usatoday--2020-12-05--Coronavirus updates: Fauci expects 'drastic' restrictions in some areas; model projects more than 50

Coronavirus updates: Fauci expects 'drastic' restrictions in some areas; model projects more than 500,000 US deaths by April

Some areas of the country will likely again need temporary “ drastic ” and “ draconian ” measures — such as shutdowns or the suspension of elective procedures — to protect the nation 's health care system as COVID-19 continues to spread , Dr. Anthony Fauci said Friday .
That 's because the nation is facing a “ surge upon a surge ” of cases that will likely continue to mount , Fauci said in interview with CNN .
The number of coronavirus cases was already growing rapidly before Thanksgiving , a time when many Americans traveled and gathered , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The extent of the Thanksgiving-related surge wo n't fully be known until almost Christmas — when yet another surge of cases may again start , the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director said .
Infections and deaths continued climbing in recent weeks , leading the influential Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation model to project on Friday that the U.S. will surpass half-a-million COVID-19 deaths by April .
Fauci did n't disagree , given the uncertainty of the coming weeks .
But good news continues on the vaccine front , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ candidate vaccines in hand and are ready to start administering doses as soon as they receive the official emergency use authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration .
Here 's what to know : • Health officers in six San Francisco Bay Areas counties have issued a new stay-at-home order ahead of a state plan .
• Student loan borrowers wo n't have to make payments on federal student loans until the end of January , the U.S. Education Department said Friday , extending a pandemic-era reprieve through the first days of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ employers added a disappointing 245,000 jobs in November despite the looming halt of extended jobless benefits and other federal lifelines for millions of Americans .
📈 Today 's numbers : The U.S. has reported more than 14 million cases and over 279,000 deaths , according to Johns Hopkins University data .
The global totals : 66 million cases and 1.5 million deaths .
📰 What we 're reading : Will you be required to get vaccinated ?
The short answer is yes , for some Americans .
But not anytime soon , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ why .
This file will be updated throughout the day .
For updates in your inbox , subscribe to The Daily Briefing newsletter .
Hospitals brace for crisis-care mode : Too many patients , not enough staff COVID-19 deaths and hospitalizations are at record levels and the rising case toll from Americans ' holiday travel has created an unprecedented surge with no relief in sight .
The problem is especially ominous in the nation ’ s intensive care units – specialized units crowded with a record number of critically ill Americans as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the pandemic .
On Thursday , California announced stay-at-home orders for regions where intensive care units are nearly full .
A growing chorus of medical experts say hospitals and states must prepare to shift to crisis-care mode , a designation with standards for hospitals to navigate life-and-death decisions when they become overwhelmed .
Crisis standards mean hospitals with too many patients and not enough staff likely will need to triage patients , prioritizing care to those mostly likely to benefit when demand outstrips resources .
“ What we see now is just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” said Eric Toner , senior scholar with the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security .
“ It ’ s going to be huge and it ’ s going to be awful.
” Read more .
‘ A lot more ’ must be done to distribute vaccine , Biden says President-elect Joe Biden said more must be done to plan the distribution of vaccines for COVID-19 after they are approved , but that his health advisers are developing plans .
“ There ’ s a lot more that has to be done , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is no detailed plan that we ’ ve seen anyway about how you get the vaccine out of a container into an injection syringe and into an arm.
” He called the anticipated distribution “ difficult and expensive.
” He also said it must be equitable , to ensure that communities of color receive vaccinations beyond those distributed through major drugstore chains that might not have offices in all neighborhoods .
“ We ’ ve got a lot of work to do , ” Biden said .
COVID-19 side effects mean your body @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will likely experience at least one side effect from the COVID-19 vaccine , but doctors say that ’ s normal and you should still get vaccinated .
In Moderna ’ s trials , where more than half of Phase 1 study participants experienced some side effect , the company said the most common side effects in Phase 3 were fatigue , muscle soreness and aches , joint pain , headache , and pain , redness or swelling at the injection site .
In Pfizer/BioNTech Phase 3 trials , the probability of getting fatigued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 % , respectively .
Dr. Melanie Swift , an occupational medicine physician helping lead the COVID-19 vaccination plan at the Mayo Clinic , said it ’ s important to educate Americans about the vaccines ’ side effects or it may deter people from getting the second dose .
“ Just because you ’ re sore doesn ’ t mean that ( the vaccine ) didn ’ t work or wasn ’ t effective .
It just means that your body responded the way it ’ s supposed to , ” she said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take both doses or that first dose was all for nothing.
” Read more here .
In your inbox : Stay up to date with the latest news on the coronavirus pandemic from the USA TODAY Network .
Sign up for the daily Coronavirus Watch newsletter .
Tips for coping : Every Saturday and Tuesday we 'll be in your inbox , offering you a virtual hug and a little bit of solace in these difficult times .
Sign up for Staying Apart , Together .
On Facebook : A lot is still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we do know , we 're sharing with you .
Join our Facebook group , Coronavirus Watch , to receive daily updates in your feed and chat with others in the community about COVID-19 .

