U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senator Steve Daines released the following statement following the first delivery of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine to Montana:
“Today, the first COVID-19 vaccine was delivered to Montana and administered in the U.S. This day would not have been possible without American innovation, Operation Warp Speed, and the dedication from top scientists and the Trump administration,” Daines said. “I’m proud to have secured the initial $10 billion that helped make this modern medical miracle possible, and I will continue working to ensure all Montana communities get access.”
Montana is expected to receive an estimated first dose allocation of 9,750 Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines. The second round of doses are expected to be provided to the state in a separate shipment before the second dose schedule, which is 21 days after the first.
Daines was instrumental in securing the initial $10 billion for the research, development, manufacturing and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutics under Operation Warp Speed (OWS) – with top researchers, scientists and administration officials touting the Senator’s work.
On March 22nd, the Billings Gazette reported: Daines Proposes $10 Billion to Pay for Early Manufacture of Coronavirus Drugs. Soon after, President Trump praised Senator Daines for his work securing this funding and for prioritizing vaccine development saying, “He’s been right at the forefront.”
Just last week, Daines was asked to join the COVID-19 Vaccine Summit at the White House because of his work on COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutic drugs under OWS.
Daines and his wife are also participating in Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine trial, where they’re leading by example for Montanans and the American people wondering if they should get the vaccine.
Background:
A second COVID-19 vaccine, made by Moderna, is awaiting approval by the FDA. On December 17, 2020, the FDA will be meeting to discuss emergency use authorization of Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine.