Democratic National Committee (DNC) chairman Tom Perez is shutting down any questions about a possible cancellation of the upcoming Democratic convention.
Due to the coronavirus outbreak, many major companies and organizations have opted to take a precautionary stance and cancel big events that would draw large gatherings.
Citing the same concern, Perez was approached about the idea of canceling the Democratic National Convention, which is scheduled to take place in July in Milwaukee, Wis. He flatly denied that possibility, “No.”
When asked if the DNC would consider transitioning the convention into an online convention, Perez also shut down that option highlighting why that wouldn’t be the best alternative.
“We’d have to change the rules,” he replied. “We’re not contemplating rule changes.”
Perez noted he has been monitoring the situation closely and keeping close contact with local and state authorities.
“We are working with our state and local partners, and I’m confident that we work a plan that will enable us to have our convention,” he said.
Perez also expressed confidence “in the competence of our team” as they work to ensure the conference is a success.
Check out Perez’ comments:
The latest news follows up-to-the-minute reports about the coronavirus outbreak. Over the last few weeks, there has been a surge in reported coronavirus cases in the United States.
President Donald Trump, his administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP) have also faced criticism due to limited testing which makes it far more difficult to report definitive statistics.
On Wednesday night following Trump’s address, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo criticized the president and his counter-coronavirus efforts, as reported on IJR.
“It is because we have no testing capacity,” Cuomo said. “That is why the numbers are low. If you actually had testing capacity, you would see how high the numbers are already.”
Despite heightened criticism, Trump insists the outbreak is being handled accordingly.
“The virus will not have a chance against us,” he said. “No nation is more prepared or more resilient than the United States.”