Coronavirus updates: Southern California to enter lockdown; daily cases reach another record
Show Caption Hide Caption COVID-19: 3 tips on saying no to social gatherings during the pandemic Elaine Swann, lifestyle expert and founder of The Swann School of Protocol, explains how to turn down a social gathering politely during the pandemic. USA TODAY
Some areas of the country will likely again need temporary “drastic” and “draconian” measures — such as shutdowns or the suspension of elective procedures — to protect the nation's health care system as COVID-19 continues to spread, Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said Friday.
That's because the nation is facing a “surge upon a surge” of cases that will likely continue to mount, Fauci said in interview with CNN. The number of coronavirus cases was already growing rapidly before Thanksgiving, a time when many Americans traveled and gathered, likely further escalating the virus' reach.
The extent of the Thanksgiving-related surge won't fully be known until almost Christmas — when yet another surge of cases may again start, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director Fauci said.
Infections and deaths continued climbing in recent weeks, leading the influential Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation model to project on Friday that the U.S. will surpass half-a-million COVID-19 deaths by April. Fauci didn't disagree, given the uncertainty of the coming weeks.
But good news continues on the vaccine front, he said. Some hospitals already have candidate vaccines in hand and are ready to start administering doses as soon as they receive the official emergency use authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Here's what to know:
Coronavirus infections reached a new daily high of nearly 228,000 cases on Friday. The 227,885 cases eclipses the previous high of more than 217,000 on Thursday, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University.
of nearly 228,000 cases on Friday. The 227,885 cases eclipses the previous high of more than 217,000 on Thursday, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University. Health officers in six San Francisco Bay Areas counties have issued a new stay-at-home order ahead of a state plan.
have issued a new stay-at-home order ahead of a state plan. Student loan borrowers won't have to make payments on federal student loans until the end of January, the U.S. Education Department said Friday, extending a pandemic-era reprieve through the first days of the Joe Biden presidency.
won't have to make payments on federal student loans until the end of January, the U.S. Education Department said Friday, extending a pandemic-era reprieve through the first days of the Joe Biden presidency. U.S. employers added a disappointing 245,000 jobs in November despite the looming halt of extended jobless benefits and other federal lifelines for millions of Americans.
📈 Today's numbers: The U.S. has reported more than 14.5 million cases and over 281,000 deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University data. The global totals: 66 million cases and 1.5 million deaths.
📰 What we're reading: Will you be required to get vaccinated? The short answer is yes, for some Americans. But not anytime soon, and not by the federal government. Read why.
This file will be updated throughout the day. For updates in your inbox, subscribe to The Daily Briefing newsletter.
The vast region of Southern California was placed under new lockdown orders as the state scrambles to slow the rapid escalation of coronavirus cases that threatens to overwhelm hospitals.
The California Department of Public Health announced Saturday that a shortage of intensive care beds in the 11-county Southern California region had triggered the new measures, which take effect Sunday evening. The region includes the cities of Los Angeles and San Diego and is home to about 24 million people, almost half of the state’s population. Earlier Saturday, the order was also put in effect for the San Joaquin Valley in central California.
The new state stay-at-home order bans all on-site restaurant dining and closes hair and nail salons, movie theaters and many other businesses, as well as museums and playgrounds. It stays in effect for at least three weeks. It also means people may not congregate with anyone outside their household and must always wear masks when they go outside.
Some Southern California law enforcement officials have said they will not enforce stay-at-home orders, with Orange County and Riverside County sheriffs publicly criticizing Gov. Gavin Newsom in confrontational statements that stressed individual responsibility.
Five San Francisco Bay Area counties have also imposed a new stay-at-home order for their residents that will take effect Sunday, although the region is not yet been required to do so by the state. Separately, Los Angeles County announced a stay-home order last week.
— The Associated Press
Dr. Marvin James Farr was born into an America where neighbors were willing to die for their fellow citizens. But he died Tuesday in a very different country – one where "many of his fellow Americans refuse to wear a piece of cloth on their face to protect one another."
That's according to a widely shared obituary written by one of Farr's five surviving children, Courtney Farr, that criticizes Americans who have "disparaged and abandoned" science amid the coronavirus pandemic.
"He died with covid-19, and his final days were harder, scarier and lonelier than necessary. He was not surrounded by friends and family," his son wrote in the obituary posted on the website of Price & Sons Funeral Home.
– Grace Hauck
A family physician has been suspended by the Oregon Medical Board after publicly stating he and his staff are not wearing masks in his clinic during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr. Steven LaTulippe, owner of South View Medical Arts, also compared the SARS-CoV-2 virus to a "common cold virus," and challenged Gov. Kate Brown's authority in her efforts to slow the spread of the disease.
The Oregon Medical Board suspended his license Thursday "due to the Board's concern for the safety and welfare" of LaTulippe's patients.
– Virginia Barreda, Salem Statesman Journal
A 26-year-old Nashville nurse was fatally shot Thursday night, Metro Nashville police said. Police on Friday identified the woman as Caitlyn Kaufman, who worked at St. Thomas West Hospital in Nashville. Detectives believe the shooting happened while Kaufman was on her way to work.
Kaufman died quickly at the scene after being shot at least once, police said. As of Friday night the woman's killer remained at large, police said, and a motive in the killing wasn't clear.
"It's just incredibly heartbreaking and sad given her profession," said Metro Nashville Police Department spokesman Don Aaron.
– Natalie Neysa Alund, Rachel Wegner and Brinley Hineman, Nashville Tennessean
Coronavirus infections continue to spread at record levels in the United States, reaching a new daily high of nearly 228,000 cases on Friday. The 227,885 cases eclipses the previous high of more than 217,000 on Thursday, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University.
The seven-day rolling average of COVID-19 attributable deaths in the U.S. has passed 2,000 for the first time at 2,011. Two weeks ago, the seven-day average was 1,448. There were 2,607 deaths reported in the U.S. on Friday.
Globally, Johns Hopkins reports more than 1.5 million people have died from the coronavirus pandemic, including more than 279,000 in the United States.
– Associated Press
COVID-19 deaths and hospitalizations are at record levels and the rising case toll from Americans' holiday travel has created an unprecedented surge with no relief in sight. The problem is especially ominous in the nation’s intensive care units – specialized units crowded with a record number of critically ill Americans as the nation struggles through the most dangerous phase of the pandemic.
On Thursday, California announced stay-at-home orders for regions where intensive care units are nearly full. A growing chorus of medical experts say hospitals and states must prepare to shift to crisis-care mode, a designation with standards for hospitals to navigate life-and-death decisions when they become overwhelmed.
Crisis standards mean hospitals with too many patients and not enough staff likely will need to triage patients, prioritizing care to those mostly likely to benefit when demand outstrips resources.
“What we see now is just the beginning of the post-Thanksgiving peak,” said Eric Toner, senior scholar with the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security. “It’s going to be huge and it’s going to be awful.” Read more.
– Ken Alltucker
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, U.S. Sen. Rand Paul and 36 other senators publicly showed their support Friday for Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron's federal lawsuit challenging Gov. Andy Beshear's order prohibiting public and private K-12 schools from holding in-person classes until January.
McConnell, who has been a mentor to Cameron, submitted an amicus brief Friday to the U.S. Supreme Court along with Paul and many of their Republican Senate colleagues backing the case the state attorney general and Danville Christian Academy recently brought against Beshear.
The lawsuit challenges the Democrat's decision to force religious private schools to switch to virtual classes because of spiking COVID-19 cases in the state.
– Morgan Watkins and Billy Kobin, Louisville Courier Journal
Thousands of doctors, teachers and others in high-risk groups have signed up Saturday for a coronavirus vaccination in Moscow.
The vaccination effort comes three days after President Vladimir Putin ordered the launch of a “large-scale” immunization campaign even though a Russian-designed vaccine has yet to complete the advanced studies needed to ensure its effectiveness and safety in line with established scientific protocols.
The Russian leader said Wednesday that more than 2 million doses of the Sputnik V shot will be available in the next few days, allowing authorities to offer shots to medical workers and teachers across the country starting late next week.
On Saturday, Russia reported a record 28,782 daily cases, including 7,993 in Moscow. Russia’s 2.4 million confirmed cases is the fourth-largest caseload in the world behind the United States, India and Brazil. There’s been 42,684 total confirmed deaths in Russia.
– Associated Press
President-elect Joe Biden said more must be done to plan the distribution of vaccines for COVID-19 after they are approved, but that his health advisers are developing plans.
“There’s a lot more that has to be done,” Biden told reporters. “There is no detailed plan that we’ve seen anyway about how you get the vaccine out of a container into an injection syringe and into an arm.”
He called the anticipated distribution “difficult and expensive.” He also said it must be equitable, to ensure that communities of color receive vaccinations beyond those distributed through major drugstore chains that might not have offices in all neighborhoods.
“We’ve got a lot of work to do,” Biden said.
— Michael Collins and Bart Jansen
Americans will likely experience at least one side effect from the COVID-19 vaccine, but doctors say that’s normal and you should still get vaccinated.
In Moderna’s trials, where more than half of Phase 1 study participants experienced some side effect, the company said the most common side effects in Phase 3 were fatigue, muscle soreness and aches, joint pain, headache, and pain, redness or swelling at the injection site. In Pfizer/BioNTech Phase 3 trials, the probability of getting fatigued or a headache was 3.8% and 2%, respectively.
Dr. Melanie Swift, an occupational medicine physician helping lead the COVID-19 vaccination plan at the Mayo Clinic, said it’s important to educate Americans about the vaccines’ side effects or it may deter people from getting the second dose.
“Just because you’re sore doesn’t mean that (the vaccine) didn’t work or wasn’t effective. It just means that your body responded the way it’s supposed to,” she said. “It’s important to take both doses or that first dose was all for nothing.” Read more here.
– Adrianna Rodriguez
Coronavirus: How vaccines are developed and tested Pressure to create a coronavirus vaccine is increasing by the day, but for a safe vaccine to enter the market, it takes time. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
COVID-19 resources from USA TODAY
In your inbox: Stay up to date with the latest news on the coronavirus pandemic from the USA TODAY Network. Sign up for the daily Coronavirus Watch newsletter.
Tips for coping: Every Saturday and Tuesday we'll be in your inbox, offering you a virtual hug and a little bit of solace in these difficult times. Sign up for Staying Apart, Together.
On Facebook: A lot is still unknown about the coronavirus. But what we do know, we're sharing with you. Join our Facebook group, Coronavirus Watch, to receive daily updates in your feed and chat with others in the community about COVID-19.
Contributing: The Associated Press


usatoday--2020-12-05--Cleveland Browns star defensive end Myles Garrett: COVID-19 'kicked my butt'

Myles Garrett ’ s body ached .
His head ached .
He had a fever .
His eyes hurt .
He was coughing and sneezing and lost his sense of smell for almost two weeks .
As the Cleveland Browns ' star defensive end laid on his couch as COVID-19 “ kicked my butt , ” he never figured out how he contracted the virus .
“ None of my family members , none of my parents [ recently ] , none of my friends that have been around me , none of them have tested positive , ” Garrett @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of worrisome because I don ’ t know if I got it here , I don ’ t know if I got it in the game .
I don ’ t really go out to eat ...
I try to eat at home .
Really not sure whether I got it at the market picking up groceries .
2020 ’ s been interesting .
We ’ re all just trying to carry on through it.
” But as he returns after missing the past two games , Garrett is certain of one thing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ level of performance to slip in Sunday ’ s showdown against the Tennessee Titans in Nashville .
“ I ’ m not here to make a cameo appearance , or a second-rate arrival .
I ’ m here to do the job that I was doing before , ” Garrett said Friday via Zoom .
“ I don ’ t think there will be any drop-off .
I wouldn ’ t give anything other than my best , and I feel like that ’ s at the very top of the defensive line @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reserve/COVID-19 list Tuesday and was back at practice Wednesday .
“ I felt a little stiff , just moving around , felt like I had been on the couch for about a month instead of two weeks , but once I got everything going and moving I kind of got in the groove of it again , ” he said .
Garrett ’ s return will give his teammates a boost , but Browns coach Kevin Stefanski knows he will have to watch Garrett ’ s snap count .
“ He looks really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As you would expect , he ’ s excited .
We will just monitor him throughout the game and make sure he is ready to go .
If we need to give him a blow , we will give him a blow.
” Garrett said the Browns medical staff told him there was nothing abnormal about his lungs or heart , which he said was a concern after he read Buffalo Bills tight end Tommy Sweeney had been diagnosed with myocarditis after a bout with COVID-19 .
“ That was my main worry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my lungs are a little bit heavy , if I ’ m tired or anything happens where I ’ m a little bit out of breath , I ’ ll fight through that .
But there ’ s nothing you can do with the heart , you can ’ t play with that , there ’ s no getting around it .
“ If that was what happened , then I would just be there for my guys the best I could , but I was very fortunate and blessed to be able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to make this push towards the playoffs.
” As he talked about his symptoms , Garrett said his parents battled coronavirus before the season began .
“ My parents had it , kicked their butt .
I had it , kicked my butt , ” he said .
“ I was in pain .
It wasn ’ t great.
” Week 13 picks : Rams , Cardinals try to make up ground in NFC West Spoilers:7 NFL teams positioned to be playoff spoilers in 2020 More NFL : Do n't think there are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Here are 20 .
Garrett played in a Nov. 15 home victory over the Houston Texans and tested positive on Nov. 20 .
He stayed away from Browns headquarters with an illness the previous two days , but said he didn ’ t expect it to be COVID-19 .
“ Just coughing and sneezing .
I kept on trying to clear my throat .
Kept on coughing .
Nose kind of got congested .
I did n't think much of it , but I did n't want to expose anybody to it if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” Garrett said .
Asked if he was shocked when his test came back positive , Garrett said , “ Absolutely.
” Garrett has a gym at his home , but wasn ’ t able to do much to stay in condition .
“ Tried to get just a little bit of weightlifting in , but they told me to stay away from lifting and cardio just because they didn ’ t know what kind of effects it would be on my heart and my lungs , ” he said .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a little bit here and there , tried to stretch so I wasn ’ t so stiff when I came back .
Really , I was forced to lay on the couch and watch my team carry on .
They did well.
” Garrett said it was harder watching the Browns on Sundays than not being able to work out , but they pulled out victories over the Philadelphia Eagles and Jacksonville Jaguars without him .
“ Honestly , with everything that was going on and how sick I was , if it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I feel like I could go out there and play regardless .
Especially the second game .
I felt almost completely fine , ” he said of the game in Jacksonville .
“ But just the nature of what ’ s going on right now in the world that I just had to watch and hope they just kept on going .
They did their best , and we came out on the right side.
” Garrett is tied for third in the league in sacks with 9.5 , but isn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stats .
“ It ’ s just about making the plays that I ’ m supposed to make .
If I ’ m out there and I can make some sacks , some forced fumbles , some game-changing plays , I ’ m going to go do it , ” he said .
“ But if I can put my teammates in position to do those same things , I ’ m also going to provide those avenues for them .
I ’ m not going to put myself before them and try @ @ @ @ @ @ @ empty if they don ’ t lead to a win , don ’ t lead to us getting off the field or takeaways .
I ’ m just trying to do whatever I can for us to have the best chance of succeeding together.
” Garrett remains in the conversation for NFL Defensive Player the Year behind the Los Angeles Rams ’ Aaron Donald and the Pittsburgh Steelers ’ T.J. Watt , but Garrett is not focused on that .
“ Of course , I see T.J. , he ’ s not only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but he ’ s in my division , so I have to keep an eye on him , their defense and how they are performing so well , ” Garrett said .
“ Whether he sets the bar high or not , I just have to go in and perform up to my standards .
Whatever happens after that , happens , and I am not going to be too revved up on whether I win DPOY or I don ’ t .
“ I ’ m just hoping that we go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the ultimate prize at the end of the day .
If I ’ m able to pick up some individual achievements along that way , then all glory to God .
”

Cleveland Browns star defensive end Myles Garrett: COVID-19 'kicked my butt'
Show Caption Hide Caption Lorenzo's Locks: Three best bets to consider for NFL Week 13 SportsPulse: Week 12 was a nightmare for bettors. Lorenzo Reyes is here to provide an oasis and the three best bets for Week 13 in the NFL. USA TODAY
Myles Garrett’s body ached. His head ached. He had a fever. His eyes hurt. He was coughing and sneezing and lost his sense of smell for almost two weeks.
As the Cleveland Browns' star defensive end laid on his couch as COVID-19 “kicked my butt,” he never figured out how he contracted the virus.
“None of my family members, none of my parents [recently], none of my friends that have been around me, none of them have tested positive,” Garrett said.
“It’s kind of worrisome because I don’t know if I got it here, I don’t know if I got it in the game. I don’t really go out to eat ... I try to eat at home. Really not sure whether I got it at the market picking up groceries. 2020’s been interesting. We’re all just trying to carry on through it.”
But as he returns after missing the past two games, Garrett is certain of one thing: He doesn’t expect his level of performance to slip in Sunday’s showdown against the Tennessee Titans in Nashville.
“I’m not here to make a cameo appearance, or a second-rate arrival. I’m here to do the job that I was doing before,” Garrett said Friday via Zoom. “I don’t think there will be any drop-off. I wouldn’t give anything other than my best, and I feel like that’s at the very top of the defensive line rankings.”
Garrett was activated off the reserve/COVID-19 list Tuesday and was back at practice Wednesday.
“I felt a little stiff, just moving around, felt like I had been on the couch for about a month instead of two weeks, but once I got everything going and moving I kind of got in the groove of it again,” he said.
Garrett’s return will give his teammates a boost, but Browns coach Kevin Stefanski knows he will have to watch Garrett’s snap count.
“He looks really good,” Stefanski said. “As you would expect, he’s excited. We will just monitor him throughout the game and make sure he is ready to go. If we need to give him a blow, we will give him a blow.”
Garrett said the Browns medical staff told him there was nothing abnormal about his lungs or heart, which he said was a concern after he read Buffalo Bills tight end Tommy Sweeney had been diagnosed with myocarditis after a bout with COVID-19.
“That was my main worry,” Garrett said. “If my lungs are a little bit heavy, if I’m tired or anything happens where I’m a little bit out of breath, I’ll fight through that. But there’s nothing you can do with the heart, you can’t play with that, there’s no getting around it.
“If that was what happened, then I would just be there for my guys the best I could, but I was very fortunate and blessed to be able to come back and keep on trying to make this push towards the playoffs.”
As he talked about his symptoms, Garrett said his parents battled coronavirus before the season began.
“My parents had it, kicked their butt. I had it, kicked my butt,” he said. “I was in pain. It wasn’t great.”
Week 13 picks: Rams, Cardinals try to make up ground in NFC West
Spoilers: 7 NFL teams positioned to be playoff spoilers in 2020
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Garrett played in a Nov. 15 home victory over the Houston Texans and tested positive on Nov. 20. He stayed away from Browns headquarters with an illness the previous two days, but said he didn’t expect it to be COVID-19.
“Just coughing and sneezing. I kept on trying to clear my throat. Kept on coughing. Nose kind of got congested. I didn't think much of it, but I didn't want to expose anybody to it if those were symptoms leading up to it,” Garrett said.
Asked if he was shocked when his test came back positive, Garrett said, “Absolutely.”
Garrett has a gym at his home, but wasn’t able to do much to stay in condition.
“Tried to get just a little bit of weightlifting in, but they told me to stay away from lifting and cardio just because they didn’t know what kind of effects it would be on my heart and my lungs,” he said. “Tried to do my best to get a little bit here and there, tried to stretch so I wasn’t so stiff when I came back. Really, I was forced to lay on the couch and watch my team carry on. They did well.”
Garrett said it was harder watching the Browns on Sundays than not being able to work out, but they pulled out victories over the Philadelphia Eagles and Jacksonville Jaguars without him.
“Honestly, with everything that was going on and how sick I was, if it was the flu or something less contagious, I feel like I could go out there and play regardless. Especially the second game. I felt almost completely fine,” he said of the game in Jacksonville. “But just the nature of what’s going on right now in the world that I just had to watch and hope they just kept on going. They did their best, and we came out on the right side.”
Garrett is tied for third in the league in sacks with 9.5, but isn’t pushing to add to his personal stats.
“It’s just about making the plays that I’m supposed to make. If I’m out there and I can make some sacks, some forced fumbles, some game-changing plays, I’m going to go do it,” he said. “But if I can put my teammates in position to do those same things, I’m also going to provide those avenues for them. I’m not going to put myself before them and try to get stats. They’re empty if they don’t lead to a win, don’t lead to us getting off the field or takeaways. I’m just trying to do whatever I can for us to have the best chance of succeeding together.”
Garrett remains in the conversation for NFL Defensive Player the Year behind the Los Angeles Rams’ Aaron Donald and the Pittsburgh Steelers’ T.J. Watt, but Garrett is not focused on that.
“Of course, I see T.J., he’s not only one of the best in the league, but he’s in my division, so I have to keep an eye on him, their defense and how they are performing so well,” Garrett said. “Whether he sets the bar high or not, I just have to go in and perform up to my standards. Whatever happens after that, happens, and I am not going to be too revved up on whether I win DPOY or I don’t.
“I’m just hoping that we go to the playoffs and we can win the ultimate prize at the end of the day. If I’m able to pick up some individual achievements along that way, then all glory to God.”


usatoday--2020-12-05--Head's up! Here comes the Geminid meteor shower!

• The Geminids are expected to peak on the night of December 13-14 .
• Shooting stars will start to streak across the sky as early as 9 or 10 p.m. local time .
• Geminid meteors are bright and fast ( 79,000 mph ) , and the shower is famous for producing fireballs .
In addition to the upcoming Jupiter-Saturn conjunction , skywatchers this month will also get to enjoy the Geminid meteor shower , which is considered to be one of the best showers of the year .
The Geminids are expected to peak on the night of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , according to EarthSky .
`` You should see a decent spattering of meteors on the preceding nights as well .
And you might catch a Geminid meteor anytime this week , as the shower builds to its peak , '' EarthSky 's Bruce McLure said .
During its peak , 120 Geminid meteors can be seen per hour under perfect conditions , NASA said .
The Geminids are bright and fast meteors and tend to be yellow in color .
Also , according to AccuWeather , the Geminids are a great @ @ @ @ @ @ @ active all night long .
Shooting stars will start to streak across the sky as early as 9 or 10 p.m. local time .
However , the peak of the shower tends to be in the middle of the night , starting around 2 a.m. Worlds align this winter solstice : Look for Jupiter , Saturn in skies this December This year will be particularly good for watching the Geminids as it peaks on a moonless night , AccuWeather said , allowing stargazers to see the shower ’ s full potential in areas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are bright and fast ( 79,000 mph ) , and the shower is famous for producing fireballs , which are meteors brighter than magnitude -4 , the same magnitude as the planet Venus .
The Geminids are named for the constellation Gemini , the point from which the meteors seem to radiate .
Although the meteors will appear to stream away from Gemini , Space.com said , they can appear all across the sky .
For best results , look slightly away from Gemini so that you can see meteors with longer `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staring directly at Gemini will just show you meteors that do n't travel very far .
This meteor shower is active every December when Earth passes through a massive trail of dusty debris shed by a rocky object named 3200 Phaethon , NASA said .
The dust and grit burn up when they run into Earth 's atmosphere in a flurry of `` shooting stars . ''
Phaethon ’ s nature is debated .
It ’ s either a near-Earth asteroid or an extinct comet , sometimes called a rock comet , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ require binoculars or telescopes to view – just your bare eyes and some patience .
The Geminids were first noted as a minor meteor shower back in 1862 , NASA reported .
At the time of the Civil War , the shower 's peak rate was about 30 meteors an hour .
`` Since then , the Geminids have gradually strengthened to become the strongest annual shower , '' NASA astronomer Bill Cooke said .
`` This is due to Jupiter 's gravity nudging the stream closer to Earth . ''
'The Ultimate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ huge telescope on the moon to study the Big Bang More : Radio bursts detected from within our own Milky Way galaxy for first time

The Geminid meteor shower, famous for producing fireballs, peaks this weekend
Show Caption Hide Caption Geminid meteor shower, one of the year's best to watch The yearly winter sky spectacle, the Geminid meteor shower brings 50-120 meteors per hour at its peak. USA TODAY
The Geminids are expected to peak on the night of December 13-14.
Shooting stars will start to streak across the sky as early as 9 or 10 p.m. local time.
Geminid meteors are bright and fast (79,000 mph), and the shower is famous for producing fireballs.
In addition to the upcoming Jupiter-Saturn conjunction, skywatchers this month will also get to enjoy the Geminid meteor shower, which is considered to be one of the best showers of the year.
The Geminids are expected to peak on the night of Dec.13-14 (Sunday evening until dawn Monday), according to EarthSky.
"You should see a decent spattering of meteors on the preceding nights as well. And you might catch a Geminid meteor anytime this week, as the shower builds to its peak," EarthSky's Bruce McLure said.
During its peak, 120 Geminid meteors can be seen per hour under perfect conditions, NASA said. The Geminids are bright and fast meteors and tend to be yellow in color.
Also, according to AccuWeather, the Geminids are a great shower for younger stargazers as they are active all night long. Shooting stars will start to streak across the sky as early as 9 or 10 p.m. local time.
However, the peak of the shower tends to be in the middle of the night, starting around 2 a.m.
Worlds align this winter solstice: Look for Jupiter, Saturn in skies this December
This year will be particularly good for watching the Geminids as it peaks on a moonless night, AccuWeather said, allowing stargazers to see the shower’s full potential in areas away from light pollution.
Geminid meteors are bright and fast (79,000 mph), and the shower is famous for producing fireballs, which are meteors brighter than magnitude -4, the same magnitude as the planet Venus.
The Geminids are named for the constellation Gemini, the point from which the meteors seem to radiate.
Although the meteors will appear to stream away from Gemini, Space.com said, they can appear all across the sky. For best results, look slightly away from Gemini so that you can see meteors with longer "tails" as they streak by; staring directly at Gemini will just show you meteors that don't travel very far.
This meteor shower is active every December when Earth passes through a massive trail of dusty debris shed by a rocky object named 3200 Phaethon, NASA said. The dust and grit burn up when they run into Earth's atmosphere in a flurry of "shooting stars."
Phaethon’s nature is debated. It’s either a near-Earth asteroid or an extinct comet, sometimes called a rock comet, according to NASA.
Meteor showers don't require binoculars or telescopes to view – just your bare eyes and some patience.
The Geminids were first noted as a minor meteor shower back in 1862, NASA reported.
At the time of the Civil War, the shower's peak rate was about 30 meteors an hour. "Since then, the Geminids have gradually strengthened to become the strongest annual shower," NASA astronomer Bill Cooke said. "This is due to Jupiter's gravity nudging the stream closer to Earth."


usatoday--2020-12-05--5 NFL rookies who need to step up as postseason draws near

NFL teams across the league are starting to mount their final pushes for the postseason .
And while each team 's stars will be the focal point in making sure that happens , how a team 's supporting cast fares often is what can elevate a team from a playoff squad to a legitimate contender .
And often , it 's rookies who start to blossom late in their first seasons that can boost a team 's chances in January – and even into February .
Here are five rookies who need to step up for their teams to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lot of fans bag on the NFC East ( with good reason ) for being the weakest division in football .
While that may be the case , Washington ( 4-7 ) might be the team best positioned to finish first and host a playoff game .
Gibson ranks 12th in rushing yards with 645 .
But the positive for Washington is that the third-round pick out of Memphis has steadily improved as the season has progressed .
Though Gibson has started seven of Washington 's 11 games , he gained just 243 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contests .
But over the last five games , Gibson has gained 402 , averaging a 5.4 yards per carry with eight touchdowns .
Most importantly , Washington is 3-2 over the last five , compared with 1-5 over the first six .
It 's pretty clear : when Gibson and the Washington rushing game can get steady production , the team fares better .
Indianapolis already has another standout rookie , safety Julian Blackmon , who is making game-changing plays .
But Blackmon is already fairly consistent .
What the Colts need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jr. to take the next step .
His numbers are fairly pedestrian ( 26 catches , 330 yards , one touchdown ) .
But considering that Indy 's leading receiver , T.Y .
Hilton has only 408 yards , it shows that there 's room for someone to break out .
And when Pittman has had moments , he has shown that he can create big plays .
Part of Pittman 's somewhat slow start has been that he 's still figuring out the nuances of playing the position in the NFL , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But he also dealt with a lower leg injury that forced him to miss three games .
Given his size at 6-foot-4 , his understanding of how to use that frame to box out defensive backs and his speed , Pittman is poised to eventually become Indianapolis ' ( 7-4 ) top target .
Quarterback Philip Rivers and the Colts need that .
OK , so two caveats .
First , everyone points to rookie running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire as the most important rookie for the Chiefs , but their offense is already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chiefs are poised to make a deep run regardless .
Linebacker Willie Gay stepping up over the final stretch , however , is what can elevate a team that is already a favorite to repeat as Super Bowl champions .
Gay , the second-to-last pick of the second round , has n't played much for Kansas City ( 10-1 ) this year .
The Chiefs typically deploy him in three-linebacker sets , which – given the pass-heavy tendencies of the modern NFL – is n't often .
In fact , a # freeWillieGay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , asking that he get more playing time .
It 's not working .
In Week 12 's 27-24 victory against the Buccaneers , Gay played just one snap .
But when Gay has been on the field , he has thrived .
Using his speed , Gay is quick to diagnose plays and usually finds himself in position to make tackles .
That quickness is also vital in pass coverage .
And since the Chiefs are tied for 23rd in the NFL in rushing defense , allowing 128.2 yards a game , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As the 49ers ( 5-6 ) find themselves in an uphill climb to make the playoffs , they need Kinlaw to play like he has the last two weeks .
One game after generating his first career sack ( he actually ended up with 1.5 ) , Kinlaw showed his versatility and ability to read a quarterback when he deftly dropped into coverage and picked off Rams quarterback Jared Goff before he returned it for a touchdown in a crucial victory against a division rival .
`` I was really supposed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to drop and step back , '' Kinlaw said after the game .
`` I saw the ball come out so I was like : 'Yeah , we 're going to the crib . '
`` After veteran defensive tackle Solomon Thomas tore his anterior cruciate ligament in Week 2 , the team suddenly needed Kinlaw to step up .
And though he has performed well in clogging rushing lanes and stopping the run , Kinlaw has struggled when facing double teams .
But the anticipation that led to the pick-six , if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in keeping the San Francisco defense as dangerous as it has been .
This one might seem obvious , but Tagovailoa 's short stint as the starter has been mixed .
But for the Dolphins ( 7-4 ) – who are the current No .
6 seed in the AFC – to clinch their first playoff spot since the 2016 season , Miami needs Tagovailoa to be , at best , good , but more likely , great .
The Dolphins ' schedule is n't favorable , with matchups against the Chiefs ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Raiders ( 6-5 ) and Bills ( 8-3 ) following this weekend 's game against the Bengals .
Tagovailoa has had success when he can mix standing in the pocket to deliver throws , while also using his mobility on plays like play-action rollouts and extending plays to find open targets down the field .
Look at the 34-31 victory against the Cardinals in Week 9 as an example .
But Week 11 's 20-13 loss against the Broncos was the opposite ; Tagovailoa was flustered by a constant pass rush and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for him to have many more games like that .

5 NFL rookies who need to step up as postseason draws near
Show Caption Hide Caption Lorenzo's Locks: Three best bets to consider for NFL Week 13 SportsPulse: Week 12 was a nightmare for bettors. Lorenzo Reyes is here to provide an oasis and the three best bets for Week 13 in the NFL. USA TODAY
It's crunch time.
NFL teams across the league are starting to mount their final pushes for the postseason. And while each team's stars will be the focal point in making sure that happens, how a team's supporting cast fares often is what can elevate a team from a playoff squad to a legitimate contender.
And often, it's rookies who start to blossom late in their first seasons that can boost a team's chances in January – and even into February.
Here are five rookies who need to step up for their teams to make deep runs into the postseason.
Antonio Gibson, RB, Washington Football Team
A lot of fans bag on the NFC East (with good reason) for being the weakest division in football. While that may be the case, Washington (4-7) might be the team best positioned to finish first and host a playoff game.
Gibson ranks 12th in rushing yards with 645. But the positive for Washington is that the third-round pick out of Memphis has steadily improved as the season has progressed. Though Gibson has started seven of Washington's 11 games, he gained just 243 yards through the team's first six contests. But over the last five games, Gibson has gained 402, averaging a 5.4 yards per carry with eight touchdowns.
Most importantly, Washington is 3-2 over the last five, compared with 1-5 over the first six. It's pretty clear: when Gibson and the Washington rushing game can get steady production, the team fares better.
Michael Pittman Jr., WR, Indianapolis Colts
Indianapolis already has another standout rookie, safety Julian Blackmon, who is making game-changing plays. But Blackmon is already fairly consistent. What the Colts need is for rookie receiver Michael Pittman, Jr. to take the next step.
His numbers are fairly pedestrian (26 catches, 330 yards, one touchdown). But considering that Indy's leading receiver, T.Y. Hilton has only 408 yards, it shows that there's room for someone to break out. And when Pittman has had moments, he has shown that he can create big plays.
🚨 FIRST NFL TOUCHDOWN FOR MPJ! 🚨
📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/S5jgUrAFsA — Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) November 22, 2020
Part of Pittman's somewhat slow start has been that he's still figuring out the nuances of playing the position in the NFL, as are just about all rookies. But he also dealt with a lower leg injury that forced him to miss three games. Given his size at 6-foot-4, his understanding of how to use that frame to box out defensive backs and his speed, Pittman is poised to eventually become Indianapolis' (7-4) top target. Quarterback Philip Rivers and the Colts need that.
Willie Gay, LB, Kansas City Chiefs
OK, so two caveats. First, everyone points to rookie running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire as the most important rookie for the Chiefs, but their offense is already stacked. And, second, the Chiefs are poised to make a deep run regardless. Linebacker Willie Gay stepping up over the final stretch, however, is what can elevate a team that is already a favorite to repeat as Super Bowl champions.
Gay, the second-to-last pick of the second round, hasn't played much for Kansas City (10-1) this year. The Chiefs typically deploy him in three-linebacker sets, which – given the pass-heavy tendencies of the modern NFL – isn't often. In fact, a #freeWillieGay hashtag has taken off among KC fans, asking that he get more playing time. It's not working. In Week 12's 27-24 victory against the Buccaneers, Gay played just one snap.
Remember the 43-yard run from #Raiders RB Devontae Booker in Week 5? Yeah, #Chiefs LB Willie Gay Jr. saved another long Booker run from happening in Week 11. He's so stinkin' quick to the ball. Only a five-yard gain, could have been much more. pic.twitter.com/av0Q01eK1o — Charles Goldman (@goldmctNFL) November 24, 2020
But when Gay has been on the field, he has thrived. Using his speed, Gay is quick to diagnose plays and usually finds himself in position to make tackles. That quickness is also vital in pass coverage. And since the Chiefs are tied for 23rd in the NFL in rushing defense, allowing 128.2 yards a game, more speed is never a bad thing.
Javon Kinlaw, DT, San Francisco 49ers
As the 49ers (5-6) find themselves in an uphill climb to make the playoffs, they need Kinlaw to play like he has the last two weeks.
One game after generating his first career sack (he actually ended up with 1.5), Kinlaw showed his versatility and ability to read a quarterback when he deftly dropped into coverage and picked off Rams quarterback Jared Goff before he returned it for a touchdown in a crucial victory against a division rival.
BIG MAN TD!! @JavonKinlaw with the Pick 6 and dive 😂#SFvsLAR on FOX/49ers app pic.twitter.com/6UwAiGX5aA — San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) November 29, 2020
"I was really supposed to be rushing, but something told me to drop and step back," Kinlaw said after the game. "I saw the ball come out so I was like: 'Yeah, we're going to the crib.' "
After veteran defensive tackle Solomon Thomas tore his anterior cruciate ligament in Week 2, the team suddenly needed Kinlaw to step up. And though he has performed well in clogging rushing lanes and stopping the run, Kinlaw has struggled when facing double teams. But the anticipation that led to the pick-six, if it develops further, could be instrumental in keeping the San Francisco defense as dangerous as it has been.
Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Dolphins
This one might seem obvious, but Tagovailoa's short stint as the starter has been mixed. But for the Dolphins (7-4) – who are the current No. 6 seed in the AFC – to clinch their first playoff spot since the 2016 season, Miami needs Tagovailoa to be, at best, good, but more likely, great.
The Dolphins' schedule isn't favorable, with matchups against the Chiefs (10-1), Patriots (5-6), Raiders (6-5) and Bills (8-3) following this weekend's game against the Bengals.
Tagovailoa has had success when he can mix standing in the pocket to deliver throws, while also using his mobility on plays like play-action rollouts and extending plays to find open targets down the field. Look at the 34-31 victory against the Cardinals in Week 9 as an example. But Week 11's 20-13 loss against the Broncos was the opposite; Tagovailoa was flustered by a constant pass rush and was benched. Miami cannot afford for him to have many more games like that.


