Democratic Lawmakers Question Gov. Lee’s COVID-19 Response Over Concerns of Focus, Transparency and Effectiveness

NASHVILLE — State Democratic lawmakers are questioning Gov. Bill Lee’s response the COVID-19 outbreak in Tennessee.

In a letter sent to Gov. Bill Lee on March 25, Democratic members of the House and Senate raised concerns that the administration’s efforts to curtail the spread of the coronavirus were falling behind other states and leaving Tennesseans vulnerable.

On Wednesday, the state health department reported over 700 COVID-19 cases. The next day, News Channel 5 reported 1,098 cases statewide.

“Presently, many Tennesseans lack a clear understanding of your Administration’s plan to bring this crisis under control,” the letter says. “While we appreciate many of the steps that have been announced this week, it is unclear how these steps constitute a coherent, comprehensive strategy to contain the pandemic.”

Democrats sent a list of issues and recommendations for the governor to address, including:
• Urgent need for a statewide stay-at-home order;
• Plan to ensure a continous supply of personal protective equipment;
• Statewide ventilator resource assessment;
• Expanded access to testing;
• Temporary shelter for vulnerable patients;
• More medical providers;
• Support for those out of work, homebound; and
• Comprehensive, public plan to eliminate COVID-19.

The letter in its entirety is included below: