As Vaccinations Begin, U.S. Coronavirus Deaths Reach 300,000, Clyburn Calls for Action to Save Lives and Livelihoods

Washington, D.C. (December 14, 2020) – Rep. James E. Clyburn, Chairman of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis, released the following statement today as Americans began to receive the coronavirus vaccine and the number of Americans killed by the virus reached 300,000:

"Today our nation observes two milestones in the coronavirus crisis. I enthusiastically applaud the relentless efforts of scientists and public servants that have enabled the first doses of an FDA-approved coronavirus vaccine to be administered to Americans. Tragically, however, we cannot bring back the 300,000 Americans we have now lost to this deadly virus. I extend my deepest condolences to their families, friends, and communities.

"It is now incumbent upon us to do all we can to prevent the death toll from rising further. We must ensure that vaccines are distributed effectively, efficiently, and equitably to stop the spread of the virus in every community—especially those that have been hit the hardest. In the months that will be required to vaccinate all Americans—which will span two administrations—public officials must use all tools at their disposal to promote mask-wearing, social distancing, testing, contact tracing, and other science-based public health measures. All Americans must act responsibly to protect themselves and their fellow citizens.

"Millions of American businesses and workers will not be able to safely resume normal economic activity until sufficient vaccinations are administered to bring the pandemic to an end. Without further assistance from Congress, more businesses will close, more families will face hunger and homelessness, and more essential public services will be eliminated. Congress must act to avoid all of these foreseeable hardships.

"While the beginning of the vaccination effort is a time for hope, it cannot be a time for complacency. Hundreds of thousands of American lives and millions of American livelihoods depend on our actions in the coming weeks and months. In memory of the 300,000 Americans we have lost, our nation must come together to prevent further harm and enable a strong recovery."

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