President Trump held a call with governors on Monday about the response to the coronavirus, discussing work on a vaccine, the impact on the economy and more.
concerns about shortages of coronavirus testing equipment in states across the nation, claiming he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" despite loud warnings from local officials and near-constant reporting on the issue by media outlets. That was the response from the President of the United States on a phone call with a group of state governors on Monday, after one of them—Steve Bullock of Montana—went through how difficult it has been for his state to get ahold of the number of COVID-19 tests they'd need to do "contact tracing." As a new COVID-19 test kit developed by Abbott Labs is placed on a table, President Donald Trump speaks during the daily coronavirus briefing at the Rose Garden of the White House on March 30, 2020 in Washington, D.C. (Photo:  Win McNamee/Getty Images) In a conference call with governors on Monday, President  concerns about shortages of coronavirus testing equipment in states across the nation, claiming he "hasn't heard about testing being a | “Great to hear!” Despite Trump’s defense of his administration in distributing more medical equipment to the 50 states as needed, the effort has been chaotic. By In a recording shared with The New York Times, President Trump suggested to governors that they should not wait for the federal government to supply hospitals with equipment for coronavirus treatments. President Donald Trump told governors during a conference call earlier in the day that they shouldn't wait for the federal government to provide them with medical equipment like respirators if they can source them on their own, which surprised some governors, The New York Times reported. With the U.S. death toll topping 5,100, Trump defended the national government’s response to the crisis, saying on Twitter, “Massive amounts of medical supplies, even hospitals and medical centers, are being delivered directly to states and hospitals.” But he said some governors “have insatiable appetites & are never satisfied (politics?). new | describing a Gallup conducted in early-to-mid-February – before there were any reported US deaths from the coronavirus – that found 77% of respondents had confidence in the federal government to handle a coronavirus outbreak. “I heard it was, like, just a perfect phone call.” The self-regard, the credit-taking, the audacious rewriting of recent history to cast himself as the hero of the pandemic rather than the president who was slow to respond: Such have been the defining features of Mr. Trump’s use of the bully pulpit during the coronavirus outbreak. Trump tweeted the next day, "but we'll have to live with it!" Trump: Well, . Later that day, Trump, while at a news conference, was informed of the incident. | during his State of the Union address, but only in passing, taking 20 seconds out of his 78-minute speech. He said it’s “entirely conceivable” that more than a million people in the US could contract coronavirus, but added that mitigation and extending the distancing guidelines through April will hopefully curb those numbers. On February 26, speaking of the number of known infected in the country at the time, Trump predicted "the 15 within a couple of days is going to be down to close to zero—that's a pretty good job we've done." That day, , head of the CDC's , said that "We are asking the American public to work with us to prepare for the expectation that this is going to be bad." President Donald Trump's announcement Monday that he would resurrect the White House coronavirus task force briefings is the culmination of weeks of debate among his aides about how best to turn around — or explain away — his administration's failed response to the pandemic. Trump also predicted that many | and has been pushing the CDC to make sure Montana has capacity. " Bullock also warned "we're going to have some real problems" across smaller rural states if they cannot soon obtain the necessary testing equipment. President Trump told governors on a conference call on Monday that he had not “heard about testing in weeks,” suggesting that a chronic lack of kits to screen people for the coronavirus was no longer a problem. Watch: In a conference call with governors on Monday, President  concerns about shortages of coronavirus testing equipment in states across the nation, claiming he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" despite loud warnings from local officials and near-constant reporting on the issue by media outlets. Watch: In a conference call with governors on Monday, President  concerns about shortages of coronavirus testing equipment in states across the nation, claiming he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" despite loud warnings from local officials and | In a conference call with governors on Monday, President  concerns about shortages of coronavirus testing equipment in states across the nation, claiming he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" despite loud warnings from local officials and near-constant reporting on the issue by media outlets. "We are trying to do contact tracing, but literally we are one day away if we don't get test kits from the CDC, that we wouldn't be able to do testing in Montana," Bullock said in a recording of the call provided to national media outlets including and the . "I haven't heard about testing in weeks," the president said, according to leaked audio of the call obtained by . "I haven't heard about testing in weeks," the president said, according to leaked audio of the call obtained by . "I haven't heard about testing in weeks," the president said, according to leaked audio of the call obtained by .
President Trump held a call with governors on Monday about the response to the coronavirus, discussing work on a vaccine, the impact on the economy and more.
new video loaded:Trump’s Call With Governors on the Coronavirus
Trump’s Call With Governors on the Coronavirus
President Trump held a call with governors on Monday about the response to the coronavirus, discussing work on a vaccine, the impact on the economy and more.
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Title: President Trump's Misrepresentation of Coronavirus Testing Efforts Raises Concerns among Governors

In a conference call with governors on Monday, President Donald Trump downplayed the ongoing struggles states are facing in obtaining adequate testing equipment for the coronavirus. Despite loud warnings from local officials and near-constant reporting on the issue by media outlets, President Trump claimed to have not "heard about testing being a problem" for weeks.

Governor Steve Bullock of Montana expressed his concerns during the call, highlighting the difficulties his state has faced in acquiring the necessary tests for contact tracing. "We are trying to do contact tracing, but literally we are one day away if we don't get test kits from the CDC, that we wouldn't be able to do testing in Montana," Bullock said in a recording of the call obtained by various media outlets.

The president's dismissive remarks about testing availability contrast with the reality on the ground. Across the nation, states are facing shortages of testing equipment, leading to delays in identifying and isolating infected individuals, and slowing efforts to curb the spread of the virus.

The new COVID-19 test kit developed by Abbott Labs, which provides results in as little as five minutes, has been a welcome addition to the testing arsenal. However, the limited supply of these kits, coupled with ongoing challenges in procuring other testing materials, has left many states scrambling to meet the demand for testing.

In addition to the testing shortages, governors have expressed concerns about the chaotic nature of the federal government's efforts to distribute medical equipment to the 50 states. Despite President Trump's claims of delivering massive amounts of medical supplies to hospitals and medical centers, some governors have been left without the necessary resources to treat patients and protect healthcare workers.

The president's self-regard, credit-taking, and rewriting of recent history to cast himself as the hero of the pandemic, rather than the president who was slow to respond, has been a defining feature of his use of the bully pulpit during the coronavirus outbreak.

It is crucial for the president to acknowledge the challenges states are facing and work collaboratively with governors to address the shortages in testing equipment and medical supplies. Only through a unified and transparent approach can the nation hope to effectively combat the coronavirus pandemic and protect the health and well-being of all Americans.
Title: President Trump's Misrepresentation of Coronavirus Testing Efforts Raises Concerns among Governors

In a conference call with governors on Monday, President Donald Trump downplayed concerns about shortages of coronavirus testing equipment in states across the nation, claiming that he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" despite loud warnings from local officials and near-constant reporting on the issue by media outlets.

Governor Steve Bullock of Montana expressed his state's difficulties in obtaining the necessary testing kits for contact tracing during the call. However, President Trump's response, "I haven't heard about testing in weeks," has raised concerns among governors and public health officials who have been struggling to secure testing kits for their constituents.

The President's defense of his administration's efforts in distributing medical equipment to the 50 states has been met with skepticism, as the effort has been described as chaotic. Despite Trump's claims that "massive amounts of medical supplies" are being delivered directly to states and hospitals, some governors have expressed frustration with the federal government's response to the crisis.

The lack of testing kits has been a significant issue in the country's response to the coronavirus pandemic. Without adequate testing, public health officials cannot accurately track the spread of the virus, and individuals who have been infected cannot receive timely medical treatment.

President Trump's suggestion that governors should not wait for the federal government to supply hospitals with equipment for coronavirus treatments has also been met with criticism. Some governors have expressed surprise at the President's remarks, as they rely on the federal government for support during a national emergency.

The President's self-regard and audacious rewriting of recent history to cast himself as the hero of the pandemic have been criticized as inappropriate during a time of national crisis. The American public has expressed concerns about the federal government's response to the pandemic, with a Gallup poll conducted in early-to-mid-February showing that 77% of respondents had confidence in the federal government to handle a coronavirus outbreak.

President Trump's announcement Monday that he would resurrect the White House coronavirus task force briefings is a welcome step towards transparency and accountability. However, the President's misrepresentation of the coronavirus testing efforts and downplaying of the crisis has raised concerns among governors and public health officials who are working tirelessly to combat the pandemic.

As the country grapples with the coronavirus pandemic, it is essential that the federal government provides accurate and timely information to the public. The President's misrepresentation of the coronavirus testing efforts undermines public trust and hinders the country's ability to combat the pandemic effectively. It is crucial that the federal government works collaboratively with state and local officials to ensure that testing kits and medical supplies are distributed efficiently and equitably.
Title: President Trump's Assurance on Testing Equipment Amidst Persistent Shortages

In a conference call with governors on Monday, President Donald Trump expressed optimism about the coronavirus response, including work on a vaccine and the impact on the economy. However, he made a statement that raised concerns about his understanding of the situation on the ground in states across the nation.

During the call, Montana Governor Steve Bullock shared the challenges his state has been facing in obtaining a sufficient number of COVID-19 tests for contact tracing. Contrary to the near-constant reporting on the issue and loud warnings from local officials, President Trump stated that he hasn't heard about testing being a problem in weeks.

The President's defense of his administration's efforts in distributing medical equipment to the 50 states has been met with mixed reactions. While some governors appreciate the assistance, others have expressed concerns about the chaotic nature of the process. In the same call, President Trump suggested that governors should not wait for the federal government to supply hospitals with equipment for coronavirus treatments if they can source them on their own.

The U.S. death toll from the coronavirus has surpassed 5,100, and there are worries that the shortage of testing equipment could hinder efforts to curb the spread of the virus. Despite this, President Trump tweeted that massive amounts of medical supplies, including hospitals and medical centers, are being delivered directly to states and hospitals.

A Gallup poll conducted in early-to-mid-February found that 77% of respondents had confidence in the federal government to handle a coronavirus outbreak. However, recent events have raised questions about the effectiveness of the federal response, with the President drawing criticism for his handling of the crisis.

The President's self-regard, credit-taking, and audacious rewriting of recent history to cast himself as the hero of the pandemic have been defining features of his use of the bully pulpit during the coronavirus outbreak. Despite his previous assertions that the number of infected individuals in the country would soon be close to zero, President Trump has since acknowledged that more than a million people in the U.S. could contract coronavirus.

In summary, while President Trump's optimism about the coronavirus response is encouraging, his statement about not hearing about testing being a problem in weeks is concerning. With the U.S. death toll continuing to rise and concerns about the shortage of testing equipment persisting, it is essential that the federal government works closely with state governors to ensure that the necessary resources are made available to combat the pandemic.
Title: President Trump's Misrepresentation of Coronavirus Testing Efforts Raises Concerns among Governors

In a conference call with governors on Monday, President Donald Trump downplayed the ongoing struggles states are facing in obtaining adequate testing equipment for the coronavirus. Despite loud warnings from local officials and near-constant reporting on the issue by media outlets, the President claimed he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" in weeks.

Governor Steve Bullock of Montana expressed his concerns about the difficulties in acquiring sufficient test kits for contact tracing during the call. Regrettably, President Trump's response demonstrated a disconnect from the reality on the ground, as Montana, like many other states, is grappling with the consequences of insufficient testing capabilities.

The President's defense of his administration's efforts in distributing medical equipment to the 50 states has been met with skepticism, as the process has been described as chaotic. Despite his claims, the lack of a coordinated and efficient federal response has left states scrambling to source essential medical supplies, including test kits, ventilators, and personal protective equipment for healthcare workers.

In a recording shared with The New York Times, President Trump suggested to governors that they should not wait for the federal government to supply hospitals with equipment for coronavirus treatments, further complicating matters. This unexpected recommendation caught some governors off guard, exacerbating the existing challenges they face.

To make matters worse, despite early confidence in the federal government's ability to handle a coronavirus outbreak, a Gallup poll conducted in early-to-mid-February found that 77% of respondents had confidence in the federal government. Unfortunately, this confidence has been shaken in recent weeks due to the administration's slow response and misrepresentation of the situation.

As the U.S. death toll surpasses 5,100, it is crucial for the President and his administration to demonstrate transparency and acknowledge the severity of the situation. Downplaying the challenges faced by states in obtaining testing equipment and other essential medical supplies only serves to hinder the ongoing efforts to combat the virus and protect the American public.

Instead of dismissing the concerns of governors and local officials, the Trump administration should work collaboratively with them to address the shortages in testing equipment and other medical supplies. By fostering a transparent and cooperative environment, the nation can more effectively tackle the coronavirus pandemic and pave the way for recovery.
President Trump Holds Conference Call with Governors on Coronavirus Response: Testing Shortages Denied

In a conference call with governors from across the nation, President Donald Trump discussed the ongoing response to the coronavirus pandemic, including work on a vaccine, the impact on the economy, and concerns about shortages of testing equipment. However, the President made a surprising claim, stating that he hasn't heard about testing being a problem, despite repeated warnings from local officials and consistent reporting on the issue by media outlets.

The call took place on Monday, and audio was obtained by several national media outlets, including NBC News, the New York Times, and the Washington Post. During the call, Montana Governor Steve Bullock discussed the struggles his state has faced in obtaining the necessary number of COVID-19 tests for contact tracing. Despite these concerns, President Trump stated that he hasn't heard about testing being an issue in weeks.

The testing shortage has been a significant point of contention in the United States, with some testing sites reporting a shortage of testing kits and supplies. This shortage has left many unable to get tested, even if they are experiencing symptoms or have had close contact with someone who has tested positive for the virus.

The President's claim that he hasn't heard about testing being a problem in weeks is at odds with the reality on the ground. Many local officials have reported difficulties in obtaining the necessary testing kits, and many Americans have reported long wait times for test results. Furthermore, the lack of available testing has hindered efforts to track the spread of the virus and implement effective measures to contain it.

Despite these challenges, President Trump has defended his administration's response to the crisis. He has stated that massive amounts of medical supplies, including hospitals and medical centers, are being delivered directly to the states and hospitals. However, some governors have criticized the federal government's response, stating that it has been chaotic and uncoordinated.

In contrast to President Trump's claims that testing is no longer an issue, many health experts have emphasized the importance of expanding testing capacity. Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation's top infectious disease expert, has stated that widespread testing is crucial to reopening the economy safely and preventing another surge in cases.

As the pandemic continues, it is essential that the federal government work effectively with state and local officials to address the challenges that lie ahead. Denying the existence of these challenges, as President Trump has done, will only hinder efforts to contain the virus and protect the American people.

In summary, during a conference call with governors, President Trump denied concerns about shortages of coronavirus testing equipment in states across the nation, claiming he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" despite loud warnings from local officials and near-constant reporting on the issue by media outlets. The President's claims are at odds with the reality on the ground, and experts have emphasized the importance of expanding testing capacity to contain the virus and reopen the economy safely.
President Trump Holds Call with Governors on Coronavirus Response

On Monday, President Donald Trump held a conference call with state governors to discuss the ongoing response to the coronavirus pandemic. The call covered a range of topics, including progress on vaccine development, the economic impact of the crisis, and concerns about testing capacity across the nation.

During the call, President Trump emphasized the federal government's efforts to distribute medical supplies and equipment to states in need. He highlighted the "massive amounts of medical supplies, even hospitals and medical centers" being delivered directly to states and hospitals. The President also encouraged governors to seek out their own sources for medical equipment if possible, rather than relying solely on federal assistance.

One of the main points of contention during the call was the issue of coronavirus testing. Montana Governor Steve Bullock expressed concerns about his state's ability to conduct adequate testing and contact tracing, warning that they were "one day away" from running out of test kits if they didn't receive more from the CDC. However, President Trump seemed to downplay these concerns, stating that he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" in recent weeks.

This response from the President raised eyebrows among some governors and observers, given the widespread reporting on testing shortages and the consistent warnings from local officials about the need for increased testing capacity. The discrepancy between the President's perception and the reality on the ground in many states highlighted the ongoing challenges in coordinating a cohesive national response to the pandemic.

The call also touched on the economic impact of the crisis, with the President acknowledging the severe toll the pandemic has taken on businesses and workers across the country. He discussed potential measures to support economic recovery once the immediate health crisis begins to subside.

Vaccine development was another key topic of discussion during the call. The President provided an update on ongoing efforts to accelerate the creation and distribution of a coronavirus vaccine, emphasizing the importance of this work in the long-term fight against the pandemic.

As the call concluded, it was clear that while progress has been made in some areas of the coronavirus response, significant challenges remain. The disconnect between federal and state perspectives on issues like testing capacity underscores the need for improved communication and coordination as the nation continues to grapple with this unprecedented public health crisis.
President Trump Holds Call with Governors on Coronavirus Response

On Monday, President Donald Trump held a conference call with state governors to discuss the ongoing response to the coronavirus pandemic. The call covered various aspects of the crisis, including progress on vaccine development, economic impacts, and the distribution of medical supplies.

During the call, President Trump addressed concerns about shortages of coronavirus testing equipment in states across the nation. However, his response raised eyebrows when he claimed he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" despite widespread reports of testing shortages and concerns voiced by local officials.

Montana Governor Steve Bullock expressed his state's difficulties in obtaining enough COVID-19 tests to conduct proper "contact tracing." Bullock warned that without adequate testing capacity, smaller rural states like Montana could face "real problems" in managing the outbreak.

The President's assertion that he hadn't "heard about testing in weeks" contradicted the experiences shared by governors and the near-constant media coverage of testing shortages. This disconnect highlighted the ongoing challenges in coordinating a cohesive national response to the pandemic.

Trump defended his administration's efforts to distribute medical equipment to the states, citing "massive amounts of medical supplies, even hospitals and medical centers, are being delivered directly to states and hospitals." However, he also suggested that governors should not wait for federal assistance and should try to source equipment on their own if possible.

The call also touched on the economic impact of the crisis, with Trump acknowledging the possibility that more than a million people in the US could contract the coronavirus. He emphasized the importance of mitigation efforts and the extension of social distancing guidelines through April to curb these numbers.

The discussion revealed the complex dynamics between federal and state governments in managing the crisis. While the Trump administration claims progress in its response efforts, many state leaders continue to voice concerns about resource shortages and the need for more federal support.

As the pandemic continues to evolve, these conference calls between the President and governors serve as a crucial platform for coordination and information sharing. However, the apparent disconnect between federal perceptions and state-level realities underscores the ongoing challenges in mounting an effective, unified response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
President Trump Holds Call with Governors on Coronavirus Response

On Monday, President Donald Trump held a conference call with state governors to discuss the ongoing response to the coronavirus pandemic. The call covered a range of topics including progress on vaccine development, economic impacts, and concerns about testing capacity.

During the call, President Trump emphasized the federal government's efforts to support states in their fight against COVID-19. He highlighted the distribution of medical supplies and equipment to hospitals across the nation, stating that "massive amounts of medical supplies, even hospitals and medical centers, are being delivered directly to states and hospitals."

However, the call also revealed some apparent disconnects between the federal and state-level perspectives on the crisis. Montana Governor Steve Bullock expressed concerns about shortages of coronavirus testing equipment, warning that his state was "one day away" from running out of test kits if they didn't receive more from the CDC. Bullock emphasized the importance of testing capacity for conducting contact tracing to control the spread of the virus.

In response, President Trump claimed he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" in recent weeks, despite ongoing reports of testing shortages from local officials and media outlets. This statement surprised some governors on the call, given the widespread reporting on testing challenges across the country.

The President also suggested that states should not wait for federal assistance if they can source medical equipment on their own, a stance that caught some governors off guard. This advice comes as the distribution of medical supplies has faced criticism for being chaotic and insufficient in some areas.

The call touched on economic concerns as well, with discussions about the pandemic's impact on state economies and federal efforts to mitigate the financial fallout. President Trump acknowledged the possibility that more than a million Americans could contract the virus but expressed hope that mitigation efforts and extended social distancing guidelines would help curb those numbers.

As the U.S. death toll from COVID-19 surpasses 5,100, the call highlighted the ongoing challenges in coordinating a unified national response to the pandemic. While the federal government touts its efforts to support states, many local officials continue to voice concerns about resource shortages and the need for increased federal assistance.

The conference call with governors represents part of the administration's efforts to manage the crisis, coming just as President Trump announced plans to resurrect the White House coronavirus task force briefings. As the pandemic continues to evolve, the coordination between federal and state governments remains a critical factor in the nation's response to this unprecedented public health emergency.
President Trump Discusses Coronavirus Response with Governors

On Monday, President Donald Trump held a conference call with state governors to discuss the ongoing response to the coronavirus pandemic. The call covered a range of topics, including progress on vaccine development, the economic impact of the crisis, and concerns about testing capacity.

During the call, President Trump emphasized the federal government's efforts to support states in their fight against COVID-19. He highlighted the distribution of medical supplies and equipment to hospitals across the nation, stating that "massive amounts of medical supplies, even hospitals and medical centers, are being delivered directly to states and hospitals."

However, the call also revealed some discrepancies between the President's perception of the situation and the experiences reported by state governors. When Montana Governor Steve Bullock expressed concerns about shortages of coronavirus testing equipment, President Trump claimed he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" in weeks. This statement surprised many, given the frequent reporting on testing shortages by media outlets and warnings from local officials.

The President's response to testing concerns highlights the ongoing challenges in coordinating a nationwide response to the pandemic. While the federal government maintains that significant progress has been made in increasing testing capacity, many states continue to report difficulties in obtaining sufficient test kits and related equipment.

The call also touched on the economic implications of the crisis. President Trump acknowledged the severe impact on the economy but expressed hope that the situation would improve as the country works towards controlling the spread of the virus.

In discussing vaccine development, the President provided an update on ongoing efforts to accelerate the process. While no specific timeline was given, he emphasized the importance of this work in the overall strategy to combat the pandemic.

The conference call underscores the complex nature of managing a national crisis, with federal and state governments trying to coordinate their efforts. As the situation continues to evolve, clear communication and cooperation between all levels of government will be crucial in effectively responding to the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic.
President Trump Holds Call with Governors on Coronavirus Response

On Monday, President Donald Trump held a conference call with state governors to discuss the ongoing response to the coronavirus pandemic. The call covered several key topics, including progress on vaccine development, the economic impact of the crisis, and concerns about testing capacity across the nation.

During the call, President Trump highlighted the federal government's efforts to support states in their fight against COVID-19. He emphasized the distribution of medical supplies, including personal protective equipment and ventilators, to hospitals and healthcare facilities nationwide. The President also touted the rapid progress being made on potential vaccine candidates, with several already in clinical trials.

However, the call was not without controversy. When Montana Governor Steve Bullock raised concerns about shortages of coronavirus testing equipment in his state, President Trump claimed he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" in recent weeks. This statement contradicted reports from local officials and media outlets that have consistently highlighted ongoing issues with testing capacity.

Governor Bullock expressed worry that Montana was "one day away" from being unable to conduct tests if they didn't receive additional kits from the CDC. He stressed the importance of testing in enabling contact tracing efforts, which are crucial for containing the spread of the virus.

The President's response to these concerns surprised some governors on the call. Trump suggested that states should not wait for the federal government to supply all necessary equipment and should attempt to source items like respirators on their own if possible. This approach has led to what some describe as a chaotic distribution effort, with states competing against each other for limited resources.

Despite the challenges, President Trump defended his administration's response to the crisis. He cited a Gallup poll from February that showed 77% of respondents had confidence in the federal government's ability to handle a coronavirus outbreak. However, it's worth noting that this poll was conducted before any reported US deaths from the virus.

The call also touched on the economic impact of the pandemic. With businesses shuttered and millions of Americans out of work, the President and governors discussed strategies for eventually reopening the economy while balancing public health concerns.

As the US death toll from COVID-19 surpasses 5,100, the call underscored the ongoing challenges faced by both federal and state governments in coordinating an effective response to the crisis. While progress is being made on multiple fronts, including vaccine development and the production of medical supplies, issues such as testing capacity remain a point of contention between some state leaders and the Trump administration.

The conference call serves as a snapshot of the complex and evolving nature of the nation's coronavirus response, highlighting both areas of progress and persistent challenges as the country continues to grapple with this unprecedented public health emergency.
## Trump Claims "No Testing Problems" Despite Governors' Pleas for More Kits

**Washington D.C.** - President Donald Trump faced immediate backlash on Monday after claiming he hadn't "heard about testing being a problem" during a conference call with governors, despite widespread reports and pleas from state officials about critical shortages of coronavirus testing equipment.

The President's comments came after Montana Governor Steve Bullock detailed the dire situation in his state, warning that they were "one day away" from being unable to conduct any further COVID-19 testing without additional kits from the CDC. Bullock's stark warning was echoed by other governors on the call, who expressed similar concerns about their ability to effectively track and contain the virus without sufficient testing capacity.

Leaked audio of the call revealed Trump's dismissive response to these concerns. "I haven't heard about testing in weeks," he stated, seemingly unaware of the ongoing crisis unfolding across the nation. This statement directly contradicted numerous reports from state officials, healthcare workers, and media outlets highlighting the severe testing shortages plaguing the country.

The President's comments sparked immediate criticism from both Democrats and Republicans. Many accused him of being out of touch with the realities faced by Americans on the frontlines of the pandemic.

"The President's denial of the testing crisis is not only irresponsible, it's dangerous," said Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). "His administration's failure to adequately address this issue is putting lives at risk."

Even some Republican lawmakers expressed concern over Trump's dismissive attitude. "We need to be honest with the American people about the challenges we face," said Senator Mitt Romney (R-UT). "Downplaying the severity of the testing shortage is not a solution."

The controversy surrounding the call highlights the ongoing tension between the Trump administration and state officials over the federal government's response to the pandemic. While the President has repeatedly claimed that his administration is doing "a great job," many governors and healthcare experts argue that more needs to be done to effectively combat the virus.


<end_of_turn>
## Trump Claims "Haven't Heard About Testing" Despite Governors' Urgent Pleas

**Washington D.C.** - President Donald Trump faced mounting criticism Monday after a leaked recording revealed he dismissed concerns about nationwide coronavirus testing shortages during a call with governors. 

Despite numerous reports and warnings from state officials, including Montana Governor Steve Bullock, about the critical lack of testing kits, President Trump insisted he "hasn't heard about testing in weeks."  

Governor Bullock, during the call, painted a stark picture of the situation in Montana, stating that his state was "one day away" from being unable to conduct any further COVID-19 testing without receiving additional kits from the CDC. 

"We are trying to do contact tracing, but literally we are one day away if we don't get test kits from the CDC, that we wouldn't be able to do testing in Montana," Bullock warned.

The President's dismissive response sparked outrage and accusations of negligence from both Democrats and Republicans. Critics pointed to the President's repeated downplaying of the virus's severity and his administration's slow and disorganized response to the pandemic.

"This is a national crisis, and the President is out of touch," said Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). "He needs to stop ignoring the problem and start working with governors to get the resources they need."

The leaked audio further fuels concerns about the federal government's handling of the pandemic.  Just last week, President Trump suggested governors should procure their own medical equipment, including respirators, instead of relying on federal assistance.

This latest incident comes as the U.S. death toll from COVID-19 continues to climb, exceeding 5,100. The lack of widespread testing remains a major obstacle to containing the virus and reopening the economy.


<end_of_turn>
## Trump Insists "Haven't Heard About Testing" Despite Governors' Urgent Pleas 

**Washington D.C.** - President Donald Trump faced mounting criticism on Monday after downplaying the severity of coronavirus testing shortages during a call with governors, despite numerous reports and pleas from state officials highlighting the issue. 

In a leaked recording of the call, President Trump dismissed concerns raised by Montana Governor Steve Bullock about the state's dwindling supply of COVID-19 test kits, stating, "I haven't heard about testing in weeks." This statement directly contradicted Bullock's urgent warning that Montana was "one day away" from being unable to conduct contact tracing without additional test kits from the CDC.

Governor Bullock's plea echoed similar concerns raised by governors across the nation, who have been struggling to obtain sufficient testing supplies to effectively track and contain the spread of the virus. 

The President's dismissive response sparked immediate backlash, with critics accusing him of ignoring the gravity of the situation and failing to provide adequate support to states grappling with the pandemic.

"The President's comments are deeply concerning," said Senator Elizabeth Warren in a statement. "He is out of touch with the reality on the ground and his administration's failure to prioritize testing is putting lives at risk."

The White House defended the President's remarks, claiming that the administration is working diligently to increase testing capacity nationwide. However, the leaked recording raises serious questions about the administration's understanding of the challenges facing states and its commitment to providing the necessary resources to combat the pandemic.

The incident further highlights the growing tension between the federal government and state officials as they navigate the unprecedented challenges posed by the coronavirus crisis.


<end_of_turn>
## Trump Downplays Testing Shortages in Call With Governors

**WASHINGTON D.C.** - President Trump downplayed widespread concerns about coronavirus testing shortages during a conference call with governors on Monday, claiming he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" despite repeated warnings from state officials and media reports. 

The President's comments came as Montana Governor Steve Bullock warned that his state was "one day away" from being unable to conduct COVID-19 tests due to a lack of kits from the CDC. Bullock underscored the crucial role of testing in contact tracing efforts, a key strategy in mitigating the spread of the virus.

Leaked audio of the call revealed Trump's dismissive response to Bullock's concerns. "I haven't heard about testing in weeks," the President stated, contradicting the mounting evidence of widespread testing shortages across the nation. 

This incident further highlights the ongoing tension between the Trump administration and state officials grappling with the pandemic's impact. Governors have repeatedly criticized the federal government's slow response to the crisis, particularly in securing adequate testing supplies.

The President's assertion about testing shortages comes at a time when the U.S. death toll from COVID-19 has surpassed 5,100. While Trump has touted the administration's efforts to distribute medical supplies, the effort has been plagued by logistical challenges and inconsistent messaging.

Trump's downplaying of testing shortages has drawn sharp criticism from both Democrats and Republicans. Many experts have warned that the lack of widespread testing hinders the nation's ability to accurately track the virus's spread and implement effective containment measures.


The administration's handling of the pandemic continues to be a major point of contention, with growing calls for greater transparency and accountability. 
<end_of_turn>
## Trump Downplays Testing Crisis During Call With Governors 

**WASHINGTON D.C.** - President Donald Trump faced criticism Monday after downplaying a nationwide shortage of coronavirus testing equipment during a call with governors, despite repeated warnings from state officials and widespread media coverage of the issue. 

In a leaked recording of the call, President Trump claimed he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem in weeks" despite Montana Governor Steve Bullock detailing the state's struggle to obtain sufficient test kits for contact tracing. 

"We are trying to do contact tracing, but literally we are one day away if we don't get test kits from the CDC, that we wouldn't be able to do testing in Montana," Governor Bullock warned.

Trump's dismissive response drew immediate backlash, with critics accusing the President of ignoring the severity of the testing crisis and failing to provide adequate support to states struggling to contain the virus. 

"His words are a slap in the face to the governors and healthcare workers on the front lines who are battling this pandemic every day," said Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). 

The situation highlights the ongoing tensions between the federal government and states over the distribution of critical resources. While President Trump has touted the federal government's efforts to provide medical supplies, many states have complained about delays and shortages. 

During the call, President Trump also suggested that governors should not rely solely on the federal government for medical equipment, urging them to source supplies independently. This seemingly contradictory message further fueled confusion and frustration among state officials already facing unprecedented challenges.

The President's comments come as the U.S. death toll from the coronavirus continues to rise. With over 5,100 deaths reported, the nation faces a critical moment in its battle against the pandemic.


This situation underscores the need for clear and consistent communication from the federal government, as well as a robust and coordinated response to ensure that states have the resources they need to protect their citizens. 
<end_of_turn>
President Trump Downplays Coronavirus Testing Shortages in Call with Governors

In a conference call with a group of state governors on Monday, President Donald Trump expressed concerns about shortages of coronavirus testing equipment in states across the nation, claiming he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" despite loud warnings from local officials and near-constant reporting on the issue by media outlets.

