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Coronavirus Live Updates: U.S. Death Toll, Highest in World, Surpasses 100,000 Coronavirus Live Updates: U.S. Death Toll, Highest in World, Surpasses 100,000
(32 minutes later)
Just over four months after the government confirmed the first known case, more than 100,000 people who had the coronavirus have died in the United States, according to a New York Times tally.Just over four months after the government confirmed the first known case, more than 100,000 people who had the coronavirus have died in the United States, according to a New York Times tally.
The death toll is far higher than in any other nation in the world.The death toll is far higher than in any other nation in the world.
The toll exceeds the number of U.S. military combat fatalities in every conflict since the Korean War. It matches the toll in the United States of the 1968 flu pandemic, and it is approaching the 116,000 killed in another flu outbreak a decade before that.The toll exceeds the number of U.S. military combat fatalities in every conflict since the Korean War. It matches the toll in the United States of the 1968 flu pandemic, and it is approaching the 116,000 killed in another flu outbreak a decade before that.
The pandemic is on track to be the country’s deadliest public health disaster since the 1918 flu pandemic, in which about 675,000 Americans died.The pandemic is on track to be the country’s deadliest public health disaster since the 1918 flu pandemic, in which about 675,000 Americans died.
As the nation neared the devastating milestone, President Trump flew to Florida on Wednesday in the hopes of watching the first launch of NASA astronauts into orbit from the United States in nearly a decade. But threatening weather led the launch to be postponed until Saturday at the earliest.As the nation neared the devastating milestone, President Trump flew to Florida on Wednesday in the hopes of watching the first launch of NASA astronauts into orbit from the United States in nearly a decade. But threatening weather led the launch to be postponed until Saturday at the earliest.
Though the numbers of new cases and deaths have begun trending downward, health experts warn of a possible resurgence as lockdowns are lifted.Though the numbers of new cases and deaths have begun trending downward, health experts warn of a possible resurgence as lockdowns are lifted.
More than 1.6 million people in the country have been infected. Hard-hit northeastern states have reported decreases in new cases in recent days, and the pace of deaths nationwide has fallen.More than 1.6 million people in the country have been infected. Hard-hit northeastern states have reported decreases in new cases in recent days, and the pace of deaths nationwide has fallen.
The daily death toll in New York, the hardest-hit state, fell this week to levels not seen since March.The daily death toll in New York, the hardest-hit state, fell this week to levels not seen since March.
But persistently high numbers of cases remain in a number of cities, including Chicago and Los Angeles. Cases have been rising in Arkansas, North Carolina and Wisconsin.But persistently high numbers of cases remain in a number of cities, including Chicago and Los Angeles. Cases have been rising in Arkansas, North Carolina and Wisconsin.
Most statisticians and public health experts, including Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, say the death toll is probably far higher than official counts. People who haven’t been tested are dying at home and at nursing homes, and early this year some coronavirus deaths were probably misidentified.Most statisticians and public health experts, including Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, say the death toll is probably far higher than official counts. People who haven’t been tested are dying at home and at nursing homes, and early this year some coronavirus deaths were probably misidentified.
The Times counted cases and deaths that have been identified by officials as probable coronavirus patients. Many states and counties only count cases and deaths in which an infection was confirmed through testing.The Times counted cases and deaths that have been identified by officials as probable coronavirus patients. Many states and counties only count cases and deaths in which an infection was confirmed through testing.
Because confirmed cases are widely considered to be an undercount of the true toll, some state and local governments have started identifying probable cases and deaths.Because confirmed cases are widely considered to be an undercount of the true toll, some state and local governments have started identifying probable cases and deaths.
The milestone comes amid debate over the timeliness of the nation’s response to the pandemic, with one Columbia University model showing that about 36,000 fewer people would have died if the United States had imposed social-distancing measures earlier.The milestone comes amid debate over the timeliness of the nation’s response to the pandemic, with one Columbia University model showing that about 36,000 fewer people would have died if the United States had imposed social-distancing measures earlier.
The first confirmed infections in Europe and the United States, discovered in January, did not ignite the epidemics that followed, according to a close analysis of hundreds of viral genomes.The first confirmed infections in Europe and the United States, discovered in January, did not ignite the epidemics that followed, according to a close analysis of hundreds of viral genomes.
Those outbreaks began weeks later, the study concluded. The revised timeline may clarify nagging ambiguities about the arrival of the pandemic, Carl Zimmer reports.Those outbreaks began weeks later, the study concluded. The revised timeline may clarify nagging ambiguities about the arrival of the pandemic, Carl Zimmer reports.
For example, while President Trump has frequently claimed that a ban on travelers from China prevented the outbreak from becoming much worse, the new data suggest that the virus that started Washington State’s epidemic arrived about two weeks after the ban was imposed on Feb. 2.For example, while President Trump has frequently claimed that a ban on travelers from China prevented the outbreak from becoming much worse, the new data suggest that the virus that started Washington State’s epidemic arrived about two weeks after the ban was imposed on Feb. 2.
And the authors argue that the relatively late emergence of the outbreak means that more lives could have been saved by early action, such as testing and contact tracing.And the authors argue that the relatively late emergence of the outbreak means that more lives could have been saved by early action, such as testing and contact tracing.
The new analysis is not the last word. Scientific understanding of the virus is evolving almost daily, and this type of research yields a range of possible results, not complete certainty.The new analysis is not the last word. Scientific understanding of the virus is evolving almost daily, and this type of research yields a range of possible results, not complete certainty.
Many infections in Washington State seem to have occurred earlier in February, and other models suggested that the epidemic there began before the middle of the month.Many infections in Washington State seem to have occurred earlier in February, and other models suggested that the epidemic there began before the middle of the month.
