COVID-19: How pandemic is impacting U.S. elections

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Poll worker in Florida on Tuesday's primary.Poll worker in Florida on Tuesday’s primary. (PHOTO: AP)

GUEST: Steve Chaggaris, an independent journalist and political analyst based in Washington, DC.

Under the shadow of a growing pandemic, U.S. presidential primaries were held Tuesday in Arizona, Florida, and Illinois.

Alongside headlines of former Vice-President Joe Biden’s sweeping victory – there were also questions about whether holding in person primaries are safe during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Amid heightened fear and public restrictions, many ask if states – and districts – have alternatives ready to go? Who might be disenfranchised? Who will stay home if forced to choose between their health – and their part in the democratic process?

And, how has COVID-19 transformed the politics of this election? Will it change how voters consider issues, like Medicare for All and economic justice? How will President Trump be judged at the ballot box if this crisis continues into the Fall?

Joining us to discuss the effect COVID-19 is having on U.S. elections is Steve Chaggaris. He’s an independent journalist and political analyst based in Washington, DC..