Following Grim Milestone of 500,000 American Coronavirus Deaths, Merkley Issues Statement Honoring Lives Lost

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley released the following statement after America passed 500,000 coronavirus deaths:

“It is with heavy hearts that Americans across the country grapple with the reality that over 500,000 of our family members, friends, and community members have died because of this pandemic. Each and every one of them had lives left to live and dreams left to achieve, and they will not be forgotten. To every person who has lost a loved one: I am holding you in my prayers, and hope you find peace and healing during this challenging time.

“Now more than ever, we need to do everything we can to offer one another compassion and look out for each other. That support must include standing strong in our determination to protect our fellow Americans from the spread of infection—from opting for outdoor or virtual socializing, to wearing masks and staying home if you’re feeling under the weather. We’re in this together, and we’re going to get through this together—and I’m going to keep fighting for the resources our communities need to stop this virus.”