usatoday--2020-03-19--First member of Congress tests positive for coronavirus; Senate OKs bill for sick leave, free testin

First member of Congress tests positive for coronavirus; Senate OKs bill for sick leave, free testing - updates

WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump signed a sweeping multibillion-dollar emergency aid package Wednesday night that will provide paid sick leave for Americans who are in quarantine , helping a family member who is infected with COVID-19 or have children whose schools have closed as a result of the coronavirus outbreak .
The bill also offers free testing for coronavirus and boosts unemployment insurance , food assistance and federal funding for Medicaid as part of an ongoing effort by Washington to combat the rapid spread of the pandemic .
`` Today , I have signed into law H.R .
6201 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' ( the `` Act '' ) , '' the president said in a statement .
`` The Act makes emergency supplemental appropriations and other changes to law to help the Nation respond to the coronavirus outbreak . ''
Trump noted a provision in the measure that requires the secretary of agriculture to submit a report to Congress that includes legislative recommendations .
The president said he would `` treat this provision in a manner consistent with Article II , section 3 of the Constitution , '' which provides him `` exclusive authority @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The president signed the bill hours after the Senate approved the bill , which was the result of days of negotiations between the White House and Congress .
Florida Republican is first member of Congress to test positive for COVID-19 Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart , R-Fla. , announced Wednesday that he tested positive for COVID-19 , becoming the first known member of Congress to contract the rapidly spreading virus .
Diaz-Balart , who represents parts of Miami and South Florida , said in a statement that he decided to self-quarantine in Washington on Friday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and thus is more susceptible to contracting the coronavirus .
Diaz-Balart said the following day , he started to show symptoms that included a fever and headache .
He was notified on Wednesday that he tested positive for the coronavirus .
`` I want everyone to know that I am feeling much better , '' he said in a statement .
`` However , it is important that everyone take this extremely seriously and follow CDC guidelines in order to avoid getting sick and mitigate the spread of this virus .
We must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a country during these trying times . ''
Members of Congress have been worried about the prospects of contracting the virus , with some arguing that lawmakers should be able to vote remotely to avoid traveling back and forth to Washington .
At least 15 lawmakers so far have gone into self-quarantine after coming into contact or being in the vicinity of someone who has tested positive for the virus .
Both Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi have shot down the idea .
Both chambers have instead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to limit the numbers of lawmakers on the floor of the House and Senate .
Many lawmakers have also told their staff to work remotely in hopes of limiting interaction .
The infection comes as Congress begins work on a third legislative package that will offer more help for Americans and businesses that are hurting due to the virus .
Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel has tested negative for coronavirus , a party official said Wednesday .
McDaniel , 46 , lives in Northville , Michigan , and is a former chairwoman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ went to a local hospital in Michigan on Friday after coming down with flu-like symptoms .
On Wednesday afternoon , Michael Ahrens , communications director for the RNC , posted on Twitter the results , saying , `` On the advice of her doctor , @ GOPChairwoman was administered a test for COVID-19 .
That test has fortunately come back negative . ''
Last Saturday , the RNC announced that McDaniel had been tested .
But she remained active while awaiting test results , posting on social media during last Sunday 's Democratic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sen. Elizabeth Warren , D-Mass.
, sent a letter to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Dr. Robert Redfield on Wednesday requesting clarification on whether the CDC has authority to cover the cost of COVID-19 testing and treatment .
Warren said that Redfield could `` authorize payment for the care , and treatment of individuals subject to medical examination , quarantine , ( and ) isolation , '' regarding those who have or are suspected of having coronavirus , adding that , “ This means that the CDC could pay for all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ insurance for COVID-19 testing and treatment for Americans with the virus.
” Last week , Redfield said he was willing use his existing authority to have the CDC pay for all Americans to be tested for the coronavirus , including the uninsured , after questioning from Rep. Katie Porter , D-Calif. , during a House Oversight and Reform Committee hearing .
Porter had asserted that Redfield has such authority under federal law .
After persistent questioning , Redfield agreed he would commit to using his authority to authorize payment for the tests .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ excellent questioner , so my answer is yes , ” Redfield told Porter .
Warren pointed out the exchange with Porter in her letter , but also said that in his “ closing statement , you appeared to walk back this commitment.
” His closing statement said : “ In my comments today I want to just clarify that we ’ re currently examining all avenues to try to ensure that uninsureds have access to testing and treatment .
And we ’ re encouraging the use of the Federally Qualified Health Centers that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we will continue to update both the Congress and the public on all available resources for this population.
” Warren continued , `` It is critical that you clarify your response and your plans to use this existing CDC authority in order to ensure all Americans who have or fear that they may have COVID-19 can afford testing and treatment.
” She requested answers for a clarification by no later than March 31 .
The Pentagon is preparing to deploy the Navy 's hospital ships to support the domestic response to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The U.S. Navy hospital ship Comfort will require weeks of repairs before it can sail from its port in Norfolk , Virginia , Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman said Wednesday afternoon .
President Donald Trump said earlier in the day that the Comfort and another hospital ship , the Mercy , will be “ launched over the next week or so depending on need.
” Trump also said the Comfort was in San Diego .
It is in Norfolk .
The Mercy ’ s home port is San Diego .
The Comfort will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ completed in a matter of weeks , Hoffman said .
The Mercy will be ready in days , he said .
The military has had 89 cases of the infection , including 49 troops , 19 of their dependents , 14 civilian workers and seven contractors .
Of those cases , 14 were hospitalized .
When asked about his timeline of a decision to potentially drop out of the presidential race , Sen. Bernie Sanders , I-VT. , was short-tempered in his response : “ I 'm dealing with a f***ing global crisis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with.
” When pressed again about still running for president , he responded , “ Well right now , right now I 'm trying to do my best to make sure that we do n't have an economic meltdown and that people do n't die .
Is that enough for you to keep me busy for today ? ''
Despite overwhelmingly losing all three states during Tuesday ’ s primaries , the Vermont senator is not dropping out of the race , according to his campaign .
Sanders was in DC voting on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ paid sick and family leave for many Americans .
The Senate passed the bill 90-8 and it will now be sent to the White House for President Trump ’ s signature .
Coronavirus cases in the United States passed 7,000 on Wednesday .
The Senate approved a multibillion-dollar emergency aid package Wednesday that will provide paid sick and family leave for many Americans while also offering free testing for the coronavirus and bolstering unemployment insurance .
The 90-8 vote of approval comes after days of intense negotiations and maneuvers to keep broad bipartisan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Congress has passed to combat the coronavirus .
Eight Republican senators voted against the bill , Sen. Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee , Sen. Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma , Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin , Sen. James Lankford of Oklahoma , Sen. Mike Lee of Utah , Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky , Sen. Ben Sasse of Nebraska , and Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina .
Three senators offered three amendments to the bill , all of which failed .
The three changes took on ways to offset the costs for the proposal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further and cut paid leave to instead expand unemployment for workers affected .
The bill will now be sent to the White House for President Trump ’ s signature .
The legislation marked the second phase of Congress ’ work to address the dire impacts the virus is having on American life .
Here ’ s what it will do : • Offer two weeks of paid sick and family leave to many American workers who are in quarantine , helping a family member with COVID-19 or who have children whose schools have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of their normal salary .
• A total of 12 weeks of paid leave to many of those who have children whose schools have closed .
Workers would get about 67 % of their normal salary for this period .
• Free testing for the coronavirus for those who need it Congress has already started working on a third stimulus package that is likely to address the needs of small businesses that are struggling due to the pandemic while also offering some type of cash assistance to Americans .
There are also proposals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the healthcare industry and relief for the airline and cruise industries .
Senate leaders said they would not leave Washington until this third bill passes , which many hope will happen this week or next .
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump confirmed that he plans to invoke a provision that would allow him to prohibit certain people from entering the country , including asylum seekers and those entering the country illegally at the southern border .
`` The answer 's yes , '' Trump told reporters when asked about the code , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` very soon .
Probably today . ''
The administration will invoke 42 U.S. Code 265 , a section of the federal legal code that states the U.S. surgeon general `` shall have the power to prohibit , in whole or in part , the introduction of persons and property from such countries or places as he shall designate in order to avert such danger , and for such period of time as he may deem necessary for such purpose . ''
When asked again whether he was closing the U.S.-Mexico border , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re not going to close it . ''
`` But we ’ re invoking a certain provision that will allow us great latitude , '' he added .
President Donald Trump said he has no plans to suspend tariffs on China or other nations as part of the U.S. 's effort to battle the coronavirus .
“ There is no reason to do that , ” Trump said .
“ This ( virus ) was caused by something totally unrelated to tariffs.
” No 'tipping point ' in decision to close US-Canada border @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no tipping point '' in his joint decision with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to close the border between the two countries .
Trump said he spoke to Trudeau and the pair decided they `` want to isolate '' people who may be sick from coming into contact with others .
`` That 's the way we 're going to win this war , '' he said , adding that the move wo n't affect trade between the U.S. and Canada .
Trump said restrictions on the Canadian border blocking leisure travel would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I would say 30 days , '' Trump said .
`` Hopefully at the end of 30 days we ’ ll be in great shape . ''
As it relates to the Southern Border : `` No we ’ re not going to close it , '' Trump said of the Southern border , `` but we ’ re invoking a certain provision that will allow us great latitude . ''
President Donald Trump said he is invoking the Defense Production Act , which allows the administration to expedite and expand the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say specifically what powers he would execute , but the act could allow him to step up production of respirators and other medical equipment .
Trump declined to say how , precisely , the Defense Production Act would be used and he suggested that the administration is still deciding .
He said the administration had “ targets ” for equipment it wanted but did not say what those targets were .
“ We need millions of masks , ” Trump said .
“ We need respirators.
” The announcement comes as the White @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stimulus plan to combat the impacts of the coronavirus outbreak .
Here 's what else was said at the briefing : • Trump also said health officials are working on a `` self swab '' coronavirus test that would allow front line health care workers to test themselves for the virus .
`` It would free up a lot , '' Trump said .
• Trump also announced he plans to hold an additional news conference either later Wednesday or early Thursday to discuss coronavirus progress at the Food and Drug Administration .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to cut through the red tape and reduce regulatory barriers . ''
• Vice President Mike Pence said the Canada border closing should not affect business relationships between the two countries : “ This does not include essential travel or the transfer of goods . ''
• The federal government is recommending Americans and doctors postpone elective surgeries , including dental surgery , to increase capacity at medical facilities , said Seema Verma , director of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services .
“ We fully appreciate that this is going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care system , ” Verma said .
• Asked about the size of the checks Americans may receive as part of a relief effort , Trump would not say the amount of the checks .
He said that is `` to be determined .. we 're working with the Senate now . ''
He added : `` It will shortly be determined .
• Trump was asked why he repeatedly refers to the coronavirus as the `` Chinese virus . ''
He said the term is `` not racist at all ...
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
• Trump says he is a war-time president , saying the virus is an `` enemy '' that is wrecking the economy : `` It 's a very tough situation ... but we 're doing it and we 're doing it well .
• Trump said the government is ordering “ thousands and thousands ” of ventilators in case they ’ re needed .
The government already has a stockpile of more than 10,000 ventilators , Pence said .
• Trump was asked why it seems well-connected people , such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tested : `` You 'd have to ask them that question ... ( it 's the ) story of life .. That does happen .
Veteran Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie said 44 veterans have tested positive for the coronavirus and one , in Portland , has died .
He said the agency had tested “ several hundred.
” VA Secretary Robert Wilkie said his department is cutting back on non-essential medical activity in order to help respond to the coronavirus threat .
He praised veterans for sacrificing some non-essential care to help with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't agree with Mnuchin 's 20 % unemployment scenario President Donald Trump took issue with Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin ’ s warning to lawmakers on Tuesday that unemployment could hit 20 % unless steps are taken to stimulate the economy .
“ I don ’ t agree with that , ” Trump said .
“ That is an absolute , worst-case scenario.
” Defense Secretary Mark Esper said the Pentagon would make 5 million masks available from its own reserves to the Department of Health and Human Services .
He said the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Esper also said the Defense Department would make up to 2,000 operational ventilators available to HHS as needed .
Two medical ships , Comfort and Mercy , will be deployed to assist with hospital beds .
He said the Army Corps of Engineers in New York is meeting with Gov .
Andrew Cuomo .
He said the Defense Department remains `` ready and capable '' to defend the U.S. and interests abroad .
Official : Millennials shoud take special precautions against coronavirus Dr. Deborah Birx , a member of the White House coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officials are concerned about reports coming out of France and Italy that young people are getting ill. Birx said the reports are worrisome because those who have been most at-risk have been the elderly or people with other health issues .
She urged “ the millennial generation ” to take special precautions .
“ You have the potential to spread it , ” she said .
The Pentagon has confirmed 89 COVID-19 cases among active-duty troops , their family members , civilian and contract employees , the Defense Department announced Tuesday .
Of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 14 have been hospitalized .
The virus has forced the cancellation of military exercises across the globe , prompted enhanced screening of troops in close proximity to one another , including pilots , and kept senior leaders apart for fear of contracting the disease .
Air Force Gen. David Goldfein , the Air Force chief of staff , told reporters Wednesday that he worked from home on Tuesday to mitigate the risk .
Travel has been restricted , and only personnel essential to critical missions are authorized to move , especially to or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such as Italy .
Crews traveling to the air base at Aviano , Italy , stay in their aircraft as long as possible , and are kept as isolated as possible when moving to their quarters on base , Goldfein said .
The Air Force is “ keeping them in a bubble , ” he said .
President Donald Trump said the Department of Housing the Urban Development would `` suspend foreclosures and evictions '' through the end of April .
It was not immediately clear whether that would apply to all housing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loans or subsidized with federal funding .
McConnell : 'Burden ' on small businesses must be addressed Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said the Senate will vote Wednesday on a House bill to protect workers from the coronavirus crisis but said the “ burden ” it places on small businesses will have to be addressed in the next stimulus package the Senate will take up in the coming days .
The House bill , which includes a controversial provision to guarantee paid sick leave for workers affected by the pandemic , is expected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Donald Trump for his expected signature .
Wisconsin GOP Sen. Ron Johnson is expected to propose an amendment to the House bill that changes the sick leave to unemployment insurance .
McConnell said House bill would impose “ a new untested mandate on small business without guaranteeing they will have sufficient funds in advance to finance this new employee benefit.
” “ Everyone agrees that workers need relief … but small businesses need relief as well , '' he said on the Senate floor Wednesday morning .
`` This is literally the worst @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more burdens and costs onto small business which are themselves fighting to stay alive unless we back it up with major assistance.
” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said the latest coronavirus stimulus plan , the details of which are still being negotiated , would not pass the Senate by the end of the week under the current procedure led by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell .
“ Secretary Mnuchin says he wants legislation passed by the end of the week .
The McConnell process will not get us there , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reporters he had divided Republican senators into three working groups that would work with the Trump administration to come up with a plan Republicans would support .
Schumer , instead , wanted negotiations between the House , Senate and Trump administration on a bipartisan basis .
`` That 's the way that 's worked the best , the quickest , the fairest in the past , '' he said , calling the procedure McConnell had outlined as likely to lead to `` delay and gridlock . ''
Trump : We 're going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ President Donald Trump and his aides said Wednesday the United States and Canada are working on a deal to temporarily close the border to discretionary travel in order to fight the spread of coronavirus .
Trade should not be affected , Trump said .
`` We will be , by mutual consent , temporarily closing our Northern Border with Canada to non-essential traffic , '' Trump tweeted .
`` Trade will not be affected .
Details to follow ! ''
Canada , which announced border closures this week , has been negotiating with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ essential traffic .
Trump to meet with airline execs , hold call with doctors The Coronavirus Task Force will hold a 11:30 a.m. EDT news conference Wednesday to discuss the latest developments on the pandemic .
President Donald Trump also tweeted about holding a news conference with the Food and Drug Administration to `` discuss very important news from the FDA '' about the coronavirus .
His schedule is packed with meetings to discuss responses to the coronavirus .
He has a phone call with airline executives , a business roundtable teleconference , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ listed on his public schedule .
The Senate is planning to vote Wednesday on a legislative package that will offer billions to bolster unemployment insurance , offer free coronavirus testing and paid sick and family leave for Americans following days of intense negotiations and pleas for lawmakers to quickly approve the legislation .
The bill is expected to pass the Senate and then be sent to President Donald Trump for his signature .
The vote comes after Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin briefed Senate Republicans and appeased some concerns about the ramifications sick and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that are already feeling the economic effects of the virus .
Sen. Rand Paul , R-Ky. , is planning to offer an amendment to the legislation before the Senate votes on the measure .
The amendment would offer a way to offset the costs of the bill by using funds that would “ include ending our decades-long involvement in Afghanistan , ” his office said in a statement .
Paul offered a similar proposal earlier this month to offset costs when the Senate took up a bill offering roughly $ 8 billion for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spread of the virus and help bolster efforts to create a vaccine .
The effort was shot down by his Senate colleagues .
More : Coronavirus updates : US death toll reaches 114 as Kansas cancels in-person classes for entire school year More : Biden stays in the driver 's seat , coronavirus changes our elections and other takeaways from Tuesday 's vote The director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management has resigned , leaving a key vacancy at a time when federal employees – like other work forces around the country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the coronavirus pandemic .
OPM said in a statement that the agency received the resignation of Dale Cabaniss , a longtime Republican official who President Donald Trump named to the post last year .
Cabaniss battled with John McEntee , who Trump named this year to lead the White House personnel office , according to several reports citing unnamed officials .
McEntee ’ s appointment came at a time when Trump acknowledged he was seeking to elevate White House employees who have proven their loyalty to him .
Federal offices in Washington @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ maximum telework flexibilities ” to eligible workers because of coronavirus .
Trump and public health officials have advised Americans to work from home whenever possible .
More : ' A big , bold package ' : Trump calls for pumping $ 1 trillion into economy to counter coronavirus hit

Courtney Subramanian, John Fritze, David Jackson and Christal Hayes, USA TODAY

Two members of Congress test positive for coronavirus; Trump signs emergency aid package
Show Caption Hide Caption Coronavirus: Donald Trump invokes Defense Production Act President Donald Trump announced he is invoking the Defense Production Act to address the coronavirus crisis. Associated Press, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – Rep. Ben McAdams, D-Utah, became the second U.S. lawmaker to test positive for COVID-19.
McAdams, 45, said that he started developing mild symptoms on Saturday after returning from Washington, D.C., and immediately began isolating himself after consultation with his doctor.
"On Tuesday, my doctor instructed me to get tested for COVID-19 and following his referral, I went to the local testing clinic for the test," he said in a statement "Today I learned that I tested positive.”
McAdams, the only Democratic member of Utah's congressional delegation, said he will self-quarantine until he knows it is safe: “I'm doing my part as all Americans are doing to contain the spread of the virus and mitigate the coronavirus outbreak."
"I urge Utahns to take this seriously and follow the health recommendations we're getting from the CDC and other health experts so that we can recover from this public threat," his statement concludes.
Earlier Wednesday, Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, R-Fla., announced that he had tested positive for COVID-19, becoming the first known member of Congress to contract the virus.
– Savannah Behrmann
Trump signs coronavirus emergency aid package
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump signed a sweeping multibillion-dollar emergency aid package Wednesday night that will provide paid sick leave for Americans who are in quarantine, helping a family member who is infected with COVID-19 or have children whose schools have closed as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.
The bill also offers free testing for coronavirus and boosts unemployment insurance, food assistance and federal funding for Medicaid as part of an ongoing effort by Washington to combat the rapid spread of the pandemic.
"Today, I have signed into law H.R. 6201, the "Families First Coronavirus Response Act" (the "Act")," the president said in a statement. "The Act makes emergency supplemental appropriations and other changes to law to help the Nation respond to the coronavirus outbreak."
Trump noted a provision in the measure that requires the secretary of agriculture to submit a report to Congress that includes legislative recommendations. The president said he would "treat this provision in a manner consistent with Article II, section 3 of the Constitution," which provides him "exclusive authority" to make recommendations to Congress.
The president signed the bill hours after the Senate approved the bill, which was the result of days of negotiations between the White House and Congress.
– Courtney Subramanian
Florida Republican is first member of Congress to test positive for COVID-19
Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, R-Fla., announced Wednesday that he tested positive for COVID-19, becoming the first known member of Congress to contract the rapidly spreading virus.
Diaz-Balart, who represents parts of Miami and South Florida, said in a statement that he decided to self-quarantine in Washington on Friday because his wife has pre-existing conditions, and thus is more susceptible to contracting the coronavirus. Diaz-Balart said the following day, he started to show symptoms that included a fever and headache.
He was notified on Wednesday that he tested positive for the coronavirus.
"I want everyone to know that I am feeling much better," he said in a statement. "However, it is important that everyone take this extremely seriously and follow CDC guidelines in order to avoid getting sick and mitigate the spread of this virus. We must continue to work together to emerge stronger as a country during these trying times."
I'm feeling much better. However, it's important that everyone take this seriously and follow @CDCgov guidelines in order to avoid getting sick & mitigate the spread of this virus. We must continue to work together to emerge stronger as a country during these trying times. pic.twitter.com/g5W5vSQIyH — Mario Diaz-Balart (@MarioDB) March 18, 2020
Members of Congress have been worried about the prospects of contracting the virus, with some arguing that lawmakers should be able to vote remotely to avoid traveling back and forth to Washington. At least 15 lawmakers so far have gone into self-quarantine after coming into contact or being in the vicinity of someone who has tested positive for the virus.
Both Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi have shot down the idea. Both chambers have instead moved to make voting safer by attempting to limit the numbers of lawmakers on the floor of the House and Senate. Many lawmakers have also told their staff to work remotely in hopes of limiting interaction.
The infection comes as Congress begins work on a third legislative package that will offer more help for Americans and businesses that are hurting due to the virus.
– Christal Hayes
RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel tests negative for coronavirus
Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel has tested negative for coronavirus, a party official said Wednesday.
McDaniel, 46, lives in Northville, Michigan, and is a former chairwoman of the Michigan Republican Committee. She went to a local hospital in Michigan on Friday after coming down with flu-like symptoms.
On Wednesday afternoon, Michael Ahrens, communications director for the RNC, posted on Twitter the results, saying, "On the advice of her doctor, @GOPChairwoman was administered a test for COVID-19. That test has fortunately come back negative."
On the advice of her doctor, @GOPChairwoman was administered a test for COVID-19.
That test has fortunately come back negative. — Michael Ahrens (@michaelahrens) March 18, 2020
Last Saturday, the RNC announced that McDaniel had been tested. But she remained active while awaiting test results, posting on social media during last Sunday's Democratic presidential debate and on other issues.
– Todd Spangler, Detroit Free Press
Warren asks CDC director for clarification about COVID-19 testing
Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., sent a letter to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Dr. Robert Redfield on Wednesday requesting clarification on whether the CDC has authority to cover the cost of COVID-19 testing and treatment.
Warren said that Redfield could "authorize payment for the care, and treatment of individuals subject to medical examination, quarantine, (and) isolation," regarding those who have or are suspected of having coronavirus, adding that, “This means that the CDC could pay for all costs not covered by any form of insurance for COVID-19 testing and treatment for Americans with the virus.”
Last week, Redfield said he was willing use his existing authority to have the CDC pay for all Americans to be tested for the coronavirus, including the uninsured, after questioning from Rep. Katie Porter, D-Calif., during a House Oversight and Reform Committee hearing.
Porter had asserted that Redfield has such authority under federal law. After persistent questioning, Redfield agreed he would commit to using his authority to authorize payment for the tests.
“I think you’re an excellent questioner, so my answer is yes,” Redfield told Porter.
Warren pointed out the exchange with Porter in her letter, but also said that in his “closing statement, you appeared to walk back this commitment.”
His closing statement said: “In my comments today I want to just clarify that we’re currently examining all avenues to try to ensure that uninsureds have access to testing and treatment. And we’re encouraging the use of the Federally Qualified Health Centers that can do this at reduced or free and we will continue to update both the Congress and the public on all available resources for this population.”
Warren continued, "It is critical that you clarify your response and your plans to use this existing CDC authority in order to ensure all Americans who have or fear that they may have COVID-19 can afford testing and treatment.”
She requested answers for a clarification by no later than March 31.
– Savannah Behrmann
Pentagon deploying ships to support coronavirus response
The Pentagon is preparing to deploy the Navy's hospital ships to support the domestic response to the coronavirus, the Defense Department has announced.
The U.S. Navy hospital ship Comfort will require weeks of repairs before it can sail from its port in Norfolk, Virginia, Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman said Wednesday afternoon.
President Donald Trump said earlier in the day that the Comfort and another hospital ship, the Mercy, will be “launched over the next week or so depending on need.”
Trump also said the Comfort was in San Diego. It is in Norfolk. The Mercy’s home port is San Diego.
The Comfort will sail to New York when maintenance is completed in a matter of weeks, Hoffman said. The Mercy will be ready in days, he said.
The military has had 89 cases of the infection, including 49 troops, 19 of their dependents, 14 civilian workers and seven contractors. Of those cases, 14 were hospitalized.
– Tom Vanden Brook
Bernie Sanders says coronavirus is a 'global crisis'
When asked about his timeline of a decision to potentially drop out of the presidential race, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-VT., was short-tempered in his response: “I'm dealing with a f***ing global crisis. You know, we're dealing with.”
When pressed again about still running for president, he responded, “Well right now, right now I'm trying to do my best to make sure that we don't have an economic meltdown and that people don't die. Is that enough for you to keep me busy for today?"
Despite overwhelmingly losing all three states during Tuesday’s primaries, the Vermont senator is not dropping out of the race, according to his campaign.
Sanders was in DC voting on a emergency aid package Wednesday that provides paid sick and family leave for many Americans. The Senate passed the bill 90-8 and it will now be sent to the White House for President Trump’s signature.
Coronavirus cases in the United States passed 7,000 on Wednesday.
- Savannah Behrmann
Senate approves coronavirus bill for sick leave, free testing
The Senate approved a multibillion-dollar emergency aid package Wednesday that will provide paid sick and family leave for many Americans while also offering free testing for the coronavirus and bolstering unemployment insurance.
The 90-8 vote of approval comes after days of intense negotiations and maneuvers to keep broad bipartisan support for the package, the second Congress has passed to combat the coronavirus.
Eight Republican senators voted against the bill, Sen. Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee, Sen. Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma, Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, Sen. James Lankford of Oklahoma, Sen. Mike Lee of Utah, Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, Sen. Ben Sasse of Nebraska, and Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina.
Three senators offered three amendments to the bill, all of which failed. The three changes took on ways to offset the costs for the proposal, extending paid sick and family leave further and cut paid leave to instead expand unemployment for workers affected.
The bill will now be sent to the White House for President Trump’s signature.
The legislation marked the second phase of Congress’ work to address the dire impacts the virus is having on American life. Here’s what it will do:
Offer two weeks of paid sick and family leave to many American workers who are in quarantine, helping a family member with COVID-19 or who have children whose schools have closed. Workers will get 100% of their normal salary.
A total of 12 weeks of paid leave to many of those who have children whose schools have closed. Workers would get about 67% of their normal salary for this period.
Bolsters unemployment insurance
Free testing for the coronavirus for those who need it
Boosts food assistance (SNAP) and federal funding for Medicaid
Congress has already started working on a third stimulus package that is likely to address the needs of small businesses that are struggling due to the pandemic while also offering some type of cash assistance to Americans. There are also proposals for additional paid leave, bolstered help for the healthcare industry and relief for the airline and cruise industries. Senate leaders said they would not leave Washington until this third bill passes, which many hope will happen this week or next.
- Christal Hayes
Trump invokes Defense Production Act to address coronavirus crisis
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump confirmed that he plans to invoke a provision that would allow him to prohibit certain people from entering the country, including asylum seekers and those entering the country illegally at the southern border.
"The answer's yes," Trump told reporters when asked about the code, adding that he plans to invoke it "very soon. Probably today."
The administration will invoke 42 U.S. Code 265, a section of the federal legal code that states the U.S. surgeon general "shall have the power to prohibit, in whole or in part, the introduction of persons and property from such countries or places as he shall designate in order to avert such danger, and for such period of time as he may deem necessary for such purpose."
When asked again whether he was closing the U.S.-Mexico border, Trump said: "No we’re not going to close it."
"But we’re invoking a certain provision that will allow us great latitude," he added.
- Courtney Subramanian and John Fritze
Trump: no plans to pull China tariffs
President Donald Trump said he has no plans to suspend tariffs on China or other nations as part of the U.S.'s effort to battle the coronavirus.
“There is no reason to do that,” Trump said. “This (virus) was caused by something totally unrelated to tariffs.”
- Michael Collins
No 'tipping point' in decision to close US-Canada border
President Donald Trump said there was "no tipping point" in his joint decision with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to close the border between the two countries. Trump said he spoke to Trudeau and the pair decided they "want to isolate" people who may be sick from coming into contact with others.
"That's the way we're going to win this war," he said, adding that the move won't affect trade between the U.S. and Canada.
Trump said restrictions on the Canadian border blocking leisure travel would last for at least 30 days. "I would say 30 days," Trump said. "Hopefully at the end of 30 days we’ll be in great shape."
As it relates to the Southern Border: "No we’re not going to close it," Trump said of the Southern border, "but we’re invoking a certain provision that will allow us great latitude."
- Courtney Subramanian and David Jackson
Trump invokes Defense Production Act to speed resources
President Donald Trump said he is invoking the Defense Production Act, which allows the administration to expedite and expand the supply of resources. Trump did not say specifically what powers he would execute, but the act could allow him to step up production of respirators and other medical equipment.
Trump declined to say how, precisely, the Defense Production Act would be used and he suggested that the administration is still deciding. He said the administration had “targets” for equipment it wanted but did not say what those targets were.
“We need millions of masks,” Trump said. “We need respirators.”
The announcement comes as the White House and Congress negotiate a trillion-dollar economic stimulus plan to combat the impacts of the coronavirus outbreak.
Here's what else was said at the briefing:
Trump also said health officials are working on a "self swab" coronavirus test that would allow front line health care workers to test themselves for the virus. "It would free up a lot," Trump said.
Trump also announced he plans to hold an additional news conference either later Wednesday or early Thursday to discuss coronavirus progress at the Food and Drug Administration. Trump said he "asked the FDA to cut through the red tape and reduce regulatory barriers."
Vice President Mike Pence said the Canada border closing should not affect business relationships between the two countries: “This does not include essential travel or the transfer of goods."
The federal government is recommending Americans and doctors postpone elective surgeries, including dental surgery, to increase capacity at medical facilities, said Seema Verma, director of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. “We fully appreciate that this is going to have a major impact on the health care system,” Verma said.
Asked about the size of the checks Americans may receive as part of a relief effort, Trump would not say the amount of the checks. He said that is "to be determined .. we're working with the Senate now." He added: "It will shortly be determined.
Trump was asked why he repeatedly refers to the coronavirus as the "Chinese virus." He said the term is "not racist at all ... It comes from China. That's why."
Trump says he is a war-time president, saying the virus is an "enemy" that is wrecking the economy: "It's a very tough situation ... but we're doing it and we're doing it well.
Trump said the government is ordering “thousands and thousands” of ventilators in case they’re needed. The government already has a stockpile of more than 10,000 ventilators, Pence said.
Trump was asked why it seems well-connected people, such as professional athletes, are able to get tested : "You'd have to ask them that question ...(it's the) story of life .. That does happen.
- John Fritze, Courtney Subramanian, David Jackson and Michael Collins
Wilkie: 44 veterans have tested positive, 1 has died
Veteran Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie said 44 veterans have tested positive for the coronavirus and one, in Portland, has died. He said the agency had tested “several hundred.”
VA Secretary Robert Wilkie said his department is cutting back on non-essential medical activity in order to help respond to the coronavirus threat. He praised veterans for sacrificing some non-essential care to help with the effort.
- John Fritze
Trump said he doesn't agree with Mnuchin's 20% unemployment scenario
President Donald Trump took issue with Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin’s warning to lawmakers on Tuesday that unemployment could hit 20% unless steps are taken to stimulate the economy.
“I don’t agree with that,” Trump said. “That is an absolute, worst-case scenario.”
- Michael Collins
Pentagon to make 5 million masks available
Defense Secretary Mark Esper said the Pentagon would make 5 million masks available from its own reserves to the Department of Health and Human Services. He said the first million would be made available immediately.
Esper also said the Defense Department would make up to 2,000 operational ventilators available to HHS as needed. Two medical ships, Comfort and Mercy, will be deployed to assist with hospital beds. He said the Army Corps of Engineers in New York is meeting with Gov. Andrew Cuomo. He said the Defense Department remains "ready and capable" to defend the U.S. and interests abroad.
- Courtney Subramanian and David Jackson
Official: Millennials shoud take special precautions against coronavirus
Dr. Deborah Birx, a member of the White House coronavirus task force, said Wednesday that health officials are concerned about reports coming out of France and Italy that young people are getting ill.
Birx said the reports are worrisome because those who have been most at-risk have been the elderly or people with other health issues.
She urged “the millennial generation” to take special precautions. “You have the potential to spread it,” she said.
- Michael Collins
Pentagon has 89 coronavirus cases
The Pentagon has confirmed 89 COVID-19 cases among active-duty troops, their family members, civilian and contract employees, the Defense Department announced Tuesday.
Of the 89 infected by the virus, 14 have been hospitalized.
The virus has forced the cancellation of military exercises across the globe, prompted enhanced screening of troops in close proximity to one another, including pilots, and kept senior leaders apart for fear of contracting the disease.
Air Force Gen. David Goldfein, the Air Force chief of staff, told reporters Wednesday that he worked from home on Tuesday to mitigate the risk.
Travel has been restricted, and only personnel essential to critical missions are authorized to move, especially to or within countries hardest hit by the disease such as Italy.
Crews traveling to the air base at Aviano, Italy, stay in their aircraft as long as possible, and are kept as isolated as possible when moving to their quarters on base, Goldfein said.
The Air Force is “keeping them in a bubble,” he said.
- Tom Vanden Brook
Trump: HUD will 'suspend foreclosures and evictions'
President Donald Trump said the Department of Housing the Urban Development would "suspend foreclosures and evictions" through the end of April. It was not immediately clear whether that would apply to all housing or just housing financed through federally backed loans or subsidized with federal funding.
- John Fritze
McConnell: 'Burden' on small businesses must be addressed
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said the Senate will vote Wednesday on a House bill to protect workers from the coronavirus crisis but said the “burden” it places on small businesses will have to be addressed in the next stimulus package the Senate will take up in the coming days.
The House bill, which includes a controversial provision to guarantee paid sick leave for workers affected by the pandemic, is expected to pass and be sent to President Donald Trump for his expected signature.
Wisconsin GOP Sen. Ron Johnson is expected to propose an amendment to the House bill that changes the sick leave to unemployment insurance.
McConnell said House bill would impose “a new untested mandate on small business without guaranteeing they will have sufficient funds in advance to finance this new employee benefit.”
“Everyone agrees that workers need relief … but small businesses need relief as well," he said on the Senate floor Wednesday morning. "This is literally the worst time in living memory to pile even more burdens and costs onto small business which are themselves fighting to stay alive unless we back it up with major assistance.”
– Ledyard King
Schumer says stimulus won't pass under McConnell procedure
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said the latest coronavirus stimulus plan, the details of which are still being negotiated, would not pass the Senate by the end of the week under the current procedure led by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.
“Secretary Mnuchin says he wants legislation passed by the end of the week. The McConnell process will not get us there," he said.
On Tuesday, McConnell told reporters he had divided Republican senators into three working groups that would work with the Trump administration to come up with a plan Republicans would support. Schumer, instead, wanted negotiations between the House, Senate and Trump administration on a bipartisan basis.
"That's the way that's worked the best, the quickest, the fairest in the past," he said, calling the procedure McConnell had outlined as likely to lead to "delay and gridlock."
-Nicholas Wu
Trump: We're going to close Canada border to 'non-essential' traffic
President Donald Trump and his aides said Wednesday the United States and Canada are working on a deal to temporarily close the border to discretionary travel in order to fight the spread of coronavirus.
Trade should not be affected, Trump said.
"We will be, by mutual consent, temporarily closing our Northern Border with Canada to non-essential traffic," Trump tweeted. "Trade will not be affected. Details to follow!"
Canada, which announced border closures this week, has been negotiating with U.S. officials this week on rules for essential traffic.
– David Jackson
Trump to meet with airline execs, hold call with doctors
The Coronavirus Task Force will hold a 11:30 a.m. EDT news conference Wednesday to discuss the latest developments on the pandemic.
President Donald Trump also tweeted about holding a news conference with the Food and Drug Administration to "discuss very important news from the FDA" about the coronavirus.
His schedule is packed with meetings to discuss responses to the coronavirus. He has a phone call with airline executives, a business roundtable teleconference, a physician teleconference and a nurse briefing listed on his public schedule.
- Nicholas Wu
Senate plans to vote on sick leave, coronavirus testing bill
The Senate is planning to vote Wednesday on a legislative package that will offer billions to bolster unemployment insurance, offer free coronavirus testing and paid sick and family leave for Americans following days of intense negotiations and pleas for lawmakers to quickly approve the legislation.
The bill is expected to pass the Senate and then be sent to President Donald Trump for his signature. The vote comes after Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin briefed Senate Republicans and appeased some concerns about the ramifications sick and family leave could have on small businesses that are already feeling the economic effects of the virus.
Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., is planning to offer an amendment to the legislation before the Senate votes on the measure. The amendment would offer a way to offset the costs of the bill by using funds that would “include ending our decades-long involvement in Afghanistan,” his office said in a statement.
Paul offered a similar proposal earlier this month to offset costs when the Senate took up a bill offering roughly $8 billion for states and local entities to prevent the spread of the virus and help bolster efforts to create a vaccine. The effort was shot down by his Senate colleagues.
- Christal Hayes
More: Coronavirus updates: US death toll reaches 114 as Kansas cancels in-person classes for entire school year
More: Biden stays in the driver's seat, coronavirus changes our elections and other takeaways from Tuesday's vote
Trump administration personnel chief abruptly resigns
The director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management has resigned, leaving a key vacancy at a time when federal employees – like other work forces around the country – are wresting with how to respond to the coronavirus pandemic.
OPM said in a statement that the agency received the resignation of Dale Cabaniss, a longtime Republican official who President Donald Trump named to the post last year.
Cabaniss battled with John McEntee, who Trump named this year to lead the White House personnel office, according to several reports citing unnamed officials. McEntee’s appointment came at a time when Trump acknowledged he was seeking to elevate White House employees who have proven their loyalty to him.
Federal offices in Washington expected to remain open Wednesday but provided “maximum telework flexibilities” to eligible workers because of coronavirus. Trump and public health officials have advised Americans to work from home whenever possible.
- John Fritze
More: 'A big, bold package': Trump calls for pumping $1 trillion into economy to counter coronavirus hit


usatoday--2020-03-19--Congress weighs cash for Americans, lifelines for business after Trump signs coronavirus sick leave

WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump Wednesday signed a measure to ensure paid sick leave for workers and widen coronavirus testing after its passage in the Senate .
Now , Congress is crafting its next emergency relief package : one that would provide checks of $ 1,000 or more for Americans and financial lifelines for businesses socked by the coronavirus pandemic that is ravaging the economy and upending daily life .
Senators overwhelmingly supported a House bill that covers the cost of all coronavirus testing , expands federal food programs serving low-income seniors and needy families , and provides paid sick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home .
The bill , Families First Coronavirus Response Act , would : • Offer two weeks of paid sick and family leave to many American workers who have been forced to stay home because of COVID-19 or who have children whose schools have closed .
Workers will get 100 % of their normal salary .
• Provide up to 12 weeks of paid leave to many of those who have children whose schools have closed .
Workers would get about 67 % of their normal salary for this period .
• Provide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who need it .
• Boost food assistance ( SNAP ) for needy families and federal funding for Medicaid .
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell reluctantly voted for the bill the House passed Saturday , saying that despite burdens the sick leave provisions place on small businesses , it was `` a very important step '' to help families confront the intensifying pandemic .
But the Kentucky Republican also said work has already begun with the Trump administration on another emergency package , the centerpiece of which is likely to be direct payments @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a way to get money into the hands of consumers quickly and rescue the beleaguered economy .
“ We 're looking at sending checks to Americans immediately , '' Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin said Tuesday , although he did not say how big those checks might be .
Utah Republican Mitt Romney has suggested a one-time payment of $ 1,000 .
Stimulus checks : What we know ( and do n't ) The upcoming bill also is expected to help major industries besieged by a widespread shutdown of the economy , such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including restaurants who are being forced to close around the country but find themselves having to provide mandated paid leave under the Families First bill .
Democrats said federal aid included in the Families First bill will alleviate the sting to those businesses .
McConnell said Wednesday that while he was eager to help small businesses shoulder new sick leave requirements , he was n't sure how long it would take to iron out the next relief package .
`` Just how long it will take to get through these steps is unclear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the vote .
`` But as everyone knows , we are moving rapidly because the situation demands it . ''
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said negotiations on the next phase of relief are gearing up .
“ The House and Senate are already hard at work on the third bill in the House ’ s Families First agenda , which will take bold , historic action on behalf of America ’ s workers and families , '' she said in a statement after the Senate 's vote .
`` This bill will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health , labor , non-profit and business communities , so that we can deliver the most effective , evidence-based response .
The crisis has already tanked the stock market , forced business to close and led to the lay off thousands of workers across the country .
Trump said he is invoking the Defense Production Act , which allows the administration to expedite and expand the supply of resources .
Trump did not say specifically what powers he would execute , but the act could allow him to step up production of respirators @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which Trump and other lawmakers have touted as an industry vital to America 's recovery , would likely get a boost as well , though it 's not clear whether that help would come in the form of loans or grants .
`` Before this current public health crisis , U.S. airlines were transporting a record 2.5 million passengers and 58,000 tons of cargo each day , '' Nicholas Calio , president and CEO of the trade association representing major airlines said in a statement before Wednesday 's vote .
`` Today , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ far outpace new bookings for U.S. carriers , planes are only 20-30 % full and new bookings are implying 70-80 percent declines in traffic even as airlines make dramatic cuts in capacity – and this is getting worse each day with no end in sight . ''
Stocks tank : Dow loses nearly all its gains under Trump on coronavirus fears GOP senators Marco Rubio of Florida and Susan Collins of Maine also have a introduced a $ 300 billion small business emergency economic relief plan that will help small businesses impacted by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expenses .
And McConnell said small businesses who have just been saddled with new sick leave mandates under the Families First bill will need some help as a result .
Economic fallout : Simon Property Group closing all of its malls due to coronavirus starting 7 p.m. Wednesday “ Everyone agrees that workers need relief … but small businesses need relief as well , '' he said on the Senate floor Wednesday before the vote .
`` This is literally the worst time in living memory to pile even more burdens and costs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fighting to stay alive unless we back it up with major assistance.
” Democrats have already signaled they 'll be looking to expand sick leave for workers in the next bill as well .
That 's likely to be a stumbling block with Republicans who control the Senate .
A proposal from Wisconsin GOP Sen. Ron Johnson to amend the Families First bill by replacing sick leave with unemployment insurance was defeated on the floor along party lines .

Ledyard King, Nicholas Wu and Christal Hayes, USA TODAY

Congress weighs cash for Americans, lifelines for business after Trump signs coronavirus sick leave bill
Show Caption Hide Caption Top 3 COVID-19 questions answered by an epidemiologist An epidemiologist answers the biggest questions she's getting about coronavirus. USA TODAY, Wochit
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump Wednesday signed a measure to ensure paid sick leave for workers and widen coronavirus testing after its passage in the Senate.
Now, Congress is crafting its next emergency relief package: one that would provide checks of $1,000 or more for Americans and financial lifelines for businesses socked by the coronavirus pandemic that is ravaging the economy and upending daily life.
Senators overwhelmingly supported a House bill that covers the cost of all coronavirus testing, expands federal food programs serving low-income seniors and needy families, and provides paid sick leave for workers forced to stay at home.
The vote was passed 90-8.
The bill, Families First Coronavirus Response Act, would:
Offer two weeks of paid sick and family leave to many American workers who have been forced to stay home because of COVID-19 or who have children whose schools have closed. Workers will get 100% of their normal salary.
Provide up to 12 weeks of paid leave to many of those who have children whose schools have closed. Workers would get about 67% of their normal salary for this period.
Bolster unemployment insurance protections.
Provide free testing for the coronavirus for those who need it.
Boost food assistance (SNAP) for needy families and federal funding for Medicaid.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell reluctantly voted for the bill the House passed Saturday, saying that despite burdens the sick leave provisions place on small businesses, it was "a very important step" to help families confront the intensifying pandemic.
But the Kentucky Republican also said work has already begun with the Trump administration on another emergency package, the centerpiece of which is likely to be direct payments to Americans that Trump has promoted as a way to get money into the hands of consumers quickly and rescue the beleaguered economy.
“We're looking at sending checks to Americans immediately," Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin said Tuesday, although he did not say how big those checks might be. Utah Republican Mitt Romney has suggested a one-time payment of $1,000.
Stimulus checks: What we know (and don't)
The upcoming bill also is expected to help major industries besieged by a widespread shutdown of the economy, such as the airlines, and help small businesses including restaurants who are being forced to close around the country but find themselves having to provide mandated paid leave under the Families First bill.
Democrats said federal aid included in the Families First bill will alleviate the sting to those businesses.
McConnell said Wednesday that while he was eager to help small businesses shoulder new sick leave requirements, he wasn't sure how long it would take to iron out the next relief package.
"Just how long it will take to get through these steps is unclear," McConnell said on the floor after the vote. "But as everyone knows, we are moving rapidly because the situation demands it."
Drastic measures: Trump invokes wartime authority of Defense Production Act to address coronavirus crisis - live updates
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said negotiations on the next phase of relief are gearing up.
“The House and Senate are already hard at work on the third bill in the House’s Families First agenda, which will take bold, historic action on behalf of America’s workers and families," she said in a statement after the Senate's vote. "This bill will be crafted in consultation with the public health, labor, non-profit and business communities, so that we can deliver the most effective, evidence-based response.
The crisis has already tanked the stock market, forced business to close and led to the lay off thousands of workers across the country.
Trump said he is invoking the Defense Production Act, which allows the administration to expedite and expand the supply of resources. Trump did not say specifically what powers he would execute, but the act could allow him to step up production of respirators and other medical equipment.
Airlines, which Trump and other lawmakers have touted as an industry vital to America's recovery, would likely get a boost as well, though it's not clear whether that help would come in the form of loans or grants.
"Before this current public health crisis, U.S. airlines were transporting a record 2.5 million passengers and 58,000 tons of cargo each day," Nicholas Calio, president and CEO of the trade association representing major airlines said in a statement before Wednesday's vote. "Today, carriers are burning through cash as cancellations far outpace new bookings for U.S. carriers, planes are only 20-30% full and new bookings are implying 70-80 percent declines in traffic even as airlines make dramatic cuts in capacity – and this is getting worse each day with no end in sight."
Changing traditions: Congress mulls voting remotely to avoid coronavirus threat
Stocks tank: Dow loses nearly all its gains under Trump on coronavirus fears
GOP senators Marco Rubio of Florida and Susan Collins of Maine also have a introduced a $300 billion small business emergency economic relief plan that will help small businesses impacted by the coronavirus pandemic make payroll and cover expenses.
And McConnell said small businesses who have just been saddled with new sick leave mandates under the Families First bill will need some help as a result.
Economic fallout: Simon Property Group closing all of its malls due to coronavirus starting 7 p.m. Wednesday
“Everyone agrees that workers need relief … but small businesses need relief as well," he said on the Senate floor Wednesday before the vote. "This is literally the worst time in living memory to pile even more burdens and costs on to small business which are themselves fighting to stay alive unless we back it up with major assistance.”
Democrats have already signaled they'll be looking to expand sick leave for workers in the next bill as well. That's likely to be a stumbling block with Republicans who control the Senate.
A proposal from Wisconsin GOP Sen. Ron Johnson to amend the Families First bill by replacing sick leave with unemployment insurance was defeated on the floor along party lines.


usatoday--2020-03-18--OnPolitics: A ton happened today. Here are two things could directly matter to you

President Trump on Tuesday invoked the Defense Production Act , a wartime authority that allows him to direct industry to produce critical equipment , to confront the spiraling crisis over coronavirus pandemic .
Sen. Jack Reed , the ranking Democrat on the Armed Services Committee , said the authority is needed now for fast production of ventilators and other medical equipment needed to treat patients critically ill with the disease .
The Senate approved a multibillion-dollar emergency aid package Wednesday that will provide paid sick and family leave for many Americans while also offering free testing for the coronavirus and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what it will do : • Offer two weeks of paid sick and family leave to many American workers who are in quarantine , helping a family member with COVID-19 or who have children whose schools have closed .
Workers will get 100 % of their normal salary .
• A total of 12 weeks of paid leave to many of those who have children whose schools have closed .
Workers would get about 67 % of their normal salary for this period .
• Free testing for the coronavirus for those who @ @

OnPolitics: A ton happened today. Here are two things could directly matter to you
Trump invokes wartime authority
President Trump on Tuesday invoked the Defense Production Act, a wartime authority that allows him to direct industry to produce critical equipment, to confront the spiraling crisis over coronavirus pandemic.
Sen. Jack Reed, the ranking Democrat on the Armed Services Committee, said the authority is needed now for fast production of ventilators and other medical equipment needed to treat patients critically ill with the disease.
Senate aid for sick leave, testing
The Senate approved a multibillion-dollar emergency aid package Wednesday that will provide paid sick and family leave for many Americans while also offering free testing for the coronavirus and bolstering unemployment insurance.
Here’s what it will do:


usatoday--2020-03-18--Stimulus check: What we know (and don't)

The Senate approved ( 90-8 ) a multibillion-dollar emergency aid package Wednesday that will provide paid family and sick leave for many Americans during the coronavirus pandemic .
The bill is now off to President Donald Trump , who is expected to sign it .
Additionally , the Treasury Department unveiled to lawmakers a plan for $ 250 billion in direct payments to Americans starting April 6 .
A lot of the details of this proposal are still up in the air , but it already has support from the administration .
Here 's what we know – and do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ details stem from a proposal and are subject to change .
We will update , as needed .
Who is issuing the money ?
The proposal was put together by the Treasury Department and pitched to Congress by Secretary Steve Mnuchin .
In the proposal reviewed by ABC News , the third wave of appropriations by Congress would ostensibly include two $ 250 billion rounds of direct payments to individual taxpayers .
How much would each person get ?
While the president was reluctant to say an actual figure on Tuesday , The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ receive two $ 1,000 payments under the plan .
`` We are also playing with a lot of numbers , a lot of very big numbers and a lot of very small numbers , frankly , '' President Trump said during a press conference on Wednesday .
Details on which income brackets and qualifications on who would receive the payments are still unclear .
According to the proposal , the first payment would be issued beginning on April 6 .
Another wave of payments would be distributed to taxpayers beginning on May 18 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during the appropriations process in Congress .
The last time the federal government sent checks to Americans was in 2008 , under President George W. Bush .
The Economic Stimulus Act was signed into law on Feb. 13 , 2008 , and provided individual tax relief in the form of tax rebates – as much as $ 600 for individuals , $ 1,200 for married couples , and additional rebates for families with children .
But the money did n't start going out until late April .
Where is this money coming from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday afternoon is known as `` phase two . ''
The stimulus checks , if considered and approved , would come as part of a trillion-dollar `` phase three '' package .
Lawmakers are expected to start negotiations as soon as Wednesday night .
What other financial assistance efforts is the government putting forward ?
The aid package approved on Wednesday will provide paid sick and family leave , offer free coronavirus testing , and bolster unemployment insurance .
Payments on student loan interest are also on hold , as the president said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ national emergency .
`` I 've waived interest on all student loans held by federal government agencies , and that will be until further notice , '' Trump said .

Stimulus check: What we know (and don't)
Show Caption Hide Caption Coronavirus: What to expect in a recession, depression The coronavirus (COVID-19) is impacting the global economy and raising fears of a recession. What causes a recession and what are the signs? Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
President Donald Trump has signed a $2 trillion relief package that aims to soften the blow of the coronavirus pandemic on the economy.
Now the Trump administration must rapidly pump hundreds of billions of dollars into the economy in the form of direct payments, loans and grants to hard-hit industries such as the airlines.
The stimulus package will provide $1,200 checks to many Americans – and more for families – while making available hundreds of billions of dollars for companies to maintain payroll through the crisis. It significantly expands the nation’s unemployment safety net and it directs a huge infusion of cash to hospitals and other medical facilities on the front line of fighting the pandemic.
Here's what we know – and don't. Details are subject to change. We will update, as needed.
What we know: How the $2T coronavirus stimulus will affect you and the economy
Your money is important: All the money tips and advice delivered right to your inbox. Sign up here
How much would each person get?
Individuals with an adjusted gross income of $75,000 or less will be eligible for up to $1,200 ($2,400 for joint tax returns) and $500 for each qualifying child. Those with little or no tax liability also will get $1,200 ($2,400 for joint returns).
The payments will start to phase out for Americans who earn more than $75,000, or $150,000 for a joint return. The amount you receive will be decreased by 5% of the amount your income exceeds $75,000. For example, a single person with an $85,000 salary would get $700 after subtracting 5% of $10,000, or $500.
The payments will phase out completely for single filers with incomes exceeding $99,000, $136,500 for head of household filers with one child, and $198,000 for joint filers with no children.
If you've already filed your 2019 taxes, the IRS will use those returns to determine your rebate. If not, your 2018 returns will be used to calculate your check.
When would checks arrive?
Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin last week said on Fox Business that "as soon as Congress passes this, we will get this out in three weeks."
However, specific dates would most likely change during the appropriations process in Congress.
Individuals who have set up a direct deposit with the IRS can expect the sum quicker than those who have to wait for a check in the mail.
The last time the federal government sent checks to Americans was in 2008, under President George W. Bush. The Economic Stimulus Act was signed into law on Feb. 13, 2008, and provided individual tax relief in the form of tax rebates – as much as $600 for individuals, $1,200 for married couples, and additional rebates for families with children. But the money didn't start going out until late April.
Where is this money coming from?
Taxes, in short.
The previous bill signed by Trump on is known as "phase two." The stimulus checks come as part of the $2-trillion "phase three" package.
What other financial assistance efforts is the government putting forward?
The Senate agreed to an expansion of unemployment benefits that would extend jobless insurance by 13 weeks and include a four-month enhancement of benefits and include freelancers, furloughed employees and the self-employed.
The previous aid bill signed by Trump provides paid sick and family leave, offers free coronavirus testing and bolsters unemployment insurance.
As reported by USA TODAY's Chris Quitana: The federal government will no longer withhold portions of borrowers' tax returns and Social Security payments, the Education Department said Wednesday. And borrowers whose paychecks were garnished will be entitled to their full wage — although their employers must make the change to their paycheck.
McConnell added last week that the Department of Housing and Urban Development would suspend foreclosures and evictions on FHA-insured mortgages.
Contributing: Nicholas Wu
Follow Josh Rivera on Twitter: @Josh1Rivera


usatoday--2020-03-18--Wartime authority and eviction relief: Here are the major changes announced by Trump's coronavirus t

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump and the White House coronavirus task force announced the administration is enacting a wartime provision in response to the spread of the virus , and referred to the virus as an `` enemy . ''
It 's just one step the task force has taken to combat the coronavirus pandemic .
In a series of press conferences over the last several days , the president has declared a national emergency and warned that Americans may need to practice social distancing through the summer .
Here are the updates the White House team gave on Wednesday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Act grants the president the ability to direct the production of certain equipment .
Trump did not say specifically how the administration plans to use the wartime authority , but it could allow for the expansion of the production of vital medical supplies like face masks and ventilators .
Trump said the White House has `` targets '' for equipment .
“ We need millions of masks , ” Trump said .
“ We need respirators.
” 'How bad is this ? '
It 's bad ' : Trump shifts tone as pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gives Trump the authority to direct private companies for matters of public defense .
And in 2009 that authority was expanded by Congress to allow for preparation for emergency response services .
Reports of a shortage of personal protective equipment at hospitals continue to surface .
On Tuesday , the White House task force requested that construction companies donate any heavy duty N95 masks they have to hospitals and stop ordering more from manufacturers .
Trump said that the Department Housing and Urban Development would suspend foreclosures and evictions through the end of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has resulted in layoffs and missed work .
Also on Wednesday , the Federal Housing Finance Agency said it would suspend foreclosures and evictions for at least 60 days for single-family homeowner mortgages backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac .
Border between US and Canada closing Trump announced earlier Wednesday that the border between the U.S. and Canada would temporarily close to discretionary travel , though it will remain open to trade .
He said it was a mutual agreement with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau .
`` We will be , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Northern Border with Canada to non-essential traffic , '' Trump tweeted Wednesday .
At the coronavirus task force press conference Trump said the restrictions would likely last for 30 days .
Trump also confirmed that he plans to invoke a provision that would allow him to prohibit certain people from entering the country , including asylum seekers and those entering the country illegally at the southern border .
But , he said , the U.S. would not be closing the southern border .
The federal government is recommending health care providers and patients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospital resources for urgent coronavirus cases .
Officials have warned that a surge in cases could overwhelm the health care system , underscoring the need for social distancing measures .
“ We fully appreciate that this is going to have a major impact on the health care system , ” said Seema Verma , director of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services .
Trump also said health officials are working on a `` self swab '' coronavirus test that would allow front-line health care workers to test themselves for the virus .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Trump said .
Defense Secretary Mark Esper said the Pentagon would also make 5 million masks available from its reserves to the Department of Health and Human Services , with the first million immediately available .
The Defense Department will also make up to 2,000 ventilators available as needed , Esper said .
And Trump said the government is ordering `` thousands and thousands '' of ventilators in case they are needed to treat coronavirus patients .
Dr. Deborah Birx said at the Wednesday press conference that other countries have reported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus , which has been officials have advised affects the elderly and medically vulnerable the most .
`` You have the potential to spread it , '' Birx said of the millennial generation .
She urged young people to take precautions .
The task force has been asking Americans to avoid contact with others so they reduce the risk of unknowingly transmitting the virus , without showing symptoms , to those who could be the most impacted .

Wartime authority and eviction relief: Here are the major changes announced by Trump's coronavirus task force
Show Caption Hide Caption Coronavirus: Donald Trump invokes Defense Production Act President Donald Trump announced he is invoking the Defense Production Act to address the coronavirus crisis. Associated Press, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump and the White House coronavirus task force announced the administration is enacting a wartime provision in response to the spread of the virus, and referred to the virus as an "enemy."
It's just one step the task force has taken to combat the coronavirus pandemic. In a series of press conferences over the last several days, the president has declared a national emergency and warned that Americans may need to practice social distancing through the summer.
Here are the updates the White House team gave on Wednesday to combat COVID-19:
Defense Production Act
The Defense Production Act grants the president the ability to direct the production of certain equipment. Trump did not say specifically how the administration plans to use the wartime authority, but it could allow for the expansion of the production of vital medical supplies like face masks and ventilators. Trump said the White House has "targets" for equipment.
“We need millions of masks,” Trump said. “We need respirators.”
'How bad is this?' It's bad': Trump shifts tone as pandemic worsens, crisis hits economy
The act gives Trump the authority to direct private companies for matters of public defense. And in 2009 that authority was expanded by Congress to allow for preparation for emergency response services.
Reports of a shortage of personal protective equipment at hospitals continue to surface. On Tuesday, the White House task force requested that construction companies donate any heavy duty N95 masks they have to hospitals and stop ordering more from manufacturers.
HUD to suspend foreclosures, evictions
Trump said that the Department Housing and Urban Development would suspend foreclosures and evictions through the end of April amid the coronavirus outbreak, which has resulted in layoffs and missed work.
Also on Wednesday, the Federal Housing Finance Agency said it would suspend foreclosures and evictions for at least 60 days for single-family homeowner mortgages backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.
Border between US and Canada closing
Trump announced earlier Wednesday that the border between the U.S. and Canada would temporarily close to discretionary travel, though it will remain open to trade. He said it was a mutual agreement with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
"We will be, by mutual consent, temporarily closing our Northern Border with Canada to non-essential traffic," Trump tweeted Wednesday.
At the coronavirus task force press conference Trump said the restrictions would likely last for 30 days.
Trump also confirmed that he plans to invoke a provision that would allow him to prohibit certain people from entering the country, including asylum seekers and those entering the country illegally at the southern border. But, he said, the U.S. would not be closing the southern border.
Measures to alleviate strain on health care system
The federal government is recommending health care providers and patients postpone any elective procedures to free up hospital resources for urgent coronavirus cases. Officials have warned that a surge in cases could overwhelm the health care system, underscoring the need for social distancing measures.
“We fully appreciate that this is going to have a major impact on the health care system,” said Seema Verma, director of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Trump also said health officials are working on a "self swab" coronavirus test that would allow front-line health care workers to test themselves for the virus. "It would free up a lot," Trump said.
Defense Secretary Mark Esper said the Pentagon would also make 5 million masks available from its reserves to the Department of Health and Human Services, with the first million immediately available. The Defense Department will also make up to 2,000 ventilators available as needed, Esper said.
And Trump said the government is ordering "thousands and thousands" of ventilators in case they are needed to treat coronavirus patients.
Millennials should take precautions
Dr. Deborah Birx said at the Wednesday press conference that other countries have reported that young people are becoming ill from the coronavirus, which has been officials have advised affects the elderly and medically vulnerable the most.
"You have the potential to spread it," Birx said of the millennial generation. She urged young people to take precautions.
The task force has been asking Americans to avoid contact with others so they reduce the risk of unknowingly transmitting the virus, without showing symptoms, to those who could be the most impacted.
Contributing: Courtney Subramanian, John Fritze, David Jackson, Tom Vanden Brook


usatoday--2020-03-18--Trump invokes wartime authority of Defense Production Act to address coronavirus crisis

President Donald Trump announced he is invoking the Defense Production Act to address the coronavirus crisis .

Coronavirus: Donald Trump invokes Defense Production Act
President Donald Trump announced he is invoking the Defense Production Act to address the coronavirus crisis.
Associated Press, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-03-18--Hospital ships deployed to help with coronavirus pandemic

Coronavirus : Navy hospital ships deployed to help with pandemic President Trump says two U.S , Navy hospital ships , @ @ @ @ @ will be launched to help with the coronavirus pandemic .
One will go to NYC @

Coronavirus: Navy hospital ships deployed to help with pandemic
President Trump says two U.S, Navy hospital ships, the Mercy and Comfort, will be launched to help with the coronavirus pandemic. One will go to NYC.
Associated Press, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-03-18--Pence says closing U.S.-Canada border for non-essential travel done by 'mutual consent'

The U.S.-Canada border closing for non-essential travel was done by `` mutual consent , '' Vice President Mike Pence said @

Coronavirus: Pence on new U.S.-Canada non-essential travel restriction
The U.S.-Canada border closing for non-essential travel was done by "mutual consent," Vice President Mike Pence said.
Associated Press, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-03-18--Trump on calling coronavirus the 'Chinese virus': 'I have to call it where it came from'

President Donald Trump has continued to refer to coronavirus as the `` Chinese virus , '' causing many to double @ @ @ @ @ avoid stigma .

Coronavirus: Donald Trump defends calling COVID-19 the 'Chinese virus'
President Donald Trump has continued to refer to coronavirus as the "Chinese virus," causing many to double down on their calls to avoid stigma.
Associated Press, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-03-18--'How bad is this?' It's bad.' Trump shifts tone as pandemic worsens, crisis hits economy

WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump was minutes into his remarks Monday when he turned away from his talking points to put the U.S. response to the coronavirus pandemic in personal terms .
`` I 've spoken , actually , with my son , '' the president said , referencing 13-year-old Barron Trump .
`` He says , 'How bad is this ? '
It 's bad .
It 's bad .
But we 're going to be hopefully a best case , not a worst case . ''
Trump 's invocation of his son underscored the fear millions of Americans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but it was also the latest demonstration of a shift in tone for a president who once described concerns over the public health crisis as a `` hoax '' and who has often mocked the idea of sounding `` presidential . ''
For weeks , Trump compared the coronavirus to the less deadly flu and suggested it might `` miraculously '' disappear this spring .
On March 9 , he wrote on Twitter that even though `` 37,000 Americans died from the common Flu '' last year , `` Nothing is shut down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
He went on to mention that at the time there were only 546 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the U.S. and 22 deaths .
As of Wednesday , though , the U.S. death toll reached 114 and there were more than 6,490 confirmed coronavirus cases .
In recent days , Trump has used near-daily appearances to declare a national emergency over coronavirus , warn that Americans could be cooped up in their homes for months and acknowledge that the U.S. economy could be headed to a recession .
That marked a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ address only a week ago when the president offered scant details about how the nation would respond .
While he has publicly conceded hard realities about the virus , Trump has also embraced a more urgent tone and somber mien that is less overtly political than the rough-and-tumble approach cheered by his supporters .
He has read more from prepared remarks , sometimes flipping the pages of his statement .
He has often deferred to the public health officials who he brings on stage with him every day to discuss the virus .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ work with him on a `` big , bold '' stimulus package to counter the economic damage from the coronavirus pandemic and backed the idea of sending cash to Americans to help them pay their bills .
`` We don ’ t want airlines going out of business or people losing their jobs and not having money to live , ” he told a news conference .
'It 's very safe to fly ' : Trump assures public during coronavirus meeting with airline execs Recession risk : Trump acknowledges U.S. 'may be ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also urged Americans to remain vigilant and limit gatherings to 10 people for at least two more weeks .
`` We have to fight that invisible enemy , I guess unknown , but we are getting to know it quickly , '' he said .
`` One day we will be standing up here and be saying , 'Well , we won . '
'' Some Democrats and critics of the president have given him credit for the shift , while also arguing it took too long for Trump to get on board @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come together ?
Asked if a bitterly divided Washington can unite to craft legislation that meets the moment , Sen. Doug Jones , D-Ala. , said Trump 's shift in tone could make a difference .
`` It 's going to be a lot easier than people think now that the president has finally started looking at this as ... serious as it is , '' Jones told reporters in a conference call .
`` You ’ re going to see people coming together . ''
The coronavirus represents a dire threat to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could have profound effect on Trump 's reelection chances this year .
Trump has felt an obligation to encourage Americans to remain optimistic , said White House aides speaking on the condition of anonymity , but that effort has been complicated by the daily gyrations on Wall Street including Monday 's major selloff .
Still , Trump critics questioned how long the more measured approach would last .
`` We heard new words from the White House yesterday – better ones – but at this point , words alone are n't enough .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ron Klain , who served as President Barack Obama 's point on the 2014 Ebola outbreak .
Trump has not abandoned his trademark finger-pointing .
He has continued to refer repeatedly to the coronavirus as the `` Chinese virus , '' a phrase critics say is xenophobic and aimed at riling up anger at Beijing to shift the conversation away from flaws in the U.S. response .
`` For the people that are now out of work because of the important and necessary containment policies , for instance the shutting down of hotels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soon be coming to you .
The onslaught of the Chinese Virus is not your fault ! ''
Trump tweeted Wednesday .
He slammed what he called the `` Fake News '' narrative that he has n't taken the crisis seriously enough and was slow to mobilize the full force of the federal government to respond to it .
`` I always treated the Chinese Virus very seriously , '' he wrote on Twitter .
Asked at Tuesday 's news conference if he was stigmatizing Chinese citizens by repeatedly using that phrase , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the origins of the virus .
`` I have to call it where it came from , '' Trump said .
The president has also kept up his broadsides on political opponents , including some he will need to work with to address the coronavirus .
He slammed New York Gov .
Andrew Cuomo in a tweet on Monday , arguing he needed to `` do more '' to confront a spike in cases outside of New York City .
On Tuesday he argued that `` failing '' Michigan Gov .
Gretchen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much more proactive . ''
Trump 's criticism of Whitmer came after the Democratic governor said the federal government was unprepared for the virus .
But Trump also showed capacity to temper the animosity and lower swords with opponents .
In a turnaround Tuesday , Trump said he had spoken to Cuomo hours earlier and that they had a `` great '' conversation at that both were `` doing a really good job . ''
Trump added that he felt Albany and Washington were on the `` same track . ''
Trump dismissed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and denied reports that a sobering European study released this week altered his sense of the seriousness of virus .
“ I have seen that , where people actually liked it , ” Trump said of reports about his more somber tone .
`` There was no difference yesterday from days before .
I feel the tone is similar , but some people said it was n't . ''

John Fritze and David Jackson, USA TODAY

'How bad is this?' It's bad.' Trump shifts tone as pandemic worsens, crisis hits economy
Show Caption Hide Caption Coronavirus: What to expect in a recession, depression The coronavirus (COVID-19) is impacting the global economy and raising fears of a recession. What causes a recession and what are the signs? Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump was minutes into his remarks Monday when he turned away from his talking points to put the U.S. response to the coronavirus pandemic in personal terms.
"I've spoken, actually, with my son," the president said, referencing 13-year-old Barron Trump. "He says, 'How bad is this?' It's bad. It's bad. But we're going to be hopefully a best case, not a worst case."
Trump's invocation of his son underscored the fear millions of Americans have felt as they confront COVID-19, but it was also the latest demonstration of a shift in tone for a president who once described concerns over the public health crisis as a "hoax" and who has often mocked the idea of sounding "presidential."
For weeks, Trump compared the coronavirus to the less deadly flu and suggested it might "miraculously" disappear this spring.
On March 9, he wrote on Twitter that even though "37,000 Americans died from the common Flu" last year, "Nothing is shut down, life & the economy go on." He went on to mention that at the time there were only 546 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the U.S. and 22 deaths. As of Wednesday, though, the U.S. death toll reached 114 and there were more than 6,490 confirmed coronavirus cases.
So last year 37,000 Americans died from the common Flu. It averages between 27,000 and 70,000 per year. Nothing is shut down, life & the economy go on. At this moment there are 546 confirmed cases of CoronaVirus, with 22 deaths. Think about that! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 9, 2020
In recent days, Trump has used near-daily appearances to declare a national emergency over coronavirus, warn that Americans could be cooped up in their homes for months and acknowledge that the U.S. economy could be headed to a recession.
'Invisible enemy'
That marked a strong contrast to a rushed Oval Office address only a week ago when the president offered scant details about how the nation would respond.
While he has publicly conceded hard realities about the virus, Trump has also embraced a more urgent tone and somber mien that is less overtly political than the rough-and-tumble approach cheered by his supporters. He has read more from prepared remarks, sometimes flipping the pages of his statement. He has often deferred to the public health officials who he brings on stage with him every day to discuss the virus.
On Tuesday, Trump urged Congress to work with him on a "big, bold" stimulus package to counter the economic damage from the coronavirus pandemic and backed the idea of sending cash to Americans to help them pay their bills.
"We don’t want airlines going out of business or people losing their jobs and not having money to live,” he told a news conference.
'It's very safe to fly': Trump assures public during coronavirus meeting with airline execs
Recession risk: Trump acknowledges U.S. 'may be' headed toward economic downturn over coronavirus
Trump also urged Americans to remain vigilant and limit gatherings to 10 people for at least two more weeks.
"We have to fight that invisible enemy, I guess unknown, but we are getting to know it quickly," he said. "One day we will be standing up here and be saying, 'Well, we won.'"
Some Democrats and critics of the president have given him credit for the shift, while also arguing it took too long for Trump to get on board with public health officials.
Can Washington come together?
Asked if a bitterly divided Washington can unite to craft legislation that meets the moment, Sen. Doug Jones, D-Ala., said Trump's shift in tone could make a difference.
"It's going to be a lot easier than people think now that the president has finally started looking at this as...serious as it is," Jones told reporters in a conference call. "You’re going to see people coming together."
The coronavirus represents a dire threat to the U.S. economy, which in turn could have profound effect on Trump's reelection chances this year. Trump has felt an obligation to encourage Americans to remain optimistic, said White House aides speaking on the condition of anonymity, but that effort has been complicated by the daily gyrations on Wall Street including Monday's major selloff.
Markets recovered slightly on Tuesday, posting gains.
Still, Trump critics questioned how long the more measured approach would last.
"We heard new words from the White House yesterday – better ones – but at this point, words alone aren't enough. We should judge actions," said Ron Klain, who served as President Barack Obama's point on the 2014 Ebola outbreak.
Trump has not abandoned his trademark finger-pointing. He has continued to refer repeatedly to the coronavirus as the "Chinese virus," a phrase critics say is xenophobic and aimed at riling up anger at Beijing to shift the conversation away from flaws in the U.S. response.
"For the people that are now out of work because of the important and necessary containment policies, for instance the shutting down of hotels, bars and restaurants, money will soon be coming to you. The onslaught of the Chinese Virus is not your fault!" Trump tweeted Wednesday.
I always treated the Chinese Virus very seriously, and have done a very good job from the beginning, including my very early decision to close the “borders” from China - against the wishes of almost all. Many lives were saved. The Fake News new narrative is disgraceful & false! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 18, 2020
He slammed what he called the "Fake News" narrative that he hasn't taken the crisis seriously enough and was slow to mobilize the full force of the federal government to respond to it.
"I always treated the Chinese Virus very seriously," he wrote on Twitter.
Broadsides against political foes
Asked at Tuesday's news conference if he was stigmatizing Chinese citizens by repeatedly using that phrase, Trump accused Beijing of spreading false information about the origins of the virus.
"I have to call it where it came from," Trump said.
The president has also kept up his broadsides on political opponents, including some he will need to work with to address the coronavirus. He slammed New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo in a tweet on Monday, arguing he needed to "do more" to confront a spike in cases outside of New York City. On Tuesday he argued that "failing" Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer "must work harder and be much more proactive."
Trump's criticism of Whitmer came after the Democratic governor said the federal government was unprepared for the virus.
But Trump also showed capacity to temper the animosity and lower swords with opponents. In a turnaround Tuesday, Trump said he had spoken to Cuomo hours earlier and that they had a "great" conversation at that both were "doing a really good job." Trump added that he felt Albany and Washington were on the "same track."
Trump dismissed the idea that his rhetoric had changed and denied reports that a sobering European study released this week altered his sense of the seriousness of virus.
“I have seen that, where people actually liked it,” Trump said of reports about his more somber tone. "There was no difference yesterday from days before. I feel the tone is similar, but some people said it wasn't."
Contributing: Deborah Barfield Berry