THIS TIME IS DIFFERENT: Coronavirus and the Absence of Bipartisanship

In the early days of a crisis, presidents typically strive for bipartisanship, and people in the opposing party typically respond in kind.  Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle (D-SD) hugged President Bush after his 9/11 address to Congress.

This.
Time.
Is.
Different.


The President:

Will someone please explain to the Fake News New York Times (ALL THE NEWS THAT’S NOT FIT TO PRINT) that the Democrats make it almost impossible for us to fill positions within government. They “maximum” delay even the best candidates, including Judges, leaving little time!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 27, 2020

The Fake News Media and their partner, the Democrat Party, is doing everything within its semi-considerable power (it used to be greater!) to inflame the CoronaVirus situation, far beyond what the facts would warrant. Surgeon General, “The risk is low to the average American.”

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 9, 2020

The Speaker:

Question: "Are you saying that [Trump's] downplaying ultimately cost American lives?"

Speaker Pelosi: "Yes I am, I'm saying that." pic.twitter.com/VzSbmc0UtF

— The Hill (@thehill) March 29, 2020

The presumptive Democratic nominee:

Donald Trump’s ego will cost lives. pic.twitter.com/JNcGny13KO

— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) March 28, 2020

In times of crisis, American presidents have always stepped up to meet the moment. But all we've gotten from Donald Trump are lies, excuses, and scapegoats.

Trump has failed our country at a time when we need him most. pic.twitter.com/d2vxUHGiH0

— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) March 26, 2020