Friends —

Today, I filed my required ballot-qualifying petitions with 33,279 signatures for my U.S. Senate re-election campaign. I am extremely thankful to the dedicated staff and volunteers who worked hard to get the campaign to this place.

You may have seen that I planned a campaign announcement tour across the Commonwealth for next week. I want to let you know that we have made the decision to postpone this tour in an abundance of caution for public health.

I am proud to file for re-election today, but my number one concern is the health and safety of my constituents. I have decided to postpone my announcement tour across the Commonwealth to be where Virginians need me most, serving them in my capacity as their United States Senator.

In the meantime, we need everyone to pitch in to slow and stop the spread of coronavirus — it’s important that everyone has access to the resources they need to keep themselves and their communities healthy and safe. Each of us has a critical role to play in slowing and stopping the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus), whether or not we’re considered at high risk ourselves.

Here are some key precautions that health professionals recommend taking at this time:

• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. (That’s two rounds of “Happy Birthday.”) Avoid touching your face, clean high-traffic surfaces in your home and workspace often, and refrain from sharing beverages or personal items.
• Avoid large public gatherings, especially if you are elderly or living with a compromised immune system. Social distancing is critical not only to avoid getting sick yourself, but to ensure that you do not unknowingly pass the virus to others.
• Remain at home and call your doctor if you are sick. The Virginia state government is advising Virginia residents to contact their local health department if they are exhibiting any symptoms of coronavirus including fever, cough, or trouble breathing.

During times like this, it’s critical that everyone stays informed. You can visit the CDC’s website for the latest coronavirus news and all that you need to know: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

And for the latest local updates, please see the Virginia Department of Health’s COVID-19 guideline page.

Thank you for your vigilance.

— Mark Warner