Underwood understands federal role in pandemic

The challenges brought forth by the COVID-19 pandemic and the erratic, piecemeal responses to these challenges raise the question: What is the proper role/responsibility of the federal government in such a crisis?

Most of a society's needed services can be addressed at state or local levels. Other situations, however, require resources and planning beyond their capabilities. Some of these situations, e.g. national defense, are obvious, others less so. The complex factors underlying processes that can develop into a COVID-19 pandemic include variables in biology, virology, immunology, biochemistry, genomics, and epidemiology.

Most state governments simply do not have the resources to undertake such complicated challenges. Hence, the need for a federal government that can marshal resources and implement strategies effective against such crises. But to do this requires a government composed of elected officials who recognize and accept such duties as legitimate governmental functions and responsibilities.

In Illinois, U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood is very clear on these responsibilities. As a health care professional, she has the experience, knowledge and perspective to ensure an improved ability to deal with the continuing issues of COVID-19 and future such challenges.

Lori Moss

Gurnee