On top of Amy Coney’s Barrett’s confirmation hearing, McConnell has made it abundantly clear that the Senate may be called back into session if a deal could be reached with House Democrats on a second COVID-19 relief package. Senators will be given 24-hour notice if McConnell decides to reconvene and hold a vote on the package.
This has drawn criticism from Democrats in Congress, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) saying, “If it’s too dangerous to have the Senate in session, it’s also too dangerous for committee hearings to continue.”
While a handful of senators have opted to quarantine themselves after having contact with the infected individuals, not all senators have decided to do so, or at least it is unknown at this time. A prime example being Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), who reportedly sat in close proximity to Senator Lee earlier this week without wearing a mask. It remains unknown at this time whether Cruz has placed himself under quarantine.
McConnell’s statement follows news that President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania both tested positive for COVID-19. Trump was sent to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Friday to undergo treatment.
