Greenberg Responds to Ebola Crisis

Statement

On Sunday, Reuters reported that a Massachusetts man who recently returned from Liberia was transported to a Boston hospital after showing symptoms of the Ebola virus. I am very concerned by this news, especially given the recent and tragic death of Thomas Eric Duncan, the first American diagnosed with Ebola.

As I watch this crisis unfold, I believe it is imperative our government takes serious steps to stop the spread of the virus in the United States. Unfortunately, the current efforts to screen travelers from West Africa are failing: the CDC is still not screening passengers from Ebola-stricken nations at major airports in Boston, Philadelphia and Dallas. This leaves our nation at risk.

Recently 27 members of Congress, including several Democrats, wrote a letter to President Obama asking him to issue a temporary ban on travel from the West African nations battling the epidemic. I support this bipartisan proposal, and as your congressman I would ask the president to do the same.

Additionally, Homeland Security Chairman Michael McCaul (R-TX)recommended a temporary suspension of travel visas originating from the infected countries. Considering the gravity of this epidemic and the risk of infection in our towns and cities, this proposal deserves serious consideration.

I am disappointed, though, that my opponent has not taken steps to respond to the crisis. Her inaction on this priority issue proves she lacks the fortitude to handle the top concerns of her constituents. I call on Congresswoman Esty to demand that the president issue a temporary ban on travel from the affected nations in West Africa.

As the lawmakers noted, 27 African nations have already imposed travel bans from the affected region. It makes little sense for the United States to delay doing the same. The American people are behind this request as well: 58 percent of Americans supported the proposal in a recent NBC News survey, with only 20 percent opposed.

The Obama administration tells us we are safe and they are "stopping this in its tracks." They have done little, though, to reassure the American people recently. Protocols are being broken despite promises they "work," and groups like ISIS are being dismissed as "jayvee team[s]." We need Congress to take the lead in demanding a stronger response from our government.

As the crisis continues to develop, I pledge to monitor the developments and to continue speaking out for the people of the 5th District. In times like these, it is essential we put their needs and concerns first.

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