But a number of virus experts said that the new report convincingly ruled out a connection between the first confirmed cases and the later outbreaks.But a number of virus experts said that the new report convincingly ruled out a connection between the first confirmed cases and the later outbreaks.
“This paper clearly shows this didn’t happen,” said Kristian Andersen, a computational biologist at the Scripps Research Institute in San Diego, who was not involved in the research.“This paper clearly shows this didn’t happen,” said Kristian Andersen, a computational biologist at the Scripps Research Institute in San Diego, who was not involved in the research.
Michael Worobey, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Arizona, and his colleagues posted a preliminary version of their study online on Saturday. It has not yet been published in a scientific journal.Michael Worobey, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Arizona, and his colleagues posted a preliminary version of their study online on Saturday. It has not yet been published in a scientific journal.
In California, which has become the fourth state with at least 100,000 known infections, Gov. Gavin Newsom seems to be moving closer to handing the reins of reopening to county public health officials.In California, which has become the fourth state with at least 100,000 known infections, Gov. Gavin Newsom seems to be moving closer to handing the reins of reopening to county public health officials.
The state joins Illinois, New Jersey and New York with the highest case counts.The state joins Illinois, New Jersey and New York with the highest case counts.
At least 47 of California’s 58 counties have filed their so-called county variance attestations to prove that they meet the criteria to reopen more quickly than the rest of the state, the governor said. And he has been in talks with leaders in Los Angeles County, by most measures the hardest-hit part of the state, about the possibility of allowing some areas there to reopen more quickly than others.At least 47 of California’s 58 counties have filed their so-called county variance attestations to prove that they meet the criteria to reopen more quickly than the rest of the state, the governor said. And he has been in talks with leaders in Los Angeles County, by most measures the hardest-hit part of the state, about the possibility of allowing some areas there to reopen more quickly than others.
For now, Mayor Eric Garcetti of Los Angeles announced on Tuesday evening that “lower risk” in-store shopping could resume, many pools could open, and houses of worship could avail themselves of the new state guidelines.For now, Mayor Eric Garcetti of Los Angeles announced on Tuesday evening that “lower risk” in-store shopping could resume, many pools could open, and houses of worship could avail themselves of the new state guidelines.
The growing emphasis on local influence — state officials announced on Monday that places of worship could reopen at lower capacity only with the approval of county public health departments — could help Mr. Newsom mute his critics, some of whom have gone to court to challenge California’s restrictions.The growing emphasis on local influence — state officials announced on Monday that places of worship could reopen at lower capacity only with the approval of county public health departments — could help Mr. Newsom mute his critics, some of whom have gone to court to challenge California’s restrictions.
The gradual changes in California reflect a national shift as states that had previously been among the most locked down begin loosening restrictions, often on a regional basis.The gradual changes in California reflect a national shift as states that had previously been among the most locked down begin loosening restrictions, often on a regional basis.
The rising case counts in parts of California come as other sections of the country — including the Minneapolis area, Wisconsin and parts of the South — have reported more infections. Those increasing numbers are certain to intensify debates over when and how the country should ease restrictions that were imposed to try to slow the spread of the virus.The rising case counts in parts of California come as other sections of the country — including the Minneapolis area, Wisconsin and parts of the South — have reported more infections. Those increasing numbers are certain to intensify debates over when and how the country should ease restrictions that were imposed to try to slow the spread of the virus.
After months of lockdown, Illinois plans to lift restrictions on Friday on retail stores, gyms and personal care services in some areas, though the Chicago area will reopen on its own timeline. Washington, D.C., which has also been locked down, is also tentatively planning to open certain businesses on Friday.After months of lockdown, Illinois plans to lift restrictions on Friday on retail stores, gyms and personal care services in some areas, though the Chicago area will reopen on its own timeline. Washington, D.C., which has also been locked down, is also tentatively planning to open certain businesses on Friday.
Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms of Atlanta announced on Wednesday that the city would move to the second phase of its reopening plan and allow private gatherings of no more than 10 people, as long as they followed social-distancing guidelines.Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms of Atlanta announced on Wednesday that the city would move to the second phase of its reopening plan and allow private gatherings of no more than 10 people, as long as they followed social-distancing guidelines.
“Data shows that we are in a position to move forward,” the mayor said in a statement. “We encourage Atlantans citywide to continue to follow all precautionary guidelines as community transmission of Covid-19 still poses a threat to our city.”“Data shows that we are in a position to move forward,” the mayor said in a statement. “We encourage Atlantans citywide to continue to follow all precautionary guidelines as community transmission of Covid-19 still poses a threat to our city.”
The No. 3 House Republican criticized President Trump on Wednesday for pushing a false conspiracy theory about Joe Scarborough, the MSNBC host, saying he should drop the matter and focus on leading the country through the pandemic.The No. 3 House Republican criticized President Trump on Wednesday for pushing a false conspiracy theory about Joe Scarborough, the MSNBC host, saying he should drop the matter and focus on leading the country through the pandemic.
In unprompted remarks to reporters after a news conference on Capitol Hill, Representative Liz Cheney, Republican of Wyoming, said that Mr. Trump should stop spreading the false claim that Mr. Scarborough, a former Republican congressman, was involved in the death of an aide in 2001, which the police ruled an accident.In unprompted remarks to reporters after a news conference on Capitol Hill, Representative Liz Cheney, Republican of Wyoming, said that Mr. Trump should stop spreading the false claim that Mr. Scarborough, a former Republican congressman, was involved in the death of an aide in 2001, which the police ruled an accident.
