Senate Democrats on Sunday criticized Vice President Mike Pence for insisting on being in charge of the chamber when a vote on Amy Coney Barrett's confirmation to the Supreme Court is passed. His decision to preside over Amy Coney Barrett's vote comes when some of his top aides have contracted COVID-19.
On Sunday evening, Pence's Chief of Staff, Marc Short, tested positive for the coronavirus. The New York Times and CNN reported that four other people, aside from Short, in Pence's orbit have tested positive for the deadly virus, meaning at least five of his top aides had contracted the disease.
Pence, who preside over the White House's coronavirus task force and hasn't since tested positive for the coronavirus, had decided to take charge of the Senate floor Monday when the chamber is slated to vote on Barrett's confirmation to the Supreme Court. Barrett's confirmation comes just days before the presidential election and amid strong criticism from the Democrat.
Pence is the president of the Senate and can cast votes, usually done in a tie. The vice president and Barrett hold strong Indiana ties as Barrett lives and works there as the University of Notre Dame professor, while Pence has served as the state's governor. Pence was addressing supporters at a rally when the news broke of the virus infection over the weekend, and he pointed out that since he is president of the Senate, he will make sure he is in the chair and will not miss the opportunity to vote.
He went on to predict the supporters, claiming Judge Amy Coney Barrett will be Justice Amy Coney Barrett this Monday, adding that they will fill that seat. While there is no confirmation about whether or not Pence has changed the plan due to his aides testing positive for COVID-19, but the vice president doesn't seem to be restricting his travel or movements.
Pence is slated to make appearances in North Carolina on Sunday and has an event scheduled on Tuesday. As expected, this sparked harsh criticism from Democrats, but Republicans ignored Pence's visit to Capitol Hill, claiming that they are sure the veep will do the rally responsibly.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized Pence's plans, saying that the visit would jeopardize everyone's safety who works in the building. Schumer suggested that the vice president should follow CDC guidelines and quarantine.