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As More States Reopen, Protesters Chafe at Restrictions As More States Reopen, Protesters Chafe at Restrictions
(about 20 hours later)
This briefing has ended. Follow our latest coverage of the U.S. coronavirus pandemic.This briefing has ended. Follow our latest coverage of the U.S. coronavirus pandemic.
Nearly a dozen states tentatively returned to public life on Friday, the first mass reopening of businesses since the pandemic brought America to a standstill six weeks ago. But there were clashes across the country over how, when and even whether it should be done.Nearly a dozen states tentatively returned to public life on Friday, the first mass reopening of businesses since the pandemic brought America to a standstill six weeks ago. But there were clashes across the country over how, when and even whether it should be done.
Partisan battles flared in Illinois and Michigan, where protesters demanded that Democratic leaders loosen restrictions. The skirmishes there and elsewhere revealed political dividing lines and geographical differences, but also something more basic — a vast and widely varying range of personal views about what the country should do.Partisan battles flared in Illinois and Michigan, where protesters demanded that Democratic leaders loosen restrictions. The skirmishes there and elsewhere revealed political dividing lines and geographical differences, but also something more basic — a vast and widely varying range of personal views about what the country should do.
Texas lifted stay-at-home orders for its 29 million residents — in Houston, the Galleria mall was open again but ample close-in parking suggested some customers were wary of returning. In Mobile, Ala., a venerable boutique decided to reopen with one dressing room so it could be disinfected between uses.Texas lifted stay-at-home orders for its 29 million residents — in Houston, the Galleria mall was open again but ample close-in parking suggested some customers were wary of returning. In Mobile, Ala., a venerable boutique decided to reopen with one dressing room so it could be disinfected between uses.
Outdoor dining will soon return to South Carolina’s restaurants: Gov. Henry McMaster announced on Friday that he would ease more restrictions beginning Monday, when restaurants, which have been limited to takeout and delivery, will be allowed to serve diners outdoors.Outdoor dining will soon return to South Carolina’s restaurants: Gov. Henry McMaster announced on Friday that he would ease more restrictions beginning Monday, when restaurants, which have been limited to takeout and delivery, will be allowed to serve diners outdoors.
Iowa loosened restrictions in some counties, but not others. In Davenport, which is still under restrictions, Glory Smith questioned that logic since the virus does not respect county boundaries.Iowa loosened restrictions in some counties, but not others. In Davenport, which is still under restrictions, Glory Smith questioned that logic since the virus does not respect county boundaries.
“It is like having a smoking section on a plane or in a restaurant,” she said. “It doesn’t work.”“It is like having a smoking section on a plane or in a restaurant,” she said. “It doesn’t work.”
As more states began to reopen on Friday, the governors of California, Illinois, Louisiana and Michigan contended with challenges to their authority to shutter some parts of public life.As more states began to reopen on Friday, the governors of California, Illinois, Louisiana and Michigan contended with challenges to their authority to shutter some parts of public life.
And as some customers stayed away, several large companies faced protests from employees concerned about their safety. Amazon and Target were the focus of renewed labor protests over the health risks of working during a pandemic.And as some customers stayed away, several large companies faced protests from employees concerned about their safety. Amazon and Target were the focus of renewed labor protests over the health risks of working during a pandemic.
President Trump has voiced support for protests against restrictions, even as federal guidance urged Americans to avoid large gatherings to help stem the spread of the virus. The Justice Department has signaled that it might endorse court challenges pushing back against some rules.President Trump has voiced support for protests against restrictions, even as federal guidance urged Americans to avoid large gatherings to help stem the spread of the virus. The Justice Department has signaled that it might endorse court challenges pushing back against some rules.
By next week, nearly half the states will have made moves toward reopening their economies. At the same time, portions of the country, including much of the West Coast and the Northeast, remain shuttered.By next week, nearly half the states will have made moves toward reopening their economies. At the same time, portions of the country, including much of the West Coast and the Northeast, remain shuttered.
But the reopening comes as the number of cases continues to rise in many states — known deaths from the virus surpassed 63,000 in the United States this week — and as public health experts have warned that reopening too soon could lead to a devastating second wave.But the reopening comes as the number of cases continues to rise in many states — known deaths from the virus surpassed 63,000 in the United States this week — and as public health experts have warned that reopening too soon could lead to a devastating second wave.
Gov. Jay Inslee of Washington said on Friday that he was extending the state’s stay-at-home order until at least the end of May. “I would like to tell you that you can make reservations on June 1, but I cannot,” he said.Gov. Jay Inslee of Washington said on Friday that he was extending the state’s stay-at-home order until at least the end of May. “I would like to tell you that you can make reservations on June 1, but I cannot,” he said.
And in New Mexico, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham authorized a lockdown of the town of Gallup on Friday in an effort to curtail a surge in virus deaths that has the state’s tribal nations on edge.And in New Mexico, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham authorized a lockdown of the town of Gallup on Friday in an effort to curtail a surge in virus deaths that has the state’s tribal nations on edge.
The Navajo Nation has been grappling with a severe outbreak: As of Thursday, the tribal nation had reported a total of 2,141 cases and 71 confirmed deaths. The Navajo Nation’s president, Jonathan Nez, said he fully supported the lockdown order. “We have many members of the Navajo Nation that reside in Gallup and many that travel in the area, and their health and safety is always our top priority,” Mr. Nez said.The Navajo Nation has been grappling with a severe outbreak: As of Thursday, the tribal nation had reported a total of 2,141 cases and 71 confirmed deaths. The Navajo Nation’s president, Jonathan Nez, said he fully supported the lockdown order. “We have many members of the Navajo Nation that reside in Gallup and many that travel in the area, and their health and safety is always our top priority,” Mr. Nez said.
The Food and Drug Administration on Friday issued an emergency approval for the antiviral drug remdesivir as a treatment for patients with Covid-19, the illness caused by the virus.The Food and Drug Administration on Friday issued an emergency approval for the antiviral drug remdesivir as a treatment for patients with Covid-19, the illness caused by the virus.
The approval, formally called an emergency use authorization, had been expected following modestly encouraging results from a federal trial, announced on Wednesday.The approval, formally called an emergency use authorization, had been expected following modestly encouraging results from a federal trial, announced on Wednesday.
The trial found that patients receiving remdesivir recovered more quickly: in 11 days, versus 15 in a group receiving a placebo. But the drug, made by Gilead Sciences, did not significantly reduce fatality rates.The trial found that patients receiving remdesivir recovered more quickly: in 11 days, versus 15 in a group receiving a placebo. But the drug, made by Gilead Sciences, did not significantly reduce fatality rates.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, the president announced the F.D.A. approval and called it “an important treatment for hospitalized coronavirus patients.”Speaking to reporters on Friday, the president announced the F.D.A. approval and called it “an important treatment for hospitalized coronavirus patients.”
The president said that he was “pleased” that Gilead had received its emergency authorization. “And you know what, that is because that’s been the hot thing in the papers and in the media for the last little while — an important treatment for hospitalized coronavirus patients,” he said.The president said that he was “pleased” that Gilead had received its emergency authorization. “And you know what, that is because that’s been the hot thing in the papers and in the media for the last little while — an important treatment for hospitalized coronavirus patients,” he said.
Dr. Deborah L. Birx, the coordinator of the virus task force, said that the F.D.A. approval of remdesivir “really illustrates what can happen in such a short time” noting how fast the approval followed the first known cases in the United States.Dr. Deborah L. Birx, the coordinator of the virus task force, said that the F.D.A. approval of remdesivir “really illustrates what can happen in such a short time” noting how fast the approval followed the first known cases in the United States.
Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the federal government’s top expert on infectious diseases, said earlier this week that the results were “a very important proof of concept” but not a “knockout.”Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the federal government’s top expert on infectious diseases, said earlier this week that the results were “a very important proof of concept” but not a “knockout.”
The White House is preventing Dr. Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, from testifying before the House next week, a spokesman for the House Appropriations Committee said on Friday.The White House is preventing Dr. Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, from testifying before the House next week, a spokesman for the House Appropriations Committee said on Friday.
Top Democrats on the panel had wanted Dr. Fauci to testify as part of an in-person hearing led by Representative Rosa DeLauro, Democrat of Connecticut, who oversees the subcommittee responsible for funding health, labor and education agencies and programs. But when the committee asked for Dr. Fauci to appear, the Trump administration denied the request and the committee was told by an administration official that it was because of the White House, according to Evan Hollander, a spokesman for the House Appropriations Committee.Top Democrats on the panel had wanted Dr. Fauci to testify as part of an in-person hearing led by Representative Rosa DeLauro, Democrat of Connecticut, who oversees the subcommittee responsible for funding health, labor and education agencies and programs. But when the committee asked for Dr. Fauci to appear, the Trump administration denied the request and the committee was told by an administration official that it was because of the White House, according to Evan Hollander, a spokesman for the House Appropriations Committee.
A White House spokesman defended the decision as aimed at keeping the administration focused on its response to the virus. “It is counterproductive to have the very individuals involved in those efforts appearing at congressional hearings,” said the spokesman, Judd Deere. “We are committed to working with Congress to offer testimony at the appropriate time.”A White House spokesman defended the decision as aimed at keeping the administration focused on its response to the virus. “It is counterproductive to have the very individuals involved in those efforts appearing at congressional hearings,” said the spokesman, Judd Deere. “We are committed to working with Congress to offer testimony at the appropriate time.”
The Washington Post first reported the White House’s decision.The Washington Post first reported the White House’s decision.
Dr. Fauci, one of the most visible faces of the administration’s fight against the coronavirus, has often quietly contradicted many of Mr. Trump’s statements on how the administration is handling the outbreak and how quickly the country will be able to recover.Dr. Fauci, one of the most visible faces of the administration’s fight against the coronavirus, has often quietly contradicted many of Mr. Trump’s statements on how the administration is handling the outbreak and how quickly the country will be able to recover.
But the White House has directed government health officials and scientists to coordinate all statements and public appearances with Vice President Mike Pence’s office, in an effort to streamline the administration’s messaging. Dr. Fauci told associates in February that he had been instructed not to say anything else without clearance, but has become a media fixture as the toll of the pandemic has grown.But the White House has directed government health officials and scientists to coordinate all statements and public appearances with Vice President Mike Pence’s office, in an effort to streamline the administration’s messaging. Dr. Fauci told associates in February that he had been instructed not to say anything else without clearance, but has become a media fixture as the toll of the pandemic has grown.
Separately, the president moved on Friday to replace a top official at the Department of Health and Human Services who angered him with a report last month highlighting supply shortages and testing delays at hospitals during the pandemic. This was the latest effort by Mr. Trump against watchdog offices around his administration that have defied him.Separately, the president moved on Friday to replace a top official at the Department of Health and Human Services who angered him with a report last month highlighting supply shortages and testing delays at hospitals during the pandemic. This was the latest effort by Mr. Trump against watchdog offices around his administration that have defied him.
Gov. Philip D. Murphy of New Jersey reported another 311 deaths from the virus on Friday. It was a drop from Thursday, when the state reported 460 deaths. State health officials explained on Friday that the number of deaths reported on any given day includes many deaths that can go back weeks and are newly classified as virus-related.Gov. Philip D. Murphy of New Jersey reported another 311 deaths from the virus on Friday. It was a drop from Thursday, when the state reported 460 deaths. State health officials explained on Friday that the number of deaths reported on any given day includes many deaths that can go back weeks and are newly classified as virus-related.
But it was the second straight day that New Jersey reported more deaths than New York, which has more than twice as many people. On Friday, New York reported that 289 more people had died, the first time the one-day death toll fell below 300 since March 30. New hospitalizations for the virus in New York remained in the mid-900s for the fourth straight day, a sign of a plateau that its governor found troubling.But it was the second straight day that New Jersey reported more deaths than New York, which has more than twice as many people. On Friday, New York reported that 289 more people had died, the first time the one-day death toll fell below 300 since March 30. New hospitalizations for the virus in New York remained in the mid-900s for the fourth straight day, a sign of a plateau that its governor found troubling.
Mr. Murphy’s announcement came as New Jersey’s state and county parks are set to reopen on Saturday. So are golf courses, with extensive social distancing rules in place.Mr. Murphy’s announcement came as New Jersey’s state and county parks are set to reopen on Saturday. So are golf courses, with extensive social distancing rules in place.
He said New Jersey residents were being “trusted” with a big test this weekend, and he urged people to wear masks and avoid “knucklehead behavior with people ignoring social distancing.”He said New Jersey residents were being “trusted” with a big test this weekend, and he urged people to wear masks and avoid “knucklehead behavior with people ignoring social distancing.”
In New York, schools across the state will remain shuttered through the end of the school year, its governor said Friday, confirming what other officials had previously said was inevitable. He has said some parts of the state might be able to gradually reopen businesses on May 15, excluding New York City and the surrounding region.In New York, schools across the state will remain shuttered through the end of the school year, its governor said Friday, confirming what other officials had previously said was inevitable. He has said some parts of the state might be able to gradually reopen businesses on May 15, excluding New York City and the surrounding region.
Hundreds of protesters converged on the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield and in downtown Chicago on Friday, demanding that Gov. J.B. Pritzker lift the stay-at-home order that he extended until May 29.Hundreds of protesters converged on the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield and in downtown Chicago on Friday, demanding that Gov. J.B. Pritzker lift the stay-at-home order that he extended until May 29.
At the Capitol, demonstrators crowded beneath a statue of Abraham Lincoln and chanted, “Open Illinois!” Most did not have face coverings, and some wore “Make America Great Again” hats.At the Capitol, demonstrators crowded beneath a statue of Abraham Lincoln and chanted, “Open Illinois!” Most did not have face coverings, and some wore “Make America Great Again” hats.
The protest came on the heels of a similar demonstration in Michigan on Thursday, where hundreds of people, some of them armed, converged on the State Capitol in Lansing to protest the state’s stay-at-home orders.The protest came on the heels of a similar demonstration in Michigan on Thursday, where hundreds of people, some of them armed, converged on the State Capitol in Lansing to protest the state’s stay-at-home orders.
In Louisiana, Gov. John Bel Edwards’s decision to extend a stay-at-home order has also been met with an upswell of outrage. And in California, hundreds of people gathered in Huntington Beach on Friday to protest against Gov. Gavin Newsom’s directive to close beaches in Orange County.In Louisiana, Gov. John Bel Edwards’s decision to extend a stay-at-home order has also been met with an upswell of outrage. And in California, hundreds of people gathered in Huntington Beach on Friday to protest against Gov. Gavin Newsom’s directive to close beaches in Orange County.
Officials across the country are trying to strike a balance between prioritizing public health and stanching the economic devastation. In some states, the divide has become starkly partisan and increasingly rancorous.Officials across the country are trying to strike a balance between prioritizing public health and stanching the economic devastation. In some states, the divide has become starkly partisan and increasingly rancorous.
Michigan, Louisiana, California and Illinois are all run by Democratic governors who have recently moved to extend stay-at-home orders. All have faced pushback from Republican state officials, and protests against their orders have doubled as rallies for conservative causes.Michigan, Louisiana, California and Illinois are all run by Democratic governors who have recently moved to extend stay-at-home orders. All have faced pushback from Republican state officials, and protests against their orders have doubled as rallies for conservative causes.
“The people of Louisiana are about to revolt,” said Danny McCormick, a Republican state representative who organized a rally scheduled for Saturday outside of the governor’s mansion. Some lawmakers there have been plotting to overturn the governor’s order, potentially leaving Louisiana as the only state in the nation without an emergency declaration in place.“The people of Louisiana are about to revolt,” said Danny McCormick, a Republican state representative who organized a rally scheduled for Saturday outside of the governor’s mansion. Some lawmakers there have been plotting to overturn the governor’s order, potentially leaving Louisiana as the only state in the nation without an emergency declaration in place.
“That would just be completely irresponsible and nonsensical,” Mr. Edwards said at a news conference on Thursday, “to be the only state in the nation without an emergency declaration in place for the public health emergency of Covid-19.”“That would just be completely irresponsible and nonsensical,” Mr. Edwards said at a news conference on Thursday, “to be the only state in the nation without an emergency declaration in place for the public health emergency of Covid-19.”
In Illinois, James Marter, a Republican running for Congress, spoke at the rally in Springfield and decried that liquor stores and marijuana shops remained open, and that abortions continued. “We the people, are losing our freedoms everyday at a blinding speed,” he said according to a video that was briefly posted on Facebook by one of the rally’s organizers.In Illinois, James Marter, a Republican running for Congress, spoke at the rally in Springfield and decried that liquor stores and marijuana shops remained open, and that abortions continued. “We the people, are losing our freedoms everyday at a blinding speed,” he said according to a video that was briefly posted on Facebook by one of the rally’s organizers.
And in California, where a crowd gathered at Huntington Beach, videos showed hundreds of people demonstrating, mostly without masks, waving American flags while chanting “No More Newsom.”And in California, where a crowd gathered at Huntington Beach, videos showed hundreds of people demonstrating, mostly without masks, waving American flags while chanting “No More Newsom.”
Polls show that a majority of Americans support social distancing measures, and some lonely demonstrators are trying to prove that point.Polls show that a majority of Americans support social distancing measures, and some lonely demonstrators are trying to prove that point.
A lawyer in Florida, Daniel W. Uhlfelder, tried to sue Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican, to demand statewide beach closures. He said he was planning to tour beaches in the Panhandle in a Grim Reaper costume to draw attention to the risk of the virus and warn people away from the beaches there.A lawyer in Florida, Daniel W. Uhlfelder, tried to sue Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican, to demand statewide beach closures. He said he was planning to tour beaches in the Panhandle in a Grim Reaper costume to draw attention to the risk of the virus and warn people away from the beaches there.
When senators converge on Capitol Hill for a new session next week, there will not be enough coronavirus tests for all of them — even though White House officials and staff members are well supplied.When senators converge on Capitol Hill for a new session next week, there will not be enough coronavirus tests for all of them — even though White House officials and staff members are well supplied.
Dr. Brian P. Monahan, the tight-lipped doctor who attends to Congress, told senior Republican officials on a private conference call on Thursday that his office could not screen all 100 senators for the virus when they return on Monday.Dr. Brian P. Monahan, the tight-lipped doctor who attends to Congress, told senior Republican officials on a private conference call on Thursday that his office could not screen all 100 senators for the virus when they return on Monday.
President Trump and Vice President Mike Pence are tested frequently and have often avoided masks in public. Aides who come into close contact with them are tested weekly, according to officials familiar with the process.President Trump and Vice President Mike Pence are tested frequently and have often avoided masks in public. Aides who come into close contact with them are tested weekly, according to officials familiar with the process.
The stark contrast between the testing haves at the White House and the have-nots on Capitol Hill makes clear that Mr. Trump’s pronouncement that “anybody that wants a test can get a test,” as he said in March, is far from true. Although the rich and powerful are clearly favored, not even all the powerful have equal access.The stark contrast between the testing haves at the White House and the have-nots on Capitol Hill makes clear that Mr. Trump’s pronouncement that “anybody that wants a test can get a test,” as he said in March, is far from true. Although the rich and powerful are clearly favored, not even all the powerful have equal access.
Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California had not been tested as of Friday. Representative Kevin McCarthy of California, the top House Republican, has — but at the White House, where he attended an event with the president last week. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York, the Democratic leader, has not been tested. Aides for Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the majority leader, would not say whether he had been tested.Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California had not been tested as of Friday. Representative Kevin McCarthy of California, the top House Republican, has — but at the White House, where he attended an event with the president last week. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York, the Democratic leader, has not been tested. Aides for Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the majority leader, would not say whether he had been tested.
This week, after Dr. Monahan warned the House of Representatives that it might be risky to come back on Monday as scheduled, Ms. Pelosi abandoned plans to do so. The House will now return May 11. But Mr. McConnell decided to bring the Senate back into session on Monday.This week, after Dr. Monahan warned the House of Representatives that it might be risky to come back on Monday as scheduled, Ms. Pelosi abandoned plans to do so. The House will now return May 11. But Mr. McConnell decided to bring the Senate back into session on Monday.
Without sufficient diagnostic testing, some senators feared that the Capitol — where senators are surrounded by aides and a vast support staff of food service workers, custodians and other personnel — would become a mini hot spot for the virus.Without sufficient diagnostic testing, some senators feared that the Capitol — where senators are surrounded by aides and a vast support staff of food service workers, custodians and other personnel — would become a mini hot spot for the virus.
More than 150 workers on a construction project at a nuclear power facility in Georgia have tested positive for the virus, and absenteeism has “increased dramatically,” according to documents and a spokesman for Georgia Power, the utility company that is a part owner of the facility.More than 150 workers on a construction project at a nuclear power facility in Georgia have tested positive for the virus, and absenteeism has “increased dramatically,” according to documents and a spokesman for Georgia Power, the utility company that is a part owner of the facility.
The facility, Plant Vogtle, is near Waynesboro, Ga., about 150 miles east of Atlanta, and has been in operation since 1987. It is in the middle of a multibillion-dollar expansion that has been plagued with setbacks, including construction problems, cost overruns and the 2016 bankruptcy of Westinghouse, its lead contractor.The facility, Plant Vogtle, is near Waynesboro, Ga., about 150 miles east of Atlanta, and has been in operation since 1987. It is in the middle of a multibillion-dollar expansion that has been plagued with setbacks, including construction problems, cost overruns and the 2016 bankruptcy of Westinghouse, its lead contractor.
As of March, the expansion employed more than 9,000 workers, making it the largest construction project in the state, according to North America’s Building Trades Unions, which represents many of the Vogtle workers.As of March, the expansion employed more than 9,000 workers, making it the largest construction project in the state, according to North America’s Building Trades Unions, which represents many of the Vogtle workers.
But after concerns about the spread of the virus mounted in recent weeks, the plant’s owners reduced the work force on the expansion project by 20 percent.But after concerns about the spread of the virus mounted in recent weeks, the plant’s owners reduced the work force on the expansion project by 20 percent.
Of the 171 workers found to have the virus, 90 are “active confirmed positive cases” and 81 are workers who recovered and are “available to return to work,” John Kraft, the spokesman for Georgia Power, said in an email late Thursday. Mr. Kraft said that 439 workers tested negative, and that 48 were awaiting test results.Of the 171 workers found to have the virus, 90 are “active confirmed positive cases” and 81 are workers who recovered and are “available to return to work,” John Kraft, the spokesman for Georgia Power, said in an email late Thursday. Mr. Kraft said that 439 workers tested negative, and that 48 were awaiting test results.
The owners learned of the first worker to test positive on April 4, Mr. Kraft said. Around that time, some workers told a local TV station that they were concerned that not enough was being done to protect on the work site.The owners learned of the first worker to test positive on April 4, Mr. Kraft said. Around that time, some workers told a local TV station that they were concerned that not enough was being done to protect on the work site.
The smaller work force, Mr. Kraft said, will allow for increased social distancing. The site has banned large group meetings, expanded an on-site medical clinic and added portable bathrooms and hand-washing stations, among other changes. And testing will continue.The smaller work force, Mr. Kraft said, will allow for increased social distancing. The site has banned large group meetings, expanded an on-site medical clinic and added portable bathrooms and hand-washing stations, among other changes. And testing will continue.
A day after a boisterous rally that drew hundreds of people, some of them armed, to Michigan’s capitol to protest strict statewide stay-at-home orders, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer lifted some restrictions in the state, agreeing to allow some construction and outdoor work to resume May 7.A day after a boisterous rally that drew hundreds of people, some of them armed, to Michigan’s capitol to protest strict statewide stay-at-home orders, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer lifted some restrictions in the state, agreeing to allow some construction and outdoor work to resume May 7.
