To the editor:

Dear Congresswoman Stefanik:

Your recent call to “open the economy” of the North Country before New York City and the rest of the country is reckless and frankly ignorant. Epidemiologic models show that the COVID-19 virus spreads from urban population centers to the suburbs and ultimately rural areas. Peak levels of infection for the North Country are not expected for some weeks.

Returning to “normal” will have severe consequences. The economic and social disruptions we face are a concern, but they can’t eclipse the need for rigorous public health measures. The potential of severe illness and death is not theoretical. Low-income individuals, the elderly, chronically ill and those living and working in close proximity in locations like retirement centers, nursing homes and prisons are particularly at risk. We need widespread testing availability before we can safely restart the economy.

Constituents of the 21st District rightfully expect that our true representative will, without prejudice:

¯ Work toward assuring that supplies and equipment needed to prevent and treat COVID-19 are available in adequate supply in the North Country.

¯ Work to assure adequate support for the needed public health infrastructure.

¯ Work for the expansion of the Payroll Protection Plan so there are adequate funds available to help the small businesses and workers here in the North Country.

¯ Work for real health care reform so all your constituents have affordable and accessible quality health care.

Where is your voice for issues that meet the ongoing and long-term needs of the North Country: education, clean air and water, transportation, housing, prison reform and real job development? It is a travesty that far too many of those we designate as essential workers are underpaid, often without real health benefits, lack of paid sick time, and struggling to move up the economic ladder.

I ask you to act wisely and without delay as OUR representative. It is not a theoretical position that gives you a seat in a debate society. You are called upon to serve US, your constituents, and not use your position for self-interested political gain.

Charles VanAnden

Saranac Lake