Newhouse Reacts to Phase 2 Reopening, Thanks Local Leaders

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement in response to Governor Inslee's announcement that the South Central region would move into Phase 2 of reopening:

"The local leaders of the South Central region should be proud of their work to ensure we secured this small step to move forward, but we cannot overlook the inadequacy of the Governor's plan. His flawed metrics and lack of a clear plan for moving past Phase 2 do not provide the clear, unambiguous information our communities and businesses need during these difficult times, especially if a small miscalculation can so severely affect the lives of thousands of us in Central Washington. What is Phase 3? Phase 4? The people of our state deserve answers," said Rep. Newhouse.

"As demonstrated by this situation, it is the local health officials and elected leaders on the ground who are best equipped to manage the ongoing response to the pandemic – not the Governor," he continued. "I will continue to support the efforts of our local health districts, chambers of commerce, county commissioners, and community leaders who are doing everything in their power to ensure our neighbors' lives and livelihoods are not further harmed – by the pandemic or by the Governor's misguided, unscientific, and out-of-touch response."

Background:

On Friday, February 12, the Washington State Department of Health received updated data from Walla Walla County noting a 36% decrease in hospitalizations in the county, a rate previously misreported which prevented the South Central region from progressing forward under Governor Inslee's "Healthy Washington" plan. Rep. Newhouse released a statement in response to Governor Inslee's announcement that the South Central region would be the only region in the state staying in Phase 1.

On Saturday, February 13, the Washington Department of Health received updated data from local county health boards reflecting the South Central region's qualifications to move to Phase 2. Rep. Newhouse released a statement demanding Governor Inslee review and update the region's eligibility to move into Phase 2.