Washington, DC — U.S. Representative Charlie Crist (D-St. Petersburg) released the following statement as Pinellas County and the State of Florida grapple with the outbreak of the novel coronavirus.

“These are challenging times, but I want Floridians to know that we will prevail and rise from this crisis both stronger and wiser. We live in the greatest country on Earth, in the history of mankind. The smartest people around the world are working on vaccines and treatments for the coronavirus. The federal government will provide as much resources as it takes to get the job done. And our people are generous and caring, inherently wired by our common values to rally together in times of need for the common good.

“I ask that all Floridians take prudent precautions during this time, as we work to get a fuller grasp of the issues we confront. Peoples’ safety, their health and well-being, is of the utmost importance. Please follow CDC guidelines, limit interactions with people outside of your home as much as possible, get exercise daily, be proactive about your physical and mental health, and let our office know if we can be of assistance. God bless you all, we will get through this together!”