2020 Oval Office address

A confluence of events made March 11 a significant day in the progression of Covid-19 in the United States: United States President Donald Trump initially reacted mildly to the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to minimize public panic.

Vice President Mike Pence, who chaired the White House Coronavirus Task Force, urged Trump to deliver a more serious public statement about the pandemic.

Eventually a speech was drafted for Trump with the assistance of Stephen Miller, his chief speechwriter, and Jared Kushner, his son-in-law.

[20] Trump also drew criticism for perceived racist and nativist themes present within his speech.

[21] Several commentators and analysts, albeit almost exclusively those strongly affiliated with the right-wing, viewed the speech in a more positive manner.

Footage of Trump's speech