“I do think the president should stop tweeting about Joe Scarborough,” she said. “We’re in the middle of a pandemic. He’s the commander in chief of this nation, and it’s causing great pain to the family of the young woman who died, so I would urge him to stop it.” “I do think the president should stop tweeting about Joe Scarborough,” she said. “We’re in the middle of a pandemic. He’s the commander in chief of this nation, and it’s causing great pain to the family of the young woman who died.”
It was a striking line of criticism from Ms. Cheney, who is one of just a few Republicans who have rebuked the president for his barrage against Mr. Scarborough. The president’s attacks have continued even as the family of Lori Klausutis, the aide who died after a heart attack caused her to fall and hit her head on a desk, publicly asked him to stop. It was a striking line of criticism from Ms. Cheney, who is among the few Republicans who have rebuked the president for his barrage against Mr. Scarborough. The president’s attacks have continued even as the family of Lori Klausutis, the aide who died after a heart attack caused her to fall and hit her head on a desk, publicly asked him to stop.
Senator Mitt Romney, Republican of Utah and one of the most frequent critics of the president, tweeted on Wednesday that he considered Mr. Scarborough a friend and knew him to be capable of weathering “vile, baseless accusations.” Senator Mitt Romney, Republican of Utah and a frequent critic of the president, tweeted on Wednesday that he considered Mr. Scarborough a friend and knew him to be capable of weathering “vile, baseless accusations.”
“But T.J.?” Mr. Romney said of Ms. Klausutis’s widower, who pleaded unsuccessfully with Twitter to take down the posts. “His heart is breaking. Enough already.”“But T.J.?” Mr. Romney said of Ms. Klausutis’s widower, who pleaded unsuccessfully with Twitter to take down the posts. “His heart is breaking. Enough already.”
Another House Republican, Representative Adam Kinzinger of Illinois, also used Twitter to implore Mr. Trump to halt his attacks. “Completely unfounded conspiracy,” he wrote this week. “Just stop. Stop spreading it, stop creating paranoia. It will destroy us.” Another House Republican, Representative Adam Kinzinger of Illinois, also implored Mr. Trump to halt his attacks. “Completely unfounded conspiracy,” he wrote this week on Twitter. “Just stop. Stop spreading it, stop creating paranoia. It will destroy us.”
A vast majority Republicans, however, have remained silent. Representative Kevin McCarthy of California, the minority leader, sidestepped a question on Wednesday about the president’s campaign against Mr. Scarborough, telling reporters that he had not served in Congress with the cable news host, who represented Florida in the House from 1995 to 2001. A vast majority of Republicans, however, have remained silent. Representative Kevin McCarthy of California, the minority leader, sidestepped a question on Wednesday about the president’s campaign against Mr. Scarborough, telling reporters that he had not served in Congress with the cable news host, who represented Florida in the House from 1995 to 2001.
“My focus right now is the House of Representatives,” Mr. McCarthy said.“My focus right now is the House of Representatives,” Mr. McCarthy said.
Asked whether she knew Mr. Scarborough personally, Ms. Cheney simply repeated: “The president should stop tweeting about it.”Asked whether she knew Mr. Scarborough personally, Ms. Cheney simply repeated: “The president should stop tweeting about it.”
The mayor of Washington, D.C., said on Wednesday that the city would begin to loosen stay-at-home restrictions on Friday, even though the chief White House official overseeing the virus response said this week that the suburban region around the nation’s capital remained among the most worrisome metropolitan areas in the country.The mayor of Washington, D.C., said on Wednesday that the city would begin to loosen stay-at-home restrictions on Friday, even though the chief White House official overseeing the virus response said this week that the suburban region around the nation’s capital remained among the most worrisome metropolitan areas in the country.
“The bottom line we do want to emphasize is this virus is still in our city and our region and our country,” Mayor Muriel Bowser said as she announced that restaurants would be able to allow outdoor seating for groups of six or fewer, hairstyling salons could provide services by appointment only and stores could open curbside pickup. Gatherings of more than 10 people will remain prohibited.“The bottom line we do want to emphasize is this virus is still in our city and our region and our country,” Mayor Muriel Bowser said as she announced that restaurants would be able to allow outdoor seating for groups of six or fewer, hairstyling salons could provide services by appointment only and stores could open curbside pickup. Gatherings of more than 10 people will remain prohibited.
On Tuesday, the city had 72 new cases, bringing the total to 8,406, and five new deaths for a total of 445. Although Ms. Bowser said that the city had maintained 14 days of sustained decline in community transmission, there was a one-day increase this weekend.On Tuesday, the city had 72 new cases, bringing the total to 8,406, and five new deaths for a total of 445. Although Ms. Bowser said that the city had maintained 14 days of sustained decline in community transmission, there was a one-day increase this weekend.
Dr. Deborah Birx, the lead coordinator of the White House virus task force, told the nation’s governors on Tuesday that Washington and its suburbs, as well as Baltimore, were among a handful of metropolitan areas that had expanded testing but failed to break 10 percent positive results. Northern Virginia is also expected to begin a first phase of reopening, even as cases there continue to rise. The Maryland suburbs near Washington — where cases have been highest — have moved more cautiously.Dr. Deborah Birx, the lead coordinator of the White House virus task force, told the nation’s governors on Tuesday that Washington and its suburbs, as well as Baltimore, were among a handful of metropolitan areas that had expanded testing but failed to break 10 percent positive results. Northern Virginia is also expected to begin a first phase of reopening, even as cases there continue to rise. The Maryland suburbs near Washington — where cases have been highest — have moved more cautiously.
