DNC Chair Jaime Harrison released the following statement after the United States reached 500,000 COVID-19 deaths:

“It is a dark and sorrowful day in America. The COVID-19 pandemic has now claimed the lives of more than 500,000 of our fellow Americans. Our hearts are with every family touched by heartbreak and grief. This is a moment that demands leadership. That’s why Congress should pass President Biden’s American Rescue Plan immediately to give communities the support they deserve, and to help our nation build back better. Every day we wait, more Americans die, more families are shattered, more workers lose their jobs, and more businesses are forced to close their doors for good. We need action. Now.”