Williams: “The problem is two weeks ago [Young] downplayed the crisis at a Senior Center, calling this highly contagious disease a ‘beer virus’, whatever that means. He then told the seniors in the room that Alaska should, ‘go forth with our everyday activities.’ The realities of this crisis are now grim.’”
This weekend, Brian Williams of MSNBC’s The 11th Hour reported on Alaska GOP Congressman Don Young’s “huge turnaround” and complete 180-degree walk back of his comments two weeks ago where Young downplayed the severity of Coronavirus to a group of Alaska’s seniors, calling it the ‘beer virus’ and describing it as overblown due to media-fueled hysteria.
Like President Trump, Young’s denial of the severity and impact of this crisis is deadly. Currently, Alaska has 114 total number of positive cases including the loss of 3 Alaskans due to Coronavirus.
Young marks the first of many Republicans who will have to walk back their misinformation during this national crisis. A full reporting from The 11th Hour, can be viewed HERE.
Statement from DCCC Press Secretary, Andy Orellana:
“After two weeks, Congressman Don Young has finally faced the facts on the seriousness of the public health crisis we confront as a nation. Unfortunately, it is too little, too late for many of Alaska’s families and seniors who have already begun to feel the daily impact of this pandemic. Don Young’s statements diminish the crisis we face, and his actions have not only put Alaskan lives at risk but disqualified Young from being a voice of authority during this crisis. Alaskans truly deserve better leadership at a time like this.”
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