On Friday afternoon, March 20, 2020, Gov. Pritzker took the extraordinary step of issuing a “Stay at Home” order. This type of order, and the COVID-19 virus that prompted the action, is unprecedented in my lifetime. I congratulate the governor for taking this quick and decisive action.
Social distancing is required to flatten the curve and spread over a longer period of time the peak number of Americans who become ill from this life-threatening virus. This will allow our medical community to combat COVID-19 and to better deal with the shortages they are experiencing.
Pritzker took this bold action without regard for any political consequences. We, as good American citizens, need to follow his lead and directive. We need to take this seriously, practice social distancing and not go out unless it is absolutely necessary.
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We hope that none of our family, friends or acquaintances will die from this outbreak. However, the threat is real and we have to do our part. This action is required to save American lives. The time is now to set aside any political differences and to come together as Americans and fight this horrible virus. We can, and will, overcome this with strong leadership, tough decisions and our willingness to comply.
When we get past this crisis, we will be stronger, healthier and better prepared for any future outbreaks. We will remember this as the time we became less concerned with partisan politics and more focused on moving forward, together as Americans.
Thank you, Gov. Pritzker, for your strong leadership!
Matt Swanson, president, Laborers’ Local 32 and DeKalb County Building Trades
What about the renters?
I have been a Chicago renter for the last five years since I moved from Milwaukee, WI. I have not heard anything, or been able to find any information on whether Chicago landlords are allowed to charge rent from people who are unemployed due to the unforeseen circumstances caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
I am very concerned that I will be made homeless in the next few months. My family is all out of state, and I would have nowhere for myself or my pet to go. I have done everything I can to prepare. But the uncertainty of how Illinois and Cook County plan on handling this situation is very difficult and concerning for many citizens.
Aly Riekkoff, Chicago
Stop blaming Trump
Are you going to blame Trump for all the suicides that will be committed as a result of financial ruin related to the virus? I bet you are. Shame on you. Still your President 2020. He’s doing a GREAT job.
Bobby Oganovich, Edgebrook
