Wisconsin Rep. Gwen Moore tests positive for COVID-19

Rep. Gwen Moore (D-Wis.) announced Monday that she had tested positive for the coronavirus.

“I tested positive for COVID-19. I am following guidance from my doctor and am isolating from others. I am thankful to be feeling well. And I do not foresee this disrupting my work for Wisconsin’s Fourth,” Moore tweeted.

I encourage every person to continue taking measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by wearing a mask, washing your hands, and practicing social distancing.

— Rep. Gwen Moore (@RepGwenMoore) December 28, 2020

The Democratic congresswoman added, “I encourage every person to continue taking measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by wearing a mask, washing your hands, and practicing social distancing.”

Moore, 69, has not attended any congressional proceedings in person since May 26, writing a proxy letter that designated Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va.) as her proxy.

Due to her age, Moore is at a higher risk of experiencing severe symptoms of the coronavirus, though she reported she was feeling well.

The Hill has reached out to Moore’s office for comment.

Fellow Wisconsin Rep. LaKeshia Myers (D) tweeted out a message of support for Moore, writing, “My prayers are with you Congresswoman. You are indeed a survivor.”

My prayers are with you Congresswoman. You are indeed a survivor.

— Rep. LaKeshia Myers (@RepMyers) December 28, 2020

Moore joins Democratic Rep. Rick Larsen (Wash.), who shared last week that he had also tested positive for the coronavirus, and nearly 40 other House lawmakers who have tested positive for the coronavirus since the pandemic began.

Members of Congress were given access to the coronavirus vaccine as part of a “continuity of governance” plan that seeks to ensure the government is able to continue functioning in a broad range of different situations.

However, many government officials, including Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), have deferred receiving the vaccine, stating that they believe other groups of people should receive the vaccine before politicians do. It is unclear if Moore has received a dose of a coronavirus vaccine yet.