On Thursday, when Pennsylvania surpassed 10,000 deaths from COVID-19, U.S. Sen. Bob Casey called for action from the people and from the government.
“COVID-19 has reached every corner of our nation and every county in our Commonwealth. Today, I am thinking about the 10,000 Pennsylvanians who have lost their lives to this virus, and all those who loved them,” the senator said in a prepared statement. “We mourn for those we have lost and pray for those still suffering, as well as for their friends and families who are grieving.”
He spoke about the months-long struggles the virus has caused.
“Pennsylvanians, especially our frontline health care workers, have been fighting this relentless pandemic for more than eight months. COVID-19 has now claimed the lives of more than 10,000 Pennsylvanians, and over a quarter of a million Americans,” he said. “We are now seeing the largest wave of cases to date, and I am saddened to know that there will be more deaths in the weeks to come.”
Casey stressed the importance of following the health and safety guidelines that are meant to keep everyone safe.
“It is critical that we all follow the guidance from public health authorities to stay home, wear a mask and avoid gatherings with people outside our families, in order to protect each other and do our part to stop the spread of this vicious virus.”
He called on both political parties to come together to help the nation.
“It is past time for Senate Republicans to work with Democrats, including the incoming Biden Administration, on robust legislation to provide states and the health care system with the resources they need to mitigate the spread of the virus,” Casey said.
“We must work together for the health and safety of the American people to protect frontline workers, implement a national testing strategy, advise people across all states to wear a mask and safeguard the seniors, people with disabilities and workers in nursing homes and other long-term care settings, who are among those put most at risk amid the pandemic.”
Resources are needed by state and local officials to help prepare for vaccine distribution.
“Elected officials owe much more than condolences to the people who entrusted us with public office,” Casey said. “The time to act is long overdue, and we cannot waste another day. We must mitigate the spread of this virus and prevent further senseless tragedy.”