The call, which was leaked to national media outlets, revealed a stark contrast between the administration's public statements and the reality on the ground. Governor Steve Bullock of Montana, who participated in the call, described the difficulties his state has faced in obtaining the necessary testing equipment for contact tracing. "We are trying to do contact tracing, but literally we are one day away if we don't get test kits from the CDC, that we wouldn't be able to do testing in Montana," Bullock said in a recording of the call.

President Trump's response to the issue was dismissive, with the president stating, "I haven't heard about testing in weeks." This assertion was met with skepticism by many, given the widespread reporting on the shortages of testing equipment and the warnings from local officials.

The call highlighted the chaotic nature of the administration's efforts to distribute medical equipment to states. Despite Trump's claims of delivering "massive amounts of medical supplies" directly to states and hospitals, the reality on the ground is that many states are struggling to obtain the necessary equipment.

The president's defense of his administration's response to the crisis was also marked by self-regard and credit-taking. In a tweet, Trump claimed that "we'll have to live with it," implying that the administration's response was adequate despite the challenges faced by states.

The incident is the latest example of Trump's use of the bully pulpit to shape public opinion and downplay the severity of the crisis. In his State of the Union address, Trump mentioned the issue briefly, but only in passing, taking just 20 seconds out of his 78-minute speech.

The administration's response to the pandemic has been marked by controversy and criticism, with many accusing Trump of being slow to respond to the crisis. The president's decision to resurrect the White House coronavirus task force briefings is seen by many as an attempt to turn around the administration's failed response to the pandemic.

As the U.S. death toll continues to rise, with over 5,100 reported deaths, many are questioning the administration's ability to effectively respond to the crisis. The shortages of testing equipment and the delays in distributing medical supplies have been a major concern for many states, and the administration's response has been widely criticized.

In a Gallup poll conducted in early-to-mid-February, before there were any reported US deaths from the coronavirus, 77% of respondents had confidence in the federal government to handle a coronavirus outbreak. However, the administration's response to the crisis has been marked by a lack of transparency and a failure to provide adequate support to states.

The incident highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in the administration's response to the pandemic. As the crisis continues to unfold, many are left wondering whether the administration is truly equipped to handle the challenge ahead.
## Trump Tells Governors He "Hasn't Heard About Testing in Weeks" Despite Ongoing Shortages

President Donald Trump held a conference call with state governors on Monday, discussing the ongoing response to the coronavirus pandemic. While the call covered topics like vaccine development and the economic impact of the crisis, one particularly striking exchange highlighted the disconnect between the Trump administration's perception of the situation and the reality on the ground.

During the call, Montana Governor Steve Bullock raised concerns about the severe shortage of coronavirus testing kits in his state, explaining that without adequate testing, his administration would be unable to conduct crucial "contact tracing" efforts to contain the spread of the virus. 

"We are trying to do contact tracing, but literally we are one day away if we don't get test kits from the CDC, that we wouldn't be able to do testing in Montana," Bullock said in a recording of the call obtained by multiple news outlets.

Trump's response, however, was dismissive. "I haven't heard about testing in weeks," he said, according to leaked audio of the call. "I haven't heard about testing in weeks."

This statement directly contradicts the widespread reports of testing shortages across the country, with local officials and medical professionals consistently raising alarms about the lack of available kits. The issue has been a constant topic of discussion in the media, further highlighting the disconnect between Trump's claims and the reality on the ground.

The exchange underscores a pattern of behavior from the Trump administration throughout the pandemic. Despite repeated warnings from experts and mounting evidence of the severity of the crisis, Trump has consistently downplayed the threat, often contradicting his own administration's scientific advisors. 

This latest incident, coupled with the administration's chaotic response to the pandemic, has raised further concerns about the government's ability to effectively address the crisis and protect the American public. 

## Trump Tells Governors He "Hasn't Heard About Testing in Weeks" Amidst Nationwide Shortages

President Donald Trump held a conference call with state governors on Monday, discussing the ongoing response to the coronavirus pandemic. While the call covered topics including vaccine development, economic impact, and the distribution of medical supplies, one exchange in particular has drawn significant attention. 

During the call, Montana Governor Steve Bullock raised concerns about the severe shortage of COVID-19 testing kits in his state, highlighting the difficulty in conducting crucial "contact tracing" efforts. Bullock warned that Montana would be unable to continue testing within a day if they did not receive additional kits from the CDC. 

In response, President Trump claimed he had "not heard about testing in weeks," seemingly dismissing the widespread reports and concerns from local officials regarding the ongoing testing crisis. This statement has been met with widespread criticism, with many pointing to the near-constant media coverage of testing shortages and the numerous warnings from state and local leaders about the issue. 

This exchange comes amidst a broader pattern of President Trump downplaying the severity of the pandemic and emphasizing the success of his administration's response. While he has repeatedly touted the government's efforts in distributing medical supplies, many states have reported significant shortages of essential equipment like ventilators and personal protective equipment (PPE). 

In a separate instance during the call, President Trump suggested that governors should not wait for the federal government to provide medical equipment and instead source it themselves. This advice, which surprised some governors, further highlights the chaotic and inconsistent nature of the federal government's response to the crisis. 

The president's comments about testing shortages have sparked renewed criticism of his administration's handling of the pandemic. Critics argue that his dismissal of the issue demonstrates a lack of understanding of the severity of the crisis and a failure to prioritize the needs of states struggling to contain the virus. 

The ongoing shortage of testing kits remains a major obstacle in the fight against COVID-19, hindering efforts to track the spread of the virus, identify infected individuals, and implement effective containment measures. The president's dismissive remarks about the issue have only added to the growing concerns about the administration's ability to effectively address the pandemic. 

## Trump Claims Testing Shortages Not a Problem, Governors Push Back

President Donald Trump held a conference call with state governors on Monday to discuss the ongoing response to the coronavirus pandemic. While the call touched upon topics like vaccine development and the economic impact of the virus, the conversation was dominated by concerns over testing equipment shortages, a problem the president seemed to be unaware of.

During the call, Montana Governor Steve Bullock highlighted the dire situation in his state, stating that they were "one day away" from being unable to conduct testing due to a lack of kits. He emphasized the importance of testing for contact tracing, a crucial step in containing the virus' spread. 

However, President Trump, in a surprising statement, claimed he hadn't "heard about testing in weeks," suggesting that the widespread shortages reported by local officials and national media were not on his radar. This claim was met with disbelief and frustration by several governors on the call.

The president's statement further fueled criticism of his administration's handling of the pandemic, which has been plagued by a lack of preparedness and inconsistent messaging. While Trump has consistently boasted about his administration's efforts to distribute medical supplies, the process has been marked by chaos and delays, leaving many states struggling to secure the necessary equipment.

In a recording of the call obtained by The New York Times, Trump even suggested that governors should not rely on the federal government to provide equipment and instead source it themselves, a move that surprised many state leaders.

The president's dismissive stance on testing shortages comes at a time when the U.S. is facing a rapidly growing number of cases and deaths. The death toll has now surpassed 5,100, and experts predict the situation will worsen in the coming weeks.

The call highlights a growing disconnect between the president's perception of the situation and the reality on the ground. While Trump continues to portray himself as a decisive leader navigating the crisis, many governors are left grappling with a lack of resources and clear direction from the federal government. 

## Trump Claims Testing "Not a Problem" Despite Governor's Concerns

President Donald Trump, during a conference call with state governors on Monday, dismissed concerns about nationwide shortages of coronavirus testing equipment, claiming he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" in weeks. 

This statement contradicts both widespread reports from local officials and the near-constant media coverage of the issue. Governor Steve Bullock of Montana, in particular, voiced his state's urgent need for more testing kits, stating that they were "one day away" from halting testing altogether without additional supplies. 

"We are trying to do contact tracing, but literally we are one day away if we don't get test kits from the CDC, that we wouldn't be able to do testing in Montana," Bullock said in a recording of the call shared with national media outlets.

Despite Bullock's plea, Trump remained unconcerned, seemingly unaware of the mounting concerns about testing capacity across the country. His dismissive response has drawn criticism from health experts and politicians alike, who argue that the lack of widespread testing is hindering efforts to contain the virus and reopening the economy.

