[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 213 (Wednesday, December 16, 2020)]
[House]
[Page H7162]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          BRIGHTER DAYS AHEAD

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
Pennsylvania (Mr. Joyce) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, this week, Americans 
witnessed a remarkable achievement. Less than a year after the novel 
coronavirus reached the shores of America, the first doses of a safe 
and effective vaccine were administered to frontline healthcare workers 
in Pennsylvania and around the country.
  This amazing accomplishment is not only a testament to America's 
unparalleled healthcare heroes, researchers and scientists, but it is 
also a testament to the promise of American innovation.
  In just a matter of months, Operation Warp Speed has harnessed the 
full power of the Federal Government, the private sector, and the 
scientific community to deliver results for the American people, all in 
record time.
  I am sincerely grateful to the leaders at the helm of this historic 
public/private partnership, including President Donald Trump and 
Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar, who was born in my 
district, in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. Truly, all of those who have 
served in Operation Warp Speed have done an incredible job.
  As our Nation continues to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, we recognize 
that a safe and effective vaccine is key to restoring our communities, 
rebuilding our economy and, ultimately, saving lives. While the first 
COVID-19 vaccine developed by Pfizer already has been granted emergency 
authorization from the FDA, we expect more to follow in the coming days 
and weeks.
  Now, it is imperative for the American people to know the facts about 
these vaccines so that they can make informed consent.
  Number one: As part of Operation Warp Speed, multiple COVID-19 
vaccines are being developed by private companies and simultaneously 
produced, accelerating the typical production process so that, as soon 
as a safe and effective option is cleared, it is ready to go.
  Number two: Each COVID-19 vaccine is undergoing the same rigorous 
safety, quality, and efficacy screenings as any other modern vaccine.
  Number three: The FDA will only grant emergency use authorization to 
a vaccine following the recommendation of an independent advisory 
board.
  Number four: The American people can be confident in the safety and 
the efficacy of a COVID-19 vaccine.
  Madam Speaker, like many Americans, I recognize that this vaccine has 
lifesaving potential, and I plan to take the vaccine as soon as I am 
eligible.
  As part of Operation Warp Speed, our Nation is equipped to facilitate 
this vaccine distribution more efficiently than any other country in 
the world. At the same time, we know that it will take time before 
everyone can receive it.
  As we wait, this is not the time to grow complacent. COVID-19 cases 
are rising in Pennsylvania and around the country, and it is up to all 
of us to do our part to protect our family, our friends, and our 
neighbors.
  This year, I have been amazed by Americans' commitment to one another 
and to their communities. Together, we can defeat this virus. As we 
wait for the widespread immunization, we must continue to stand strong 
against this invisible enemy.
  Yes, the coronavirus remains an ever-present threat to America and to 
our economy. Yes, we are in a shared fight to save lives and to save 
livelihoods. And, yes, there is hope on the horizon. It is arriving in 
communities every day in the coolers on UPS and FedEx trucks.
  As we near the end of this incredibly challenging year, Americans 
have much to be grateful for. Thanks to our scientific community, to 
Operation Warp Speed, and especially to our healthcare heroes, there 
are brighter days ahead.

                          ____________________