Congressman Tom Reed introduced by Andy Goodell. Tom is one of about a dozen Reed children, born to a middle-class family and the son of a veteran. Andy noted Tom’s great accessibility, holding town halls in the good and bad times, being a leader through COIVD and keeping everyone up to date on what’s happening, and for his co-chair leadership in the Bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus.
Tom spoke heavily on the COVID-19 response, reiterating he doesn’t want to fight as Democrats or Republicans but as and for Americans. He noted the virus is resurging as was expected and that the PPE distribution and lessons learned from earlier in the year paying huge dividends in the treatment and tracking of COVID-19. He spoke to a new FDA approved treatment that is doing well. Tom feels that a vaccine is very close to being prepared through Operation Warp Speed where there are 6 potential vaccines which the inventory has been purchased and is ready to be disbursed by the military when final approval is met. He spoke to assistance sent to local hospitals to help them stay open through the COVID-19 stoppage on elective surgery, and assistance getting increased personal protective equipment. He is also encouraged by new potential trade deals coming with Mexico, Canada and Japan that will help our local farmers.
Q&A:
Question: Wondering about the distribution of the 150 million tests
Congressman Reed: Rapid tests are already deployed; Super Rapid Tests have gone to state capitals to be distributed to local Departments of Health. Super Rapid Tests don’t need machines to verify, and are going to rapid testing sites, schools, and nursing homes. The focus is on containment and tracking over mitigation.
Congressman Reed: Rapid tests are already deployed; Super Rapid Tests have gone to state capitals to be distributed to local Departments of Health. Super Rapid Tests don’t need machines to verify, and are going to rapid testing sites, schools, and nursing homes. The focus is on containment and tracking over mitigation.
Question: How often are you and your staff tested?
Congressman Reed: We are tested as needed due to potential contact or exposure just like everyone else.
Question: Will there be regional differences in vaccines with 6 potential companies?
Congressman Reed: Likely all 6 won’t be approved, probably 2-3. May vary regionally or leave a choice.
Question: If tested positive, can you tell how long ago?
Congressman Reed: Antibody test is believed to be accurate for at least 4 months, potentially longer.
Question: CDC usually distributes meds/vaccines, why was it sent to military for distribution?
Congressman Reed: CDC/NAH play an important role, but military has better storing and distribution logistics
Question: Why isn’t a stimulus package completed for the people without all the add-ons?
Congressman Reed: Tied up in politics. $3T have been distributed so far but more is needed. Many don’t want a deal so close to the election as it could influence it. Bipartisan Problem Solvers don’t believe it will be any better after the election until Jan/Feb, so they are trying to get one completed as early as this week. $1.88T has been an agreed upon figure, distributing to unemployment, food stamp/wic programs, individuals, airlines, and small businesses. McConnell has agreed to send it to a vote, House of Reps have agreed to review, and President Trump has indicated he would sign it. A program must be put out to the people before 2021.
Congressman Reed: Tied up in politics. $3T have been distributed so far but more is needed. Many don’t want a deal so close to the election as it could influence it. Bipartisan Problem Solvers don’t believe it will be any better after the election until Jan/Feb, so they are trying to get one completed as early as this week. $1.88T has been an agreed upon figure, distributing to unemployment, food stamp/wic programs, individuals, airlines, and small businesses. McConnell has agreed to send it to a vote, House of Reps have agreed to review, and President Trump has indicated he would sign it. A program must be put out to the people before 2021.
Note: Everything has been abbreviated, for full content please review the video below: