The numbers. I am starting this post with the unemployment numbers. As another 3,839,000 new claims for unemployment were filed, we have now reached a disturbingly high 30.2 million unemployed in six weeks time. The New York City metropolitan area is the most populated metropolitan area in the country. In the tri-state area of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut there are nearly 32 million people. It is as if nearly every person in those states were out of work. (I know, children and babies are not working. I am looking at the sheer numbers, which are frightening.)
The U.S. currently has 1.17 million cases of Covid-19, with 68,173 people having died. New York State still leads the way with 323,883 cases and 24,648 deaths. New Jersey is next with 127,438 cases and 7,886 deaths, then Massachusetts with 66,263 cases and 3,846 deaths, Illinois with 58,505 cases and 2,559 deaths and California with 53,732 cases and 2,192 deaths. Michigan is seventh on the list, but third in the number of deaths with 4,020.
A Gallup poll from 4/14 through 4/28 put Trump's approval rating back at 49%, with 47% disapproving of his job. That approval rating is up from 43% two weeks prior. Broken down by party, 93% of Republicans approve of the job Trump is doing, but only 8% of Democrats do. However, 47% of Independents approve of Trump's job.
Is the virus a conspiracy? One tenured professor at the Rutgers University Department of Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies, thought so. She does not think well of Trump voters: "F*ck each and every Trump supporter." And she Tweeted this: "Not only do white conservatives not care about Black life, but my most cynical negative read of the white supremacists among them is that they welcome this mass winnowing of Black folks in order to slow demographic shifts and shore up political power." This Tweet also: "But the depths of white depravity - the adamant refusal to be swayed by facts, reason or the value of life itself, especially when those lives are Black - it staggers me." White depravity? Sure there are neo-Nazi white supremacists. But they are small in number. And they pretty much hate everybody else - Jews, Hispanics, etc. This virus is affecting every segment of society. I do not get her point. Are whites devastated by this illness okay with dying because Blacks are dying in greater numbers? Need it always be about race? And NJ taxpayers get to pay this professor's salary.
With large gatherings being barred, the result has been that religious services cannot take place other than online, such as through Zoom. Of course, there are legal and First Amendment issues regarding religious practice. One left-wing "progressive" site, the American Constitution Society, claims no issue is involved in shutting down religious services. In citing deceased Justice Scalia, they wrote: "Americans do not have a Constitutional right to disobey generally applicable laws that were enacted without an intent to discriminate against religion." But in a case out of Virginia, one pastor was threatened with jail time and a fine of $2500 for holding a religious service for 16 people who, apparently, were able to practice social distancing in a church that is able to hold 293 people. The DOJ is siding with the pastor, as religious freedom should perhaps prevail over the Governor's order, when safety was being practiced.
From the religious viewpoint, One Christian friend and reader wrote this: "The Christian tradition recognizes that one should not "tempt G-d," or commit the sin of presumption, by unnecessarily engaging in a dangerous activity in anticipation that G-d will provide protection." One Rabbi and Jewish scholar discussed it this way: "We are taught that the protection and guarding of human life takes precedence over all...I frame it in the positive...It is a Mitzvah to safeguard ourselves...We are doing a Mitzvah staying home." (A Mitzvah is a good deed, but one which our religion commands us to do.)
On the political front, the allegations of sexual assault against Joe Biden are getting greater coverage in the news. Unlike the allegations against Republicans, the media is mostly coming to the defense of Biden, as are Democratic politicians and rank and file Democrats. Commenting on the allegations of Tara Reade, one letter writer to the New York Times wrote this: "This is a species of vainglorious righteousness run amok, and does no honor to the principles the #MeToo movement has embraced...This is the moment to stand united for the greater good of the nation." The greater good being to defeat Trump, even if it means ignoring serious charges against Biden. Here's another letter writer: "For those of you who have been all-in to the #MeToo Movement but are now having trouble supporting Mr. Biden in light of Tara Reade's allegation of sexual assault (which Mr. Biden denies), can you handle being a hypocrite if it means getting Mr. Trump out of the White House? I say, yes, I am happy to be a hypocrite. Please join me." I appreciate the honesty. And the writer reflects what I have said in the blog about many on the left for years - the ends justify the means. The end is getting Trump out of office, even if the means is ignoring a woman's voice and justice for her (should the allegations be true).
The New York Times faced a dilemma with regards to the allegations. They hate Trump and are desperate to have a Democratic victory in November, and Biden is the likely Democratic nominee. But they have also been in the forefront of the #MeToo movement. In the paper's 5/1/20 editorial, they wrote this: "Americans deserve to know more about a sexual assault accusation against the likely Democratic nominee." Sounds good. But then this: "The Democratic National Committee should move to investigate the matter swiftly and thoroughly, with the full cooperation of the Biden campaign." So, have the Dems investigate their own presidential candidate? With the candidate's help? Hmmm. But DNC Chair Tom Perez made it clear that such an investigation will never happen: "Barack Obama trusted Joe Biden. I trust Joe Biden." Investigation over.
Bret Stephens, the former conservative Op-Ed writer in the Wall Street Journal, who switched to the New York Times after becoming a "never-Trumper," had an Op-Ed on the Tara Reade allegations the same day as the editorial. Stephens: "Being 'heard' is not, and should never be, the same as being believed. The entire difference between hearsay and proof, rumor and reason, mob rule and justice, lies in the distinction." Of course, he is correct; although Judge Kavanaugh got no such benefit of the doubt from the media and the left. Then, the Democrats were on the side of the Queen of Hearts (from Alice in Wonderland): "Sentence first - verdict afterwards." When Alice objected, the Queen shouted "Off with her head!" Indeed.
Sunday, May 3, 2020
Monday, April 27, 2020
The Coronavirus Six Weeks Later - When to Reopen?
The numbers. As of late yesterday/early this morning, the US had 975,798 cases, with 54,941 deaths. New York is still the worst by far, with 293,354 cases and 22,275 deaths. Then New Jersey with 109,038 cases and 5,938 deaths, Massachusetts with 53,348 and 2,730 respectively, then Illinois with 41,777 and 1,874, California 42,688 and 1,695, Pennsylvania 41,697 and 1,804, and Michigan with 37,203 cases and 3,274 deaths. The number of deaths to date is approaching the number of deaths in the worst flu season of the past ten years - 2017 to 2018, when an estimated 61,000 people died in the US. And LA County, which has had 19,107 cases and 895 deaths reported this statistic late Saturday: out of the last 48 deaths, 37 of those people (77%) were over the age of 65. It is fairly clear which age group is at the most risk.
The 4/24/20 New York Times had an interesting chart on page 11 of that day's paper. It showed the death rate from the virus by state. Perhaps not surprisingly, the more densely populated states of the Northeast, which are generally smaller in size, have the highest death rates. Again, New York leads the way with 79 deaths per 100,000 people, New Jersey with 57, Connecticut with 43 and Massachusetts with 32. The worst of the Western states - all large in size but not necessarily population - was Washington with a low 9 deaths per 100,000 people. California, large in size and also the most populated of all the states, had 4 deaths per 100,000 people. Clearly, the large states make it easier for people to practice social distancing. Leading the Midwest was Michigan with 28 deaths per 100,000 people. In the South, Louisiana had 32 deaths per 100,000 people.
In the latest week's unemployment numbers, another 4.4 million people filed new claims. That brings the 5 week total to an astronomically high total of 26.4 million people. This is simply unprecedented. One reporter asked NY Governor Andrew Cuomo at one of his daily press briefings: "Is there a fundamental right to work if the government can't get me money when I need it?" Cuomo's reply: "You want to go to work? Go take a job as an essential worker. Do it tomorrow." That was an unfair and callous reply. Clearly, people are not going to qualify overnight to become a doctor or nurse or paramedic or firefighter or police officer. And I do not believe enough retail jobs are opening to employ 26.4 million people.
So, when will it be time to reopen the country? Five days ago, The Hill reported on a Reuters/Ipsos poll, taken from 4/15-4/21, with a margin of error of 6%. 72% of Americans were said to support keeping the stay at home orders until "doctors and public health officials say it's safe." Broken down by party, 88% of Democrats agreed, 70% of Independents and 55% of Republicans. An AP/NORC poll had similar numbers for Democrats, with 63% strongly agreeing to keep stay at home orders (except for essential workers), and 28% somewhat agreeing - for a total of 91%. For Republicans, 36% strongly agree and 35% somewhat agree - for a total of 71%.
The flu of 1957-58 was a particularly devastating year. It is estimated that 25% of the population was infected, and that 116,000 people died. Yet, nothing was shut down. The country remained open for business - the people's business, whatever that was. But the question remains, when we do reopen - and some states are starting to do so - what will it look like? Will there be a new normal? Will greeting someone with a handshake ever return? What about dining out? Some restaurants say they will check people for a fever before admitting them. Tables may be fewer. Those with booths may have plexiglass between the booths. A company that designs airplane interiors is already working on a redesign of the seating layout, which may also include plexiglass between the seats.
The hospitality industry, hit hard by the coronavirus, already has new policies in place. Fox News reported that anyone entering the 4 Seasons Hotel in New York City will have a temperature check. Check-in and check-out will be done virtually. Each guest will be provided with 3 large bags for dirty linen. Room service - gone. The restaurant, bar and coffee shop - closed. Those policies certainly do not entice me to think about a trip or hotel stay. The 4 Seasons will have pre-made box meals. And rooms will be deep cleaned between guests. Hilton apparently will keep rooms vacant for 3 days after a guest checks out. What about concerts and sporting events? Will most seats remain empty in order to allow for 6 feet of social distancing between people?
Will retail outlets, supermarkets and big box stores limit the number of people allowed to be inside at the same time. So, will we now wait in line to shop, as has already happened in many places. One woman who has a work-out business said she was inclined to continue to run her business virtually. Many white collar jobs can be done as well remotely as in an office. Will an increasing number of businesses see an advantage to allowing their employees to work at home? It can certainly save on office overhead. On the other hand, my daughter has been working at home for 5 weeks now, and her company and customers seem to have some difficulty in distinguishing between work hours and non-work hours. When we venture out into the world, will a mask be the newest mandatory apparel item in everyone's wardrobe? And will we ever step closer than 6 feet to another person in public again?
According to Fox, there was a study of 5700 patients hospitalized at a Northwell Health System hospital. The study, as reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association, found that of the Covid 19 patients, 94% had at least one other disease or illness. The median age of the patients was 63 years old. 53% had hypertension, 42% were obese, and 32% had diabetes. So, when we reopen, will there be actual orders compelling people in the high risk groups to remain at home? Absent such orders, will those in the high risk groups who get sick and infect others, then be legally responsible?
To end on a hopeful note, we have a story out of UMass Memorial Health Care. It was reported that a gravely ill patient with the coronavirus, improved within a few hours of getting a blood plasma transfusion from a patient who recovered from Covid 19. Let's hope for more of that, and for less cases overall.
The 4/24/20 New York Times had an interesting chart on page 11 of that day's paper. It showed the death rate from the virus by state. Perhaps not surprisingly, the more densely populated states of the Northeast, which are generally smaller in size, have the highest death rates. Again, New York leads the way with 79 deaths per 100,000 people, New Jersey with 57, Connecticut with 43 and Massachusetts with 32. The worst of the Western states - all large in size but not necessarily population - was Washington with a low 9 deaths per 100,000 people. California, large in size and also the most populated of all the states, had 4 deaths per 100,000 people. Clearly, the large states make it easier for people to practice social distancing. Leading the Midwest was Michigan with 28 deaths per 100,000 people. In the South, Louisiana had 32 deaths per 100,000 people.
In the latest week's unemployment numbers, another 4.4 million people filed new claims. That brings the 5 week total to an astronomically high total of 26.4 million people. This is simply unprecedented. One reporter asked NY Governor Andrew Cuomo at one of his daily press briefings: "Is there a fundamental right to work if the government can't get me money when I need it?" Cuomo's reply: "You want to go to work? Go take a job as an essential worker. Do it tomorrow." That was an unfair and callous reply. Clearly, people are not going to qualify overnight to become a doctor or nurse or paramedic or firefighter or police officer. And I do not believe enough retail jobs are opening to employ 26.4 million people.
So, when will it be time to reopen the country? Five days ago, The Hill reported on a Reuters/Ipsos poll, taken from 4/15-4/21, with a margin of error of 6%. 72% of Americans were said to support keeping the stay at home orders until "doctors and public health officials say it's safe." Broken down by party, 88% of Democrats agreed, 70% of Independents and 55% of Republicans. An AP/NORC poll had similar numbers for Democrats, with 63% strongly agreeing to keep stay at home orders (except for essential workers), and 28% somewhat agreeing - for a total of 91%. For Republicans, 36% strongly agree and 35% somewhat agree - for a total of 71%.
The flu of 1957-58 was a particularly devastating year. It is estimated that 25% of the population was infected, and that 116,000 people died. Yet, nothing was shut down. The country remained open for business - the people's business, whatever that was. But the question remains, when we do reopen - and some states are starting to do so - what will it look like? Will there be a new normal? Will greeting someone with a handshake ever return? What about dining out? Some restaurants say they will check people for a fever before admitting them. Tables may be fewer. Those with booths may have plexiglass between the booths. A company that designs airplane interiors is already working on a redesign of the seating layout, which may also include plexiglass between the seats.
The hospitality industry, hit hard by the coronavirus, already has new policies in place. Fox News reported that anyone entering the 4 Seasons Hotel in New York City will have a temperature check. Check-in and check-out will be done virtually. Each guest will be provided with 3 large bags for dirty linen. Room service - gone. The restaurant, bar and coffee shop - closed. Those policies certainly do not entice me to think about a trip or hotel stay. The 4 Seasons will have pre-made box meals. And rooms will be deep cleaned between guests. Hilton apparently will keep rooms vacant for 3 days after a guest checks out. What about concerts and sporting events? Will most seats remain empty in order to allow for 6 feet of social distancing between people?
Will retail outlets, supermarkets and big box stores limit the number of people allowed to be inside at the same time. So, will we now wait in line to shop, as has already happened in many places. One woman who has a work-out business said she was inclined to continue to run her business virtually. Many white collar jobs can be done as well remotely as in an office. Will an increasing number of businesses see an advantage to allowing their employees to work at home? It can certainly save on office overhead. On the other hand, my daughter has been working at home for 5 weeks now, and her company and customers seem to have some difficulty in distinguishing between work hours and non-work hours. When we venture out into the world, will a mask be the newest mandatory apparel item in everyone's wardrobe? And will we ever step closer than 6 feet to another person in public again?
According to Fox, there was a study of 5700 patients hospitalized at a Northwell Health System hospital. The study, as reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association, found that of the Covid 19 patients, 94% had at least one other disease or illness. The median age of the patients was 63 years old. 53% had hypertension, 42% were obese, and 32% had diabetes. So, when we reopen, will there be actual orders compelling people in the high risk groups to remain at home? Absent such orders, will those in the high risk groups who get sick and infect others, then be legally responsible?
To end on a hopeful note, we have a story out of UMass Memorial Health Care. It was reported that a gravely ill patient with the coronavirus, improved within a few hours of getting a blood plasma transfusion from a patient who recovered from Covid 19. Let's hope for more of that, and for less cases overall.
Sunday, April 19, 2020
The Coronavirus Five Weeks Later - The Governors Have Their Say
First, the numbers. As of today, worldwide cases total 2,355,676, with 162,032 deaths. The US totals are 742,637 cases and 39,201 deaths. As of yesterday, New York still had the most cases and deaths: 236,732 and 17,671, respectively. Then New Jersey with 81,420 cases and 4,070 deaths, Massachusetts with 34,402 cases and 1,404 deaths, Pennsylvania with 31,069 cases and 836 deaths, Michigan with 30,791 cases and 2,308 deaths and Illinois with 29,160 cases and 1,259 deaths. However, California numbers as of last night were 30,802 cases and 1,148 deaths, with Los Angeles County alone accounting for 12,021 cases and 576 deaths.
Meanwhile, in the prior week another 5.2 million people applied for unemployment, bringing the total for the last 4 weeks to about 22 million. That is more people than live in 48 of the 50 states (not combined, obviously), with the exceptions being Texas with 29 million people and California with nearly 40 million people. It is, frankly, quite scary, and helps to explain why people have been protesting in a push to reopen society. While we are still discussing numbers, here are some interesting poll numbers from the Pew Research Center. The poll was conducted from 4/7 through 4/12, and has a margin of error of +/- 2.1%. 66% of those polled feared that states would reopen too soon, while 32% worried that states would not open soon enough.
When broken down by party we see quite a divergence of views. 81% of Democrats and those leaning Democrat are worried that things would open up too soon. However, Republicans and those leaning Republican are split fairly evenly - 51% worried that things would open too soon, with 48% worried not soon enough. Some in the mainstream media were of the opinion that Republicans just care more about business. I do not think that is it at all. I do think Republicans are more likely to think in terms of liberty. I also think Democrats are more likely to be fearful - whether it is fear of global warming to fear of second hand smoke to fear of offensive language (and needing safe spaces).
Early last week President Trump said this: "When somebody's president of the United states, the authority is total." The comment was in reference to opening up the country, and was clearly incorrect. By mid-week he reversed himself, acknowledging that 50 governors would be making those decisions for their respective states. It is well accepted that states have a general police power. Certainly, the President has the authority to enforce federal laws. But Congress did not pass any legislation giving Trump such broad powers. Even if they had, we also know that the federal government has no inherent power to force states to comply with federal law (supremacy and related issues aside). When former Alabama Governor George Wallace stood at the doors to the University of Alabama, with state troopers at his side, it was with the intent of blocking two black students from attending. President Kennedy federalized the National Guard and ordered them to allow those black students to enter. In that case, Kennedy was enforcing the federal Constitution and federal statutory law.
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo (Dem.) said he would challenge Trump in court if "he's going to force this state...to do something that is reckless or irresponsible, that could endanger human life." Michigan's Governor Gretchen Whitmer (Dem.) imposed what some felt were overly excessive restrictions, such as not being able to travel to a second home within the state, and not allowing big box stores to sell certain items she deemed to be non-essential. Those items included seeds, paint, furniture, carpeting and flooring. Following the protests in Michigan, the state's Attorney General went straight to the race card: "I just can't hear about one more black health care worker, police officer or bus driver dies, while getting a barrage of complaints from white folks outraged because they can't go golfing."
South Dakota's Governor, Kristi Noem (Rep.), has declined to issue a state-wide stay at home order. Noem: "I believe in our freedoms and liberties. What I've seen across the country is so many people give up their liberties for just a little bit of security and they don't have to do that." In a state of just under 885,000 people (as of 2019) they have had 1300 cases of the virus and 7 deaths. Tucker Carlson of Fox News had an interesting exchange with New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy (Dem.). After pointing out that 15 men were arrested for attending a synagogue service, Carlson asked this: "The Bill of Rights...protects Americans' rights - enshrines their right to practice their religion as they see fit...by what authority did you nullify the Bill of Rights in issuing this order?" Murphy: "I wasn't thinking of the Bill of Rights when we did this...we looked at all the data and the science and it says people have to stay away from each other." He further added that he did first consult with religious leaders, including the Archbishop of Newark.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott (Rep.) expects that by Friday all retail outlets can be open for pick up or delivery, but no in-store shopping. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz (Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party) ordered that as of Saturday 5 a.m. certain outdoor activities could resume, including golfing, fishing, boating, hiking and hunting - but still follow social distancing guidelines of staying six feet apart. California Governor Gavin Newsom was the first of the governors to issue a statewide stay-at-home order, having done so on March 19. Newsom issued six guidelines that he will use to assist in determining when and how much of the state should reopen. Included is the ability to monitor the infection, prevent infection, ability of the hospitals to handle new cases, development of therapeutic treatments, the ability of schools and businesses to maintain social distancing, and the ability to reimpose certain restrictive orders. "Normal, it will not be until we have had herd immunity and a vaccine. You may be having dinner with the waiter wearing gloves and maybe a face mask...where your temperature is checked before walking in. These are likely scenarios."
Over the past 100 years or so we have seen a push toward looking to the federal government to solve all of the country's problems. That push, of course, has come mainly from Democrats and their allies in the mainstream media. Republicans have tended to argue for "states' rights." It is interesting, therefore, to see this push back from Democrats now against the federal government when it comes to deciding what is best for each state, and when and under what conditions they should reopen. It is not necessary to agree with this or that particular governor to be reminded of the brilliance of our Founding Fathers in setting up a republic of states.
Meanwhile, in the prior week another 5.2 million people applied for unemployment, bringing the total for the last 4 weeks to about 22 million. That is more people than live in 48 of the 50 states (not combined, obviously), with the exceptions being Texas with 29 million people and California with nearly 40 million people. It is, frankly, quite scary, and helps to explain why people have been protesting in a push to reopen society. While we are still discussing numbers, here are some interesting poll numbers from the Pew Research Center. The poll was conducted from 4/7 through 4/12, and has a margin of error of +/- 2.1%. 66% of those polled feared that states would reopen too soon, while 32% worried that states would not open soon enough.
When broken down by party we see quite a divergence of views. 81% of Democrats and those leaning Democrat are worried that things would open up too soon. However, Republicans and those leaning Republican are split fairly evenly - 51% worried that things would open too soon, with 48% worried not soon enough. Some in the mainstream media were of the opinion that Republicans just care more about business. I do not think that is it at all. I do think Republicans are more likely to think in terms of liberty. I also think Democrats are more likely to be fearful - whether it is fear of global warming to fear of second hand smoke to fear of offensive language (and needing safe spaces).
Early last week President Trump said this: "When somebody's president of the United states, the authority is total." The comment was in reference to opening up the country, and was clearly incorrect. By mid-week he reversed himself, acknowledging that 50 governors would be making those decisions for their respective states. It is well accepted that states have a general police power. Certainly, the President has the authority to enforce federal laws. But Congress did not pass any legislation giving Trump such broad powers. Even if they had, we also know that the federal government has no inherent power to force states to comply with federal law (supremacy and related issues aside). When former Alabama Governor George Wallace stood at the doors to the University of Alabama, with state troopers at his side, it was with the intent of blocking two black students from attending. President Kennedy federalized the National Guard and ordered them to allow those black students to enter. In that case, Kennedy was enforcing the federal Constitution and federal statutory law.
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo (Dem.) said he would challenge Trump in court if "he's going to force this state...to do something that is reckless or irresponsible, that could endanger human life." Michigan's Governor Gretchen Whitmer (Dem.) imposed what some felt were overly excessive restrictions, such as not being able to travel to a second home within the state, and not allowing big box stores to sell certain items she deemed to be non-essential. Those items included seeds, paint, furniture, carpeting and flooring. Following the protests in Michigan, the state's Attorney General went straight to the race card: "I just can't hear about one more black health care worker, police officer or bus driver dies, while getting a barrage of complaints from white folks outraged because they can't go golfing."
South Dakota's Governor, Kristi Noem (Rep.), has declined to issue a state-wide stay at home order. Noem: "I believe in our freedoms and liberties. What I've seen across the country is so many people give up their liberties for just a little bit of security and they don't have to do that." In a state of just under 885,000 people (as of 2019) they have had 1300 cases of the virus and 7 deaths. Tucker Carlson of Fox News had an interesting exchange with New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy (Dem.). After pointing out that 15 men were arrested for attending a synagogue service, Carlson asked this: "The Bill of Rights...protects Americans' rights - enshrines their right to practice their religion as they see fit...by what authority did you nullify the Bill of Rights in issuing this order?" Murphy: "I wasn't thinking of the Bill of Rights when we did this...we looked at all the data and the science and it says people have to stay away from each other." He further added that he did first consult with religious leaders, including the Archbishop of Newark.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott (Rep.) expects that by Friday all retail outlets can be open for pick up or delivery, but no in-store shopping. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz (Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party) ordered that as of Saturday 5 a.m. certain outdoor activities could resume, including golfing, fishing, boating, hiking and hunting - but still follow social distancing guidelines of staying six feet apart. California Governor Gavin Newsom was the first of the governors to issue a statewide stay-at-home order, having done so on March 19. Newsom issued six guidelines that he will use to assist in determining when and how much of the state should reopen. Included is the ability to monitor the infection, prevent infection, ability of the hospitals to handle new cases, development of therapeutic treatments, the ability of schools and businesses to maintain social distancing, and the ability to reimpose certain restrictive orders. "Normal, it will not be until we have had herd immunity and a vaccine. You may be having dinner with the waiter wearing gloves and maybe a face mask...where your temperature is checked before walking in. These are likely scenarios."
Over the past 100 years or so we have seen a push toward looking to the federal government to solve all of the country's problems. That push, of course, has come mainly from Democrats and their allies in the mainstream media. Republicans have tended to argue for "states' rights." It is interesting, therefore, to see this push back from Democrats now against the federal government when it comes to deciding what is best for each state, and when and under what conditions they should reopen. It is not necessary to agree with this or that particular governor to be reminded of the brilliance of our Founding Fathers in setting up a republic of states.
Sunday, April 12, 2020
The Coronavirus - Four Weeks Later
It is hard to believe that it has now been 4 weeks that we have avoided any personal interactions. My wife and I mostly stay at home. Over the last four weeks we have gone into the office periodically, but have not allowed another soul in - not other staff, not clients and not vendors. No one.
The numbers. There were a total of 547,681 cases of coronavirus, with 21,692 deaths in the US, as reported earlier today on Fox. The states with the most cases are New York with 188,694, and 9,385 deaths; New Jersey with 61,850 cases and 2,350 deaths; Massachusetts with 25,475 cases and 756 deaths; Michigan with 24,638 cases and 1,487 deaths; and Pennsylvania with 22,833 cases and 507 deaths. States with less cases but higher numbers of deaths include Louisiana, 840; Illinois, 720; and California, 609. Some are postulating that millions may have been infected but never tested.
According to Fox, the most populous county in the country - Los Angeles County - has "extended its safer-at-home and business-closures orders through 5/15/20." Also according to Fox, Los Angeles County has 8,873 cases, with 265 deaths. Of course, all numbers in this and the preceding paragraph are already outdated. NBC also reported that 48% of employees in the County either lost their jobs or had their hours reduced. Total jobless claims for just the last 3 weeks in the USA now equal a whopping 16,780,000. That number is approximately the total number of people living in our four largest cities - New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Houston.
But not everyone is fixated on the coronavirus. The police chief of Seattle Tweeted this: "Washington State is no place for hate...hate has no place in our community. Report hate, including racist name calling, to 911. We are here to help, and will respond to investigate." And this: "Even racist name-calling should be reported to police. If you aren't sure if a hate crime occurred, call 911. We are here to help." Call 911 for racist name-calling? Seriously? Racist name-calling may be exceedingly bad behavior, but - absent a threat - it is definitely not a crime. It is, in fact, protected speech. At a time when the 911 emergency system is likely overburdened already, you want people to report name-calling? If I am not careful I would be inclined to call this police chief a name - but not based on race; no, it would be based on stupidity.
Speaking of stupidity, somebody(s) decided it would be a good idea to see if they could break the record for traveling by car from New York to Los Angeles. Given our near empty roads, they succeeded. It only took 26 hours and 38 minutes. Assuming they traveled the shortest route, they would had to have averaged 103 miles per hour. If they want to risk their own lives, that's their business. But there are still others on the roads, including many first responders out there trying to help others without idiots putting them at risk.
One letter writer or Op-Ed writer (I do not remember which) expressed the frustration that many of us are feeling, but did so in a way that may only be described as overblown: "I'm unable to get ready to celebrate freedom when I feel imprisoned in my own home." The celebration of freedom was in reference to Passover, when we Jews celebrate our departure from Egypt, when we went from being slaves to a free people. But "imprisoned" is too forceful a word. For most of us, our so-called imprisonment includes having the equivalent of a nearly unlimited library in our own homes - as long as we have internet access. Most of us have TV, often with numerous channels from which to choose old and new TV shows, and old and new movies. Many have yards allowing them to sit outside, weather permitting. And we are able to go for walks, jog or ride a bike. I get it. We cannot just pick up and go wherever we want whenever we want. It is frustrating. But it is not prison. And maybe we will all appreciate just how free a people we are once society returns to some semblance of normalcy.
I was not alone in feeling the pain of that young woman in Pennsylvania getting a citation for over $200 for the simple act of driving her car. (See the prior post.) Senator Ted Cruz had some advice for the authorities in Pennsylvania: "Resist authoritarianism and don't abuse power. Driving a car alone is not a public health threat." And conservative political commentator and author, Mark Levin, called it "outrageous fascistic behavior."
A Fox News poll conducted from April 4 through April 7, found Trump's approval rating at 49%, with 89% of Republicans approving. Trump's coronavirus team all got positive approval ratings, with Dr. Fauci getting 80%, Dr. Birx at 62%, Vice President Pence at 52% and President Trump at 51%. 57% agreed that the fight against the virus is going in the right direction, with 30% saying we are going in the wrong direction. And while 56% say that they approve of the Federal government's response, a much larger 77% approve of their state government's handling of the virus. But it seems to me that is how it should be. We should always feel that our more local state government is better at responding to the needs of residents than the more distant Federal bureaucracy. Still, a full 80% favor a nationwide stay-in-place order.
There was an interesting question posed by Fox, regarding how the virus may have affected people's interactions with others. 34% found people to be more friendly and compassionate, while a nearly equal number, 35%, found there to be no difference. And 21% felt that others were less friendly.
President Trump just recently declared a major disaster in Wyoming. The result was a first in US history, with a major disaster being declared simultaneously in all 50 states. The New York Times reported yesterday that the President is being pushed by "bankers, corporate executives and industrialists" to reopen the country, while "the medical experts beg for more time to curb the coronavirus." Trump: "I'm going to have to make a decision, and I only hope to G-d that it's the right decision." But the Times went on to tell us that "the decision on when and how to reopen is not entirely Mr. Trump's to make because he never ordered it closed. The stay-at-home edicts that have kept the vast bulk of Americans indoors were issued by governors state by state." So, let's pray to G-d that all our political leaders make the right decisions. And that a vaccine and anti-viral treatment are speedily developed.
The numbers. There were a total of 547,681 cases of coronavirus, with 21,692 deaths in the US, as reported earlier today on Fox. The states with the most cases are New York with 188,694, and 9,385 deaths; New Jersey with 61,850 cases and 2,350 deaths; Massachusetts with 25,475 cases and 756 deaths; Michigan with 24,638 cases and 1,487 deaths; and Pennsylvania with 22,833 cases and 507 deaths. States with less cases but higher numbers of deaths include Louisiana, 840; Illinois, 720; and California, 609. Some are postulating that millions may have been infected but never tested.
According to Fox, the most populous county in the country - Los Angeles County - has "extended its safer-at-home and business-closures orders through 5/15/20." Also according to Fox, Los Angeles County has 8,873 cases, with 265 deaths. Of course, all numbers in this and the preceding paragraph are already outdated. NBC also reported that 48% of employees in the County either lost their jobs or had their hours reduced. Total jobless claims for just the last 3 weeks in the USA now equal a whopping 16,780,000. That number is approximately the total number of people living in our four largest cities - New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Houston.
But not everyone is fixated on the coronavirus. The police chief of Seattle Tweeted this: "Washington State is no place for hate...hate has no place in our community. Report hate, including racist name calling, to 911. We are here to help, and will respond to investigate." And this: "Even racist name-calling should be reported to police. If you aren't sure if a hate crime occurred, call 911. We are here to help." Call 911 for racist name-calling? Seriously? Racist name-calling may be exceedingly bad behavior, but - absent a threat - it is definitely not a crime. It is, in fact, protected speech. At a time when the 911 emergency system is likely overburdened already, you want people to report name-calling? If I am not careful I would be inclined to call this police chief a name - but not based on race; no, it would be based on stupidity.
Speaking of stupidity, somebody(s) decided it would be a good idea to see if they could break the record for traveling by car from New York to Los Angeles. Given our near empty roads, they succeeded. It only took 26 hours and 38 minutes. Assuming they traveled the shortest route, they would had to have averaged 103 miles per hour. If they want to risk their own lives, that's their business. But there are still others on the roads, including many first responders out there trying to help others without idiots putting them at risk.
One letter writer or Op-Ed writer (I do not remember which) expressed the frustration that many of us are feeling, but did so in a way that may only be described as overblown: "I'm unable to get ready to celebrate freedom when I feel imprisoned in my own home." The celebration of freedom was in reference to Passover, when we Jews celebrate our departure from Egypt, when we went from being slaves to a free people. But "imprisoned" is too forceful a word. For most of us, our so-called imprisonment includes having the equivalent of a nearly unlimited library in our own homes - as long as we have internet access. Most of us have TV, often with numerous channels from which to choose old and new TV shows, and old and new movies. Many have yards allowing them to sit outside, weather permitting. And we are able to go for walks, jog or ride a bike. I get it. We cannot just pick up and go wherever we want whenever we want. It is frustrating. But it is not prison. And maybe we will all appreciate just how free a people we are once society returns to some semblance of normalcy.
I was not alone in feeling the pain of that young woman in Pennsylvania getting a citation for over $200 for the simple act of driving her car. (See the prior post.) Senator Ted Cruz had some advice for the authorities in Pennsylvania: "Resist authoritarianism and don't abuse power. Driving a car alone is not a public health threat." And conservative political commentator and author, Mark Levin, called it "outrageous fascistic behavior."
A Fox News poll conducted from April 4 through April 7, found Trump's approval rating at 49%, with 89% of Republicans approving. Trump's coronavirus team all got positive approval ratings, with Dr. Fauci getting 80%, Dr. Birx at 62%, Vice President Pence at 52% and President Trump at 51%. 57% agreed that the fight against the virus is going in the right direction, with 30% saying we are going in the wrong direction. And while 56% say that they approve of the Federal government's response, a much larger 77% approve of their state government's handling of the virus. But it seems to me that is how it should be. We should always feel that our more local state government is better at responding to the needs of residents than the more distant Federal bureaucracy. Still, a full 80% favor a nationwide stay-in-place order.
There was an interesting question posed by Fox, regarding how the virus may have affected people's interactions with others. 34% found people to be more friendly and compassionate, while a nearly equal number, 35%, found there to be no difference. And 21% felt that others were less friendly.
President Trump just recently declared a major disaster in Wyoming. The result was a first in US history, with a major disaster being declared simultaneously in all 50 states. The New York Times reported yesterday that the President is being pushed by "bankers, corporate executives and industrialists" to reopen the country, while "the medical experts beg for more time to curb the coronavirus." Trump: "I'm going to have to make a decision, and I only hope to G-d that it's the right decision." But the Times went on to tell us that "the decision on when and how to reopen is not entirely Mr. Trump's to make because he never ordered it closed. The stay-at-home edicts that have kept the vast bulk of Americans indoors were issued by governors state by state." So, let's pray to G-d that all our political leaders make the right decisions. And that a vaccine and anti-viral treatment are speedily developed.
Sunday, April 5, 2020
The Coronavirus - Three Weeks Later
(Ed. note: In the last post I was highly critical of CNN commentator Chris Cuomo. Since then, it was announced that Cuomo, brother of New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and son of former New York Governor Mario Cuomo, has been diagnosed with the coronavirus. Notwithstanding my political differences with him, I wish Cuomo a complete and speedy recovery.)
First, the numbers. The latest I saw (again, outdated already) are 330,991 cases in the US, with 9,437 deaths. The states with the most cases are New York with 122,177 cases and 4,159 deaths, New Jersey with 37,505 cases and 917 deaths, Michigan with 15,718 cases and 617 deaths, California with 14,055 cases and 325 deaths and Louisiana with 13,010 cases and 477 deaths.
The new unemployment numbers are both shocking and distressing. For the week ending March 28, there were 6.6 million new claims for unemployment benefits. Combined with the prior week's numbers, that is 10 million new claims in two weeks. It is good to hear stories of people able to afford it ordering take-out from their neighborhood restaurants. One friend advised me that they are continuing to pay their periodic cleaning person, without them actually going to clean the house.
The impact on society. The illnesses and deaths are tragic. The rise in unemployment is devastating. But what structural changes to society will we be seeing - and will they be temporary or permanent? LA Mayor Eric Garcetti said this: "if any non-essential businesses continue to operate in violation of the stay at home order, we're going to act to enforce the safer at home order and ensure their compliance...we want to thank you for turning folks in and making sure we are all safe...snitches get rewards." I certainly understand the need for everyone to comply, but encouraging neighbor to report on neighbor leaves me with an uneasy feeling.
And California Governor Gavin Newsom told us: "Absolutely, we see this as an opportunity (to) reshape the way we do business and how we govern." Among other things, Newsom referred to income inequality as issues "we've long been struggling to address." Again, in 2008 Rahm Emanuel said "you never want a serious crisis to go to waste. And what I mean by that, it's an opportunity to do things that you think you could not do before."
In Pennsylvania, a 19 year old woman was ticketed for taking a ride in her car. That ticket cost her $202.25. The ticket indicated that the woman "failed to abide by the order of the Governor and Secretary of Health issued to control the spread of a communicable disease, requiring the closure of all non-life sustaining businesses as of 20:00 hours on 3/29/20. To wit, defendant states that she was 'going for a drive' after this violation was in effect."
On the other hand, there are nine states that, as of yesterday, have failed to issue stay at home orders. Those states are Arkansas, Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Utah and Wyoming. All those states have Republican governors. Some cities within those states have issued their own stay at home orders. In total, 311 million Americans are living under such orders. But the articles that I have read asking if the cure is worse than the illness have all been written by conservatives. I previously admitted that my initial reaction to the coronavirus story was that it was overblown. I quickly changed my outlook. Coronavirus is easily spread, and it seems in many instances to be lethal quickly. Nevertheless, is it unfair to just ask the question of how much society should change in dealing with this virus?
And anti-Trump columnist Bret Stephens asked in his 4/4/20 Op-Ed in the New York Times, if some countries might be using the virus as a pretext to become more authoritarian. For example, Philippine President Duterte "used the pandemic to issue shoot-to-kill orders against political protesters." And, as a big supporter of Israel, Stephens nevertheless said this: "In Israel, the government's decision to use cellphone data to track the movements of infected individuals quickly became a model and alibi for other states to pick up the practice, with no scruples about the data they collected."
In this election year, our democracy is clearly being affected. Neither Joe Biden nor Bernie Sanders is able to hold campaign rallies. President Trump is unable to do so as well, but he has the incumbent's advantage of regularly being in front of the camera. The Democrats have moved the dates of their convention from July 13 through July 16, to August 17 through August 20. The Republican convention is scheduled for August 24 through August 27. But who knows whether these conventions will be able to proceed in the usual fashion. Or how the November presidential election will be accomplished. Even now, Congress has no apparent mechanism for operating remotely. According to the 4/4/20 editorial in the New York Times, House Speaker Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader McConnell actually agree on something - Congress needs to meet in session in the Capitol. Is that still feasible? Shouldn't they already have had a back-up plan for working and voting remotely?
Here's an interesting statistic. For the first quarter of 2020, with major news stories including a presidential election, a presidential impeachment and the coronavirus, Fox News far eclipsed MSNBC and CNN in the ratings - an average of 3.4 million prime time viewers, versus 1.9 million for MSNBC and 1.4 million for CNN. Fox had the top 5 cable shows, and 13 out of the top 15 shows. Hannity had an average of 4.2 million viewers, Tucker Carlson had 4 million, then it was The Five, The Ingraham Angle and Special Report with Bret Baier. Rachel Maddow of MSNBC was sixth. CNN's top show was The Lead with Jake Tapper - coming in at number 22. There is a reason for the success of Fox.
First, the numbers. The latest I saw (again, outdated already) are 330,991 cases in the US, with 9,437 deaths. The states with the most cases are New York with 122,177 cases and 4,159 deaths, New Jersey with 37,505 cases and 917 deaths, Michigan with 15,718 cases and 617 deaths, California with 14,055 cases and 325 deaths and Louisiana with 13,010 cases and 477 deaths.
The new unemployment numbers are both shocking and distressing. For the week ending March 28, there were 6.6 million new claims for unemployment benefits. Combined with the prior week's numbers, that is 10 million new claims in two weeks. It is good to hear stories of people able to afford it ordering take-out from their neighborhood restaurants. One friend advised me that they are continuing to pay their periodic cleaning person, without them actually going to clean the house.
The impact on society. The illnesses and deaths are tragic. The rise in unemployment is devastating. But what structural changes to society will we be seeing - and will they be temporary or permanent? LA Mayor Eric Garcetti said this: "if any non-essential businesses continue to operate in violation of the stay at home order, we're going to act to enforce the safer at home order and ensure their compliance...we want to thank you for turning folks in and making sure we are all safe...snitches get rewards." I certainly understand the need for everyone to comply, but encouraging neighbor to report on neighbor leaves me with an uneasy feeling.
And California Governor Gavin Newsom told us: "Absolutely, we see this as an opportunity (to) reshape the way we do business and how we govern." Among other things, Newsom referred to income inequality as issues "we've long been struggling to address." Again, in 2008 Rahm Emanuel said "you never want a serious crisis to go to waste. And what I mean by that, it's an opportunity to do things that you think you could not do before."
In Pennsylvania, a 19 year old woman was ticketed for taking a ride in her car. That ticket cost her $202.25. The ticket indicated that the woman "failed to abide by the order of the Governor and Secretary of Health issued to control the spread of a communicable disease, requiring the closure of all non-life sustaining businesses as of 20:00 hours on 3/29/20. To wit, defendant states that she was 'going for a drive' after this violation was in effect."
On the other hand, there are nine states that, as of yesterday, have failed to issue stay at home orders. Those states are Arkansas, Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Utah and Wyoming. All those states have Republican governors. Some cities within those states have issued their own stay at home orders. In total, 311 million Americans are living under such orders. But the articles that I have read asking if the cure is worse than the illness have all been written by conservatives. I previously admitted that my initial reaction to the coronavirus story was that it was overblown. I quickly changed my outlook. Coronavirus is easily spread, and it seems in many instances to be lethal quickly. Nevertheless, is it unfair to just ask the question of how much society should change in dealing with this virus?
And anti-Trump columnist Bret Stephens asked in his 4/4/20 Op-Ed in the New York Times, if some countries might be using the virus as a pretext to become more authoritarian. For example, Philippine President Duterte "used the pandemic to issue shoot-to-kill orders against political protesters." And, as a big supporter of Israel, Stephens nevertheless said this: "In Israel, the government's decision to use cellphone data to track the movements of infected individuals quickly became a model and alibi for other states to pick up the practice, with no scruples about the data they collected."
In this election year, our democracy is clearly being affected. Neither Joe Biden nor Bernie Sanders is able to hold campaign rallies. President Trump is unable to do so as well, but he has the incumbent's advantage of regularly being in front of the camera. The Democrats have moved the dates of their convention from July 13 through July 16, to August 17 through August 20. The Republican convention is scheduled for August 24 through August 27. But who knows whether these conventions will be able to proceed in the usual fashion. Or how the November presidential election will be accomplished. Even now, Congress has no apparent mechanism for operating remotely. According to the 4/4/20 editorial in the New York Times, House Speaker Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader McConnell actually agree on something - Congress needs to meet in session in the Capitol. Is that still feasible? Shouldn't they already have had a back-up plan for working and voting remotely?
Here's an interesting statistic. For the first quarter of 2020, with major news stories including a presidential election, a presidential impeachment and the coronavirus, Fox News far eclipsed MSNBC and CNN in the ratings - an average of 3.4 million prime time viewers, versus 1.9 million for MSNBC and 1.4 million for CNN. Fox had the top 5 cable shows, and 13 out of the top 15 shows. Hannity had an average of 4.2 million viewers, Tucker Carlson had 4 million, then it was The Five, The Ingraham Angle and Special Report with Bret Baier. Rachel Maddow of MSNBC was sixth. CNN's top show was The Lead with Jake Tapper - coming in at number 22. There is a reason for the success of Fox.
Sunday, March 29, 2020
The Coronavirus - Two Weeks Later
As of about 4pm today, the total worldwide cases numbered 716,101, with worldwide deaths totaling 33,854. The total number of cases in the US was at 137,294, with 2,414 deaths. Obviously, those numbers have become outdated as I am typing this. The New York Times reported yesterday that the death rate in Italy was 10.8%, in Spain 8%, and in Germany only 0.72%. Based on the US numbers above, the death rate here is 1.7%. With the focus on cases and deaths, it is easy to forget that the majority of cases involve mild to moderate symptoms, with most people recovering.
It remains the case that older people are more at risk, but there has been an increasing number of cases and deaths among people under 60 years old. Men are apparently somewhat more vulnerable than women. Those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk, as are those with certain pre-existing conditions, such as cardiovascular disease (congestive heart failure and clogged arteries, although I have read hypertension as well). Diabetes seems to be another pre-existing condition increasing one's risk.
As happens with a national crisis, the President's approval rating has improved. A Gallup poll from 3/13-3/22/20, reflected 60% approved of President Trump's handling of the virus. Broken down by party, 94% of Republicans approve, 60% of independents approve, but only 27% of Democrats approve. Trump's overall approval rating was at 49%. In an ABC/IPSOS poll from 3/18-3/19/20, 55% approved of Trump's handling of the virus. A Fox poll had Trump's approval at 51%. A Pew Research poll from 3/19-3/24/20 showed 48% saying Trump was doing an excellent or good job, with Republicans at 83% and Democrats only at 18%. Significantly, however, Pew had Trump's approval among blacks up from 8% in January to 18%, among Hispanics up from 27% to 37% and among women up from 37% to 44%. If the Democrats simply disagreed with Trump's policies or simply disliked him, Trump's overall approval rating would be even higher. But we know that many Democrats have a visceral hatred of the President - which nothing can change.
Case in point: Nancy Pelosi, who said: "His (Trump's) denial at the beginning was deadly, his delaying of getting of getting equipment...to where it is needed is deadly..." Yeah, thanks Pelosi for leaving town and delaying a final vote on the 2 trillion dollar stimulus. Not to mention that Pelosi and Schumer held up the Senate's vote on the stimulus until they were able to throw in some money for left-wing causes unrelated to the virus. Pelosi has frequently said she prays for Trump. I'm sure. And I'm sure she passed on those same sentiments on to her daughter Christine, who recently said "Rand Paul's neighbor was right." Paul tested positive for the coronavirus, and delayed his self-quarantine. But to say that Paul's neighbor was right? That guy broke 5 of Paul's ribs and Paul had to have part of his lung removed. What a lovely family.
Another hater, Chris Cuomo of CNN, said this: "The President should say himself what his fringe friends are saying...they're okay with a certain number of the frail and the greatest generation dying off to make the economy come back sooner...your actions show the same inclination." My apologies, but what an asshole! So, a few people on the "fringe" may have said what Cuomo claims, and therefore that is what the President wants. Trump had expressed his hope that churches could be full by Easter Sunday, two weeks from today on April 12. Today, however, based on the recommendation of both Dr. Fauci and Dr. Birx, the President announced that the social distancing policies will remain in place through the end of April, and possibly beyond.
Of course, the Democrats and the mainstream media have another agenda beyond their hatred of Trump. We still have an election coming up in November. As presumed Democratic candidate Joe Biden is much less in the news these days, they clearly see a need to continue their non-stop attacks on Trump. Here's Rachel Maddow of MSNBC: "If he (Trump) keeps lying like he has been every day on stuff this important, all of us should stop broadcasting it (it being the now daily press briefings by Trump and the rest of his coronavirus team)." Funny. Not that long ago Trump was criticized for ending the White House daily press briefing. Now that Trump is doing it, Maddow does not want the media to broadcast it. She does not want the American people to even be able to hear from Dr. Fauci and Dr. Birx. Another elitist who does not trust the American people to decide for themselves. And, of course, she wants to deny Trump the media attention while Biden is mostly sidelined.
The unemployment numbers for the week ending 3/21/20 reached 3.283 million people. That number far exceeded the prior record of 695,000 in one week. The states suffering with the most claims were Pennsylvania with 378,908, Ohio with 187,784, California with 186,809, Texas with 155,657 and New Jersey with 155,454. Eventually, the 2 trillion dollar stimulus was passed. The Senate voted in favor 96-0. The House approved it on a voice vote. It is my understanding that the payment being made to individuals may be based on your 2019 income if you have filed your tax returns. Otherwise, it is based on one's 2018 income. Individuals who earned up to $75,000 will get $1200, and if married filing jointly will receive $2400 if the total earnings were under $150,000. But the amount of the check is decreased for earners between $75,000 and $99,000, with those earning more getting zero. Those receiving unemployment benefits will receive an extra $600 a week for up to 4 months.
$377 billion will be allotted for federally guaranteed loans to small businesses. $117 billion is earmarked for hospitals. $500 billion is for a government lending program for companies in distress. But there is a catch for some businesses as the government will be able to take an equity share in some of those businesses, such as airlines. This is somewhat reminiscent of the 2008 bailout of banks and the auto industry. It seems, however, that government involvement will be far more significant this time. While I support the government's involvement in trying to financially help individuals and businesses, I hope the involvement does not need to be more than a temporary fix. When we are past this, business people should be running businesses, not government bureaucrats.
It remains the case that older people are more at risk, but there has been an increasing number of cases and deaths among people under 60 years old. Men are apparently somewhat more vulnerable than women. Those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk, as are those with certain pre-existing conditions, such as cardiovascular disease (congestive heart failure and clogged arteries, although I have read hypertension as well). Diabetes seems to be another pre-existing condition increasing one's risk.
As happens with a national crisis, the President's approval rating has improved. A Gallup poll from 3/13-3/22/20, reflected 60% approved of President Trump's handling of the virus. Broken down by party, 94% of Republicans approve, 60% of independents approve, but only 27% of Democrats approve. Trump's overall approval rating was at 49%. In an ABC/IPSOS poll from 3/18-3/19/20, 55% approved of Trump's handling of the virus. A Fox poll had Trump's approval at 51%. A Pew Research poll from 3/19-3/24/20 showed 48% saying Trump was doing an excellent or good job, with Republicans at 83% and Democrats only at 18%. Significantly, however, Pew had Trump's approval among blacks up from 8% in January to 18%, among Hispanics up from 27% to 37% and among women up from 37% to 44%. If the Democrats simply disagreed with Trump's policies or simply disliked him, Trump's overall approval rating would be even higher. But we know that many Democrats have a visceral hatred of the President - which nothing can change.
Case in point: Nancy Pelosi, who said: "His (Trump's) denial at the beginning was deadly, his delaying of getting of getting equipment...to where it is needed is deadly..." Yeah, thanks Pelosi for leaving town and delaying a final vote on the 2 trillion dollar stimulus. Not to mention that Pelosi and Schumer held up the Senate's vote on the stimulus until they were able to throw in some money for left-wing causes unrelated to the virus. Pelosi has frequently said she prays for Trump. I'm sure. And I'm sure she passed on those same sentiments on to her daughter Christine, who recently said "Rand Paul's neighbor was right." Paul tested positive for the coronavirus, and delayed his self-quarantine. But to say that Paul's neighbor was right? That guy broke 5 of Paul's ribs and Paul had to have part of his lung removed. What a lovely family.
Another hater, Chris Cuomo of CNN, said this: "The President should say himself what his fringe friends are saying...they're okay with a certain number of the frail and the greatest generation dying off to make the economy come back sooner...your actions show the same inclination." My apologies, but what an asshole! So, a few people on the "fringe" may have said what Cuomo claims, and therefore that is what the President wants. Trump had expressed his hope that churches could be full by Easter Sunday, two weeks from today on April 12. Today, however, based on the recommendation of both Dr. Fauci and Dr. Birx, the President announced that the social distancing policies will remain in place through the end of April, and possibly beyond.
Of course, the Democrats and the mainstream media have another agenda beyond their hatred of Trump. We still have an election coming up in November. As presumed Democratic candidate Joe Biden is much less in the news these days, they clearly see a need to continue their non-stop attacks on Trump. Here's Rachel Maddow of MSNBC: "If he (Trump) keeps lying like he has been every day on stuff this important, all of us should stop broadcasting it (it being the now daily press briefings by Trump and the rest of his coronavirus team)." Funny. Not that long ago Trump was criticized for ending the White House daily press briefing. Now that Trump is doing it, Maddow does not want the media to broadcast it. She does not want the American people to even be able to hear from Dr. Fauci and Dr. Birx. Another elitist who does not trust the American people to decide for themselves. And, of course, she wants to deny Trump the media attention while Biden is mostly sidelined.
The unemployment numbers for the week ending 3/21/20 reached 3.283 million people. That number far exceeded the prior record of 695,000 in one week. The states suffering with the most claims were Pennsylvania with 378,908, Ohio with 187,784, California with 186,809, Texas with 155,657 and New Jersey with 155,454. Eventually, the 2 trillion dollar stimulus was passed. The Senate voted in favor 96-0. The House approved it on a voice vote. It is my understanding that the payment being made to individuals may be based on your 2019 income if you have filed your tax returns. Otherwise, it is based on one's 2018 income. Individuals who earned up to $75,000 will get $1200, and if married filing jointly will receive $2400 if the total earnings were under $150,000. But the amount of the check is decreased for earners between $75,000 and $99,000, with those earning more getting zero. Those receiving unemployment benefits will receive an extra $600 a week for up to 4 months.
$377 billion will be allotted for federally guaranteed loans to small businesses. $117 billion is earmarked for hospitals. $500 billion is for a government lending program for companies in distress. But there is a catch for some businesses as the government will be able to take an equity share in some of those businesses, such as airlines. This is somewhat reminiscent of the 2008 bailout of banks and the auto industry. It seems, however, that government involvement will be far more significant this time. While I support the government's involvement in trying to financially help individuals and businesses, I hope the involvement does not need to be more than a temporary fix. When we are past this, business people should be running businesses, not government bureaucrats.
Sunday, March 22, 2020
The Coronavirus - One Week Later
As of noon today, Fox News reported 31,057 US cases and 390 deaths. By the time you read this, those numbers will be inaccurate. We pray not significantly inaccurate. At least 7 states have issued "stay at home" orders. The list includes California, New York, New Jersey, Illinois, Ohio, Connecticut and Louisiana. Hawaii issued a 2 week quarantine order, punishable by a $5000 fine and one year in jail. Putting anybody but violent offenders in jails right now seems to me to be contraindicated.
The last I saw, New York had 15,168 cases, by far the most. New Jersey had 1,914, Washington had 1,793, California had 1,200, Michigan had 1,035 and Florida had 824 cases. New York City alone had 9,654 cases - nearly a third of the total US cases.
The California Governor and State Public Health Officer ordered "all individuals living in the State of California to stay home or at their place of residence except as needed..." Undoubtedly, other state's orders are similar. Of course, there are various exceptions, including health care providers, first responders - including social workers dealing with cases of abuse, plummers, electricians, exterminators, grocery stores, pharmacies, utility workers, gas stations, postal services, the media, banks and defense/national security related employees. Also excepted in California are professional workers (lawyers and accountants) "when necessary to assist in compliance with legally mandated activities and critical sector services." Whatever all that means.
California's Order prohibits dining in restaurants, although take-out and delivery is permitted. Also ordered closed are bars, nightclubs, entertainment venues, gyms, public events, convention centers and hair and nail salons. I saw on TV a picture of the Paramus, NJ mall parking lot. Empty! As of Thursday, there were 281,000 new initial claims for unemployment benefits. That was 33% higher than the week before. CNN reported that Goldman Sachs was predicting 2.25 million new initial claims.
I am still seeing a discussion by some of the need to quickly reduce the number of cases and deaths from coronavirus versus how much damage to the economy we should tolerate. I do not have the answer. But the number of cases and deaths is rising rapidly - as are the number of unemployed. One thing I do feel confident to say is that this virus, and the social and economic repercussions from it, is likely to have an impact on the election.
I remain reluctant to discuss the politics. However, I do need to make something clear. Whatever President Trump does or does not do, he will be severely criticized by the mainstream media and the Democrats. Just one case in point. On January 30, the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus to be a "Public Health Emergency." On January 31 Trump barred entry into the US from China. Likely Democratic nominee for President, Joe Biden, called the action "hysterical xenophobia." And Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said it was "an excuse to further his (Trump's) ongoing war against immigrants." Yet, Dr. Anthony Fauci said shutting down air travel from China was likely a big help in curtailing the spread of the coronavirus in the US. So let's hear it for the Democrats who would favor political correctness over the safety and well-being of Americans. Oh wait, they already do that, as with protecting our borders.
In this time of social distancing and isolation, one of our daughters set up a virtual Shabbat on Friday night for our immediate family. We said and sang Shabbat prayers together, ate together and schmoozed for 2 1/2 hours. It was a nice way to catch up and keep in touch while being separated physically.
And, to end on a humorous note...On Thursday night my Rabbi at Chabad gave his weekly sermon online. He could not deliver the sermon on Shabbat (Friday night) because orthodox rabbis will not use electronic devices on Shabbat (with the exception being to save a life, as all the rules are superseded by the need to save a life). We were connected through Zoom. It was easy to log in, and to be able to see and hear the Rabbi. We were also able to hear and see one another. So they asked everyone to mute the sound on their computers so there would not be constant background noise while the Rabbi was speaking. One female congregant failed to mute her sound. During the sermon she could be heard yelling at someone "bullshit!" She provided some much needed laughter in these stressful times.
The last I saw, New York had 15,168 cases, by far the most. New Jersey had 1,914, Washington had 1,793, California had 1,200, Michigan had 1,035 and Florida had 824 cases. New York City alone had 9,654 cases - nearly a third of the total US cases.
The California Governor and State Public Health Officer ordered "all individuals living in the State of California to stay home or at their place of residence except as needed..." Undoubtedly, other state's orders are similar. Of course, there are various exceptions, including health care providers, first responders - including social workers dealing with cases of abuse, plummers, electricians, exterminators, grocery stores, pharmacies, utility workers, gas stations, postal services, the media, banks and defense/national security related employees. Also excepted in California are professional workers (lawyers and accountants) "when necessary to assist in compliance with legally mandated activities and critical sector services." Whatever all that means.
California's Order prohibits dining in restaurants, although take-out and delivery is permitted. Also ordered closed are bars, nightclubs, entertainment venues, gyms, public events, convention centers and hair and nail salons. I saw on TV a picture of the Paramus, NJ mall parking lot. Empty! As of Thursday, there were 281,000 new initial claims for unemployment benefits. That was 33% higher than the week before. CNN reported that Goldman Sachs was predicting 2.25 million new initial claims.
I am still seeing a discussion by some of the need to quickly reduce the number of cases and deaths from coronavirus versus how much damage to the economy we should tolerate. I do not have the answer. But the number of cases and deaths is rising rapidly - as are the number of unemployed. One thing I do feel confident to say is that this virus, and the social and economic repercussions from it, is likely to have an impact on the election.
I remain reluctant to discuss the politics. However, I do need to make something clear. Whatever President Trump does or does not do, he will be severely criticized by the mainstream media and the Democrats. Just one case in point. On January 30, the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus to be a "Public Health Emergency." On January 31 Trump barred entry into the US from China. Likely Democratic nominee for President, Joe Biden, called the action "hysterical xenophobia." And Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said it was "an excuse to further his (Trump's) ongoing war against immigrants." Yet, Dr. Anthony Fauci said shutting down air travel from China was likely a big help in curtailing the spread of the coronavirus in the US. So let's hear it for the Democrats who would favor political correctness over the safety and well-being of Americans. Oh wait, they already do that, as with protecting our borders.
In this time of social distancing and isolation, one of our daughters set up a virtual Shabbat on Friday night for our immediate family. We said and sang Shabbat prayers together, ate together and schmoozed for 2 1/2 hours. It was a nice way to catch up and keep in touch while being separated physically.
And, to end on a humorous note...On Thursday night my Rabbi at Chabad gave his weekly sermon online. He could not deliver the sermon on Shabbat (Friday night) because orthodox rabbis will not use electronic devices on Shabbat (with the exception being to save a life, as all the rules are superseded by the need to save a life). We were connected through Zoom. It was easy to log in, and to be able to see and hear the Rabbi. We were also able to hear and see one another. So they asked everyone to mute the sound on their computers so there would not be constant background noise while the Rabbi was speaking. One female congregant failed to mute her sound. During the sermon she could be heard yelling at someone "bullshit!" She provided some much needed laughter in these stressful times.
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