I want to ponder Campaign 2020 and why I think it will actually be an unsettling election with a healthy dose of “boy who cried wolf,” but before I get there I want a few thoughts on the coronavirus. First, I think the media has an obligation to keep us informed. This is a new virus. It is more deadly than the flu but less deadly than many other diseases. It overwhelmingly affects the elderly and most people will have mild symptoms. Unfortunately, we are in the phase where the contrarians and the conventional wisdom pontificators are now screaming at each other.
Actually, I'm worried about the economy. The jobs gain was heavy on service sector, gig stuff, and health care. Health workers will be desperately needed, but retail and restaurants are going to suffer. Maybe I should consider a job with UPS; they should be in good shape. Some store somewhere still has toilet paper and I'm sure they'll ship. (Actually our local grocery has plenty. Hand sanitizer too!)
Traditionally, don't presidents have trouble getting re-elected in a recession? What do you think would fix the slide before November?
My county just got its first confirmed coronavirus case. We care for a family member with a compromised immune system, so this too is scary, and the confusion emanating from Washington (not to mention the pre-existing distrust of government) is not helping. As you say, this is affecting everyone, no matter our party. If the Democrats are smart, they'll use coronavirus to push the public option, at the very least. (Still think Medicare for All is a nonstarter, but what do I know.)
Actually, I'm worried about the economy. The jobs gain was heavy on service sector, gig stuff, and health care. Health workers will be desperately needed, but retail and restaurants are going to suffer. Maybe I should consider a job with UPS; they should be in good shape. Some store somewhere still has toilet paper and I'm sure they'll ship. (Actually our local grocery has plenty. Hand sanitizer too!)
Traditionally, don't presidents have trouble getting re-elected in a recession? What do you think would fix the slide before November?
My county just got its first confirmed coronavirus case. We care for a family member with a compromised immune system, so this too is scary, and the confusion emanating from Washington (not to mention the pre-existing distrust of government) is not helping. As you say, this is affecting everyone, no matter our party. If the Democrats are smart, they'll use coronavirus to push the public option, at the very least. (Still think Medicare for All is a nonstarter, but what do I know.)
Anyway, thank you for another thoughtful post.