cnbc--2020-03-16--Biden and Sanders debate in the shadow of coronavirus – here are the highlights

Former Vice President Joe Biden and Sen. Bernie Sanders met for the first one-on-one debate of the 2020 cycle on Sunday .
The night began under the shadow of the coronavirus pandemic .
The two men bumped elbows rather than shaking hands , before taking podiums separated by extra space .
But it did not take long for the event to be transformed into a fairly standard political battle over the competing policy plans of two men representing opposing sides of a fractious Democratic Party .
Biden and Sanders , united in going after their mutual enemy President Donald Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ party flash points .
Biden challenged Sanders over the price tag of `` Medicare for All . ''
Sanders said Biden had advocated for cuts to Social Security .
In the night 's biggest moment , Biden , who during the last debate held in South Carolina pledged to nominate a black woman to the Supreme Court , committed during Sunday 's event that his vice president would be a woman .
All in all , at the end of two hours of debate , the state of the race was similar to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ahead in delegates , is likely to be named the Democratic nominee to take on Trump unless something dramatic changes about the state of the race .
Sanders , ideologically to his left , gave no sign that he intended to give up that prize without a fight .
Both Biden and Sanders cast themselves as better equipped to combat the coronavirus pandemic wreaking havoc on the United States than Trump .
After a day in which Trump downplayed the spreading crisis and said the U.S. has it `` under control , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thing we 've got to do is shut this president up '' so doctors can do their jobs .
`` It is unacceptable for him to be blabbering with unfactual information , '' he said .
Biden was asked about Trump saying Friday that `` I do n't take responsibility at all '' for slow coronavirus testing and limited availability .
He pointed to unspecified `` rules '' and `` regulations . ''
The former vice president shook his head in disgust when asked about the president 's comment .
He faulted Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's test and instead insisting the U.S. develop its own .
'Medicare for All ' gets its coronavirus moment A 2020 Democratic presidential debate could not pass without some disagreement on `` Medicare for All . ''
Sanders has called his single-payer health insurance proposal essential to making sure all Americans can afford testing and care during the coronavirus pandemic .
Biden pointed to Italy , where coronavirus has severely stressed the medical system , as evidence that government-run insurance would not help .
`` It has nothing to do with Medicare for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ problem at all , '' he said .
Sanders countered by saying the U.S. does not have a `` system that is prepared to provide health care to all people . ''
In making his case against Sanders ' plan , Biden highlighted the House-passed legislation that would make coronavirus testing free for all Americans , including those who lack insurance .
The senator said the bill has `` enormous loopholes . ''
Pressed on whether they 'd pursue industry bailouts to help American businesses recover from the COVID-19 pandemic , Biden and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ financial crisis .
`` We need to stabilize the economy , but we ca n't repeat what we did in 2008 , '' Sanders said .
`` Joe voted for that , I voted against it . ''
Biden and Barack Obama , then a senator , supported the 2008 bailout packaged signed by President George W. Bush , which involved government purchases of $ 700 billion in toxic bank assets to rescue the economy .
Biden argued that the bank bail out was necessary to stave off financial ruin for millions of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under , all those people Bernie says he cares about would be in deep trouble .
Deep , deep trouble .
All those little people , '' he said .
Biden said he agreed with Sanders that `` somebody should have gone to jail '' but said that without the rescue package , the U.S. would 've ended up in a repeat of the Great Depression .
`` How do you get out of that ?
Bernie is saying that I guess he 's going to do a wealth tax or something , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for everything , and they should pay for everything that occurred , '' Biden said .
`` We are talking about tens and hundreds of billions of dollars .
That 's what this was about .
And the fact was that it saved the economy from going into a depression . ''
Biden whipped out some campaign statistics on Sunday to defend against attacks from Sanders and his allies over the funding behind his bid .
`` The idea , Bernie 's implication , somehow I 'm being funded by millionaires , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ average contribution to his campaign was $ 51 this month and $ 44 for the entire campaign .
He added : `` Bernie outspent me two- , three- , four- , five- , six-to-one .
And I still won !
I did n't have any money and I still won . ''
Sanders fired back that Biden had condemned super PACs in the past , and called on him to do the same during the debate .
`` Why do n't you get rid of the Super PAC that you have right now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negative ads about me , '' Sanders said .
`` Do n't laugh Joe , it 's the truth .
And they 've got two other super PACs running ads against us .
Why do n't you just say right now on television — You know what , I think in the past Joe , if I 'm not mistaken , you 've condemned Super PACs , that correct ? ''
That prompted Biden to call on Sanders to get rid of `` the nine super PACs that you have . ''
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I do n't have any super PACs , '' Sanders said .
`` You have nine .
Do you want me to list them ? ''
Biden said .
`` Yeah , you go ahead and list them , '' Sanders responded .
`` Come on , give me a break , '' Biden said , although he did not list them .
`` I commit that I will in fact pick a woman to be vice president , '' Biden said .
When moderators questioned whether that was a guarantee , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was less firm .
When he was asked whether he would name a woman to be his vice president , Sanders said : `` In all likelihood , I will . ''
Political analysts have named potential choices such as Sen. Kamala Harris , Sen. Amy Klobuchar , Sen. Elizabeth Warren , former Georgia state house lawmaker Stacey Abrams and Michigan Gov .
Gretchen Whitmer .
Warren , Harris and Klobuchar were previously rivals of Biden and Sanders ' in the primary race .
They both endorsed Biden after picking up key primary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ count .
Warren has yet to make an endorsement .

Democratic presidential hopefuls former US vice president Joe Biden (L) and Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders (R) take part in the 11th Democratic Party 2020 presidential debate in a CNN Washington Bureau studio in Washington, DC on March 15, 2020. Mandel Ngan | Getty Images
Former Vice President Joe Biden and Sen. Bernie Sanders met for the first one-on-one debate of the 2020 cycle on Sunday. The night began under the shadow of the coronavirus pandemic. The two men bumped elbows rather than shaking hands, before taking podiums separated by extra space. But it did not take long for the event to be transformed into a fairly standard political battle over the competing policy plans of two men representing opposing sides of a fractious Democratic Party. Biden and Sanders, united in going after their mutual enemy President Donald Trump, clashed on the typical array of party flash points. Biden challenged Sanders over the price tag of "Medicare for All." Sanders said Biden had advocated for cuts to Social Security. In the night's biggest moment, Biden, who during the last debate held in South Carolina pledged to nominate a black woman to the Supreme Court, committed during Sunday's event that his vice president would be a woman. All in all, at the end of two hours of debate, the state of the race was similar to when the night began. Biden, ahead in delegates, is likely to be named the Democratic nominee to take on Trump unless something dramatic changes about the state of the race. Sanders, ideologically to his left, gave no sign that he intended to give up that prize without a fight.
Trump slammed for coronavirus response
Democratic presidential hopeful Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders participates in the 11th Democratic Party 2020 presidential debate in a CNN Washington Bureau studio in Washington, DC on March 15, 2020. Mandel Ngan | Getty Images
Both Biden and Sanders cast themselves as better equipped to combat the coronavirus pandemic wreaking havoc on the United States than Trump. After a day in which Trump downplayed the spreading crisis and said the U.S. has it "under control," the Vermont senator said "the first thing we've got to do is shut this president up" so doctors can do their jobs. "It is unacceptable for him to be blabbering with unfactual information," he said. Biden was asked about Trump saying Friday that "I don't take responsibility at all" for slow coronavirus testing and limited availability. He pointed to unspecified "rules" and "regulations." The former vice president shook his head in disgust when asked about the president's comment. He faulted Trump for turning down the World Health Organization's test and instead insisting the U.S. develop its own.
'Medicare for All' gets its coronavirus moment
Democratic presidential hopefuls former US vice president Joe Biden (L) and Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders (R) take part in the 11th Democratic Party 2020 presidential debate in a CNN Washington Bureau studio in Washington, DC on March 15, 2020. Mandel Ngan | AFP | Getty Images
A 2020 Democratic presidential debate could not pass without some disagreement on "Medicare for All." Sanders has called his single-payer health insurance proposal essential to making sure all Americans can afford testing and care during the coronavirus pandemic. Biden pointed to Italy, where coronavirus has severely stressed the medical system, as evidence that government-run insurance would not help. "It has nothing to do with Medicare for All. That does not solve the problem at all," he said. Sanders countered by saying the U.S. does not have a "system that is prepared to provide health care to all people." In making his case against Sanders' plan, Biden highlighted the House-passed legislation that would make coronavirus testing free for all Americans, including those who lack insurance. The senator said the bill has "enormous loopholes."
Biden and Sanders debate 2008 bank bailout
Democratic U.S. presidential candidate and former Vice President Joe Biden speaks during the 11th Democratic candidates debate of the 2020 U.S. presidential campaign, held in CNN's Washington studios without an audience because of the global coronavirus pandemic, in Washington, U.S., March 15, 2020. Kevin Lemarque | Reuters
Pressed on whether they'd pursue industry bailouts to help American businesses recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, Biden and Sanders resuscitated their debate from the last financial crisis. "We need to stabilize the economy, but we can't repeat what we did in 2008," Sanders said. "Joe voted for that, I voted against it." Biden and Barack Obama, then a senator, supported the 2008 bailout packaged signed by President George W. Bush, which involved government purchases of $700 billion in toxic bank assets to rescue the economy. Biden argued that the bank bail out was necessary to stave off financial ruin for millions of Americans. "Had those banks gone under, all those people Bernie says he cares about would be in deep trouble. Deep, deep trouble. All those little people," he said. Biden said he agreed with Sanders that " somebody should have gone to jail" but said that without the rescue package, the U.S. would've ended up in a repeat of the Great Depression. "How do you get out of that? Bernie is saying that I guess he's going to do a wealth tax or something, that the top 1% could pay for everything, and they should pay for everything that occurred," Biden said. "We are talking about tens and hundreds of billions of dollars. That's what this was about. And the fact was that it saved the economy from going into a depression."
'I don't have nine super PACs'
Democratic U.S. presidential candidate Senator Bernie Sanders speaks during the 11th Democratic candidates debate of the 2020 U.S. presidential campaign, held in CNN's Washington studios without an audience because of the global coronavirus pandemic, in Washington, U.S., March 15, 2020. Kevin Lemarque | Reuters
Biden whipped out some campaign statistics on Sunday to defend against attacks from Sanders and his allies over the funding behind his bid. "The idea, Bernie's implication, somehow I'm being funded by millionaires," Biden said, after noting that the average contribution to his campaign was $51 this month and $44 for the entire campaign. He added: "Bernie outspent me two-, three-, four-, five-, six-to-one. And I still won! I didn't have any money and I still won." Sanders fired back that Biden had condemned super PACs in the past, and called on him to do the same during the debate. "Why don't you get rid of the Super PAC that you have right now which is running very, ugly, negative ads about me," Sanders said. "Don't laugh Joe, it's the truth. And they've got two other super PACs running ads against us. Why don't you just say right now on television — You know what, I think in the past Joe, if I'm not mistaken, you've condemned Super PACs, that correct?"
That prompted Biden to call on Sanders to get rid of "the nine super PACs that you have." "I don't have nine super PACs. I don't have any super PACs," Sanders said. "You have nine. Do you want me to list them?" Biden said. "Yeah, you go ahead and list them," Sanders responded. "Come on, give me a break," Biden said, although he did not list them.
Biden commits to female vice president pick
Democratic presidential hopeful former US vice president Joe Biden participates in the 11th Democratic Party 2020 presidential debate in a CNN Washington Bureau studio in Washington, DC on March 15, 2020. Mandel Ngan | Getty Images


