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Coronavirus Live Updates: Azar Castigates W.H.O. at Global Health Meeting Coronavirus Live Updates: Azar Castigates W.H.O. at Global Health Meeting
(32 minutes later)
Alex M. Azar II, the secretary of Health and Human Services, sharply criticized the World Health Organization on Monday, saying its handling of the outbreak in China led to unnecessary deaths.Alex M. Azar II, the secretary of Health and Human Services, sharply criticized the World Health Organization on Monday, saying its handling of the outbreak in China led to unnecessary deaths.
Mr. Azar’s combative remarks, delivered in a prepared video to the World Health Assembly, the global health agency’s annual meeting and its first during the pandemic, is a significant escalation of the Trump administration’s efforts to deflect blame over the United States government’s halting response to the virus.Mr. Azar’s combative remarks, delivered in a prepared video to the World Health Assembly, the global health agency’s annual meeting and its first during the pandemic, is a significant escalation of the Trump administration’s efforts to deflect blame over the United States government’s halting response to the virus.
“We must be frank about one of the primary reasons that this outbreak spun out of control,” Mr. Azar said. “There was a failure by this organization to obtain the information that the world needed, and that failure cost many lives.”“We must be frank about one of the primary reasons that this outbreak spun out of control,” Mr. Azar said. “There was a failure by this organization to obtain the information that the world needed, and that failure cost many lives.”
Mr. Azar’s comments were a strident amplification of criticism by President Trump and Republicans in Congress who have castigated the W.H.O. for what they have described as a bungled response to the outbreak in China by promoting misinformation from Beijing. The health agency has denied the claims and insisted that it was transparent and open.Mr. Azar’s comments were a strident amplification of criticism by President Trump and Republicans in Congress who have castigated the W.H.O. for what they have described as a bungled response to the outbreak in China by promoting misinformation from Beijing. The health agency has denied the claims and insisted that it was transparent and open.
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director general of the W.H.O., on Monday appeared to bow to calls by member states for an evaluation of its handling of the pandemic, saying the agency would review “lessons learned” about its global response. But Mr. Tedros’s remarks did not address Mr. Trump’s demands that the health agency investigate unproven allegations that the virus originated in a lab in China.Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director general of the W.H.O., on Monday appeared to bow to calls by member states for an evaluation of its handling of the pandemic, saying the agency would review “lessons learned” about its global response. But Mr. Tedros’s remarks did not address Mr. Trump’s demands that the health agency investigate unproven allegations that the virus originated in a lab in China.
President Xi Jinping of China, in a pointed challenge to Mr. Trump, offered on Monday to provide $2 billion in the fight against the pandemic and called on other nations to increase their contributions to the W.H.O.President Xi Jinping of China, in a pointed challenge to Mr. Trump, offered on Monday to provide $2 billion in the fight against the pandemic and called on other nations to increase their contributions to the W.H.O.
Mr. Xi’s remarks were likely to ratchet up pressure on Mr. Trump, who last month announced that the United States would withhold its annual contribution of about $550 million to the organization, accusing it of promoting disinformation from China about the outbreak.Mr. Xi’s remarks were likely to ratchet up pressure on Mr. Trump, who last month announced that the United States would withhold its annual contribution of about $550 million to the organization, accusing it of promoting disinformation from China about the outbreak.
In his remarks, Mr. Xi also defended his country’s handling of the outbreak and appeared to brush aside calls for an independent investigation into the origins of the virus — a demand the United States has been promoting — saying such forensics should wait until the crisis had subsided.In his remarks, Mr. Xi also defended his country’s handling of the outbreak and appeared to brush aside calls for an independent investigation into the origins of the virus — a demand the United States has been promoting — saying such forensics should wait until the crisis had subsided.
The $2 billion would be a vast increase in China’s contribution to the W.H.O., which last year totaled $43 million. In April, after the United States announced it would cut funding to the organization, Beijing said it would provide an additional $30 million.The $2 billion would be a vast increase in China’s contribution to the W.H.O., which last year totaled $43 million. In April, after the United States announced it would cut funding to the organization, Beijing said it would provide an additional $30 million.
Mr. Trump said Monday that he has been taking hydroxychloroquine, an antimalarial drug whose effectiveness against the coronavirus is unproven, for about a week and a half as a preventive measure, saying he had no symptoms of Covid-19.
“All I can tell you is, so far I seem to be OK,” he said, explaining that he takes a daily pill.
The Food and Drug Administration issued a safety warning in April about hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine, malaria prevention drugs that have been repeatedly promoted by Mr. Trump and widely used to treat virus patients despite the lack of evidence that they work.
The drugs can cause dangerous abnormalities in heart rhythm in virus patients, the F.D.A. warned, saying that they should be used only in clinical trials or hospitals where patients can be closely monitored for heart problems.
Mr. Trump has in recent weeks stopped talking about the drug that he had been touting as a possible miracle cure. But he volunteered that he was taking it, with approval from the White House physician, at the end of a round table with restaurant owners at the White House.
The outbreak spread to the White House this month, where two members of the staff — one of the president’s personal valets and Katie Miller, the spokeswoman for Vice President Mike Pence — tested positive.
“I want the people of this nation to feel good. I don’t want them being sick,” Mr. Trump said. “And there is a very good chance that this has an impact, especially early on.”
Early studies of hydroxychloroquine in the laboratory showing that the drug could block the virus from attacking cells prompted early enthusiasm. But the studies of the drug in humans so far have largely proved disappointing, and some have pointed to serious side effects in people with heart problems.
“I’m not going to get hurt by it,” Mr. Trump said, claiming he was making the revelation in order to be transparent with Americans. “It has been around for 40 years for malaria, for lupus, for other things. I take it. Front-line workers take it. A lot of doctors take it. I take it.”
In 2018, the White House physician reported that Mr. Trump had an LDL cholesterol level of 143, well above the desired level of 100 or less. Some cardiologists who are not associated with the White House said that his cholesterol levels raised heart concerns.
Mr. Trump made a trip in November to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center that was not listed on his public schedule. He stayed for about two hours for what White House officials said were routine tests, but since the visit had not been revealed in advance and came only nine months after his last annual physical, it touched off much discussion about whether the president had an undisclosed health issue.
