Senators Ted Cruz and Kirsten Gillibrand launch “#CombatCOVID19” challenge
SAN ANTONIO (KTSA News) — Two lawmakers from opposite sides of the aisle have teamed up to launch a nationwide effort to challenge Americans to do something positive for their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Senator Ted Cruz kicked things off by posting a video on Twitter explaining why he and New York Democratic Senator Kirsten Gillibrand are starting #CombatCOVID19.
“In the darkest hours, that’s when the greatest strengths of America comes out and we have people helping people.”
In the video, Cruz, wearing a facemask and rubber gloves, is standing in front of the Houston Police Officer’s Union where he delivered coffee and breakfast tacos.
” These are men and women who are out on the front lines everyday. They’re risking their lives, the first responders, they’re there to keep us safe.”
Cruz says the delivery was his way of saying thanks, then challenged others to take similar action in their communities.
“I’m challenging Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, I’m challenging Rick Perry and I’m challenging Mattress Mack.”
Cruz invited others to post videos of their generous acts then challenge three others to come up with their own.
America is strongest when we’re united. That’s why @SenGillibrand & I are launching the #CombatCOVID19Challenge – to encourage Americans to support each other as we all #CombatCOVID19.
I’m challenging @GovernorPerry, @SylvesterTurner, @MattressMack to join us within 48 hours. pic.twitter.com/y2ejT8khbf
— Senator Ted Cruz (@SenTedCruz) April 13, 2020
Senator Gillibrand tweeted her own video. She sent pizza to front line medical staff at a hospital in Albany, New York.
Acts of kindness and compassion are more important than ever, especially for essential workers on the front lines of this crisis. So today I’m excited to launch the #CombatCOVID19Challenge to encourage more people to support their communities at this critical time. Learn more: pic.twitter.com/b69a4217aU
— Kirsten Gillibrand (@SenGillibrand) April 13, 2020
