Recent Press Releases

Thune: Coordination Between All Modes of Transportation is Critical to Efficient Vaccine Distribution

“Distribution of such a precious commodity will depend on coordination between all modes of transportation, and I am very interested in today’s discussion of how a vaccine will be distributed and administered across the United States in a rapid and safe manner, especially in rural states like South

December 10, 2020

Washington — 

U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today participated in a hearing titled “The Logistics of Transporting a COVID-19 Vaccine” to examine transportation and logistics plans for ensuring COVID-19 vaccines are delivered across the country. During the hearing, Thune questioned a panel of experts on how the vaccinations will be distributed, particularly in rural states like South Dakota.

Thune’s remarks (as prepared for delivery):

“In the midst of such a challenging year, the development of several effective vaccines at such an accelerated pace is a testament to the power and ingenuity of American scientific innovation, as well as the importance of collaboration between the private sector and the federal government. 

“This partnership, as well as the partnerships between the federal and state governments, will be critical to the safe distribution and administration of vaccines in the coming weeks and months, a major step toward bringing this pandemic to an end, reviving America’s economy, and returning to normal life. 

“Distribution of such a precious commodity will depend on coordination between all modes of transportation, and I am very interested in today’s discussion of how a vaccine will be distributed and administered across the United States in a rapid and safe manner, especially in rural states like South Dakota.”