Biden Answers Reporters’ Questions About Omicron Variant: ‘That’s Ridiculous’
The new Omicron variant of the coronavirus that’s spreading throughout parts of southern Africa has concerned public health officials and politicians across the globe. Markets, too, appear spooked by the development, as Friday’s abbreviated trading session saw the Dow, NASDAQ, and S&P 500 all tumble more than 2%.
In response, President Joe Biden has ordered new air travel restrictions on South Africa and seven other countries. The restrictions will go into effect on Monday, and will not apply to U.S. citizens seeking to return home. Biden said in a written statement issued on Friday that “the news about this new variant should make clearer than ever why this pandemic will not end until we have global vaccinations.”
The president is spending the Thanksgiving holiday on Nantucket, where he held a brief gaggle with reporters on Friday afternoon.
“I’ve decided that we’re gonna be cautious [and] make sure there’s no travel to and from South Africa and six [sic] other countries in that region,” said Biden. “We don’t know a lot about the variant except that it is of great concern.”
One reporter asked Biden his response to markets sinking.
“Expected,” he said. “They always do when Covid rises.”
“Does it worry you at all?”
“Not at all,” Biden replied.
Another asked why Biden is waiting until Monday to place the travel restrictions into effect. “Why not an immediate ban?”
“Because that was the recommendation coming from my medical team,” he responded.
Another reporter asked, “What do you say to questions about whether bans create an incentive for countries not to come forward with new variants, that you’re penalized for–”
“That’s ridiculous,” Biden shot back. “Because you can’t hide the variants. It’s not like someone could hide the fact that there’s a new variant.”
The president again reiterated the need for Americans to get vaccinated against Covid-19.
“Here’s the deal,” he said. “Every American who’s not been vaccinated, should be responsible and be vaccinated from age five years and up, number one. Number two, everyone eligible for booster shots should get the booster shot immediately upon being eligible. That is the minimum that everyone should be doing.”
He added, “I think it’s a patriotic responsibility.”
Lastly, a reporter asked Biden if he’s considering any additional mandates related to Covid-19.
“No,” he said. “Not at the moment.”
Watch above via CNN.