“I want to make sure we all understand that moving into Phase 1 means that more people can get infected,” Ms. Bowser said, emphasizing that residents were expected to use masks and maintain social distancing and aggressive hand-washing. “We know that without a vaccine or a cure that we will see new infections.”“I want to make sure we all understand that moving into Phase 1 means that more people can get infected,” Ms. Bowser said, emphasizing that residents were expected to use masks and maintain social distancing and aggressive hand-washing. “We know that without a vaccine or a cure that we will see new infections.”
She added that City Hall would continue to encourage remote work for businesses and the federal government. “It cannot be said enough every single one of us has a role to play,” she said.She added that City Hall would continue to encourage remote work for businesses and the federal government. “It cannot be said enough every single one of us has a role to play,” she said.
The House of Representatives held its first partly remote vote on Wednesday, using a new proxy voting system instituted for the pandemic to approve a bill aimed at punishing China for human rights abuses against the Uighurs.The House of Representatives held its first partly remote vote on Wednesday, using a new proxy voting system instituted for the pandemic to approve a bill aimed at punishing China for human rights abuses against the Uighurs.
Despite a Republican lawsuit seeking to block the practice, more than 70 Democrats took advantage of the procedures, which allow any absent lawmaker to designate another member who is physically present to record a vote on his or her behalf during periods when the speaker, the clerk and the sergeant-at-arms agree there is a state of emergency because of the virus.Despite a Republican lawsuit seeking to block the practice, more than 70 Democrats took advantage of the procedures, which allow any absent lawmaker to designate another member who is physically present to record a vote on his or her behalf during periods when the speaker, the clerk and the sergeant-at-arms agree there is a state of emergency because of the virus.
Representative Brendan Boyle, Democrat of Pennsylvania, cast the first proxy vote in the chamber, on behalf of Representative Zoe Lofgren, Democrat of California.Representative Brendan Boyle, Democrat of Pennsylvania, cast the first proxy vote in the chamber, on behalf of Representative Zoe Lofgren, Democrat of California.
“I inform the House that Ms. Lofgren would vote yes,” Mr. Boyle said, reading from a designated script.“I inform the House that Ms. Lofgren would vote yes,” Mr. Boyle said, reading from a designated script.
Behind him, Democrats lined up to cast votes on behalf of their colleagues, as staff frantically wiped down the microphone between votes.Behind him, Democrats lined up to cast votes on behalf of their colleagues, as staff frantically wiped down the microphone between votes.
Republicans have protested the historic change to House rules, adopted this month over their unanimous opposition, and filed a lawsuit Tuesday seeking to block it.Republicans have protested the historic change to House rules, adopted this month over their unanimous opposition, and filed a lawsuit Tuesday seeking to block it.
In a heated debate on the House floor, Republican leaders laid out their case anew on Wednesday, arguing that there would be a cloud of suspicion over anything passed under the arrangement and the Senate might simply refuse to take it up.In a heated debate on the House floor, Republican leaders laid out their case anew on Wednesday, arguing that there would be a cloud of suspicion over anything passed under the arrangement and the Senate might simply refuse to take it up.
“Whatever the Democrats move forward probably will never become law,” the lead plaintiff, Representative Kevin McCarthy of California, the minority leader, told reporters before the vote.“Whatever the Democrats move forward probably will never become law,” the lead plaintiff, Representative Kevin McCarthy of California, the minority leader, told reporters before the vote.
The suit will face an uphill battle in the federal courts, where judges have been reluctant to second-guess Congress’s ability to set its own rules. And it comes as the Supreme Court has been hearing arguments remotely, by telephone. But it fits into a broader push by Republicans, led by President Trump, to put a cloud of suspicion over Democratic efforts to find alternative ways to vote during the pandemic and to portray them as fraudulent attempts to gain political advantageThe suit will face an uphill battle in the federal courts, where judges have been reluctant to second-guess Congress’s ability to set its own rules. And it comes as the Supreme Court has been hearing arguments remotely, by telephone. But it fits into a broader push by Republicans, led by President Trump, to put a cloud of suspicion over Democratic efforts to find alternative ways to vote during the pandemic and to portray them as fraudulent attempts to gain political advantage
Yet another medical study, this one by doctors at a large hospital system based in New Orleans, has called attention to the disproportionate burden the pandemic is taking on communities of color.Yet another medical study, this one by doctors at a large hospital system based in New Orleans, has called attention to the disproportionate burden the pandemic is taking on communities of color.
Though Ochsner Health serves a predominantly white population, most patients hospitalized with Covid-19 over a recent six-week period were black, according to research published on Wednesday in The New England Journal of Medicine.Though Ochsner Health serves a predominantly white population, most patients hospitalized with Covid-19 over a recent six-week period were black, according to research published on Wednesday in The New England Journal of Medicine.
Ochsner Health operates hospitals and outpatient facilities throughout Louisiana. About 30 percent of the patient population is black. Among the 1,382 patients with Covid-19 who were hospitalized between March 1 and April 11, however, 77 percent were black. Ochsner Health operates hospitals and outpatient facilities throughout Louisiana. About 30 percent of the patient population is black. Among the 1,382 patients with Covid-19 who were hospitalized from March 1 to April 11, however, 77 percent were black.
Black patients made up 80 percent of patients transferred to the intensive care unit and nearly 82 percent of those put on ventilators to help with breathing.Black patients made up 80 percent of patients transferred to the intensive care unit and nearly 82 percent of those put on ventilators to help with breathing.
Black patients accounted for 70.6 percent of the 326 hospital patients who died.Black patients accounted for 70.6 percent of the 326 hospital patients who died.
Health officials in Louisiana were among the first this year to publish Covid-19 statistics broken down by race. The figures showed that black residents represented 59 percent of all Covid-19-related deaths in the state, though they represented only 33 percent of the state’s population.Health officials in Louisiana were among the first this year to publish Covid-19 statistics broken down by race. The figures showed that black residents represented 59 percent of all Covid-19-related deaths in the state, though they represented only 33 percent of the state’s population.
The authors of the new study reported that compared with white patients who were hospitalized, black patients had higher rates of obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and chronic kidney disease, all of which have been linked to worse outcomes in patients with Covid-19.The authors of the new study reported that compared with white patients who were hospitalized, black patients had higher rates of obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and chronic kidney disease, all of which have been linked to worse outcomes in patients with Covid-19.
The authors did not immediately respond to requests for comment. But the paper suggested that higher blood levels of markers for inflammation found in black patients “may suggest a different immune response to Covid-19 according to race.”The authors did not immediately respond to requests for comment. But the paper suggested that higher blood levels of markers for inflammation found in black patients “may suggest a different immune response to Covid-19 according to race.”
Most service workers in New Orleans and surrounding areas are members of minority groups, the authors said, and may have had a greater risk of exposure to the virus.Most service workers in New Orleans and surrounding areas are members of minority groups, the authors said, and may have had a greater risk of exposure to the virus.
The United States, already wrestling with an economic collapse not seen in a generation, is on the precipice of a compounding crisis of evictions, as protections and payments extended to millions of people out of work begin to run out.The United States, already wrestling with an economic collapse not seen in a generation, is on the precipice of a compounding crisis of evictions, as protections and payments extended to millions of people out of work begin to run out.
The fallout is predicted to be devastating for the nation’s renters, who entered the pandemic with lower incomes, significantly less in savings and housing costs that ate up more of their paychecks. They also were more likely to work in industries where job losses have been particularly severe.The fallout is predicted to be devastating for the nation’s renters, who entered the pandemic with lower incomes, significantly less in savings and housing costs that ate up more of their paychecks. They also were more likely to work in industries where job losses have been particularly severe.
Many have been scraping by because of temporary government assistance and emergency orders that put many evictions on hold. But evictions will soon be allowed in about half of the states, according to Emily A. Benfer, a housing expert and associate professor at Columbia Law School who is tracking eviction policies.Many have been scraping by because of temporary government assistance and emergency orders that put many evictions on hold. But evictions will soon be allowed in about half of the states, according to Emily A. Benfer, a housing expert and associate professor at Columbia Law School who is tracking eviction policies.
“I think we will enter into a severe renter crisis, and very quickly,” Professor Benfer said. Without a new round of government intervention, she added, “we will have an avalanche of evictions across the country.”“I think we will enter into a severe renter crisis, and very quickly,” Professor Benfer said. Without a new round of government intervention, she added, “we will have an avalanche of evictions across the country.”
That means more and more families may soon face displacement at a time when people are still being urged to stay at home.That means more and more families may soon face displacement at a time when people are still being urged to stay at home.
In many places, that has already begun. The Texas Supreme Court recently ruled that evictions could begin again. In the Oklahoma City area, sheriffs apologetically announced that they planned to start enforcing eviction notices this week. And a handful of states had few statewide protections in place to begin with, leaving residents particularly vulnerable as eviction cases stacked up.In many places, that has already begun. The Texas Supreme Court recently ruled that evictions could begin again. In the Oklahoma City area, sheriffs apologetically announced that they planned to start enforcing eviction notices this week. And a handful of states had few statewide protections in place to begin with, leaving residents particularly vulnerable as eviction cases stacked up.
When hundreds of demonstrators gathered in Minneapolis on Tuesday night to protest the death of George Floyd, a black man who died while in police custody, the large crowd was both a powerful call for action in the case and a precarious act as the virus was still flaring in the region.When hundreds of demonstrators gathered in Minneapolis on Tuesday night to protest the death of George Floyd, a black man who died while in police custody, the large crowd was both a powerful call for action in the case and a precarious act as the virus was still flaring in the region.
The number of newly reported virus cases continues to climb in Minnesota, and the counties that make up the Minneapolis-St. Paul area lead the state in both total and new cases. The Twin Cities metro area also accounted for a surge in patients requiring hospitalization in intensive care.The number of newly reported virus cases continues to climb in Minnesota, and the counties that make up the Minneapolis-St. Paul area lead the state in both total and new cases. The Twin Cities metro area also accounted for a surge in patients requiring hospitalization in intensive care.
Still, demonstrators gathered for a rare large protest since the pandemic began.Still, demonstrators gathered for a rare large protest since the pandemic began.
Mayor Jacob Frey of Minneapolis said he understood and supported the rights of people who protested the episode, but he asked that they wear masks and respect social distancing procedures.Mayor Jacob Frey of Minneapolis said he understood and supported the rights of people who protested the episode, but he asked that they wear masks and respect social distancing procedures.
“I encourage people to voice their opinions and anger, their heartbreak and their sadness, because undoubtedly it will be there,” he said.“I encourage people to voice their opinions and anger, their heartbreak and their sadness, because undoubtedly it will be there,” he said.
Many protesters wore face coverings, and some brought hand sanitizer. But the group as a whole seemed to send a message that their desire for justice had outweighed safety concerns as they gathered at the intersection where Mr. Floyd, 46, had been pinned down by the police a day earlier and captured on video saying, “I can’t breathe.”Many protesters wore face coverings, and some brought hand sanitizer. But the group as a whole seemed to send a message that their desire for justice had outweighed safety concerns as they gathered at the intersection where Mr. Floyd, 46, had been pinned down by the police a day earlier and captured on video saying, “I can’t breathe.”
As protesters yelled about Mr. Floyd’s death, some pulled their masks aside to be fully heard. One woman said, “anyone worried about social distancing should have just stayed home.”As protesters yelled about Mr. Floyd’s death, some pulled their masks aside to be fully heard. One woman said, “anyone worried about social distancing should have just stayed home.”
Education Secretary Betsy DeVos said she would direct public school districts to share a large portion of federal rescue funding with private school students, regardless of income.Education Secretary Betsy DeVos said she would direct public school districts to share a large portion of federal rescue funding with private school students, regardless of income.
“The CARES Act is a special, pandemic-related appropriation to benefit all American students, teachers and families,” Ms. DeVos wrote in a letter Friday, referring to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act. “There is nothing in the act suggesting Congress intended to discriminate between children based on public or nonpublic school attendance, as you seem to do. The virus affects everyone.”“The CARES Act is a special, pandemic-related appropriation to benefit all American students, teachers and families,” Ms. DeVos wrote in a letter Friday, referring to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act. “There is nothing in the act suggesting Congress intended to discriminate between children based on public or nonpublic school attendance, as you seem to do. The virus affects everyone.”
A range of education officials said the guidance would divert millions of dollars from disadvantaged students and force districts to support even the wealthiest private schools.A range of education officials said the guidance would divert millions of dollars from disadvantaged students and force districts to support even the wealthiest private schools.
The association representing the nation’s school superintendents told districts to ignore the guidance, and at least two states — Indiana and Maine — said they would.The association representing the nation’s school superintendents told districts to ignore the guidance, and at least two states — Indiana and Maine — said they would.
Private school leaders say they are also in crisis. Many of those schools serve low-income students whose parents have fled failing public schools. About 5.7 million students attend private schools, 30 percent of them from families with incomes below $75,000 a year. Private school groups say those families are most at risk without federal aid.Private school leaders say they are also in crisis. Many of those schools serve low-income students whose parents have fled failing public schools. About 5.7 million students attend private schools, 30 percent of them from families with incomes below $75,000 a year. Private school groups say those families are most at risk without federal aid.
Under federal education law, school districts are required to use funding they receive for their poorest students to provide “equitable services,” such as tutoring and transportation for low-income students attending private schools in their districts. But Ms. DeVos’s guidance would award private schools more services than the law would normally require.Under federal education law, school districts are required to use funding they receive for their poorest students to provide “equitable services,” such as tutoring and transportation for low-income students attending private schools in their districts. But Ms. DeVos’s guidance would award private schools more services than the law would normally require.
Last week, key House and Senate Education Committee leaders, including Senator Lamar Alexander of Tennessee, a Republican, said Ms. DeVos’s interpretation was flawed.Last week, key House and Senate Education Committee leaders, including Senator Lamar Alexander of Tennessee, a Republican, said Ms. DeVos’s interpretation was flawed.
Democratic leaders called on Ms. DeVos to revise her guidance.Democratic leaders called on Ms. DeVos to revise her guidance.
Walt Disney World in Florida, one of the world’s largest tourist sites that draws 93 million people a year, will reopen to the public on a limited basis in mid-July.Walt Disney World in Florida, one of the world’s largest tourist sites that draws 93 million people a year, will reopen to the public on a limited basis in mid-July.
Disney presented its reopening plan on Wednesday to the Orange County Recovery Task Force in Orlando. Two of Disney World’s four main theme parks, the Magic Kingdom and the Animal Kingdom, will reopen on July 11 with reduced capacity and numerous safety precautions, including mandatory face masks for all visitors and employees. Disney World’s remaining major parks, Epcot and Hollywood Studios, will reopen on July 15. The resort has been closed since March 15. Disney presented its reopening plan on Wednesday to the Orange County Recovery Task Force in Orlando. Two of Disney World’s four main theme parks, the Magic Kingdom and the Animal Kingdom, will reopen on July 11 with reduced capacity and numerous safety precautions, including mandatory face masks for all visitors and employees. The remaining major parks, Epcot and Hollywood Studios, will reopen on July 15. The resort has been closed since March 15.
Disney said its “thoughtful, methodical and phased” approach to reopening would include increased use of plexiglass barriers and contactless payment systems. All visitors will need a reservation. Temperature checks will be conducted at entrances. Disney also said its parades, fireworks displays and character meet-and-greets would be suspended because of crowd control concerns.Disney said its “thoughtful, methodical and phased” approach to reopening would include increased use of plexiglass barriers and contactless payment systems. All visitors will need a reservation. Temperature checks will be conducted at entrances. Disney also said its parades, fireworks displays and character meet-and-greets would be suspended because of crowd control concerns.
Disney did not give reopening dates for its two water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. Disney Springs, an adjacent 120-acre shopping mall, began to reopen on May 20.Disney did not give reopening dates for its two water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. Disney Springs, an adjacent 120-acre shopping mall, began to reopen on May 20.
Tourism is Orlando’s largest industry, supporting 41 percent of the city’s work force, according to the trade organization Visit Orlando. Disney’s 25,000-acre, six-park resort southwest of Orlando attracts the bulk of visitors, as millions of people flock to Disney World annually.Tourism is Orlando’s largest industry, supporting 41 percent of the city’s work force, according to the trade organization Visit Orlando. Disney’s 25,000-acre, six-park resort southwest of Orlando attracts the bulk of visitors, as millions of people flock to Disney World annually.
Mayor Carlos Gimenez of Miami-Dade County said beaches would reopen on June 1. Beachgoers from different households must keep six feet away from others, he said. Face masks are only required when people use bathrooms or go to concession stands.Mayor Carlos Gimenez of Miami-Dade County said beaches would reopen on June 1. Beachgoers from different households must keep six feet away from others, he said. Face masks are only required when people use bathrooms or go to concession stands.
Wall Street climbed for a second day on Wednesday as investors kept their focus on the prospect of economic recovery.Wall Street climbed for a second day on Wednesday as investors kept their focus on the prospect of economic recovery.
The S&P 500 rose 1.5 percent — after swinging between gains and losses earlier in the day as weakness in large technology stocks offset gains in other parts of the market. The S & P 500 had climbed 1.2 percent on Tuesday. The S&P 500 rose 1.5 percent — after swinging between gains and losses earlier in the day as weakness in large technology stocks offset gains in other parts of the market. The S&P 500 had climbed 1.2 percent on Tuesday.
Wednesday’s trading reflected optimism about a return to normal as states and national governments lift stay-at-home restrictions. Companies that will benefit as shoppers are allowed back in stores and people begin to travel again, were among the best performers in the S & P 500. Nordstrom, Gap and Kohl’s each rose more than 14 percent. Wednesday’s trading reflected optimism about a return to normal as states and national governments lift stay-at-home restrictions. Companies that will benefit as shoppers are allowed back in stores and people begin to travel again, were among the best performers in the S&P 500. Nordstrom, Gap and Kohl’s each rose more than 14 percent.
Though stocks have been rising lately, trading has been unsteady with the S & P 500 alternating between gains and losses on a near-daily basis, as expectations for an eventual recovery have squared off against the reality that the damage is still severe and likely to continue. Though stocks have been rising lately, trading has been unsteady with the S&P 500 alternating between gains and losses on a near-daily basis, as expectations for an eventual recovery have squared off against the reality that the damage is still severe and likely to continue.
Boeing said Wednesday that it was laying off more than 6,700 employees in the United States, all of whom will be notified this week. Another 5,500 workers have been approved for voluntary buyouts and will leave within weeks. Boeing said Wednesday that it was laying off more than 6,700 employees in the United States, all of whom will be notified this week. Another 5,500 workers have been approved for voluntary buyouts and will leave in weeks.
“The Covid-19 pandemic’s devastating impact on the airline industry means a deep cut in the number of commercial jets and services our customers will need over the next few years, which in turn means fewer jobs on our lines and in our offices,” the chief executive, David L. Calhoun, said in a note to employees. “The Covid-19 pandemic’s devastating impact on the airline industry means a deep cut in the number of commercial jets and services our customers will need over the next few years,” the chief executive, David L. Calhoun, said in a note to employees.
Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York said on Wednesday that he had a “good conversation” with Mr. Trump about funding for unfinished local infrastructure projects. But he demurred when asked whether the president shared the view of Republican lawmakers about blocking aid to New York. Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York said on Wednesday that he had a “good conversation” with President Trump about funding for unfinished local infrastructure projects. But he demurred when asked whether the president shared the view of Republican lawmakers about blocking aid to New York.
Among the projects on the agenda, which the governor said would be key to the state’s economy, was the plan to build new rail tunnels under the Hudson River, a project known as Gateway; the expansion of the Second Avenue Subway; and an AirTrain to La Guardia Airport. All the projects discussed required some level of federal funding or approval.Among the projects on the agenda, which the governor said would be key to the state’s economy, was the plan to build new rail tunnels under the Hudson River, a project known as Gateway; the expansion of the Second Avenue Subway; and an AirTrain to La Guardia Airport. All the projects discussed required some level of federal funding or approval.
“He said we’ll talk next week,” Mr. Cuomo said after his meeting at the White House, his second in recent weeks.“He said we’ll talk next week,” Mr. Cuomo said after his meeting at the White House, his second in recent weeks.
The governor was far less sanguine about Republican senators who had questioned the need to give additional funding to hard-hit states like New York and California.The governor was far less sanguine about Republican senators who had questioned the need to give additional funding to hard-hit states like New York and California.
“I know what the Republican senators are saying, and first of all, it’s a lie,” Mr. Cuomo said.“I know what the Republican senators are saying, and first of all, it’s a lie,” Mr. Cuomo said.
He said that Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the majority leader, and other senators “take more money” from the federal government than they provide in revenue.He said that Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the majority leader, and other senators “take more money” from the federal government than they provide in revenue.
When they ask why they should give money to states to deal with the pandemic, Mr. Cuomo said, “Why not? What better national purpose?”When they ask why they should give money to states to deal with the pandemic, Mr. Cuomo said, “Why not? What better national purpose?”
He would not say whether Mr. Trump said he was aligned with Mr. McConnell.He would not say whether Mr. Trump said he was aligned with Mr. McConnell.
“I think the president is focused on the reopening, on stimulating the economy and getting the economy back,” Mr. Cuomo said, saying it was “the correct focus.”“I think the president is focused on the reopening, on stimulating the economy and getting the economy back,” Mr. Cuomo said, saying it was “the correct focus.”
But he said he believed the president understood discreet and specific projects, such as infrastructure. “He’s a builder. He’s a developer,” Mr. Cuomo said. “He gets it.”But he said he believed the president understood discreet and specific projects, such as infrastructure. “He’s a builder. He’s a developer,” Mr. Cuomo said. “He gets it.”
Most of the state has started reopening; an additional 74 deaths were reported on Wednesday. New York City’s mayor has said he hoped the city could begin reopening in the first half of June, but it has yet to meet two benchmarks, on available hospital beds and contact tracers. On Wednesday, the mayor said the city would have more than 1,700 contact tracers working by June 1.Most of the state has started reopening; an additional 74 deaths were reported on Wednesday. New York City’s mayor has said he hoped the city could begin reopening in the first half of June, but it has yet to meet two benchmarks, on available hospital beds and contact tracers. On Wednesday, the mayor said the city would have more than 1,700 contact tracers working by June 1.
A group of Democratic lawmakers from the Washington area told the Trump administration this week that they believed it would be “impossible” to safely stage a major celebration around Independence Day in the nation’s capital this summer.A group of Democratic lawmakers from the Washington area told the Trump administration this week that they believed it would be “impossible” to safely stage a major celebration around Independence Day in the nation’s capital this summer.
“Given the current Covid-19 crisis, we believe such an event would needlessly risk the health and safety of thousands of Americans,” the lawmakers — two senators, seven representatives and the District of Columbia’s non-voting House delegate — wrote in a letter to the defense and interior secretaries. “Given the current Covid-19 crisis, we believe such an event would needlessly risk the health and safety of thousands of Americans,” the lawmakers — two senators, seven representatives and the District of Columbia’s nonvoting House delegate — wrote in a letter to the defense and interior secretaries.
Mr. Trump, a vocal proponent of patriotic displays that critics have sometimes condemned as extravagant or politically motivated, suggested in April that Fourth of July festivities in Washington would have more limited attendance.Mr. Trump, a vocal proponent of patriotic displays that critics have sometimes condemned as extravagant or politically motivated, suggested in April that Fourth of July festivities in Washington would have more limited attendance.
“This year, most likely, we’ll be standing six feet apart,” Mr. Trump said. “We’ll have to do that in a very, very interesting way. And we’ll even do it greater, so we’ll leave a little extra distance.” “This year, most likely, we’ll be standing six feet apart,” he said. “We’ll have to do that in a very, very interesting way. And we’ll even do it greater, so we’ll leave a little extra distance.”
This week, though, the lawmakers asked the administration to shelve any plans entirely. The Washington area has struggled to contain the virus, and they warned that holding a mass gathering along the National Mall would be perilous.This week, though, the lawmakers asked the administration to shelve any plans entirely. The Washington area has struggled to contain the virus, and they warned that holding a mass gathering along the National Mall would be perilous.
Thousands of people attended a “Salute to America” event last year, which Mr. Trump had pledged would be a “show of a lifetime.” The president was flanked by Bradley armored vehicles and M1A2 tanks at the event, held at the Lincoln Memorial.Thousands of people attended a “Salute to America” event last year, which Mr. Trump had pledged would be a “show of a lifetime.” The president was flanked by Bradley armored vehicles and M1A2 tanks at the event, held at the Lincoln Memorial.
“The administration, including your agencies, should be focusing on helping American families, not on a vanity project for the president,” the lawmakers wrote.“The administration, including your agencies, should be focusing on helping American families, not on a vanity project for the president,” the lawmakers wrote.
France revoked the authorization allowing the use of the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine as a treatment for Covid-19 patients on Wednesday, a day after halting its use in clinical trials.France revoked the authorization allowing the use of the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine as a treatment for Covid-19 patients on Wednesday, a day after halting its use in clinical trials.
The drug, which has been heavily promoted by President Trump despite the lack of evidence that it is effective against the virus, was temporarily removed from global safety trials earlier this week by the World Health Organization, which called for a review of new safety concerns.The drug, which has been heavily promoted by President Trump despite the lack of evidence that it is effective against the virus, was temporarily removed from global safety trials earlier this week by the World Health Organization, which called for a review of new safety concerns.
All this time with your family may have led to greater feelings of connectedness. Or maybe you are experiencing the opposite: more bickering, fighting and frustrations. Here is some advice for getting through those rough patches.All this time with your family may have led to greater feelings of connectedness. Or maybe you are experiencing the opposite: more bickering, fighting and frustrations. Here is some advice for getting through those rough patches.
Reporting was contributed by Maggie Astor, Brookes Barnes, Karen Barrow, Alan Blinder, Emily Cochrane, Lindsey Rogers Cook, Michael Cooper, Jill Cowan, Andrew Das, Nicholas Fandos, Kimiko de Freytas-Tamura, Matt Furber, Michael Gold, Erica L. Green, Jenny Gross, Chris Hamby, Maggie Haberman, Mohammed Hadi, Amy Harmon, Anemona Hartocollis, Winnie Hu, Julia Jacobs, Michael Levenson, Sarah Mervosh, Claire Cain Miller, Matt Phillips, Roni Caryn Rabin, Michael S. Schmidt, Mitch Smith, Kaly Soto, Jennifer Steinhauer, Matt Stevens, Eileen Sullivan, Neil Vigdor, David Waldstein, Billy Witz and Carl Zimmer.Reporting was contributed by Maggie Astor, Brookes Barnes, Karen Barrow, Alan Blinder, Emily Cochrane, Lindsey Rogers Cook, Michael Cooper, Jill Cowan, Andrew Das, Nicholas Fandos, Kimiko de Freytas-Tamura, Matt Furber, Michael Gold, Erica L. Green, Jenny Gross, Chris Hamby, Maggie Haberman, Mohammed Hadi, Amy Harmon, Anemona Hartocollis, Winnie Hu, Julia Jacobs, Michael Levenson, Sarah Mervosh, Claire Cain Miller, Matt Phillips, Roni Caryn Rabin, Michael S. Schmidt, Mitch Smith, Kaly Soto, Jennifer Steinhauer, Matt Stevens, Eileen Sullivan, Neil Vigdor, David Waldstein, Billy Witz and Carl Zimmer.