Andrew Yang, one of New York’s top mayoral candidates who has been campaigning in person amid the pandemic, announced on Tuesday that his test was positive for the coronavirus.
“After a negative test this weekend, today I did a quick Covid test and received a positive result,” said Yang in a statement. “I am showing mild symptoms, but on the other hand, I am feeling good and in a good mood. I will quarantine it according to public health guidelines and follow my doctor’s advice. “
Perhaps more than any other candidate in this year’s contest, Mr. Yang has sought to forge a campaign campaign in person, holding several outdoor events since declaring his candidacy last month.
His approach generated enthusiasm and media attention, but even before Yang’s test was positive, the risks were clear: an employee was positive less than a week after announcing the mayor’s appointment, forcing the candidate to be quarantined.
But Mr. Yang has since returned to a robust agenda personally. He said his campaign had started the contract tracking process.
“During that time, I will continue to participate in as many virtual events as possible, in addition to working with our incredible campaign team to continue our mission to put New York back at your feet,” said Yang, 46, in the statement. “When the time is right, I hope to go back on the right path and present a positive vision for the future of our city”.
In addition to health considerations, the events provide a vivid illustration of the campaign challenges that mayoral candidates face as they struggle to stand out before the June Democratic primaries. Many worry about their ability to connect via live streams and wonder how many voters are actually reaching out with virtual events. But the health risks – for candidates, their teams and their supporters – remain real.
Scott M. Stringer, the controller of the city whose mother died of Covid-19 complications, and Maya Wiley, a former lawyer for Mayor Bill de Blasio, had to be quarantined recently, although they were generally much more cautious in getting involved in campaigning person.
Following a vigorous face-to-face agenda can also carry some political risks, especially in Democratic primaries.
Throughout the presidential campaign, Democrats drew strong contrasts with their Republican rivals on the issue of taking the virus seriously. President Biden’s team members argued that, by pursuing a lighter personal campaign schedule, they were respecting scientific and medical recommendations and offering a glimpse of how Biden would lead the country during the pandemic – in contrast to President Donald’s big ticket. J. Trump -personal rallies.
None of the Democratic mayoral candidates are holding large rallies, although Eric Adams, the president of the Brooklyn neighborhood, has faced criticism for raising funds at home.
But they face the challenge of leaving a crowded field and, at the same time, signal that they are serious about a pandemic that devastated the city.
On Twitter, Mr. Yang took the time to suggest a balm to speed up his recovery.
“In all seriousness, if you want me to feel better, donate to my campaign!” He wrote. “Then I can relax.”