The call also saw Trump encouraging governors to source medical supplies independently, rather than relying on federal aid. This sparked further criticism, with some accusing the president of abdicating his responsibility in providing crucial resources during a national crisis.

"Massive amounts of medical supplies, even hospitals and medical centers, are being delivered directly to states and hospitals," Trump tweeted the same day. However, many governors have reported difficulty obtaining sufficient equipment, highlighting the chaotic and inconsistent nature of the federal government's response.

This incident is the latest in a series of mishaps that have characterized the Trump administration's handling of the pandemic. While initially downplaying the severity of the virus, Trump has since attempted to shift blame and take credit for the federal response, often contradicting expert advice and ignoring scientific evidence.

With the US death toll continuing to climb, the lack of adequate testing and the administration's inconsistent message are raising serious concerns about the country's ability to effectively combat the pandemic and navigate a safe path towards recovery. 

## Trump Tells Governors He Hasn't "Heard About Testing in Weeks" Despite Ongoing Shortages

**WASHINGTON** - In a conference call with state governors on Monday, President Donald Trump dismissed concerns about ongoing shortages of coronavirus testing equipment across the nation, claiming he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem." This assertion directly contradicted reports from local officials and consistent media coverage highlighting the severe lack of testing kits nationwide.

The call, which was recorded and leaked to multiple news outlets, saw Montana Governor Steve Bullock detail the difficulties his state has faced in obtaining enough COVID-19 tests for effective "contact tracing," a crucial step in containing the spread of the virus. 

"We are trying to do contact tracing, but literally we are one day away if we don't get test kits from the CDC, that we wouldn't be able to do testing in Montana," Governor Bullock said.

President Trump, however, seemed dismissive of these concerns. "I haven't heard about testing in weeks," he responded.

The president's statement drew immediate criticism, with many highlighting the stark disconnect between his claim and the reality on the ground. Medical professionals and public health officials have consistently raised alarms about the lack of testing capacity, particularly in rural areas, hindering efforts to track and contain the virus.

This incident follows a pattern of President Trump downplaying the severity of the pandemic and minimizing the challenges faced by states in their efforts to combat the virus. While touting his administration's efforts to distribute medical supplies, he has repeatedly shifted responsibility to individual states, urging them to source their own equipment.

Governor Bullock's plea for testing support further highlights the ongoing struggle faced by states in securing necessary resources for effective public health measures. The president's dismissive response underscores a growing sense of disconnect between his administration's messaging and the realities on the ground, particularly regarding the crucial need for widespread testing. 

Title: President Trump Discusses Vaccine Progress and Economic Impact with Governors Amid Testing Concerns

President Donald Trump held a conference call with governors on Monday to discuss the ongoing response to the coronavirus pandemic. The call covered a range of topics, including the progress on a vaccine, the impact on the economy, and concerns about shortages of coronavirus testing equipment in states across the nation.

During the call, Governor Steve Bullock of Montana raised concerns about the difficulty his state has faced in obtaining the number of COVID-19 tests needed for contact tracing. Bullock warned that Montana would have "real problems" if they could not soon obtain the necessary testing equipment. However, President Trump claimed he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" despite loud warnings from local officials and near-constant reporting on the issue by media outlets.

The president's response surprised some governors, as the effort to distribute medical equipment to the 50 states has been chaotic. In a recording shared with The New York Times, President Trump suggested to governors that they should not wait for the federal government to supply hospitals with equipment for coronavirus treatments. Instead, he encouraged them to source the equipment on their own if possible.

Despite the president's defense of his administration's response to the crisis, some governors have criticized the federal government's efforts. With the U.S. death toll topping 5,100, Trump defended the national government's response to the crisis, saying on Twitter, "Massive amounts of medical supplies, even hospitals and medical centers, are being delivered directly to states and hospitals." However, he also acknowledged that some governors "have insatiable appetites & are never satisfied (politics?)."

The call also touched on the progress being made on a vaccine for the virus. While it is still in the early stages, President Trump expressed optimism that a vaccine could be available by the end of the year. However, he also acknowledged that the process could take longer than expected.

The economic impact of the pandemic was also discussed during the call. President Trump acknowledged that the pandemic has had a significant impact on the economy, but he expressed confidence that the country would recover. He also discussed the possibility of reopening businesses in the coming weeks, but emphasized that any decision to do so would be made with the health and safety of the American people in mind.

In conclusion, the conference call between President Trump and governors covered a range of topics related to the ongoing response to the coronavirus pandemic. While progress on a vaccine and the impact on the economy were discussed, concerns about shortages of coronavirus testing equipment in states across the nation were also raised. The president's response to these concerns has been met with criticism from some governors, who have called for more support from the federal government in obtaining the necessary equipment to combat the virus.
Title: President Trump Discusses Vaccine, Economy, and Testing Shortages in Call with Governors

President Donald Trump held a conference call with governors on Monday to discuss the response to the coronavirus pandemic, including work on a vaccine, the impact on the economy, and concerns about shortages of testing equipment in states across the nation.

During the call, Montana Governor Steve Bullock raised concerns about the difficulty his state has had in obtaining the number of COVID-19 tests needed for contact tracing. Bullock warned that Montana would soon be unable to do testing if they didn't receive test kits from the CDC. However, President Trump claimed he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" despite warnings from local officials and media outlets.

The president's response surprised some governors, as the effort to distribute medical equipment to the 50 states has been chaotic. In a recording shared with The New York Times, President Trump suggested to governors that they should not wait for the federal government to supply hospitals with equipment for coronavirus treatments.

Despite the president's defense of his administration's response to the crisis, some governors have criticized the federal government's efforts, saying they have insatiable appetites and are never satisfied. However, President Trump tweeted that "Massive amounts of medical supplies, even hospitals and medical centers, are being delivered directly to states and hospitals."

In a recent Gallup poll conducted in early-to-mid-February, before there were any reported US deaths from the coronavirus, 77% of respondents had confidence in the federal government to handle a coronavirus outbreak. However, the president's handling of the pandemic has been criticized by some, with his use of the bully pulpit during the outbreak being characterized by self-regard, credit-taking, and audacious rewriting of recent history to cast himself as the hero of the pandemic rather than the president who was slow to respond.

President Trump's announcement on Monday that he would resurrect the White House coronavirus task force briefings is the culmination of weeks of debate among his aides about how best to turn around or explain away his administration's failed response to the pandemic. The president also predicted that many would be infected with the virus, but added that mitigation and extending the distancing guidelines through April will hopefully curb those numbers.

In conclusion, President Trump's call with governors on Monday covered a range of topics related to the coronavirus pandemic, including work on a vaccine, the impact on the economy, and concerns about shortages of testing equipment in states across the nation. While the president defended his administration's response to the crisis, some governors have criticized the federal government's efforts, and the president's handling of the pandemic has been characterized by self-regard, credit-taking, and audacious rewriting of recent history.
Title: President Trump Discusses Vaccine Progress and Economic Impact with Governors Amid Testing Concerns

President Trump held a call with governors on Monday to discuss the ongoing response to the coronavirus pandemic, including progress on a vaccine and the economic impact of the crisis. However, concerns about shortages of testing equipment in states across the nation continued to be a major point of contention.

During the call, Montana Governor Steve Bullock raised concerns about the difficulty his state has faced in obtaining the number of COVID-19 tests they need for effective contact tracing. Bullock warned that Montana was "one day away" from not being able to conduct testing if they did not receive test kits from the CDC.

Despite these warnings, President Trump claimed he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem," according to leaked audio of the call obtained by The New York Times. This response was met with surprise from some governors, given the near-constant reporting on testing shortages by media outlets and warnings from local officials.

The effort to distribute medical equipment to states has been chaotic, with some governors expressing frustration at the lack of federal support. President Trump suggested that they should not wait for the federal government to supply hospitals with equipment for coronavirus treatments, instead encouraging them to source equipment on their own if possible.

The President also defended his administration's response to the crisis, stating that "Massive amounts of medical supplies, even hospitals and medical centers, are being delivered directly to states and hospitals." However, he added that some governors "have insatiable appetites & are never satisfied (politics?)."

Despite these concerns, President Trump expressed optimism about the progress being made on a vaccine. He also discussed the impact of the pandemic on the economy and the need to balance public health concerns with economic stability.

The call comes as the U.S. death toll from the coronavirus continues to rise, topping 5,100 as of Monday. While President Trump predicted that many people in the U.S. could contract coronavirus, he added that mitigation efforts and extending social distancing guidelines through April will hopefully curb those numbers.

The President's announcement that he would resurrect the White House coronavirus task force briefings is seen as an attempt to turn around or explain away his administration's response to the pandemic. The briefings had been discontinued in recent weeks as the President sought to focus on reopening the economy.

Overall, the call with governors highlighted the ongoing challenges of responding to the coronavirus pandemic, including testing shortages and the need for federal support in distributing medical equipment. While progress on a vaccine and economic stability were discussed, the focus remained on the immediate need to address the ongoing public health crisis.
President Trump held a call with governors on Monday to discuss the response to the coronavirus, including work on a vaccine and the impact on the economy. However, concerns about shortages of coronavirus testing equipment in states across the nation were raised during the call. Despite loud warnings from local officials and near-constant reporting on the issue by media outlets, President Trump claimed he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem."
Montana Governor Steve Bullock expressed his concerns about the difficulty of obtaining the number of COVID-19 tests needed for contact tracing. "We are trying to do contact tracing, but literally we are one day away if we don't get test kits from the CDC, that we wouldn't be able to do testing in Montana," Bullock said in a recording of the call provided to national media outlets including CNN and the New York Times.
In response, President Trump suggested that governors should not wait for the federal government to supply hospitals with equipment for coronavirus treatments. "I haven't heard about testing in weeks," the president said, according to leaked audio of the call obtained by the New York Times.
Some governors were surprised by the President's response, as the effort to distribute medical equipment to the 50 states has been chaotic. Despite Trump's defense of his administration's response, the lack of testing equipment has been a major issue for states across the nation.
During the call, President Trump also discussed the progress made on the development of a COVID-19 vaccine and the impact of the pandemic on the economy. However, the lack of testing equipment and the chaotic distribution of medical equipment remained the main concerns for many governors on the call.
As the US death toll continues to rise, the lack of testing equipment has been a major obstacle in the fight against the coronavirus. The President's response to the issue during the call has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the federal government's response to the pandemic.
Title: "President Trump Discusses Vaccine Progress and Economic Impact with Governors Amid Testing Shortages"

Introduction:
In a conference call with governors on Monday, President Trump addressed various topics concerning the coronavirus response, including vaccine development, the economic impact, and testing shortages. Despite loud warnings from local officials and near-constant media coverage, Trump claimed he had not heard about testing being a problem in states across the nation.

Body:

1. Vaccine Progress:
   * President Trump discussed the ongoing work on a COVID-19 vaccine during the call.
   * He expressed optimism about the progress being made but did not provide specific details on the timeline or efficacy of potential vaccines.

2. Economic Impact:
   * The President acknowledged the significant impact of the pandemic on the economy.
   * He emphasized the need to balance public health measures with the need to reopen businesses and resume economic activities.
   * Trump did not outline specific measures to address the economic fallout but reiterated his administration's commitment to support struggling industries and workers.

3. Testing Shortages:
   * Governor Steve Bullock of Montana raised concerns about the difficulty in obtaining the necessary number of coronavirus tests for "contact tracing."
   * He highlighted the critical need for test kits to prevent further spread of the virus, emphasizing that Montana was on the verge of running out of testing capacity.
   * Despite these warnings, President Trump stated that he had not heard about testing being a problem, suggesting that the issue was no longer a concern.
   * The President's remarks were met with surprise and skepticism, given the widespread reports of shortages and the pleas from local officials for assistance.

4. Federal Government's Role:
   * Trump suggested that governors should not rely solely on the federal government for medical equipment and resources, encouraging them to source supplies on their own if possible.
   * This statement aligned with previous assertions that the administration's response to the crisis has been effective, despite some governors expressing dissatisfaction with the supply chain and distribution efforts.

5. Criticism and Controversy:
   * The President's remarks on testing shortages were met with criticism from the media and opposition politicians.
   * Critics argued that the administration's handling of the pandemic had been inconsistent and that the claim of not hearing about testing problems contradicted the ongoing reports and pleas for help from state and local authorities.
   * The discrepancy between the President's comments and the reality faced by many states further fueled the debate over the federal government's response to the pandemic.

Conclusion:

In the call with governors on Monday, President Trump discussed various aspects of the coronavirus response. While he expressed optimism about vaccine development and acknowledged the economic impact of the pandemic, his claim of not hearing about testing shortages contradicted the reality faced by many states. The ongoing controversy surrounding the federal government's role in addressing testing shortages and other pandemic-related issues continued to be a point of contention and criticism.
**Trump Downplays Testing Shortages in Call with Governors, Despite Widespread Concerns**

In a conference call with governors on Monday, President Donald Trump claimed that he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" despite widespread concerns about shortages of coronavirus testing equipment in states across the nation. The president's comments were met with surprise and frustration from governors, who have been warning about the lack of testing kits and equipment for weeks.

The call, which was obtained by The New York Times, revealed a disconnect between the president's perception of the crisis and the reality on the ground. Montana Governor Steve Bullock expressed his concerns about the shortage of testing equipment, saying that his state was "one day away" from not being able to conduct testing due to a lack of kits from the CDC.

"We are trying to do contact tracing, but literally we are one day away if we don't get test kits from the CDC, that we wouldn't be able to do testing in Montana," Bullock said.

However, Trump responded by saying that he "hasn't heard about testing in weeks," suggesting that the issue was no longer a problem. The president's comments were at odds with the reality on the ground, where governors and local officials have been warning about the shortage of testing equipment for weeks.

The president's defense of his administration's response to the crisis was also met with skepticism. Trump claimed that the federal government was delivering "massive amounts of medical supplies" to states and hospitals, but governors have reported that the effort has been chaotic and disorganized.

The president's comments on testing shortages are just the latest example of his administration's slow response to the crisis. Despite warnings from health experts and governors, Trump has consistently downplayed the severity of the outbreak and has been slow to take action.

The president's handling of the crisis has been widely criticized, and his approval ratings have taken a hit as a result. A Gallup poll conducted in early March found that only 44% of Americans approved of Trump's handling of the crisis, down from 77% in February.

The president's decision to resurrect the White House coronavirus task force briefings on Monday was seen as an attempt to turn around his administration's failed response to the pandemic. However, his comments on testing shortages suggest that he still has a long way to go in addressing the concerns of governors and local officials.

As the US death toll from the coronavirus continues to rise, governors and health experts are urging the president to take a more proactive approach to addressing the crisis. With the shortage of testing equipment and medical supplies showing no signs of abating, it remains to be seen whether the president will take the necessary steps to address the crisis.
**Trump Downplays Testing Shortages in Call with Governors, Despite Warnings from Local Officials**

In a conference call with governors on Monday, President Donald Trump claimed that he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" despite widespread concerns about shortages of coronavirus testing equipment in states across the nation. The president's remarks were met with skepticism by local officials, who have been warning about the lack of testing kits and other medical equipment for weeks.

According to a recording of the call obtained by national media outlets, Montana Governor Steve Bullock expressed his concerns about the shortage of testing equipment in his state. "We are trying to do contact tracing, but literally we are one day away if we don't get test kits from the CDC, that we wouldn't be able to do testing in Montana," Bullock said.

However, President Trump seemed to downplay the issue, saying "I haven't heard about testing in weeks." The president's comments were at odds with the reality on the ground, where governors and local officials have been struggling to obtain the necessary testing equipment to combat the spread of the coronavirus.

The call was the latest example of the president's tendency to dismiss concerns about the government's response to the pandemic. Despite the growing number of cases and deaths, Trump has consistently claimed that the federal government is doing a great job in responding to the crisis.

"We are delivering massive amounts of medical supplies, even hospitals and medical centers, directly to states and hospitals," Trump tweeted on Monday. However, governors and local officials have disputed this claim, saying that they are still struggling to obtain the necessary equipment and supplies.

The president's comments on testing shortages were also at odds with his own administration's warnings about the importance of testing. In February, Dr. Nancy Messonnier, the director of the CDC's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, warned that "we are asking the American public to work with us to prepare for the expectation that this is going to be bad."

