Sacks via Getty Images
“Although continuous cough, fever and loss of smell (anosmia) are usually highlighted as the three key symptoms of COVID-19, data gathered from app users shows that people can experience a wide range of different symptoms, including headaches, muscle pains, fatigue, diarrhea, confusion, loss of appetite, shortness of breath and more,” notes a statement published on the Zoe app. “The progression and outcomes also vary significantly between people, ranging from mild flulike symptoms or a simple rash to severe or fatal disease.”
The researchers also looked at which clusters of patients were more likely to require ventilators or supplemental oxygen and found that patients in clusters 6, 5, and 4 (19.8%, 9.9%, and 8.6%, respectively) needed the most respiratory support. But “only 1.5% of people with cluster 1, 4.4% of people with cluster 2, and 3.3% of people with cluster 3 COVID-19 required breathing support,” according to a statement by King’s College of London, whose researchers, along with scientists at Massachusetts General Hospital, provided input during the development of the app for the study.
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The study authors suggested that these results “could be used to monitor at-risk patients and predict medical resource requirements days before they are required,” adding, for example, that “patients who fall into cluster 5 or 6 at day 5 of the illness have a significant risk of hospitalization and respiratory support and may benefit from home pulse oximetry with daily phone calls from their general practice to ensure that hospital attendance occurs at the appropriate point in the course of their illness.”
Study co-author Claire Steves, a clinical senior lecturer at King’s College London, tells Yahoo Life: “This study helps us to see the different ways COVID can present. It alerts us to symptoms which are particularly worrying in the first few days if someone has a positive test — like confusion, abdominal symptoms and severe fatigue. More importantly, if we did start to monitor the symptoms in the first five days, we could get help to those that are on a more severe disease path earlier, and perhaps prevent them getting really sick.”
Linda Anegawa, an internist with virtual primary care platform PlushCare, tells Yahoo Life that the study results are “interesting because, up until now, we have mostly focused on patient characteristics, which [put] people at risk for severe disease. This is the first instance I’ve seen where actual symptoms are correlated with disease severity.”
She adds: “While further research is needed, identifying the six clusters now can start to help doctors risk-stratify patients they are seeing and allocate resources toward those patients who are felt more likely to be severely affected. This is critical since resources are scarce and doctors are spread thin, especially in surge areas.”
Anegawa also says that being able to identify which cluster corresponds with your symptoms “may help patients seek care earlier if they find their symptoms put them into one of the high-risk” categories.
Advertisement
Matthew Exline, a pulmonary and critical care specialist at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, tells Yahoo Life that the research is “very helpful,” including for patients with mild coronavirus symptoms. “A lot of patients, when they’re told they have COVID, there’s obviously a lot of anxiety. Appropriately, we focus on what’s the worst-case scenario — the dangers if you end up on a ventilator, things like that.” But knowing you’re in a low-risk cluster could help ease that anxiety. Doctors being able to say, “‘Hey, a lot of people with your type of symptoms end up not needing much [medical] help’ is reassuring to patients and is very helpful,” he says.
Both Exline and Anegawa point out that the study, however, hasn’t been peer-reviewed. Anegawa also expressed some concern about trying to group patients in clusters: “I have seen many patients who do seem to fluctuate between multiple symptom clusters or who have characteristics of multiple clusters — for example, a patient with diarrhea only. How would we classify these types of individuals? It’s a tricky question.”
But overall, Exline says that using an app so COVID-19 patients can log their daily symptoms is “a great idea,” adding: “I think it’s an awesome use of the data. One of the things that’s really a challenge with COVID research is [that scientists have] so many questions and there’s just a finite number of people to try to answer those questions. There’s difficulty in human beings making hundreds of phone calls [to collect data on patients]. By asking willing people to enter their symptoms as it’s happening, you can get a lot of data.”
Anegawa agrees, adding: “In this era where virtual medicine is rapidly growing, health apps are a great way to help patients gather data for their telemedicine visits. In the future, I anticipate apps helping to screen patients with symptoms, again to save time and resources.”


thehuffingtonpost--2020-07-28--Dogs Are Being Trained To Sniff Out COVID-19 With Stunning Accuracy

Getting tested for COVID-19 isn ’ t exactly the most comfortable thing in the world .
The viral test can determine whether you have a current infection — you can get one at your nearest assessment centre — but it requires a pretty invasive process , during which you get a swab shoved up your nose .
“ That test is uncomfortable , ” artist Drake said to his dad , on Instagram Live , after getting his own done .
( The results came back negative . )
“ They put that Q-tip all inside your thoughts and s―t.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ get tested for the coronavirus right now is through bloodwork , but even this antibody test can ’ t necessarily determine whether you have a current infection .
It ’ s more accurate at revealing prior infections .
Researchers are well aware of how unpleasant it is to get a foreign object planted in your nasal cavity , and they ’ ve been trying to find a more agreeable way to test people for COVID-19 ― one that doesn ’ t require putting a Q-tip into our thoughts .
And as it turns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rather sweet alternative : dogs .
Researchers in the UK have been training dogs to detect the virus — solely off of scent .
“ When you have a disease , your body odor changes , ” James Logan , head of the Department of Disease Control at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , told CBC News Kids .
“ And dogs are an excellent example of being able to detect smells and also learn those smells .
That ’ s what we ’ re aiming to do with COVID-19.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of training , the trained Cocker Spaniels and Labradors would be able to identify infected people just by walking past them .
If they smelled the virus , they would stop in their tracks and look toward the person they think is infected .
Researchers think this would be especially useful for people who are asymptomatic , and hope to deploy the dogs in public places like airports , train stations and stadiums .
And there would be no fear of transmitting the virus to the dogs , since , unlike cats , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
While researchers in London have taken the eight-to-10 week training approach , dogs in Germany seem capable of doing the job after just a few days of training .
A study conducted by the University Veterinary Medicine Hannover found dogs from the armed forces , who were trained for five days , were able to identify the coronavirus with a 94 % success rate after sniffing the saliva of more than 1,000 people , both healthy and infected .
“ We think this works because metabolic processes in the body of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ professor Maren Von Kockritz-Blickwede said in a YouTube video about the project .
“ We think that the dogs are able to detect a specific smell of the metabolic changes that occur in those patients.
” Dogs have an excellent sense of smell , obviously , that far surpasses the senses we possess as human beings .
It ’ s not just that they can smell other dogs by sniffing trees outside .
Their noses are about 1,000 times more sensitive than ours , and they ’ ve been trained to detect about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , prostate cancer , diabetes and Parkinson ’ s disease , so it makes sense that they ’ d be able to detect COVID-19 .
More information will come soon .
So until then , we ’ ll have to deal with the discomfort of getting our thoughts swabbed by Q-tips .

Klaus Vedfelt via Getty Images Researchers are hopeful they can train dogs to detect COVID-19.
Getting tested for COVID-19 isn’t exactly the most comfortable thing in the world. The viral test can determine whether you have a current infection — you can get one at your nearest assessment centre — but it requires a pretty invasive process, during which you get a swab shoved up your nose.
“That test is uncomfortable,” artist Drake said to his dad, on Instagram Live, after getting his own done. (The results came back negative.) “They put that Q-tip all inside your thoughts and s―t.”
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The only other way you can get tested for the coronavirus right now is through bloodwork, but even this antibody test can’t necessarily determine whether you have a current infection. It’s more accurate at revealing prior infections.
Drake tells his dad he got tested for coronavirus and the results came back negative. pic.twitter.com/mOj8KmdQ8b — Pigeons & Planes (@PigsAndPlans) March 21, 2020
Researchers are well aware of how unpleasant it is to get a foreign object planted in your nasal cavity, and they’ve been trying to find a more agreeable way to test people for COVID-19 ― one that doesn’t require putting a Q-tip into our thoughts. And as it turns out, there eventually might be a rather sweet alternative: dogs. Researchers in the UK have been training dogs to detect the virus — solely off of scent.
“When you have a disease, your body odor changes,” James Logan, head of the Department of Disease Control at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, told CBC News Kids. “And dogs are an excellent example of being able to detect smells and also learn those smells. That’s what we’re aiming to do with COVID-19.”
Advertisement
After about eight to 10 weeks of training, the trained Cocker Spaniels and Labradors would be able to identify infected people just by walking past them. If they smelled the virus, they would stop in their tracks and look toward the person they think is infected.
Researchers think this would be especially useful for people who are asymptomatic, and hope to deploy the dogs in public places like airports, train stations and stadiums. And there would be no fear of transmitting the virus to the dogs, since, unlike cats, they’re immune to contracting COVID-19.
It’s not just the UK that’s testing this out.
While researchers in London have taken the eight-to-10 week training approach, dogs in Germany seem capable of doing the job after just a few days of training. A study conducted by the University Veterinary Medicine Hannover found dogs from the armed forces, who were trained for five days, were able to identify the coronavirus with a 94% success rate after sniffing the saliva of more than 1,000 people, both healthy and infected.
“We think this works because metabolic processes in the body of a diseased patient is completely changed,” professor Maren Von Kockritz-Blickwede said in a YouTube video about the project. “We think that the dogs are able to detect a specific smell of the metabolic changes that occur in those patients.”
Dogs have an excellent sense of smell, obviously, that far surpasses the senses we possess as human beings. It’s not just that they can smell other dogs by sniffing trees outside. Their noses are about 1,000 times more sensitive than ours, and they’ve been trained to detect about a dozen human diseases, like malaria, prostate cancer, diabetes and Parkinson’s disease, so it makes sense that they’d be able to detect COVID-19.
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Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine are also looking into training dogs to sniff out COVID-19 in patients.
More information will come soon. So until then, we’ll have to deal with the discomfort of getting our thoughts swabbed by Q-tips.


thehuffingtonpost--2020-07-28--Fauci Responds To Trump Tweet Accusing Him Of Misleading The Public

Dr. Anthony Fauci , the nation ’ s leading expert on infectious diseases , on Tuesday denied misleading the public “ under any circumstances ” after President Donald Trump retweeted a claim that he had done so .
Fauci , appearing on ABC ’ s “ Good Morning America , ” was confronted with Trump ’ s apparent endorsement of criticism of his failure to endorse the anti-malaria drug hydroxychloroquine as a coronavirus treatment .
Trump has repeatedly touted the drug ― and claimed to be taking it himself ― although studies suggest it is ineffective and has potentially serious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has misled the American public on many issues , but in particular , on dismissing # hydroxychloroquine and calling Remdesivir the new gold standard , ” the tweet read .
Remdesivir , an anti-viral drug , has shown effectiveness in studies of some coronavirus patients .
“ I have not been misleading the American public under any circumstances , ” Fauci declared on ABC .
Dr. Anthony Fauci to @ GStephanopoulos : “ I do n't tweet .
I do n't even read them so I do n't really want to go there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my job no matter what comes out because I think it 's very important.
” https : //t.co/JgCvhTifYS pic.twitter.com/BJGIqwSjuT — Good Morning America ( @ GMA ) July 28 , 2020 When asked if he can continue to do his job as his credibility is being demeaned by the president , Fauci answered : “ I don ’ t really want to go there .
I just will continue to do my job no matter what comes out because I think that it ’ s very important .
We ’ re in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to an epidemic , a pandemic , this is what I do , this is what I ’ ve been trained for my entire professional life and I ’ ll continue to do it.
” Trump has long backed hydroxychloroquine as a potential cure and prevention for the coronavirus .
He retweeted a video endorsing the drug Monday night in the same Twitter spree in which he attacked Fauci .
The video was later removed by Twitter , Facebook and YouTube .
Facebook said it violated rules against “ false information about cures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a member of the White House coronavirus task force , has often contradicted Trump ’ s pronouncements during the pandemic .
The scientist has urged face masks and social distancing , and has cautioned against reopening the economy before the pandemic is under control .
Trump until recently refused to wear a face mask , pressed states and schools to reopen , and held indoor campaign rallies .
Trump last week said Fauci is “ a little bit of an alarmist ” and accused him of making mistakes earlier in the pandemic , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The president also has said he likes Fauci personally .

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Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s leading expert on infectious diseases, on Tuesday denied misleading the public “under any circumstances” after President Donald Trump retweeted a claim that he had done so.
Fauci, appearing on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” was confronted with Trump’s apparent endorsement of criticism of his failure to endorse the anti-malaria drug hydroxychloroquine as a coronavirus treatment. Trump has repeatedly touted the drug ― and claimed to be taking it himself ― although studies suggest it is ineffective and has potentially serious side effects.
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“Dr. Fauci has misled the American public on many issues, but in particular, on dismissing #hydroxychloroquine and calling Remdesivir the new gold standard,” the tweet read. Remdesivir, an anti-viral drug, has shown effectiveness in studies of some coronavirus patients.
“I have not been misleading the American public under any circumstances,” Fauci declared on ABC.
Dr. Anthony Fauci to @GStephanopoulos: “I don't tweet. I don't even read them so I don't really want to go there. I just will continue to do my job no matter what comes out because I think it's very important.” https://t.co/JgCvhTifYS pic.twitter.com/BJGIqwSjuT — Good Morning America (@GMA) July 28, 2020
When asked if he can continue to do his job as his credibility is being demeaned by the president, Fauci answered: “I don’t really want to go there. I just will continue to do my job no matter what comes out because I think that it’s very important. We’re in the middle of a crisis. With regard to an epidemic, a pandemic, this is what I do, this is what I’ve been trained for my entire professional life and I’ll continue to do it.”
Trump has long backed hydroxychloroquine as a potential cure and prevention for the coronavirus. He retweeted a video endorsing the drug Monday night in the same Twitter spree in which he attacked Fauci.
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The video was later removed by Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. Facebook said it violated rules against “false information about cures and treatments for COVID-19.”
Fauci, a member of the White House coronavirus task force, has often contradicted Trump’s pronouncements during the pandemic. The scientist has urged face masks and social distancing, and has cautioned against reopening the economy before the pandemic is under control. Trump until recently refused to wear a face mask, pressed states and schools to reopen, and held indoor campaign rallies.


thehuffingtonpost--2020-07-28--Donald Trump Jr.’s Twitter Account Partially Suspended Over COVID-19 Misinformation

Twitter has partially suspended the account of Donald Trump Jr. , the president ’ s eldest son , because he shared a viral video containing misinformation about the coronavirus .
According to a screenshot shared by Trump ’ s spokesperson , Andrew Surabian , Twitter sent Trump a notice that the company had “ temporarily limited ” some of his “ account features.
” “ It is beyond the pale for Twitter to silence someone for sharing the views of medical professionals who happen to dissent with their anti-Hydroxychloroquine narrative , ” Surabian said in a statement .
Many public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the nation ’ s top infectious disease doctor and a member of the White House ’ s coronavirus task force — have said there ’ s no evidence to suggest hydroxychloroquine is effective in treating COVID-19 .
The Food and Drug Administration has warned against using hydroxychloroquine to treat COVID-19 due to a risk of heart rhythm problems .
The partial suspension of Trump ’ s account was in response to a tweet he sent Monday evening that shared a video of doctors alleging that hydroxychloroquine can cure or prevent COVID-19 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] watch !
!
!
So different from the narrative that everyone is running with , ” Trump wrote in his tweet .
In its notice to Trump , Twitter stated that he violated the platform ’ s rules by “ spreading misleading and potentially harmful information related to COVID-19.
” “ Under this policy , we require the removal of content that may pose a risk to people ’ s health , including content that goes directly against guidance from authoritative sources of global and local public health information , ” the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shared the video on Twitter on Monday as part of a series of retweets he did promoting hydroxychloroquine as a COVID-19 treatment .
Asked why the president ’ s account was not partially suspended , Twitter said : “ The President did not Tweet the video in question , he Retweeted it .
Therefore , the account owner of the Tweet he Retweeted will face enforcement action.
” Twitter , Facebook and YouTube have pulled the video , which was originally shared by right-wing news site Breitbart and features four people who identified @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Supreme Court building .
The event , dubbed the “ White Coat Summit , ” was organized and sponsored by the Tea Party Patriots , a political group backed by wealthy Republican donors .
One speaker , Dr. Stella Immanuel , said face masks weren ’ t necessary to prevent the spread of the virus and alleged she had successfully treated hundreds of COVID-19 patients with hydroxychloroquine .
She has also claimed that people who have sexual dreams about demons and witches may develop gynecological problems , and that extraterrestrial DNA is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Daily Beast reported Tuesday .

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Twitter has partially suspended the account of Donald Trump Jr., the president’s eldest son, because he shared a viral video containing misinformation about the coronavirus.
Trump’s account will have limited functionality for 12 hours after Trump violated the platform’s rules, Twitter said in a statement Tuesday.
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According to a screenshot shared by Trump’s spokesperson, Andrew Surabian, Twitter sent Trump a notice that the company had “temporarily limited” some of his “account features.”
“It is beyond the pale for Twitter to silence someone for sharing the views of medical professionals who happen to dissent with their anti-Hydroxychloroquine narrative,” Surabian said in a statement.
Many public health officials — including Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease doctor and a member of the White House’s coronavirus task force — have said there’s no evidence to suggest hydroxychloroquine is effective in treating COVID-19.
The Food and Drug Administration has warned against using hydroxychloroquine to treat COVID-19 due to a risk of heart rhythm problems.
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BREAKING: @Twitter & @jack have suspended @DonaldJTrumpJr for posting a viral video of medical doctors talking about Hydroxychloroquine.
Big Tech is the biggest threat to free expression in America today & they're continuing to engage in open election interference - full stop. pic.twitter.com/7dJbauq43O — Andrew Surabian (@Surabees) July 28, 2020
The partial suspension of Trump’s account was in response to a tweet he sent Monday evening that shared a video of doctors alleging that hydroxychloroquine can cure or prevent COVID-19.
“This is a much [sic] watch!!! So different from the narrative that everyone is running with,” Trump wrote in his tweet.
The tweet has since been removed by Twitter.
In its notice to Trump, Twitter stated that he violated the platform’s rules by “spreading misleading and potentially harmful information related to COVID-19.”
“Under this policy, we require the removal of content that may pose a risk to people’s health, including content that goes directly against guidance from authoritative sources of global and local public health information,” the notice stated.
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President Donald Trump also shared the video on Twitter on Monday as part of a series of retweets he did promoting hydroxychloroquine as a COVID-19 treatment.
Asked why the president’s account was not partially suspended, Twitter said: “The President did not Tweet the video in question, he Retweeted it. Therefore, the account owner of the Tweet he Retweeted will face enforcement action.”
Twitter, Facebook and YouTube have pulled the video, which was originally shared by right-wing news site Breitbart and features four people who identified themselves as doctors speaking in front of the Supreme Court building. The event, dubbed the “White Coat Summit,” was organized and sponsored by the Tea Party Patriots, a political group backed by wealthy Republican donors.
One speaker, Dr. Stella Immanuel, said face masks weren’t necessary to prevent the spread of the virus and alleged she had successfully treated hundreds of COVID-19 patients with hydroxychloroquine.
She has also claimed that people who have sexual dreams about demons and witches may develop gynecological problems, and that extraterrestrial DNA is being used in medical treatments, The Daily Beast reported Tuesday.


thehuffingtonpost--2020-07-28--Trump Officials Insist Lafayette Crackdown Had 'Zero' To Do With Trump Photo-Op

At separate congressional hearings on Tuesday , two Trump administration officials insisted that the violent police crackdown against protesters at Lafayette Park in Washington , D.C. , on June 1 was about erecting a fence rather than making way for President Donald Trump to pose for photos outside a nearby church .
Acting U.S. Park Police Chief Gregory Monahan told members of the House Natural Resources Committee that park police faced “ unprecedented and sustained ” violence from protesters in the days before June 1 and acted with “ tremendous restraint ” to de-escalate the situation .
Officers did not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ House or any administration official , and there was “ zero correlation between our operation and the president ’ s visit to the church , ” he said .
Gregory Monahan , acting chief of the U.S. Park Police , testifies about the June 1 confrontation with protesters at Lafayette Square during a House Natural Resources Committee hearing on July 28 .
The committee is investigating the circumstances under which the square was cleared before President Trump made an appearance at St. John 's Church .
While previous witness accounts and a detailed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the June 1 protest was overwhelmingly peaceful , Monahan called the Black Lives Matter demonstrations in Washington , D.C. , “ one of the most violent protests that I ’ ve been a part of in my 23 years with the United States Park Police.
” In the days before June 1 , more than 50 park police officers were injured , he said .
Attorney General William Barr , whom a Justice Department official told the Post ordered the police crackdown , told lawmakers during a separate hearing Tuesday that he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the president might come out of the White House , ” but like Monahan claimed it had “ nothing to do ” with the plan to clear the park .
Speaking to the House Judiciary Committee , Barr said that there was a plan in place to move the perimeter further out , but that the plan was delayed because , much to his frustration , units were very slow in getting into place and the fencing hadn ’ t been delivered .
“ To say that this had to do with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to analogize this to a military operation , but it ’ s akin to saying that we invaded the Philippines in World War II so that Douglas MacArthur could walk through the surf on the beach , ” Barr said .
“ One follows the other , but we did not invade the Philippines so that Douglas MacArthur could walk to the beach.
” Monahan and Barr ’ s testimony was contradicted Tuesday by that of D.C. National Guard Maj. Adam DeMarco , a U.S. combat veteran and the liaison for the D.C. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the June 1 operation .
DeMarco told the House Natural Resources Committee that the police action came shortly after Barr spoke with police leaders on site .
At no point did he feel threatened by the protesters , he said .
“ The events I witnessed at Lafayette Square on the evening of June 1 were deeply disturbing to me and fellow National Guardsmen , ” DeMarco said .
“ From my observation , those demonstrators ― our fellow American citizens ― were engaged in the peaceful expression of their First Amendment rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unprovoked escalation and excessive use of force.
” D.C. National Guard Maj. Adam DeMarco testified during the House Natural Resources Committee hearing on Tuesday that what he witnessed outside the White House on June 1 was “ morally and legally wrong ” and that he felt a duty to say something .
Barr , seeking to undermine DeMarco , pointed out during his House Judiciary Committee testimony that DeMarco ran for Congress in Maryland in 2018 .
“ I don ’ t remember Captain DeMarco ― who was the same Captain DeMarco who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Maryland ― even being close to the discussions as to what was going on , ” Barr said .
“ The fact is that the movement was not geared to the behavior of that particular crowd , it was geared to the fact that we were moving the perimeter so we could put a fence on H Street.
” “ Lafayette Square was a test run for an illegal and ongoing crackdown by the Trump administration that is being inflicted on cities across this country and attempts to escalate those confrontations , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) said Tuesday .
“ Rather than deal with and admit what did occur on June 1 was wrong , the administration is doubling down on its response to unarmed civilians in cities like Portland , [ Oregon ] .
”

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At separate congressional hearings on Tuesday, two Trump administration officials insisted that the violent police crackdown against protesters at Lafayette Park in Washington, D.C., on June 1 was about erecting a fence rather than making way for President Donald Trump to pose for photos outside a nearby church.
Acting U.S. Park Police Chief Gregory Monahan told members of the House Natural Resources Committee that park police faced “unprecedented and sustained” violence from protesters in the days before June 1 and acted with “tremendous restraint” to de-escalate the situation. Officers did not act on the order of the White House or any administration official, and there was “zero correlation between our operation and the president’s visit to the church,” he said.
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The timing suggests otherwise. Approximately 30 minutes after police began clearing the park using chemical irritants, pepper balls and batons, Trump and an entourage made their way through Lafayette Park to the historic St. John’s Episcopal Church, where Trump awkwardly held up a Bible for photographers.
“We did not clear the park for a photo-op,” Monahan testified. “There was 100% ― zero ― no correlation between our operation and the president’s visit to the church.”
Gregory Monahan, acting chief of the U.S. Park Police, testifies about the June 1 confrontation with protesters at Lafayette Square during a House Natural Resources Committee hearing on July 28. The committee is investigating the circumstances under which the square was cleared before President Trump made an appearance at St. John's Church. Leah Millis via Getty Images
While previous witness accounts and a detailed video analysis by The Washington Post indicate that the June 1 protest was overwhelmingly peaceful, Monahan called the Black Lives Matter demonstrations in Washington, D.C., “one of the most violent protests that I’ve been a part of in my 23 years with the United States Park Police.” In the days before June 1, more than 50 park police officers were injured, he said.
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Attorney General William Barr, whom a Justice Department official told the Post ordered the police crackdown, told lawmakers during a separate hearing Tuesday that he learned “sometime in the afternoon that the president might come out of the White House,” but like Monahan claimed it had “nothing to do” with the plan to clear the park.
Attorney General William Barr testifies before the House Judiciary Committee hearing on Tuesday in Washington, D.C. MATT MCCLAIN via Getty Images
Speaking to the House Judiciary Committee, Barr said that there was a plan in place to move the perimeter further out, but that the plan was delayed because, much to his frustration, units were very slow in getting into place and the fencing hadn’t been delivered.
“This was something conceived of long before and didn’t turn on the nature of the crowd, although I would say the crowd was very unruly,” Barr said.
“To say that this had to do with the photo-op ... I don’t mean to analogize this to a military operation, but it’s akin to saying that we invaded the Philippines in World War II so that Douglas MacArthur could walk through the surf on the beach,” Barr said. “One follows the other, but we did not invade the Philippines so that Douglas MacArthur could walk to the beach.”
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At the very least, Barr and Monahan’s testimony indicates that the June 1 government operation against protesters was poorly planned. Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) questioned why park police didn’t wait approximately 40 minutes until a 7 p.m. curfew took effect in order to clear the park.
“It makes no sense,” he said. “If I had acted this way when I was in the Marine Corps, I probably would have been busted down a couple of [ranks].”
Monahan and Barr’s testimony was contradicted Tuesday by that of D.C. National Guard Maj. Adam DeMarco, a U.S. combat veteran and the liaison for the D.C. National Guard and the Park Police during the June 1 operation. DeMarco told the House Natural Resources Committee that the police action came shortly after Barr spoke with police leaders on site. At no point did he feel threatened by the protesters, he said.
“The events I witnessed at Lafayette Square on the evening of June 1 were deeply disturbing to me and fellow National Guardsmen,” DeMarco said. “From my observation, those demonstrators ― our fellow American citizens ― were engaged in the peaceful expression of their First Amendment rights. Yet they were subjected to an unprovoked escalation and excessive use of force.”
D.C. National Guard Maj. Adam DeMarco testified during the House Natural Resources Committee hearing on Tuesday that what he witnessed outside the White House on June 1 was “morally and legally wrong” and that he felt a duty to say something. Bill Clark via Getty Images
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Barr, seeking to undermine DeMarco, pointed out during his House Judiciary Committee testimony that DeMarco ran for Congress in Maryland in 2018. “I don’t remember Captain DeMarco ― who was the same Captain DeMarco who ran as a Democratic candidate for Congress in Maryland ― even being close to the discussions as to what was going on,” Barr said. “The fact is that the movement was not geared to the behavior of that particular crowd, it was geared to the fact that we were moving the perimeter so we could put a fence on H Street.”
Republicans on the House Natural Resources Committee painted Tuesday’s hearing as part of a Democratic attack on police forces around the country. Democrats argued that June 1 was a precursor of the Trump administration’s expanding authoritarian federal presence in other cities in recent weeks.