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E.U. Slams China Over Disinformation Campaign E.U. Slams China Over Disinformation Campaign
(8 days later)
This briefing has ended. Read live coronavirus updates here.This briefing has ended. Read live coronavirus updates here.
The European Union leveled its most forceful criticism yet of China’s role in the spread of false information about the pandemic, saying on Wednesday that the country had engaged in “targeted influence operations and disinformation campaigns in the bloc.”The European Union leveled its most forceful criticism yet of China’s role in the spread of false information about the pandemic, saying on Wednesday that the country had engaged in “targeted influence operations and disinformation campaigns in the bloc.”
In a new report, the European Commission, the bloc’s executive arm, blamed “foreign actors and certain third countries, in particular Russia and China,” for the disinformation campaigns. The accusation has been made before against Russia, but the inclusion of China was a significant development.In a new report, the European Commission, the bloc’s executive arm, blamed “foreign actors and certain third countries, in particular Russia and China,” for the disinformation campaigns. The accusation has been made before against Russia, but the inclusion of China was a significant development.
In April, European Union officials bowed to heavy pressure from Beijing and softened their criticism of China in a report documenting how governments had advanced disinformation about the virus.In April, European Union officials bowed to heavy pressure from Beijing and softened their criticism of China in a report documenting how governments had advanced disinformation about the virus.
A draft of that report noted that Beijing had criticized France as slow to respond to the pandemic and pushed false accusations that French politicians had used racist slurs against the head of the World Health Organization.A draft of that report noted that Beijing had criticized France as slow to respond to the pandemic and pushed false accusations that French politicians had used racist slurs against the head of the World Health Organization.
The final April report omitted any mention of the French episode and toned down other critical comments about China.The final April report omitted any mention of the French episode and toned down other critical comments about China.
In its new report, the European Union called on social media platforms to strengthen fact-checking, to promote authoritative content and to label and combat inaccurate information. The commission said it would strengthen its own abilities to detect disinformation and sound alarms publicly, while working closely with the W.H.O., NATO and other groups.In its new report, the European Union called on social media platforms to strengthen fact-checking, to promote authoritative content and to label and combat inaccurate information. The commission said it would strengthen its own abilities to detect disinformation and sound alarms publicly, while working closely with the W.H.O., NATO and other groups.
“Disinformation in times of the coronavirus can kill,” said Josep Borrell, the bloc’s foreign policy chief. “We have a duty to protect our citizens by making them aware of false information and expose the actors responsible for engaging in such practices.”“Disinformation in times of the coronavirus can kill,” said Josep Borrell, the bloc’s foreign policy chief. “We have a duty to protect our citizens by making them aware of false information and expose the actors responsible for engaging in such practices.”
The coronavirus may not be done with the United States, but the nation’s capital seems to be done with the coronavirus. On Capitol Hill, lawmakers in both parties were examining police brutality. The Senate health committee was contending with getting children back to school. The White House, which halted its daily virus briefings more than a month ago, was wrestling with race relations.The coronavirus may not be done with the United States, but the nation’s capital seems to be done with the coronavirus. On Capitol Hill, lawmakers in both parties were examining police brutality. The Senate health committee was contending with getting children back to school. The White House, which halted its daily virus briefings more than a month ago, was wrestling with race relations.
As the pandemic’s grim numbers continue to climb, President Trump and lawmakers in both parties are exhibiting their usual short attention span, alarming public health experts who worry that a second wave of infections could deliver a punch more brutal than the first while the nation’s political leaders are looking the other way.As the pandemic’s grim numbers continue to climb, President Trump and lawmakers in both parties are exhibiting their usual short attention span, alarming public health experts who worry that a second wave of infections could deliver a punch more brutal than the first while the nation’s political leaders are looking the other way.
In May, as he pressed to reopen the country, Mr. Trump announced that he planned to wind down the coronavirus task force, only to reverse himself, saying that he had not realized how “popular” it was. But its public presence has largely disappeared since then. Kayleigh McEnany, the White House press secretary, said on Wednesday that it had met this week, albeit without the public news conference that used to follow such meetings.In May, as he pressed to reopen the country, Mr. Trump announced that he planned to wind down the coronavirus task force, only to reverse himself, saying that he had not realized how “popular” it was. But its public presence has largely disappeared since then. Kayleigh McEnany, the White House press secretary, said on Wednesday that it had met this week, albeit without the public news conference that used to follow such meetings.
Public health experts and communications strategists say that regular, clear and consistent messages to the public are essential. They say the absence of Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, who had been a steady presence on television, and the administration’s coronavirus response coordinator, Dr. Deborah L. Birx, has created a confusing and potentially harmful void. (Dr. Fauci made brief reappearances this week, talking with biotech executives on Tuesday and appearing on the ABC program “Good Morning America” on Wednesday.)Public health experts and communications strategists say that regular, clear and consistent messages to the public are essential. They say the absence of Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, who had been a steady presence on television, and the administration’s coronavirus response coordinator, Dr. Deborah L. Birx, has created a confusing and potentially harmful void. (Dr. Fauci made brief reappearances this week, talking with biotech executives on Tuesday and appearing on the ABC program “Good Morning America” on Wednesday.)
Inside the White House, Mr. Trump has attended significantly fewer meetings and briefings with the coronavirus task force, according to senior administration officials. He has begun plotting his return to the campaign trail, even as cases are climbing in key swing states.Inside the White House, Mr. Trump has attended significantly fewer meetings and briefings with the coronavirus task force, according to senior administration officials. He has begun plotting his return to the campaign trail, even as cases are climbing in key swing states.