cnbc--2020-03-16--Joe Biden pledges to pick a woman to be his running mate

Democratic presidential hopeful former US vice president Joe Biden participates in the 11th Democratic Party 2020 presidential debate in a CNN Washington Bureau studio in Washington , DC on March 15 , 2020 .
Former Vice President Joe Biden on Sunday committed to picking a woman as his vice presidential running mate .
`` I commit that I will in fact pick a woman to be vice president , '' Biden said during the Democratic debate .
When moderators asked whether he was guaranteeing that he will choose a woman to be his vice president , Biden said `` yes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ firm on picking a female running mate .
When he was asked whether he would name a woman to join him on the ticket , Sanders said : `` In all likelihood , I will . ''
Though allies of Biden have told CNBC that Biden is n't focused yet on who he will pick to be his running mate , political analysts have named potential choices such as Sen. Kamala Harris , Sen. Amy Klobuchar , Sen. Elizabeth Warren , former Georgia state house lawmaker Stacey Abrams and Michigan Gov .
Gretchen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were previously rivals of Biden and Sanders ' in the primary race .
They both endorsed Biden after picking up key primary victories and overtaking Sanders in the delegate count .
Warren has yet to make an endorsement .
Even before Harris ' endorsement , Biden was aligning with many of her former donors and strategists .
Weeks after the California lawmaker dropped out of the Democratic primary , Wall Street executives that were once helping her with fundraising , moved into Biden 's camp .
Andrew Yang , a progressive entrepreneur , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he exited the primary and has endorsed him as well .
When he was a candidate in the Democratic primary , people close to the former vice president spoke to Yang about potentially being part of a potential Biden administration .

Democratic presidential hopeful former US vice president Joe Biden participates in the 11th Democratic Party 2020 presidential debate in a CNN Washington Bureau studio in Washington, DC on March 15, 2020.
Former Vice President Joe Biden on Sunday committed to picking a woman as his vice presidential running mate.
"I commit that I will in fact pick a woman to be vice president," Biden said during the Democratic debate.
When moderators asked whether he was guaranteeing that he will choose a woman to be his vice president, Biden said "yes."
Sen. Bernie Sanders was less firm on picking a female running mate. When he was asked whether he would name a woman to join him on the ticket, Sanders said: "In all likelihood, I will."
Tweet:
Though allies of Biden have told CNBC that Biden isn't focused yet on who he will pick to be his running mate, political analysts have named potential choices such as Sen. Kamala Harris, Sen. Amy Klobuchar, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, former Georgia state house lawmaker Stacey Abrams and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
Warren, Harris and Klobuchar were previously rivals of Biden and Sanders' in the primary race. They both endorsed Biden after picking up key primary victories and overtaking Sanders in the delegate count. Warren has yet to make an endorsement.
Even before Harris' endorsement, Biden was aligning with many of her former donors and strategists. Weeks after the California lawmaker dropped out of the Democratic primary, Wall Street executives that were once helping her with fundraising, moved into Biden's camp.
Andrew Yang, a progressive entrepreneur, has been in touch with Biden since he exited the primary and has endorsed him as well. When he was a candidate in the Democratic primary, people close to the former vice president spoke to Yang about potentially being part of a potential Biden administration.


cnbc--2020-03-16--Trump talks coronavirus hoarding, supply chain with Target, Campbell, Costco and others

President Donald Trump on Sunday held a call with two dozen executives from consumer and grocery companies including Target , Campbell and Costco to discuss topics including hoarding and the safety of their supply chain amid the coronavirus crisis .
Trump , in a press conference Sunday , urged Americans to ease up with their shopping as people panic about not having enough food or household items while they are increasingly being asked to stay at home for extended periods of times .
The president , his spirits buoyed by the Federal Reserve cutting rates to zero , tried to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strong and stores will continue to fill their shelves .
`` You do n't have to buy so much , '' Trump said .
`` Take it easy .
Relax . ''
He added : `` Go and buy .
Enjoy it .
Have a nice dinner .
Relax . ''
Stock futures plummeted Sunday night , even after the Fed announced its latest extraordinary actions .
The coronavirus infection rate in the United States has escalated .
As Americans have fretted about quarantines and shortages , they 've raided online and brick-and-mortar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ short .
Amazon said it is out of stock on certain household items .
Chains like Texas grocer H-E-B has had to limit purchases some food items , including eggs , boxed pasta and canned soup .
Fears of product shortages have also led people to steal products like hand sanitizer and surgical masks from grocery stores and doctors ' offices .
`` The President reminded the participants that this is an all-of-America approach and each of their stores and the stores they support can help Americans feel calm and safe when shelves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' a White House spokesman said .
`` Supply chains in the United States are strong , and it is unnecessary for the American public to hoard daily essentials , '' he added .
A spokesperson for Campbell said , in the meeting , the company `` outlined the steps we are taking to ensure the health and safety of our employees and how we are meeting the increased demand for our foods in response to the COVID-19 pandemic . ''
An industry trade group , Consumer Brands Association , which represents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , requested funds in upcoming supplemental appropriations to `` mitigate supply chain disruptions '' and help manage shortages .
Trump agreed in the call to hold off for six months on new regulatory decisions that could hinder supply chains , according to a letter from the group to Trump that was obtained by CNBC .
Later Sunday , Consumer Brands Association also sent a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer , urging them to fight global export restrictions on any product used to treat or prevent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ U.S. supply chain for consumer companies is heavily reliant on foreign production .
As countries around the world battle the coronavirus pandemic , some have already begun to restrict their exports .
Germany has banned the export of protective medical products including masks , gloves and suits .
France , the Czech Republic , Turkey and Russia have enacted similar export restrictions in recent days .
`` If other countries were to follow suit by significantly disrupting the supply chain of these critical ingredients , it could substantially increase the risk of product @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thus pose a serious threat to the public health , '' wrote Bryan Zumwalt , executive vice president of public affairs for the Consumer Brands Association .
Consumer Brands Association wants Pompeo and Lightizer to determine which products are facing a possible export ban , and what the impact of that ban may be .
They also want the leaders to `` take appropriate action '' should they determine that any export restriction is in violation of a trade agreement .
They want them to considering lifting tariffs that may be adding an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The letter comes as lawmakers are also raising increasing concern about possible drug shortages , due to U.S pharmaceutical reliance on foreign manufacturing .
About 72 % of manufacturers of pharmaceutical ingredients supplying the U.S. are overseas , including 13 % in China , according to FDA testimony last year .

President Donald Trump on Sunday held a call with two dozen executives from consumer and grocery companies including Target , Campbell and Costco to discuss topics including hoarding and the safety of their supply chain amid the coronavirus crisis.
Trump, in a press conference Sunday, urged Americans to ease up with their shopping as people panic about not having enough food or household items while they are increasingly being asked to stay at home for extended periods of times.
The president, his spirits buoyed by the Federal Reserve cutting rates to zero, tried to reassure the nation its supply chain is strong and stores will continue to fill their shelves.
"You don't have to buy so much," Trump said. "Take it easy. Relax."
He added: "Go and buy. Enjoy it. Have a nice dinner. Relax."
Stock futures plummeted Sunday night, even after the Fed announced its latest extraordinary actions. The coronavirus infection rate in the United States has escalated.
As Americans have fretted about quarantines and shortages, they've raided online and brick-and-mortar retailers, leaving shelves unstocked and warehouses short. Amazon said it is out of stock on certain household items. Chains like Texas grocer H-E-B has had to limit purchases some food items, including eggs, boxed pasta and canned soup. Fears of product shortages have also led people to steal products like hand sanitizer and surgical masks from grocery stores and doctors' offices.
"The President reminded the participants that this is an all-of-America approach and each of their stores and the stores they support can help Americans feel calm and safe when shelves are stocked with the items they need," a White House spokesman said.
"Supply chains in the United States are strong, and it is unnecessary for the American public to hoard daily essentials," he added.
A spokesperson for Campbell said, in the meeting, the company "outlined the steps we are taking to ensure the health and safety of our employees and how we are meeting the increased demand for our foods in response to the COVID-19 pandemic."
An industry trade group, Consumer Brands Association, which represents companies including Lysol-owner Reckitt Benckiser and Clorox , requested funds in upcoming supplemental appropriations to "mitigate supply chain disruptions" and help manage shortages.
Trump agreed in the call to hold off for six months on new regulatory decisions that could hinder supply chains, according to a letter from the group to Trump that was obtained by CNBC.
Later Sunday, Consumer Brands Association also sent a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, urging them to fight global export restrictions on any product used to treat or prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
The U.S. supply chain for consumer companies is heavily reliant on foreign production. As countries around the world battle the coronavirus pandemic, some have already begun to restrict their exports. Germany has banned the export of protective medical products including masks, gloves and suits. France, the Czech Republic, Turkey and Russia have enacted similar export restrictions in recent days.
"If other countries were to follow suit by significantly disrupting the supply chain of these critical ingredients, it could substantially increase the risk of product shortages in the United States, and thus pose a serious threat to the public health," wrote Bryan Zumwalt, executive vice president of public affairs for the Consumer Brands Association.
Consumer Brands Association wants Pompeo and Lightizer to determine which products are facing a possible export ban, and what the impact of that ban may be. They also want the leaders to "take appropriate action" should they determine that any export restriction is in violation of a trade agreement.
They want them to considering lifting tariffs that may be adding an extra burden to the supply chain.
The letter comes as lawmakers are also raising increasing concern about possible drug shortages, due to U.S pharmaceutical reliance on foreign manufacturing. About 72% of manufacturers of pharmaceutical ingredients supplying the U.S. are overseas, including 13% in China, according to FDA testimony last year.


cnbc--2020-03-16--Coronavirus dominates early stage of the Biden-Sanders Democratic debate

Democratic presidential hopefuls former US vice president Joe Biden ( L ) and Senator Bernie Sanders take part in the 11th Democratic Party 2020 presidential debate in a CNN Washington Bureau studio in Washington , DC on March 15 , 2020 .
Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders aimed to project preparedness to mitigate the coronavirus pandemic in a presidential debate Sunday night dominated by a crisis that has upended life and rattled economies around the globe .
The specter of the outbreak hovered over the event .
The former vice president and Vermont senator spoke from podiums in CNN 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ giving the debate a sober air .
The Democratic White House hopefuls bumped elbows before the event started in lieu of a handshake .
After a day in which President Donald Trump celebrated the Federal Reserve 's emergency intervention and told Americans to `` relax , '' both candidates to replace him portrayed themselves as better crisis managers than the incumbent .
In a more than 30-minute block of debate on coronavirus , both Biden and Sanders called for free care for people who get COVID-19 and a sprawling package to protect Americans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hardship because of the pandemic .
Biden spent time highlighting the coronavirus response plan his campaign released .
He also looked to undercut one of Sanders ' core arguments during the crisis : that a universal `` Medicare for All '' health care plan would equip consumers to afford care for the coronavirus .
`` It has nothing to do with Medicare for All .
That does not solve the problem at all , '' he said .
Sanders , for his part , said `` this coronavirus pandemic exposes the incredible weakness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system . ''
After Biden highlighted a free testing provision in a bill passed by the House early Saturday as evidence that the U.S. does not need a single-payer system , the senator said it has `` enormous loopholes . ''
During the coronavirus portion of the event , at least , the event notably lacked the sniping and interruptions seen in recent debates before the Democratic presidential field shrank to essentially Biden and Sanders .
The two rivals agreed on the need for a massive economic response to protect Americans walloped by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` major , major bailout package '' that rewards `` individuals '' rather than corporations .
Meanwhile , Sanders said `` our job right now is to tell every working person in this country , no matter what your income is , you are not going to suffer as a result of this crisis . ''
Nearly 3,000 coronavirus cases have been reported in the U.S. as the disease rapidly spreads , and it has killed at least 57 people , according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University .
As schools close @ @ @ @ @ @ @ large public gatherings , the pandemic has ground in-person presidential campaigning to a halt .
While the four states — Arizona , Florida , Illinois and Ohio — holding primaries on Tuesday are moving forward with their presidential nominating events , Louisiana and Georgia have both delayed voting .
The septuagenarian candidates , who are in a higher risk age group for coronavirus , were also asked about what they have done personally to avoid the disease .
Both men highlighted the fact that they are washing their hands more , have stopped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work from home .
Sanders , who survived a heart attack last year , also pointed to the odd greeting the two men exchanged at the start of the debate .
`` Joe and I did not shake hands , '' he said .

Democratic presidential hopefuls former US vice president Joe Biden (L) and Senator Bernie Sanders take part in the 11th Democratic Party 2020 presidential debate in a CNN Washington Bureau studio in Washington, DC on March 15, 2020.
Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders aimed to project preparedness to mitigate the coronavirus pandemic in a presidential debate Sunday night dominated by a crisis that has upended life and rattled economies around the globe.
The specter of the outbreak hovered over the event. The former vice president and Vermont senator spoke from podiums in CNN's Washington studio with no live audience, giving the debate a sober air. The Democratic White House hopefuls bumped elbows before the event started in lieu of a handshake.
After a day in which President Donald Trump celebrated the Federal Reserve's emergency intervention and told Americans to "relax," both candidates to replace him portrayed themselves as better crisis managers than the incumbent. In a more than 30-minute block of debate on coronavirus, both Biden and Sanders called for free care for people who get COVID-19 and a sprawling package to protect Americans who lose their jobs or face economic hardship because of the pandemic.
Biden spent time highlighting the coronavirus response plan his campaign released. He also looked to undercut one of Sanders' core arguments during the crisis: that a universal "Medicare for All" health care plan would equip consumers to afford care for the coronavirus.
"It has nothing to do with Medicare for All. That does not solve the problem at all," he said.
Sanders, for his part, said "this coronavirus pandemic exposes the incredible weakness and dysfunctionality of our current health care system." After Biden highlighted a free testing provision in a bill passed by the House early Saturday as evidence that the U.S. does not need a single-payer system, the senator said it has "enormous loopholes."
During the coronavirus portion of the event, at least, the event notably lacked the sniping and interruptions seen in recent debates before the Democratic presidential field shrank to essentially Biden and Sanders. The two rivals agreed on the need for a massive economic response to protect Americans walloped by the pandemic.
Biden called for a "major, major bailout package" that rewards "individuals" rather than corporations. Meanwhile, Sanders said "our job right now is to tell every working person in this country, no matter what your income is, you are not going to suffer as a result of this crisis."
Nearly 3,000 coronavirus cases have been reported in the U.S. as the disease rapidly spreads, and it has killed at least 57 people, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University. As schools close and cities and states crack down on large public gatherings, the pandemic has ground in-person presidential campaigning to a halt.
While the four states — Arizona, Florida, Illinois and Ohio — holding primaries on Tuesday are moving forward with their presidential nominating events, Louisiana and Georgia have both delayed voting.
The septuagenarian candidates, who are in a higher risk age group for coronavirus, were also asked about what they have done personally to avoid the disease. Both men highlighted the fact that they are washing their hands more, have stopped holding rallies and had their campaign staff work from home.
Sanders, who survived a heart attack last year, also pointed to the odd greeting the two men exchanged at the start of the debate.
"Joe and I did not shake hands," he said.
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cnbc--2020-03-16--Biden and Sanders to face off in first one-on-one Democratic primary debate as coronavirus pandemic

Biden and Sanders to face off in first one-on-one Democratic primary debate as coronavirus pandemic rages

