On the recordJanuary 31, 2023
This is another moment that I am on the floor of the House, and I thank the ranking member of the Committee on Energy and Commerce who has been so dutiful throughout the years that we suffered, somewhat lonely and somewhat confused, about COVID-19. We never experienced this trauma. It certainly brings me to a deep sense of loss to hear a Member speak about the loss of his mother. These are personal matters for many of us, some having lost dear friends, but nothing can equate to losing a beloved loved one. So when we stand on the floor, we speak with a sense of compassion and concern. I think it is certainly fine for there to be individual--I turn the card. I flip the coin--individual examples of individuals seeking not to be vaccinated. They can find medical facilities that would allow them to work there. It is no doubt that the actions of the Biden administration saved lives. There is no doubt that, on our side of this issue, 50 healthcare organizations, professional societies, and others, believe that vaccinations helped healthcare workers save their own lives and save the lives of others. It is well-known that prior to the widespread availability of the COVID-19 vaccine, healthcare workers in the United States were more than three times more likely to die. I have seen it myself.…