The call with governors was also notable for the president's suggestion that they should not wait for the federal government to provide them with medical equipment, but instead try to source it on their own. This advice was met with surprise by some governors, who have been relying on the federal government to provide them with the necessary supplies.

As the pandemic continues to spread, the president's comments on testing shortages and the government's response to the crisis are likely to be closely scrutinized. With the US death toll topping 5,100, the need for accurate information and effective leadership has never been more pressing.

In a statement, Governor Bullock said that he was "disappointed" by the president's comments on testing shortages. "We need a coordinated national response to this pandemic, and that includes ensuring that all states have access to the necessary testing equipment," he said.

The president's handling of the pandemic has been widely criticized, with many accusing him of being slow to respond to the crisis. In a Gallup poll conducted in early February, 77% of respondents said they had confidence in the federal government's ability to handle a coronavirus outbreak. However, that number has likely declined in recent weeks as the pandemic has spread and the government's response has been criticized.

As the pandemic continues to spread, the president's leadership and the government's response to the crisis will be under intense scrutiny. With the lives of millions of Americans at stake, the need for effective leadership and accurate information has never been more pressing.
**Trump Tells Governors He "Hasn't Heard" About Testing Shortages, Despite Widespread Reports**

In a conference call with governors on Monday, President Trump claimed that he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" in the nation's response to the coronavirus pandemic, despite loud warnings from local officials and near-constant reporting on the issue by media outlets.

The call was intended to discuss the administration's efforts to combat the virus, but it quickly turned into a contentious exchange between Trump and some of the governors, who expressed frustration with the federal government's response to the crisis.

Montana Governor Steve Bullock was one of the governors who spoke up about the challenges his state is facing in obtaining enough COVID-19 tests to conduct contact tracing. "We are trying to do contact tracing, but literally we are one day away if we don't get test kits from the CDC, that we wouldn't be able to do testing in Montana," Bullock said, according to a recording of the call obtained by The New York Times.

Trump's response was met with skepticism by many of the governors on the call. "I haven't heard about testing in weeks," the president said, despite the fact that testing shortages have been a major concern for states across the nation.

The president's comments were seen as tone-deaf by many, given the widespread reporting on the issue and the pleas for help from local officials. Trump has been criticized for his administration's slow response to the pandemic, and his comments on Monday did little to alleviate those concerns.

In fact, Trump's own words have often been at odds with the reality on the ground. On February 26, he predicted that the number of coronavirus cases in the US would be "down to close to zero" within a couple of days. At the time, there were just 15 known cases in the country. Today, the US death toll has topped 5,100, and the number of cases continues to rise.

The president's comments on Monday were also seen as a continuation of his pattern of deflecting blame and taking credit for the efforts of others. In a tweet earlier in the day, Trump claimed that "Massive amounts of medical supplies, even hospitals and medical centers, are being delivered directly to states and hospitals." However, many governors have reported that they are still struggling to obtain the equipment they need to respond to the crisis.

The call on Monday was just the latest example of the tension between Trump and the nation's governors, who are growing increasingly frustrated with the federal government's response to the pandemic. As the crisis continues to worsen, it remains to be seen whether Trump's administration will be able to provide the support and resources that states need to combat the virus.

In a statement, Governor Bullock said that he was "disappointed" by the president's comments, and reiterated the need for the federal government to provide more support to states. "We need a coordinated national response to this pandemic, and we need it now," he said.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the president's remarks.
**Trump Downplays Testing Issues on Call with Governors, Despite Widespread Concerns**

In a conference call with governors on Monday, President Trump claimed that he "hasn't heard about testing being a problem" regarding the availability of coronavirus testing equipment in states across the nation. This assertion was met with skepticism by many, given the numerous reports of shortages and difficulties in obtaining testing kits from local officials and media outlets.

The topic of testing was raised by Montana Governor Steve Bullock, who expressed concerns about the challenges his state is facing in obtaining the necessary testing equipment to conduct contact tracing. Bullock warned that if the state doesn't receive the needed test kits from the CDC, they will not be able to continue testing.

Despite Bullock's warnings, President Trump seemed to downplay the issue, stating that he hasn't heard about testing being a problem in weeks. This response was surprising, given the widespread reports of shortages and difficulties in obtaining testing equipment that have been ongoing for several weeks.

The president's comments were also at odds with his own administration's efforts to distribute medical equipment to the states. While Trump has claimed that the federal government is doing a great job in providing medical supplies, including testing equipment, to the states, many governors have reported difficulties in obtaining the necessary materials.

The issue of testing has been a major point of contention throughout the coronavirus outbreak, with many experts arguing that widespread testing is crucial to tracking the spread of the virus and mitigating its impact. However, the Trump administration has been criticized for its slow response to the outbreak, including delays in making testing available to the public.

The president's comments on Monday were also seen as a continuation of his pattern of downplaying the severity of the outbreak and taking credit for the administration's response. Trump has repeatedly claimed that the administration has done a great job in responding to the outbreak, despite criticism from many that the response has been slow and inadequate.

The coronavirus outbreak has now claimed over 5,100 lives in the United States, with many more cases expected in the coming weeks. As the situation continues to unfold, the issue of testing is likely to remain a major point of contention, with many calling for more widespread testing to be made available.

In a tweet on Monday, Trump defended his administration's response to the outbreak, stating that "Massive amounts of medical supplies, even hospitals and medical centers, are being delivered directly to states and hospitals." However, many governors have reported difficulties in obtaining the necessary materials, and the president's comments on testing have only added to the confusion and controversy surrounding the issue.

As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the Trump administration will respond to the ongoing challenges posed by the coronavirus outbreak, including the issue of testing. One thing is clear, however: the president's comments on Monday have only added to the frustration and concern felt by many governors and local officials who are working to respond to the outbreak.
**"Trump Told Governors to Stop Waiting for Federal Aid and Find Own Medical Equipment as Testing Shortages Continue"**

In a conference call with governors on Monday, President Donald Trump claimed that he hadn't heard about testing being a problem, despite mounting concerns about shortages of coronavirus testing equipment in states across the nation. This assertion is at odds with the loud warnings from local officials and near-constant reporting on the issue by media outlets.

The president's comments came in response to Montana Governor Steve Bullock's plea for assistance in obtaining COVID-19 test kits. Bullock told Trump that his state was struggling to acquire the necessary testing equipment to conduct contact tracing and warned that if they didn't receive the kits from the CDC soon, they would be unable to perform testing in Montana.

"We are trying to do contact tracing, but literally we are one day away if we don't get test kits from the CDC, that we wouldn't be able to do testing in Montana," Bullock said in a recording of the call provided to national media outlets.

In response, Trump suggested that the governors should not wait for the federal government to provide them with medical equipment, including respirators, and instead find alternative sources. "I would say that they have to work on that themselves," Trump said, according to leaked audio of the call obtained by The New York Times.

The president's comments are likely to spark further criticism about the administration's response to the pandemic, which has been marred by delays and confusion. Despite the president's claims that the federal government is distributing medical equipment to states as needed, many governors have reported difficulties in obtaining necessary supplies.

As the US death toll from COVID-19 surpasses 5,100, Trump defended the national government's response to the crisis, saying on Twitter that "Massive amounts of medical supplies, even hospitals and medical centers, are being delivered directly to states and hospitals." However, he also acknowledged that some governors "have insatiable appetites & are never satisfied (politics?)".

The administration's handling of the pandemic has been the subject of intense scrutiny, with many critics accusing the president of being slow to respond to the crisis. Trump has been accused of downplaying the severity of the outbreak and of making inaccurate claims about the availability of testing and medical supplies.

On February 26, Trump predicted that the number of known infected in the country would be "down to close to zero" within a couple of days, despite warnings from health experts that the virus was likely to spread rapidly. As the outbreak has worsened, Trump has faced criticism for his administration's handling of the crisis, and his approval ratings have taken a hit.

The president's decision to resurrect the White House coronavirus task force briefings, announced on Monday, is seen as an attempt to regain control of the narrative and demonstrate his leadership on the issue. However, his comments to the governors on Monday are likely to fuel further doubts about his administration's ability to respond effectively to the pandemic.