Vice President Mike Pence will be receiving the Covid-19 vaccine publicly on Friday and President-elect Joe Biden is expected to receive the shot as soon as next week.
What We Know:
- As head of the White House coronavirus task force, Pence is hoping to “promote the safety and efficacy of the vaccine and build confidence among the American people,” as stated by the White House in a statement on Wednesday.
- Alongside him, his wife Karen Pence, and Surgeon General Jerome Adams will take place in the event at the White House on Friday.
- Biden told reporters on Wednesday, “I don’t want to get ahead of the line, but I want to make sure we demonstrate to the American people that it is safe to take… When I do it, I’ll do it publicly so you can all witness my getting it done.”
- President Donald Trump, contracted Covid-19 earlier this year but hasn’t mentioned any plans to get the vaccine. Trump tweeted on Sunday as a response to reports that top staffers would receive the shot.
“People working in the White House should receive the vaccine somewhat later in the program, unless specifically necessary… I have asked that this adjustment be made. I am not scheduled to take the vaccine, but look forward to doing so at the appropriate time.”
- The Food and Drug Administration has allowed for the Pfizer vaccine to be used for emergency use this month. In a survey conducted by The Wall Street Journal and NBC News about 70% of registered voters would take the vaccine but would want to wait a while to see if any major problems or side effects that develop. 20% of responders agreed to get the shot as soon as one becomes available.
At the beginning of December, Former Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton agreed to publicly receive the vaccine to promote public confidence.