Mr. Trump, 73, is the oldest man ever sworn in for a first term as president, and he is known for his love of fast food and takes pride in not exercising. At his checkup last year he weighed 243 pounds, which is considered obese for a man of his reported height of 6-foot-3. He has been reported in the past to be taking rosuvastatin, a lipid-lowering drug, to control his cholesterol.
The drug maker Moderna said on Monday that the first coronavirus vaccine to be tested in people appeared to be safe and able to stimulate an immune response against the virus.The drug maker Moderna said on Monday that the first coronavirus vaccine to be tested in people appeared to be safe and able to stimulate an immune response against the virus.
The findings, which helped give Wall Street its best day in about six weeks, are based on results from the first eight people who each received two doses of the experimental vaccine starting in March.The findings, which helped give Wall Street its best day in about six weeks, are based on results from the first eight people who each received two doses of the experimental vaccine starting in March.
Those people, healthy volunteers ages 18 to 55, made antibodies that were then tested in human cells in the lab and were able to stop the virus from replicating — the key requirement for an effective vaccine. The levels of those so-called neutralizing antibodies matched the levels found in patients who had recovered after contracting the virus in the community. Two more age groups — 55 to 70, and 71 and over — are now being enrolled to test the vaccine.Those people, healthy volunteers ages 18 to 55, made antibodies that were then tested in human cells in the lab and were able to stop the virus from replicating — the key requirement for an effective vaccine. The levels of those so-called neutralizing antibodies matched the levels found in patients who had recovered after contracting the virus in the community. Two more age groups — 55 to 70, and 71 and over — are now being enrolled to test the vaccine.
Though encouraging, the findings do not prove that the vaccine works. Only larger, longer studies can determine whether it can prevent people in the real world from getting sick. Moderna’s technology, involving genetic material from the virus called mRNA, is relatively new and has yet to produce any approved vaccine.Though encouraging, the findings do not prove that the vaccine works. Only larger, longer studies can determine whether it can prevent people in the real world from getting sick. Moderna’s technology, involving genetic material from the virus called mRNA, is relatively new and has yet to produce any approved vaccine.
Moderna produced the vaccine in collaboration with the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, which is led by Dr. Anthony S. Fauci and has been leading the clinical trials. That institute, part of the federal National Institutes of Health, is also involved in research on other experimental coronavirus vaccines.Moderna produced the vaccine in collaboration with the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, which is led by Dr. Anthony S. Fauci and has been leading the clinical trials. That institute, part of the federal National Institutes of Health, is also involved in research on other experimental coronavirus vaccines.
Moderna’s announcement came just a few days after Mr. Trump named leaders for the federal government’s effort to speed up development of a vaccine. The company has said that it is proceeding on an accelerated timetable. The Food and Drug Administration gave Moderna the go-ahead earlier this month for the second phase.Moderna’s announcement came just a few days after Mr. Trump named leaders for the federal government’s effort to speed up development of a vaccine. The company has said that it is proceeding on an accelerated timetable. The Food and Drug Administration gave Moderna the go-ahead earlier this month for the second phase.
If those trials go well, a vaccine could become available for widespread use by the end of this year or early 2021, Dr. Tal Zaks, Moderna’s chief medical officer, said in an interview. The number of doses that could be ready is unclear, but Dr. Zaks said, “We’re doing our best to make it as many millions as possible.”If those trials go well, a vaccine could become available for widespread use by the end of this year or early 2021, Dr. Tal Zaks, Moderna’s chief medical officer, said in an interview. The number of doses that could be ready is unclear, but Dr. Zaks said, “We’re doing our best to make it as many millions as possible.”
Despite the uncertainties, the company’s announcement rapidly encouraged investors, who also welcomed a pledge from the Federal Reserve chairman that there was “really no limit” to what the central bank could do with its emergency lending facilities.Despite the uncertainties, the company’s announcement rapidly encouraged investors, who also welcomed a pledge from the Federal Reserve chairman that there was “really no limit” to what the central bank could do with its emergency lending facilities.
The S&P 500 rose more than 3 percent Monday, while stock benchmarks in Europe were 4 percent to 6 percent higher. Moderna’s shares had surged more than 25 percent. The S&P 500 rose more than 3 percent Monday — Moderna’s shares rose 20 percent — while stock benchmarks in Europe were 4 percent to 6 percent higher.
The rally had all the characteristics of one focused on the prospects for a return to normal. Travel stocks, like United Airlines, Expedia Group and Marriott International, were among the best performers in the S&P 500.The rally had all the characteristics of one focused on the prospects for a return to normal. Travel stocks, like United Airlines, Expedia Group and Marriott International, were among the best performers in the S&P 500.
Oil prices also moved higher, with West Texas Intermediate, the U.S. standard crude, rising above $30 a barrel for the first time since March. Government bond prices fell.Oil prices also moved higher, with West Texas Intermediate, the U.S. standard crude, rising above $30 a barrel for the first time since March. Government bond prices fell.
Texas, the second-most populous state, took more steps to reopen on Monday when Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, announced that office workers could return to work in limited capacities and child care services could reopen immediately. Little League games, sleepaway camps and vacation Bible camps could open beginning May 31, he said.Texas, the second-most populous state, took more steps to reopen on Monday when Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, announced that office workers could return to work in limited capacities and child care services could reopen immediately. Little League games, sleepaway camps and vacation Bible camps could open beginning May 31, he said.
Mr. Abbott’s latest round of easing restrictions came after the state reported its deadliest day yet last week — 58 deaths between Wednesday and Thursday— and recorded 1,801 new infections on Saturday, the highest single-day spike the state has seen.Mr. Abbott’s latest round of easing restrictions came after the state reported its deadliest day yet last week — 58 deaths between Wednesday and Thursday— and recorded 1,801 new infections on Saturday, the highest single-day spike the state has seen.
Mayor Eric Johnson of Dallas said he believed that the increase was connected to Mr. Abbott’s earlier lifting of constraints, telling CNN that he thought it was “more than likely connected in some way to the opening of restaurants and movie theaters and retail and our malls up to 25 percent occupancy a couple weeks ago.” Mr. Abbott attributed the higher number to increased testing in hot spots, including in the Amarillo area, which he said would not reopen as fast as the rest of the state.Mayor Eric Johnson of Dallas said he believed that the increase was connected to Mr. Abbott’s earlier lifting of constraints, telling CNN that he thought it was “more than likely connected in some way to the opening of restaurants and movie theaters and retail and our malls up to 25 percent occupancy a couple weeks ago.” Mr. Abbott attributed the higher number to increased testing in hot spots, including in the Amarillo area, which he said would not reopen as fast as the rest of the state.
In Michigan, where thousands of autoworkers began returning to work on Monday for the first time in weeks, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, a Democrat, announced that retail businesses, bars and restaurants with limited seating could reopen with restrictions in the Traverse City area and in the Upper Peninsula, two regions hit less hard than other parts of the state.In Michigan, where thousands of autoworkers began returning to work on Monday for the first time in weeks, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, a Democrat, announced that retail businesses, bars and restaurants with limited seating could reopen with restrictions in the Traverse City area and in the Upper Peninsula, two regions hit less hard than other parts of the state.
“Keep your wits about you,” she urged. “Let’s not all go rushing out and force a closure eventually. What we want to do is keep moving forward.”“Keep your wits about you,” she urged. “Let’s not all go rushing out and force a closure eventually. What we want to do is keep moving forward.”
The order is especially important for the tourist hub of northwest Michigan, which has already canceled the popular National Cherry Festival and Traverse City Film Festival in July.The order is especially important for the tourist hub of northwest Michigan, which has already canceled the popular National Cherry Festival and Traverse City Film Festival in July.
“We want to be measured about how we invite people back and how we reopen our businesses,” said Mayor Jim Carruthers of Traverse City. “It’s been horrible to see all the shops and restaurants closed.”“We want to be measured about how we invite people back and how we reopen our businesses,” said Mayor Jim Carruthers of Traverse City. “It’s been horrible to see all the shops and restaurants closed.”
In Massachusetts, another hard-hit state, Gov. Charlie Baker, a Republican, on Monday presented a four-phased strategy to gingerly resume public life, replacing his “stay at home” advisory with a new one, “safer at home.”In Massachusetts, another hard-hit state, Gov. Charlie Baker, a Republican, on Monday presented a four-phased strategy to gingerly resume public life, replacing his “stay at home” advisory with a new one, “safer at home.”
The four stages, which begin today and last for three weeks apiece, are known as “start,” “cautious,” “vigilant” and “new normal,” with each new phase replacing the previous guidelines with slightly looser ones. Progress from one stage to the next is contingent on a continuing decline in the virus’s spread, Mr. Baker warned.The four stages, which begin today and last for three weeks apiece, are known as “start,” “cautious,” “vigilant” and “new normal,” with each new phase replacing the previous guidelines with slightly looser ones. Progress from one stage to the next is contingent on a continuing decline in the virus’s spread, Mr. Baker warned.
“If we don’t keep up the fight, and don’t do the things that we all know we have to do, and know we can do, we run the risk of creating a second spike in the fall,” he said.“If we don’t keep up the fight, and don’t do the things that we all know we have to do, and know we can do, we run the risk of creating a second spike in the fall,” he said.
Across the country, governors are engaging in a precarious balancing act, weighing the risks of reopening their states with the acute need to minimize economic harm. The pendulum will move further toward the economy this week, when several more states, including Connecticut, Kentucky and Minnesota, move to reopen. If current trends hold, New York City is expected to meet the state’s criteria to begin reopening in the first half of June, the mayor said.Across the country, governors are engaging in a precarious balancing act, weighing the risks of reopening their states with the acute need to minimize economic harm. The pendulum will move further toward the economy this week, when several more states, including Connecticut, Kentucky and Minnesota, move to reopen. If current trends hold, New York City is expected to meet the state’s criteria to begin reopening in the first half of June, the mayor said.
More than two-thirds of states have relaxed restrictions in some significant way, or begun a regional reopening. The shift has come as reported cases of the virus have declined nationally in recent weeks. Mr. Trump on Monday tweeted a call to “REOPEN OUR COUNTRY!”More than two-thirds of states have relaxed restrictions in some significant way, or begun a regional reopening. The shift has come as reported cases of the virus have declined nationally in recent weeks. Mr. Trump on Monday tweeted a call to “REOPEN OUR COUNTRY!”
But even governors who have allowed certain returns to business have expressed hesitance, and public health officials have been warning for weeks that reopening too soon could lead to a devastating second outbreak.But even governors who have allowed certain returns to business have expressed hesitance, and public health officials have been warning for weeks that reopening too soon could lead to a devastating second outbreak.
“This is really the most crucial time,” Gov. Mike DeWine of Ohio, a Republican, said Sunday on CNN. “And the most dangerous time.”“This is really the most crucial time,” Gov. Mike DeWine of Ohio, a Republican, said Sunday on CNN. “And the most dangerous time.”
Stores and malls could reopen in Minnesota beginning Monday. The enormous Mall of America, in Bloomington, has said that it does not plan to reopen its shops until June 1. On Wednesday, hard-hit Connecticut is expected to reopen salons, museums and office buildings. By Friday, stores and restaurants are expected to open back up in Kentucky.Stores and malls could reopen in Minnesota beginning Monday. The enormous Mall of America, in Bloomington, has said that it does not plan to reopen its shops until June 1. On Wednesday, hard-hit Connecticut is expected to reopen salons, museums and office buildings. By Friday, stores and restaurants are expected to open back up in Kentucky.
The new Congressional Oversight Commission raised questions about how the Federal Reserve and Treasury Department were administering emergency bailout funds in its inaugural assessment of the $500 billion program.The new Congressional Oversight Commission raised questions about how the Federal Reserve and Treasury Department were administering emergency bailout funds in its inaugural assessment of the $500 billion program.
The report is the first in what will be a monthly review of how the funds are being used. The money, which was allocated as part of the $2 trillion CARES Act, is being used to provide grants and loans to airlines and companies that are vital to national security and to backstop lending programs designed by the Fed.The report is the first in what will be a monthly review of how the funds are being used. The money, which was allocated as part of the $2 trillion CARES Act, is being used to provide grants and loans to airlines and companies that are vital to national security and to backstop lending programs designed by the Fed.
The programs are just getting started. The report says that Treasury has yet to disburse the $46 billion in grant and loan money to airlines or businesses critical to national security. Thus far, it has used only $37.5 billion for the Fed’s Secondary Market Corporate Credit Facility, which purchases outstanding corporate bonds through a special purpose vehicle. The Fed’s other facilities, which are intended to keep credit flowing to businesses and state and local governments, are expected to be operational in the weeks to come, though the timeline remains highly uncertain.The programs are just getting started. The report says that Treasury has yet to disburse the $46 billion in grant and loan money to airlines or businesses critical to national security. Thus far, it has used only $37.5 billion for the Fed’s Secondary Market Corporate Credit Facility, which purchases outstanding corporate bonds through a special purpose vehicle. The Fed’s other facilities, which are intended to keep credit flowing to businesses and state and local governments, are expected to be operational in the weeks to come, though the timeline remains highly uncertain.
The bipartisan commission is made up of two Republicans, Senator Patrick J. Toomey of Pennsylvania and Representative French Hill of Arkansas, and two Democrats, Bharat Ramamurti, a former economic adviser to Senator Elizabeth Warren, and Representative Donna Shalala of Florida.The bipartisan commission is made up of two Republicans, Senator Patrick J. Toomey of Pennsylvania and Representative French Hill of Arkansas, and two Democrats, Bharat Ramamurti, a former economic adviser to Senator Elizabeth Warren, and Representative Donna Shalala of Florida.
The commission questioned how the Fed and Treasury would measure the success of the programs. Signaling its areas of concern, it questioned whether the Fed facilities would favor large companies over smaller ones and if the agencies believed that the loan money would help stabilize the economy regardless of how it was used.The commission questioned how the Fed and Treasury would measure the success of the programs. Signaling its areas of concern, it questioned whether the Fed facilities would favor large companies over smaller ones and if the agencies believed that the loan money would help stabilize the economy regardless of how it was used.
The next report is due in late June.The next report is due in late June.
A group of Democrats on the Senate Banking Committee is sending Jerome H. Powell, the chairman of the Federal Reserve, and Steven Mnuchin, the Treasury secretary, a letter urging them to take greater risks in their lending program meant to keep credit flowing to midsize businesses.A group of Democrats on the Senate Banking Committee is sending Jerome H. Powell, the chairman of the Federal Reserve, and Steven Mnuchin, the Treasury secretary, a letter urging them to take greater risks in their lending program meant to keep credit flowing to midsize businesses.
The so-called Main Street lending program, first unveiled March 23, has yet to get up and running. When it does, it will be backed by $75 billion of the $454 billion that Congress gave the Treasury Department as part of the CARES relief law to support the Fed’s emergency loan efforts.The so-called Main Street lending program, first unveiled March 23, has yet to get up and running. When it does, it will be backed by $75 billion of the $454 billion that Congress gave the Treasury Department as part of the CARES relief law to support the Fed’s emergency loan efforts.
Mr. Powell and Mr. Mnuchin will testify before the Senate Banking Committee on Tuesday.Mr. Powell and Mr. Mnuchin will testify before the Senate Banking Committee on Tuesday.
Senator Mark Warner of Virginia, a Democrat, has expressed concern that the program is taking too long to get started, and that its terms are too cautious, limiting the chances that it will lose taxpayer money but also potentially curbing its effectiveness. He led the group in writing the letter, which was given to The New York Times by his office.Senator Mark Warner of Virginia, a Democrat, has expressed concern that the program is taking too long to get started, and that its terms are too cautious, limiting the chances that it will lose taxpayer money but also potentially curbing its effectiveness. He led the group in writing the letter, which was given to The New York Times by his office.
“The current crisis facing the U.S. economy is distinguishable from previous economic downturns, and therefore demands a different approach,” the letter said. It acknowledged that the Fed’s emergency lending programs were usually structured as backstops meant to be used only as a last resort, but argued that this one should not be.“The current crisis facing the U.S. economy is distinguishable from previous economic downturns, and therefore demands a different approach,” the letter said. It acknowledged that the Fed’s emergency lending programs were usually structured as backstops meant to be used only as a last resort, but argued that this one should not be.
“The vast majority of these firms are not seeking public assistance due to risky behavior,” the senators wrote, adding that “should firms fail to receive affordable financing terms under these facilities, many will be left with a choice between declaring bankruptcy, posing long-term risks to the economy or opening up too quickly.”“The vast majority of these firms are not seeking public assistance due to risky behavior,” the senators wrote, adding that “should firms fail to receive affordable financing terms under these facilities, many will be left with a choice between declaring bankruptcy, posing long-term risks to the economy or opening up too quickly.”
The senators said they did not think the Fed and Treasury needed to return the money appropriated in the CARES Act in a baseline situation, as Mr. Mnuchin has said they expect to do.The senators said they did not think the Fed and Treasury needed to return the money appropriated in the CARES Act in a baseline situation, as Mr. Mnuchin has said they expect to do.
Hotlines in California were deluged on Monday as the state began taking applications for $75 million in cash assistance to help undocumented immigrants weather the economic downturn.Hotlines in California were deluged on Monday as the state began taking applications for $75 million in cash assistance to help undocumented immigrants weather the economic downturn.
The one-time grants of $500 per person or $1,000 per household will be awarded to about 150,000 people who phone in on a first-come, first served basis, state officials said. Philanthropic organizations and private donors pledged an additional $50 million, for another 100,000 immigrants, Miriam Jordan reports.The one-time grants of $500 per person or $1,000 per household will be awarded to about 150,000 people who phone in on a first-come, first served basis, state officials said. Philanthropic organizations and private donors pledged an additional $50 million, for another 100,000 immigrants, Miriam Jordan reports.
There are an estimated 10.6 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S., of whom 2 million live in California, more than any other state.There are an estimated 10.6 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S., of whom 2 million live in California, more than any other state.
Undocumented immigrants are among the most vulnerable during thepandemic; many work in jobs in homes, hotels and restaurants that have been shut down during the lockdowns.Undocumented immigrants are among the most vulnerable during thepandemic; many work in jobs in homes, hotels and restaurants that have been shut down during the lockdowns.
In anticipation of the payments, people looking for information on how to apply over the weekend directed a flurry of calls to the 12 nonprofit organizations contracted to vet the applications. By Monday, when the phone lines opened, many people reported they could not get through.In anticipation of the payments, people looking for information on how to apply over the weekend directed a flurry of calls to the 12 nonprofit organizations contracted to vet the applications. By Monday, when the phone lines opened, many people reported they could not get through.
The sign-ups were being conducted almost entirely by telephone to avoid hazardous in-person contacts.The sign-ups were being conducted almost entirely by telephone to avoid hazardous in-person contacts.
To qualify for the money, applicants must prove they are undocumented, out of work because of the health crisis and not eligible for federal stimulus checks or unemployment benefits.To qualify for the money, applicants must prove they are undocumented, out of work because of the health crisis and not eligible for federal stimulus checks or unemployment benefits.
Groups opposed to the program sued to block the state from using taxpayer dollars, arguing that it was illegal. The cases were dismissed by the court.Groups opposed to the program sued to block the state from using taxpayer dollars, arguing that it was illegal. The cases were dismissed by the court.
Thousands of students across the country experienced problems last week when taking Advanced Placement exams from home, heightening the stress and anxiety for students trying to demonstrate their mastery of certain subjects as part of the college application process.Thousands of students across the country experienced problems last week when taking Advanced Placement exams from home, heightening the stress and anxiety for students trying to demonstrate their mastery of certain subjects as part of the college application process.
More than 2.2 million A.P. tests were taken last week, in subjects ranging from computer science to art history to physics. A second week of testing begins today.More than 2.2 million A.P. tests were taken last week, in subjects ranging from computer science to art history to physics. A second week of testing begins today.
The College Board, the nonprofit organization that administers the exams, said only 1 percent of test takers had problems submitting their answers online last week. But some students have complained that the technical failures were more widespread and have said that as many as a quarter of students in some high school classes had difficulty with the online testing system.The College Board, the nonprofit organization that administers the exams, said only 1 percent of test takers had problems submitting their answers online last week. But some students have complained that the technical failures were more widespread and have said that as many as a quarter of students in some high school classes had difficulty with the online testing system.
They posted videos on social media of the system failing, and even shared photographs of faces stained with tears of frustration.They posted videos on social media of the system failing, and even shared photographs of faces stained with tears of frustration.
On Sunday, the College Board announced that students taking exams this week will have the option of emailing their answers if they are unable to upload them. But students who had difficulties last week will have to take makeup exams in early June — a solution that some families called unfair, because it would force students to take stressful tests multiple times.On Sunday, the College Board announced that students taking exams this week will have the option of emailing their answers if they are unable to upload them. But students who had difficulties last week will have to take makeup exams in early June — a solution that some families called unfair, because it would force students to take stressful tests multiple times.
On Twitter, one student posted that she could not submit her chemistry test and wrote, “Thanks @CollegeBoard. Now I get to stress about this test for the next three weeks when I should be worried about my other classes.”On Twitter, one student posted that she could not submit her chemistry test and wrote, “Thanks @CollegeBoard. Now I get to stress about this test for the next three weeks when I should be worried about my other classes.”
The College Board, which also oversees the SAT, a standardized test that serves as a gateway to college for millions of applicants each year, also said that it would develop digital versions for students to take at home in the fall if the pandemic continues to require social distancing.The College Board, which also oversees the SAT, a standardized test that serves as a gateway to college for millions of applicants each year, also said that it would develop digital versions for students to take at home in the fall if the pandemic continues to require social distancing.
When big companies got loans backed by the federal government’s $660 billion Paycheck Protection Program, outrage ensued. Many people expressed anger that the government’s main vehicle for helping mom-and-pop shops struggling during the pandemic was being undermined.When big companies got loans backed by the federal government’s $660 billion Paycheck Protection Program, outrage ensued. Many people expressed anger that the government’s main vehicle for helping mom-and-pop shops struggling during the pandemic was being undermined.
Lawmakers opened congressional inquiries and demanded firms give the money back, while the Trump administration tightened eligibility rules. The Treasury secretary threatened to hold firms criminally liable if they did not meet the program’s requirements and gave companies until Monday to decide whether to return their loans without repercussions.Lawmakers opened congressional inquiries and demanded firms give the money back, while the Trump administration tightened eligibility rules. The Treasury secretary threatened to hold firms criminally liable if they did not meet the program’s requirements and gave companies until Monday to decide whether to return their loans without repercussions.
So far, at least 61 public and private companies have returned their small-business loans, according to data compiled by The Times. Among the companies that have returned loans are Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Shake Shack and the shoe start-up Allbirds.So far, at least 61 public and private companies have returned their small-business loans, according to data compiled by The Times. Among the companies that have returned loans are Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Shake Shack and the shoe start-up Allbirds.
But the majority of money extended to public companies has so far not been returned.But the majority of money extended to public companies has so far not been returned.
Two of those companies, Escalade, a sporting goods manufacturer in Evansville, Ill., and RealNetworks, a Seattle software developer, both sought and received loans that they had determined they needed to pay employees and keep their operations afloat. Escalade got $5.6 million on April 14; RealNetworks qualified for $2.9 million on April 24. But after the federal government scolded publicly traded companies for taking loans, they took different paths.Two of those companies, Escalade, a sporting goods manufacturer in Evansville, Ill., and RealNetworks, a Seattle software developer, both sought and received loans that they had determined they needed to pay employees and keep their operations afloat. Escalade got $5.6 million on April 14; RealNetworks qualified for $2.9 million on April 24. But after the federal government scolded publicly traded companies for taking loans, they took different paths.
Escalade returned the funds, hoping to avoid running afoul of new federal guidelines for the loans and betting states would loosen stay-at-home restrictions enough to restart operations. RealNetworks kept its loan and says it will use it to bring workers back this week.Escalade returned the funds, hoping to avoid running afoul of new federal guidelines for the loans and betting states would loosen stay-at-home restrictions enough to restart operations. RealNetworks kept its loan and says it will use it to bring workers back this week.
Black and Latino business owners are struggling to get government assistance under the Paycheck Protection Program, a new survey has found, and many say they are on the brink of closing permanently.Black and Latino business owners are struggling to get government assistance under the Paycheck Protection Program, a new survey has found, and many say they are on the brink of closing permanently.
The survey, conducted by the Global Strategy Group for two equal-rights organizations, Color of Change and UnidosUS, included interviews with 500 business owners and 1,200 workers from April 30 to last Monday. Just 12 percent of the owners who applied for government-backed loans in the $650 billion program reported receiving what they had asked for, and nearly half of all owners said they anticipated having to permanently close in the next six months.The survey, conducted by the Global Strategy Group for two equal-rights organizations, Color of Change and UnidosUS, included interviews with 500 business owners and 1,200 workers from April 30 to last Monday. Just 12 percent of the owners who applied for government-backed loans in the $650 billion program reported receiving what they had asked for, and nearly half of all owners said they anticipated having to permanently close in the next six months.
By comparison, in a survey of small businesses by the Census Bureau from April 26 to May 2, three-quarters said they had asked for a loan and 38 percent of them said they had received one.By comparison, in a survey of small businesses by the Census Bureau from April 26 to May 2, three-quarters said they had asked for a loan and 38 percent of them said they had received one.
The program was the first time some black and Latino business owners had ever sought a bank loan. Two-thirds of the respondents sought loans of under $50,000 through the government’s aid program. Nearly half said they had to lay off at least some employees.The program was the first time some black and Latino business owners had ever sought a bank loan. Two-thirds of the respondents sought loans of under $50,000 through the government’s aid program. Nearly half said they had to lay off at least some employees.
Rashad Robinson, the president of Color of Change, said the survey showed that “if we don’t get policies to protect these communities, we will lose a generation of black and brown businesses, which will have deep impacts on our entire country’s economy.”Rashad Robinson, the president of Color of Change, said the survey showed that “if we don’t get policies to protect these communities, we will lose a generation of black and brown businesses, which will have deep impacts on our entire country’s economy.”
Mayor Bill de Blasio said Monday that he expected New York City to meet the state’s criteria to start reopening and begin easing restrictions by the first half of June, assuming current trends held.Mayor Bill de Blasio said Monday that he expected New York City to meet the state’s criteria to start reopening and begin easing restrictions by the first half of June, assuming current trends held.
The state’s standards that New York City has yet to meet are:The state’s standards that New York City has yet to meet are:
A rate of new hospitalizations below 2 per 100,000 residents a day. In New York City, that works out to around 170 per day. According to the state, the number in the city is around 200 per day.A rate of new hospitalizations below 2 per 100,000 residents a day. In New York City, that works out to around 170 per day. According to the state, the number in the city is around 200 per day.
A hospital-bed vacancy rate of at least 30 percent. The city is close — 29 percent.A hospital-bed vacancy rate of at least 30 percent. The city is close — 29 percent.
An intensive-care bed vacancy rate of at least 30 percent. The city’s rate is 24 percent.An intensive-care bed vacancy rate of at least 30 percent. The city’s rate is 24 percent.
At least 30 working contact tracers per 100,000 residents. The city is hiring tracers and expects them to be on the job soon.At least 30 working contact tracers per 100,000 residents. The city is hiring tracers and expects them to be on the job soon.
In the regions that can restart, construction, manufacturing, and wholesale trade can resume. Some retail businesses may open for curbside service only. Five regions became eligible on Friday and a sixth, around Buffalo, can reopen on Tuesday, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said Monday.In the regions that can restart, construction, manufacturing, and wholesale trade can resume. Some retail businesses may open for curbside service only. Five regions became eligible on Friday and a sixth, around Buffalo, can reopen on Tuesday, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said Monday.
Other activities that are allowed include drive-in movies, landscaping and gardening businesses and “low-risk recreational activities” like tennis.Other activities that are allowed include drive-in movies, landscaping and gardening businesses and “low-risk recreational activities” like tennis.
For Memorial Day weekend, beaches in New York City will be technically open, Mr. de Blasio said, but there cannot be any swimming, sports or gatherings. He also said Monday that he did not want to see people traveling long distances to get to them, especially on mass transit. He did not say how the city would enforce those limits.For Memorial Day weekend, beaches in New York City will be technically open, Mr. de Blasio said, but there cannot be any swimming, sports or gatherings. He also said Monday that he did not want to see people traveling long distances to get to them, especially on mass transit. He did not say how the city would enforce those limits.
Beaches in New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware and elsewhere in New York State will open for swimming then, albeit with crowd limits and social distancing rules in place on the sand.Beaches in New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware and elsewhere in New York State will open for swimming then, albeit with crowd limits and social distancing rules in place on the sand.
The city is prepared to fence off the beaches if they start to get crowded, the mayor warned.The city is prepared to fence off the beaches if they start to get crowded, the mayor warned.
Another 106 people died in the state, Mr. Cuomo said.Another 106 people died in the state, Mr. Cuomo said.
Dr. Rick Bright, who became a federal whistle-blower after he was stripped of his position running a medical research agency, has reported to his new assignment at the National Institutes of Health, his lawyers said.Dr. Rick Bright, who became a federal whistle-blower after he was stripped of his position running a medical research agency, has reported to his new assignment at the National Institutes of Health, his lawyers said.
Dr. Bright was ousted as the head of the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority on April 21, he has said, after he objected to the widespread use of an unproven malaria drug being touted by Mr. Trump as a treatment for Covid-19.Dr. Bright was ousted as the head of the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority on April 21, he has said, after he objected to the widespread use of an unproven malaria drug being touted by Mr. Trump as a treatment for Covid-19.
While his new mission is unclear, Francis Collins, the director of the health institutes, recently told reporters that Dr. Bright is now a “senior adviser” to him. “His precise role is under development,” Dr. Collins said.While his new mission is unclear, Francis Collins, the director of the health institutes, recently told reporters that Dr. Bright is now a “senior adviser” to him. “His precise role is under development,” Dr. Collins said.
Dr. Bright had been on medical leave for hypertension and then vacation leave, he told Congress last week — an admission that prompted sharp criticism from Republican lawmakers, as well as Peter Navarro, Mr. Trump’s trade adviser, who called him “a deserter.”Dr. Bright had been on medical leave for hypertension and then vacation leave, he told Congress last week — an admission that prompted sharp criticism from Republican lawmakers, as well as Peter Navarro, Mr. Trump’s trade adviser, who called him “a deserter.”
In a statement, his lawyers, Debra S. Katz and Lisa Banks, said Dr. Bright went to the N.I.H. on Monday. “Following the required on-boarding process, he is prepared to begin working when N.I.H. is ready,” they said.In a statement, his lawyers, Debra S. Katz and Lisa Banks, said Dr. Bright went to the N.I.H. on Monday. “Following the required on-boarding process, he is prepared to begin working when N.I.H. is ready,” they said.
As the virus continues to spread over the next months, and maybe even years, it could exact a heavy new toll in areas of the United States that have not yet seen major outbreaks but have high rates of diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure and other chronic health conditions.As the virus continues to spread over the next months, and maybe even years, it could exact a heavy new toll in areas of the United States that have not yet seen major outbreaks but have high rates of diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure and other chronic health conditions.
Large parts of the South and Appalachia are especially vulnerable, according to a health-risk index created for The Times by PolicyMap, a company that analyzes local health data. The index for the first time identifies counties with high rates of the underlying conditions that increase residents’ risk of becoming severely ill if they are infected.Large parts of the South and Appalachia are especially vulnerable, according to a health-risk index created for The Times by PolicyMap, a company that analyzes local health data. The index for the first time identifies counties with high rates of the underlying conditions that increase residents’ risk of becoming severely ill if they are infected.
Even in lower-risk counties, a significant proportion of the population is living with these conditions.Even in lower-risk counties, a significant proportion of the population is living with these conditions.
Public health experts warn that these areas may not be adequately prepared for new waves of infection, even as some have lifted restrictions meant to curb the spread of the virus.Public health experts warn that these areas may not be adequately prepared for new waves of infection, even as some have lifted restrictions meant to curb the spread of the virus.
“Places that have not seen a lot of infection yet should be thinking about what infection is going to mean once they have an outbreak there,” said Micaela E. Martinez, a professor at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health.“Places that have not seen a lot of infection yet should be thinking about what infection is going to mean once they have an outbreak there,” said Micaela E. Martinez, a professor at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health.
“This infection is highly contagious and we have no vaccine, so it will inevitably sweep through our populations unless we have very tight measures in place to prevent that from happening,” Dr. Martinez said. Once it does, the overall health of a community will matter, she added.“This infection is highly contagious and we have no vaccine, so it will inevitably sweep through our populations unless we have very tight measures in place to prevent that from happening,” Dr. Martinez said. Once it does, the overall health of a community will matter, she added.
In his 20 years in and out of homelessness, Ollie Harris has seen a lot of things. But what happened on a recent Friday near his tent in Oakland, Calif., was new.In his 20 years in and out of homelessness, Ollie Harris has seen a lot of things. But what happened on a recent Friday near his tent in Oakland, Calif., was new.
“Would you like to be tested today?” asked a woman who was wearing a surgical mask.“Would you like to be tested today?” asked a woman who was wearing a surgical mask.
“I might as well,” Mr. Harris replied. A nurse quickly swabbed Mr. Harris’s nostrils and throat and then jotted down his information.“I might as well,” Mr. Harris replied. A nurse quickly swabbed Mr. Harris’s nostrils and throat and then jotted down his information.
Only 26 of every 1,000 Californians have been tested, ranking the state 26th in the nation, and among the vast numbers of the untested are many high-risk groups, but none more so than the 150,000 homeless people living throughout California. Their encampments, often crowded and lacking basic sanitation, could provide a place for the virus to flourish.Only 26 of every 1,000 Californians have been tested, ranking the state 26th in the nation, and among the vast numbers of the untested are many high-risk groups, but none more so than the 150,000 homeless people living throughout California. Their encampments, often crowded and lacking basic sanitation, could provide a place for the virus to flourish.
Mr. Harris was among the first to participate in one of the new testing initiatives by health experts at California’s top public and private universities. They aim to fill gaps in knowledge about the disease’s prevalence, unravel mysteries about survivor immunity and answer other looming questions as California begins to ease its lockdown.Mr. Harris was among the first to participate in one of the new testing initiatives by health experts at California’s top public and private universities. They aim to fill gaps in knowledge about the disease’s prevalence, unravel mysteries about survivor immunity and answer other looming questions as California begins to ease its lockdown.
So far, their work has raised as many questions as it has answered. But there have also been intriguing, if still tentative, findings.So far, their work has raised as many questions as it has answered. But there have also been intriguing, if still tentative, findings.
The initiative that tested Mr. Harris, for example, has found just four positive cases out of the 233 homeless people it has tested so far. Another found stark contrasts in infection rates based on whether a person was able to work from home or not.The initiative that tested Mr. Harris, for example, has found just four positive cases out of the 233 homeless people it has tested so far. Another found stark contrasts in infection rates based on whether a person was able to work from home or not.
The experts leading these efforts said they acted to fill a void. Eva Harris, an infectious disease specialist at the University of California, Berkeley, said that watching the virus spread around the world while bickering government leaders hesitated to act was like witnessing the Titanic speeding toward the iceberg.The experts leading these efforts said they acted to fill a void. Eva Harris, an infectious disease specialist at the University of California, Berkeley, said that watching the virus spread around the world while bickering government leaders hesitated to act was like witnessing the Titanic speeding toward the iceberg.
“We finally just said, ‘OK, it hit,’ and still nothing happened, so we need to get involved,” she said.“We finally just said, ‘OK, it hit,’ and still nothing happened, so we need to get involved,” she said.
In the first weeks after the pandemic hit New York, Dr. James A. Mahoney barely slept.In the first weeks after the pandemic hit New York, Dr. James A. Mahoney barely slept.
When he was not working his day shifts at an intensive care unit at University Hospital of Brooklyn, he was working nights across the street at Kings County Hospital Center. When he was not at a hospital, he was conducting telemedicine sessions with his regular patients from home, making sure they were wearing masks and washing their hands.When he was not working his day shifts at an intensive care unit at University Hospital of Brooklyn, he was working nights across the street at Kings County Hospital Center. When he was not at a hospital, he was conducting telemedicine sessions with his regular patients from home, making sure they were wearing masks and washing their hands.
He would run from crashing patient to crashing patient, always at the bedside where it was most dangerous.He would run from crashing patient to crashing patient, always at the bedside where it was most dangerous.
On April 27, he succumbed to the virus he had fought so vigorously.On April 27, he succumbed to the virus he had fought so vigorously.
The pandemic has devastated the ranks of New York’s health care workers. While the city has not released comprehensive data on infection and mortality rates among hospital staffers, doctors and nurses have said there were times during the surge last month when hundreds were out sick.The pandemic has devastated the ranks of New York’s health care workers. While the city has not released comprehensive data on infection and mortality rates among hospital staffers, doctors and nurses have said there were times during the surge last month when hundreds were out sick.
“One of the sad stories of this pandemic is that we’re losing people that we couldn’t afford to lose,” Dr. Robert F. Foronjy, Dr. Mahoney’s boss, said.“One of the sad stories of this pandemic is that we’re losing people that we couldn’t afford to lose,” Dr. Robert F. Foronjy, Dr. Mahoney’s boss, said.
For a place like University Hospital, a chronically underfunded state-run institution that serves a mostly poor, black Brooklyn community, the loss of Dr. Mahoney was shattering.For a place like University Hospital, a chronically underfunded state-run institution that serves a mostly poor, black Brooklyn community, the loss of Dr. Mahoney was shattering.
“As a young black man, I looked at this guy and said to myself, ‘Twenty years from now I want to be like him,’” said Dr. Latif A. Salam, who is now an emergency room doctor at University Hospital. “When a black medical student, a black resident sees him, he sees a hero. Someone that you can be one day. He’s our Jay-Z.”“As a young black man, I looked at this guy and said to myself, ‘Twenty years from now I want to be like him,’” said Dr. Latif A. Salam, who is now an emergency room doctor at University Hospital. “When a black medical student, a black resident sees him, he sees a hero. Someone that you can be one day. He’s our Jay-Z.”
After nearly two months under lockdown — with the only access roads closed off by checkpoints — the Florida Keys will reopen to visitors on June 1, officials announced.After nearly two months under lockdown — with the only access roads closed off by checkpoints — the Florida Keys will reopen to visitors on June 1, officials announced.
The archipelago has been blocked off to anyone who does not work or live there since late March. Hotels were ordered closed, and visitors who flew in through the airport were screened and instructed to self-isolate for two weeks.The archipelago has been blocked off to anyone who does not work or live there since late March. Hotels were ordered closed, and visitors who flew in through the airport were screened and instructed to self-isolate for two weeks.
The measures worked: Monroe County had just 100 confirmed cases and three deaths, according to state data. The three heavily populated counties to the north — Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach — had a total of more than 25,000 cases and 1,000 deaths.The measures worked: Monroe County had just 100 confirmed cases and three deaths, according to state data. The three heavily populated counties to the north — Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach — had a total of more than 25,000 cases and 1,000 deaths.
“I have to say, it’s probably one of the toughest decisions we have ever had to make as a county,” said Heather Carruthers, the mayor of Monroe County. “First, closing the Keys to visitors was heartbreaking. We knew what an impact that would have on our locals, and it’s not who we are. We’re the ‘Come as you are’ county.”“I have to say, it’s probably one of the toughest decisions we have ever had to make as a county,” said Heather Carruthers, the mayor of Monroe County. “First, closing the Keys to visitors was heartbreaking. We knew what an impact that would have on our locals, and it’s not who we are. We’re the ‘Come as you are’ county.”
Ms. Carruthers said that the decision to reopen was just as hard, because it was clear that it was precisely because of the strict measures that the Keys was able to keep the virus at bay. But as the infection rates in Miami and Fort Lauderdale have improved, she said, it has become clear that the Keys had to come up with its own “new normal.”Ms. Carruthers said that the decision to reopen was just as hard, because it was clear that it was precisely because of the strict measures that the Keys was able to keep the virus at bay. But as the infection rates in Miami and Fort Lauderdale have improved, she said, it has become clear that the Keys had to come up with its own “new normal.”
Health officials will be keeping a close eye on the number of infections to decide whether restrictions should be restored, she said.Health officials will be keeping a close eye on the number of infections to decide whether restrictions should be restored, she said.
“This is not permanent,” Ms. Carruthers said. “We are watching this every day.”“This is not permanent,” Ms. Carruthers said. “We are watching this every day.”
More than 11,000 people across the United States are employed as contact tracers working to track and stop the spread of the virus, and local health departments plan to hire thousands more. The work is mostly phone-based and can be done from home. The jobs can be full- or part-time, often with an hourly wage of $17 to $25; some include benefits.More than 11,000 people across the United States are employed as contact tracers working to track and stop the spread of the virus, and local health departments plan to hire thousands more. The work is mostly phone-based and can be done from home. The jobs can be full- or part-time, often with an hourly wage of $17 to $25; some include benefits.
Japan’s economy becomes the largest to officially enter a recession. A Canadian military jet crashes during a flyover for virus workers.Japan’s economy becomes the largest to officially enter a recession. A Canadian military jet crashes during a flyover for virus workers.
Reporting was contributed by Ellen Barry, Alan Blinder, Neal E. Boudette, Max Brimelow, Jane E. Brody, Julie Chang, Matthew Conlen, Michael Cooper, Pedro Cota, Melina Delkic, Emily Flitter, Jacey Fortin, Dana Goldstein, Abby Goodnough, Denise Grady, Kathy Gray, Kristen Hwang, Andrew Jacobs, Miriam Jordan, Annie Karni, Adam Liptak, Alex Matthews, David McCabe, Sarah Mervosh, David Montgomery, Andy Newman, Sharon Otterman, Nadja Popovich, Alan Rappeport, Frances Robles, Rick Rojas, Marc Santora, Michael Schwirtz, Anjali Singhvi, Jeanna Smialek, Kaly Soto, Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Eileen Sullivan, Neil Vigdor and Michael Wilson. Reporting was contributed by Ellen Barry, Alan Blinder, Neal E. Boudette, Max Brimelow, Jane E. Brody, Julie Chang, Matthew Conlen, Michael Cooper, Pedro Cota, Melina Delkic, Emily Flitter, Jacey Fortin, Dana Goldstein, Abby Goodnough, Denise Grady, Kathy Gray, Kristen Hwang, Andrew Jacobs, Miriam Jordan, Annie Karni, Adam Liptak, Alex Matthews, David McCabe, Sarah Mervosh, David Montgomery, Andy Newman, Sharon Otterman, Nadja Popovich, Alan Rappeport, Frances Robles, Rick Rojas, Marc Santora, Michael Schwirtz, Anjali Singhvi, Jeanna Smialek, Kaly Soto, Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Eileen Sullivan, Katie Thomas, Neil Vigdor and Michael Wilson.