3-21-20
So far, during this COVID 19 outbreak, a number of governors have really risen to the challenge. Governor Cuomo (D) of New York, Governor Inslee (D) of Washington, and Governor Hogan (R) of Maryland are 3 examples who are working hard to be proactive in battling COVID 19. But responses have varied between various states around the country with some reacting more aggressively than others. There are state leaders listening to the scientists and medical experts while some are not doing so as much as they should. Thing is, COVID 19 is spreading quickly, and experts are saying that we need serious, coordinated action now throughout the country to try to lower the rate of infection; otherwise, our health care system will be overwhelmed as has occurred in parts of Italy.
The federal government’s response has not been anywhere near what it should be. A big part of that is due to the Trump Administration.
Trump did not appear to take COVID 19 seriously early on and wasted precious weeks downplaying the threat instead of proactively battling and preparing for it. Even now that he seems to realize the situation is serious, his statements and actions appear scarily erratic.
In daily briefings, he has made numerous exaggerated and false statements which officials have had to correct during the same briefing. One moment he acts appropriately presidential, and the next he is behaving like a spoiled two year old lashing out at a reporter who had asked a legitimate question.
During these difficult times, we need stable, honest, strong, bipartisan leadership. Trump has failed in this thus far.
Politicians need to listen to the experts and work with each other, even when on different sides of the political divide. The federal government needs to show greater leadership and coordination so that all the states are working together and not piece meal. It also needs to coordinate with the private sector in what is needed, such as producing more ventilators. The federal, state, and local levels of government need to address how workers are going to be supported as more and more get laid off or sick. Part of slowing the spread of COVID 19 is ensuring workers have support and don’t end up working sick out of desperation or unfair business practices. And we all need to educate ourselves about hand washing, better hygiene, and social distancing.
Everyone must work together in battling COVID 19.
Views and Observations 