Democratic presidential hopefuls former US vice president Joe Biden ( L ) and Senator Bernie Sanders ( R ) greet each other with an elbow bump as they arrive for the 11th Democratic Party 2020 presidential debate in a CNN Washington Bureau studio in Washington , DC on March 15 , 2020 .
Former Vice President Joe Biden and Sen. Bernie Sanders will face off on Sunday in the first one-on-one debate of the Democratic presidential primary , a key milestone in the 2020 race that will take place in the shadow of a raging public health crisis .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ caused by coronavirus , has already re-shaped the race , absorbing a panicked nation 's attention and throwing both Biden and Sanders off the campaign trail .
Both men have ordered campaign staffers to work from home , canceled rallies and shifted campaign events to virtual formats .
Coronavirus also caused a last-minute change of plans for the debate itself .
Originally scheduled to be hosted before a live audience in Phoenix , Arizona , CNN moved the event this week to Washington , where there will be no public spectators .
Arizona @ @ @ @ @ @ @ each host Democratic primaries on Tuesday .
The event will be broadcast on CNN and Univision from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m .
ET on Sunday evening .
Even in the absence of a crisis , the debate between the two elder statesmen was likely to be an essential moment in the battle for the Democratic nomination that has now gone on for more than a year .
Biden and Sanders each represent competing factions of a deeply divided party that has struggled for more than a year to pick a nominee to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The two men , both in their late 70s , are the final serious contenders left from a historically crowded and diverse Democratic field .
Rep. Tulsi Gabbard is also competing for the nomination , but the Hawaii lawmaker has not won delegates in any contest outside of American Samoa and polls at less than 3 % in national surveys .
Gabbard has not qualified for a debate since November .
Biden , the face of the party 's moderate wing , is once again the front-runner for the nomination after temporarily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top three in Iowa and New Hampshire and in a distant second place in Nevada .
The former vice president found his turnaround in South Carolina , where black voters powered him to a dominant victory .
In a whirlwind , Biden picked up endorsements from vanquished rivals ahead of Super Tuesday , which voted just three days later .
Biden emerged from Super Tuesday with a strong delegate lead , notching victories in Virginia , North Carolina , Alabama , Tennessee , Oklahoma , Arkansas , Texas , Minnesota , Maine and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ candidate to win a state on Super Tuesday , effectively dispatched with Sen. Elizabeth Warren , the other main progressive candidate .
Sanders carried the biggest delegate prize of the night , California , as well as Vermont , Utah and Colorado , but failed to perform up to expectations in Texas as well as in several of the northeastern states , giving Biden a possibly insurmountable advantage .
Biden solidified his advantage a week later , defeating Sanders in Michigan , where the self-described democratic socialist had scored an upset victory four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the race being all-but-over , Biden has expanded his lead in national polls to 20 points , the highest since he launched his campaign .
In a significant demonstration of the state of the race , Warren has not endorsed either candidate after dropping from the race , withholding support that could entrench Sanders as the progressive standard bearer .
Speculation grew after it looked like Biden would carry Michigan on Tuesday that Sanders would exit .
But in an address in Burlington , Vt. , on Wednesday , Sanders vowed to press @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the debate `` with my friend , Joe Biden . ''
`` And let me be very frank as to the questions that I will be asking Joe , '' Sanders said , before listing off a range of questions about health care , climate change , student debt and childhood poverty .
`` Are you really going to veto a 'Medicare for All ' bill if it is passed in congress ? ''
Sanders asked , referring to comments Biden made on MSNBC earlier in the week .
With just two candidates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to direct the conversation to a greater degree than in past debates .
Biden , who is likely to carry the nomination unless the race 's trajectory changes dramatically , will be looking to defend his record and policy stances without creating too many headlines .
That could be a challenge for a candidate who typically performs better in one-on-one interactions with voters than on the national debate stage .
But Biden , who has criticized the previous formats for being full of `` one-minute assertions , '' may also welcome the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a less crowded debate stage .
All-in-all , it would take something momentous to knock Biden from his position .
Going into the debate Biden had won 854 delegates compared to Sanders ' 701 as of Saturday , according to an NBC News tally , and the states yet to vote look likely to be in his favor .
Candidates must win at least 1,991 of a total 3,979 pledged delegates to be named the party nominee in July .

Democratic presidential hopefuls former US vice president Joe Biden (L) and Senator Bernie Sanders (R) greet each other with an elbow bump as they arrive for the 11th Democratic Party 2020 presidential debate in a CNN Washington Bureau studio in Washington, DC on March 15, 2020.
Former Vice President Joe Biden and Sen. Bernie Sanders will face off on Sunday in the first one-on-one debate of the Democratic presidential primary, a key milestone in the 2020 race that will take place in the shadow of a raging public health crisis.
The rapid spread of COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus, has already re-shaped the race, absorbing a panicked nation's attention and throwing both Biden and Sanders off the campaign trail. Both men have ordered campaign staffers to work from home, canceled rallies and shifted campaign events to virtual formats.
Coronavirus also caused a last-minute change of plans for the debate itself. Originally scheduled to be hosted before a live audience in Phoenix, Arizona, CNN moved the event this week to Washington, where there will be no public spectators. Arizona, Illinois, Ohio and Florida will each host Democratic primaries on Tuesday.
The event will be broadcast on CNN and Univision from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. ET on Sunday evening.
Even in the absence of a crisis, the debate between the two elder statesmen was likely to be an essential moment in the battle for the Democratic nomination that has now gone on for more than a year.
Biden and Sanders each represent competing factions of a deeply divided party that has struggled for more than a year to pick a nominee to take on President Donald Trump in November. The two men, both in their late 70s, are the final serious contenders left from a historically crowded and diverse Democratic field.
Rep. Tulsi Gabbard is also competing for the nomination, but the Hawaii lawmaker has not won delegates in any contest outside of American Samoa and polls at less than 3% in national surveys. Gabbard has not qualified for a debate since November.
Biden, the face of the party's moderate wing, is once again the front-runner for the nomination after temporarily losing that status after finishing outside the top three in Iowa and New Hampshire and in a distant second place in Nevada.
The former vice president found his turnaround in South Carolina, where black voters powered him to a dominant victory. In a whirlwind, Biden picked up endorsements from vanquished rivals ahead of Super Tuesday, which voted just three days later.
Biden emerged from Super Tuesday with a strong delegate lead, notching victories in Virginia, North Carolina, Alabama, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Texas, Minnesota, Maine and Massachusetts.
Sanders, the only other candidate to win a state on Super Tuesday, effectively dispatched with Sen. Elizabeth Warren, the other main progressive candidate.
Sanders carried the biggest delegate prize of the night, California, as well as Vermont, Utah and Colorado, but failed to perform up to expectations in Texas as well as in several of the northeastern states, giving Biden a possibly insurmountable advantage.
Biden solidified his advantage a week later, defeating Sanders in Michigan, where the self-described democratic socialist had scored an upset victory four years before. In a sign of the race being all-but-over, Biden has expanded his lead in national polls to 20 points, the highest since he launched his campaign.
In a significant demonstration of the state of the race, Warren has not endorsed either candidate after dropping from the race, withholding support that could entrench Sanders as the progressive standard bearer.
Speculation grew after it looked like Biden would carry Michigan on Tuesday that Sanders would exit. But in an address in Burlington, Vt., on Wednesday, Sanders vowed to press on, saying he looked forward to the debate "with my friend, Joe Biden."
"And let me be very frank as to the questions that I will be asking Joe," Sanders said, before listing off a range of questions about health care, climate change, student debt and childhood poverty.
"Are you really going to veto a 'Medicare for All' bill if it is passed in congress?" Sanders asked, referring to comments Biden made on MSNBC earlier in the week.
With just two candidates on stage, Sanders will likely be able to direct the conversation to a greater degree than in past debates. Biden, who is likely to carry the nomination unless the race's trajectory changes dramatically, will be looking to defend his record and policy stances without creating too many headlines.
That could be a challenge for a candidate who typically performs better in one-on-one interactions with voters than on the national debate stage. But Biden, who has criticized the previous formats for being full of "one-minute assertions," may also welcome the chance to have more time to speak on a less crowded debate stage.
All-in-all, it would take something momentous to knock Biden from his position. Going into the debate Biden had won 854 delegates compared to Sanders' 701 as of Saturday, according to an NBC News tally, and the states yet to vote look likely to be in his favor.
Candidates must win at least 1,991 of a total 3,979 pledged delegates to be named the party nominee in July.


cnbc--2020-03-16--Kentucky delays its 2020 primary, the latest state to do so as coronavirus spreads

Democratic presidential hopeful former Vice President Joe Biden ( L ) and Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders ( R ) speak during the eighth Democratic primary debate of the 2020 presidential campaign season co-hosted by ABC News , WMUR-TV and Apple News at St. Anselm College in Manchester , New Hampshire , on February 7 , 2020 .
Kentucky delayed its primary election on Monday , becoming the latest state to take the step to curb the spread of the coronavirus .
The state will move its nominating contest to June 23 from the originally planned May 19 , Secretary of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he made the decision with Gov .
Andy Beshear during what he called `` unprecedented times . ''
`` My hope is that this delay will allow us to have a normal election , '' Adams said in a video posted to Twitter .
Several other states have already changed their election schedules as the coronavirus pandemic rages across the U.S. and paralyzes normal activity .
Louisiana and Georgia delayed their planned primaries .
Wyoming also canceled the in-person portion of its Democratic caucus .
Ohio Gov .
Mike DeWine recommended Monday that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ set for Tuesday .
Other states holding nominating contests Tuesday — Arizona , Florida and Illinois — have moved forward with their primaries as planned .
The outbreak has disrupted the election process as former Vice President Joe Biden and Sen. Bernie Sanders vie in the 2020 Democratic presidential primary to take on President Donald Trump later this year .
The rivals have stopped holding in-person campaign events .
Biden , who has opened up a pledged delegate lead over Sanders , hopes to extend it on Tuesday as he is favored to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unclear now if disruptions to the state primaries and nominating conventions will force the Democratic National Committee to push back its planned convention in July .