For nearly two weeks now, the United States has been convulsed by the twin crises of the pandemic and civil unrest after the killing of George Floyd, a black man who died in police custody after gasping for air with an officer’s knee against his neck.For nearly two weeks now, the United States has been convulsed by the twin crises of the pandemic and civil unrest after the killing of George Floyd, a black man who died in police custody after gasping for air with an officer’s knee against his neck.
Congress continues to address the coronavirus crisis — in addition to a health committee hearing Wednesday, the treasury secretary appeared before the Senate Banking Committee, where he defended the administration’s decision to reopen the economy. But the big news on Capitol Hill was the testimony of Mr. Floyd’s brother, Philonise Floyd, before the House Judiciary Committee.Congress continues to address the coronavirus crisis — in addition to a health committee hearing Wednesday, the treasury secretary appeared before the Senate Banking Committee, where he defended the administration’s decision to reopen the economy. But the big news on Capitol Hill was the testimony of Mr. Floyd’s brother, Philonise Floyd, before the House Judiciary Committee.
In one sense, the shifting emphasis is a sign that the nation is no longer on a war footing, but has come to accept that the pandemic is not going away anytime soon and must be incorporated into Americans’ daily lives. Politicians and health officials are now simply trying to minimize its effects, knowing that Americans will continue to get sick and die.In one sense, the shifting emphasis is a sign that the nation is no longer on a war footing, but has come to accept that the pandemic is not going away anytime soon and must be incorporated into Americans’ daily lives. Politicians and health officials are now simply trying to minimize its effects, knowing that Americans will continue to get sick and die.
KEY DATA OF THE DAYKEY DATA OF THE DAY
The United States surpassed two million coronavirus cases on Wednesday, according to a New York Times database, which showed that the outbreak was continuing to spread, with cases rising in 21 states as governments eased restrictions and Americans tried to return to their routines.The United States surpassed two million coronavirus cases on Wednesday, according to a New York Times database, which showed that the outbreak was continuing to spread, with cases rising in 21 states as governments eased restrictions and Americans tried to return to their routines.
Despite improvement in states that were initially hit hard, such as New York, new hot spots have emerged in others, including Arizona, where an increase in cases and hospitalizations has alarmed local officials.Despite improvement in states that were initially hit hard, such as New York, new hot spots have emerged in others, including Arizona, where an increase in cases and hospitalizations has alarmed local officials.
Banner Health, a major hospital system, warned this month that hospitalizations in the state had been increasing and that “most concerning is the steep incline of Covid-19 patients on ventilators.”Banner Health, a major hospital system, warned this month that hospitalizations in the state had been increasing and that “most concerning is the steep incline of Covid-19 patients on ventilators.”
In early May, Gov. Doug Ducey of Arizona began easing restrictions, starting with retail businesses and then barbershops and restaurants. President Trump traveled to Phoenix on May 5 and spoke at a Honeywell mask production facility, where he praised the nation’s move toward reopening: “So, reopening of our country — who would have ever thought we were going to be saying that?”In early May, Gov. Doug Ducey of Arizona began easing restrictions, starting with retail businesses and then barbershops and restaurants. President Trump traveled to Phoenix on May 5 and spoke at a Honeywell mask production facility, where he praised the nation’s move toward reopening: “So, reopening of our country — who would have ever thought we were going to be saying that?”
The state’s stay-at-home order ended May 15. Mr. Trump said on Wednesday that he intended to hold a rally in Arizona.The state’s stay-at-home order ended May 15. Mr. Trump said on Wednesday that he intended to hold a rally in Arizona.
Mr. Ducey had ordered the state’s hospitals to increase capacity by 50 percent at the end of March to meet a potential surge in virus cases. The surge did not materialize, but the number of virus patients has doubled since May, with more people showing up in the emergency rooms and testing positive.Mr. Ducey had ordered the state’s hospitals to increase capacity by 50 percent at the end of March to meet a potential surge in virus cases. The surge did not materialize, but the number of virus patients has doubled since May, with more people showing up in the emergency rooms and testing positive.
Here’s a look around the rest of the country:Here’s a look around the rest of the country:
In Alaska, where new case reports had slowed to a trickle in May, the number is among the state’s worst since the start of the pandemic. There have been more than 100 new cases in the last week alone, bringing the state’s total since the beginning of March to 620. Recent outbreaks have been reported among seafood workers and ferry crew members. The state reported on Tuesday its first virus death in more than a month.In Alaska, where new case reports had slowed to a trickle in May, the number is among the state’s worst since the start of the pandemic. There have been more than 100 new cases in the last week alone, bringing the state’s total since the beginning of March to 620. Recent outbreaks have been reported among seafood workers and ferry crew members. The state reported on Tuesday its first virus death in more than a month.
In Iowa, where cases have been on a downward trajectory, the Iowa State Fair — a favorite destination for political candidates, tourists and Butter Cow enthusiasts — announced on Wednesday that it would not be held this year. Iowa has seen at least 22,520 cases.In Iowa, where cases have been on a downward trajectory, the Iowa State Fair — a favorite destination for political candidates, tourists and Butter Cow enthusiasts — announced on Wednesday that it would not be held this year. Iowa has seen at least 22,520 cases.
Some parts of the South are finally showing signs of progress. New case reports have started trending downward in Alabama and leveled off in Mississippi. But persistent growth continues in Arkansas, North Carolina and Florida. And in South Carolina, there have been nearly 1,000 new cases in the last two days.Some parts of the South are finally showing signs of progress. New case reports have started trending downward in Alabama and leveled off in Mississippi. But persistent growth continues in Arkansas, North Carolina and Florida. And in South Carolina, there have been nearly 1,000 new cases in the last two days.
Republicans expect to move their national convention from Charlotte, N.C., to Jacksonville, Fla., a shift planned after Mr. Trump told officials in North Carolina that he did not want to use social-distancing measures aimed at halting the spread of the virus, according to three senior Republicans.Republicans expect to move their national convention from Charlotte, N.C., to Jacksonville, Fla., a shift planned after Mr. Trump told officials in North Carolina that he did not want to use social-distancing measures aimed at halting the spread of the virus, according to three senior Republicans.
ECONOMIC ROUNDUPECONOMIC ROUNDUP
The economic devastation wrought by the virus in the United States and around the world is not likely to recede swiftly, several grim new forecasts warned on Wednesday.The economic devastation wrought by the virus in the United States and around the world is not likely to recede swiftly, several grim new forecasts warned on Wednesday.
The world economy is facing the most severe recession in a century. It could experience a halting recovery with a potential second wave of the virus and as countries embrace protectionist policies, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development warned in a new report.The world economy is facing the most severe recession in a century. It could experience a halting recovery with a potential second wave of the virus and as countries embrace protectionist policies, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development warned in a new report.
In the United States, officials at the Federal Reserve indicated that they expected the unemployment rate to end 2020 at 9.3 percent and remain elevated for years, as the Fed left interest rates unchanged and near zero. Output is expected to be 6.5 percent lower at the end of this year than it was in the final quarter of 2019.In the United States, officials at the Federal Reserve indicated that they expected the unemployment rate to end 2020 at 9.3 percent and remain elevated for years, as the Fed left interest rates unchanged and near zero. Output is expected to be 6.5 percent lower at the end of this year than it was in the final quarter of 2019.
The new forecasts predict a much slower path back to economic strength than the Trump administration — and perhaps the stock market — seems to expect as the economy begins to climb out of a virus-spurred downturn. The Fed skipped its quarterly economic summary in March as the pandemic gripped the United States, sowing uncertainty as business activity came to a near standstill.The new forecasts predict a much slower path back to economic strength than the Trump administration — and perhaps the stock market — seems to expect as the economy begins to climb out of a virus-spurred downturn. The Fed skipped its quarterly economic summary in March as the pandemic gripped the United States, sowing uncertainty as business activity came to a near standstill.
“The ongoing public health crisis will weigh heavily on economic activity, employment and inflation in the near term, and poses considerable risks to the economic outlook over the medium term,” the Fed said in the post-meeting statement that accompanied the data outlook. Here are some other key economic developments:“The ongoing public health crisis will weigh heavily on economic activity, employment and inflation in the near term, and poses considerable risks to the economic outlook over the medium term,” the Fed said in the post-meeting statement that accompanied the data outlook. Here are some other key economic developments:
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin told the Senate’s small business committee on Wednesday that the next round of economic stimulus legislation must be targeted to help industries that have been hit hardest by the pandemic, and that the focus must be on creating incentives for jobless workers to be rehired.Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin told the Senate’s small business committee on Wednesday that the next round of economic stimulus legislation must be targeted to help industries that have been hit hardest by the pandemic, and that the focus must be on creating incentives for jobless workers to be rehired.
A loan program for small businesses that ran through its initial $349 billion in just 13 days, prompting Congress to swiftly approve a second round of $310 billion, has slowed down. Some businesses have grown more wary of taking the money. As of Monday, more than $130 billion was left in the fund, known as the Paycheck Protection Program. More money was being returned than borrowed on many days last month, according to data from the Small Business Administration, which is overseeing the program.A loan program for small businesses that ran through its initial $349 billion in just 13 days, prompting Congress to swiftly approve a second round of $310 billion, has slowed down. Some businesses have grown more wary of taking the money. As of Monday, more than $130 billion was left in the fund, known as the Paycheck Protection Program. More money was being returned than borrowed on many days last month, according to data from the Small Business Administration, which is overseeing the program.
With the congressional oversight commission that is supposed to monitor pandemic relief funds still leaderless, two California Democrats urged their leaders to name a chair so the panel can begin scrutinizing how the Trump administration is distributing the money. The Democrats, Senator Kamala Harris and Representative Katie Porter, wrote a letter to Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senator Mitch McConnell, the majority leader, asking for an update on the long-stalled process of appointing a fifth member of the Coronavirus Oversight Commission to serve as its chair.With the congressional oversight commission that is supposed to monitor pandemic relief funds still leaderless, two California Democrats urged their leaders to name a chair so the panel can begin scrutinizing how the Trump administration is distributing the money. The Democrats, Senator Kamala Harris and Representative Katie Porter, wrote a letter to Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senator Mitch McConnell, the majority leader, asking for an update on the long-stalled process of appointing a fifth member of the Coronavirus Oversight Commission to serve as its chair.
Global RoundupGlobal Roundup
Even as virus cases mount, leaders across the world — particularly in developing countries — say they cannot sustain punishing lockdowns without risking economic catastrophe. In India, Mexico, Russia, Iran and Pakistan, among other countries, officials say they have had no choice but to prioritize the economy and relax lockdowns.Even as virus cases mount, leaders across the world — particularly in developing countries — say they cannot sustain punishing lockdowns without risking economic catastrophe. In India, Mexico, Russia, Iran and Pakistan, among other countries, officials say they have had no choice but to prioritize the economy and relax lockdowns.
A glimpse from the streets reveals a sharp rise in person-to-person contact in recent days even as the World Health Organization is warning that daily infections from this highly contagious virus are reaching new peaks.A glimpse from the streets reveals a sharp rise in person-to-person contact in recent days even as the World Health Organization is warning that daily infections from this highly contagious virus are reaching new peaks.
India is now reporting more new daily infections, around 10,000, than all but two countries: the United States and Brazil. New Delhi and Mumbai, the two biggest cities, are overloaded with infections, and experts said the peak was several weeks away. Government officials have proposed commandeering some of New Delhi’s fanciest hotels to turn into hospitals.India is now reporting more new daily infections, around 10,000, than all but two countries: the United States and Brazil. New Delhi and Mumbai, the two biggest cities, are overloaded with infections, and experts said the peak was several weeks away. Government officials have proposed commandeering some of New Delhi’s fanciest hotels to turn into hospitals.
In Mexico, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador kicked off the reopening in early June with a tour of the country. “We have to head toward the new normality, because the national economy and the well-being of the people depends on it,” he said during a stop in Cancún.In Mexico, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador kicked off the reopening in early June with a tour of the country. “We have to head toward the new normality, because the national economy and the well-being of the people depends on it,” he said during a stop in Cancún.
Health experts say Pakistan will soon be overwhelmed with cases, but it has relaxed restrictions. Outside the cities, almost no one is trying to socially distance, and testing remains scarce. Prime Minister Imran Khan wrote on Twitter in April, “We sought a total lockdown without thinking about the consequences for the daily wage earners, the street vendors, the laborers, all of whom face poverty and hunger.”Health experts say Pakistan will soon be overwhelmed with cases, but it has relaxed restrictions. Outside the cities, almost no one is trying to socially distance, and testing remains scarce. Prime Minister Imran Khan wrote on Twitter in April, “We sought a total lockdown without thinking about the consequences for the daily wage earners, the street vendors, the laborers, all of whom face poverty and hunger.”
Iran decided to open up last month in an attempt to salvage its economy, which was already suffering under international sanctions and huge budget deficits. Iran’s leaders said the pandemic was a reality that Iranians had to learn to live with. Now a second surge of infections has arrived.Iran decided to open up last month in an attempt to salvage its economy, which was already suffering under international sanctions and huge budget deficits. Iran’s leaders said the pandemic was a reality that Iranians had to learn to live with. Now a second surge of infections has arrived.
The number of new infections in Russia has hovered around 8,000 to 9,000 each day. But the mayor of Moscow, a hot spot that had been under a strict lockdown, lifted many restrictions this week. Analysts said the reopening was partly aimed at ensuring high turnout for a July 1 vote on an amendment to extend President Vladimir V. Putin’s rule.The number of new infections in Russia has hovered around 8,000 to 9,000 each day. But the mayor of Moscow, a hot spot that had been under a strict lockdown, lifted many restrictions this week. Analysts said the reopening was partly aimed at ensuring high turnout for a July 1 vote on an amendment to extend President Vladimir V. Putin’s rule.
Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the top infectious disease expert in the United States, warned on Wednesday that the protests sweeping the nation could lead to an increase in infections. He added that it was not enough that many people marching against police violence were wearing masks.Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the top infectious disease expert in the United States, warned on Wednesday that the protests sweeping the nation could lead to an increase in infections. He added that it was not enough that many people marching against police violence were wearing masks.
“Masks can help, but it’s masks plus physical separation, and when you get congregations like we saw with the demonstrations, like we have said — myself and other health officials — that’s taking a risk,” Dr. Fauci said on the ABC program “Good Morning America.” “Unfortunately, what we’re seeing now is just an example of the kinds of things we were concerned about.”“Masks can help, but it’s masks plus physical separation, and when you get congregations like we saw with the demonstrations, like we have said — myself and other health officials — that’s taking a risk,” Dr. Fauci said on the ABC program “Good Morning America.” “Unfortunately, what we’re seeing now is just an example of the kinds of things we were concerned about.”
Dr. Fauci said a report that members of the District of Columbia National Guard had become infected after the protests “is certainly disturbing but is not surprising.”Dr. Fauci said a report that members of the District of Columbia National Guard had become infected after the protests “is certainly disturbing but is not surprising.”
The host, Robin Roberts, later said, “People are very passionate about what they’re fighting for, and it’s very evident that they feel it’s worth the possible risk.”The host, Robin Roberts, later said, “People are very passionate about what they’re fighting for, and it’s very evident that they feel it’s worth the possible risk.”
A group of more than 1,000 people working in health and medicine have recently argued that the protests were “vital” to public health as the longtime discrimination of black Americans was itself a public health crisis. Some protesters have said they weighed the health risks against the need to protest and decided the movement against police brutality and racism was worth the risk.A group of more than 1,000 people working in health and medicine have recently argued that the protests were “vital” to public health as the longtime discrimination of black Americans was itself a public health crisis. Some protesters have said they weighed the health risks against the need to protest and decided the movement against police brutality and racism was worth the risk.
In California, Jarrion Harris, 32, wore a cloth mask for a march in Hollywood on Sunday.In California, Jarrion Harris, 32, wore a cloth mask for a march in Hollywood on Sunday.
“I’m definitely not out here because I think Covid-19 has gone into the shadows,” he said. “It’s worth the risk.”“I’m definitely not out here because I think Covid-19 has gone into the shadows,” he said. “It’s worth the risk.”
At least 15 cases nationally have been linked to protests, including five National Guard members and one police officer in Nebraska. Health officials in Parsons, Kan., and Stevens Point, Wis., on Tuesday also announced new cases involving people who had attended protests.At least 15 cases nationally have been linked to protests, including five National Guard members and one police officer in Nebraska. Health officials in Parsons, Kan., and Stevens Point, Wis., on Tuesday also announced new cases involving people who had attended protests.
The elections held around the United States during the pandemic have revealed a mixed picture as different states experienced huge increases in voting by mail.The elections held around the United States during the pandemic have revealed a mixed picture as different states experienced huge increases in voting by mail.
The good news: The rapid expansion of voting by mail over the last few months allowed millions of people to vote without risking their health. Turnout in the 15 states that have held elections, and Washington, D.C., was high, and in some cases at near-record levels, even after former Vice President Joseph R. Biden had all but secured the Democratic presidential nomination.The good news: The rapid expansion of voting by mail over the last few months allowed millions of people to vote without risking their health. Turnout in the 15 states that have held elections, and Washington, D.C., was high, and in some cases at near-record levels, even after former Vice President Joseph R. Biden had all but secured the Democratic presidential nomination.
The bad news: A host of infrastructure and logistical issues might have cost thousands of Americans their opportunities to vote. There have been complaints of ballots lost in the mail; of some ballots printed on the wrong paper, with the wrong date or the wrong language; and of some that arrived late or not at all.The bad news: A host of infrastructure and logistical issues might have cost thousands of Americans their opportunities to vote. There have been complaints of ballots lost in the mail; of some ballots printed on the wrong paper, with the wrong date or the wrong language; and of some that arrived late or not at all.
Absent from any reported issues in the states, however, were indications of widespread fraud. Mr. Trump has repeatedly made false arguments suggesting that voting by mail was riddled with fraud.Absent from any reported issues in the states, however, were indications of widespread fraud. Mr. Trump has repeatedly made false arguments suggesting that voting by mail was riddled with fraud.
But the most definitive lesson for the election in November may be what many have already begun to accept — there’s a strong possibility that many states, including key battlegrounds, will not finish counting ballots on election night.But the most definitive lesson for the election in November may be what many have already begun to accept — there’s a strong possibility that many states, including key battlegrounds, will not finish counting ballots on election night.
Georgia’s election this week was perhaps the nadir, with a full-scale meltdown of new voting systems, a shortage of poll workers that some officials attributed to fears about the virus and also some glitches with the state’s rapid expansion of voting by mail.Georgia’s election this week was perhaps the nadir, with a full-scale meltdown of new voting systems, a shortage of poll workers that some officials attributed to fears about the virus and also some glitches with the state’s rapid expansion of voting by mail.
The vast expansion of vote-by-mail and absentee ballots was not enough to offset the drastic reduction in polling locations that has occurred in many states. In cities around the country, including Atlanta, Baltimore, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., voters waited in lines for hours, even as those cities experienced exponential increases in voting by mail.The vast expansion of vote-by-mail and absentee ballots was not enough to offset the drastic reduction in polling locations that has occurred in many states. In cities around the country, including Atlanta, Baltimore, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., voters waited in lines for hours, even as those cities experienced exponential increases in voting by mail.
The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, the marquee pop extravaganza that was postponed in March as the pandemic led to shutdowns across the United States, is officially canceled for the year.The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, the marquee pop extravaganza that was postponed in March as the pandemic led to shutdowns across the United States, is officially canceled for the year.
Dr. Cameron Kaiser, the public health officer for Riverside County, Calif., called off the weekend-long concert series on Wednesday and also canceled Stagecoach, a country music festival that, like Coachella, is held annually at the Empire Polo Club in Indio. Both events were originally scheduled for April before being pushed to October as the entire live-music industry paused.Dr. Cameron Kaiser, the public health officer for Riverside County, Calif., called off the weekend-long concert series on Wednesday and also canceled Stagecoach, a country music festival that, like Coachella, is held annually at the Empire Polo Club in Indio. Both events were originally scheduled for April before being pushed to October as the entire live-music industry paused.
“I am concerned as indications grow that Covid-19 could worsen in the fall,” Kaiser said in a statement on Wednesday announcing the cancellations.“I am concerned as indications grow that Covid-19 could worsen in the fall,” Kaiser said in a statement on Wednesday announcing the cancellations.
The concert industry has been essentially frozen since mid-March, when AEG Presents and Live Nation, the corporations that dominate the live-music sphere, suspended all touring in North America in response to the coronavirus pandemic, leaving artists — as well as their crews and all other affiliated workers — unsure of when such large-scale events will return. Other major music festivals, including Lollapalooza in Chicago, Levitation in Austin, Texas, and Summerfest in Milwaukee, have also been called off for the year.The concert industry has been essentially frozen since mid-March, when AEG Presents and Live Nation, the corporations that dominate the live-music sphere, suspended all touring in North America in response to the coronavirus pandemic, leaving artists — as well as their crews and all other affiliated workers — unsure of when such large-scale events will return. Other major music festivals, including Lollapalooza in Chicago, Levitation in Austin, Texas, and Summerfest in Milwaukee, have also been called off for the year.
The announcement came while many places eased restrictions tied to the virus and made plans to reopen — including the Disneyland Resort in California — even as the U.S. surpassed two million coronavirus cases and saw rising rates of infection in 21 states.The announcement came while many places eased restrictions tied to the virus and made plans to reopen — including the Disneyland Resort in California — even as the U.S. surpassed two million coronavirus cases and saw rising rates of infection in 21 states.
With thousands of nonprofits fighting for their survival amid the downturn spurred the pandemic, the Ford Foundation plans to announce on Thursday that it will borrow $1 billion so that it can drastically increase the amount of money it distributes.With thousands of nonprofits fighting for their survival amid the downturn spurred the pandemic, the Ford Foundation plans to announce on Thursday that it will borrow $1 billion so that it can drastically increase the amount of money it distributes.
To raise the money, the foundation — one of the country’s oldest charitable organizations — is preparing to issue a combination of 30- and 50-year bonds, a financial maneuver common among governments and companies but extremely rare among nonprofits.To raise the money, the foundation — one of the country’s oldest charitable organizations — is preparing to issue a combination of 30- and 50-year bonds, a financial maneuver common among governments and companies but extremely rare among nonprofits.
“For most foundations, the idea of taking on debt is outside of normative thinking,” Darren Walker, the president of the Ford Foundation, wrote in a letter last month to Ford’s board. “Covid-19 has created unprecedented challenges that require foundations to consider ideas — even radical ones that would have never been considered in the past.”“For most foundations, the idea of taking on debt is outside of normative thinking,” Darren Walker, the president of the Ford Foundation, wrote in a letter last month to Ford’s board. “Covid-19 has created unprecedented challenges that require foundations to consider ideas — even radical ones that would have never been considered in the past.”
Updated August 17, 2020 Updated August 24, 2020
Four other leading charitable foundations — the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, and the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation — will pledge on Thursday that they will join with Ford and increase their giving by at least $725 million.Four other leading charitable foundations — the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, and the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation — will pledge on Thursday that they will join with Ford and increase their giving by at least $725 million.
The decision by the five influential foundations — major sponsors of social justice organizations, museums and the arts and environmental causes — could shatter the charitable world’s deeply entrenched tradition of fiscal restraint during periods of economic hardship.The decision by the five influential foundations — major sponsors of social justice organizations, museums and the arts and environmental causes — could shatter the charitable world’s deeply entrenched tradition of fiscal restraint during periods of economic hardship.
New York RoundupNew York Roundup
Subway cars lurched through a system eerily devoid of stray plastic bags, unidentifiable liquids and, notably, people. In stations, the loop of prerecorded announcements that seep into New York City’s collective subconscious (“Stand clear of the closing doors, please”) offered a new message to riders: “Please, do your part to reduce crowding.”Subway cars lurched through a system eerily devoid of stray plastic bags, unidentifiable liquids and, notably, people. In stations, the loop of prerecorded announcements that seep into New York City’s collective subconscious (“Stand clear of the closing doors, please”) offered a new message to riders: “Please, do your part to reduce crowding.”
The pandemic drained more than 90 percent of the subway’s usual ridership and transit officials remain uncertain whether all 5.5 million weekday riders will ever return.The pandemic drained more than 90 percent of the subway’s usual ridership and transit officials remain uncertain whether all 5.5 million weekday riders will ever return.
Now the ability of the subway to regain riders’ confidence will play a crucial role in the city’s recovery. In the interim, though, the subway’s transformation serves as a vivid reminder of the outbreak’s aftershocks.Now the ability of the subway to regain riders’ confidence will play a crucial role in the city’s recovery. In the interim, though, the subway’s transformation serves as a vivid reminder of the outbreak’s aftershocks.
“All my life, I’ve never seen it like this,” Melody Johnson, a nurse who lives in Brooklyn, said while riding an uptown No. 2 train one recent morning. “Look around — we’re empty.”“All my life, I’ve never seen it like this,” Melody Johnson, a nurse who lives in Brooklyn, said while riding an uptown No. 2 train one recent morning. “Look around — we’re empty.”
After hitting a low of 7 percent of the usual passenger load in April, ridership levels have recently crept up to around 15 percent. On Monday, as the city started reopening, around 113,000 more riders rode the subway compared with the same day the previous week, officials said.After hitting a low of 7 percent of the usual passenger load in April, ridership levels have recently crept up to around 15 percent. On Monday, as the city started reopening, around 113,000 more riders rode the subway compared with the same day the previous week, officials said.
Here’s a look at other developments:Here’s a look at other developments:
Statewide, there were an additional 53 virus-related deaths.Statewide, there were an additional 53 virus-related deaths.
At the governor’s daily briefing on Wednesday, one of his aides said the state would soon issue guidance for municipalities about how and whether to reopen public pools.At the governor’s daily briefing on Wednesday, one of his aides said the state would soon issue guidance for municipalities about how and whether to reopen public pools.
New York City’s mayor said Wednesday that he would like 50,000 residents to be tested for the virus each day; the city had reached a high of 33,000.New York City’s mayor said Wednesday that he would like 50,000 residents to be tested for the virus each day; the city had reached a high of 33,000.
The New York Philharmonic announced that it was canceling its fall season and would not perform until Jan. 6, 2021, at the earliest.The New York Philharmonic announced that it was canceling its fall season and would not perform until Jan. 6, 2021, at the earliest.
Early this spring at Brooklyn Hospital Center, a cheering section would materialize outside every evening as 7 p.m. and exhausted hospital workers would come out at the end of their shifts to soak up the love. On Monday night, with the city’s outbreak diminished, the organizers threw a farewell party.Early this spring at Brooklyn Hospital Center, a cheering section would materialize outside every evening as 7 p.m. and exhausted hospital workers would come out at the end of their shifts to soak up the love. On Monday night, with the city’s outbreak diminished, the organizers threw a farewell party.
Without a large federal investment in U.S. public schools, districts hit hard by the virus will struggle to meet the needs of their pupils this fall as they try to reopen their doors, educators told a Senate panel on Wednesday.Without a large federal investment in U.S. public schools, districts hit hard by the virus will struggle to meet the needs of their pupils this fall as they try to reopen their doors, educators told a Senate panel on Wednesday.
In testimony before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, education leaders from around the country said budget challenges were among their chief concerns as they drafted plans to resume in-person classes. That is particularly true for students who have borne the brunt of the economic, educational and racial injustices that have been exacerbated by the pandemic.In testimony before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, education leaders from around the country said budget challenges were among their chief concerns as they drafted plans to resume in-person classes. That is particularly true for students who have borne the brunt of the economic, educational and racial injustices that have been exacerbated by the pandemic.
Across the country, school leaders are beginning to roll out plans to welcome more than 50 million students back, which include procuring 50 million masks; flooding schools with nurses, aides and counselors; and staggering schedules to minimize class size. But the high-dollar demands to meet public health guidelines and make up for setbacks that have disproportionately affected low-income students, students of color and those with disabilities could cripple their budgets.Across the country, school leaders are beginning to roll out plans to welcome more than 50 million students back, which include procuring 50 million masks; flooding schools with nurses, aides and counselors; and staggering schedules to minimize class size. But the high-dollar demands to meet public health guidelines and make up for setbacks that have disproportionately affected low-income students, students of color and those with disabilities could cripple their budgets.
“At a time when our kids and our communities need us most, we are having to make massive cuts,” Susana Cordova, the superintendent of Denver Public Schools, told senators. Additional funding would be essential, she said: “We must double down for those who have been most impacted by the Covid crisis if we are to deliver on the promise of education to create a more equitable society.”“At a time when our kids and our communities need us most, we are having to make massive cuts,” Susana Cordova, the superintendent of Denver Public Schools, told senators. Additional funding would be essential, she said: “We must double down for those who have been most impacted by the Covid crisis if we are to deliver on the promise of education to create a more equitable society.”
For some journalists in Latin America, covering the pandemic has meant putting their lives at risk.For some journalists in Latin America, covering the pandemic has meant putting their lives at risk.
In Peru, the National Journalists Association has identified at least 22 journalists who were believed to have died of Covid-19, including 11 who covered the outbreak, said Zuliana Laínez, its general secretary. Many were freelancers without access to protective equipment, Ms. Laínez said.In Peru, the National Journalists Association has identified at least 22 journalists who were believed to have died of Covid-19, including 11 who covered the outbreak, said Zuliana Laínez, its general secretary. Many were freelancers without access to protective equipment, Ms. Laínez said.
“They did their coverage using homemade masks and working in unsafe conditions,” she said in an interview. “Many feel they are invisible to the eyes of the government.”“They did their coverage using homemade masks and working in unsafe conditions,” she said in an interview. “Many feel they are invisible to the eyes of the government.”
The region is confronting outbreaks rivaling those in Europe at the peak of its crisis, but without robust health and social welfare systems to rely on. At the same time, the devastating economic fallout of lockdowns has spurred layoffs at news organizations, and freelancers have seen gigs dry up. Many journalists have struggled to find adequate protective gear while in the field.The region is confronting outbreaks rivaling those in Europe at the peak of its crisis, but without robust health and social welfare systems to rely on. At the same time, the devastating economic fallout of lockdowns has spurred layoffs at news organizations, and freelancers have seen gigs dry up. Many journalists have struggled to find adequate protective gear while in the field.
In Ecuador, one of the hardest-hit countries, the press freedom organization Fundamedios said that 11 journalists who had symptoms of the virus had died. Many were never tested, said Desirée Yépez, the group’s director of content.In Ecuador, one of the hardest-hit countries, the press freedom organization Fundamedios said that 11 journalists who had symptoms of the virus had died. Many were never tested, said Desirée Yépez, the group’s director of content.
In both countries, journalists have protested firings and demanded delayed payments and other benefits. Ms. Yépez said that many media workers had not received government aid and were struggling.In both countries, journalists have protested firings and demanded delayed payments and other benefits. Ms. Yépez said that many media workers had not received government aid and were struggling.
The pandemic has also raised the specter of new threats to press freedom. A report published in April by Reporters Without Borders concluded that President Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil had stepped up his attacks on the news media, blaming journalists for “hysteria.”The pandemic has also raised the specter of new threats to press freedom. A report published in April by Reporters Without Borders concluded that President Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil had stepped up his attacks on the news media, blaming journalists for “hysteria.”
On May 31, a television station in Guayaquil, the center of Ecuador’s outbreak, was targeted by an assailant who lobbed a stick of dynamite at its entrance. The attack may have been linked to the station’s reporting on corruption linked to sales of protective equipment during the pandemic. The New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists called it “a clear message of intimidation.”On May 31, a television station in Guayaquil, the center of Ecuador’s outbreak, was targeted by an assailant who lobbed a stick of dynamite at its entrance. The attack may have been linked to the station’s reporting on corruption linked to sales of protective equipment during the pandemic. The New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists called it “a clear message of intimidation.”
The government vehicles began appearing in Indonesian towns and cities in May, equipped with loudspeakers blaring a blunt message:The government vehicles began appearing in Indonesian towns and cities in May, equipped with loudspeakers blaring a blunt message:
“You can have sex. You can get married. But don’t get pregnant,” health workers read from a script. “Dads, please control yourself. You can get married. You can have sex as long as you use contraception.”“You can have sex. You can get married. But don’t get pregnant,” health workers read from a script. “Dads, please control yourself. You can get married. You can have sex as long as you use contraception.”
Indonesian officials are worried about a possible unintended consequence of the country’s coronavirus restrictions: a post-pandemic baby boom.Indonesian officials are worried about a possible unintended consequence of the country’s coronavirus restrictions: a post-pandemic baby boom.
In April, as people across Indonesia stayed home, about 10 million married couples stopped using contraception, according to the National Population and Family Planning Agency, which collects data from clinics and hospitals that distribute birth control.In April, as people across Indonesia stayed home, about 10 million married couples stopped using contraception, according to the National Population and Family Planning Agency, which collects data from clinics and hospitals that distribute birth control.
Many women couldn’t get access to contraceptives because their health care provider was closed. Others did not want to risk a visit, for fear of catching the virus. Now, officials are expecting a wave of unplanned births next year, many of them to poor families who were already struggling.Many women couldn’t get access to contraceptives because their health care provider was closed. Others did not want to risk a visit, for fear of catching the virus. Now, officials are expecting a wave of unplanned births next year, many of them to poor families who were already struggling.
“We are nervous about leaving home, not to mention going to the hospital, which is the source of all diseases,” said Lana Mutisari, 36, a married woman in a suburb of Jakarta, the capital, who has been putting off an appointment to get an IUD. “There are all kinds of viruses there.”“We are nervous about leaving home, not to mention going to the hospital, which is the source of all diseases,” said Lana Mutisari, 36, a married woman in a suburb of Jakarta, the capital, who has been putting off an appointment to get an IUD. “There are all kinds of viruses there.”
Hasto Wardoyo, an obstetrician and gynecologist who leads the family planning agency, has estimated that there could be 370,000 to 500,000 extra births early next year, in a country that typically sees about 4.8 million a year.Hasto Wardoyo, an obstetrician and gynecologist who leads the family planning agency, has estimated that there could be 370,000 to 500,000 extra births early next year, in a country that typically sees about 4.8 million a year.
That would be a setback for Indonesia’s extensive efforts to promote smaller families, a key aspect of its fight against child malnutrition. Many poor and young married women in Indonesia get free contraceptives, many through hormone shots. But their clinic visits were disrupted by the virus.That would be a setback for Indonesia’s extensive efforts to promote smaller families, a key aspect of its fight against child malnutrition. Many poor and young married women in Indonesia get free contraceptives, many through hormone shots. But their clinic visits were disrupted by the virus.
If you live in a city, you’ve probably seen a lot of discarded face masks lying around on sidewalks. They’re also ending up in the sea.If you live in a city, you’ve probably seen a lot of discarded face masks lying around on sidewalks. They’re also ending up in the sea.
In a posting on Facebook in late May, a French environmentalist said there soon could be “more masks than jellyfish” in the sea.In a posting on Facebook in late May, a French environmentalist said there soon could be “more masks than jellyfish” in the sea.
It’s hard to say how much of that waste comes from hospitals and how much comes from households. But over all, some doctors and hospital managers say, the pandemic has raised awareness of a growing medical waste problem in the United States and exposed an urgent need to make the system more sustainable.It’s hard to say how much of that waste comes from hospitals and how much comes from households. But over all, some doctors and hospital managers say, the pandemic has raised awareness of a growing medical waste problem in the United States and exposed an urgent need to make the system more sustainable.
Currently, the country’s health care system generates roughly 30 pounds of waste per hospital bed every day and accounts for about 10 percent of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions.Currently, the country’s health care system generates roughly 30 pounds of waste per hospital bed every day and accounts for about 10 percent of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions.
That’s because in the last decade or so, hospitals have increasingly favored equipment intended for single use.That’s because in the last decade or so, hospitals have increasingly favored equipment intended for single use.
Reporting was contributed by Reed Abelson, Manuela Andreoni, Luke Broadwater, Lauretta Charlton, Choe Sang-Hun, Michael Cooper, Nick Corasaniti, Jonathan Corum, Stacy Cowley, Abdi Latif Dahir, Shaila Dewan, Farnaz Fassihi, Luis Ferré-Sadurní, Sheri Fink, Jeffrey Gettleman, Christina Goldbaum, Maggie Haberman, Andrew Higgins, Josh Katz, David D. Kirkpatrick, Hari Kumar, José María León Cabrera, Nicholas Kulish, Iliana Magra, Salman Masood, Allison McCann, Brent McDonald, Andy Newman, Aimee Ortiz, Richard C. Paddock, Alan Rappeport, Tatiana Schlossberg, Christopher F. Schuetze, Dera Menra Sijibat, Natasha Singer, Jeanna Smialek, Mitch Smith, Kaly Soto, Matt Stevens, James B. Stewart, Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Eileen Sullivan, Billie Sweeney, Shalini Venugopal, Noah Weiland, Michael Wines, Jin Wu, Carl Zimmer and Karen Zraick.Reporting was contributed by Reed Abelson, Manuela Andreoni, Luke Broadwater, Lauretta Charlton, Choe Sang-Hun, Michael Cooper, Nick Corasaniti, Jonathan Corum, Stacy Cowley, Abdi Latif Dahir, Shaila Dewan, Farnaz Fassihi, Luis Ferré-Sadurní, Sheri Fink, Jeffrey Gettleman, Christina Goldbaum, Maggie Haberman, Andrew Higgins, Josh Katz, David D. Kirkpatrick, Hari Kumar, José María León Cabrera, Nicholas Kulish, Iliana Magra, Salman Masood, Allison McCann, Brent McDonald, Andy Newman, Aimee Ortiz, Richard C. Paddock, Alan Rappeport, Tatiana Schlossberg, Christopher F. Schuetze, Dera Menra Sijibat, Natasha Singer, Jeanna Smialek, Mitch Smith, Kaly Soto, Matt Stevens, James B. Stewart, Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Eileen Sullivan, Billie Sweeney, Shalini Venugopal, Noah Weiland, Michael Wines, Jin Wu, Carl Zimmer and Karen Zraick.