FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 21, 2021

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Health Care Voter Mourns 500,000 Loved Ones Lost to COVID, Calls on Congress to Swiftly Deliver Much-Needed Aid

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As of today, more than half a million people in the U.S. have died from COVID. This devastating milestone is a reminder of how much and how many we’ve lost in a year of the pandemic—and of the need for immediate, large-scale relief from Congress.

Health Care Voter Co-Chair Laura Packard released the following statement:

“Today, the United States surpassed 500,000 lives lost to COVID-19. Half a million mothers, fathers, children, friends, and loved ones are no longer with us because of a deadly pandemic that too many leaders and lawmakers have grossly mismanaged. For most of the last year, congressional Republicans and former President Trump refused to help the American people, choosing to instead peddle lies and stall relief.

COVID deaths are not just a number. Every single person lost has a story, a family, a life, and a legacy, including my stepfather. For each person lost to this devastating year, may we remember them, honor them, and tell their story.

This mounting death toll is a dire rallying cry for swift action from our leaders. Congress must pass President Biden’s COVID relief package now, including provisions to expand and protect health care for millions. The American people have suffered too much—we cannot let any more lives be lost due to inaction.”