Democratic presidential hopeful former Vice President Joe Biden (L) and Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders (R) speak during the eighth Democratic primary debate of the 2020 presidential campaign season co-hosted by ABC News, WMUR-TV and Apple News at St. Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire, on February 7, 2020.
Kentucky delayed its primary election on Monday, becoming the latest state to take the step to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
The state will move its nominating contest to June 23 from the originally planned May 19, Secretary of State Michael Adams announced. He said he made the decision with Gov. Andy Beshear during what he called "unprecedented times."
"My hope is that this delay will allow us to have a normal election," Adams said in a video posted to Twitter.
Michael Adams tweet
Several other states have already changed their election schedules as the coronavirus pandemic rages across the U.S. and paralyzes normal activity. Louisiana and Georgia delayed their planned primaries. Wyoming also canceled the in-person portion of its Democratic caucus.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine recommended Monday that the state delay its in-person primary voting set for Tuesday. Other states holding nominating contests Tuesday — Arizona, Florida and Illinois — have moved forward with their primaries as planned.
The outbreak has disrupted the election process as former Vice President Joe Biden and Sen. Bernie Sanders vie in the 2020 Democratic presidential primary to take on President Donald Trump later this year. The rivals have stopped holding in-person campaign events.
Biden, who has opened up a pledged delegate lead over Sanders, hopes to extend it on Tuesday as he is favored to win every state voting. It is unclear now if disruptions to the state primaries and nominating conventions will force the Democratic National Committee to push back its planned convention in July.
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cnbc--2020-03-16--Coronavirus concerns: Trump press secretary Grisham working from home after contact with Brazil dele

Coronavirus concerns: Trump press secretary Grisham working from home after contact with Brazil delegation at Mar-a-Lago

Stephanie Grisham , communications director for first lady Melania Trump and a longtime aide to President Donald Trump , walks along the Colonnade after it was announced she will succeed Sarah Sanders as White House press secretary at the White House in Washington , June 25 , 2019 .
Stephanie Grisham , the White House press secretary , is working from home after recent exposure to Brazilian officials at President Donald Trump 's Mar-a-Lago resort who later tested positive for the coronavirus , she said Monday .
`` Yes I 'm working from home and yes I feel good , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to CNBC .
`` With my close proximity to the President , it 's better to be safe than sorry , '' she added .
Grisham , who is also the White House communications director , had contact with members of a Brazilian delegation that visited Trump 's club in Florida two weekends ago .
Two of the members of that delegation have since tested positive for coronavirus .
One of those people was Fabio Wajngarten , the press secretary for Brazil 's president , Jair Bolsonaro .
Bolsonaro tested negative for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his Facebook page .
Trump , who dined with Bolsonaro at Mar-a-Lago and who posed for a photo with Wajngarten , also tested negative for coronavirus , according to the White House physician .
Mar-a-Lago was largely closed Monday for a `` thorough deep cleaning , '' a source familiar with the situation told NBC News .
In addition to the two Brazilians , an unidentified Trump donor who attended a fundraiser at Mar-a-Lago on March 8 also has tested positive for coronavirus .
An email sent to Mar-a-Lago members said `` a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , guest rooms , and dining area '' was being done , but noted that `` the beach club will remain open . ''
The note also said that sanitation of `` all other areas will follow in the days to come . ''

Stephanie Grisham, communications director for first lady Melania Trump and a longtime aide to President Donald Trump, walks along the Colonnade after it was announced she will succeed Sarah Sanders as White House press secretary at the White House in Washington, June 25, 2019.
Stephanie Grisham, the White House press secretary, is working from home after recent exposure to Brazilian officials at President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort who later tested positive for the coronavirus, she said Monday.
"Yes I'm working from home and yes I feel good," Grisham wrote in a text message to CNBC.
"With my close proximity to the President, it's better to be safe than sorry," she added.
Grisham, who is also the White House communications director, had contact with members of a Brazilian delegation that visited Trump's club in Florida two weekends ago.
Two of the members of that delegation have since tested positive for coronavirus.
One of those people was Fabio Wajngarten, the press secretary for Brazil's president, Jair Bolsonaro.
Bolsonaro tested negative for the virus, according to his son and his Facebook page.
Trump, who dined with Bolsonaro at Mar-a-Lago and who posed for a photo with Wajngarten, also tested negative for coronavirus, according to the White House physician.
Mar-a-Lago was largely closed Monday for a "thorough deep cleaning," a source familiar with the situation told NBC News.
In addition to the two Brazilians, an unidentified Trump donor who attended a fundraiser at Mar-a-Lago on March 8 also has tested positive for coronavirus.
An email sent to Mar-a-Lago members said "a thorough deep cleaning of the main house, guest rooms, and dining area" was being done, but noted that "the beach club will remain open."
The note also said that sanitation of "all other areas will follow in the days to come."


cnbc--2020-03-16--Trump issues 'Coronavirus Guidelines' for next 15 days to slow pandemic

President Donald Trump on Monday announced a strict set of guidelines for Americans to follow for the next 15 days to try to `` slow the spread '' of the coronavirus .
The recommendations call on people to sharply limit their normal behaviors when it comes to eating out , shopping and socializing .
Trump laid out the guidelines at a White House press conference on a day that saw the number of reported coronavirus cases in the United States rise above 4,000 .
AAt the same time , stock market indices posted record-breaking losses as states and cities took @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rate of transmission .
The suggestions include encouraging people to `` avoid social gatherings in groups of more than 10 people , '' as well as avoiding `` eating or drinking in bars , restaurants and food courts . ''
In states where community transmission has already occurred , officials should close `` bars , restaurants , food courts , gym , and other indoor and outdoor venues where groups of people congregate , '' the guidelines say .
• Work or engage in schooling from home whenever possible .
• If you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and away from other people .
• Practice good hygiene .
Wash your hands , especially after touching any frequently used item or surface .
Avoid touching your face .
The guidelines encourage governors of states with evidence of community transmission of the virus to close schools in affected and surrounding areas .
`` All states should follow Federal guidance and halt social visits to nursing homes and retirement and long-term care facilities .
`` Even if you are young , or otherwise healthy , you are at risk and your activities can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the guidelines say .
`` It is critical that you do your part to stop the spread of the coronavirus . ''
• Listen and follow the directions of your state and local authorities .
• If you feel sick , stay home .
Do not go to work .
Contact your medical provider .
• If your children are sick , keep them at home .
Do not send them to school .
Contact your medical provider .
• If someone in your household has tested positive for the coronavirus , keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not go to work .
Do not go to school .
Contact your medical provider .
• If you are an older person , stay home and away from other people .
• If you are a person with a serious underlying health condition that can put you at increased risk ( for example , a condition that impairs your lung or heart function or weakens your immune system ) , stay home and away from other people .
• Even if you are young , or otherwise healthy , you are at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk for others .
It is critical that you do your part to stop the spread of the coronavirus .
• Work or engage in schooling from home whenever possible .
• If you work in a critical infrastructure industry , as defined by the Department of Homeland Security , such as health care service and pharmaceutical and food supply , you have a special responsibility to maintain your normal work schedule .
You and your employers should follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance to protect your health at work .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than 10 people .
• Avoid eating or drinking in bars , restaurants , and food courts — use drive-thru , pick-up or delivery options .
• Do not visit nursing homes or retirement or long-term care facilities unless to provide critical assistance .
• Wash your hands , especially after touching any frequently used item or surface .
• Sneeze or cough into a tissue , or the inside of your elbow .
• Disinfect frequently used items and surfaces as much as possible .

President Donald Trump on Monday announced a strict set of guidelines for Americans to follow for the next 15 days to try to "slow the spread" of the coronavirus. The recommendations call on people to sharply limit their normal behaviors when it comes to eating out, shopping and socializing.
Trump laid out the guidelines at a White House press conference on a day that saw the number of reported coronavirus cases in the United States rise above 4,000. AAt the same time, stock market indices posted record-breaking losses as states and cities took dramatic actions in efforts to reduce the rate of transmission.
The suggestions include encouraging people to "avoid social gatherings in groups of more than 10 people," as well as avoiding "eating or drinking in bars, restaurants and food courts."
In states where community transmission has already occurred, officials should close "bars, restaurants, food courts, gym, and other indoor and outdoor venues where groups of people congregate," the guidelines say.
Other recommendations include:
Work or engage in schooling from home whenever possible.
Avoid discretionary travel, shopping trips, and social visits.
If you are an older person, stay home and away from other people.
Practice good hygiene. Wash your hands, especially after touching any frequently used item or surface. Avoid touching your face.
The guidelines encourage governors of states with evidence of community transmission of the virus to close schools in affected and surrounding areas.
"All states should follow Federal guidance and halt social visits to nursing homes and retirement and long-term care facilities.
"Even if you are young, or otherwise healthy, you are at risk and your activities can increase the risk for others," the guidelines say. "It is critical that you do your part to stop the spread of the coronavirus."
Read all the guidelines:


cnbc--2020-03-16--Trump says coronavirus crisis could stretch into August, may look at lockdown for 'certain areas'

President Donald Trump said Monday that the U.S. may be able to get the new coronavirus outbreak under control by July or August at the earliest .
Trump , speaking to reporters in the White House briefing room , also said his administration may look at lockdowns for `` certain areas '' or `` hot spots '' in the nation .
But the president said he was n't considering a full national lockdown .
`` At this moment , no , we 're not , '' Trump said .
The latest daily briefing came as the number of infections and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rise in the U.S. , prompting drastic action at every level of government to try to mitigate its spread .
Asked when the U.S. might expect to turn a corner in its efforts to rein in the virus , Trump said that `` If we do a really good job , we 'll not only hold the death down to a level that is much lower than the other way , had we not done a good job , but people are talking about July , August , something like that . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Dow Jones Industrial Average closing down nearly 13 % .
The coronavirus task force was originally scheduled to brief reporters Monday morning , but the event was pushed back until after 3 p.m .
ET .
Trump spoke at roughly the same time in the Rose Garden on Friday , where he was flanked by business leaders who unveiled their own efforts to fight the coronavirus .

President Donald Trump said Monday that the U.S. may be able to get the new coronavirus outbreak under control by July or August at the earliest.
Trump, speaking to reporters in the White House briefing room, also said his administration may look at lockdowns for "certain areas" or "hot spots" in the nation. But the president said he wasn't considering a full national lockdown. "At this moment, no, we're not," Trump said.
The latest daily briefing came as the number of infections and deaths from the COVID-19 virus continued to rise in the U.S., prompting drastic action at every level of government to try to mitigate its spread.
Asked when the U.S. might expect to turn a corner in its efforts to rein in the virus, Trump said that "If we do a really good job, we'll not only hold the death down to a level that is much lower than the other way, had we not done a good job, but people are talking about July, August, something like that."
Equities plunged as Trump spoke, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average closing down nearly 13%.
The coronavirus task force was originally scheduled to brief reporters Monday morning, but the event was pushed back until after 3 p.m. ET. Trump spoke at roughly the same time in the Rose Garden on Friday, where he was flanked by business leaders who unveiled their own efforts to fight the coronavirus.


cnbc--2020-03-16--White House braces for political fight as it readies coronavirus airline bailout package

The Trump administration is grappling with which industries to bail out as thousands of businesses in the U.S. grind to a halt amid severe measures to curb the spread of the deadly coronavirus .
The U.S. could lose 8.2 million international visitors this year .
That 's more than the country lost in the two years after 9/11 .
That 's lost revenue not only for airlines and hotels , but also for restaurants , retailers and airports .
In some states , malls , gyms and movie theaters are shuttering and officials are telling restaurants to offer only takeout @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how we get through this without wide-scale systemic solutions , '' said one top-tier investor .
`` We 're going to have to rewrite the rules to get to the other side . ''
If the White House has its way , those solutions will include financial aid to the airline , cruise , and hospitality industries , Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin confirmed this weekend .
The administration has already begun putting together packages for industries it wants to support , people familiar with the matter tell CNBC .
The U.S. airline industry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assistance of more than $ 50 billion , including a mix of direct aid and loan guarantees .
Other measures to confront the economic meltdown may include stimulus options for both companies and individuals , like a payroll tax cut , which President Donald Trump has pushed for , despite an inability to gain bipartisan support .
Enhanced small-business loans through the Small Business Administration and more support to states and individuals battling the crisis are also on the table .
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is planning his own aid proposal of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would include forbearance on federal loans , a moratorium on evictions and foreclosures , assistance for small businesses and emergency child care .
But while the high-stakes game of choosing how to support the U.S. economy is a difficult decision in any year , the added task of doing so in an election year makes it particularly thorny .
`` [ The question is ] , why should people at the top be bailed out when people at the bottom are struggling .
And how are you picking winners and losers , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ historian at George Washington University .
As winners go , the airline industry is likely to draw the most bipartisan support , as the sector is critical to the U.S. economy .
It employs 750,000 people and allows travel throughout the nation , including local hubs .
Its fall would crush confidence in the U.S. economy .
It also has politicians on both sides of the aisle who have traditionally supported the industry .
Democrat Sen. Amy Klobuchar hails from Minnesota , home to Delta 's hub at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Republican , helped draft the legislation that saved the airline industry in the fallout of the 9/11 attacks .
Still , the industry has angered some lawmakers and consumers as it has cut legroom and added myriad fees to increase profits .
The biggest players have also consolidated their grip through a decade of mergers .
U.S. airlines last year reported their 10th straight year in the black , a departure from the boom-and-bust cycles that plagued the sector for decades .
Their balance sheets are much stronger than the debt-saddled ones during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Any offer to aid the industry as individuals suffer is likely to bring those complaints back to the forefront .
`` They have money in the bank , they 're secure , '' said Alvin Lewis , owner of Alvin 's Limousine Services .
Lewis runs a car service in Austin , Texas .
His business was hit hard when South by Southwest canceled its annual festival and conference there .
`` For me , I 'm a small-business owner .
In the last four weeks , I have n't made any money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for this month and I 'm stuck right now – I ca n't make the payment on my cars , my bills are piling up - I 'm out of business it looks like . ''
Lewis ' perception conflicts with that of the airlines ' assessment of their current woes , but it highlights the difficult line politicians must walk in order to manage the crisis in an election year .
Both parties have said they will push to support small businesses in further aid packages .
Even if there is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the government is unlikely to offer it without concessions .
Lawmakers and lobbyists frequently compare any aid to the airline industry to that which the government offered after the Sept. 11 , 2001 , attacks .
In both cases , they contend , the challenges facing the industry are not of its own doing .
But there 's an aversion to using the word `` bailout , '' and there may be good reason .
Former President Barack Obama 's bailout of the struggling auto industry in 2008 imposed emission caps and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CEO .
Shareholders were wiped out .
But even the deal to save the airline industry after 9/11 had caveats .
The package , which totaled $ 5 billion in direct grants and $ 10 billion in loan guarantees , came with requirements that chief executives cap their salaries at $ 300,000 .
Several airline CEOs and other executives including those at Delta , United , Southwest and JetBlue in recent weeks agreed to either temporarily forgo their salaries or take pay cuts .
Controversially , though , it did not include aid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have made clear they will not allow again .
`` Any deal to support these industries must focus on workers , who drive the success of any organization , and support working families who are most vulnerable to the economic consequences of coronavirus , '' said Sen. Sherrod Brown , D-Ohio .
The cruise and hotel industries , meantime , are likely to be more politically contentious .
Many cruise lines are not incorporated in the U.S. Carnival is incorporated in Panama and Royal Caribbean is incorporated in the Republic of Liberia .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ their ships , and have long been scrutinized by Congress for what some have alleged are unsafe conditions on board .
Unlike the airline industry , which has a huge national footprint with hubs throughout the country and smaller communities dependent upon service , there are only so many U.S. ports .
That means any political support is also limited .
Meanwhile , the hotel industry is not limited to a handful of key players , as with the airlines and cruise operators .
And any decision to rescue the hospitality industry is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ owns a hotel chain .
`` It is easy to identify an airline , '' said Kent Smetters , director of the Penn Wharton Budget Model .
`` But , exactly what do we mean by a hotel that is hit hard ?
Would my personal Airbnb not count if I had a lot of cancellations .
I could see these targets being litigated and funds being dispersed well after science has figured out a solution . ''
And even if the government aids the airline , cruise and hotel industries , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ each to ramp up back to capacity .
Until they do , there will be less demand for airplane parts , food services and hotel sheets .
The economic impact is likely to ripple far and wide .
`` Unlike in 2008 , unlike 2001 – there is not one or two particular industries we are talking about , and the economic pain that we as a society are going to face is widespread , '' said George Washington 's Dallek .
`` Because if you bail out the travel industries -- well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that are going to go under ?
What about the taxi drivers and Uber and Lyft drivers ?
What about other people who are being laid off in other industries that are threatened . ''

