Coronavirus Hits The Capitol

Two Congressmen test positive for COVID-19; Senate passes first relief bill aimed at combating the virus and its economic impact. NBC's Chris Pollone reports.

WASHINGTON (NBC News) — The coronavirus pandemic has hit the U.S. capitol.

Florida Representative Mario Diaz Balart and Utah Representative Ben McAdams have both tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.

News of their positive tests came shortly after the Senate passed an economic relief bill that will provide some workers with sick leave and offer free coronavirus testing.

Another stimulus package now in the works will provide bailouts to suffering industries, as well as send checks directly to taxpayers in an effort to boost the economy in April and May.

Democrats and Republicans are still split on how that should be accomplished.

“We’re going to propose workers first, dealing with the buybacks, dealing with corporate salaries, making sure the workers are kept and paid full,” says Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.

As coronavirus tests increase, so too are the number of victims. Some health experts are painting a bleak timeline, saying the virus might not truly subside until a vaccine is released.

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