The NPR Politics Podcast Congress Tries To Reach COVID Funding Deal
Mar 28, 2022
COVID cases are down, but experts caution it's still too early to celebrate. Lawmakers are scrambling for a funding deal to bolster the federal response as new variants emerge abroad. Concerns loom over future vaccination strategies and potential funding cuts that could jeopardize public health. The pandemic's ongoing influence on the upcoming midterm elections raises questions about vaccine developments and how political messaging will shift. Local decision-making on health guidelines is crucial as case rates evolve.
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COVID-19 Status
- COVID cases are currently down, but it's too early to declare victory.
- New variants and surges in other countries necessitate preparedness.
US Preparedness
- The US's preparedness for future surges depends on several factors.
- These include funding for vaccines and medicines, and robust surveillance systems.
COVID Funding Debate
- The White House requested COVID funding, but Congress removed it from the budget bill.
- House Democrats opposed the funding cuts impacting states, leading to stalled negotiations.