TOPLINEThe Trump administration plans to end the deployments of more than 40,000 national guard members helping states combat coronavirus a day before thousands would become eligible for federal benefits, Politico reported Tuesday, drawing immediate criticism from Democrats. Texas National Guard wait for people people to drive up for Covid-19 tests in the parking lot of ... [+] Memorial Swimming Pool on May 18, 2020 in El Paso, Texas. A National Guard spokesperson told Politico that a decision to extend the deployment could still be made in the next few weeks. The administration’s plan comes as lawmakers debate how much the federal government should be supporting essential workers and first responders. 1,158 national guard members have tested positive for coronavirus, with 617 active cases, according to Politico.

Source: Forbes May 19, 2020 20:15 UTC