President Donald Trump makes remarks to the media in the Capitol after attending the Senate Republican Policy luncheon on Tuesday, March 10, 2020. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, right, and Vice President Mike Pence also appear. Tom Williams | CQ Roll Call | Getty Images
The Trump administration is grappling with which industries to bail out as thousands of businesses in the U.S. grind to a halt amid severe measures to curb the spread of the deadly coronavirus. The U.S. could lose 8.2 million international visitors this year. That's more than the country lost in the two years after 9/11. That's lost revenue not only for airlines and hotels, but also for restaurants, retailers and airports. In some states, malls, gyms and movie theaters are shuttering and officials are telling restaurants to offer only takeout options. "I don't see how we get through this without wide-scale systemic solutions," said one top-tier investor. "We're going to have to rewrite the rules to get to the other side." If the White House has its way, those solutions will include financial aid to the airline, cruise, and hospitality industries, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin confirmed this weekend. The administration has already begun putting together packages for industries it wants to support, people familiar with the matter tell CNBC. The U.S. airline industry confirmed Monday that it is seeking government assistance of more than $50 billion, including a mix of direct aid and loan guarantees.
watch now
Other measures to confront the economic meltdown may include stimulus options for both companies and individuals, like a payroll tax cut, which President Donald Trump has pushed for, despite an inability to gain bipartisan support. Enhanced small-business loans through the Small Business Administration and more support to states and individuals battling the crisis are also on the table. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is planning his own aid proposal of at least $750 billion. It would include forbearance on federal loans, a moratorium on evictions and foreclosures, assistance for small businesses and emergency child care.
Election year issues
But while the high-stakes game of choosing how to support the U.S. economy is a difficult decision in any year, the added task of doing so in an election year makes it particularly thorny. "[The question is], why should people at the top be bailed out when people at the bottom are struggling. And how are you picking winners and losers," said professor Matt Dallek, a political historian at George Washington University. As winners go, the airline industry is likely to draw the most bipartisan support, as the sector is critical to the U.S. economy. It employs 750,000 people and allows travel throughout the nation, including local hubs. Its fall would crush confidence in the U.S. economy. It also has politicians on both sides of the aisle who have traditionally supported the industry. Democrat Sen. Amy Klobuchar hails from Minnesota, home to Delta 's hub at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Missouri's Sen. Roy Blunt, a Republican, helped draft the legislation that saved the airline industry in the fallout of the 9/11 attacks. Still, the industry has angered some lawmakers and consumers as it has cut legroom and added myriad fees to increase profits. The biggest players have also consolidated their grip through a decade of mergers. U.S. airlines last year reported their 10th straight year in the black, a departure from the boom-and-bust cycles that plagued the sector for decades. Their balance sheets are much stronger than the debt-saddled ones during previous crises, analysts have noted. Any offer to aid the industry as individuals suffer is likely to bring those complaints back to the forefront. "They have money in the bank, they're secure," said Alvin Lewis, owner of Alvin's Limousine Services. Lewis runs a car service in Austin, Texas. His business was hit hard when South by Southwest canceled its annual festival and conference there. "For me, I'm a small-business owner. In the last four weeks, I haven't made any money at all. I had 300 cancellations for this month and I'm stuck right now – I can't make the payment on my cars, my bills are piling up - I'm out of business it looks like." Lewis' perception conflicts with that of the airlines' assessment of their current woes, but it highlights the difficult line politicians must walk in order to manage the crisis in an election year. Both parties have said they will push to support small businesses in further aid packages.
Don't call it a bailout
Even if there is the broadest political support for an airline bailout, the government is unlikely to offer it without concessions. Lawmakers and lobbyists frequently compare any aid to the airline industry to that which the government offered after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. In both cases, they contend, the challenges facing the industry are not of its own doing. But there's an aversion to using the word "bailout," and there may be good reason. Former President Barack Obama's bailout of the struggling auto industry in 2008 imposed emission caps and the forced resignation of General Motors then CEO. Shareholders were wiped out. But even the deal to save the airline industry after 9/11 had caveats. The package, which totaled $5 billion in direct grants and $10 billion in loan guarantees, came with requirements that chief executives cap their salaries at $300,000. Several airline CEOs and other executives including those at Delta, United , Southwest and JetBlue in recent weeks agreed to either temporarily forgo their salaries or take pay cuts. Controversially, though, it did not include aid for airline workers, an oversight Democrats have made clear they will not allow again. "Any deal to support these industries must focus on workers, who drive the success of any organization, and support working families who are most vulnerable to the economic consequences of coronavirus," said Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio.
Difficult choices


cnbc--2020-03-16--'You're supposed to be the President' – Trump and Cuomo fight on Twitter about coronavirus response

New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo briefing on updates on spread of covid-19 in New York State at NYPA White Plains Office .
President Donald Trump and New York Gov .
Andrew Cuomo traded insults on Twitter on Monday , ramping up each of their attacks about the other 's efforts to combat the spread of the coronavirus pandemic .
Cuomo , a Democrat , drew first blood at the top of a phone conference with reporters Monday morning , when he said that the federal government has been `` behind from day one of this crisis . ''
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been `` inexcusable , '' Cuomo said .
Cuomo made his remarks before he announced that he and Govs .
Phil Murphy of New Jersey and Ned Lamont of Connecticut had agreed to enforce the closing of certain businesses and limit public gatherings to fewer than 50 people in each of their states .
`` States , frankly , do n't have the capacity or the power to make up for the federal government , '' Cuomo said , citing `` a lack of federal direction and nationwide standards . ''
Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social media following a `` very good tele-conference with Nation 's Governors . ''
`` Cuomo of New York has to 'do more , ' '' Trump said .
It was not clear whom the president appeared to be quoting in the tweet .
He later issued another version of the tweet that corrected a typo .
During the video conference Monday morning , Trump reportedly suggested that the governors work on their own to try to obtain medical equipment that is increasingly needed for people diagnosed with the coronavirus .
`` Respirators @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – try getting it yourselves , '' Trump told the state leaders , The New York Times reported , citing a recording of the conference call .
`` We will be backing you , but try getting it yourselves , '' Trump added , according to the Times .
`` Point of sales , much better , much more direct if you can get it yourself . ''
Shortly after the president sent his tweet , Cuomo hit back : `` I have to do more ?
No — YOU have to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the President . ''
It 's not the first time the two leaders have banged heads amid the nationwide efforts to rein in the spread of the coronavirus .
There are now more than 3,800 cases of COVID-19 and 69 deaths in the U.S. alone , according to data from Johns Hopkins University .
Earlier in March , Trump lashed out at the New York governor after Cuomo complained in a television interview about the `` mixed messages '' coming from the Trump administration .
`` There are no mixed messages , only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your brother , Fredo ! ''
Trump tweeted , referencing a comment made toward CNN broadcaster Chris Cuomo , the governor 's brother , in a viral video .
Cuomo had been filmed in a heated exchange with a man he accused of derisively calling him `` Fredo '' — a character from the classic mob film `` The Godfather '' and a term that Chris Cuomo said was a slur against Italians .
Trump has since described the CNN anchor as Fredo on numerous occasions .

New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo briefing on updates on spread of covid-19 in New York State at NYPA White Plains Office.
President Donald Trump and New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo traded insults on Twitter, ramping up their attacks on each other over their efforts to combat the coronavirus pandemic.
The president kept the feud alive Tuesday morning, admonishing Democrat Cuomo to "keep politics out of" the coronavirus response.
Cuomo attacked first, during a phone conference with reporters Monday morning, when he said the federal government has been "behind from day one of this crisis." The administration's response to the deadly virus has been "inexcusable," Cuomo said.
Cuomo made his remarks before he announced that he and Govs. Phil Murphy of New Jersey and Ned Lamont of Connecticut had agreed to coordinate the closings of certain businesses and limit public gatherings to fewer than 50 people in their states.
"States, frankly, don't have the capacity or the power to make up for the federal government," Cuomo said, citing "a lack of federal direction and nationwide standards."
Trump, in the afternoon, responded on social media following a "very good tele-conference with Nation's Governors."
"Cuomo of New York has to 'do more,'" Trump said. It was not clear whom the president appeared to be quoting in the tweet. He later issued another version of the tweet that corrected a typo.
TRUMP TWEET
During the video conference Monday morning, Trump reportedly suggested that the governors work on their own to try to obtain breathing equipment needed for people diagnosed with the coronavirus.
"Respirators, ventilators, all of the equipment – try getting it yourselves," Trump told the state leaders, The New York Times reported, citing a recording of the conference call.
"We will be backing you, but try getting it yourselves," Trump added, according to the Times. "Point of sales, much better, much more direct if you can get it yourself."
Shortly after the president's tweet, Cuomo hit back: "I have to do more? No — YOU have to do something! You're supposed to be the President."
Cuomo TWEET
On Tuesday morning, Trump took another swing at the New York governor.
"Cuomo wants 'all states to be treated the same.' But all states aren't the same," Trump wrote.
"Some are being hit hard by the Chinese Virus, some are being hit practically not at all. New York is a very big 'hotspot', West Virginia has, thus far, zero cases."
"Andrew, keep politics out of it," the president added.
Trump TWEET
It's not the first time the two have banged heads amid the nationwide efforts to rein in the spread of the coronavirus, which has been confirmed in more than 3,800 people in the U.S., killing 69, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.
Earlier in March, Trump lashed out at the governor after Cuomo complained in a television interview about the "mixed messages" coming from the Trump administration.
"There are no mixed messages, only political weaponization by people like you and your brother, Fredo!" Trump tweeted, referencing a comment made toward CNN broadcaster Chris Cuomo, the governor's brother, in a viral video.
The video showed Chris Cuomo in a heated exchange with a man he accused of derisively calling him "Fredo" — the weak brother in the Corleone family in "The Godfather" movies. Chris Cuomo called it a slur against Italians. Trump has since described the CNN anchor as Fredo on numerous occasions.
Trump TWEET 2


cnbc--2020-03-16--Defense Secretary Esper and deputy to remain separated as coronavirus precaution

WASHINGTON — The Department of Defense announced Monday it will keep the two highest-ranking Pentagon officials , Secretary Mark Esper and deputy David Norquist , physically separated from each other as a precaution to prevent the spread of coronavirus .
`` Starting today , the secretary and the deputy secretary of Defense remain physically separated , '' Jonathan Hoffman , assistant defense secretary for public affairs , told a handful of reporters at the Pentagon and many more on a teleconference line .
`` That means that they and their staff will only interact via teleconference .
We are screening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suite and limiting the number of people who have access as well , '' he added .
The Pentagon reservation employs more than 22,000 people , making it one of the largest office buildings in the world .
The virus — which has already killed more than 7,000 people and infected more than 179,000 people around the world — is spreading from the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command , the largest of all geographic combatant commands .
Currently , there are 37 known cases of COVID-19 within the Department of Defense : 18 active-duty service @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dependents and three contractors .
`` At the Department of Defense , we are set up so that our commanders and our leaders can do their jobs from anywhere in the world at any time .
We are able to take advantage of that probably to an extent that even major companies and others are n't able to .
So , we are going to continue to do what we need to protect the leadership and the workforce , '' Hoffman said .

