CEDARVILLE, Ohio — Gov. Mike DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted held a coronavirus briefing on Thursday afternoon, although much of the news conference was focused on a topic that had little to do with the ongoing pandemic.
DeWine started his remarks with thoughts on the violence that took place at the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday by supporters of President Trump.
"Last night, as I'm sure most Americans were doing, Fran and I were focused on our TV screen watching the images of the Capitol, really in disbelief and in shock," the governor stated. "In spite of the violent attempts to stop our democratic process- to stop an election- what happened last night when our vice president and Congress returned to the Capitol was a sign of great strength, and unity, and hope."
In response to those calling for the removal President Trump with the 25th Amendment, DeWine said he is not in favor.
"I would simply say that we're down to 13 days until the new president takes office at noon on January 20th. Invoking the 25th Amendment is something that we would not want to see happen. I believe it would stoke the fires of people who believe it (the presidential election) was a conspiracy and would lessen faith in our system," DeWine said.
"It would cause more division than healing."
PHASE 1B VACCINATION ROLLOUT PLAN
DeWine unveiled his timeline for the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine to those people in Phase 1B. The plan is to offer the vaccine in a step-like pattern, offering it to those 75 and older beginning on January 25, 70 years and older February 1, and so on.
"On Jan 25th, we anticipate vaccinations will open up to those 75 years old and older. The following week it will open to people 70 and older, and the February 8th, the vaccinations will be available to those 65 and older," the Governor wrote on Twitter.
DeWine also announced that they hope to make the coronavirus vaccine readily available to Ohioans with congenital diseases and pre-existing conditions on January 25. DeWine did not immediately note how that would work, but that he would address this process next week.
In February, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) also plans to vaccinate Ohioans who work in schools as an effort to get children back in classrooms by March.
Watch DeWine's briefing in the player below:
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