usatoday--2020-12-05--Canucks parting ways with anthem singer planning to sing at Vancouver rally protesting COVID-19 rest

The Vancouver Canucks and anthem singer Mark Donnelly will be parting ways over the singer 's involvement in a rally protesting COVID-19 restrictions in the Canadian province of British Columbia .
Donnelly was set to sing twice , including a rendition of the Canadian national anthem `` O Canada , '' at the downtown Vancouver `` B.C .
Christmas Freedom Rally . ''
The Vancouver Sun confirmed Donnelly 's involvement in the rally , and the outlet 's story on the matter drew a response from Canucks owner Francesco Aquilini .
Aquilini said that Donnelly should be referred to from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anthem singer '' in a post that was accompanied with the hashtag `` Wear A Mask . ''
Canucks officials reaffirmed Aquilini 's words that Donnelly was done in his anthem-singing role to both the Sun and the CBC , with a spokesperson telling the latter outlet , `` You are safe to say his days are over . ''
A stay-at-home order and a mask mandate has been put in place in British Columbia , the Sun says .
The Sun also says that B.C .
residents `` have been instructed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sizes . ''
The rally planned for Saturday seemingly is set to challenge such orders entering the Christmas holidays .
“ We encourage everyone to wear a mask and to follow the provincial health orders , ” Canucks COO Trent Carroll said in a statement to the Sun earlier Friday .

Canucks parting ways with anthem singer planning to sing at Vancouver rally protesting COVID-19 restrictions
The Vancouver Canucks and anthem singer Mark Donnelly will be parting ways over the singer's involvement in a rally protesting COVID-19 restrictions in the Canadian province of British Columbia.
Donnelly was set to sing twice, including a rendition of the Canadian national anthem "O Canada," at the downtown Vancouver "B.C. Christmas Freedom Rally."
The Vancouver Sun confirmed Donnelly's involvement in the rally, and the outlet's story on the matter drew a response from Canucks owner Francesco Aquilini.
Aquilini said that Donnelly should be referred to from now on as the "former Canucks anthem singer" in a post that was accompanied with the hashtag "Wear A Mask."
SEASON PLANS: NHL now focusing on mid-January start
Canucks officials reaffirmed Aquilini's words that Donnelly was done in his anthem-singing role to both the Sun and the CBC, with a spokesperson telling the latter outlet, "You are safe to say his days are over."
A stay-at-home order and a mask mandate has been put in place in British Columbia, the Sun says. The Sun also says that B.C. residents "have been instructed to avoid social gatherings of all kinds and sizes."
The rally planned for Saturday seemingly is set to challenge such orders entering the Christmas holidays.
“We encourage everyone to wear a mask and to follow the provincial health orders,” Canucks COO Trent Carroll said in a statement to the Sun earlier Friday.


usatoday--2020-12-06--Coronavirus updates: Southern California to enter lockdown; daily cases reach another record

Some areas of the country will likely again need temporary “ drastic ” and “ draconian ” measures — such as shutdowns or the suspension of elective procedures — to protect the nation 's health care system as COVID-19 continues to spread , Dr. Anthony Fauci , director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases , said Friday .
That 's because the nation is facing a “ surge upon a surge ” of cases that will likely continue to mount , Fauci said in interview with CNN .
The number of coronavirus cases was already growing rapidly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Americans traveled and gathered , likely further escalating the virus ' reach .
The extent of the Thanksgiving-related surge wo n't fully be known until almost Christmas — when yet another surge of cases may again start , the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director Fauci said .
Infections and deaths continued climbing in recent weeks , leading the influential Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation model to project on Friday that the U.S. will surpass half-a-million COVID-19 deaths by April .
Fauci did n't disagree , given the uncertainty of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continues on the vaccine front , he said .
Some hospitals already have candidate vaccines in hand and are ready to start administering doses as soon as they receive the official emergency use authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration .
Here 's what to know : • Coronavirus infections reached a new daily high of nearly 228,000 cases on Friday .
The 227,885 cases eclipses the previous high of more than 217,000 on Thursday , according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University .
• Health officers in six San Francisco @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay-at-home order ahead of a state plan .
• Student loan borrowers wo n't have to make payments on federal student loans until the end of January , the U.S. Education Department said Friday , extending a pandemic-era reprieve through the first days of the Joe Biden presidency .
• U.S. employers added a disappointing 245,000 jobs in November despite the looming halt of extended jobless benefits and other federal lifelines for millions of Americans .
📈 Today 's numbers : The U.S. has reported more than 14.5 million cases and over 281,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ data .
The global totals : 66 million cases and 1.5 million deaths .
📰 What we 're reading : Will you be required to get vaccinated ?
The short answer is yes , for some Americans .
But not anytime soon , and not by the federal government .
Read why .
This file will be updated throughout the day .
For updates in your inbox , subscribe to The Daily Briefing newsletter .
The vast region of Southern California was placed under new lockdown orders as the state scrambles to slow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ threatens to overwhelm hospitals .
The California Department of Public Health announced Saturday that a shortage of intensive care beds in the 11-county Southern California region had triggered the new measures , which take effect Sunday evening .
The region includes the cities of Los Angeles and San Diego and is home to about 24 million people , almost half of the state ’ s population .
Earlier Saturday , the order was also put in effect for the San Joaquin Valley in central California .
The new state stay-at-home order bans all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nail salons , movie theaters and many other businesses , as well as museums and playgrounds .
It stays in effect for at least three weeks .
It also means people may not congregate with anyone outside their household and must always wear masks when they go outside .
Some Southern California law enforcement officials have said they will not enforce stay-at-home orders , with Orange County and Riverside County sheriffs publicly criticizing Gov .
Gavin Newsom in confrontational statements that stressed individual responsibility .
Five San Francisco Bay Area counties have also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ residents that will take effect Sunday , although the region is not yet been required to do so by the state .
Separately , Los Angeles County announced a stay-home order last week .
Dr. Marvin James Farr was born into an America where neighbors were willing to die for their fellow citizens .
But he died Tuesday in a very different country – one where `` many of his fellow Americans refuse to wear a piece of cloth on their face to protect one another . ''
That 's according to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Farr 's five surviving children , Courtney Farr , that criticizes Americans who have `` disparaged and abandoned '' science amid the coronavirus pandemic .
`` He died with covid-19 , and his final days were harder , scarier and lonelier than necessary .
He was not surrounded by friends and family , '' his son wrote in the obituary posted on the website of Price & Sons Funeral Home .
Oregon doctor 's license suspended after saying he does not wear masks A family physician has been suspended by the Oregon Medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff are not wearing masks in his clinic during the COVID-19 pandemic .
Dr. Steven LaTulippe , owner of South View Medical Arts , also compared the SARS-CoV-2 virus to a `` common cold virus , '' and challenged Gov .
Kate Brown 's authority in her efforts to slow the spread of the disease .
The Oregon Medical Board suspended his license Thursday `` due to the Board 's concern for the safety and welfare '' of LaTulippe 's patients .
Nashville ICU nurse shot and killed in her car on her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was fatally shot Thursday night , Metro Nashville police said .
Police on Friday identified the woman as Caitlyn Kaufman , who worked at St. Thomas West Hospital in Nashville .
Detectives believe the shooting happened while Kaufman was on her way to work .
Kaufman died quickly at the scene after being shot at least once , police said .
As of Friday night the woman 's killer remained at large , police said , and a motive in the killing was n't clear .
`` It 's just incredibly heartbreaking and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Metro Nashville Police Department spokesman Don Aaron .
US reaches daily high of nearly 228,000 cases Coronavirus infections continue to spread at record levels in the United States , reaching a new daily high of nearly 228,000 cases on Friday .
The 227,885 cases eclipses the previous high of more than 217,000 on Thursday , according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University .
The seven-day rolling average of COVID-19 attributable deaths in the U.S. has passed 2,000 for the first time at 2,011 .
Two weeks ago , the seven-day average was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the U.S. on Friday .
Globally , Johns Hopkins reports more than 1.5 million people have died from the coronavirus pandemic , including more than 279,000 in the United States .
Hospitals brace for crisis-care mode : Too many patients , not enough staff COVID-19 deaths and hospitalizations are at record levels and the rising case toll from Americans ' holiday travel has created an unprecedented surge with no relief in sight .
The problem is especially ominous in the nation ’ s intensive care units – specialized units crowded with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the nation struggles through the most dangerous phase of the pandemic .
On Thursday , California announced stay-at-home orders for regions where intensive care units are nearly full .
A growing chorus of medical experts say hospitals and states must prepare to shift to crisis-care mode , a designation with standards for hospitals to navigate life-and-death decisions when they become overwhelmed .
Crisis standards mean hospitals with too many patients and not enough staff likely will need to triage patients , prioritizing care to those mostly likely to benefit when demand outstrips resources @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just the beginning of the post-Thanksgiving peak , ” said Eric Toner , senior scholar with the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security .
“ It ’ s going to be huge and it ’ s going to be awful.
” Read more .
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell , U.S. Sen. Rand Paul and 36 other senators publicly showed their support Friday for Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron 's federal lawsuit challenging Gov .
Andy Beshear 's order prohibiting public and private K-12 schools from holding in-person classes until January .
McConnell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cameron , submitted an amicus brief Friday to the U.S. Supreme Court along with Paul and many of their Republican Senate colleagues backing the case the state attorney general and Danville Christian Academy recently brought against Beshear .
The lawsuit challenges the Democrat 's decision to force religious private schools to switch to virtual classes because of spiking COVID-19 cases in the state .
Thousands of doctors , teachers and others in high-risk groups have signed up Saturday for a coronavirus vaccination in Moscow .
The vaccination effort comes three days after President @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ large-scale ” immunization campaign even though a Russian-designed vaccine has yet to complete the advanced studies needed to ensure its effectiveness and safety in line with established scientific protocols .
The Russian leader said Wednesday that more than 2 million doses of the Sputnik V shot will be available in the next few days , allowing authorities to offer shots to medical workers and teachers across the country starting late next week .
On Saturday , Russia reported a record 28,782 daily cases , including 7,993 in Moscow .
Russia ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ caseload in the world behind the United States , India and Brazil .
There ’ s been 42,684 total confirmed deaths in Russia .
‘ A lot more ’ must be done to distribute vaccine , Biden says President-elect Joe Biden said more must be done to plan the distribution of vaccines for COVID-19 after they are approved , but that his health advisers are developing plans .
“ There ’ s a lot more that has to be done , ” Biden told reporters .
“ There is no detailed plan that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you get the vaccine out of a container into an injection syringe and into an arm.
” He called the anticipated distribution “ difficult and expensive.
” He also said it must be equitable , to ensure that communities of color receive vaccinations beyond those distributed through major drugstore chains that might not have offices in all neighborhoods .
“ We ’ ve got a lot of work to do , ” Biden said .
COVID-19 side effects mean your body is reacting properly , experts say Americans will likely experience at least @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but doctors say that ’ s normal and you should still get vaccinated .
In Moderna ’ s trials , where more than half of Phase 1 study participants experienced some side effect , the company said the most common side effects in Phase 3 were fatigue , muscle soreness and aches , joint pain , headache , and pain , redness or swelling at the injection site .
In Pfizer/BioNTech Phase 3 trials , the probability of getting fatigued or a headache was 3.8 % and 2 % , respectively .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ physician helping lead the COVID-19 vaccination plan at the Mayo Clinic , said it ’ s important to educate Americans about the vaccines ’ side effects or it may deter people from getting the second dose .
“ Just because you ’ re sore doesn ’ t mean that ( the vaccine ) didn ’ t work or wasn ’ t effective .
It just means that your body responded the way it ’ s supposed to , ” she said .
“ It ’ s important to take both doses or that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Read more here .
In your inbox : Stay up to date with the latest news on the coronavirus pandemic from the USA TODAY Network .
Sign up for the daily Coronavirus Watch newsletter .
Tips for coping : Every Saturday and Tuesday we 'll be in your inbox , offering you a virtual hug and a little bit of solace in these difficult times .
Sign up for Staying Apart , Together .
On Facebook : A lot is still unknown about the coronavirus .
But what we do know , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Facebook group , Coronavirus Watch , to receive daily updates in your feed and chat with others in the community about COVID-19 .


usatoday--2020-12-06--Failing to convince Gov. Kemp to flip election, Trump vows to 'win back the White House' at Georgia

WASHINGTON – Faced with possible Republican loss of the Senate , President Donald Trump spent more time at a campaign rally Saturday ranting about his election loss and ripping Georgia Republican leaders who refused his demands to subvert the results in the Peach State .
Trump did promote incumbent Georgia Sens .
David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler – whose Jan. 5 re-election bids will decide control of the Senate – but framed most of the rally around his own legacy and false allegations about the election .
The 100-minute rally came just hours after he re-inserted himself into Georgia politics @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – to reverse his loss in the state by pressuring the Republican Gov .
Brian Kemp and the state legislature .
Kemp rejected Trump 's request to call a special legislative session to approve the appointment of a pro-Trump slate to the Electoral College , earning repeated rebukes from Trump during an airport rally in Valdosta , Ga. , that lasted 100 minutes .
`` We just need somebody with courage to do what they have to do , '' said Trump , who has pressured legislators in several Biden states to push @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that state officials lack the legal authority to do that in defiance of their states ' voters .
While Trump falsely claimed he really `` won '' the presidential election , he tacitly admitted at times that Biden will become president and Kamala Harris will become vice president on Jan. 20 .
At one point , he described Perdue and Loeffler as the `` last line of defense '' for the Republican Senate , but Democrats can only take control when Biden and Harris take office .
Trump , who has discussed another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , joked in Valdosta that does n't want to run in four years because `` we 're gon na win back the White House '' in the next several weeks .
Throughout his speech , Trump lodged fact-free protests about balloting procedures in swing states like Georgia , Pennsylvania , Michigan , Arizona , Nevada , and Wisconsin .
He repeated allegations of fraud that have been rejected and debunked by judges and election officials from both political parties .
Planners scheduled the rally ostensibly on behalf of Perdue and Loeffler , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re-election battles to determine control of the U.S. Senate .
Both candidates have been burdened by Trump 's unprecedented attempts to flip the results of the presidential election in Georgia and elsewhere .
Trump 's complaints about his loss to Biden in Georgia – and his attacks on the state 's Republican leaders like Kemp – threaten to reduce turnout for Perdue and Loeffler , making them vulnerable to Democratic opponents Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock .
If the Democrats win both Jan. 5 run-offs in Georgia , the Senate will be tied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Democrats will have control because Harris will be the tie-breaker in the vice president 's role as president of the Senate .
`` Donald Trump is the major driving force of voter turn out in Georgia , '' said pollster Frank Luntz .
`` If Republicans win , they should thank him .
If Republicans lose , they can blame him . ''
None of the Georgia Senate candidates received more than 50 % of the vote in last month 's election , requiring state-mandated run-offs .
Trump acknowledged concern about turnout , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to get out and you have to vote . ''
Trump praised Perdue and Loeffler , and described their runoffs as perhaps the most important Senate races in history .
The two senators spoke briefly at the Valdosta rally , returning Trump 's praise .
Political scientist Susan A. MacManus , professor emerita at the University of South Florida , said Trump 's `` message of having to vote has managed to get through much louder than some had expected , even as he continued to attack the fairness of the vote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feared it would all be about his plight . ''
Kemp did not attend the rally , which took place hours after Trump phoned the Georgia governor to pressure him into calling the legislature into session .
In a tweet , Kemp did say he agreed with Trump 's call for a `` signature audit '' of Biden 's win , but he does not have the power to order one in a race that he and other state officials have already certified .
Replying by tweet , Trump told the governor : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what you ask .
What are they hiding ? ''
Trump also confirmed his request for electoral vote legislation by tweeting at Kemp : `` At least immediately ask for a Special Session of the Legislature .
That you can easily , and immediately , do . ''
The governor did not comment on Trump 's request to have the GOP legislature approve Trump electors , as reported by The Washington Post and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution .
The Georgia legislature lacks the constitutional authority to submit its own slate of electors in any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state 's 16 electoral votes because of his popular vote victory .
Those votes also would not change the election overall , as Biden won 306 electoral voters nationwide .
More : As he looks to 2024 , Trump ’ s deep pockets mean barbs for Biden and GOP competitors More : Live politics updates : Biden plans to campaign in Georgia for Senate candidates Aboard Air Force One en route to Georgia , Trump issued a pair of tweets attacking Kemp and another Republican governor , Doug Ducey of Arizona .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would have already won both Arizona and Georgia , '' Trump claimed , although a variety of officials said Biden carried both states in free and fair elections .
Trump added : `` Republicans will NEVER forget this . ''
The Valdosta trip also presented a rhetorical challenge for Trump : Arguing that the two Senate races are essential to control of the Senate , without admitting , publicly , that Biden and Harris will take office on Jan. 20 , something he has refused to concede since Election Day last month .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ will leave office next month .
At one point , he talked about `` what we would have done in the next four years '' with respect to China and Iran .
For weeks , Trump has attacked Kemp and Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger , both of whom signed off on certification on voting results that showed a Biden victory .
Raffensperger and other Republicans said they have received death threats in the wake of Trump 's attacks , and urged the president to stop them before someone gets hurt .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the governor 's standing .
According to the Morning Consult Political Intelligence ’ s daily tracking poll , the governor 's approval rating among Georgia Republicans has dropped from 86 % to 77 % since Election Day on Nov. 3 .
Morning Consult also said `` perceptions of Sens .
Loeffler and Perdue have been largely immune from the disarray '' over Trump 's criticism of the Georgia electoral process .
Meanwhile , some allies of Trump , including attorneys Sidney Powell and Lin Wood , urged Republicans not to vote in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ balloting .
More : 'They have not earned your vote ' : Trump allies urge Georgia Republicans to sit out Senate runoffs More : Georgia secretary of state : My family voted for Trump .
He threw us under the bus anyway .
Democrats in Georgia said their turnout machine produced Biden 's victory by some 12,000 votes , and will deliver Ossoff and Warnock to the U.S. Senate .
`` We make history one month from today , '' the Georgia Democratic Party tweeted in the hours before Trump 's visit .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ has created other problems for Perdue and Loeffler as they seek reelection .
They have backed Trump 's protests and , like most Republican lawmakers , refused to recognize Biden as president-elect – and are therefore unable to argue that their elections are essential to Republican control of the Senate .
`` President Trump wo n't let them make their best argument , '' GOP pollster Whit Ayres said .
`` He puts them in a bind . ''

Failing to convince Gov. Kemp to flip election, Trump vows to 'win back the White House' at Georgia rally
Show Caption Hide Caption Trump voter fraud claims impact Georgia run-offs President Donald Trump's baseless claims of voter fraud will either help or hurt Republicans effort to retain the U.S. Senate, as the president visits Georgia to drum up support for two GOP re-election campaigns. (Dec. 4) AP
WASHINGTON – Faced with possible Republican loss of the Senate, President Donald Trump spent more time at a campaign rally Saturday ranting about his election loss and ripping Georgia Republican leaders who refused his demands to subvert the results in the Peach State.
Trump did promote incumbent Georgia Sens. David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler – whose Jan. 5 re-election bids will decide control of the Senate – but framed most of the rally around his own legacy and false allegations about the election.
The 100-minute rally came just hours after he re-inserted himself into Georgia politics by again trying – and again failing – to reverse his loss in the state by pressuring the Republican Gov. Brian Kemp and the state legislature.
Kemp rejected Trump's request to call a special legislative session to approve the appointment of a pro-Trump slate to the Electoral College, earning repeated rebukes from Trump during an airport rally in Valdosta, Ga., that lasted 100 minutes.
"We just need somebody with courage to do what they have to do," said Trump, who has pressured legislators in several Biden states to push for pro-Trump electors, despite the fact that state officials lack the legal authority to do that in defiance of their states' voters.
While Trump falsely claimed he really "won" the presidential election, he tacitly admitted at times that Biden will become president and Kamala Harris will become vice president on Jan. 20.
At one point, he described Perdue and Loeffler as the "last line of defense" for the Republican Senate, but Democrats can only take control when Biden and Harris take office.
Trump, who has discussed another presidential campaign in 2024 with his aides, joked in Valdosta that doesn't want to run in four years because "we're gonna win back the White House" in the next several weeks.
Throughout his speech, Trump lodged fact-free protests about balloting procedures in swing states like Georgia, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Arizona, Nevada, and Wisconsin. He repeated allegations of fraud that have been rejected and debunked by judges and election officials from both political parties.
Planners scheduled the rally ostensibly on behalf of Perdue and Loeffler, the two Georgia Republican senators who face tough re-election battles to determine control of the U.S. Senate. Both candidates have been burdened by Trump's unprecedented attempts to flip the results of the presidential election in Georgia and elsewhere.
Trump's complaints about his loss to Biden in Georgia – and his attacks on the state's Republican leaders like Kemp – threaten to reduce turnout for Perdue and Loeffler, making them vulnerable to Democratic opponents Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock.
If the Democrats win both Jan. 5 run-offs in Georgia, the Senate will be tied 50-50 between the parties. But the Democrats will have control because Harris will be the tie-breaker in the vice president's role as president of the Senate.
"Donald Trump is the major driving force of voter turn out in Georgia," said pollster Frank Luntz. "If Republicans win, they should thank him. If Republicans lose, they can blame him."
None of the Georgia Senate candidates received more than 50% of the vote in last month's election, requiring state-mandated run-offs.
Trump acknowledged concern about turnout, telling supporters in Valdosta that "you have to get out and you have to vote." Trump praised Perdue and Loeffler, and described their runoffs as perhaps the most important Senate races in history.
The two senators spoke briefly at the Valdosta rally, returning Trump's praise.
Political scientist Susan A. MacManus, professor emerita at the University of South Florida, said Trump's "message of having to vote has managed to get through much louder than some had expected, even as he continued to attack the fairness of the vote in Georgia and elsewhere. Some had feared it would all be about his plight."
Kemp did not attend the rally, which took place hours after Trump phoned the Georgia governor to pressure him into calling the legislature into session.
In a tweet, Kemp did say he agreed with Trump's call for a "signature audit" of Biden's win, but he does not have the power to order one in a race that he and other state officials have already certified.
Replying by tweet, Trump told the governor: "Your people are refusing to do what you ask. What are they hiding?"
Trump also confirmed his request for electoral vote legislation by tweeting at Kemp: "At least immediately ask for a Special Session of the Legislature. That you can easily, and immediately, do."
The governor did not comment on Trump's request to have the GOP legislature approve Trump electors, as reported by The Washington Post and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
The Georgia legislature lacks the constitutional authority to submit its own slate of electors in any case; Biden is entitled to the state's 16 electoral votes because of his popular vote victory. Those votes also would not change the election overall, as Biden won 306 electoral voters nationwide.
More: As he looks to 2024, Trump’s deep pockets mean barbs for Biden and GOP competitors
More: Live politics updates: Biden plans to campaign in Georgia for Senate candidates
Aboard Air Force One en route to Georgia, Trump issued a pair of tweets attacking Kemp and another Republican governor, Doug Ducey of Arizona.
"If they were with us, we would have already won both Arizona and Georgia," Trump claimed, although a variety of officials said Biden carried both states in free and fair elections.
Trump added: "Republicans will NEVER forget this."
The Valdosta trip also presented a rhetorical challenge for Trump: Arguing that the two Senate races are essential to control of the Senate, without admitting, publicly, that Biden and Harris will take office on Jan. 20, something he has refused to concede since Election Day last month.
Trump periodically came close to admitting he will leave office next month. At one point, he talked about "what we would have done in the next four years" with respect to China and Iran.
For weeks, Trump has attacked Kemp and Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, both of whom signed off on certification on voting results that showed a Biden victory. Raffensperger and other Republicans said they have received death threats in the wake of Trump's attacks, and urged the president to stop them before someone gets hurt.
Trump's criticisms appear to be hurting the governor's standing. According to the Morning Consult Political Intelligence’s daily tracking poll, the governor's approval rating among Georgia Republicans has dropped from 86% to 77% since Election Day on Nov. 3.
Morning Consult also said "perceptions of Sens. Loeffler and Perdue have been largely immune from the disarray" over Trump's criticism of the Georgia electoral process.
Meanwhile, some allies of Trump, including attorneys Sidney Powell and Lin Wood, urged Republicans not to vote in the runoffs as a protest against the presidential balloting.
More: 'They have not earned your vote': Trump allies urge Georgia Republicans to sit out Senate runoffs
More: Georgia secretary of state: My family voted for Trump. He threw us under the bus anyway.
Democrats in Georgia said their turnout machine produced Biden's victory by some 12,000 votes, and will deliver Ossoff and Warnock to the U.S. Senate. "We make history one month from today," the Georgia Democratic Party tweeted in the hours before Trump's visit.
Trump's refusal to concede to Biden has created other problems for Perdue and Loeffler as they seek reelection. They have backed Trump's protests and, like most Republican lawmakers, refused to recognize Biden as president-elect – and are therefore unable to argue that their elections are essential to Republican control of the Senate.
"President Trump won't let them make their best argument," GOP pollster Whit Ayres said. "He puts them in a bind."


usatoday--2020-12-05--As he looks to 2024, Trump's deep pockets mean barbs for Biden and GOP competitors

WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump has n't conceded the election but is already discussing a rematch in 2024 , a prospect that could entangle President-elect Joe Biden and stymie other Republicans laying the groundwork for their own campaign .
From an aggressive post-election fundraising effort that came into sharper focus this week to remarks he delivered at a recent White House holiday party , Trump is signaling at increasing volume his desire to remain in control of GOP politics after Jan. 20 .
Just how much of the spotlight Trump can continue to hold after he leaves office next month @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Party will remain under his influence – could have enormous implications for Biden 's ability to push an agenda through Congress and bring together a nation divided by the pandemic and recent election .
`` I think most Republican elected officials are ready to move on , '' said GOP pollster Whit Ayres .
`` This prevents that from happening . ''
As he continues to fight the outcome of the Nov. 3 election , Trump is already looking ahead .
Aides speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss plans not yet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about 2024 before Biden 's inauguration .
BIDEN : Meet incoming chief of staff Ron Klain , who will join Fauci in COVID fight Meanwhile , campaign finance reports made public Thursday show Trump raised more than $ 200 million since the election and has more than $ 100 million on hand – including in a new super PAC that will let him spend in the 2022 midterm election .
That money , Republicans said , will allow him to amplify his message from outside the White House .
In other words , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him throw barbs from the sidelines at Biden and any congressional Republican who considers working with him .
`` Having just raised over $ 200 million without announcing , my guess is Trump would again dominate the Republican field if he decides to run in 2024 , '' said Rick Tyler , a conservative political strategist who has been critical of Trump .
`` In the mean time , until Trump decides on a second run , the other GOP hopefuls will remain as frozen as a COVID vaccine . ''
'See you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2024 ambitions at a White House holiday party this week posted to social media , telling the audience that he would `` see you in four years . ''
He raised his recent campaign cash with a blitz of evidence-free allegations of voter fraud in 2020 , but nothing would prevent him from using that money in four years .
Many Republicans , including aides who spoke on condition of anonymity because Trump 's plans are not firm , assume he will at least tease another campaign – but they also note that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on any journey back to the White House .
While Trump would likely retain a huge base of supporters and deep pockets , he may also face potential legal problems and Republican opponents eager to turn the page on the volatile businessman-turned-politician .
TRUMP What 's Trump 's next act ?
Would he run in 2024 ?
Trump would be 78 if he won election in 2024 , the same as Biden 's current age .
Pollster Frank Luntz predicted Trump will strongly hint at running again in four years , but leave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and bow out down the line – a move Trump made for decades before finally pulling the trigger in 2015 .
Still , Luntz said , any kind of early announcement would likely freeze the Republican race for at least a year as other potential candidates assess whether they want to challenge the well-funded ex-president for the GOP nomination .
`` He will start out with more voters – more support – than any Republican candidate since 1984 , '' Luntz said , referring to the year Ronald Reagan sought re-election .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he will also start out with more opposition . ''
A new generation of Republicans are also eyeing presidential runs , such as former U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley and Arkansas Sen. Tom Cotton .
Trump 's vice president , Mike Pence , could be in the mix as well as Secretary of State Mike Pompeo .
Whether any could take down Trump – or would even try – remains an open question .
`` President Trump would be the overwhelming favorite for the nomination if he ran again , but that 's a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mackowiak , a Texas-based Republican strategist .
`` Republicans need to study what worked from the 2020 election and replicate it . ''
Liz Mair , a GOP strategist who has been critical of Trump , said people tend to seek change and Republican voters since Reagan have picked a variety of standard bearers : George H.W .
Bush , Bob Dole , George W. Bush , John McCain , and Mitt Romney .
`` There 's relatively little issues-wise that binds GOP voters and they move all over the map every few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There 's little reason to think the party will look like it does right now in even two years – though it also could . ''
Mair said Trump '24 would have `` a high floor and a low ceiling , '' and `` I think a ton of GOP voters will be shopping for a new candidate . ''
Trump could also face legal obstacles if he runs again .
Prosecutors in New York are investigating him over various financial dealings from when lived and worked there .
An early test of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will begin this weekend when he travels to Georgia on Saturday for his first post-election rally .
Trump will campaign for Republican Sens .
Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue , both of whom are facing runoffs Jan. 5 that will together decide control of the Senate .
Biden narrowly won Georgia , marking the first time a Democratic presidential candidate carried the state since 1992 .
Trump 's Georgia rally could offer clues about what message he 'll take supporters over the next four years , Republicans said .
Even if Trump keeps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2024 , he would face another huge obstacle in reclaiming the White House : Biden .
Trump would have to improve his general election performance considerably before he or any other Republican could win .
Biden won by more than 7 million votes , and captured 306 electoral votes .
While predicting Trump could win the Republican nomination again in 2024 , Tyler added : `` I don ’ t think , however , he will ever be president again . ''
As an incumbent first-term president , Cleveland lost his re-election bid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ came back in 1892 to defeat Harrison and reclaim the White House .
Cleveland was an exception , however .
Other ex-presidents who sought the office , such as Martin Van Buren and Millard Fillmore , floundered when they ran again .
Even Ulysses S. Grant , a two-term president who served 1869-77 , could not win the Republican nomination when backers made him available at the party convention in 1880 .
Luntz predicted that Trump 's perpetual campaign will hurt Republicans in some areas .
In others , he said , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ race , the GOP gained 15 seats in the House and the party stands a strong chance to keep control of the Senate .
They ’ ve proven , Luntz said , they can win with or without him .
`` He is the most polarizing political figure I ’ ve ever seen , '' Luntz added .
`` You love him or you hate him .
There is no middle ground . ''

David Jackson and John Fritze, USA TODAY

As he looks to 2024, Trump’s deep pockets mean barbs for Biden and GOP competitors
Show Caption Hide Caption Trump says finally he will take part in peaceful transfer of power President Trump acknowledged for the first time that he would leave the White House when the Electoral College casts its formal vote for Joe Biden. USA TODAY, Associated Press
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump hasn't conceded the election but is already discussing a rematch in 2024, a prospect that could entangle President-elect Joe Biden and stymie other Republicans laying the groundwork for their own campaign.
From an aggressive post-election fundraising effort that came into sharper focus this week to remarks he delivered at a recent White House holiday party, Trump is signaling at increasing volume his desire to remain in control of GOP politics after Jan. 20.
Just how much of the spotlight Trump can continue to hold after he leaves office next month – and how much of the Republican Party will remain under his influence – could have enormous implications for Biden's ability to push an agenda through Congress and bring together a nation divided by the pandemic and recent election.
"I think most Republican elected officials are ready to move on," said GOP pollster Whit Ayres. "This prevents that from happening."
As he continues to fight the outcome of the Nov. 3 election, Trump is already looking ahead. Aides speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss plans not yet finalized said Trump could make an announcement about 2024 before Biden's inauguration.
BIDEN: Meet incoming chief of staff Ron Klain, who will join Fauci in COVID fight
Meanwhile, campaign finance reports made public Thursday show Trump raised more than $200 million since the election and has more than $100 million on hand – including in a new super PAC that will let him spend in the 2022 midterm election. That money, Republicans said, will allow him to amplify his message from outside the White House.
In other words, Trump's deep campaign pockets will allow him throw barbs from the sidelines at Biden and any congressional Republican who considers working with him.
"Having just raised over $200 million without announcing, my guess is Trump would again dominate the Republican field if he decides to run in 2024," said Rick Tyler, a conservative political strategist who has been critical of Trump. "In the mean time, until Trump decides on a second run, the other GOP hopefuls will remain as frozen as a COVID vaccine."
'See you in four years'
Trump nodded to his 2024 ambitions at a White House holiday party this week posted to social media, telling the audience that he would "see you in four years." He raised his recent campaign cash with a blitz of evidence-free allegations of voter fraud in 2020, but nothing would prevent him from using that money in four years.
Many Republicans, including aides who spoke on condition of anonymity because Trump's plans are not firm, assume he will at least tease another campaign – but they also note that the soon-to-be-former president would face high hurdles on any journey back to the White House. While Trump would likely retain a huge base of supporters and deep pockets, he may also face potential legal problems and Republican opponents eager to turn the page on the volatile businessman-turned-politician.
TRUMP What's Trump's next act? Would he run in 2024?
Trump would be 78 if he won election in 2024, the same as Biden's current age.
Pollster Frank Luntz predicted Trump will strongly hint at running again in four years, but leave the door open to change his mind and bow out down the line – a move Trump made for decades before finally pulling the trigger in 2015.
Still, Luntz said, any kind of early announcement would likely freeze the Republican race for at least a year as other potential candidates assess whether they want to challenge the well-funded ex-president for the GOP nomination.
"He will start out with more voters – more support – than any Republican candidate since 1984," Luntz said, referring to the year Ronald Reagan sought re-election.
"But," he added, "he will also start out with more opposition."
A new generation of Republicans are also eyeing presidential runs, such as former U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley and Arkansas Sen. Tom Cotton. Trump's vice president, Mike Pence, could be in the mix as well as Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Whether any could take down Trump – or would even try – remains an open question.
"President Trump would be the overwhelming favorite for the nomination if he ran again, but that's a long way off," said Matt Mackowiak, a Texas-based Republican strategist. "Republicans need to study what worked from the 2020 election and replicate it."
Liz Mair, a GOP strategist who has been critical of Trump, said people tend to seek change and Republican voters since Reagan have picked a variety of standard bearers: George H.W. Bush, Bob Dole, George W. Bush, John McCain, and Mitt Romney.
"There's relatively little issues-wise that binds GOP voters and they move all over the map every few years," Mair said. "There's little reason to think the party will look like it does right now in even two years – though it also could."
Mair said Trump '24 would have "a high floor and a low ceiling," and "I think a ton of GOP voters will be shopping for a new candidate."
Trump could also face legal obstacles if he runs again. Prosecutors in New York are investigating him over various financial dealings from when lived and worked there.
An early test of Trump's ability to influence the party will begin this weekend when he travels to Georgia on Saturday for his first post-election rally. Trump will campaign for Republican Sens. Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue, both of whom are facing runoffs Jan. 5 that will together decide control of the Senate. Biden narrowly won Georgia, marking the first time a Democratic presidential candidate carried the state since 1992.
Trump's Georgia rally could offer clues about what message he'll take supporters over the next four years, Republicans said.
PARDON: Could Trump pardon family members and other close associates?
Even if Trump keeps his grip on the Republican Party through 2024, he would face another huge obstacle in reclaiming the White House: Biden. Trump would have to improve his general election performance considerably before he or any other Republican could win. Biden won by more than 7 million votes, and captured 306 electoral votes.
While predicting Trump could win the Republican nomination again in 2024, Tyler added: "I don’t think, however, he will ever be president again."
Trump backers quickly point to a historical model: Grover Cleveland.
As an incumbent first-term president, Cleveland lost his re-election bid in 1888 to Benjamin Harrison – then came back in 1892 to defeat Harrison and reclaim the White House. Cleveland was an exception, however. Other ex-presidents who sought the office, such as Martin Van Buren and Millard Fillmore, floundered when they ran again.
Even Ulysses S. Grant, a two-term president who served 1869-77, could not win the Republican nomination when backers made him available at the party convention in 1880.
Luntz predicted that Trump's perpetual campaign will hurt Republicans in some areas. In others, he said, it probably helps. While Trump lost his race, the GOP gained 15 seats in the House and the party stands a strong chance to keep control of the Senate. They’ve proven, Luntz said, they can win with or without him.
"He is the most polarizing political figure I’ve ever seen," Luntz added. "You love him or you hate him. There is no middle ground."