The construction work includes companies that manufacture partitions and cubicles that eventually will allow for people to safely return to offices and other businesses, she said.The construction work includes companies that manufacture partitions and cubicles that eventually will allow for people to safely return to offices and other businesses, she said.
“It’s going to be one step at a time, in increments,” Ms. Whitmer said of her decisions on reopening parts of the state’s economy.“It’s going to be one step at a time, in increments,” Ms. Whitmer said of her decisions on reopening parts of the state’s economy.
The governor spoke Friday afternoon at a news conference, which she opened by thanking janitors who cleaned up after Thursday’s rally and security officers who kept order during an event she called “disturbing.” The rally included unmasked protesters who did not adhere to social-distancing rules and who the governor said were wielding assault rifles, confederate flags and swastikas.The governor spoke Friday afternoon at a news conference, which she opened by thanking janitors who cleaned up after Thursday’s rally and security officers who kept order during an event she called “disturbing.” The rally included unmasked protesters who did not adhere to social-distancing rules and who the governor said were wielding assault rifles, confederate flags and swastikas.
President Trump on Friday urged Ms. Whitmer to “give a little,” writing that the protesters were “very good people, but they are angry.”President Trump on Friday urged Ms. Whitmer to “give a little,” writing that the protesters were “very good people, but they are angry.”
“I know some people are angry and I know many people are feeling restless and are itching to get back to work,” Ms. Whitmer said. “There’s nothing I want more than to just flip the switch and get back to normal, but that’s not how it’s going to work unfortunately.”“I know some people are angry and I know many people are feeling restless and are itching to get back to work,” Ms. Whitmer said. “There’s nothing I want more than to just flip the switch and get back to normal, but that’s not how it’s going to work unfortunately.”
Michigan is one of several states with a Democratic governor and Republican-controlled legislature that is mired in partisan bitterness. Ms. Whitmer on Thursday had signed emergency orders extending some of the most severe stay-at-home orders in the nation after Republican lawmakers had blocked her other attempts to extend stay-at-home orders.Michigan is one of several states with a Democratic governor and Republican-controlled legislature that is mired in partisan bitterness. Ms. Whitmer on Thursday had signed emergency orders extending some of the most severe stay-at-home orders in the nation after Republican lawmakers had blocked her other attempts to extend stay-at-home orders.
Asked about Mr. Trump’s tweet, Ms. Whitmer emphasized that the crisis facing the state was not a political crisis that could be negotiated away, but a crisis of public health.Asked about Mr. Trump’s tweet, Ms. Whitmer emphasized that the crisis facing the state was not a political crisis that could be negotiated away, but a crisis of public health.
“We have to listen not to pollsters and not just people with political agendas but to epidemiologists,” she said, adding, “We’re making decisions based on science, not on a tweet.”“We have to listen not to pollsters and not just people with political agendas but to epidemiologists,” she said, adding, “We’re making decisions based on science, not on a tweet.”
At least 4,193 workers at 115 meatpacking plants in the United States have been infected with the virus, according to a report released Friday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.At least 4,193 workers at 115 meatpacking plants in the United States have been infected with the virus, according to a report released Friday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Twenty of those workers have died, the report said. And the data almost certainly understates the scale of the problem, because not all states with infections at meat plants have reported figures to the C.D.C.Twenty of those workers have died, the report said. And the data almost certainly understates the scale of the problem, because not all states with infections at meat plants have reported figures to the C.D.C.
In total, the meat and poultry processing industry employs about half a million people, many of whom work in cramped conditions in slaughterhouses where social distancing is practically impossible. Over the last month, dozens of meatpacking plants have been forced to close because of outbreaks, straining the country’s meat supply.In total, the meat and poultry processing industry employs about half a million people, many of whom work in cramped conditions in slaughterhouses where social distancing is practically impossible. Over the last month, dozens of meatpacking plants have been forced to close because of outbreaks, straining the country’s meat supply.
This week, the president issued an executive order that gave officials at the Department of Agriculture the authority to take some limited actions to keep plants running, even when local authorities call for them to close.This week, the president issued an executive order that gave officials at the Department of Agriculture the authority to take some limited actions to keep plants running, even when local authorities call for them to close.
The C.D.C. report also lays out recommendations for meatpacking plants to keep workers safe, like installing barriers between workers and requiring face covering.The C.D.C. report also lays out recommendations for meatpacking plants to keep workers safe, like installing barriers between workers and requiring face covering.
U.S. stocks fell on Friday as investors reacted to signs of growing tensions between China and the United States as well as earnings reports by Apple and Amazon that showed the depth of the pandemic’s impact on big business.U.S. stocks fell on Friday as investors reacted to signs of growing tensions between China and the United States as well as earnings reports by Apple and Amazon that showed the depth of the pandemic’s impact on big business.
Both the S&P 500 and the tech-heavy Nasdaq composite fell about 3 percent.Both the S&P 500 and the tech-heavy Nasdaq composite fell about 3 percent.
Amazon shares dropped by more than 7 percent. Jeff Bezos, the company’s founder, said the expense of protecting workers, including providing protective equipment and tests, could swing the company to a loss of as much as $1.5 billion in the current quarter.Amazon shares dropped by more than 7 percent. Jeff Bezos, the company’s founder, said the expense of protecting workers, including providing protective equipment and tests, could swing the company to a loss of as much as $1.5 billion in the current quarter.
Apple stock dipped, after the company refused on Thursday to give any estimates for the current quarter. But the tech giant signaled confidence by announcing another big stock buyback, and said that its first-quarter revenue rose nearly 1 percent to $58.3 billion, despite lockdowns in China, where it assembles nearly all of its products.Apple stock dipped, after the company refused on Thursday to give any estimates for the current quarter. But the tech giant signaled confidence by announcing another big stock buyback, and said that its first-quarter revenue rose nearly 1 percent to $58.3 billion, despite lockdowns in China, where it assembles nearly all of its products.
Investors also grew leery of signs of a returning U.S.-China strain as the Trump administration moved to take a more aggressive stand against China. White House aides prodded President Trump this week to issue an order to block a government pension fund from investing in Chinese companies, officials said — a move that could upend capital flows across the Pacific.Investors also grew leery of signs of a returning U.S.-China strain as the Trump administration moved to take a more aggressive stand against China. White House aides prodded President Trump this week to issue an order to block a government pension fund from investing in Chinese companies, officials said — a move that could upend capital flows across the Pacific.
And the administration is cutting off grants that would help support virology laboratories in Wuhan, China, the city where the virus outbreak began.And the administration is cutting off grants that would help support virology laboratories in Wuhan, China, the city where the virus outbreak began.
Senior aides have asked intelligence agencies to continue looking for any evidence to support an unsubstantiated theory that the pandemic might be the result of an accidental lab leak, even though agency analysts have said they most likely will not find proof.Senior aides have asked intelligence agencies to continue looking for any evidence to support an unsubstantiated theory that the pandemic might be the result of an accidental lab leak, even though agency analysts have said they most likely will not find proof.
The open rivalry between the two nations has taken on a much darker shading since the virus spread. China is likely to emerge from the recession caused by the pandemic faster than other nations, and America will probably rely on economic activity in Asia to help prop up its own economy.The open rivalry between the two nations has taken on a much darker shading since the virus spread. China is likely to emerge from the recession caused by the pandemic faster than other nations, and America will probably rely on economic activity in Asia to help prop up its own economy.
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Shaken by economic hardship, health fears and uncertainty about when campuses will reopen, many high school seniors appear to be putting off a decision about where to go to college in the fall — or whether to go at all.Shaken by economic hardship, health fears and uncertainty about when campuses will reopen, many high school seniors appear to be putting off a decision about where to go to college in the fall — or whether to go at all.
College admissions officers are reluctant to admit weakness, meaning there is little hard data at this point. But there are clear signs of concern about plummeting enrollment and lost revenue. Of some 700 universities with a May 1 acceptance deadline, which include many of the country’s most competitive, about half have already given students an extra month to decide, said Marie Bigham, founder of Accept, a college admissions reform group.College admissions officers are reluctant to admit weakness, meaning there is little hard data at this point. But there are clear signs of concern about plummeting enrollment and lost revenue. Of some 700 universities with a May 1 acceptance deadline, which include many of the country’s most competitive, about half have already given students an extra month to decide, said Marie Bigham, founder of Accept, a college admissions reform group.
Johnny Kennevan, a senior at Seneca High School in Tabernacle, N.J., was recruited to play basketball at York College in Pennsylvania. But his plans would most likely change if the campus is still closed, he said.Johnny Kennevan, a senior at Seneca High School in Tabernacle, N.J., was recruited to play basketball at York College in Pennsylvania. But his plans would most likely change if the campus is still closed, he said.
“It doesn’t make sense to pay 20 grand to sit at my computer at home and take online courses,” he said. “You can get the same education from a community college.”“It doesn’t make sense to pay 20 grand to sit at my computer at home and take online courses,” he said. “You can get the same education from a community college.”
Updated June 22, 2020 Updated June 24, 2020
Scientists around the country have tried to identify everyday materials that do a good job of filtering microscopic particles. In recent tests, HEPA furnace filters scored high, as did vacuum cleaner bags, fabric similar to flannel pajamas and those of 600-count pillowcases. Other materials tested included layered coffee filters and scarves and bandannas. These scored lower, but still captured a small percentage of particles.
A commentary published this month on the website of the British Journal of Sports Medicine points out that covering your face during exercise “comes with issues of potential breathing restriction and discomfort” and requires “balancing benefits versus possible adverse events.” Masks do alter exercise, says Cedric X. Bryant, the president and chief science officer of the American Council on Exercise, a nonprofit organization that funds exercise research and certifies fitness professionals. “In my personal experience,” he says, “heart rates are higher at the same relative intensity when you wear a mask.” Some people also could experience lightheadedness during familiar workouts while masked, says Len Kravitz, a professor of exercise science at the University of New Mexico.A commentary published this month on the website of the British Journal of Sports Medicine points out that covering your face during exercise “comes with issues of potential breathing restriction and discomfort” and requires “balancing benefits versus possible adverse events.” Masks do alter exercise, says Cedric X. Bryant, the president and chief science officer of the American Council on Exercise, a nonprofit organization that funds exercise research and certifies fitness professionals. “In my personal experience,” he says, “heart rates are higher at the same relative intensity when you wear a mask.” Some people also could experience lightheadedness during familiar workouts while masked, says Len Kravitz, a professor of exercise science at the University of New Mexico.
The steroid, dexamethasone, is the first treatment shown to reduce mortality in severely ill patients, according to scientists in Britain. The drug appears to reduce inflammation caused by the immune system, protecting the tissues. In the study, dexamethasone reduced deaths of patients on ventilators by one-third, and deaths of patients on oxygen by one-fifth.The steroid, dexamethasone, is the first treatment shown to reduce mortality in severely ill patients, according to scientists in Britain. The drug appears to reduce inflammation caused by the immune system, protecting the tissues. In the study, dexamethasone reduced deaths of patients on ventilators by one-third, and deaths of patients on oxygen by one-fifth.
The coronavirus emergency relief package gives many American workers paid leave if they need to take time off because of the virus. It gives qualified workers two weeks of paid sick leave if they are ill, quarantined or seeking diagnosis or preventive care for coronavirus, or if they are caring for sick family members. It gives 12 weeks of paid leave to people caring for children whose schools are closed or whose child care provider is unavailable because of the coronavirus. It is the first time the United States has had widespread federally mandated paid leave, and includes people who don’t typically get such benefits, like part-time and gig economy workers. But the measure excludes at least half of private-sector workers, including those at the country’s largest employers, and gives small employers significant leeway to deny leave.The coronavirus emergency relief package gives many American workers paid leave if they need to take time off because of the virus. It gives qualified workers two weeks of paid sick leave if they are ill, quarantined or seeking diagnosis or preventive care for coronavirus, or if they are caring for sick family members. It gives 12 weeks of paid leave to people caring for children whose schools are closed or whose child care provider is unavailable because of the coronavirus. It is the first time the United States has had widespread federally mandated paid leave, and includes people who don’t typically get such benefits, like part-time and gig economy workers. But the measure excludes at least half of private-sector workers, including those at the country’s largest employers, and gives small employers significant leeway to deny leave.
So far, the evidence seems to show it does. A widely cited paper published in April suggests that people are most infectious about two days before the onset of coronavirus symptoms and estimated that 44 percent of new infections were a result of transmission from people who were not yet showing symptoms. Recently, a top expert at the World Health Organization stated that transmission of the coronavirus by people who did not have symptoms was “very rare,” but she later walked back that statement.So far, the evidence seems to show it does. A widely cited paper published in April suggests that people are most infectious about two days before the onset of coronavirus symptoms and estimated that 44 percent of new infections were a result of transmission from people who were not yet showing symptoms. Recently, a top expert at the World Health Organization stated that transmission of the coronavirus by people who did not have symptoms was “very rare,” but she later walked back that statement.
Touching contaminated objects and then infecting ourselves with the germs is not typically how the virus spreads. But it can happen. A number of studies of flu, rhinovirus, coronavirus and other microbes have shown that respiratory illnesses, including the new coronavirus, can spread by touching contaminated surfaces, particularly in places like day care centers, offices and hospitals. But a long chain of events has to happen for the disease to spread that way. The best way to protect yourself from coronavirus — whether it’s surface transmission or close human contact — is still social distancing, washing your hands, not touching your face and wearing masks.Touching contaminated objects and then infecting ourselves with the germs is not typically how the virus spreads. But it can happen. A number of studies of flu, rhinovirus, coronavirus and other microbes have shown that respiratory illnesses, including the new coronavirus, can spread by touching contaminated surfaces, particularly in places like day care centers, offices and hospitals. But a long chain of events has to happen for the disease to spread that way. The best way to protect yourself from coronavirus — whether it’s surface transmission or close human contact — is still social distancing, washing your hands, not touching your face and wearing masks.
A study by European scientists is the first to document a strong statistical link between genetic variations and Covid-19, the illness caused by the coronavirus. Having Type A blood was linked to a 50 percent increase in the likelihood that a patient would need to get oxygen or to go on a ventilator, according to the new study.A study by European scientists is the first to document a strong statistical link between genetic variations and Covid-19, the illness caused by the coronavirus. Having Type A blood was linked to a 50 percent increase in the likelihood that a patient would need to get oxygen or to go on a ventilator, according to the new study.
The unemployment rate fell to 13.3 percent in May, the Labor Department said on June 5, an unexpected improvement in the nation’s job market as hiring rebounded faster than economists expected. Economists had forecast the unemployment rate to increase to as much as 20 percent, after it hit 14.7 percent in April, which was the highest since the government began keeping official statistics after World War II. But the unemployment rate dipped instead, with employers adding 2.5 million jobs, after more than 20 million jobs were lost in April.The unemployment rate fell to 13.3 percent in May, the Labor Department said on June 5, an unexpected improvement in the nation’s job market as hiring rebounded faster than economists expected. Economists had forecast the unemployment rate to increase to as much as 20 percent, after it hit 14.7 percent in April, which was the highest since the government began keeping official statistics after World War II. But the unemployment rate dipped instead, with employers adding 2.5 million jobs, after more than 20 million jobs were lost in April.
States are reopening bit by bit. This means that more public spaces are available for use and more and more businesses are being allowed to open again. The federal government is largely leaving the decision up to states, and some state leaders are leaving the decision up to local authorities. Even if you aren’t being told to stay at home, it’s still a good idea to limit trips outside and your interaction with other people.
Common symptoms include fever, a dry cough, fatigue and difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. Some of these symptoms overlap with those of the flu, making detection difficult, but runny noses and stuffy sinuses are less common. The C.D.C. has also added chills, muscle pain, sore throat, headache and a new loss of the sense of taste or smell as symptoms to look out for. Most people fall ill five to seven days after exposure, but symptoms may appear in as few as two days or as many as 14 days.Common symptoms include fever, a dry cough, fatigue and difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. Some of these symptoms overlap with those of the flu, making detection difficult, but runny noses and stuffy sinuses are less common. The C.D.C. has also added chills, muscle pain, sore throat, headache and a new loss of the sense of taste or smell as symptoms to look out for. Most people fall ill five to seven days after exposure, but symptoms may appear in as few as two days or as many as 14 days.
If air travel is unavoidable, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself. Most important: Wash your hands often, and stop touching your face. If possible, choose a window seat. A study from Emory University found that during flu season, the safest place to sit on a plane is by a window, as people sitting in window seats had less contact with potentially sick people. Disinfect hard surfaces. When you get to your seat and your hands are clean, use disinfecting wipes to clean the hard surfaces at your seat like the head and arm rest, the seatbelt buckle, the remote, screen, seat back pocket and the tray table. If the seat is hard and nonporous or leather or pleather, you can wipe that down, too. (Using wipes on upholstered seats could lead to a wet seat and spreading of germs rather than killing them.)If air travel is unavoidable, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself. Most important: Wash your hands often, and stop touching your face. If possible, choose a window seat. A study from Emory University found that during flu season, the safest place to sit on a plane is by a window, as people sitting in window seats had less contact with potentially sick people. Disinfect hard surfaces. When you get to your seat and your hands are clean, use disinfecting wipes to clean the hard surfaces at your seat like the head and arm rest, the seatbelt buckle, the remote, screen, seat back pocket and the tray table. If the seat is hard and nonporous or leather or pleather, you can wipe that down, too. (Using wipes on upholstered seats could lead to a wet seat and spreading of germs rather than killing them.)
If you’ve been exposed to the coronavirus or think you have, and have a fever or symptoms like a cough or difficulty breathing, call a doctor. They should give you advice on whether you should be tested, how to get tested, and how to seek medical treatment without potentially infecting or exposing others.If you’ve been exposed to the coronavirus or think you have, and have a fever or symptoms like a cough or difficulty breathing, call a doctor. They should give you advice on whether you should be tested, how to get tested, and how to seek medical treatment without potentially infecting or exposing others.
If you’re sick and you think you’ve been exposed to the new coronavirus, the C.D.C. recommends that you call your healthcare provider and explain your symptoms and fears. They will decide if you need to be tested. Keep in mind that there’s a chance — because of a lack of testing kits or because you’re asymptomatic, for instance — you won’t be able to get tested.
Some schools are waiving deposit requirements, particularly for international students. And experts say that the number of wait-listed students who are now getting offers shows that even some of the most selective schools are acting more aggressively to fill freshman classes.Some schools are waiving deposit requirements, particularly for international students. And experts say that the number of wait-listed students who are now getting offers shows that even some of the most selective schools are acting more aggressively to fill freshman classes.
Since colleges abruptly shut down campus operations and moved to online learning, they have announced hundreds of millions of dollars in losses and say that a $14 billion federal aid package will not be nearly enough to keep struggling schools afloat. Executives have taken pay cuts, endowments have shrunk, hiring has been frozen and construction projects have stopped.Since colleges abruptly shut down campus operations and moved to online learning, they have announced hundreds of millions of dollars in losses and say that a $14 billion federal aid package will not be nearly enough to keep struggling schools afloat. Executives have taken pay cuts, endowments have shrunk, hiring has been frozen and construction projects have stopped.
But experts say that is only the beginning if schools cannot persuade students to return in the fall, when many campuses are bracing for the possibility that online learning could continue.But experts say that is only the beginning if schools cannot persuade students to return in the fall, when many campuses are bracing for the possibility that online learning could continue.
Across the country this week, Americans whose governors said it was time to return to work wrestled with what felt like an impossible choice.Across the country this week, Americans whose governors said it was time to return to work wrestled with what felt like an impossible choice.
If they go back, will they get sick and infect their families? If they refuse, will they lose their jobs? What if they work on tips and there are no customers? If they are businesses owners, will there be enough work to rehire employees?If they go back, will they get sick and infect their families? If they refuse, will they lose their jobs? What if they work on tips and there are no customers? If they are businesses owners, will there be enough work to rehire employees?
When Maine announced this week that hair salons could reopen, Sarah Kyllonen, a stylist in Lewiston, stayed up late wondering what to do, feeling overwhelmed.When Maine announced this week that hair salons could reopen, Sarah Kyllonen, a stylist in Lewiston, stayed up late wondering what to do, feeling overwhelmed.
The virus still scared her. It seemed too soon to open up. Then again, her bills had not stopped and her unemployment benefits had not started, and she was starting to worry about next month’s rent. “It’s an extremely hard decision for all of us,” she said. “I want to go back to work. I want to have the money. I want to see people. But it’s hard because I’m worried about the virus coming back around.”The virus still scared her. It seemed too soon to open up. Then again, her bills had not stopped and her unemployment benefits had not started, and she was starting to worry about next month’s rent. “It’s an extremely hard decision for all of us,” she said. “I want to go back to work. I want to have the money. I want to see people. But it’s hard because I’m worried about the virus coming back around.”
Los Angeles has become the largest city in the country to offer free testing to anyone, regardless of symptoms, a significant ramping up of testing that officials in California have said is required to take even tentative steps to open the economy.Los Angeles has become the largest city in the country to offer free testing to anyone, regardless of symptoms, a significant ramping up of testing that officials in California have said is required to take even tentative steps to open the economy.
On Thursday, the first day of free testing for all in Los Angeles, nearly 10,000 people were tested, about three times the previous day. Mayor Eric M. Garcetti announced that any of Los Angeles County’s 12 million residents could get a free test at any of the city’s testing sites, though county health officials are still advising testing be limited to those with symptoms and the most vulnerable.On Thursday, the first day of free testing for all in Los Angeles, nearly 10,000 people were tested, about three times the previous day. Mayor Eric M. Garcetti announced that any of Los Angeles County’s 12 million residents could get a free test at any of the city’s testing sites, though county health officials are still advising testing be limited to those with symptoms and the most vulnerable.
Mr. Garcetti said the city had hundreds of thousands of test kits on hand and would be buying more.Mr. Garcetti said the city had hundreds of thousands of test kits on hand and would be buying more.
“You don’t have to wonder if that cough is Covid,” he said Thursday at a news conference. “You don’t have to wonder if you were exposed to somebody you know had or you think had Covid. You can go get tested now.”“You don’t have to wonder if that cough is Covid,” he said Thursday at a news conference. “You don’t have to wonder if you were exposed to somebody you know had or you think had Covid. You can go get tested now.”
Before the outbreak, Dr. Lindy Fox, a dermatologist in San Francisco, used to see four or five patients a year with chilblains — painful red or purple lesions that typically emerge on fingers or toes in the winter. Over the past few weeks, she has seen dozens.Before the outbreak, Dr. Lindy Fox, a dermatologist in San Francisco, used to see four or five patients a year with chilblains — painful red or purple lesions that typically emerge on fingers or toes in the winter. Over the past few weeks, she has seen dozens.
“All of a sudden, we are inundated with toes,” Dr. Fox said. “I’ve got clinics filled with people coming in with new toe lesions.”“All of a sudden, we are inundated with toes,” Dr. Fox said. “I’ve got clinics filled with people coming in with new toe lesions.”
The lesions are emerging as yet another telltale symptom of infection with the virus. The most prominent signs are a dry cough and shortness of breath, but the virus has been linked to unusual and diverse effects, like mental confusion and a diminished sense of smell.The lesions are emerging as yet another telltale symptom of infection with the virus. The most prominent signs are a dry cough and shortness of breath, but the virus has been linked to unusual and diverse effects, like mental confusion and a diminished sense of smell.
Most cases have been reported in children, teens and young adults. Scientists are just beginning to study the phenomenon, but so far chilblain-like lesions appear to signal a mild or even asymptomatic infection. They may also develop several weeks after the acute phase of an infection is over.Most cases have been reported in children, teens and young adults. Scientists are just beginning to study the phenomenon, but so far chilblain-like lesions appear to signal a mild or even asymptomatic infection. They may also develop several weeks after the acute phase of an infection is over.
It is unclear why the new virus might cause chilblain-like lesions. One hypothesis is that they are caused by inflammation, a prominent feature of Covid-19.It is unclear why the new virus might cause chilblain-like lesions. One hypothesis is that they are caused by inflammation, a prominent feature of Covid-19.
The move, amid increasing criticism from the Trump administration about its handling of the pandemic, comes three months after the organization’s original decision to announce a “public health emergency of international concern” on Jan. 30. At the time, only 98 of the nearly 10,000 cases confirmed had occurred outside China’s borders.The move, amid increasing criticism from the Trump administration about its handling of the pandemic, comes three months after the organization’s original decision to announce a “public health emergency of international concern” on Jan. 30. At the time, only 98 of the nearly 10,000 cases confirmed had occurred outside China’s borders.
But the pandemic continues to grow. More than 3.2 million people around the world have been sickened by the virus and nearly a quarter million have died, according to official counts. Hot spots have moved outside China; there is evidence on six continents of sustained transmission.But the pandemic continues to grow. More than 3.2 million people around the world have been sickened by the virus and nearly a quarter million have died, according to official counts. Hot spots have moved outside China; there is evidence on six continents of sustained transmission.
All of this led experts in the W.H.O.’s emergency committee to reconvene to assess the evolution of the pandemic, and to advise on updated recommendations, officials said.All of this led experts in the W.H.O.’s emergency committee to reconvene to assess the evolution of the pandemic, and to advise on updated recommendations, officials said.
There has been a rapid rise in new cases in Africa and South America, where many countries have weak health care systems that could easily be overwhelmed. The acceleration is concerning because the growth rate of the virus has appeared to slow in many other countries in Asia and Europe.There has been a rapid rise in new cases in Africa and South America, where many countries have weak health care systems that could easily be overwhelmed. The acceleration is concerning because the growth rate of the virus has appeared to slow in many other countries in Asia and Europe.
Although people are slowly starting to return to work in China after weeks of lockdowns, nonessential stores are still shuttered in most parts of the world and the virus has badly damaged the economy.Although people are slowly starting to return to work in China after weeks of lockdowns, nonessential stores are still shuttered in most parts of the world and the virus has badly damaged the economy.
The Trump administration has cut off funding for the organization, claiming without evidence that W.H.O. officials colluded with China to obscure the extent of the epidemic in its early days. Political strategists have advised Republicans that blaming China, and by extension the W.H.O., is an effective deflection from criticism of the administration’s own handling of the epidemic in the United States.The Trump administration has cut off funding for the organization, claiming without evidence that W.H.O. officials colluded with China to obscure the extent of the epidemic in its early days. Political strategists have advised Republicans that blaming China, and by extension the W.H.O., is an effective deflection from criticism of the administration’s own handling of the epidemic in the United States.
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin wants private schools with large endowments to return federal stimulus loans they received from a program intended for small businesses hit hard by the pandemic.Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin wants private schools with large endowments to return federal stimulus loans they received from a program intended for small businesses hit hard by the pandemic.
In a tweet, Mr. Mnuchin said Friday, “It has come to our attention that some private schools with significant endowments” have taken the loans. “They should return them,” he said.In a tweet, Mr. Mnuchin said Friday, “It has come to our attention that some private schools with significant endowments” have taken the loans. “They should return them,” he said.
Many prominent prep schools have applied for the loans, which are being issued by the Small Business Administration to help businesses meet their payroll needs, The New York Times reported this week. Some decided not to take the loans because of their other resources, but others said they needed the money.Many prominent prep schools have applied for the loans, which are being issued by the Small Business Administration to help businesses meet their payroll needs, The New York Times reported this week. Some decided not to take the loans because of their other resources, but others said they needed the money.
The recipients include Sidwell Friends in Washington, D.C., the alma mater of President Obama’s and President Clinton’s children, and St. Andrew’s Episcopal School in Potomac, Md., which counts the president’s youngest son as a student.The recipients include Sidwell Friends in Washington, D.C., the alma mater of President Obama’s and President Clinton’s children, and St. Andrew’s Episcopal School in Potomac, Md., which counts the president’s youngest son as a student.
The Los Angeles Times reported on Thursday that a private school in Los Angeles attended by at least two of Mr. Mnuchin’s children had also accepted a loan, and that a spokeswoman for Mr. Mnuchin had described the arrangement as inappropriate.The Los Angeles Times reported on Thursday that a private school in Los Angeles attended by at least two of Mr. Mnuchin’s children had also accepted a loan, and that a spokeswoman for Mr. Mnuchin had described the arrangement as inappropriate.
In his tweet on Friday, Mr. Mnuchin did not specify what qualified as a significant endowment. Sidwell Friends has an endowment of roughly $50 million, while St. Andrews indicated in a 2017 tax filing that its endowment was about $9 million.In his tweet on Friday, Mr. Mnuchin did not specify what qualified as a significant endowment. Sidwell Friends has an endowment of roughly $50 million, while St. Andrews indicated in a 2017 tax filing that its endowment was about $9 million.
Run by the S.B.A., the $660 billion aid program — formally known as the Paycheck Protection Program — has been criticized for providing funds to large public companies ahead of Main Street small businesses like restaurants and shops.Run by the S.B.A., the $660 billion aid program — formally known as the Paycheck Protection Program — has been criticized for providing funds to large public companies ahead of Main Street small businesses like restaurants and shops.
The money comes in the form of loans, backed by the S.B.A., that can be forgiven if recipients put most of it toward payroll needs.The money comes in the form of loans, backed by the S.B.A., that can be forgiven if recipients put most of it toward payroll needs.
The press secretary, Kayleigh McEnany, began the briefing on Friday by announcing that the Trump administration plans to distribute $12 billion to 395 hospitals across the country. Ms. McEnany, who started last month, said New York, New Jersey and Illinois received the most funding, by state.The press secretary, Kayleigh McEnany, began the briefing on Friday by announcing that the Trump administration plans to distribute $12 billion to 395 hospitals across the country. Ms. McEnany, who started last month, said New York, New Jersey and Illinois received the most funding, by state.
The White House hadn’t held a briefing since March 11, 2019, when Sarah Huckabee Sanders took the lectern for the last time. Her successor in the job, Stephanie Grisham, completed her short tenure in the position without ever holding a news conference. Ms. McEnany is expected to hold semiregular news briefings. But White House officials said it would not be a daily briefing, but rather a supplement to Mr. Trump’s own sessions with reporters.The White House hadn’t held a briefing since March 11, 2019, when Sarah Huckabee Sanders took the lectern for the last time. Her successor in the job, Stephanie Grisham, completed her short tenure in the position without ever holding a news conference. Ms. McEnany is expected to hold semiregular news briefings. But White House officials said it would not be a daily briefing, but rather a supplement to Mr. Trump’s own sessions with reporters.
Ms. McEnany vowed that as she continued holding briefings, “I will never lie to you, you have my word on that.”Ms. McEnany vowed that as she continued holding briefings, “I will never lie to you, you have my word on that.”
But the fact that Ms. McEnany will choose which days she will hold briefings, some critics argued, makes them less of an exercise in transparency and more another part of the White House reality-show-style programming.But the fact that Ms. McEnany will choose which days she will hold briefings, some critics argued, makes them less of an exercise in transparency and more another part of the White House reality-show-style programming.
At Friday’s briefing, Ms. McEnany repeated a number of false or misleading statements that the Trump administration has repeatedly made about China and the World Health Organization.At Friday’s briefing, Ms. McEnany repeated a number of false or misleading statements that the Trump administration has repeatedly made about China and the World Health Organization.
Ms. McEnany ended her first session with a plug for Fox News, encouraging Americans to tune in to a town hall the network, where she formerly served as a contributor, is hosting with Mr. Trump on Sunday. She called it “can’t miss” television, and plugged the high ratings Mr. Trump’s own virus news briefings have earned.Ms. McEnany ended her first session with a plug for Fox News, encouraging Americans to tune in to a town hall the network, where she formerly served as a contributor, is hosting with Mr. Trump on Sunday. She called it “can’t miss” television, and plugged the high ratings Mr. Trump’s own virus news briefings have earned.
With more than 18,000 announced fatalities and a total death toll that is almost certainly higher, the crisis is the worst mass-casualty event to hit New York since the Spanish flu pandemic a century ago.With more than 18,000 announced fatalities and a total death toll that is almost certainly higher, the crisis is the worst mass-casualty event to hit New York since the Spanish flu pandemic a century ago.
At the height of the outbreak in April, a New Yorker was dying almost every two minutes — more than 800 per day, or four times the city’s normal death rate. And though the daily toll has recently slowed, hundreds of bodies are still emerging each day from private homes and hospitals.At the height of the outbreak in April, a New Yorker was dying almost every two minutes — more than 800 per day, or four times the city’s normal death rate. And though the daily toll has recently slowed, hundreds of bodies are still emerging each day from private homes and hospitals.
While hospitals bore the initial brunt of the crisis as sick people flooded emergency rooms, the sheer volume of human remains has pushed the system for caring for the dead to its limits, too: Hospital morgues, funeral homes, cemeteries and crematories are all overflowing and backed up.While hospitals bore the initial brunt of the crisis as sick people flooded emergency rooms, the sheer volume of human remains has pushed the system for caring for the dead to its limits, too: Hospital morgues, funeral homes, cemeteries and crematories are all overflowing and backed up.
“The death rate is just so high,” one funeral director said, “there’s no way we can bury or cremate them fast enough.”“The death rate is just so high,” one funeral director said, “there’s no way we can bury or cremate them fast enough.”
With a flood of unemployment claims continuing to overwhelm many state agencies, economists say the job losses may be much deeper than government tallies indicate.With a flood of unemployment claims continuing to overwhelm many state agencies, economists say the job losses may be much deeper than government tallies indicate.
The Labor Department said on Thursday that 3.8 million workers filed for unemployment benefits last week, bringing the six-week total to 30 million. But researchers say that as the economy staggers under the weight of the pandemic, millions of others have lost jobs but have yet to appear in the figures.The Labor Department said on Thursday that 3.8 million workers filed for unemployment benefits last week, bringing the six-week total to 30 million. But researchers say that as the economy staggers under the weight of the pandemic, millions of others have lost jobs but have yet to appear in the figures.
A study by the Economic Policy Institute found that roughly 50 percent more people than counted as filing claims in a recent four-week period may have qualified for benefits — with the difference representing those who were stymied in applying or who did not even try because the process was too formidable.A study by the Economic Policy Institute found that roughly 50 percent more people than counted as filing claims in a recent four-week period may have qualified for benefits — with the difference representing those who were stymied in applying or who did not even try because the process was too formidable.
“The problem is even bigger than the data suggest,” said Elise Gould, a senior economist with the institute, a left-leaning research group. “We’re undercounting the economic pain.”“The problem is even bigger than the data suggest,” said Elise Gould, a senior economist with the institute, a left-leaning research group. “We’re undercounting the economic pain.”
As unemployment soars nationwide, tenants rights groups and community nonprofits have rallied around an audacious goal: to persuade the government to halt rent and mortgage payments — without back payments accruing — for as long as the economy is battered by the virus.As unemployment soars nationwide, tenants rights groups and community nonprofits have rallied around an audacious goal: to persuade the government to halt rent and mortgage payments — without back payments accruing — for as long as the economy is battered by the virus.
The effort has been brewing on social media, with the hashtag #CancelRent and online video rallies, as well as a smattering of in-person protests, frequently held in cars to maintain social distancing.The effort has been brewing on social media, with the hashtag #CancelRent and online video rallies, as well as a smattering of in-person protests, frequently held in cars to maintain social distancing.
But landlords say they are also struggling to pay their bills since many tenants have already been unable to pay rent. They call the advocates’ efforts reckless and say that withholding rent would create cascading consequences, including leaving property owners without the means to pay mortgages and property taxes or to maintain buildings.But landlords say they are also struggling to pay their bills since many tenants have already been unable to pay rent. They call the advocates’ efforts reckless and say that withholding rent would create cascading consequences, including leaving property owners without the means to pay mortgages and property taxes or to maintain buildings.
Still, from New York to Kansas City to Los Angeles, groups have encouraged tenants to withhold payments on Friday, the due date for May rent, aiming to create pressure for an expansion of affordable housing and tenant-friendly legislation.Still, from New York to Kansas City to Los Angeles, groups have encouraged tenants to withhold payments on Friday, the due date for May rent, aiming to create pressure for an expansion of affordable housing and tenant-friendly legislation.
To cancel rent and mortgage payments, the federal government would have to take sweeping and possibly unconstitutional intervention in the housing and financial markets, interceding in private contracts and ordering banks and landlords not to collect money.To cancel rent and mortgage payments, the federal government would have to take sweeping and possibly unconstitutional intervention in the housing and financial markets, interceding in private contracts and ordering banks and landlords not to collect money.
While the prospect of this happening is low, the campaigns are less about pushing a particular piece of legislation and more about kindling a mass movement akin to the Occupy Wall Street protests that followed the 2008 financial crisis.While the prospect of this happening is low, the campaigns are less about pushing a particular piece of legislation and more about kindling a mass movement akin to the Occupy Wall Street protests that followed the 2008 financial crisis.
The new Saturday night: With billions of people staying home, the world is reinventing the weekend.The new Saturday night: With billions of people staying home, the world is reinventing the weekend.
Maybe you started this lockdown with good intentions. It’s possible those promises have slipped away. But take heart: It doesn’t take much to get your metabolism going. Here’s how a short burst of activity can help you, and more exercise tips to keep you motivated to move.Maybe you started this lockdown with good intentions. It’s possible those promises have slipped away. But take heart: It doesn’t take much to get your metabolism going. Here’s how a short burst of activity can help you, and more exercise tips to keep you motivated to move.
Reporting was contributed by Mike Baker, Alan Blinder, Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs, Emily Cochrane, Patricia Cohen, Michael Cooper, Maria Cramer, Conor Dougherty, John Eligon, Nicholas Fandos, Richard Fausset, Manny Fernandez, Alan Feuer, Sheri Fink, Jacey Fortin, Thomas Fuller, Matthew Haag, Tiffany Hsu, Shawn Hubler, Annie Karni, John Koblin, Patricia Mazzei, Sarah Mervosh, Andy Newman, Roni Caryn Rabin, William K. Rashbaum, Katie Rogers, Rick Rojas, Simon Romero, Marc Santora, Nelson D. Schwartz, Dionne Searcey, Eliza Shapiro, Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Eileen Sullivan and Sabrina Tavernise.Reporting was contributed by Mike Baker, Alan Blinder, Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs, Emily Cochrane, Patricia Cohen, Michael Cooper, Maria Cramer, Conor Dougherty, John Eligon, Nicholas Fandos, Richard Fausset, Manny Fernandez, Alan Feuer, Sheri Fink, Jacey Fortin, Thomas Fuller, Matthew Haag, Tiffany Hsu, Shawn Hubler, Annie Karni, John Koblin, Patricia Mazzei, Sarah Mervosh, Andy Newman, Roni Caryn Rabin, William K. Rashbaum, Katie Rogers, Rick Rojas, Simon Romero, Marc Santora, Nelson D. Schwartz, Dionne Searcey, Eliza Shapiro, Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Eileen Sullivan and Sabrina Tavernise.