Joe Bryant said:
Saw this today:
Do you Agree or Disagree with what's quoted above?
In no order:
- The media is over-hyping this story, and, too often, it appears to be mainly in reaction to the President's comments or actions. Some of this is fair game. In a time of crisis, the President is expected to lead. I think it's fair to say that this President doesn't present himself as a leader especially when compared to past leaders. In addition, is the administration's reaction showing the urgency, importance and seriousness of the situation? All very valid points. It would probably appear less partisan if CNN, FOX and others didn't have partisans answering these questions vs. medical experts. It's fairly easy to predict what any pundit is going to say and you can learn more listening to a health expert.
- Trump created a task force with Pence leading and several medical experts. That is a good move. From what I've seen, Pence appears to be letting the medical experts answer the medical questions and there doesn't appear to be any obstacles to them getting their messaging out. The task force team though needs to do more - they haven't been able to answer how many tests have been conducted, plans for the cruise ship on the West Coast seemed unprepared, and there has been valid criticism of some of their other responses. The President should let the task force do their jobs, and not undermine them with tweets and/or conflicting statements.
- I do think the President's decision to restrict travel from China was a smart move. However, the administration did not use the time it bought to prepare the country (i.e. ensuring testing kits were present). How they were so unprepared, and still catching up, is completely unacceptable.
- Hopefully the task force will help with this, but be transparent. As testing ramps up and community spread increases, the number of people infected will likely spike to frightening numbers. Don't downplay, under-report, etc. Get it out there and be honest. The virus isn't political. The President could actually look like a leader by being honest, letting the American people know that cases are likely to spike, as we have seen in other countries, for the next few months. Don't talk about a vaccine that isn't coming for another year as if it's about to be released.
- Politicians need to avoid unnecessary fighting. If a stimulus bill is needed, and both sides agree, get in a room and figure it out without the days of partisan bickering. This is not likely to happen in an election year with the country divided on most issues so don't expect this to not drive most of the coverage on CNN, etc.