Speier calls on 2020 candidates to stop holding big public events amid coronavirus fears

Rep. Jackie Speier (D-Calif.) called on presidential candidates to halt all large events until the extent of the community spread of coronavirus is better understood.

“Until we know the extent of the community spread of the coronavirus, I call on ALL candidates for President to stop holding public rallies & large scale events,” Speier tweeted Monday. “The CDC has been absolutely clear, people should not congregate in large groups. The candidates must lead by example!”

Until we know the extent of the community spread of the coronavirus, I call on ALL candidates for President to stop holding public rallies & large scale events. The CDC has been absolutely clear, people should not congregate in large groups. The candidates must lead by example!

— Jackie Speier (@RepSpeier) March 9, 2020

President Trump has said that he sees no reason to discontinue rallies but does not have any scheduled in the immediate future. Both former Vice President Joe Biden and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) have declined to cancel their events thus far but said they would be willing to.

“I think that we’re going to follow the recommendations of the experts … and if they conclude that there shouldn’t be big indoor rallies then we’ll stop big indoor rallies,” Biden said in an NBC interview set to air Monday evening. “We’re going to do whatever they say.”

Sanders said Sunday morning that his campaign was in contact with public health officials wherever he goes, adding, “I love rallies, but your point is well taken. We will not endanger the health of anybody in this country.”