19 panel isn’t exactly covering itself in glory

On September 10, Congress reconvened to address the ongoing issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing particularly on the decisions made by former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo regarding nursing homes. During the hearing, Cuomo faced intense scrutiny from both Democrats and Republicans about his directive to send over 9,000 potentially COVID-19-positive patients back into nursing homes in March 2020. Family members of victims were present, expressing their grief and anger over the decisions that led to numerous deaths in these facilities. Cuomo's confrontational demeanor during the hearing drew criticism, as he attempted to deflect questions regarding his administration's handling of the pandemic. The atmosphere of the hearing resembled a courtroom drama rather than a serious legislative inquiry, with committee members making pointed remarks about Cuomo's political future. Representative Wenstrup's comments, which received applause from the audience, highlighted the contentious nature of the proceedings. Despite the ongoing impact of COVID-19, the hearing revealed a broader trend of the pandemic fading from public consciousness. The subcommittee's approach to the issue seemed more focused on political theater than on constructive governance, contrasting sharply with other congressional committees that tackle serious bipartisan issues. Ultimately, the hearing served as a reminder of the pandemic's toll and the political ramifications of leadership decisions made during its early days. As the nation moves forward, the lessons learned from this period remain crucial for future public health responses.