Washington — 

U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today discussed the coronavirus outbreak in the United States and his hope for a bipartisan congressional response.

Click here to watch Thune’s speech.

Thune’s remarks below (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, last week, Congress provided billions in funding to address the coronavirus outbreak.

“These funds will support virus research, testing, and medical care.

“Congress is now looking at other measures that may be required, including measures to address the economic impact of the virus.

“The House may consider an economic response measure today, but my understanding is that its bill doesn’t currently reflect an agreement with the White House, which will be needed to move any stimulus package.

“I want to echo the leader’s comments from yesterday and say that this is not a time for partisanship, and that it is very important that we work together on matters related to the coronavirus so that we can get needed legislation passed in a timely fashion.

“More Americans are testing positive for the virus each day – including eight people in my home state of South Dakota – and it is our responsibility as members of Congress to work together to ensure that our country has the resources it needs to combat and defeat this disease.

“Mr. President, there’s no doubt that things are stressful right now.

“Americans are understandably worried about their own health, and the health of their loved ones.

“But we have a lot of dedicated people working to keep Americans safe, from nurses and doctors to public health officials.

“Everyone is focused on making sure we do what we need to do to limit the spread of this virus.

“And all of us, of course, can help in that effort by paying attention to the guidance we’re given – whether it’s advice about washing our hands or avoiding large gatherings, or a request to stay home for a while.

“Mr. President, it’s a challenging time, but America has been through challenging times before, and emerged from them stronger.

“And I am confident that if we pull together, that’s what will happen again.”