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White House Embraces Optimism as Death Toll Passes 60,000 White House Embraces Optimism as Death Toll Passes 60,000
(7 days later)
This briefing has ended. Follow our latest coverage of the coronavirus pandemic.This briefing has ended. Follow our latest coverage of the coronavirus pandemic.
With more than a million coronavirus cases reported in the United States and more than 26 million people out of work, the hunger for good news was so strong on Wednesday that reports that a possible treatment for the coronavirus showed early signs of promise helped rally the stock market.With more than a million coronavirus cases reported in the United States and more than 26 million people out of work, the hunger for good news was so strong on Wednesday that reports that a possible treatment for the coronavirus showed early signs of promise helped rally the stock market.
The early results of a federal trial showing that treatment with remdesivir, an experimental antiviral drug, can speed recovery in infected patients were heralded as “very optimistic” at the White House by Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. That helped the S&P 500 gain nearly 3 percent on a day the Commerce Department reported the worst quarterly contraction in the nation’s gross domestic product since 2008, during the Great Recession.The early results of a federal trial showing that treatment with remdesivir, an experimental antiviral drug, can speed recovery in infected patients were heralded as “very optimistic” at the White House by Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. That helped the S&P 500 gain nearly 3 percent on a day the Commerce Department reported the worst quarterly contraction in the nation’s gross domestic product since 2008, during the Great Recession.
President Trump and his advisers similarly embraced optimism as a theme in a week when the nation surpassed 60,000 deaths from the virus. As states begin to lift quarantines, the White House has continued to offer a revisionist history of the pandemic in which the actions of Mr. Trump and his team were not belated and inadequate, but bold and effective.President Trump and his advisers similarly embraced optimism as a theme in a week when the nation surpassed 60,000 deaths from the virus. As states begin to lift quarantines, the White House has continued to offer a revisionist history of the pandemic in which the actions of Mr. Trump and his team were not belated and inadequate, but bold and effective.
“The federal government rose to the challenge, and this is a great success story,” Jared Kushner, the president’s son-in-law, said on “Fox & Friends.” “And I think that that’s really, you know, what needs to be told.”“The federal government rose to the challenge, and this is a great success story,” Jared Kushner, the president’s son-in-law, said on “Fox & Friends.” “And I think that that’s really, you know, what needs to be told.”
At a televised meeting at the White House with business leaders on Wednesday afternoon, the president went further, talking of seeing “the light at the end of the tunnel very strongly.” He waxed at length about restoring life to the United States as if the crisis were nearly over. He disclosed that he planned to fly to Arizona next week and soon after that to Ohio. He talked wistfully of going to football games and resuming his campaign rallies. “I’d like to get out,” he said.At a televised meeting at the White House with business leaders on Wednesday afternoon, the president went further, talking of seeing “the light at the end of the tunnel very strongly.” He waxed at length about restoring life to the United States as if the crisis were nearly over. He disclosed that he planned to fly to Arizona next week and soon after that to Ohio. He talked wistfully of going to football games and resuming his campaign rallies. “I’d like to get out,” he said.
The strong desire to let businesses reopen has been complicated by the nation’s inability to conduct the amount of testing that public health officials say will be needed to identify, trace and contain new outbreaks as social distancing rules are eased.The strong desire to let businesses reopen has been complicated by the nation’s inability to conduct the amount of testing that public health officials say will be needed to identify, trace and contain new outbreaks as social distancing rules are eased.
Earlier on Wednesday, Mr. Trump joined Dr. Fauci in hailing the early results of the federal trial of remdesivir, holding out hope that the drug could help very ill patients recover more quickly.Earlier on Wednesday, Mr. Trump joined Dr. Fauci in hailing the early results of the federal trial of remdesivir, holding out hope that the drug could help very ill patients recover more quickly.
“It is a very important proof of concept, because what it has proved is that a drug can block this virus,” Dr. Fauci said. “This is very optimistic.” Dr. Fauci cautioned that the results of the study still needed to be properly peer reviewed.“It is a very important proof of concept, because what it has proved is that a drug can block this virus,” Dr. Fauci said. “This is very optimistic.” Dr. Fauci cautioned that the results of the study still needed to be properly peer reviewed.
President Trump wants a crash program to develop a vaccine for the coronavirus, an undertaking viewed with some skepticism even inside the administration.President Trump wants a crash program to develop a vaccine for the coronavirus, an undertaking viewed with some skepticism even inside the administration.
The idea would be to accelerate the process to create, test and mass-produce a vaccine — which doctors have repeatedly said would take a minimum of a year to 18 months — so that hundreds of millions of doses could be ready by the end of the year. Public health experts have warned that rushing the process could undermine the treatment’s effectiveness, and even lead to sickness or death.The idea would be to accelerate the process to create, test and mass-produce a vaccine — which doctors have repeatedly said would take a minimum of a year to 18 months — so that hundreds of millions of doses could be ready by the end of the year. Public health experts have warned that rushing the process could undermine the treatment’s effectiveness, and even lead to sickness or death.
The White House has made no public announcement of the effort, which is known internally as “Operation Warp Speed.” Some officials are apparently trying to talk the president out of moving too quickly, warning about the risks that would come with setting an unrealistic deadline.The White House has made no public announcement of the effort, which is known internally as “Operation Warp Speed.” Some officials are apparently trying to talk the president out of moving too quickly, warning about the risks that would come with setting an unrealistic deadline.
But after the effort was first reported by Bloomberg News, the Department of Health and Human Services confirmed its existence. “Operation Warp Speed is clearly another extension of President Trump’s bold leadership and unwillingness to accept ‘business as usual’ approaches to addressing the Covid-19 crisis,” said Michael R. Caputo, the Trump loyalist recently hired as the department’s new assistant secretary for public affairs.But after the effort was first reported by Bloomberg News, the Department of Health and Human Services confirmed its existence. “Operation Warp Speed is clearly another extension of President Trump’s bold leadership and unwillingness to accept ‘business as usual’ approaches to addressing the Covid-19 crisis,” said Michael R. Caputo, the Trump loyalist recently hired as the department’s new assistant secretary for public affairs.
After hearing from Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, and other experts on the coronavirus task force that even a year to 18 months might be an ambitious timetable to have a vaccine ready for mass use, Mr. Trump ordered the health and human services secretary, Alex M. Azar II, to come up with a faster program.After hearing from Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, and other experts on the coronavirus task force that even a year to 18 months might be an ambitious timetable to have a vaccine ready for mass use, Mr. Trump ordered the health and human services secretary, Alex M. Azar II, to come up with a faster program.
According to one administration official, the idea would be to indemnify the major pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies from liability if the vaccines incite sickness or death, and to involve the Pentagon in the testing program. But most of the military’s efforts have focused on defenses against biological weapons, not viruses that arise naturally or are transmitted by community spread.According to one administration official, the idea would be to indemnify the major pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies from liability if the vaccines incite sickness or death, and to involve the Pentagon in the testing program. But most of the military’s efforts have focused on defenses against biological weapons, not viruses that arise naturally or are transmitted by community spread.
Mayor Eric M. Garcetti of Los Angeles said on Wednesday evening that any city and county residents who want a virus test can get one, whether or not they are showing symptoms.Mayor Eric M. Garcetti of Los Angeles said on Wednesday evening that any city and county residents who want a virus test can get one, whether or not they are showing symptoms.
Priority will still be given to health care employees, other workers who interact with the public and people with symptoms, but asymptomatic residents will also be able to get a test.Priority will still be given to health care employees, other workers who interact with the public and people with symptoms, but asymptomatic residents will also be able to get a test.
Mr. Garcetti said that in doing so, Los Angeles would be the “first major city in America” to offer free coronavirus testing to all residents. He said residents of Los Angeles County were included in the move.Mr. Garcetti said that in doing so, Los Angeles would be the “first major city in America” to offer free coronavirus testing to all residents. He said residents of Los Angeles County were included in the move.
“So, if you think you might have Covid-19, want the reassurance that you don’t or you’ve been around people that you have seen with symptoms, get a test,” the mayor said. “We can do it.”“So, if you think you might have Covid-19, want the reassurance that you don’t or you’ve been around people that you have seen with symptoms, get a test,” the mayor said. “We can do it.”
On Wednesday night, the website to which Mr. Garcetti directed Angelenos to schedule a test said there were “no appointments available” for people who were not experiencing flulike symptoms.On Wednesday night, the website to which Mr. Garcetti directed Angelenos to schedule a test said there were “no appointments available” for people who were not experiencing flulike symptoms.
“We’re sorry, but testing appointments are full at this time,” the website said when a user indicated that he or she had no symptoms. “Please check back for updates.”“We’re sorry, but testing appointments are full at this time,” the website said when a user indicated that he or she had no symptoms. “Please check back for updates.”
Gov. Gavin Newsom had outlined this week how the state may gradually reopen, and Mr. Garcetti said getting tested was a “really important step to prepare for other steps forward.”Gov. Gavin Newsom had outlined this week how the state may gradually reopen, and Mr. Garcetti said getting tested was a “really important step to prepare for other steps forward.”
It is unclear how many people will sign up to be tested or how long they will have to wait. Just over 6 million people have been tested in the United States, including about 603,000 in California, according to Johns Hopkins University data. More than 10 million people live in Los Angeles County, according to the Census Bureau.It is unclear how many people will sign up to be tested or how long they will have to wait. Just over 6 million people have been tested in the United States, including about 603,000 in California, according to Johns Hopkins University data. More than 10 million people live in Los Angeles County, according to the Census Bureau.
In response to a reporter’s question about how the city would manage to test so many people, Mr. Garcetti said the city had tests left over each day and was confident in its ability to test any resident who wanted it, including those who want to get tested multiple times over the course of several weeks or months.In response to a reporter’s question about how the city would manage to test so many people, Mr. Garcetti said the city had tests left over each day and was confident in its ability to test any resident who wanted it, including those who want to get tested multiple times over the course of several weeks or months.
Mr. Garcetti said the testing would be carried out at 34 testing sites in the city that have the capacity to test at least 18,000 people each day. At least 140,000 people have been tested at those sites in the past month, he said.Mr. Garcetti said the testing would be carried out at 34 testing sites in the city that have the capacity to test at least 18,000 people each day. At least 140,000 people have been tested at those sites in the past month, he said.
About 22,485 people in Los Angeles County have tested positive for the virus, and the death toll there has risen to 1,056.About 22,485 people in Los Angeles County have tested positive for the virus, and the death toll there has risen to 1,056.
Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida said on Wednesday that the state would take a “small, deliberate, methodical” approach to reopening. The first phase, which will begin on Monday, will allow restaurants and stores to operate at 25 percent capacity. Outdoor seating at restaurants will be allowed, with social distancing. Movie theaters will remain closed, as will bars, gyms and personal services like hairdressers.Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida said on Wednesday that the state would take a “small, deliberate, methodical” approach to reopening. The first phase, which will begin on Monday, will allow restaurants and stores to operate at 25 percent capacity. Outdoor seating at restaurants will be allowed, with social distancing. Movie theaters will remain closed, as will bars, gyms and personal services like hairdressers.
“We want to build as much confidence as possible with the general public,” Mr. DeSantis, a Republican, said at a news conference. “Fear is our enemy.”“We want to build as much confidence as possible with the general public,” Mr. DeSantis, a Republican, said at a news conference. “Fear is our enemy.”
For now, the reopening will exclude Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties, the state’s most populous, which have had a majority of cases. The Florida Keys will also remain closed to nonresidents. Mr. DeSantis said he was confident that southeast Florida would be able to follow the rest of the state soon but provided few other details as to how he would enforce the reopening phases or prevent residents from traveling among counties.For now, the reopening will exclude Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties, the state’s most populous, which have had a majority of cases. The Florida Keys will also remain closed to nonresidents. Mr. DeSantis said he was confident that southeast Florida would be able to follow the rest of the state soon but provided few other details as to how he would enforce the reopening phases or prevent residents from traveling among counties.
Florida has more than 33,000 cases. As of Wednesday evening, at least 1,216 people had died.Florida has more than 33,000 cases. As of Wednesday evening, at least 1,216 people had died.
The governor, who met with President Trump in Washington on Tuesday, said the White House gave the state the green light to begin lifting restrictions. “I spoke with the president’s team,” Mr. DeSantis said. “They agreed that Florida is ready to go to Phase One.”The governor, who met with President Trump in Washington on Tuesday, said the White House gave the state the green light to begin lifting restrictions. “I spoke with the president’s team,” Mr. DeSantis said. “They agreed that Florida is ready to go to Phase One.”
Republican lawmakers in Louisiana are pushing back against the governor’s decision to extend the statewide stay-at-home order until May 15 and are considering using their legislative authority to find a way to override it.Republican lawmakers in Louisiana are pushing back against the governor’s decision to extend the statewide stay-at-home order until May 15 and are considering using their legislative authority to find a way to override it.
The extension prompted an immediate backlash from Republicans, with some lawmakers weighing a petition that would officially challenge the governor’s order, The Advocate reported on Wednesday.The extension prompted an immediate backlash from Republicans, with some lawmakers weighing a petition that would officially challenge the governor’s order, The Advocate reported on Wednesday.
“We’re working on every possible solution to safely open our economy as quickly as possible and get our families back to work,” Clay Schexnayder, the Republican speaker of the State House of Representatives, said in a statement. “One of the ideas is to override the governor’s emergency declaration.”“We’re working on every possible solution to safely open our economy as quickly as possible and get our families back to work,” Clay Schexnayder, the Republican speaker of the State House of Representatives, said in a statement. “One of the ideas is to override the governor’s emergency declaration.”
As other states in the South have moved forward with plans to ease restrictions, Gov. John Bel Edwards, a Democrat, said that Louisiana, which was among the states hardest hit by the virus, was not ready to take that step. He met with President Trump on Wednesday and discussed efforts to ramp up testing and create a road map for reopening the state’s economy.As other states in the South have moved forward with plans to ease restrictions, Gov. John Bel Edwards, a Democrat, said that Louisiana, which was among the states hardest hit by the virus, was not ready to take that step. He met with President Trump on Wednesday and discussed efforts to ramp up testing and create a road map for reopening the state’s economy.
The governor’s supporters have argued that overriding his order would interrupt the flow of federal emergency funds and interfere with other executive commands, like the closure of schools.The governor’s supporters have argued that overriding his order would interrupt the flow of federal emergency funds and interfere with other executive commands, like the closure of schools.
Still, Republicans argued that Mr. Edwards’s decision would choke an already weakened economy, and that more relaxed measures would cause less damage to the economy while being sufficient in fighting the virus.Still, Republicans argued that Mr. Edwards’s decision would choke an already weakened economy, and that more relaxed measures would cause less damage to the economy while being sufficient in fighting the virus.
Critics of the governor are arguing for an alternative set of restrictions imposed on more targeted areas that are considered hot spots for the virus. “This one-size-fits-all lockdown is not sustainable,” Sharon Hewitt, a Republican state senator, said on Twitter.Critics of the governor are arguing for an alternative set of restrictions imposed on more targeted areas that are considered hot spots for the virus. “This one-size-fits-all lockdown is not sustainable,” Sharon Hewitt, a Republican state senator, said on Twitter.
On Wednesday, The Advocate reported that leaders of West Feliciana Parish said they were planning to allow the reopening of restaurants, libraries, museums and houses of worship, with social distancing restrictions in place.On Wednesday, The Advocate reported that leaders of West Feliciana Parish said they were planning to allow the reopening of restaurants, libraries, museums and houses of worship, with social distancing restrictions in place.
President Trump’s declaration on Tuesday that meatpacking plants were “critical infrastructure” that should be kept open during the pandemic sent a powerful signal that protecting the nation’s food supply was a federal priority.President Trump’s declaration on Tuesday that meatpacking plants were “critical infrastructure” that should be kept open during the pandemic sent a powerful signal that protecting the nation’s food supply was a federal priority.
But exactly how the executive order would keep plants running, even in the middle of outbreaks that have sickened thousands of workers and turned the facilities into hot spots, was unclear.But exactly how the executive order would keep plants running, even in the middle of outbreaks that have sickened thousands of workers and turned the facilities into hot spots, was unclear.
“This is more symbolism than substance,” said Steve Vladeck, a law professor at the University of Texas. “He’s opening the door for the executive branch to take some far more specific actions vis-à-vis the meat plants, but the order itself doesn’t do anything.”“This is more symbolism than substance,” said Steve Vladeck, a law professor at the University of Texas. “He’s opening the door for the executive branch to take some far more specific actions vis-à-vis the meat plants, but the order itself doesn’t do anything.”
While the order does not explicitly mandate that plants stay open, it could allow the Agriculture Department to potentially force meat companies to fulfill orders from retailers, effectively keeping them open in some capacity.While the order does not explicitly mandate that plants stay open, it could allow the Agriculture Department to potentially force meat companies to fulfill orders from retailers, effectively keeping them open in some capacity.
Lobbyists for the meat industry said the executive order, which allowed for the Defense Production Act to be invoked and could shield companies from lawsuits, was significant because it created federal guidelines for the steps plants needed to take to prevent the virus from spreading.Lobbyists for the meat industry said the executive order, which allowed for the Defense Production Act to be invoked and could shield companies from lawsuits, was significant because it created federal guidelines for the steps plants needed to take to prevent the virus from spreading.
“This order tells them they need to stay open, and they get cover,” Howard Roth, the president of the National Pork Producers Council, said on a conference call on Wednesday.“This order tells them they need to stay open, and they get cover,” Howard Roth, the president of the National Pork Producers Council, said on a conference call on Wednesday.
Still, the order does not address some critical questions, such as whether the plants should test all their workers for the virus before reopening.Still, the order does not address some critical questions, such as whether the plants should test all their workers for the virus before reopening.
The pandemic has officially snapped the U.S. economic growth streak.The pandemic has officially snapped the U.S. economic growth streak.
The questions now are how extensive the damage will be — and how long the country will take to recover.The questions now are how extensive the damage will be — and how long the country will take to recover.
U.S. gross domestic product, the broadest measure of goods and services produced in the economy, fell at a 4.8 percent annual rate in the first quarter of the year, the Commerce Department said on Wednesday. That is the first decline since 2014 and the worst quarterly contraction since 2008, when the country was in a deep recession.U.S. gross domestic product, the broadest measure of goods and services produced in the economy, fell at a 4.8 percent annual rate in the first quarter of the year, the Commerce Department said on Wednesday. That is the first decline since 2014 and the worst quarterly contraction since 2008, when the country was in a deep recession.
Things will get much worse. Widespread layoffs and business closings did not happen until late March, or the very end of the last quarter, in most of the country. Economists expect figures from the current quarter, which will capture the effects of the shutdown more fully, to show that G.D.P. contracted at an annual rate of 30 percent or more.Things will get much worse. Widespread layoffs and business closings did not happen until late March, or the very end of the last quarter, in most of the country. Economists expect figures from the current quarter, which will capture the effects of the shutdown more fully, to show that G.D.P. contracted at an annual rate of 30 percent or more.
“They’re going to be the worst in our lifetime,” Dan North, the chief economist for the credit insurance company Euler Hermes North America, said of the second-quarter figures. “They’re going to be the worst in the post-World War II era.”“They’re going to be the worst in our lifetime,” Dan North, the chief economist for the credit insurance company Euler Hermes North America, said of the second-quarter figures. “They’re going to be the worst in the post-World War II era.”
The larger question is what happens afterward. Steven Mnuchin, the Treasury secretary, said this week that he expected the economy to “really bounce back” this summer as states lift stay-at-home orders and trillions of dollars in federal emergency spending reach businesses and households.The larger question is what happens afterward. Steven Mnuchin, the Treasury secretary, said this week that he expected the economy to “really bounce back” this summer as states lift stay-at-home orders and trillions of dollars in federal emergency spending reach businesses and households.
Most independent economists are much less optimistic. The Congressional Budget Office last week released projections indicating that the economy would begin growing again in the second half of the year, but that the G.D.P. would not return to its pre-pandemic level until 2022 at the earliest.Most independent economists are much less optimistic. The Congressional Budget Office last week released projections indicating that the economy would begin growing again in the second half of the year, but that the G.D.P. would not return to its pre-pandemic level until 2022 at the earliest.
The Federal Reserve pledged on Wednesday to do what it could to insulate the economy as lockdowns took a severe toll on economic growth. The central bank said it would keep interest rates near zero until a recovery was well underway.The Federal Reserve pledged on Wednesday to do what it could to insulate the economy as lockdowns took a severe toll on economic growth. The central bank said it would keep interest rates near zero until a recovery was well underway.
The first female federal prisoner to die after contracting the coronavirus was a 30-year-old mother who had just weeks earlier given birth while on a ventilator.The first female federal prisoner to die after contracting the coronavirus was a 30-year-old mother who had just weeks earlier given birth while on a ventilator.
The woman, Andrea Circle Bear, of Eagle Butte, S.D., was sentenced in January to serve 26 months in prison for using a residence on the Cheyenne River Indian Reservation to sell drugs in 2018.The woman, Andrea Circle Bear, of Eagle Butte, S.D., was sentenced in January to serve 26 months in prison for using a residence on the Cheyenne River Indian Reservation to sell drugs in 2018.
On March 20, Ms. Circle Bear was transferred from a jail in Winner, S.D., to Federal Medical Center Carswell, a prison that holds about 1,625 female prisoners in Fort Worth. She was immediately placed into quarantine, the federal Bureau of Prisons said in a statement, in line with the agency’s new policy to reduce the risk of inmates contracting the virus from a new arrival.On March 20, Ms. Circle Bear was transferred from a jail in Winner, S.D., to Federal Medical Center Carswell, a prison that holds about 1,625 female prisoners in Fort Worth. She was immediately placed into quarantine, the federal Bureau of Prisons said in a statement, in line with the agency’s new policy to reduce the risk of inmates contracting the virus from a new arrival.
Because of concerns about her pregnancy, Ms. Circle Bear was admitted to a hospital about a week later, on March 28, but she was sent back to the prison later that day.Because of concerns about her pregnancy, Ms. Circle Bear was admitted to a hospital about a week later, on March 28, but she was sent back to the prison later that day.
Three days later, Ms. Circle Bear developed a fever, a dry cough and more possible coronavirus symptoms, and was taken back to the hospital, where she was placed on a ventilator, a sign that she was struggling to breathe on her own. The next day, on April 1, her baby was born by cesarean section. The judge who sentenced Ms. Circle Bear had said in court documents that her baby was due in early May.Three days later, Ms. Circle Bear developed a fever, a dry cough and more possible coronavirus symptoms, and was taken back to the hospital, where she was placed on a ventilator, a sign that she was struggling to breathe on her own. The next day, on April 1, her baby was born by cesarean section. The judge who sentenced Ms. Circle Bear had said in court documents that her baby was due in early May.
On April 4, three days after her baby’s birth, Ms. Circle Bear’s coronavirus test came back positive. She died on Tuesday, more than three weeks later.On April 4, three days after her baby’s birth, Ms. Circle Bear’s coronavirus test came back positive. She died on Tuesday, more than three weeks later.
“Not every prison death is avoidable, but Andrea Circle Bear’s certainly seems to have been — she simply should not have been in a federal prison under these circumstances,” Kevin Ring, president of Families Against Mandatory Minimums, said in a statement. “Her death is a national disgrace, and I hope it is a wake-up call.”“Not every prison death is avoidable, but Andrea Circle Bear’s certainly seems to have been — she simply should not have been in a federal prison under these circumstances,” Kevin Ring, president of Families Against Mandatory Minimums, said in a statement. “Her death is a national disgrace, and I hope it is a wake-up call.”
The virus has ravaged prisons across the United States, and eight of the nation’s 10 largest coronavirus clusters were in prisons or jails as of Wednesday evening, according to The New York Times’s tally of cases.The virus has ravaged prisons across the United States, and eight of the nation’s 10 largest coronavirus clusters were in prisons or jails as of Wednesday evening, according to The New York Times’s tally of cases.
Vice President Mike Pence defended his decision not to wear a face mask while touring a building at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota on Tuesday, saying he was regularly tested for the virus and was following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, even if he was violating the clinic’s policy.Vice President Mike Pence defended his decision not to wear a face mask while touring a building at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota on Tuesday, saying he was regularly tested for the virus and was following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, even if he was violating the clinic’s policy.
While critics lashed out at Mr. Pence, the head of the coronavirus task force, former Mayo Clinic patients and their family members pointed to the institution they had long held in high esteem for permitting the vice president to flout the rules.While critics lashed out at Mr. Pence, the head of the coronavirus task force, former Mayo Clinic patients and their family members pointed to the institution they had long held in high esteem for permitting the vice president to flout the rules.
Kenneth Rinzler, a lawyer who had open-heart surgery at the clinic in 2010, wrote in a letter to the president of the institution that he was “beyond shocked” to see Mr. Pence in the building without a mask “and violating every basic tenet of social distancing.”Kenneth Rinzler, a lawyer who had open-heart surgery at the clinic in 2010, wrote in a letter to the president of the institution that he was “beyond shocked” to see Mr. Pence in the building without a mask “and violating every basic tenet of social distancing.”
Susie Watson, the wife of a former bone marrow transplant patient at the clinic, was equally alarmed and wrote to the clinic asking why its administrators did not insist that Mr. Pence wear a mask.Susie Watson, the wife of a former bone marrow transplant patient at the clinic, was equally alarmed and wrote to the clinic asking why its administrators did not insist that Mr. Pence wear a mask.
“It really makes us wonder about your judgment,” she wrote in an email that she shared with The Times. “Wearing a mask should not be voluntary at Mayo. This is seriously upsetting, not to mention a huge public relations mistake for all the nation to see.”“It really makes us wonder about your judgment,” she wrote in an email that she shared with The Times. “Wearing a mask should not be voluntary at Mayo. This is seriously upsetting, not to mention a huge public relations mistake for all the nation to see.”
A spokeswoman for the vice president did not respond on Wednesday to a request for comment. Mr. Pence defended his decision on Tuesday.A spokeswoman for the vice president did not respond on Wednesday to a request for comment. Mr. Pence defended his decision on Tuesday.
As schools across the country consider when they might reopen and what that could look like, the American Federation of Teachers, one of two national teachers’ unions, outlined the conditions that it expected to be met before schools reopen.As schools across the country consider when they might reopen and what that could look like, the American Federation of Teachers, one of two national teachers’ unions, outlined the conditions that it expected to be met before schools reopen.
The vision is more cautious than the one expressed in recent days by the president, who on Monday told governors in a call that they should “maybe get going on it.”The vision is more cautious than the one expressed in recent days by the president, who on Monday told governors in a call that they should “maybe get going on it.”
Randi Weingarten, the union’s president, said the plan offered “a stark contrast to the conflicting guidance, bluster and lies of the Trump administration.”Randi Weingarten, the union’s president, said the plan offered “a stark contrast to the conflicting guidance, bluster and lies of the Trump administration.”
The union is asking for school buildings to remain closed until local cases have declined for 14 consecutive days with adequate testing. It says that when schools open, they should be prepared to screen for fevers, set up hand-washing stations at entry points, place individuals with suspected cases in isolation rooms and provide staff members with protective equipment.The union is asking for school buildings to remain closed until local cases have declined for 14 consecutive days with adequate testing. It says that when schools open, they should be prepared to screen for fevers, set up hand-washing stations at entry points, place individuals with suspected cases in isolation rooms and provide staff members with protective equipment.
The plan floats the possibility of voluntary summer programs, smaller class sizes of 12 to 15 students and schedules of partial days or weeks to maintain social distancing, with after-school programs for families that need more hours of child care.The plan floats the possibility of voluntary summer programs, smaller class sizes of 12 to 15 students and schedules of partial days or weeks to maintain social distancing, with after-school programs for families that need more hours of child care.
After a revered Hasidic rabbi died of the virus in Brooklyn on Tuesday, his fellow congregants informed the Police Department that they would hold a public funeral despite virus restrictions.After a revered Hasidic rabbi died of the virus in Brooklyn on Tuesday, his fellow congregants informed the Police Department that they would hold a public funeral despite virus restrictions.
Updated July 27, 2020 Updated August 3, 2020
The local police precinct did not stand in their way, a testament to the Hasidic community’s influence in the Williamsburg neighborhood. But by 7:30 p.m., an estimated 2,500 ultra-Orthodox Jewish men had arrived to mourn Rabbi Chaim Mertz, packing together shoulder-to-shoulder on the street and on the steps of brownstones, violating social distancing guidelines and turning the funeral into one of most fraught events of the virus crisis for Mayor Bill de Blasio.The local police precinct did not stand in their way, a testament to the Hasidic community’s influence in the Williamsburg neighborhood. But by 7:30 p.m., an estimated 2,500 ultra-Orthodox Jewish men had arrived to mourn Rabbi Chaim Mertz, packing together shoulder-to-shoulder on the street and on the steps of brownstones, violating social distancing guidelines and turning the funeral into one of most fraught events of the virus crisis for Mayor Bill de Blasio.
Police began to disperse the mourners, and the mayor lashed out on Twitter at “the Jewish community, and all communities,” saying he had instructed the Police Department “to proceed immediately to summons or even arrest those who gather in large groups.”Police began to disperse the mourners, and the mayor lashed out on Twitter at “the Jewish community, and all communities,” saying he had instructed the Police Department “to proceed immediately to summons or even arrest those who gather in large groups.”
Mr. de Blasio spent much of Wednesday on the defensive over his handling of the funeral and his use of the phrase “Jewish community” in his public criticism of the mourners.Mr. de Blasio spent much of Wednesday on the defensive over his handling of the funeral and his use of the phrase “Jewish community” in his public criticism of the mourners.
“People’s lives were in danger before my eyes and I was not going to tolerate it,” he told reporters. “I regret if the way I said it in any way gave people a feeling of being treated the wrong way, that was not my intention. It was said with love, but it was tough love.”“People’s lives were in danger before my eyes and I was not going to tolerate it,” he told reporters. “I regret if the way I said it in any way gave people a feeling of being treated the wrong way, that was not my intention. It was said with love, but it was tough love.”
The challenge of monitoring gatherings may become even more daunting as the weather gets warmer and more New Yorkers are tempted to leave their homes for the first time in weeks — even as the pandemic appears to have no clear end in sight.The challenge of monitoring gatherings may become even more daunting as the weather gets warmer and more New Yorkers are tempted to leave their homes for the first time in weeks — even as the pandemic appears to have no clear end in sight.
At his daily briefing, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York said that 330 more people in the state had died. He also said the number of virus patients newly admitted to hospitals had risen slightly for the first time in 12 days.At his daily briefing, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York said that 330 more people in the state had died. He also said the number of virus patients newly admitted to hospitals had risen slightly for the first time in 12 days.
The acting secretary of the Navy on Wednesday ordered a wider investigation into the events aboard the aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt, apparently shelving for now a recommendation by the Navy’s top admiral to restore Capt. Brett E. Crozier to command the virus-stricken warship.The acting secretary of the Navy on Wednesday ordered a wider investigation into the events aboard the aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt, apparently shelving for now a recommendation by the Navy’s top admiral to restore Capt. Brett E. Crozier to command the virus-stricken warship.
“I have unanswered questions that the preliminary inquiry has identified and that can only be answered by a deeper review,” the acting secretary, James E. McPherson, said in a statement.“I have unanswered questions that the preliminary inquiry has identified and that can only be answered by a deeper review,” the acting secretary, James E. McPherson, said in a statement.
