usatoday--2020-03-10--'Like preparing for a hurricane': Lawmakers worry about coronavirus hitting them while helping manag

WASHINGTON – After casting a vote in the House on Monday , Rep. Lois Frankel used a tissue to open a chamber door and exit the floor .
She showed off a small bottle of hand sanitizer stowed in her purse , a product that has become a prized possession after selling out in stores .
Frankel is also washing her hands – `` a lot '' – while worrying about how the rapidly spreading coronavirus will affect families , communities , businesses and the economy .
`` It 's like preparing for a hurricane , '' the Florida Democrat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 've got to be prepared and hope for the best . ''
Those winds could blow powerfully through the halls of Congress where many – like the 71-year-old Frankel – are in the at-risk age bracket .
Their jobs are all about public interaction and frequent travel .
Handshakes are the coin of the realm .
Millions of tourists , constituents and lobbyists visit each year and spring is the busiest season .
Anxiety has been rising on Capitol Hill as at least half a dozen lawmakers who 've come in contact with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ North Carolina Rep. Mark Meadows who is about to become President Donald Trump 's chief of staff – with a few closing their offices .
White House : Trump has not been tested for coronavirus , despite indirect contact Congressional leaders have so far decided not to temporarily recess .
`` At the present time , there is no reason for us not to continue with our vital legislative work in the Capitol , '' House Speaker Nancy Pelosi , D-Calif. , wrote to lawmakers Monday night .
She 'd already noted to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be done remotely , `` We ca n't vote from home . ''
And she reinforced that to her colleagues at Democrats ' closed-door caucus meeting Tuesday .
“ We are the captains of the ship , '' she said , according to two Democratic sources .
`` We are the last to leave . ''
But Capitol Hill 's health and safety officials continue to monitor the fast moving situation .
Lawmakers were scheduled to be briefed by officials Tuesday and President Donald Trump was scheduled to go to Capitol Hill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ package aimed at curbing the impacts of coronavirus .
CDC Director Robert Redfield told lawmakers Tuesday that the nation had “ underinvested ” in public health labs and hospitals are already nearly at full capacity for dealing with flu victims with respiratory problems .
“ We really don ’ t have a lot of resiliency in the capacity of our health care system , ” he said .
Some were already taking action on their own .
They 've turned town hall meetings into Facebook Live events or teleconferences , limited travel and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ greeting and encouraged staff to work from home .
A note on the office door of Rep. Pete Aguilar announces the California Democrat and his staff are `` foregoing all handshakes . ''
Instead , they recommend “ a polite elbow bump ” or a “ friendly wave ” or even “ a full rendition of Adele ’ s 2015 hit , ‘ Hello.
’ ” But Sen. Tim Kaine was among the lawmakers finding shaking hands a `` hard habit to break.
” “ We are in a profession where we are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are interacting with them , ” said the Virginia Democrat .
“ It ’ s challenging.
” An easier step for Kaine was doubling the amount of sick time each employee receives .
“ I do n't want anyone feeling a little bit sick and then [ saying ] ‘ I don ’ t have a sick day , I should come in , ' '' he explained .
Rep Liz Cheney , R-Wyo.
, the No .
3 House Republican , skipped a House Republican leadership retreat over the weekend in an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Many of us have people in our families who are particularly vulnerable and , after consulting with physicians , Liz determined the best approach is to limit participation in non-essential gatherings , ” her spokesman , Jeremy Adler , said .
Sen. Richard Shelby , R-Ala. , is trying to cut down on any unnecessary traveling noting that at 85-years-old , he is in the age group that is most at risk .
“ I think the main thing is , life goes on and we try to carry on but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world for all of us , ” he said .
“ We just have to be alert .
Do n't panic and be smart.
” The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has advised people over 60 and those with underlying health problems to avoid large crowds .
The average age in the Senate is 63 .
In the House , it 's a spry 58 .
“ I just don ’ t see how you make all of these folks get on a plane twice a week , ” said a senior @ @ @ @ @ @ @ members are worried about their health and “ they should be.
” Protecting yourself from coronavirus : Here 's what you need to know Delaware Sen. Chris Coons , 58 , said he ’ s washed or sanitized his hands “ probably 10 times today.
” Lawmakers have to worry about not being conduits or recipients of the virus while working on the nation 's response to the outbreak .
Multiple coronavirus-related hearings are scheduled for this week .
Congressional check writers on Tuesday grilled the head of the CDC over how it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ administration 's proposed budget cuts for the agency .
CDC Director Robert Redfield told lawmakers that the nation had “ underinvested ” in public health labs and hospitals are already nearly at full capacity for dealing with flu victims with respiratory problems .
“ We really don ’ t have a lot of resiliency in the capacity of our health care system , ” he testified .
Members of the House Homeland Security Committee are asking how state health officials view the situation and want to hear how federal officials are responding .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus-related cancellations as well as the effects of the virus on small businesses and on their supply chains .
Sen. Chuck Grassley , the Iowa Republican who heads the Senate Finance Committee , is considering targeted tax relief measures .
Economic help ?
: Donald Trump floats payroll tax cut , other financial relief for businesses and workers as coronavirus spreads Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer , D-N.Y. , released Sunday a list of actions they say are needed to help families get through the outbreak , including enhanced unemployment benefits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus .
The package may be introduced this week though not necessarily not voted on .
`` If members of Congress can go on self imposed quarantine and still get paid , '' Rep. Ruben Gallego , D-Ariz. , tweeted Monday , `` It only makes sense that Congress should pass emergency laws to give paid sick leave to every American until this emergency is over . ''
Gallego 's Arizona colleague , Republican Rep. Paul Gosar , was among those who , at the recent Conservative Political Action Conference , came in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positive for the virus .
Gosar closed his office `` out of an abundance of caution '' and is self-quarantining at home as are three senior members of his staff .
`` I 'm doing my reading , doing interviews , '' Gosar told Fox News .
`` Been thinking about life and mortality today , '' he tweeted Monday , along with a photo of armored warriors in bloody battle , inspiring a meme .
`` I ’ d rather die gloriously in battle than from a virus .
In a way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it kinda does . ''
Some who were in Washington for the Sept. 11 , 2001 , terrorist attacks and the letters containing anthrax spores that were mailed to Democratic senators Tom Daschle and Patrick Leahy weeks later , were having flashbacks .
`` This feels like November of 2001 , '' said Brad Fitch , head of the Congressional Management Foundation .
`` You had uncertainty both ( about ) your personal future and your office ’ s future and your capability to continue delivering services.
” A Senate office building and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of now Vice President Mike Pence who is leading the administration 's response to the coronavirus – were closed for months .
Daschle , who ’ s spoken to a number of lawmakers in recent days , said he ’ s “ heartened ” by the serious approach members have taken .
“ Frankly I applaud those members who have been exposed to coronavirus in different events over the last couple of weeks who self-quarantine .
I think it ’ s the right thing to do , ” the former Democratic Senate leader @ @ @ @ @ @ @ foundation works both with congressional offices to improve operations and with citizen groups to be effective advocates , is aware of multiple groups that have cancelled planned visits .
One group whose members had already flown in from all over the country decided once they got to Washington to replace the planned in-person meetings with phone calls .
`` This is the busiest season for fly-ins , '' Fitch said , noting the groups can be as large as 1,000 or more .
`` No group wants to either expose their own membership @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plane , or the Congress . ''
Whether Congress should recess for an extended period is a judgment call that should be guided by health professionals , Daschle said .
“ There ’ s a balance there , ” he said .
“ It can ’ t be businesses a usual .
But at the same time , there is the possibility of overreaction .
So finding that balance and doing what appears to be the most prudent is critical and that ’ s a leadership call and a science call.
” Rep. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ felt a bit concerned returning to Washington Monday after watching the news and seeing several of his colleagues had come into contact with someone who tested positive for the virus .
`` It does create a kind of depression , '' Cohen said .
`` You get a little bit down about it.
” But while some members were calling for Congress to take a break , Cohen said he trusts the speaker to make the right call .
“ I think Nancy Pelosi knows best , ” he said with a smile @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
She says it 's time to go home , I 'll go home .
She says it 's time to come to school , I ’ m coming to school.
” Here 's the latest on the outbreak of COVID-19 : Oops : Family says they bought 12-year supply of toilet paper by accident Is it safe to ride ?
: Coronavirus fears are challenging public transit agencies Health or a paycheck ?
: Workers with no paid sick leave face tough choice amid coronavirus scare

Maureen Groppe and Christal Hayes, USA TODAY

'Like preparing for a hurricane': Lawmakers worry about coronavirus hitting them while helping manage response
Show Caption Hide Caption Coronavirus: Most 'Googled' questions answered With help from the CDC, we answer some of Google's most searched questions about the coronavirus crisis. USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – After casting a vote in the House on Monday, Rep. Lois Frankel used a tissue to open a chamber door and exit the floor.
She showed off a small bottle of hand sanitizer stowed in her purse, a product that has become a prized possession after selling out in stores.
Frankel is also washing her hands – "a lot" – while worrying about how the rapidly spreading coronavirus will affect families, communities, businesses and the economy.
"It's like preparing for a hurricane," the Florida Democrat said, "which is, you've got to be prepared and hope for the best."
Those winds could blow powerfully through the halls of Congress where many – like the 71-year-old Frankel – are in the at-risk age bracket. Their jobs are all about public interaction and frequent travel. Handshakes are the coin of the realm. Millions of tourists, constituents and lobbyists visit each year and spring is the busiest season.
Anxiety has been rising on Capitol Hill as at least half a dozen lawmakers who've come in contact with an infected person are self-quarantining – including North Carolina Rep. Mark Meadows who is about to become President Donald Trump's chief of staff – with a few closing their offices.
White House: Trump has not been tested for coronavirus, despite indirect contact
Staying in session
Congressional leaders have so far decided not to temporarily recess.
"At the present time, there is no reason for us not to continue with our vital legislative work in the Capitol," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., wrote to lawmakers Monday night.
She'd already noted to reporters last week that while some work can be done remotely, "We can't vote from home."
And she reinforced that to her colleagues at Democrats' closed-door caucus meeting Tuesday.
“We are the captains of the ship," she said, according to two Democratic sources. "We are the last to leave."
Coronavirus updates: World death toll passes 4,000, lockdown paralyzes Italy, US markets open with massive gain
But Capitol Hill's health and safety officials continue to monitor the fast moving situation. Lawmakers were scheduled to be briefed by officials Tuesday and President Donald Trump was scheduled to go to Capitol Hill to meet with lawmakers on a stimulus package aimed at curbing the impacts of coronavirus.
CDC Director Robert Redfield told lawmakers Tuesday that the nation had “underinvested” in public health labs and hospitals are already nearly at full capacity for dealing with flu victims with respiratory problems.
“We really don’t have a lot of resiliency in the capacity of our health care system,” he said.
Hard habits to break
Some were already taking action on their own. They've turned town hall meetings into Facebook Live events or teleconferences, limited travel and meetings, figured out alternative forms of greeting and encouraged staff to work from home.
A note on the office door of Rep. Pete Aguilar announces the California Democrat and his staff are "foregoing all handshakes."
Instead, they recommend “a polite elbow bump” or a “friendly wave” or even “a full rendition of Adele’s 2015 hit, ‘Hello.’”
But Sen. Tim Kaine was among the lawmakers finding shaking hands a "hard habit to break.”
“We are in a profession where we are with a ton of people and we are interacting with them,” said the Virginia Democrat. “It’s challenging.”
An easier step for Kaine was doubling the amount of sick time each employee receives.
“I don't want anyone feeling a little bit sick and then [saying] ‘I don’t have a sick day, I should come in,'" he explained.
Cutting back on travel, meetings
Rep Liz Cheney, R-Wyo., the No. 3 House Republican, skipped a House Republican leadership retreat over the weekend in an attempt to limit attendance at non-critical meetings.
“Many of us have people in our families who are particularly vulnerable and, after consulting with physicians, Liz determined the best approach is to limit participation in non-essential gatherings,” her spokesman, Jeremy Adler, said.
Sen. Richard Shelby, R-Ala., is trying to cut down on any unnecessary traveling noting that at 85-years-old, he is in the age group that is most at risk.
“I think the main thing is, life goes on and we try to carry on but this is a real concern in the world for all of us,” he said. “We just have to be alert. Don't panic and be smart.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has advised people over 60 and those with underlying health problems to avoid large crowds. The average age in the Senate is 63. In the House, it's a spry 58.
“I just don’t see how you make all of these folks get on a plane twice a week,” said a senior Democratic aide said, adding that some members are worried about their health and “they should be.”
Protecting yourself from coronavirus: Here's what you need to know
Delaware Sen. Chris Coons, 58, said he’s washed or sanitized his hands “probably 10 times today.”
Focusing on coronavirus
Lawmakers have to worry about not being conduits or recipients of the virus while working on the nation's response to the outbreak.
Multiple coronavirus-related hearings are scheduled for this week.
Congressional check writers on Tuesday grilled the head of the CDC over how it's handling of the crisis and the administration's proposed budget cuts for the agency.
CDC Director Robert Redfield told lawmakers that the nation had “underinvested” in public health labs and hospitals are already nearly at full capacity for dealing with flu victims with respiratory problems.
“We really don’t have a lot of resiliency in the capacity of our health care system,” he testified.
Members of the House Homeland Security Committee are asking how state health officials view the situation and want to hear how federal officials are responding.
Other panels are examining travel insurance for virus-related cancellations as well as the effects of the virus on small businesses and on their supply chains.
Sen. Chuck Grassley, the Iowa Republican who heads the Senate Finance Committee, is considering targeted tax relief measures.
Economic help?: Donald Trump floats payroll tax cut, other financial relief for businesses and workers as coronavirus spreads
Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., released Sunday a list of actions they say are needed to help families get through the outbreak, including enhanced unemployment benefits and free testing and treatment for the virus. The package may be introduced this week though not necessarily not voted on.
"If members of Congress can go on self imposed quarantine and still get paid," Rep. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., tweeted Monday, "It only makes sense that Congress should pass emergency laws to give paid sick leave to every American until this emergency is over."
Self-quarantining
Gallego's Arizona colleague, Republican Rep. Paul Gosar, was among those who, at the recent Conservative Political Action Conference, came in contact with a person who later tested positive for the virus.
Gosar closed his office "out of an abundance of caution" and is self-quarantining at home as are three senior members of his staff.
"I'm doing my reading, doing interviews," Gosar told Fox News.
He's also tweeting.
"Been thinking about life and mortality today," he tweeted Monday, along with a photo of armored warriors in bloody battle, inspiring a meme. "I’d rather die gloriously in battle than from a virus. In a way it doesn’t matter. But it kinda does."
Been thinking about life and mortality today. I’d rather die gloriously in battle than from a virus. In a way it doesn’t matter. But it kinda does. pic.twitter.com/m6vU5RTQHJ — Paul Gosar (@DrPaulGosar) March 9, 2020
Flashbacks to 2001
Some who were in Washington for the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and the letters containing anthrax spores that were mailed to Democratic senators Tom Daschle and Patrick Leahy weeks later, were having flashbacks.
"This feels like November of 2001," said Brad Fitch, head of the Congressional Management Foundation. "You had uncertainty both (about) your personal future and your office’s future and your capability to continue delivering services.”
A Senate office building and a few House offices – including that of now Vice President Mike Pence who is leading the administration's response to the coronavirus – were closed for months.
Daschle, who’s spoken to a number of lawmakers in recent days, said he’s “heartened” by the serious approach members have taken.
“Frankly I applaud those members who have been exposed to coronavirus in different events over the last couple of weeks who self-quarantine. I think it’s the right thing to do,” the former Democratic Senate leader told USA TODAY.
Fitch, whose foundation works both with congressional offices to improve operations and with citizen groups to be effective advocates, is aware of multiple groups that have cancelled planned visits. One group whose members had already flown in from all over the country decided once they got to Washington to replace the planned in-person meetings with phone calls.
"This is the busiest season for fly-ins," Fitch said, noting the groups can be as large as 1,000 or more. "No group wants to either expose their own membership by asking them to get on a plane, or the Congress."
Whether Congress should recess for an extended period is a judgment call that should be guided by health professionals, Daschle said.
“There’s a balance there,” he said. “It can’t be businesses a usual. But at the same time, there is the possibility of overreaction. So finding that balance and doing what appears to be the most prudent is critical and that’s a leadership call and a science call.”
Rep. Steve Cohen, D-Tenn., said he felt a bit concerned returning to Washington Monday after watching the news and seeing several of his colleagues had come into contact with someone who tested positive for the virus.
"It does create a kind of depression," Cohen said. "You get a little bit down about it.”
But while some members were calling for Congress to take a break, Cohen said he trusts the speaker to make the right call.
“I think Nancy Pelosi knows best,” he said with a smile. “She's my congressional mother. She says it's time to go home, I'll go home. She says it's time to come to school, I’m coming to school.”
Contributing: Ledyard King, USA TODAY.
Here's the latest on the outbreak of COVID-19:
Travel fallout: Amerian, Delta cutting global and domestic flights
Oops: Family says they bought 12-year supply of toilet paper by accident
Is it safe to ride?: Coronavirus fears are challenging public transit agencies
Health or a paycheck?: Workers with no paid sick leave face tough choice amid coronavirus scare


usatoday--2020-03-10--Trump and his Democratic rivals forced to consider whether to cancel rallies over coronavirus

WASHINGTON – Since the beginning of the year President Donald Trump has made a point of holding campaign rallies before every Democratic primary election .
But as fears over the spread of coronavirus ripple across the country , a Trump rally on the eve of the primary in the key battleground state of Michigan was notably absent from his schedule .
Instead , he flew to Orlando , Florida for a fundraising event after spending the weekend at his Mar-a-Lago resort .
Trump was photographed shaking hands with supporters upon his arrival in Florida , even as health officials have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ personal interactions with others .
COVID-19 has shown no signs of slowing its spread across the U.S .
Confirmed cases surpassed 600 across more than 30 states and the District of Columbia on Monday .
The U.S. death toll rose to 22 , while the worldwide total approached 4,000 .
`` I 'm not concerned at all , '' the president told reporters Saturday when asked if he was troubled by the cases around Washington .
`` No , we 've done a great job with it . ''
Cities across the country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are canceling classes to curb regional outbreaks of coronavirus , raising fresh questions about whether Trump and his Democratic challengers – Sen. Bernie Sanders and former Vice President Joe Biden – should be holding campaign rallies that attract thousands of people .
All three men are also in their 70s , an age bracket that is particularly vulnerable to the effects of COVID-19 .
When asked whether the president should continue with campaign rallies during a press briefing Monday , Anthony Fauci , director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it a `` judgment call . ''
He told reporters that it `` might be a good judgment '' to hold a rally in a place where there 's no community spread , but added : `` If you want to talk about large gatherings in a place where you have a community spread , I think that 's a judgment call and if someone decides they will cancel it I would n't publicly criticize them . ''
Coronavirus spreading in the U.S. : Here 's everything to know But former FDA commissioner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the campaigns should be focusing on protecting the candidates from the risk of transfer of coronavirus as they crisscross the U.S. amid uncertainty over affected areas .
`` They fly around the country , they see different audiences , they 're in regions where there could be outbreaks we have n't detected yet , '' he said .
`` I think it would be smart for the campaigns and political leaders to lead by example and start to curtail large gatherings , '' Gottlieb said , noting that the U.S. has asked municipalities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have proactively told employees to work remotely amid the panic .
`` For the campaigns to lead by example and do that would be very important to send a powerful message , '' he added .
'You ca n't be a politician and not shake hands' Trump has indicated he is n't making changes to his routine because of the coronavirus .
A self-acknowledged germophobe who is said to frequently slather his hands with sanitzer , Trump recently told Fox News there is no way to politely avoid shaking hands .
`` You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shake hands , '' he said at a town hall in Scranton , Pennsylvania , on Thursday .
`` The bottom line is , I shake anybody 's hand now .
I 'm proud of it . ''
Tim Murtaugh , director of communications for the Trump campaign , dismissed reports that there was any scaling back of the president 's events over coronavirus .
He said the `` main consideration for rallies is President Trump 's schedule . ''
He pointed out Trump attended last week 's rally before North Carolina 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and fundraising events over the weekend and on Monday .
`` The campaign is proceeding normally .
We will announce rallies when they are ready to be announced , '' Murtaugh said .
Coronavirus panic : Donald Trump floats payroll tax cut , other financial relief for businesses But the rally and the town hall came before the American Conservative Union announced Saturday that one of the attendees at last month 's Conservative Political Action Conference in National Harbor , Maryland , had tested positive for the coronavirus .
Trump and Vice President @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which was held Feb. 26-29 .
The group said the man , a New Jersey resident , was exposed to the virus before the conference , where he `` had no interaction with the President or Vice President . ''
An image emerged over the weekend of Trump shaking hands with Matt Schlapp , the chairman of the American Conservative Union , who acknowledged he was in direct contact with the individual who tested positive over the four-day conference .
While the timeline of events was unclear , a `` Women for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off Monday featuring Schlapp 's wife , Mercedes Schlapp , was suspended due to `` scheduling conflicts '' and not because of coronavirus , according to campaign spokesman Ali Pardo .
Administration officials have also downplayed concerns over the virus inching closer to the president .
But since Saturday 's announcement , several Republican lawmakers who came in contact with the individual at CPAC have said they are self-quarantining as a precaution .
Two of those lawmakers – Rep. Matt Gaetz and Rep. Doug Collins – have been in close contact with Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no indication the president has had any exposure to coronavirus , the growing list of lawmakers who have and are in close proximity to the president underscores how much the outbreak poses a threat to both Trump 's health and his re-election bid .
`` I don ’ t know if Trump is risking his health by campaigning , but he ’ s certainly taking a big political risk .
If the coronavirus continues to spread , Democrats will accuse Trump of prioritizing politics over public health , '' said Alex Conant , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sen. Marco Rubio 's campaign .
`` Kissing babies and shaking lots of hands does n't seem like a good idea in the midst of a contagious epidemic .
Nobody wants to get their supporters sick . ''
The White House has echoed the Trump campaign 's sentiment .
White House Press Secretary Stephanie Grisham said Monday `` while we have asked all Americans to exercise common-sense hygiene measures , we are conducting business as usual . ''
Trump is slated to speak at the Republican Jewish Coalition meeting in Las Vegas this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ canceled a Beverly Hills fundraiser scheduled March 18 .
Grisham said it was due to `` scheduling conflicts . ''
The Secret Service announced Monday it was being updated on coronavirus developments and working with medical authorities as an extension of the agency ’ s protective mission .
What 's new : Coronavirus live updates : Another cruise ship kept from port ; NY making its own sanitizer ; stock market freefall “ The agency is currently working in partnership with the White House Medical Unit to ensure the safety and wellness of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ House staff , ” Secret Service spokeswoman Cathy Milhoan said .
“ For operational security reasons , the U.S. Secret Service does not disclose security methods or procedures.
” The Democratic candidates are also continuing to campaign even as more coronavirus cases continue to crop up across the country .
Sen. Bernie Sanders , whose rallies routinely draw several thousands , said the issue weighs on his mind but he did not announce any plans to change the protocol for those gatherings .
“ It ’ s something we have thought about a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ roundtable in Detroit with medical officials discussing the effects of the coronavirus .
“ We do not hold a rally without first conferring with local public health officials….I think every organization in American is taking a hard look at what the coronavirus will mean to their operations and , yes , that is true of our campaign as well.
” The senator told CNN host Chris Cuomo he 's `` used more hand sanitizer in the last two weeks than I ’ ve used in my entire life . ''
Biden 's campaign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offered by federal and local public health officials on the types of events we hold and how we execute them .
Video shared online showed attendees slathering on hand sanitizer as they entered a Biden event .
`` In contrast with our current president , who not only doesn ’ t amplify the guidance that the experts offer – but directly contradicts it – Vice President Biden and our team will lead by example in following expert advice and complying with reasonable risk mitigations , '' the Biden campaign said in the statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we will continue to run an aggressive , national campaign to win the Democratic nomination and defeat Donald Trump . ''
As of Monday afternoon , Biden and Sanders had not formally requested Secret Service protection , though the agency has been preparing for months to take on expanded protection duties for multiple candidates for the 2020 campaign .
Once teams are assigned , agents typically received detailed medial briefings for them and their families to account for such things as food allergies to chronic illnesses .
The Democratic National Committee also said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ primary debate on Sunday .
The debate , which is being hosted by CNN and Univision , will be held in Arizona .
Five cases of coronavirus have been reported in the state .
The DNC said they `` are in touch with local officials and will follow their guidance . ''
But as presidential candidates forge ahead , Gottlieb , who served as the head of the Food and Drug Administration between May 2017 and April 2019 , warned the months ahead will be difficult as health officials across the country work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , both new and old cases that have gone undetected .
`` I think that this is going to play out over the next two months , but you 're really going to see a change I think in the country 's perception and mood and approach over the next two weeks and things will look a lot different , '' he said .

Trump and his Democratic rivals forced to consider whether to cancel rallies over coronavirus
Show Caption Hide Caption Coronavirus death rate 'false' according to Trump's 'hunch' The coronavirus death rate is now at 3.4%, according to the World Health Organization. President Trump claims that number is false. USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – Since the beginning of the year President Donald Trump has made a point of holding campaign rallies before every Democratic primary election. But as fears over the spread of coronavirus ripple across the country, a Trump rally on the eve of the primary in the key battleground state of Michigan was notably absent from his schedule.
Instead, he flew to Orlando, Florida for a fundraising event after spending the weekend at his Mar-a-Lago resort. Trump was photographed shaking hands with supporters upon his arrival in Florida, even as health officials have warned to avoid public gatherings and limit personal interactions with others.
COVID-19 has shown no signs of slowing its spread across the U.S. Confirmed cases surpassed 600 across more than 30 states and the District of Columbia on Monday. The U.S. death toll rose to 22, while the worldwide total approached 4,000.
"I'm not concerned at all," the president told reporters Saturday when asked if he was troubled by the cases around Washington. "No, we've done a great job with it."
Cities across the country have scrapped high-profile music festivals while universities are canceling classes to curb regional outbreaks of coronavirus, raising fresh questions about whether Trump and his Democratic challengers – Sen. Bernie Sanders and former Vice President Joe Biden – should be holding campaign rallies that attract thousands of people. All three men are also in their 70s, an age bracket that is particularly vulnerable to the effects of COVID-19.
'Judgment call'
When asked whether the president should continue with campaign rallies during a press briefing Monday, Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, largely evaded the question and called it a "judgment call."
He told reporters that it "might be a good judgment" to hold a rally in a place where there's no community spread, but added: "If you want to talk about large gatherings in a place where you have a community spread, I think that's a judgment call and if someone decides they will cancel it I wouldn't publicly criticize them."
Coronavirus spreading in the U.S.: Here's everything to know
Hillary Clinton cautions against Trump's coronavirus policies Hillary Clinton says Trump's health care policies have made coronavirus a bigger risk than it needs to be. Josmar Taveras, USA TODAY
But former FDA commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb told USA TODAY that the campaigns should be focusing on protecting the candidates from the risk of transfer of coronavirus as they crisscross the U.S. amid uncertainty over affected areas.
"They fly around the country, they see different audiences, they're in regions where there could be outbreaks we haven't detected yet," he said.
"I think it would be smart for the campaigns and political leaders to lead by example and start to curtail large gatherings," Gottlieb said, noting that the U.S. has asked municipalities to scale back public events and businesses have proactively told employees to work remotely amid the panic.
"For the campaigns to lead by example and do that would be very important to send a powerful message," he added.
'You can't be a politician and not shake hands'
Trump has indicated he isn't making changes to his routine because of the coronavirus. A self-acknowledged germophobe who is said to frequently slather his hands with sanitzer, Trump recently told Fox News there is no way to politely avoid shaking hands.
"You can't be a politician and not shake hands," he said at a town hall in Scranton, Pennsylvania, on Thursday. "The bottom line is, I shake anybody's hand now. I'm proud of it."
Tim Murtaugh, director of communications for the Trump campaign, dismissed reports that there was any scaling back of the president's events over coronavirus. He said the "main consideration for rallies is President Trump's schedule."
He pointed out Trump attended last week's rally before North Carolina's primary election, the Scranton town hall and fundraising events over the weekend and on Monday.
"The campaign is proceeding normally. We will announce rallies when they are ready to be announced," Murtaugh said.
Coronavirus panic: Donald Trump floats payroll tax cut, other financial relief for businesses
But the rally and the town hall came before the American Conservative Union announced Saturday that one of the attendees at last month's Conservative Political Action Conference in National Harbor, Maryland, had tested positive for the coronavirus. Trump and Vice President Mike Pence both spoke at the event, which was held Feb. 26-29.
The group said the man, a New Jersey resident, was exposed to the virus before the conference, where he "had no interaction with the President or Vice President."
An image emerged over the weekend of Trump shaking hands with Matt Schlapp, the chairman of the American Conservative Union, who acknowledged he was in direct contact with the individual who tested positive over the four-day conference.
While the timeline of events was unclear, a "Women for Trump" bus tour due to kick off Monday featuring Schlapp's wife, Mercedes Schlapp, was suspended due to "scheduling conflicts" and not because of coronavirus, according to campaign spokesman Ali Pardo.
Administration officials have also downplayed concerns over the virus inching closer to the president. But since Saturday's announcement, several Republican lawmakers who came in contact with the individual at CPAC have said they are self-quarantining as a precaution. Two of those lawmakers – Rep. Matt Gaetz and Rep. Doug Collins – have been in close contact with Trump in recent days.
Business as usual?
While there is no indication the president has had any exposure to coronavirus, the growing list of lawmakers who have and are in close proximity to the president underscores how much the outbreak poses a threat to both Trump's health and his re-election bid.
"I don’t know if Trump is risking his health by campaigning, but he’s certainly taking a big political risk. If the coronavirus continues to spread, Democrats will accuse Trump of prioritizing politics over public health," said Alex Conant, a Republican strategist who worked on Florida Sen. Marco Rubio's campaign.
"Kissing babies and shaking lots of hands doesn't seem like a good idea in the midst of a contagious epidemic. Nobody wants to get their supporters sick."
The White House has echoed the Trump campaign's sentiment. White House Press Secretary Stephanie Grisham said Monday "while we have asked all Americans to exercise common-sense hygiene measures, we are conducting business as usual."
Trump is slated to speak at the Republican Jewish Coalition meeting in Las Vegas this weekend, but First lady Melania Trump canceled a Beverly Hills fundraiser scheduled March 18. Grisham said it was due to "scheduling conflicts."
The Secret Service announced Monday it was being updated on coronavirus developments and working with medical authorities as an extension of the agency’s protective mission.
What's new:Coronavirus live updates: Another cruise ship kept from port; NY making its own sanitizer; stock market freefall
“The agency is currently working in partnership with the White House Medical Unit to ensure the safety and wellness of the president, First Family and White House staff,” Secret Service spokeswoman Cathy Milhoan said. “For operational security reasons, the U.S. Secret Service does not disclose security methods or procedures.”
The Democratic candidates are also continuing to campaign even as more coronavirus cases continue to crop up across the country.
Sen. Bernie Sanders, whose rallies routinely draw several thousands, said the issue weighs on his mind but he did not announce any plans to change the protocol for those gatherings.
“It’s something we have thought about a lot,” Sanders said during a roundtable in Detroit with medical officials discussing the effects of the coronavirus.
“We do not hold a rally without first conferring with local public health officials….I think every organization in American is taking a hard look at what the coronavirus will mean to their operations and, yes, that is true of our campaign as well.”
The senator told CNN host Chris Cuomo he's "used more hand sanitizer in the last two weeks than I’ve used in my entire life."
Biden's campaign also said they are following "guidance offered by federal and local public health officials on the types of events we hold and how we execute them.
Video shared online showed attendees slathering on hand sanitizer as they entered a Biden event.
People walking into the @JoeBiden rally in Detroit are being given hand sanitizer upon entry. Same was offered to the press corps. pic.twitter.com/sWLPbm8vxs — Sarah Mucha (@sarahmucha) March 9, 2020
"In contrast with our current president, who not only doesn’t amplify the guidance that the experts offer – but directly contradicts it – Vice President Biden and our team will lead by example in following expert advice and complying with reasonable risk mitigations," the Biden campaign said in the statement.
"At the same time, we will continue to run an aggressive, national campaign to win the Democratic nomination and defeat Donald Trump."
As of Monday afternoon, Biden and Sanders had not formally requested Secret Service protection, though the agency has been preparing for months to take on expanded protection duties for multiple candidates for the 2020 campaign.
Once teams are assigned, agents typically received detailed medial briefings for them and their families to account for such things as food allergies to chronic illnesses.
The Democratic National Committee also said they will not cancel the upcoming Democratic primary debate on Sunday. The debate, which is being hosted by CNN and Univision, will be held in Arizona. Five cases of coronavirus have been reported in the state.
The DNC said they "are in touch with local officials and will follow their guidance."
But as presidential candidates forge ahead, Gottlieb, who served as the head of the Food and Drug Administration between May 2017 and April 2019, warned the months ahead will be difficult as health officials across the country work to mitigate the acceleration of the virus, both new and old cases that have gone undetected.
"I think that this is going to play out over the next two months, but you're really going to see a change I think in the country's perception and mood and approach over the next two weeks and things will look a lot different," he said.
Contributing: John Fritze, Ledge King, Rebecca Morin and Kevin Johnson


usatoday--2020-03-12--Biden, Sanders take podium in presidential-style addresses to lay out coronavirus plans

WASHINGTON – Former Vice President Joe Biden and Sen. Bernie Sanders , the two top Democratic presidential candidates , on Thursday looked to spell out precisely what made them the best candidate to handle a world crisis like coronavirus .
In livestreamed speeches standing behind lecterns , both Biden and Sanders laid out how their administrations would tackle the growing pandemic .
Their remarks came less than 24 hours after President Donald Trump announced he was going to suspend travel from EU countries for non-U.S. citizens during the next 30 days to try to slow the spread of the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday left aides scrambling to correct several points , and as of Thursday , there was no plan in place from lawmakers on Capitol Hill to move forward with .
“ When I 'm president , we will be better prepared , respond better and recover better , ” Biden told reporters at a press conference in Delaware .
Sanders a few hours later echoed the sentiments of his Democratic counterpart .
“ Now is the time for solidarity .
Now is the time to come together with love and compassion for all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our society , who will face this pandemic , ” Sanders told reporters at a press conference in Vermont .
“ Unfortunately , in this time of international crisis , it is clear to me at least , that we have an administration that is largely incompetent and whose incompetence and recklessness have threatened the lives of many , many people in our country.
” The plans outline key areas , such as the economy , lack of information on coronavirus and lack of resources in the health care industry , that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to address in a meaningful way .
In Biden ’ s plan , the former vice president says his administration would work to stop misinformation about coronavirus that has caused confusion and discrimination , increase testing for coronavirus and make the tests free , ensure hospitals can handle the surge of expected patients , expand paid family leave for those who get sick and offer economic relief for those who lose their job during this crisis .
Sanders offered similar points but said first that Trump should declare a national emergency .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sure the public and private sectors are working together to relay correct and accurate information to the public , including what symptoms to watch for , and make a vaccine or other effective treatment is free when it ’ s developed , and also offer economic assistance such as paid family and medical leave and unemployment assistance .
New legislation aimed at helping Americans get through the coronavirus has yet to be passed by Congress .
And following Trump 's Wednesday night address , there was another day of massive losses on Wall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Americans hurried to catch flights back to the United States .
Nearly half surveyed in a new USA TODAY/Ipsos Poll said the new coronavirus , also known as COVID-19 , posed a high level of threat to the stock market and to the global economy .
Comparatively , just 15 % said it was a high threat to them personally .
Both Sanders and Biden expressed hope amid the growing crisis .
“ Now in the difficult days ahead , I know that this country will summon the spirit , the empathy , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Biden said .
“ Because in times of crisis the American people , always , always stand as one if told the truth.
” Sanders noted that while many are working from home , including him , Americans must not think that they are alone .
“ If there ever was a time in the modern history of our country when we are all in this together , this is that moment , ” Sanders said .

Biden, Sanders take podium in presidential-style addresses to lay out coronavirus plans
Show Caption Hide Caption Watch: Biden delivers address on coronavirus in Wilmington Joe Biden spoke in Wilmington on Thursday about the coronavirus and the way he thinks the government should deal with it. Damian Giletto, The News Journal
WASHINGTON – Former Vice President Joe Biden and Sen. Bernie Sanders, the two top Democratic presidential candidates, on Thursday looked to spell out precisely what made them the best candidate to handle a world crisis like coronavirus.
In livestreamed speeches standing behind lecterns, both Biden and Sanders laid out how their administrations would tackle the growing pandemic.
Their remarks came less than 24 hours after President Donald Trump announced he was going to suspend travel from EU countries for non-U.S. citizens during the next 30 days to try to slow the spread of the coronavirus. His speech from the Oval Office Wednesday left aides scrambling to correct several points, and as of Thursday, there was no plan in place from lawmakers on Capitol Hill to move forward with.
“When I'm president, we will be better prepared, respond better and recover better,” Biden told reporters at a press conference in Delaware.
Sanders a few hours later echoed the sentiments of his Democratic counterpart.
“Now is the time for solidarity. Now is the time to come together with love and compassion for all, including the most vulnerable people in our society, who will face this pandemic,” Sanders told reporters at a press conference in Vermont. “Unfortunately, in this time of international crisis, it is clear to me at least, that we have an administration that is largely incompetent and whose incompetence and recklessness have threatened the lives of many, many people in our country.”
Is the U.S. prepared for a coronavirus pandemic? A previous version of this video incorrectly stated how many people the 1918 Spanish influenza killed. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
Response to Trump's coronavirus address: Another market plunge, airport chaos, anxious lawmakers
The plans outline key areas, such as the economy, lack of information on coronavirus and lack of resources in the health care industry, that the candidates believe the Trump administration has yet to address in a meaningful way.
In Biden’s plan, the former vice president says his administration would work to stop misinformation about coronavirus that has caused confusion and discrimination, increase testing for coronavirus and make the tests free, ensure hospitals can handle the surge of expected patients, expand paid family leave for those who get sick and offer economic relief for those who lose their job during this crisis.
Sanders offered similar points but said first that Trump should declare a national emergency. The Vermont senator also noted he would make sure the public and private sectors are working together to relay correct and accurate information to the public, including what symptoms to watch for, and make a vaccine or other effective treatment is free when it’s developed, and also offer economic assistance such as paid family and medical leave and unemployment assistance.
Live updates: Bernie Sanders lays out coronavirus plans, calls Trump's response 'largely incompetent'
New legislation aimed at helping Americans get through the coronavirus has yet to be passed by Congress. And following Trump's Wednesday night address, there was another day of massive losses on Wall Street and chaos at many airports as Americans hurried to catch flights back to the United States.
Nearly half surveyed in a new USA TODAY/Ipsos Poll said the new coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, posed a high level of threat to the stock market and to the global economy. Comparatively, just 15% said it was a high threat to them personally.
Both Sanders and Biden expressed hope amid the growing crisis.
“Now in the difficult days ahead, I know that this country will summon the spirit, the empathy, the decency and the unity needed,” Biden said. “Because in times of crisis the American people, always, always stand as one if told the truth.”
Sanders noted that while many are working from home, including him, Americans must not think that they are alone.
“If there ever was a time in the modern history of our country when we are all in this together, this is that moment,” Sanders said.


usatoday--2020-03-12--Bernie Sanders lays out coronavirus plans, calls Trump's response 'largely incompetent' - live updat

Bernie Sanders lays out coronavirus plans, calls Trump's response 'largely incompetent' - live updates

Refresh this page for the latest updates on coronavirus from Washington .
WASHINGTON – Sen. Bernie Sanders laid out a plan Thursday to combat the coronavirus pandemic , saying that the Trump Administration has been “ largely incompetent.
” “ In this time of international crisis , it is clear to me at least , that we have an administration that is largely incompetent and whose incompetence and recklessness have threatened the lives of many , many people in our country , ” Sanders said during remarks at Hotel Vermont in Burlington , Vermont .
Sanders outlined that as president @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus , work with health care officials to give updates , make treatments or vaccines free when they are developed , give economic relief to workers who have are sick and must stay home or workers who have been fired , as well as set up relief for service workers whose pay might be affected due to lack of tips .
“ It is an absolute moral imperative that our response as a government , as a society , as a business community , and as individual citizens , meet the enormity of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sanders ' remarks come a couple of hours after former Vice President Joe Biden , who is also seeking the Democratic nomination , announced his plan to combat the crisis .
Trump 's campaign criticized Sanders ' remarks , saying that he `` is the wrong prescription for fighting an outbreak like the coronavirus . ''
`` He ’ s just another Democrat candidate for president trying to score political points by recklessly provoking anxiety and fear , '' Trump 2020 communications director Tim Murtaugh said in a statement .
In a tweet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Senate will stay in session through next week , canceling its recess .
`` I am glad talks are ongoing between the Administration and ( House ) Speaker ( Nancy ) Pelosi .
I hope Congress can pass bipartisan legislation to continue combating the coronavirus and keep our economy strong , '' McConnell wrote .
Senators had urged each other to keep the chamber in session to address the coronavirus pandemic and reauthorize surveillance authority for counterterrorism investigations .
“ Our nation ’ s leaders must cast aside partisan politics and put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Congress needs to cancel its recess and stay in session so we can work together in a bipartisan fashion to address the coronavirus pandemic , ” Sen. Thom Tillis , R-N.C. , said .
Democrats also were open to halting the recess to get the coronavirus bill over the finish line .
“ The bottom line is the sooner we can get something done the better , ” said Minority Leader Chuck Schumer , D-N.Y. Biden releases coronavirus plan , says Trump is 'welcome to adopt all of it' Former Vice President Joe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus pandemic , one day after President Donald Trump announced a travel ban from Europe for the next 30 days to try to slow the spread of the coronavirus .
“ This disease could impact every nation under any person on the planet , ” Biden said during his remarks at Hotel Du Pont in Wilmington , Delaware .
“ We need a plan about how we ’ re going to aggressively manage it at home.
” Some aspects of Biden ’ s plan include making the coronavirus test more easily accessible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health care officials and economic relief for families who have been hit by coronavirus .
“ President Trump is welcome to adopt all of it today , ” Biden said of his plan .
He also criticized Trump ’ s travel suspension from Europe , adding that although it may slow , spread of the virus , “ it will not stop it.
” Trump ’ s campaign slammed Biden ’ s remarks , saying the president ’ s “ every move has been aimed at keeping Americans safe , while Joe Biden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ citizens ’ fears.
” Sen. Bernie Sanders is giving remarks later Thursday on the “ health and economic crisis ” in the United States .
Redfield agrees CDC will pay for costs of testing uninsured Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Robert 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 persistent questioning from Rep. Katie Porter , D-Calif. , during a House Oversight and Reform Committee hearing Thursday .
Porter asserted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ law .
Redfield initially told Porter said he was discussing the matter with HHS , but after further questions , 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 .
Trump : Markets will be 'just fine ' despite plunge President Donald Trump downplayed the latest plunge in stocks , saying Thursday that `` the markets are going to be just fine . ''
During a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Trump said he is considering declaring a national emergency on coronavirus and what steps he might take under it .
Trump said he has `` memorized practically '' the Stafford Act , which governs federal emergencies .
If coronavirus is declared an emergency , it would make it easier for the federal government to send money and other help to state and local governments to deal with it .
`` We have very strong emergency powers under the Stafford Act , '' Trump said .
`` I have it memorized practically as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And if I need to do something I 'll do it .
I have the right to do a lot of things that people do n't even know about . ''
Coronavirus : Pelosi pushes for swift passage of coronavirus bill despite Republican concerns The New York Stock Exchange halted trading temporarily Thursday after a 7 % decline .
The loss came a day after Trump announced travel restrictions to Europe and a package of economic proposals to cope with the virus in the USA .
Trump opened the Oval Office meeting , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , saying France and Germany are having difficulties , and Italy has `` probably record-setting '' problems .
Wednesday , Trump and Varadkar each gave speeches to their own countries about dealing with the pandemic of coronavirus .
Trump announced a 30-day suspension in travel from Europe – other than the United Kingdom – to the USA .
Travel groups said 850,000 people traveled from those countries to the USA in March 2019 and spent $ 3.4 billion .
Trump said he had to move `` quickly '' on the travel restrictions , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaders .
He said the United Kingdom was excluded because it 's doing a good job of containing the virus .
`` We had to make a decision , and we did n't want to take time , '' Trump said .

David Jackson, Bart Jansen and Courtney Subramanian, USA TODAY

Pelosi: House could vote on bipartisan coronavirus economic rescue package Friday – live updates
Show Caption Hide Caption Is the U.S. prepared for a coronavirus pandemic? A previous version of this video incorrectly stated how many people the 1918 Spanish influenza killed. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
Refresh this page for the latest updates on coronavirus from Washington.
WASHINGTON – House Speaker Nancy Pelosi unveiled details Thursday of a bipartisan deal she has been negotiating with Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin and Republican lawmakers.
The package would provide free testing, paid emergency leave and increased unemployment coverage, she said. She's expected to bring it to the House floor Friday.
The latest legislation would come on top of an $8.3 billion package of emergency funding that Congress has already passed to fund research for vaccines and provide money for preparedness and response. Pelosi said lawmakers and the Trump administration will also be negotiating further steps.
“Time is of the essence, and this bill must be passed and sent to the Senate,” Pelosi said. “The House will then get to work on a third emergency response package that will take further effective action that protects the health, economic security and well-being of the American people.”
The measure the House is expected to take up Friday would:
Provide free testing “for everyone who needs a test, including the uninsured." One caveat: There’s been a tremendous shortage of test kits available so access could still be a big issue.
Set aside up to 14 days of paid sick leave and up to three months of paid family and medical leave for workers affected by the coronavirus contamination.
Expand unemployment benefits to workers sent home due to the crisis.
Ensure availability of food assistance such as SNAP, student meals, seniors’ nutrition and food banks. Democrats were able to place a temporary hold on work requirements under SNAP during the public health crisis.
Provide federal Medicaid funds to help states defray costs associated with the crisis.
Some Republicans on Capitol Hill have raised concerns about Democratic proposals to expand government programs and require paid leave, saying that could put new burdens on businesses.
– Ledyard King
Deal could reassure reeling markets
A deal is close on an economic stimulus bill aimed at helping workers across the U.S. and countering the impact of the coronavirus on the markets, which on Thursday saw its worst day since 1987.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told reporters outside her office Thursday evening that after all-day talks with Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, no deal had been reached but one was close, adding that “we hope to have an announcement tomorrow.”
Pelosi, standing alongside House Ways and Means Chairman Richard Neal, said the deal was “subject to paper” and that both sides have “resolved most of our differences” and the remaining issues can be settled in future bills to counter the effects of the virus on everyday life for Americans.
The legislation could serve as a reassuring message to the markets, which saw steep losses on Thursday that deepened worries about a possible recession due to the rapidly spreading virus.
“That was very shocking,” Pelosi said of the markets. “I'm not going to go into that because what we're trying to do is be a positive” force.
Neal and Pelosi said the package will help be a stimuli to the economy and offer some confidence. “We all acknowledge that we have an economic downturn that’s going to increase spending, and we've made that public investment as it relates to public health is issue No. 1,” Neal said.
– Christal Hayes
Pelosi, Trump aides work into the night on coronavirus rescue plan
After talks that spanned a day when schools closed in several states, sporting events were canceled and financial markets saw their worst day since 1987, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin were working into the night Thursday to find common ground on a measure to stem the economic damage from the coronavirus.
Democrats want to vote on legislation to offer paid sick leave for workers, additional food assistance, free coronavirus testing and bolstered unemployment insurance among the provisions. But the proposal has been met with skepticism from President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans who raised concerns about some of the provisions and the costs incurred by businesses to implement some of the policies.
After at least seven phone calls between Pelosi and Mnuchin, a deal appeared closer. One hurdle that appears to have been crossed was Republican opposition to sick leave because of the costs to businesses that implement a mandatory leave due to the coronavirus. A aide familiar with the discussions said Democrats were able to keep in paid sick leave by offering additional tax credits that will help small and medium-sized businesses pay for the policy. If a deal is struck, the House could vote to approve the bill as early as Thursday night.
Getting the deal across the finish line remains a top priority for Congress as the virus continues to deepen its impact on every way of life across the globe. Amid pressure on lawmakers to act, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell canceled the Senate's planned recess break next week and will instead work on getting this legislation passed into law.
– Christal Hayes
AOC makes Fox News debut to confront 'misinformation' on coronavirus response
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., made her Fox News debut to discuss the coronavirus outbreak on Thursday.
“I usually don’t go on FOX on principle, but misinformation about coronavirus has made me concerned about risk,” she tweeted. “As a result I decided to go on Bret Baier to discuss coronavirus response + make the case for paid leave, Medicaid, etc”
Hey all, wanted to drop a📝 for accountability.
I usually don’t go on FOX on principle, but misinformation about coronavirus has made me concerned about risk.
As a result I decided to go on @BretBaier to discuss coronavirus response + make the case for paid leave, Medicaid, etc — Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) March 12, 2020
While discussing the outbreak, the freshman congresswoman blasted the Trump administration for its handling of the outbreak, especially for the lack of tests available, comparing the United States to countries like South Korea ().
“Here, people are scrambling. It almost seems like the more wealthy and powerful you are, the more able you are to access a test,” Ocasio-Cortez said. “The rougher road you’ve got here, it’s going to be a lot more difficult for you to access health care. That’s exactly the recipe for disaster.”
Drive-thru coronavirus testing facilities open in South Korea People can get tested for coronavirus without ever leaving their cars in South Korea. USA TODAY, Wochit
She seemed to be referencing some officials who have been able to access tests even though they have said they were not showing any symptoms.
One Democratic congressman who has been self-quarantined pushed back on the Trump administration's claim that "Frankly, the testing has been going very smooth."
Rep. Don Beyer, D-Va., tweeted in response, “I can assure you that this is not true.”
– Savannah Behrmann
Bernie Sanders urges national emergency for coronavirus
Sen. Bernie Sanders laid out a plan Thursday to combat the coronavirus pandemic, saying that the Trump Administration has been “largely incompetent.”
“In this time of international crisis, it is clear to me at least, that we have an administration that is largely incompetent and whose incompetence and recklessness have threatened the lives of many, many people in our country,” Sanders said during remarks at Hotel Vermont in Burlington, Vermont.
Sanders outlined that as president he would declare a national emergency for coronavirus, work with health care officials to give updates, make treatments or vaccines free when they are developed, give economic relief to workers who have are sick and must stay home or workers who have been fired, as well as set up relief for service workers whose pay might be affected due to lack of tips.
“It is an absolute moral imperative that our response as a government, as a society, as a business community, and as individual citizens, meet the enormity of this crisis,” he said.
Sanders' remarks come a couple of hours after former Vice President Joe Biden, who is also seeking the Democratic nomination, announced his plan to combat the crisis.
Trump's campaign criticized Sanders' remarks, saying that he "is the wrong prescription for fighting an outbreak like the coronavirus."
"He’s just another Democrat candidate for president trying to score political points by recklessly provoking anxiety and fear," Trump 2020 communications director Tim Murtaugh said in a statement.
– Rebecca Morin
Senate cancels recess amid coronavirus negotiations
In a tweet, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell announced the Senate will stay in session through next week, canceling its recess.
"I am glad talks are ongoing between the Administration and (House) Speaker (Nancy) Pelosi. I hope Congress can pass bipartisan legislation to continue combating the coronavirus and keep our economy strong," McConnell wrote.
Senators had urged each other to keep the chamber in session to address the coronavirus pandemic and reauthorize surveillance authority for counterterrorism investigations.
“Our nation’s leaders must cast aside partisan politics and put the health of our country first. Congress needs to cancel its recess and stay in session so we can work together in a bipartisan fashion to address the coronavirus pandemic,” Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., said.
Democrats also were open to halting the recess to get the coronavirus bill over the finish line.
“The bottom line is the sooner we can get something done the better,” said Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.
– Nicholas Wu and Christal Hayes
Biden releases coronavirus plan, says Trump is 'welcome to adopt all of it'
Former Vice President Joe Biden introduced a plan Thursday to combat the coronavirus pandemic, one day after President Donald Trump announced a travel ban from Europe for the next 30 days to try to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
“This disease could impact every nation under any person on the planet,” Biden said during his remarks at Hotel Du Pont in Wilmington, Delaware. “We need a plan about how we’re going to aggressively manage it at home.”
Some aspects of Biden’s plan include making the coronavirus test more easily accessible, frequent updates about the pandemic from health care officials and economic relief for families who have been hit by coronavirus.
“President Trump is welcome to adopt all of it today,” Biden said of his plan. He also criticized Trump’s travel suspension from Europe, adding that although it may slow, spread of the virus, “it will not stop it.”
Trump’s campaign slammed Biden’s remarks, saying the president’s “every move has been aimed at keeping Americans safe, while Joe Biden has sought to capitalize politically and stoke citizens’ fears.”
Sen. Bernie Sanders is giving remarks later Thursday on the “health and economic crisis” in the United States.
– Rebecca Morin
Redfield agrees CDC will pay for costs of testing uninsured
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Robert 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 persistent questioning from Rep. Katie Porter, D-Calif., during a House Oversight and Reform Committee hearing Thursday.
Porter asserted that Redfield has such authority under federal law. Redfield initially told Porter said he was discussing the matter with HHS, but after further questions, 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.
– William Cummings
Trump: Markets will be 'just fine' despite plunge
President Donald Trump downplayed the latest plunge in stocks, saying Thursday that "the markets are going to be just fine."
During a meeting with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, Trump said he is considering declaring a national emergency on coronavirus and what steps he might take under it.
Trump said he has "memorized practically" the Stafford Act, which governs federal emergencies. If coronavirus is declared an emergency, it would make it easier for the federal government to send money and other help to state and local governments to deal with it.
"We have very strong emergency powers under the Stafford Act," Trump said. "I have it memorized practically as to the powers in that act. And if I need to do something I'll do it. I have the right to do a lot of things that people don't even know about."
Coronavirus: Pelosi pushes for swift passage of coronavirus bill despite Republican concerns
The New York Stock Exchange halted trading temporarily Thursday after a 7% decline. The loss came a day after Trump announced travel restrictions to Europe and a package of economic proposals to cope with the virus in the USA.
Trump opened the Oval Office meeting, which began without the customary ceremonial handshake, saying France and Germany are having difficulties, and Italy has "probably record-setting" problems.
Wednesday, Trump and Varadkar each gave speeches to their own countries about dealing with the pandemic of coronavirus.
Trump announced a 30-day suspension in travel from Europe – other than the United Kingdom – to the USA. Travel groups said 850,000 people traveled from those countries to the USA in March 2019 and spent $3.4 billion.
European travel ban: EU leaders slam Trump's sweeping coronavirus travel ban
Trump said he had to move "quickly" on the travel restrictions, which he said prevented consultations with European leaders. He said the United Kingdom was excluded because it's doing a good job of containing the virus.
"We had to make a decision, and we didn't want to take time," Trump said.
Contributing: Deirdre Shesgreen and Ledyard King


usatoday--2020-03-12--House approves measure to limit President Trump's war powers against Iran; veto expected

WASHINGTON – The House approved a resolution Wednesday that would bar President Donald Trump from launching a military attack against Iran without explicit congressional authorization .
The measure now goes to the White House , where Trump is expected to veto it .
The president has said it would undermine U.S. security and `` show weakness . ''
Supporters concede they do not have the two-thirds supermajority needed to override a veto .
But Wednesday 's 227-to-186 vote still marked a rare bipartisan effort to curb Trump 's war powers and underscored lawmakers ' lingering concerns that U.S. tensions with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Six Republicans joined 220 Democrats in supporting the war powers resolution .
The measure cleared the Senate last month with eight Republicans and all Democrats voting yes .
`` The American people do n't want war with Iran .
The Congress has not authorized war with Iran .
That should be crystal clear , '' Rep. Eliot Engel , chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee , said during the House debate .
Engel , D-N.Y. , and other Democrats said Trump brought the United States to the brink of war with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ targeting Tehran ’ s most powerful military leader , Gen. Qasem Soleimani , on Jan. 2 .
Iran responded by launching ballistic missiles at an Iraqi air base housing American troops , which left more than 100 service members with traumatic brain injuries .
`` This is n't deterrence , '' Engel said , noting that Iran has also increased its uranium enrichment stockpile .
`` We 're now closer to a war with a country that 's closer to possessing a nuclear weapon . ''
The Trump administration and its Republican allies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ undermine Trump 's ability to respond to Iranian aggression .
`` This political war powers resolution is based on a false premise , '' said Rep. Michael McCaul , the top GOP lawmaker on the Foreign Affairs Committee .
He said Trump has shown `` remarkable restraint '' in using military force and has made it clear he does n't want war with Iran .
`` Iran and its proxies are watching right now as we spin our wheels , '' McCaul said .
`` And what they see ... ( is ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support the ability of our commander in chief to adequately respond to threats against Americans . ''
The White House has blasted the war powers measure as `` untimely and misguided . ''
In a statement threatening a veto , the White House said the U.S. `` is not currently engaged in any use of force against Iran , in part because of the sound policies and decisive , effective actions of this administration . ''
The chief author of the resolution , Sen. Tim Kaine , a Virginia Democrat , hailed Wednesday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of congressional authority on matters of war .
“ For years , Congress has abdicated its responsibility on matters of war , but now a bipartisan majority in both the Senate and House has made clear that we shouldn ’ t be engaged in hostilities with Iran without a vote of Congress , '' Kaine said .
He said his legislation doesn ’ t prevent Trump from defending America against imminent attack .
`` Rather , the resolution demands that the decision of whether or not we go on offense and send our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only be made after serious deliberation and a vote of Congress , '' he said .
`` If President Trump is serious about his promise to stop endless wars , he will sign this resolution into law .
”

House approves measure to limit President Trump's war powers against Iran; veto expected
Show Caption Hide Caption Senate acts to restrain Trump's powers against Iran A bipartisan Senate majority voted to pass a resolution Thursday limiting President Donald Trump from ordering future strikes against Iran without first seeking Congress' explicit permission. (Feb. 13) AP
WASHINGTON – The House approved a resolution Wednesday that would bar President Donald Trump from launching a military attack against Iran without explicit congressional authorization.
The measure now goes to the White House, where Trump is expected to veto it. The president has said it would undermine U.S. security and "show weakness."
Supporters concede they do not have the two-thirds supermajority needed to override a veto.
But Wednesday's 227-to-186 vote still marked a rare bipartisan effort to curb Trump's war powers and underscored lawmakers' lingering concerns that U.S. tensions with Iran could escalate into a full-fledged war. Six Republicans joined 220 Democrats in supporting the war powers resolution. The measure cleared the Senate last month with eight Republicans and all Democrats voting yes.
"The American people don't want war with Iran. The Congress has not authorized war with Iran. That should be crystal clear," Rep. Eliot Engel, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said during the House debate.
Engel, D-N.Y., and other Democrats said Trump brought the United States to the brink of war with Iran when he green-lighted a deadly strike targeting Tehran’s most powerful military leader, Gen. Qasem Soleimani, on Jan. 2. Iran responded by launching ballistic missiles at an Iraqi air base housing American troops, which left more than 100 service members with traumatic brain injuries.
"This isn't deterrence," Engel said, noting that Iran has also increased its uranium enrichment stockpile. "We're now closer to a war with a country that's closer to possessing a nuclear weapon."
Fact check: Trump talks the escalation of tensions with Iran in speech President Donald Trump spoke after Iran launched missiles on bases in Iraq where American troops are stationed. USA Today fact-checked his assertions. USA TODAY
The Trump administration and its Republican allies said the measure was unnecessary and would undermine Trump's ability to respond to Iranian aggression.
"This political war powers resolution is based on a false premise," said Rep. Michael McCaul, the top GOP lawmaker on the Foreign Affairs Committee.
He said Trump has shown "remarkable restraint" in using military force and has made it clear he doesn't want war with Iran.
"Iran and its proxies are watching right now as we spin our wheels," McCaul said. "And what they see ... (is) a divided America that does not fully support the ability of our commander in chief to adequately respond to threats against Americans."
The White House has blasted the war powers measure as "untimely and misguided."
In a statement threatening a veto, the White House said the U.S. "is not currently engaged in any use of force against Iran, in part because of the sound policies and decisive, effective actions of this administration."
The chief author of the resolution, Sen. Tim Kaine, a Virginia Democrat, hailed Wednesday's vote as a long overdue assertion of congressional authority on matters of war.
“For years, Congress has abdicated its responsibility on matters of war, but now a bipartisan majority in both the Senate and House has made clear that we shouldn’t be engaged in hostilities with Iran without a vote of Congress," Kaine said. He said his legislation doesn’t prevent Trump from defending America against imminent attack.
"Rather, the resolution demands that the decision of whether or not we go on offense and send our troops into harm’s way should only be made after serious deliberation and a vote of Congress," he said. "If President Trump is serious about his promise to stop endless wars, he will sign this resolution into law.”


usatoday--2020-03-12--Authorities tighten public access to White House, Supreme Court, US Capitol amid coronavirus fears

WASHINGTON – The White House and the U.S. Capitol wo n't hold tours – and the Supreme Court is closed to the public – as lawmakers and President Donald Trump attempt to combat the spread of the coronavirus that has killed dozens in the United States .
The House and Senate Sergeant at Arms announced Thursday morning the Capitol Visitor Center would be closed to tours “ out of concern for the health and safety of congressional employees and the public ” amid broader fears about the spread of the coronavirus .
It would only be open to staff , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and lasting until April 1 .
On Thursday morning , the White House issued a statement saying `` Out of an abundance of caution and until further notice , White House tours have been canceled . ''
The Supreme Court building will close to the public starting Thursday afternoon until further notice , but will remain open for official business .
The move comes after House and Senate leadership tried to offer a calm and steady hand in dealing with wary lawmakers , many of whom are older and thus more susceptible to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to take the drastic step out of concerns it could escalate fears about the virus worldwide .
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi shot down calls for a possible recess or having lawmakers work remotely , telling members of her caucus : “ We are the captains of the ship , '' according to two Democratic sources .
`` We are the last to leave . ''
Lawmakers have not announced any changes to their work in the Capitol or their planned calendar .
They are still scheduled to work this week in the Capitol @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recess break .
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has advised people over 60 and those with underlying health problems to avoid large crowds .
The average age in the Senate is 63 ; in the House , it 's 58 .
Washington 's local government declared a state of emergency and a public health emergency on Wednesday , advising that `` non-essential mass gatherings , '' defined as groups of over 1,000 people , be canceled or postponed Earlier Wednesday , lawmakers expressed concerns about the continuation of tours through the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3 million to 5 million visitors each year , according to estimates from the Architect of the Capitol .
More : 'Like preparing for a hurricane ' : Lawmakers worry about coronavirus hitting them while helping manage response 'Abundance of caution ' : Several lawmakers self-quarantine out of fear of contact with coronavirus House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer , D-Md.
, said lawmakers are relying on advice each day from health officials about their schedules .
Some lawmakers in recent days were calling for a recess or some possible accommodations to prevent themselves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ voting off-site is something we won ’ t pursue .
”

Nicholas Wu and Christal Hayes, USA TODAY

Authorities tighten public access to White House, Supreme Court, US Capitol amid coronavirus fears
Show Caption Hide Caption Coronavirus now pandemic as number of cases surpass 100,000 The coronavirus is now characterized as a pandemic as the WHO director general announces more than 100,000 cases in over 100 countries. Associated Press, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – The White House and the U.S. Capitol won't hold tours – and the Supreme Court is closed to the public – as lawmakers and President Donald Trump attempt to combat the spread of the coronavirus that has killed dozens in the United States.
The House and Senate Sergeant at Arms announced Thursday morning the Capitol Visitor Center would be closed to tours “out of concern for the health and safety of congressional employees and the public” amid broader fears about the spread of the coronavirus. It would only be open to staff, official business and credentialed press starting Thursday and lasting until April 1.
On Thursday morning, the White House issued a statement saying "Out of an abundance of caution and until further notice, White House tours have been canceled."
The Supreme Court building will close to the public starting Thursday afternoon until further notice, but will remain open for official business.
The move comes after House and Senate leadership tried to offer a calm and steady hand in dealing with wary lawmakers, many of whom are older and thus more susceptible to contracting the virus. They had hesitated to take the drastic step out of concerns it could escalate fears about the virus worldwide.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi shot down calls for a possible recess or having lawmakers work remotely, telling members of her caucus: “We are the captains of the ship," according to two Democratic sources. "We are the last to leave."
Lawmakers have not announced any changes to their work in the Capitol or their planned calendar. They are still scheduled to work this week in the Capitol and go home next week for a recess break.
Your ultimate guide to proper hand-washing When people ask how to protect themselves against the spread of COVID-19, one of the first suggestions from doctors is washing your hands. Here are the do's and don'ts. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has advised people over 60 and those with underlying health problems to avoid large crowds. The average age in the Senate is 63; in the House, it's 58.
Washington's local government declared a state of emergency and a public health emergency on Wednesday, advising that "non-essential mass gatherings," defined as groups of over 1,000 people, be canceled or postponed
Earlier Wednesday, lawmakers expressed concerns about the continuation of tours through the Capitol complex, which hosts an estimated 3 million to 5 million visitors each year, according to estimates from the Architect of the Capitol.
More: 'Like preparing for a hurricane': Lawmakers worry about coronavirus hitting them while helping manage response
'Abundance of caution': Several lawmakers self-quarantine out of fear of contact with coronavirus
House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md., said lawmakers are relying on advice each day from health officials about their schedules. Some lawmakers in recent days were calling for a recess or some possible accommodations to prevent themselves from contracting the virus. Hoyer said “voting off-site is something we won’t pursue.”
We should take this step.
Not doing so is putting health and safety of these tourists at risk. https://t.co/QlM6FVUwRx — Liz Cheney (@Liz_Cheney) March 11, 2020


usatoday--2020-03-12--Mike Pence says 'thousands' more Americans will get coronavirus

WASHINGTON – Thousands more Americans will become infected with coronavirus , Vice President Mike Pence said Thursday in a round of media interviews in which he `` settled '' the question of whether the virus is more lethal than the seasonal flu .
Pence also acknowledged that congressional leaders have pressed the administration on why the United States didn ’ t use a coronavirus test kit developed by the World Health Organization .
Officials have previously admitted that testing by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention got off to a “ slow start.
” The vice president said that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Anthony Fauci , director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases , briefed congressional leaders before President Donald Trump ’ s address to the nation Wednesday night .
Fauci told lawmakers it ’ s standard practice to develop its own tests instead of relying on the WHO , Pence said .
“ We ’ re the world leader in infectious diseases , ” Pence told NBC .
“ Our CDC and our FDA produce and approve tests through our incredible health care system.
” Soon after the tests were shipped in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a flaw that prevented them from confirming test results .
That delayed rapid testing among state and local labs , just as the deadly respiratory virus gained a foothold among infected travelers returning to the United States .
Pence was asked whether he agreed with the assessment of the Capitol Hill physician whoreportedly , according to Axios , told aides this week that he expects roughly a third of the country to contract the virus .
Pence said there will be “ thousands ” more cases of coronavirus in the country while declining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'll leave it to the experts to make the estimates of how many people may be infected , ” Pence told NBC .
“ We ’ re trying to hold that number down as much as possible.
” Fauci told a House oversight committee Wednesday that the number could reach “ many , many millions ” if “ we are complacent and don ’ t do really aggressive containment and mitigation.
” During Trump ’ s visit to the Senate Tuesday to meet with Republican lawmakers , he told reporters that the virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ calm .
It 's really working out .
And a lot of good things are going to happen , ” Trump said .
The president has previously said the mortality rate for the flu is “ much higher than ” for coronavirus .
Asked to “ settle ” the question of whether the virus is more lethal than the seasonal flu , Pence responded : “ It is.
” Fauci said on Wednesday that coronavirus is `` 10 times more lethal than the seasonal flu . ''
Pence 's series of television interviews @ @ @ @ @ @ @ address to the nation Wednesday in which he announced the U.S. is suspending travel from parts of Europe for 30 days .
Minutes after speaking , Trump had to clean up his remarks , clarifying that he was not proposing a ban on cargo from Europe .
Pence was asked on CNN why there was confusion .
He added to Trump ’ s announcement that the United States will be asking every American and legal resident who returns from Europe over the next 30 days to self quarantine for 14 days .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ website where every state and territory can record the number of coronavirus tests conducted , he also said .
He ’ d been asked about the fact that testing figures reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate the number of tests have gone down since March 5 .
“ I don ’ t believe they are , ” Pence said .
“ I ’ m not saying they ’ re wrong .
I ’ m saying that they may not be complete because we don ’ t necessarily collect today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all the tests that are being done.
” While people across the country continue to report difficulty in getting tested , Pence said he ’ s confident that commercial labs will be able to produce and distribute tests “ on a wide range across the country in the days ahead.
” Stimulus bill : Pelosi pushing for swift passage of coronavirus bill despite Republican concerns What it means : Coronavirus has been declared a pandemic

Mike Pence says 'thousands' more Americans will get coronavirus
Show Caption Hide Caption Is the U.S. prepared for a coronavirus pandemic? A previous version of this video incorrectly stated how many people the 1918 Spanish influenza killed. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – Thousands more Americans will become infected with coronavirus, Vice President Mike Pence said Thursday in a round of media interviews in which he "settled" the question of whether the virus is more lethal than the seasonal flu.
Pence also acknowledged that congressional leaders have pressed the administration on why the United States didn’t use a coronavirus test kit developed by the World Health Organization. Officials have previously admitted that testing by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention got off to a “slow start.”
“It’s a fair question,” Pence told NBC’s “Today” show.
The vice president said that issue came up when he and Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, briefed congressional leaders before President Donald Trump’s address to the nation Wednesday night.
Fauci told lawmakers it’s standard practice to develop its own tests instead of relying on the WHO, Pence said.
“We’re the world leader in infectious diseases,” Pence told NBC. “Our CDC and our FDA produce and approve tests through our incredible health care system.”
Soon after the tests were shipped in early February, however, states discovered a flaw that prevented them from confirming test results. That delayed rapid testing among state and local labs, just as the deadly respiratory virus gained a foothold among infected travelers returning to the United States.
Pence was asked whether he agreed with the assessment of the Capitol Hill physician who reportedly, according to Axios, told aides this week that he expects roughly a third of the country to contract the virus.
Pence said there will be “thousands” more cases of coronavirus in the country while declining to be more specific.
“I'll leave it to the experts to make the estimates of how many people may be infected,” Pence told NBC. “We’re trying to hold that number down as much as possible.”
Fauci told a House oversight committee Wednesday that the number could reach “many, many millions” if “we are complacent and don’t do really aggressive containment and mitigation.”
During Trump’s visit to the Senate Tuesday to meet with Republican lawmakers, he told reporters that the virus “will go away.”
"Be calm. It's really working out. And a lot of good things are going to happen,” Trump said.
The president has previously said the mortality rate for the flu is “much higher than” for coronavirus.
Asked to “settle” the question of whether the virus is more lethal than the seasonal flu, Pence responded: “It is.” Fauci said on Wednesday that coronavirus is "10 times more lethal than the seasonal flu."
Pence's series of television interviews Thursday following Trump’s Oval Office address to the nation Wednesday in which he announced the U.S. is suspending travel from parts of Europe for 30 days.
Minutes after speaking, Trump had to clean up his remarks, clarifying that he was not proposing a ban on cargo from Europe.
Pence was asked on CNN why there was confusion.
“I don’t think there’s confusion,” Pence responded.
Travel restrictions: Trump clarifies comments on Europe travel
He added to Trump’s announcement that the United States will be asking every American and legal resident who returns from Europe over the next 30 days to self quarantine for 14 days.
The administration is working on a central reporting website where every state and territory can record the number of coronavirus tests conducted, he also said.
He’d been asked about the fact that testing figures reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate the number of tests have gone down since March 5.
“I don’t believe they are,” Pence said. “I’m not saying they’re wrong. I’m saying that they may not be complete because we don’t necessarily collect today all the information from state laboratories about all the tests that are being done.”
While people across the country continue to report difficulty in getting tested, Pence said he’s confident that commercial labs will be able to produce and distribute tests “on a wide range across the country in the days ahead.”
“We’re making great progress,” he said.
Stimulus bill: Pelosi pushing for swift passage of coronavirus bill despite Republican concerns
What it means: Coronavirus has been declared a pandemic


usatoday--2020-03-12--Presidential debate moved to Washington, D.C., from Phoenix as coronavirus precaution

PHOENIX – Coronavirus fears have prompted organizers of the Democratic debate in Phoenix to cancel the planned head-to-head event in Arizona , and will instead hold it at a studio in Washington , D.C. , CNN and the Democratic National Committee announced Thursday .
`` Out of an abundance of caution and in order to reduce cross-country travel , all parties have decided that the best path forward is to hold Sunday 's debate at CNN 's studio in Washington , D.C. , with no live audience , '' DNC communications director Xochitl Hinojosa said in a statement .
CNN @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , one of the original debate moderators , was potentially exposed to coronavirus but is not showing any symptoms .
He will not moderate the debate , said the DNC .
Instead , the network 's Ilia Calderón will take his place , alongside CNN 's Dana Bash and Jake Tapper .
The debate is still set to take place 8 to 10 p.m .
ET Sunday .
More : President Trump met with Brazil official at Mar-a-Lago who has now tested positive for coronavirus : reports Local and national organizers initially selected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ importance as a presidential battleground and the efforts by Democrats to build on momentum they saw during the 2018 cycle , where Democrats won four statewide seats .
Sen. Kyrsten Sinema became the first Democrat in 30 years to win a Senate seat .
But the event was dramatically scaled back earlier this week because of the new coronavirus outbreak , which prompted President Donald Trump on Wednesday night to announce sweeping travel restrictions on 26 European countries in an effort to stop the spread of the virus .
Earlier this week , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sanders , I-Vt. , and former Vice President Joe Biden , organizers scrapped plans for a live audience at the debate .
The debate was scheduled to take place at the Arizona Federal Theatre , the downtown Phoenix venue long known as Comerica Theatre .
More : Pelosi pushing for swift passage of coronavirus bill despite Republican concerns Organizers also halted plans for a debate spin room and press filing center .
The Phoenix debate was sponsored by CNN and Univision and in partnership with CHC Bold , the political arm of the @ @ @ @

Yvonne Wingett Sanchez, Arizona Republic

Presidential debate moved to Washington, D.C., from Phoenix as coronavirus precaution
Show Caption Hide Caption Coronavirus now pandemic as number of cases surpass 100,000 The coronavirus is now characterized as a pandemic as the WHO director general announces more than 100,000 cases in over 100 countries. Associated Press, USA TODAY
PHOENIX – Coronavirus fears have prompted organizers of the Democratic debate in Phoenix to cancel the planned head-to-head event in Arizona, and will instead hold it at a studio in Washington, D.C., CNN and the Democratic National Committee announced Thursday.
"Out of an abundance of caution and in order to reduce cross-country travel, all parties have decided that the best path forward is to hold Sunday's debate at CNN's studio in Washington, D.C., with no live audience," DNC communications director Xochitl Hinojosa said in a statement.
CNN also reported that Univision's Jorge Ramos, one of the original debate moderators, was potentially exposed to coronavirus but is not showing any symptoms. He will not moderate the debate, said the DNC. Instead, the network's Ilia Calderón will take his place, alongside CNN's Dana Bash and Jake Tapper. The debate is still set to take place 8 to 10 p.m. ET Sunday.
More: President Trump met with Brazil official at Mar-a-Lago who has now tested positive for coronavirus: reports
Is the U.S. prepared for a coronavirus pandemic? A previous version of this video incorrectly stated how many people the 1918 Spanish influenza killed. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
Local and national organizers initially selected Phoenix to underscore the state’s importance as a presidential battleground and the efforts by Democrats to build on momentum they saw during the 2018 cycle, where Democrats won four statewide seats. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema became the first Democrat in 30 years to win a Senate seat.
But the event was dramatically scaled back earlier this week because of the new coronavirus outbreak, which prompted President Donald Trump on Wednesday night to announce sweeping travel restrictions on 26 European countries in an effort to stop the spread of the virus.
Earlier this week, at the request of candidates Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and former Vice President Joe Biden, organizers scrapped plans for a live audience at the debate. The debate was scheduled to take place at the Arizona Federal Theatre, the downtown Phoenix venue long known as Comerica Theatre.
More: Pelosi pushing for swift passage of coronavirus bill despite Republican concerns
Organizers also halted plans for a debate spin room and press filing center.
The Phoenix debate was sponsored by CNN and Univision and in partnership with CHC Bold, the political arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.