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Coronavirus Live Updates: Cases in the U.S. Grow to Their Highest Levels Since April Coronavirus Live Updates: Cases in the U.S. Grow to Their Highest Levels Since April
(32 minutes later)
Key Data of the DayKey Data of the Day
More than 35,000 new coronavirus cases were identified across the United States on Tuesday, according to a New York Times database, the highest single-day total since late April and the third-highest total of any day of the pandemic.More than 35,000 new coronavirus cases were identified across the United States on Tuesday, according to a New York Times database, the highest single-day total since late April and the third-highest total of any day of the pandemic.
As the United States continues to reopen its economy, case numbers are rising in more than 20 states, mostly in the South and West. Florida on Wednesday reported a new daily high of 5,508 cases. Texas reported more than 5,000 cases on Tuesday, its largest single-day total yet. Arizona added more than 3,600 cases, also a record. And in Washington State, where case numbers are again trending upward, the governor said residents would have to start wearing masks in public. As the United States continues to reopen its economy, case numbers are rising in more than 20 states, mostly in the South and West. Florida on Wednesday reported a new daily high of 5,508 cases. Texas reported more than 5,000 cases on Tuesday, its largest single-day total yet. Arizona added more than 3,600 cases, also a record.
“This is about saving lives,” said Gov. Jay Inslee, a Democrat. “It’s about reopening our businesses. And it’s about showing respect and care for one another.” In Washington State, where case numbers are again trending upward, the governor said residents would have to start wearing masks in public. “This is about saving lives,” said Gov. Jay Inslee, a Democrat. “It’s about reopening our businesses. And it’s about showing respect and care for one another.”
In Florida on Wednesday, Gov. Ron DeSantis gave no indication that the state would roll back its economic opening, but he urged residents to avoid closed spaces with poor ventilation, crowds and close contact with others.
Mr. DeSantis, a Republican, continued to attribute the rising infections to younger people, especially in cities, who have started to socialize in bars and homes, in spite of rules in many municipalities prohibiting group gatherings.
He pressed older people to keep staying home as much as possible, and pleaded with young people to be responsible.
“You need to do your part and make sure that you’re not spreading it to people who are going to be more at risk for this,” he said.
The elevated case numbers are a result of worsening conditions across much of the country as well as increased testing, but testing alone does not explain the surge. The percentage of people in Florida testing positive has risen sharply. Increases in hospitalizations also signal the virus’s spread.The elevated case numbers are a result of worsening conditions across much of the country as well as increased testing, but testing alone does not explain the surge. The percentage of people in Florida testing positive has risen sharply. Increases in hospitalizations also signal the virus’s spread.
Arizona reported on Monday its highest number of virus hospitalizations, as did North Carolina on Tuesday, prompting its governor, Roy Cooper, to announce that the state would pause reopening for three weeks and require face masks. In Texas, more than 4,000 people with the virus are hospitalized, more than double the number at the beginning of June. Arizona reported on Monday its highest number of virus hospitalizations, as did North Carolina on Tuesday, prompting its governor, Roy Cooper, to announce on Wednesday that the state would pause reopening for three weeks and require face masks. In Texas, more than 4,000 people with the virus are hospitalized, more than double the number at the beginning of June.
“I strongly feel we are moving in the wrong direction and we are moving fast,” Mayor Sylvester Turner of Houston said.“I strongly feel we are moving in the wrong direction and we are moving fast,” Mayor Sylvester Turner of Houston said.
But in Missouri, where new case reports have reached their highest levels in recent days, coronavirus hospitalizations have declined slightly over the last month.But in Missouri, where new case reports have reached their highest levels in recent days, coronavirus hospitalizations have declined slightly over the last month.
“We are NOT overwhelmed,” Gov. Mike Parson, a Republican, said on Twitter, linking the uptick to more testing. “We are NOT currently experiencing a second wave. We have NO intentions of closing Missouri back down at this point in time.”“We are NOT overwhelmed,” Gov. Mike Parson, a Republican, said on Twitter, linking the uptick to more testing. “We are NOT currently experiencing a second wave. We have NO intentions of closing Missouri back down at this point in time.”
The World Health Organization warned on Wednesday that if governments and communities in the Americas are not able to stop the spread of the virus through surveillance, isolation of cases and quarantine of contacts, there may be a need to impose — or reimpose — general lockdowns.The World Health Organization warned on Wednesday that if governments and communities in the Americas are not able to stop the spread of the virus through surveillance, isolation of cases and quarantine of contacts, there may be a need to impose — or reimpose — general lockdowns.
“It is very difficult to take the sting out of this pandemic unless we are able to successfully isolate cases and quarantine contacts,” said Dr. Michael Ryan, the executive director of the W.H.O. health emergencies program. “In the absence of a capacity to do that, then the specter of further lockdowns cannot be excluded.”“It is very difficult to take the sting out of this pandemic unless we are able to successfully isolate cases and quarantine contacts,” said Dr. Michael Ryan, the executive director of the W.H.O. health emergencies program. “In the absence of a capacity to do that, then the specter of further lockdowns cannot be excluded.”
He said that the growing number of coronavirus cases in the Americas has not peaked and the region is likely to see sustained number of cases and deaths in the coming weeks.He said that the growing number of coronavirus cases in the Americas has not peaked and the region is likely to see sustained number of cases and deaths in the coming weeks.
With cases surging in the Houston area, the city’s intensive-care units are now filled to 97 percent of capacity, Mayor Sylvester Turner told the City Council on Wednesday, with Covid-19 patients accounting for more than one-quarter of all patients in intensive care.With cases surging in the Houston area, the city’s intensive-care units are now filled to 97 percent of capacity, Mayor Sylvester Turner told the City Council on Wednesday, with Covid-19 patients accounting for more than one-quarter of all patients in intensive care.
The city, known for its large concentration of medical schools and research hospitals, could run out of I.C.U. beds completely within two weeks if nothing is done to slow the upward trajectory of the virus, said Dr. Peter Jay Hotez, dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine. He called on the state to reimpose more aggressive social distancing restrictions.The city, known for its large concentration of medical schools and research hospitals, could run out of I.C.U. beds completely within two weeks if nothing is done to slow the upward trajectory of the virus, said Dr. Peter Jay Hotez, dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine. He called on the state to reimpose more aggressive social distancing restrictions.
Dr. Hotez said that hospitalizations are rising along with the case counts, so the data is not just the result of increased testing. “That means we have to act this week,” Dr. Hotez said.Dr. Hotez said that hospitalizations are rising along with the case counts, so the data is not just the result of increased testing. “That means we have to act this week,” Dr. Hotez said.
After Texas reported another daily record on Tuesday of more than 5,000 new infections — 944 of them from Houston — Gov. Greg Abbott urged residents to stay home if they can. The figures were no better on Wednesday, when the governor said in a television interview that more than 5,000 more people had tested positive and more than 4,000 were hospitalized. There is a “massive outbreak of Covid-19 across the state of Texas today,” Governor Abbott said.After Texas reported another daily record on Tuesday of more than 5,000 new infections — 944 of them from Houston — Gov. Greg Abbott urged residents to stay home if they can. The figures were no better on Wednesday, when the governor said in a television interview that more than 5,000 more people had tested positive and more than 4,000 were hospitalized. There is a “massive outbreak of Covid-19 across the state of Texas today,” Governor Abbott said.
“Let’s start dialing back the opening,” Dr. Hotez said about the state. “There needs to be a recognition that the masks alone are not going to cut it.”“Let’s start dialing back the opening,” Dr. Hotez said about the state. “There needs to be a recognition that the masks alone are not going to cut it.”
On Wednesday, Apple said it closed seven of its stores in the Houston area, because of rising cases in the region. The move on Wednesday followed its closure of 11 stores in Arizona, Florida, South Carolina and North Carolina because of the virus.On Wednesday, Apple said it closed seven of its stores in the Houston area, because of rising cases in the region. The move on Wednesday followed its closure of 11 stores in Arizona, Florida, South Carolina and North Carolina because of the virus.
N.Y. ROUNDUPN.Y. ROUNDUP
Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo announced on Wednesday that New York will begin requiring certain out-of-state travelers entering the state to quarantine for two weeks upon arrival.Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo announced on Wednesday that New York will begin requiring certain out-of-state travelers entering the state to quarantine for two weeks upon arrival.
The restrictions will be based on specific health metrics related to the virus, he said at a news conference.The restrictions will be based on specific health metrics related to the virus, he said at a news conference.
The governor said the quarantine would apply to travelers arriving from states — as well as New Yorkers returning from those states — where either 10 percent of the total population tested positive, or where there were 10 infections per every 100,000 residents on a seven-day rolling average.The governor said the quarantine would apply to travelers arriving from states — as well as New Yorkers returning from those states — where either 10 percent of the total population tested positive, or where there were 10 infections per every 100,000 residents on a seven-day rolling average.
“Any state that has an infection rate above that will be subject to the quarantine,” he said.“Any state that has an infection rate above that will be subject to the quarantine,” he said.
Nine states will be included, Mr. Cuomo said, when the restrictions take effect at midnight: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Utah, Texas and Washington State.Nine states will be included, Mr. Cuomo said, when the restrictions take effect at midnight: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Utah, Texas and Washington State.
In New York, those found to be violating the quarantine could be subject to a judicial order that could include mandatory quarantine and fines of up to $10,000. Mr. Cuomo also said that officials would not be stopping people at state borders to forbid them to enter, but that travelers were being asked to comply once they arrived.In New York, those found to be violating the quarantine could be subject to a judicial order that could include mandatory quarantine and fines of up to $10,000. Mr. Cuomo also said that officials would not be stopping people at state borders to forbid them to enter, but that travelers were being asked to comply once they arrived.
Travelers to New Jersey and Connecticut would also be told to quarantine; their governors appeared with Mr. Cuomo to announce a tristate “joint travel advisory.” But officials from both states said there was no enforcement mechanism at the moment.Travelers to New Jersey and Connecticut would also be told to quarantine; their governors appeared with Mr. Cuomo to announce a tristate “joint travel advisory.” But officials from both states said there was no enforcement mechanism at the moment.
The move punctuated a stark shift in the course of the nation’s outbreak. For months, the state, particularly New York City, had been a global center of the pandemic. Hospitals filled to near capacity. Hundreds died each day, reaching a peak in mid-April. Mr. Cuomo said Wednesday there were an additional 17 deaths.The move punctuated a stark shift in the course of the nation’s outbreak. For months, the state, particularly New York City, had been a global center of the pandemic. Hospitals filled to near capacity. Hundreds died each day, reaching a peak in mid-April. Mr. Cuomo said Wednesday there were an additional 17 deaths.
Many New Yorkers with the means to do so fled, often to out-of-state locales. By late March, Florida began requiring travelers from the New York area to quarantine. Other states sought to restrict visitors. Researchers later found that by March, New York City had been seeding outbreaks around the country.Many New Yorkers with the means to do so fled, often to out-of-state locales. By late March, Florida began requiring travelers from the New York area to quarantine. Other states sought to restrict visitors. Researchers later found that by March, New York City had been seeding outbreaks around the country.
Only a handful of states, including Maine, Rhode Island and Hawaii, have required out-of-state travelers to quarantine. A larger number have asked travelers to quarantine without mandating it. And a few, such as Florida and Kansas, apply the requirement only to those coming from certain states.Only a handful of states, including Maine, Rhode Island and Hawaii, have required out-of-state travelers to quarantine. A larger number have asked travelers to quarantine without mandating it. And a few, such as Florida and Kansas, apply the requirement only to those coming from certain states.
New York’s quarantine will not apply to Yankees and Mets players returning to the area to complete spring training, which can begin on July 1, Mr. Cuomo said, adding that the state has been working on separate protocols for them.New York’s quarantine will not apply to Yankees and Mets players returning to the area to complete spring training, which can begin on July 1, Mr. Cuomo said, adding that the state has been working on separate protocols for them.
Elsewhere in New York:Elsewhere in New York:
With the pandemic siphoning as much as $9 billion in tax revenue from New York City, Mayor Bill de Blasio and other top officials said Wednesday that the city might have to lay off or furlough 22,000 municipal workers this fall and make sweeping cuts in infrastructure spending.With the pandemic siphoning as much as $9 billion in tax revenue from New York City, Mayor Bill de Blasio and other top officials said Wednesday that the city might have to lay off or furlough 22,000 municipal workers this fall and make sweeping cuts in infrastructure spending.
The New York City Marathon has been canceled this year. City officials and organizers decided holding the race, the world’s largest marathon, would be too risky.The New York City Marathon has been canceled this year. City officials and organizers decided holding the race, the world’s largest marathon, would be too risky.
The mayor said that New York City will close 23 more miles of streets to car traffic to provide more outdoor space while social distancing rules remain in place. The city’s beaches will also be open for swimming and recreation on July 1 — social distancing will still be required.The mayor said that New York City will close 23 more miles of streets to car traffic to provide more outdoor space while social distancing rules remain in place. The city’s beaches will also be open for swimming and recreation on July 1 — social distancing will still be required.
Five upstate regions are set to enter Phase 4, the final phase of the state’s reopening plan, on Friday, Mr. Cuomo said. Indoor gatherings of up to 50 people will be allowed, and some and entertainment venues can open. Malls, movie theaters and gyms must remain closed.Five upstate regions are set to enter Phase 4, the final phase of the state’s reopening plan, on Friday, Mr. Cuomo said. Indoor gatherings of up to 50 people will be allowed, and some and entertainment venues can open. Malls, movie theaters and gyms must remain closed.
New Jersey officials said on Wednesday that bowling alleys, museums, arcades, aquariums, batting cages, shooting ranges and libraries may reopen at 25 percent capacity on July 2. Gyms stay closed though individual appointments with trainers can be scheduled, said the governor, who reported 48 more deaths on Wednesday.New Jersey officials said on Wednesday that bowling alleys, museums, arcades, aquariums, batting cages, shooting ranges and libraries may reopen at 25 percent capacity on July 2. Gyms stay closed though individual appointments with trainers can be scheduled, said the governor, who reported 48 more deaths on Wednesday.
The International Monetary Fund warned on Wednesday that the global economy faces an even deeper downturn than it previously projected as the coronavirus pandemic continues to sow uncertainty and businesses around the world struggle to shake off the virus.The International Monetary Fund warned on Wednesday that the global economy faces an even deeper downturn than it previously projected as the coronavirus pandemic continues to sow uncertainty and businesses around the world struggle to shake off the virus.
The forecast underscores the scale of the task that policymakers are facing as they try to dig out from what the I.M.F. has described as the most severe economic contraction since the Great Depression. Even as countries begin reopening their economies, it is increasingly evident that the recovery will be uneven and protracted, particularly until the virus dissipates or a vaccine becomes available.The forecast underscores the scale of the task that policymakers are facing as they try to dig out from what the I.M.F. has described as the most severe economic contraction since the Great Depression. Even as countries begin reopening their economies, it is increasingly evident that the recovery will be uneven and protracted, particularly until the virus dissipates or a vaccine becomes available.
In an update to its World Economic Outlook, the I.M.F. said it expected the global economy to shrink 4.9 percent this year — a sharper contraction than the 3 percent it predicted in April. The fund noted that, even as businesses began to reopen, voluntary social distancing and enhanced workplace safety standards were weighing on economic activity. Moreover, the “scarring” of the labor force from mass job cuts and business closures means that the world economy will recover much more slowly, with the I.M.F. projecting 5.4 percent global growth in 2021, far below its pre-pandemic projections.In an update to its World Economic Outlook, the I.M.F. said it expected the global economy to shrink 4.9 percent this year — a sharper contraction than the 3 percent it predicted in April. The fund noted that, even as businesses began to reopen, voluntary social distancing and enhanced workplace safety standards were weighing on economic activity. Moreover, the “scarring” of the labor force from mass job cuts and business closures means that the world economy will recover much more slowly, with the I.M.F. projecting 5.4 percent global growth in 2021, far below its pre-pandemic projections.
The I.M.F. now projects that the U.S. economy will shrink 8 percent this year before expanding 4.5 percent next year. Economies in the eurozone are projected to shrink 10.2 percent this year and expand 6 percent next year. The economy of China, where the virus originated and which imposed draconian containment measures, is expected to expand 1 percent this year and 8.2 percent in 2021.The I.M.F. now projects that the U.S. economy will shrink 8 percent this year before expanding 4.5 percent next year. Economies in the eurozone are projected to shrink 10.2 percent this year and expand 6 percent next year. The economy of China, where the virus originated and which imposed draconian containment measures, is expected to expand 1 percent this year and 8.2 percent in 2021.
In the markets on Wednesday, the S&P 500 fell more than 2 percent by midafternoon, erasing gains from earlier in the week, as investors confronted new signs of the pandemic’s persistence. Shares of retailers, airlines and cruise companies — which are proxies for sentiment about the prospects of a recovery — are faring poorly. Nervousness about the economic outlook was evident in oil prices, and shares of energy companies also declined.In the markets on Wednesday, the S&P 500 fell more than 2 percent by midafternoon, erasing gains from earlier in the week, as investors confronted new signs of the pandemic’s persistence. Shares of retailers, airlines and cruise companies — which are proxies for sentiment about the prospects of a recovery — are faring poorly. Nervousness about the economic outlook was evident in oil prices, and shares of energy companies also declined.
China is testing restaurant workers and delivery drivers block by block. South Korea tells people to carry two types of masks for differing social situations. Germany requires communities to crack down when the number of infections hits certain thresholds.China is testing restaurant workers and delivery drivers block by block. South Korea tells people to carry two types of masks for differing social situations. Germany requires communities to crack down when the number of infections hits certain thresholds.
Around the world, governments that appeared to have tamed the virus are adjusting to the reality that the disease is here to stay. But in a shift away from nationwide lockdowns that damage the economy, they are looking for targeted ways to find and stop outbreaks before they become third or fourth waves.Around the world, governments that appeared to have tamed the virus are adjusting to the reality that the disease is here to stay. But in a shift away from nationwide lockdowns that damage the economy, they are looking for targeted ways to find and stop outbreaks before they become third or fourth waves.
While the details differ, the strategies call for flexibility or for tightening or easing regulations as needed. They require some mix of intensive testing and monitoring, lightning-fast response times by the authorities, tight border management and constant reminders to their citizens of the dangers of frequent human contact.While the details differ, the strategies call for flexibility or for tightening or easing regulations as needed. They require some mix of intensive testing and monitoring, lightning-fast response times by the authorities, tight border management and constant reminders to their citizens of the dangers of frequent human contact.
The strategies often force central governments and local officials to share data and to work closely together, overcoming incompatible computer systems, turf battles and other longstanding bureaucratic rivalries. Already, in Britain, some local officials say their efforts are not coordinated enough.The strategies often force central governments and local officials to share data and to work closely together, overcoming incompatible computer systems, turf battles and other longstanding bureaucratic rivalries. Already, in Britain, some local officials say their efforts are not coordinated enough.
The shifting strategies are an acknowledgment that even the most successful countries cannot declare victory until a vaccine is found. They also show the challenge facing countries like the United States, Brazil and India, where the authorities never fully contained initial outbreaks and from where the coronavirus will continue to threaten to spread.The shifting strategies are an acknowledgment that even the most successful countries cannot declare victory until a vaccine is found. They also show the challenge facing countries like the United States, Brazil and India, where the authorities never fully contained initial outbreaks and from where the coronavirus will continue to threaten to spread.
“It’s always going to be with us,” said Dr. Simon James Thornley, an epidemiologist from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. “I don’t think we can eliminate the virus long term. We are going to need to learn to live with the virus.”“It’s always going to be with us,” said Dr. Simon James Thornley, an epidemiologist from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. “I don’t think we can eliminate the virus long term. We are going to need to learn to live with the virus.”
Even in places where the coronavirus appeared to be under control, big outbreaks remain a major risk. In Tokyo, there have been 253 new infections in the past week, 83 from a nightlife district. In Gütersloh, in western Germany, more than 1,500 workers from a meat processing plant tested positive, prompting the authorities to shut down the district. South Korea has announced dozens of new infections in recent days.Even in places where the coronavirus appeared to be under control, big outbreaks remain a major risk. In Tokyo, there have been 253 new infections in the past week, 83 from a nightlife district. In Gütersloh, in western Germany, more than 1,500 workers from a meat processing plant tested positive, prompting the authorities to shut down the district. South Korea has announced dozens of new infections in recent days.
In low-income nations, the pandemic may erase 20 years of hard-fought progress against tuberculosis, H.I.V. and malaria, diseases that together claim more than 2.4 million lives each year.In low-income nations, the pandemic may erase 20 years of hard-fought progress against tuberculosis, H.I.V. and malaria, diseases that together claim more than 2.4 million lives each year.
A report released on Wednesday estimates that countries hit hard by these diseases will need at least $28.5 billion over the next year to shore up health campaigns and to respond to the pandemic itself. The figure does not include costs associated with a vaccine, assuming one is found.A report released on Wednesday estimates that countries hit hard by these diseases will need at least $28.5 billion over the next year to shore up health campaigns and to respond to the pandemic itself. The figure does not include costs associated with a vaccine, assuming one is found.
The toll is most severe in nations already strapped for resources. The pandemic has overwhelmed fragile health care systems in those countries, disrupting programs for preventing and treating tuberculosis, H.I.V. and malaria. Restricted air and sea transport also threatens the availability of crucial medicines.The toll is most severe in nations already strapped for resources. The pandemic has overwhelmed fragile health care systems in those countries, disrupting programs for preventing and treating tuberculosis, H.I.V. and malaria. Restricted air and sea transport also threatens the availability of crucial medicines.
Several models produced by the World Health Organization and others project that deaths from these diseases could double as a result. Treatment interruptions also raise the threat of drug resistance, already a formidable problem in many countries.Several models produced by the World Health Organization and others project that deaths from these diseases could double as a result. Treatment interruptions also raise the threat of drug resistance, already a formidable problem in many countries.
“The stakes are extraordinarily high,” Peter Sands, who heads The Global Fund, a public-private partnership that published the estimates, said in a statement. “The knock-on effects of Covid-19 on the fight against H.I.V., T.B. and malaria and other infectious diseases could be catastrophic.”“The stakes are extraordinarily high,” Peter Sands, who heads The Global Fund, a public-private partnership that published the estimates, said in a statement. “The knock-on effects of Covid-19 on the fight against H.I.V., T.B. and malaria and other infectious diseases could be catastrophic.”
Since March, The Global Fund, which works mostly in sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia, has provided $1 billion to help countries maintain their campaigns against these diseases. In the new report, the organization said that amount served only as a stopgap measure.Since March, The Global Fund, which works mostly in sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia, has provided $1 billion to help countries maintain their campaigns against these diseases. In the new report, the organization said that amount served only as a stopgap measure.
The Global Fund estimated that countries would need more than $13 billion to protect front-line health care workers and shore up their health systems, about $9 billion to develop and deploy treatments, and nearly $5 billion for diagnostics.The Global Fund estimated that countries would need more than $13 billion to protect front-line health care workers and shore up their health systems, about $9 billion to develop and deploy treatments, and nearly $5 billion for diagnostics.
A state-run veteran’s home in Massachusetts was “total pandemonium” and a “nightmare” in late March, when a series of blunders contributed to the rapid spread of the virus at the home and the deaths of 76 patients, employees told investigators.
A blistering 174-page independent report on the outbreak at the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home, released on Wednesday, paints a picture of a facility in chaos, as traumatized nurses carried out orders to combine wards of infected and uninfected men, knowing that the move would prove deadly to many of their patients.
One social worker told investigators that she “felt it was like moving the concentration camp — we [were] moving these unknowing veterans off to die,” the report said.
More than 60 percent of fatalities from the coronavirus in Massachusetts have been at nursing homes.
The investigators blasted decisions made by the superintendent, Bennett Walsh, as “utterly baffling from an infection-control perspective.”
In addition to combining crowded wards, the report said, the home rotated staff members between the wards; discouraged them from using protective gear in an effort to conserve limited supplies; and often failed to isolate infected veterans or to test those who had symptoms.
“In short, this was the opposite of infection control,” the report said “Mr. Walsh and his team created close to an optimal environment for the spread of Covid-19.”
The state is acting to fire Mr. Walsh, a retired Marine Corps lieutenant colonel with no previous nursing home experience, the governor said. A lawyer for Mr. Walsh was not immediately available for comment.
Thousands of employees with the federal agency that administers the country’s immigration system are expected to begin receiving furlough notices as applications for green cards, citizenship and other programs drop, Zolan Kanno-Youngs reports.Thousands of employees with the federal agency that administers the country’s immigration system are expected to begin receiving furlough notices as applications for green cards, citizenship and other programs drop, Zolan Kanno-Youngs reports.
At one office, where well over half the employees were warned to expect furlough notices, staffers were told that the agency was focused on retaining jobs that “keep the lights on,” according to an email obtained by The New York Times.At one office, where well over half the employees were warned to expect furlough notices, staffers were told that the agency was focused on retaining jobs that “keep the lights on,” according to an email obtained by The New York Times.
LaDonna Davis, a spokeswoman for the agency, said that more than 13,000 employees should expect to receive the notices in early July.LaDonna Davis, a spokeswoman for the agency, said that more than 13,000 employees should expect to receive the notices in early July.
“This dramatic drop in revenue has made it impossible for our agency to operate at full capacity,” she said. “Without additional funding from Congress before Aug. 3, U.S.C.I.S. has no choice but to administratively furlough a substantial portion of our work force.”“This dramatic drop in revenue has made it impossible for our agency to operate at full capacity,” she said. “Without additional funding from Congress before Aug. 3, U.S.C.I.S. has no choice but to administratively furlough a substantial portion of our work force.”
The agency has asked lawmakers for $1.2 billion, citing economic damage from the pandemic.The agency has asked lawmakers for $1.2 billion, citing economic damage from the pandemic.
But critics say the problem lies not with the recession but with the Trump administration’s restrictionist immigration policies, which have led to backlogs and skyrocketing denials. The agency relies on application fees to fund most of its operations.But critics say the problem lies not with the recession but with the Trump administration’s restrictionist immigration policies, which have led to backlogs and skyrocketing denials. The agency relies on application fees to fund most of its operations.
Evan Hollander, spokesman for the Democratic-controlled House Appropriations Committee, said the Office of Management and Budget had provided a letter to the committee with “virtually no information on the shortfall or their proposed remedies.” He said Democratic lawmakers were prepared to discuss the financial situation with Republicans.Evan Hollander, spokesman for the Democratic-controlled House Appropriations Committee, said the Office of Management and Budget had provided a letter to the committee with “virtually no information on the shortfall or their proposed remedies.” He said Democratic lawmakers were prepared to discuss the financial situation with Republicans.
Citizenship and Immigration Services officials have told Congress they would repay the funds to the Treasury Department by adding a 10-percent surcharge to applications.Citizenship and Immigration Services officials have told Congress they would repay the funds to the Treasury Department by adding a 10-percent surcharge to applications.
In the email obtained by The Times, Jennifer Higgins, associate director of the office that deals with asylum and refugee applications, said the agency would send furlough notices to 1,500 of its 2,200 employees. It will to retain people whose duties include border screenings, refugee case completions and parole requests, she said.In the email obtained by The Times, Jennifer Higgins, associate director of the office that deals with asylum and refugee applications, said the agency would send furlough notices to 1,500 of its 2,200 employees. It will to retain people whose duties include border screenings, refugee case completions and parole requests, she said.
Joseph R. Biden Jr. has taken a commanding lead over President Trump in the 2020 race, building a wide advantage among women and nonwhite voters and making deep inroads with some traditionally Republican-leaning groups that have shifted away from Mr. Trump following his ineffective response to the coronavirus pandemic, according to a new national poll of registered voters by The New York Times and Siena College.Joseph R. Biden Jr. has taken a commanding lead over President Trump in the 2020 race, building a wide advantage among women and nonwhite voters and making deep inroads with some traditionally Republican-leaning groups that have shifted away from Mr. Trump following his ineffective response to the coronavirus pandemic, according to a new national poll of registered voters by The New York Times and Siena College.
Mr. Biden is currently ahead of Mr. Trump by 14 percentage points, garnering 50 percent of the vote compared with 36 percent for Mr. Trump. That is among the most dismal showings of Mr. Trump’s presidency, and a sign that he is the clear underdog right now in his fight for a second term.Mr. Biden is currently ahead of Mr. Trump by 14 percentage points, garnering 50 percent of the vote compared with 36 percent for Mr. Trump. That is among the most dismal showings of Mr. Trump’s presidency, and a sign that he is the clear underdog right now in his fight for a second term.
Nearly three-fifths of voters disapprove of Mr. Trump’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic, including majorities of white voters and men. Self-described moderate voters disapproved of Mr. Trump on the coronavirus by a margin of more than two to one.Nearly three-fifths of voters disapprove of Mr. Trump’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic, including majorities of white voters and men. Self-described moderate voters disapproved of Mr. Trump on the coronavirus by a margin of more than two to one.
Most of the country is also rejecting Mr. Trump’s call to reopen the economy as quickly as possible, even at the cost of exposing people to greater health risks. By a 21-point margin, voters said the federal government should prioritize containing the coronavirus, even if it hurts the economy, a view that aligns them with Mr. Biden.Most of the country is also rejecting Mr. Trump’s call to reopen the economy as quickly as possible, even at the cost of exposing people to greater health risks. By a 21-point margin, voters said the federal government should prioritize containing the coronavirus, even if it hurts the economy, a view that aligns them with Mr. Biden.
Just a third of voters said the government should focus on restarting the economy even if that entails greater public-health risks.Just a third of voters said the government should focus on restarting the economy even if that entails greater public-health risks.
The poll is the first national survey of the 2020 cycle by The New York Times and Siena College. Here are more results and the methodology for the poll.The poll is the first national survey of the 2020 cycle by The New York Times and Siena College. Here are more results and the methodology for the poll.
Poolside at President Trump’s resort near Miami, dozens of guests sunned last weekend on lounge chairs and chatted in cabanas. Golfers fanned out across multiple courses, and the hotel lobby hummed with activity for the first time in months.Poolside at President Trump’s resort near Miami, dozens of guests sunned last weekend on lounge chairs and chatted in cabanas. Golfers fanned out across multiple courses, and the hotel lobby hummed with activity for the first time in months.
The reopening of Trump National Doral, the most important source of revenue for the president’s strained family business, came as new coronavirus cases spiked in surrounding Miami-Dade County and as public health officials urged caution about resuming normal activity.The reopening of Trump National Doral, the most important source of revenue for the president’s strained family business, came as new coronavirus cases spiked in surrounding Miami-Dade County and as public health officials urged caution about resuming normal activity.
Virus cases in Florida exceeded 100,000 on Monday, with more than 3,100 deaths. About one-quarter of the cases have been in Miami-Dade County, a per capita rate twice the number statewide. On Tuesday, the county reported an average positive test rate of 12.4 percent in recent weeks. The latest single-day positive rate rose to 25.9 percent.Virus cases in Florida exceeded 100,000 on Monday, with more than 3,100 deaths. About one-quarter of the cases have been in Miami-Dade County, a per capita rate twice the number statewide. On Tuesday, the county reported an average positive test rate of 12.4 percent in recent weeks. The latest single-day positive rate rose to 25.9 percent.
At the Doral resort last weekend, steps were taken to prevent infections, even as many visitors and some staff members did not wear masks — something the president has been reluctant to do in public.At the Doral resort last weekend, steps were taken to prevent infections, even as many visitors and some staff members did not wear masks — something the president has been reluctant to do in public.
Ordering a meal at the poolside restaurant required a cellphone. Tables and chaise longues were disinfected between guests. On the golf courses, there were no ball-washers, among other changes.Ordering a meal at the poolside restaurant required a cellphone. Tables and chaise longues were disinfected between guests. On the golf courses, there were no ball-washers, among other changes.
The financial strain of virus-related shutdowns on the Trump Organization has been real. The company’s revenue from its hotel operations is way down this year, and it recently requested a rent abatement from Palm Beach County, where the Trumps operate two golf courses on county land.The financial strain of virus-related shutdowns on the Trump Organization has been real. The company’s revenue from its hotel operations is way down this year, and it recently requested a rent abatement from Palm Beach County, where the Trumps operate two golf courses on county land.
Congress included language in a federal relief package that prohibited the Trump family from taking part in assistance programs controlled by Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, and the company decided not to seek loans from the Small Business Administration.Congress included language in a federal relief package that prohibited the Trump family from taking part in assistance programs controlled by Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, and the company decided not to seek loans from the Small Business Administration.
Global roundupGlobal roundup
President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia on Wednesday celebrated his country’s victory 75 years ago against Nazi Germany, presiding over an enormous military parade through Red Square in Moscow that featured thousands of soldiers marching shoulder-to-shoulder without face masks.President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia on Wednesday celebrated his country’s victory 75 years ago against Nazi Germany, presiding over an enormous military parade through Red Square in Moscow that featured thousands of soldiers marching shoulder-to-shoulder without face masks.
The parade, the largest of several celebrations taking place nationwide, was originally scheduled for May 9, an annual holiday known as Victory Day, but was delayed for six weeks by the pandemic. The outbreak continues to grow in Russia — the world’s third-worst-affected country, with more than 600,000 cases — but at a slightly slower pace than before.The parade, the largest of several celebrations taking place nationwide, was originally scheduled for May 9, an annual holiday known as Victory Day, but was delayed for six weeks by the pandemic. The outbreak continues to grow in Russia — the world’s third-worst-affected country, with more than 600,000 cases — but at a slightly slower pace than before.
Aging veterans in their 80s and 90s joined Mr. Putin on the reviewing stand, nearly all of them without masks, to watch 14,000 troops march by.Aging veterans in their 80s and 90s joined Mr. Putin on the reviewing stand, nearly all of them without masks, to watch 14,000 troops march by.
Kremlin critics have accused Mr. Putin of gambling with public health to put himself at the center of a gigantic display of Russia’s military might and to rally support ahead of a nationwide vote on his future. Voting on constitutional amendments that would allow Mr. Putin to stay in power until 2036 starts on Thursday.Kremlin critics have accused Mr. Putin of gambling with public health to put himself at the center of a gigantic display of Russia’s military might and to rally support ahead of a nationwide vote on his future. Voting on constitutional amendments that would allow Mr. Putin to stay in power until 2036 starts on Thursday.
In other news from around the world:In other news from around the world:
Saudi Arabia effectively canceled the hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca, for what some scholars say may be the first time in history. The decision sent shock waves of sadness and disappointment across the Muslim world.Saudi Arabia effectively canceled the hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca, for what some scholars say may be the first time in history. The decision sent shock waves of sadness and disappointment across the Muslim world.
The virus is gaining steam in Latin America, where the number of deaths have more than doubled in a month, according to the Pan American Health Organization. The region now accounts for several of the world’s worst outbreaks.The virus is gaining steam in Latin America, where the number of deaths have more than doubled in a month, according to the Pan American Health Organization. The region now accounts for several of the world’s worst outbreaks.
Taiwan said on Wednesday that it would relax its entry rules for travelers from Hong Kong and Macau. Arrivals from the Chinese-controlled territories must prove that they have tested negative for the virus and enter home quarantine for 14 days after entry.Taiwan said on Wednesday that it would relax its entry rules for travelers from Hong Kong and Macau. Arrivals from the Chinese-controlled territories must prove that they have tested negative for the virus and enter home quarantine for 14 days after entry.
India is under pressure to open its airspace to international airlines after the United States and some European nations accused it of discriminatory practices under the guise of repatriations. The U.S. Department of Transportation accused Air India of selling tickets in the open market, even while New Delhi officials keep American carriers from flying to India.India is under pressure to open its airspace to international airlines after the United States and some European nations accused it of discriminatory practices under the guise of repatriations. The U.S. Department of Transportation accused Air India of selling tickets in the open market, even while New Delhi officials keep American carriers from flying to India.
Gold prices are within spitting distance of record highs, after a surge of buying pushed the precious metal up 17 percent this year. Traditionally viewed as a hedge against potential inflation and a safe asset for investors during times of political and economic uncertainty, gold is now nearing the record-high price of about $1,900 an ounce that it reached in 2011.Gold prices are within spitting distance of record highs, after a surge of buying pushed the precious metal up 17 percent this year. Traditionally viewed as a hedge against potential inflation and a safe asset for investors during times of political and economic uncertainty, gold is now nearing the record-high price of about $1,900 an ounce that it reached in 2011.
Three weeks after it was introduced, a French contact-tracing app has fallen short of its potential to be a game changer: Only 14 users have been alerted that they were exposed to the virus.Three weeks after it was introduced, a French contact-tracing app has fallen short of its potential to be a game changer: Only 14 users have been alerted that they were exposed to the virus.
The app, called “StopCovid,” uses Bluetooth technology to trace a person’s interactions. If users test positive and indicate their status on the app, their recent contacts — the ones who are also using the app — get an alert. But so far, only 68 people have informed the app that they were infected, and just a handful of their contacts received alerts.The app, called “StopCovid,” uses Bluetooth technology to trace a person’s interactions. If users test positive and indicate their status on the app, their recent contacts — the ones who are also using the app — get an alert. But so far, only 68 people have informed the app that they were infected, and just a handful of their contacts received alerts.
“These figures correspond to a double reality,” Cédric O, the French digital affairs minister, said during a news conference this week. “A decrease in the spread of the epidemic in France — about 30 people a day are tested positive in Paris — but also a limited use of StopCovid.”“These figures correspond to a double reality,” Cédric O, the French digital affairs minister, said during a news conference this week. “A decrease in the spread of the epidemic in France — about 30 people a day are tested positive in Paris — but also a limited use of StopCovid.”
Mr. O said that 1.9 million people had downloaded the app in France, or about 3 percent of the total population. About 460,000 people then uninstalled it.Mr. O said that 1.9 million people had downloaded the app in France, or about 3 percent of the total population. About 460,000 people then uninstalled it.
Modeling by Christophe Fraser, an infectious-disease epidemiologist at Oxford University, estimated that to stop the spread of the illness, approximately 60 percent of the population would have to use the app.Modeling by Christophe Fraser, an infectious-disease epidemiologist at Oxford University, estimated that to stop the spread of the illness, approximately 60 percent of the population would have to use the app.
Mr. O acknowledged in April that one of his main worries about the technology was whether enough people would install it. In Germany, some 10 million people, or about 12 percent of the population, downloaded a similar app. Britain was set to unroll its own app in June, but those plans were shelved after an initial testing phase revealed major problems.Mr. O acknowledged in April that one of his main worries about the technology was whether enough people would install it. In Germany, some 10 million people, or about 12 percent of the population, downloaded a similar app. Britain was set to unroll its own app in June, but those plans were shelved after an initial testing phase revealed major problems.
Unlike most European countries, France opted to develop its own technology to underpin its app, rather than using the standard version backed by Apple and Google, and that decision partly delayed the introduction of StopCovid.Unlike most European countries, France opted to develop its own technology to underpin its app, rather than using the standard version backed by Apple and Google, and that decision partly delayed the introduction of StopCovid.
With cases on the rise in the United States and around the world, here’s what to do if you feel sick and are worried it may be the coronavirus.With cases on the rise in the United States and around the world, here’s what to do if you feel sick and are worried it may be the coronavirus.
Reporting was contributed by Azam Ahmed, Brooks Barnes, Emma Bubola, Alexander Burns, Maria Cramer, Matthew Futterman, Michael Gold, J. David Goodman, Jack Healy, Andrew Higgins, Ben Hubbard, Zolan Kanno-Youngs, Anatoly Kurmanaev, Ernesto Londoño, Iliana Magra, Apoorva Mandavilli, Jonathan Martin, Jack Nicas, Giulia McDonnell Nieto del Rio, Jesse McKinley, Donald McNeil Jr., Constant Méheut, Benjamin Mueller, Daniel Politi, Austin Ramzy, Alan Rappeport, Dana Rubinstein, Kim Severson, Mitch Smith, Matt Stevens, Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Eileen Sullivan, Declan Walsh, Sui-Lee Wee, Noah Weiland, Pete Wells, Sameer Yasir and Karen Zraick. Reporting was contributed by Azam Ahmed, Brooks Barnes, Ellen Barry, Emma Bubola, Alexander Burns, Maria Cramer, Matthew Futterman, Michael Gold, J. David Goodman, Jack Healy, Andrew Higgins, Ben Hubbard, Zolan Kanno-Youngs, Anatoly Kurmanaev, Ernesto Londoño, Iliana Magra, Apoorva Mandavilli, Jonathan Martin, Patricia Mazzei, Jack Nicas, Giulia McDonnell Nieto del Rio, Jesse McKinley, Donald McNeil Jr., Constant Méheut, Benjamin Mueller, Daniel Politi, Austin Ramzy, Alan Rappeport, Dana Rubinstein, Kim Severson, Mitch Smith, Matt Stevens, Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Eileen Sullivan, Declan Walsh, Sui-Lee Wee, Noah Weiland, Pete Wells, Sameer Yasir and Karen Zraick.