The NPR Politics Podcast Hill Leaders Turn Down Additional Tests For Lawmakers
May 4, 2020
Top lawmakers rejected additional COVID-19 testing from the administration, raising eyebrows as public testing availability concerns persist. As senators returned to Capitol Hill, they navigated health guidelines while debating legislative urgency amidst a pandemic. The discussion highlights the stark divide over testing distribution and President Trump's early pandemic briefings, revealing alarming gaps in communication and response strategies. The podcast also examines the real vs. predicted COVID-19 death tolls as states contemplate economic reopening.
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Senate Health Guidelines
- The Senate returns with new health guidelines, including mask wearing and social distancing.
- These are recommendations, not requirements, from attending physician Brian Monahan.
Senate's Return and Priorities
- The Senate's return is driven by various factors, including confirming nominations and conducting oversight hearings.
- This decision has faced criticism due to the perceived prioritization of nominations over pandemic-related legislation.
COVID-19 Tests Declined
- The White House offered rapid COVID-19 tests to Congress, but Pelosi and McConnell declined.
- They cited the need to prioritize frontline workers and avoid special treatment.