WASHINGTON — The Department of Defense announced Monday it will keep the two highest-ranking Pentagon officials, Secretary Mark Esper and deputy David Norquist, physically separated from each other as a precaution to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
"Starting today, the secretary and the deputy secretary of Defense remain physically separated," Jonathan Hoffman, assistant defense secretary for public affairs, told a handful of reporters at the Pentagon and many more on a teleconference line.
"That means that they and their staff will only interact via teleconference. We are screening people that are entering the secretary's suite and limiting the number of people who have access as well," he added.
The Pentagon reservation employs more than 22,000 people, making it one of the largest office buildings in the world.
The virus — which has already killed more than 7,000 people and infected more than 179,000 people around the world — is spreading from the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, the largest of all geographic combatant commands.
Currently, there are 37 known cases of COVID-19 within the Department of Defense: 18 active-duty service members, three civil servants, 13 dependents and three contractors.
"At the Department of Defense, we are set up so that our commanders and our leaders can do their jobs from anywhere in the world at any time. We are able to take advantage of that probably to an extent that even major companies and others aren't able to. So, we are going to continue to do what we need to protect the leadership and the workforce," Hoffman said.


cnbc--2020-03-16--Canada closing borders to noncitizens because of coronavirus, U.S. citizens exempt from ban 'for the

Canada closing borders to noncitizens because of coronavirus, U.S. citizens exempt from ban 'for the moment'

Canada is closing its borders to noncitizens because of the coronavirus pandemic , but Prime Minister Justin Trudeau noted that the ban does not apply to U.S. citizens `` for the moment . ''
`` We can still slow the spread of this virus , '' Trudeau said at a press conference at Rideau Cottage in Ottawa , where he announced the border closing .
`` It is time to take every precaution to keep people safe . ''
Canada will make some exceptions to the border closure .
And the ban does not affect the shipment of goods into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hours after the president of the European Commission , Ursula von der Leyen , proposed a ban on nonessential , incoming foreign travel for one month in the European Union .
`` We will be denying entry to Canada to people who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents , '' Trudeau said .
`` This measure will carve out some designated exceptions , including for air crews , diplomats , immediate family members of Canadian citizens and , at this time , U.S .
citizens . ''
Trudeau said the exemption for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the level of integration of our two economies . ''
`` I know that these measures are far reaching .
They are exceptional circumstances , calling for exceptional measures , '' he said .
Trudeau has no symptoms , but has been in isolation since last week as a precautionary measure .
There have been nearly 340 reported cases of coronavirus in Canada , with one death related to the virus .
Trudeau said that Canadians who are traveling outside of the country currently should return `` while it is still possible to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be clear , if you 're abroad , it 's time to come home , '' Trudeau said .
And , he noted , `` If you 've just arrived , you must self-isolate for 14 days . ''
`` Anyone who has symptoms will not be able to enter Canada . ''
Only four airports in Canada will accept international flights : Toronto , Montreal , Vancouver and Calgary .
Trudeau 's announcement came as U.S.-based airlines sought federal assistance of more than $ 50 billion to help them deal with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus outbreak .

Canada is closing its borders to noncitizens because of the coronavirus pandemic, but Prime Minister Justin Trudeau noted that the ban does not apply to U.S. citizens "for the moment."
"We can still slow the spread of this virus," Trudeau said at a press conference at Rideau Cottage in Ottawa, where he announced the border closing.
"It is time to take every precaution to keep people safe."
Canada will make some exceptions to the border closure. And the ban does not affect the shipment of goods into the country.
Trudeau's announcement came hours after the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, proposed a ban on nonessential, incoming foreign travel for one month in the European Union.
"We will be denying entry to Canada to people who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents," Trudeau said.
"This measure will carve out some designated exceptions, including for air crews, diplomats, immediate family members of Canadian citizens and, at this time, U.S. citizens."
Trudeau said the exemption for U.S. citizens was warranted because of "the level of integration of our two economies."
"I know that these measures are far reaching. They are exceptional circumstances, calling for exceptional measures," he said.
Trudeau's wife, Sophie Gregoire, tested positive for COVID-19 last week.
Trudeau has no symptoms, but has been in isolation since last week as a precautionary measure.
Tweet
There have been nearly 340 reported cases of coronavirus in Canada, with one death related to the virus.
Trudeau said that Canadians who are traveling outside of the country currently should return "while it is still possible to do so."
"Let me be clear, if you're abroad, it's time to come home," Trudeau said.
And, he noted, "If you've just arrived, you must self-isolate for 14 days."
"Anyone who has symptoms will not be able to enter Canada."
Only four airports in Canada will accept international flights: Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver and Calgary.
Trudeau's announcement came as U.S.-based airlines sought federal assistance of more than $50 billion to help them deal with the hit to their bottom lines from the coronavirus outbreak.
-- Additional reporting by Kevin Breuninger.


cnbc--2020-03-16--Silicon Valley executives plot investment blitz with charities, groups to help fight coronavirus

Silicon Valley executives huddled on a conference call on Friday to discuss ways they can use their money and vast resources to help fend off the coronavirus that 's spreading throughout the United States .
CEOs and executives from Facebook , Apple , the San Francisco 49ers , Twitter , Netflix , Alphabet and Salesforce were invited to take part in the call , which was organized by Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins .
Top Silicon Valley investor Ron Conway was also invited .
The luminaries were invited to hear from San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo ; Jen Loving , CEO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that fights homelessness in Santa Clara County ; Leslie Baccho , CEO of Second Harvest Silicon Valley ; and Nicole Taylor , CEO Silicon Valley Community Foundation .
CNBC obtained notes of the discussion .
These community leaders spoke to the executives on Friday about `` what is happening 'on the ground ' and the impact on providing services , '' as it pertains to helping combat the coronavirus , the notes say .
California has at least 330 cases of the coronavirus , which causes the illness known as COVID-19 .
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just under 70 recorded deaths in the U.S .
The call is the latest demonstration that corporate America is escalating its effort in addressing the social , economic and health impacts of the rapidly spreading coronavirus .
While it was unclear whether all of the call 's participants are taking part in the group 's endeavors , Conway told CNBC that he has given six figure checks to multiple efforts , including a big donation to the UCSF 's Coronavirus Response Fund .
The university 's research group says on its website that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the virus , along with ensuring necessary housing for patients and equipment for health care workers .
`` Today , more than ever , the world urgently needs the innovation and expertise of the tech community , doctors , and scientists a to help find a cure and a vaccine for the novel coronovirus , '' Conway told CNBC .
`` I 'm proud to contribute to this critical effort along with other tech leaders that will one day save millions of lives here in the United States and around the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ financial means to join me and donate . ''
There were just under 60 companies listed as being invited to take part in the call .
Representatives from more than 35 called in , according to a person briefed on the matter .
Some of those who could not participate have signaled to organizers they are interested in moving ahead with various forms of assistance .
The call 's notes list all of the things executives are being urged to do to help take on the virus , including aggressive financial investments , @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Silicon Valley executives huddled on a conference call on Friday to discuss ways they can use their money and vast resources to help fend off the coronavirus that's spreading throughout the United States.
CEOs and executives from Facebook, Apple, the San Francisco 49ers, Twitter, Netflix, Alphabet and Salesforce were invited to take part in the call, which was organized by Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins. Top Silicon Valley investor Ron Conway was also invited.
The luminaries were invited to hear from San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo; Jen Loving, CEO of Destination: Home, a group that fights homelessness in Santa Clara County; Leslie Baccho, CEO of Second Harvest Silicon Valley; and Nicole Taylor, CEO Silicon Valley Community Foundation. CNBC obtained notes of the discussion.
These community leaders spoke to the executives on Friday about "what is happening 'on the ground' and the impact on providing services," as it pertains to helping combat the coronavirus, the notes say. California has at least 330 cases of the coronavirus, which causes the illness known as COVID-19. There are over 3,700 reported cases nationwide with just under 70 recorded deaths in the U.S.
The call is the latest demonstration that corporate America is escalating its effort in addressing the social, economic and health impacts of the rapidly spreading coronavirus.
While it was unclear whether all of the call's participants are taking part in the group's endeavors, Conway told CNBC that he has given six figure checks to multiple efforts, including a big donation to the UCSF's Coronavirus Response Fund. The university's research group says on its website that it is directing funding toward expanding testing for the virus, along with ensuring necessary housing for patients and equipment for health care workers.
"Today, more than ever, the world urgently needs the innovation and expertise of the tech community, doctors, and scientists a to help find a cure and a vaccine for the novel coronovirus," Conway told CNBC. "I'm proud to contribute to this critical effort along with other tech leaders that will one day save millions of lives here in the United States and around the world, and urge everyone who has the financial means to join me and donate."
There were just under 60 companies listed as being invited to take part in the call. Representatives from more than 35 called in, according to a person briefed on the matter. Some of those who could not participate have signaled to organizers they are interested in moving ahead with various forms of assistance.
The call's notes list all of the things executives are being urged to do to help take on the virus, including aggressive financial investments, volunteerism, research and public advocacy.
Notes from meeting: