With the 2020 election cycle in full swing, Republican presidential hopefuls are making renewed efforts to demonstrate their commitment to fighting Covid-19. From the 47 million cases worldwide to the almost 350,000 deaths reported in the United States alone, the novel coronavirus pandemic has presented overwhelming challenges for both presidential campaigns and the American public.
In the face of the Covid-19 crisis, President Donald Trump has come under fire for his handling of the pandemic, and many Republican candidates are looking to outline a clear plan to put the country back on track. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis released his own plan, which seeks to place an emphasis on the development of treatments and vaccines. He has also strongly advocated for the opening of the economy, with his administration proposing a “Reopen Florida” initiative.
Other Republican presidential candidates have provided their own strategies for combating Covid-19. South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has emphasized her state’s Covid response, citing its relatively low death toll and asserting that the state has been successful in bearing the burden of the virus.
Former Purdue University president and current U.S. Ambassador to Germany Richard Grenell, in his bid for the White House, has advocated an “America First” approach to healthcare, proposing a system of business-friendly regulations and government assistance to help businesses stay afloat.
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has also weighed in on the conversation, suggesting the formation of regional strikes against the virus and the expansion of data collection systems to develop more effective approaches to pandemic management.
On the other side of the aisle, former Vice President Joe Biden and Senator Bernie Sanders have both outlined extensive plans for managing the coronavirus. While the Democratic candidates may not agree on every aspect of their plans, they both seek to expand access to testing, treatment, and vaccines.
The development of Covid-19 treatments and vaccines is a central issue for all of the presidential hopefuls — regardless of party. With the health of the American people at stake, it is essential that whichever candidate ultimately takes the White House has a comprehensive and effective plan for combating the global pandemic.