Mr. McPherson said he was directing the chief of naval operations, Adm. Michael M. Gilday, to conduct a follow-up investigation, expanding a preliminary review that the Navy completed and presented last week to Defense Secretary Mark T. Esper.Mr. McPherson said he was directing the chief of naval operations, Adm. Michael M. Gilday, to conduct a follow-up investigation, expanding a preliminary review that the Navy completed and presented last week to Defense Secretary Mark T. Esper.
Mr. McPherson’s announcement came days after Admiral Gilday recommended reinstating Captain Crozier. But Mr. Esper, who initially said he would leave the process largely in the hands of the military chain of command, delayed endorsing the findings until he said he could review the Navy’s investigation.Mr. McPherson’s announcement came days after Admiral Gilday recommended reinstating Captain Crozier. But Mr. Esper, who initially said he would leave the process largely in the hands of the military chain of command, delayed endorsing the findings until he said he could review the Navy’s investigation.
Deaths have been mounting at a nursing home for veterans in western Massachusetts, where at least 68 residents have died after contracting the virus, making it one of the deadliest nursing home outbreaks in the country.Deaths have been mounting at a nursing home for veterans in western Massachusetts, where at least 68 residents have died after contracting the virus, making it one of the deadliest nursing home outbreaks in the country.
To date, 82 residents and 81 employees of the facility have tested positive.To date, 82 residents and 81 employees of the facility have tested positive.
Employees at the 247-bed, state-managed Holyoke Soldiers’ Home have described the facility as unprepared for the wave of cases that emerged in March. They said infected patients were left on crowded wards, exposing dozens of vulnerable veterans.Employees at the 247-bed, state-managed Holyoke Soldiers’ Home have described the facility as unprepared for the wave of cases that emerged in March. They said infected patients were left on crowded wards, exposing dozens of vulnerable veterans.
Lethal outbreaks of the virus have ravaged nursing homes across the nation. The virus is known to be more deadly to aging, immune-compromised people; small, confined settings like nursing homes, where workers frequently move from one room to the next, are particularly vulnerable to spreading infection.Lethal outbreaks of the virus have ravaged nursing homes across the nation. The virus is known to be more deadly to aging, immune-compromised people; small, confined settings like nursing homes, where workers frequently move from one room to the next, are particularly vulnerable to spreading infection.
The outbreak in Holyoke became public at the end of March, after Alex Morse, the mayor, received an anonymous letter from a staff member describing “horrific circumstances.” Within days, the facility’s superintendent had been placed on administrative leave, and the National Guard was deployed to assist with testing.The outbreak in Holyoke became public at the end of March, after Alex Morse, the mayor, received an anonymous letter from a staff member describing “horrific circumstances.” Within days, the facility’s superintendent had been placed on administrative leave, and the National Guard was deployed to assist with testing.
Since then, because military honors are unavailable, flags in the state have been lowered to half-staff in memory of veterans lost in Holyoke and at a soldiers’ home in Chelsea, Mass.Since then, because military honors are unavailable, flags in the state have been lowered to half-staff in memory of veterans lost in Holyoke and at a soldiers’ home in Chelsea, Mass.
A group of prominent independent restaurant owners is asking Congress for a $120 billion stabilization fund to prevent thousands of restaurants across the country from closing after huge and protracted losses stemming from the pandemic.A group of prominent independent restaurant owners is asking Congress for a $120 billion stabilization fund to prevent thousands of restaurants across the country from closing after huge and protracted losses stemming from the pandemic.
“We are fighting to give restaurants a fighting chance,” said José Andrés, a Washington-based chef and philanthropist who has been at the forefront of lobbying for his industry, which has accounted for about 60 percent of all American job losses in March, according to the Independent Restaurant Coalition. The group formed after a vast majority of independent operators were unable to take part in a federal program to aid small businesses.“We are fighting to give restaurants a fighting chance,” said José Andrés, a Washington-based chef and philanthropist who has been at the forefront of lobbying for his industry, which has accounted for about 60 percent of all American job losses in March, according to the Independent Restaurant Coalition. The group formed after a vast majority of independent operators were unable to take part in a federal program to aid small businesses.
Under that program, businesses will be forgiven if their employees are paid over the eight-week period after the loan is made. But that is difficult for bars and restaurants, many of which were ordered to close. Once reopened, many restaurants will be unable to comply with social-distancing rules and run at full capacity.Under that program, businesses will be forgiven if their employees are paid over the eight-week period after the loan is made. But that is difficult for bars and restaurants, many of which were ordered to close. Once reopened, many restaurants will be unable to comply with social-distancing rules and run at full capacity.
“How do I make money if I have to bring back all my staff doing less volume and less sales?” Nina Compton, the owner of Compère Lapin in New Orleans, said during a conference call on Wednesday. “We need support; we need stabilization.”“How do I make money if I have to bring back all my staff doing less volume and less sales?” Nina Compton, the owner of Compère Lapin in New Orleans, said during a conference call on Wednesday. “We need support; we need stabilization.”
Speaker Nancy Pelosi named six House Democrats on Wednesday to sit on a newly created select committee that will scrutinize the Trump administration’s response to the pandemic.Speaker Nancy Pelosi named six House Democrats on Wednesday to sit on a newly created select committee that will scrutinize the Trump administration’s response to the pandemic.
Among them are three senior Democrats who lead House committees: Representative Maxine Waters of California, the chairwoman of the Financial Services Committee; Representative Carolyn B. Maloney of New York, the chairwoman of the Oversight and Reform Committee; and Representative Nydia M. Velázquez of New York, the chairwoman of the Small Business Committee.Among them are three senior Democrats who lead House committees: Representative Maxine Waters of California, the chairwoman of the Financial Services Committee; Representative Carolyn B. Maloney of New York, the chairwoman of the Oversight and Reform Committee; and Representative Nydia M. Velázquez of New York, the chairwoman of the Small Business Committee.
Ms. Pelosi also selected three more junior members based on their areas of expertise. Representative Bill Foster, Democrat of Illinois, is a former scientist. Representative Andy Kim of New Jersey is a former National Security Council staff member with extensive national security experience. And Representative Jamie Raskin of Maryland was a constitutional law professor before joining the House.Ms. Pelosi also selected three more junior members based on their areas of expertise. Representative Bill Foster, Democrat of Illinois, is a former scientist. Representative Andy Kim of New Jersey is a former National Security Council staff member with extensive national security experience. And Representative Jamie Raskin of Maryland was a constitutional law professor before joining the House.
“We must make sure that the historic investment of taxpayer dollars made in the CARES Act is being used wisely and efficiently to help those in need, not be exploited by profiteers and price-gougers,” Ms. Pelosi said in a statement, referring to the $2.2 trillion stimulus measure.“We must make sure that the historic investment of taxpayer dollars made in the CARES Act is being used wisely and efficiently to help those in need, not be exploited by profiteers and price-gougers,” Ms. Pelosi said in a statement, referring to the $2.2 trillion stimulus measure.
The speaker had already announced that she would place Representative James Clyburn of South Carolina, the third-ranking Democrat and one of her top deputies, at the helm of the panel. It is expected to begin working in the weeks to come, and it will be given wide leeway to scrutinize all aspects of the federal response, including the fulfillment of the stimulus and the Trump administration’s struggle to ramp up virus testing.The speaker had already announced that she would place Representative James Clyburn of South Carolina, the third-ranking Democrat and one of her top deputies, at the helm of the panel. It is expected to begin working in the weeks to come, and it will be given wide leeway to scrutinize all aspects of the federal response, including the fulfillment of the stimulus and the Trump administration’s struggle to ramp up virus testing.
Five slots on the committee are reserved for Republicans, who have yet to name their members.Five slots on the committee are reserved for Republicans, who have yet to name their members.
Jared Kushner, the president’s son-in-law and senior adviser who has been overseeing efforts to provide medical equipment to hard-hit states, declared the Trump administration’s handling of the pandemic a great success despite withering criticism that it was slow to see the threat and respond to it.Jared Kushner, the president’s son-in-law and senior adviser who has been overseeing efforts to provide medical equipment to hard-hit states, declared the Trump administration’s handling of the pandemic a great success despite withering criticism that it was slow to see the threat and respond to it.
“We’re on the other side of the medical aspect of this, and I think that we’ve achieved all the different milestones that are needed,” Mr. Kushner said on “Fox & Friends” on Wednesday morning. “The federal government rose to the challenge, and this is a great success story. And I think that that’s really, you know, what needs to be told.”“We’re on the other side of the medical aspect of this, and I think that we’ve achieved all the different milestones that are needed,” Mr. Kushner said on “Fox & Friends” on Wednesday morning. “The federal government rose to the challenge, and this is a great success story. And I think that that’s really, you know, what needs to be told.”
Mr. Kushner rejected the concerns of governors and public health experts who said that testing remained woefully inadequate to justify reopening the country after weeks of lockdown. While Mr. Trump’s administration committed this week to helping states be able to test at least 2 percent of their populations each month, experts said that is a fraction of what is needed to map out how far the virus has spread.Mr. Kushner rejected the concerns of governors and public health experts who said that testing remained woefully inadequate to justify reopening the country after weeks of lockdown. While Mr. Trump’s administration committed this week to helping states be able to test at least 2 percent of their populations each month, experts said that is a fraction of what is needed to map out how far the virus has spread.
“We’ve done more tests than any other country in the world, so we’ve got to be doing a lot of things right,” Mr. Kushner said.“We’ve done more tests than any other country in the world, so we’ve got to be doing a lot of things right,” Mr. Kushner said.
Mr. Kushner did not address why the president for weeks played down the virus, comparing it to the ordinary flu, predicting that cases would go down to zero and suggesting that the virus would “miraculously” go away. People close to the White House have said that Mr. Kushner agreed with Mr. Trump early on that the Democrats and media were hyping the virus to damage the president, although Mr. Kushner’s allies have insisted that the always took it seriously.Mr. Kushner did not address why the president for weeks played down the virus, comparing it to the ordinary flu, predicting that cases would go down to zero and suggesting that the virus would “miraculously” go away. People close to the White House have said that Mr. Kushner agreed with Mr. Trump early on that the Democrats and media were hyping the virus to damage the president, although Mr. Kushner’s allies have insisted that the always took it seriously.
In his interview on Wednesday, Mr. Kushner said May “will be a transition month” as states began reopening. “I think you’ll see by June a lot of the country should be back to normal,” he said. “And the hope is that by July the country’s really rocking again.”In his interview on Wednesday, Mr. Kushner said May “will be a transition month” as states began reopening. “I think you’ll see by June a lot of the country should be back to normal,” he said. “And the hope is that by July the country’s really rocking again.”
Gilead Sciences on Wednesday announced that the company “is aware of positive data” from a federal trial of its experimental coronavirus drug, remdesivir, even as a new study reported that the drug offered no benefit to severely ill patients in China.Gilead Sciences on Wednesday announced that the company “is aware of positive data” from a federal trial of its experimental coronavirus drug, remdesivir, even as a new study reported that the drug offered no benefit to severely ill patients in China.
Neither Gilead nor officials at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, sponsor of the federal research, provided further details about the trial sponsored by N.I.A.I.D., part of the National Institutes of Health.Neither Gilead nor officials at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, sponsor of the federal research, provided further details about the trial sponsored by N.I.A.I.D., part of the National Institutes of Health.
President Trump is expected to discuss the findings at a White House briefing later today. In the past, Mr. Trump has hailed remdesivir as a potential “game changer,” despite spotty evidence.President Trump is expected to discuss the findings at a White House briefing later today. In the past, Mr. Trump has hailed remdesivir as a potential “game changer,” despite spotty evidence.
The other study, conducted in China and published in the Lancet, questioned the value of the drug for treatment of severely ill patients but left open the possibility that it might be useful for others. The research was incomplete, however, because not enough participants could be enrolled.The other study, conducted in China and published in the Lancet, questioned the value of the drug for treatment of severely ill patients but left open the possibility that it might be useful for others. The research was incomplete, however, because not enough participants could be enrolled.
Regarding the federal trial, the brief announcement by Gilead read: “We understand that the trial has met its primary endpoint and that N.I.A.I.D. will provide detailed information at an upcoming briefing.”Regarding the federal trial, the brief announcement by Gilead read: “We understand that the trial has met its primary endpoint and that N.I.A.I.D. will provide detailed information at an upcoming briefing.”
Trading in the company’s stock was halted before the market opened. The news drove stocks higher, and the S&P 500 rose about 2 percent in early trading.Trading in the company’s stock was halted before the market opened. The news drove stocks higher, and the S&P 500 rose about 2 percent in early trading.
The Food and Drug Administration acknowledged that officials were discussing approval of remdesivir for treatment of Covid-19 patients, presumably under emergency use provisions.The Food and Drug Administration acknowledged that officials were discussing approval of remdesivir for treatment of Covid-19 patients, presumably under emergency use provisions.
The N.I.A.I.D. study includes 400 patients who were hospitalized with Covid-19, the illness caused by the coronavirus, and randomly assigned to take remdesivir or a placebo. Outcomes were scored on a scale ranging from recovery to death.The N.I.A.I.D. study includes 400 patients who were hospitalized with Covid-19, the illness caused by the coronavirus, and randomly assigned to take remdesivir or a placebo. Outcomes were scored on a scale ranging from recovery to death.
Remdesivir has never been approved as a treatment for any disease. It was developed to fight Ebola, but results from a clinical trial in Africa were disappointing.Remdesivir has never been approved as a treatment for any disease. It was developed to fight Ebola, but results from a clinical trial in Africa were disappointing.
Expectations were fueled by anecdotal reports of Covid-19 patients who took remdesivir and recovered.Expectations were fueled by anecdotal reports of Covid-19 patients who took remdesivir and recovered.
Two such reports were published in the prestigious New England Journal of Medicine, lending credibility to what researchers later said were uncertain results.Two such reports were published in the prestigious New England Journal of Medicine, lending credibility to what researchers later said were uncertain results.
Without trials comparing the drug to a placebo, it has been impossible to know whether the drug made a difference or patients got better on their own with normal supportive care.Without trials comparing the drug to a placebo, it has been impossible to know whether the drug made a difference or patients got better on their own with normal supportive care.
The study of remdesivir published in the Lancet found no benefit to the drug, compared to placebo.The study of remdesivir published in the Lancet found no benefit to the drug, compared to placebo.
President Trump and Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the federal government’s leading epidemiologist, on Wednesday hailed the early trial results, holding out hope that it could help stem the rising death toll.President Trump and Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the federal government’s leading epidemiologist, on Wednesday hailed the early trial results, holding out hope that it could help stem the rising death toll.
Meeting with reporters at the White House, Dr. Fauci called the study very optimistic, although he cautioned that it still needs to be properly peer reviewed.Meeting with reporters at the White House, Dr. Fauci called the study very optimistic, although he cautioned that it still needs to be properly peer reviewed.
Dr. Fauci said the trial suggested that the drug could shorten the time to recovery by about a third. “Although a 31 percent improvement doesn’t seem like a knockout 100 percent, it is a very important proof of concept because what it has proven is that a drug can block this virus,” Dr. Fauci said. “This is very optimistic.”Dr. Fauci said the trial suggested that the drug could shorten the time to recovery by about a third. “Although a 31 percent improvement doesn’t seem like a knockout 100 percent, it is a very important proof of concept because what it has proven is that a drug can block this virus,” Dr. Fauci said. “This is very optimistic.”
Mr. Trump said that “certainly it’s positive, it’s a very positive event.”Mr. Trump said that “certainly it’s positive, it’s a very positive event.”
But the company noted that remdesivir is not yet licensed or approved in the United States or anywhere else “and has not yet been demonstrated to be safe or effective for the treatment of Covid-19.”But the company noted that remdesivir is not yet licensed or approved in the United States or anywhere else “and has not yet been demonstrated to be safe or effective for the treatment of Covid-19.”
Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo on Tuesday waded into a struggle between New York City and the state agency that runs the city’s transit system over the issue of homeless people sleeping on subway trains.Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo on Tuesday waded into a struggle between New York City and the state agency that runs the city’s transit system over the issue of homeless people sleeping on subway trains.
At his daily briefing, Mr. Cuomo held up a front-page photograph in The Daily News of homeless people camping on subway trains.At his daily briefing, Mr. Cuomo held up a front-page photograph in The Daily News of homeless people camping on subway trains.
“That is disgusting, what is happening on those subway cars,” he said, adding that what was shown in the image was “disrespectful to the essential workers” who rely on the subway.“That is disgusting, what is happening on those subway cars,” he said, adding that what was shown in the image was “disrespectful to the essential workers” who rely on the subway.
“It’s not even safe for the homeless people to be on trains,” he added. “No face masks, you have this whole outbreak, we’re concerned about homeless people, so we let them stay on the trains without protection in this epidemic of the Covid virus? No. We have to do better than that, and we will.”“It’s not even safe for the homeless people to be on trains,” he added. “No face masks, you have this whole outbreak, we’re concerned about homeless people, so we let them stay on the trains without protection in this epidemic of the Covid virus? No. We have to do better than that, and we will.”
Mr. Cuomo’s remarks came as he announced that the number of coronavirus patients newly admitted to hospitals in New York State had fallen more than 70 percent since the outbreak’s peak this month. The number reported on Tuesday was below 1,000 for the first time in over a month.Mr. Cuomo’s remarks came as he announced that the number of coronavirus patients newly admitted to hospitals in New York State had fallen more than 70 percent since the outbreak’s peak this month. The number reported on Tuesday was below 1,000 for the first time in over a month.
Reporting was contributed by Peter Baker, Ellen Barry, Alan Blinder, Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs, Audra D.S. Burch, Ben Casselman, Michael Cooper, Michael Corkery, Nicholas Fandos, Michael Gold, Dana Goldstein, Jenny Gross, Amy Harmon, Christine Hauser, Josh Katz, Gina Kolata, Lisa Lerer, Denise Lu, Patricia Mazzei, Rick Rojas, David E. Sanger, Margot Sanger-Katz, Marc Santora, Michael D. Shear, Eric Schmitt, Liam Stack, Jennifer Steinhauer, Eileen Sullivan, Vanessa Swales, Linda Villarosa, Kenneth P. Vogel and Noah Weiland.Reporting was contributed by Peter Baker, Ellen Barry, Alan Blinder, Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs, Audra D.S. Burch, Ben Casselman, Michael Cooper, Michael Corkery, Nicholas Fandos, Michael Gold, Dana Goldstein, Jenny Gross, Amy Harmon, Christine Hauser, Josh Katz, Gina Kolata, Lisa Lerer, Denise Lu, Patricia Mazzei, Rick Rojas, David E. Sanger, Margot Sanger-Katz, Marc Santora, Michael D. Shear, Eric Schmitt, Liam Stack, Jennifer Steinhauer, Eileen Sullivan, Vanessa Swales, Linda Villarosa, Kenneth P. Vogel and Noah Weiland.