Chuck Grassley tests positive for coronavirus

Grassley, the Senate’s president pro tempore, is third in the line of succession for the presidency, after Vice President Mike Pence and Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Grassley joins Sens. Mike Lee (R-Utah), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.) in testing positive for the virus. Meanwhile, Sens. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and Bob Casey (D-Pa.) have tested positive for coronavirus antibodies.

Grassley’s absence due to the coronavirus will break his record vote streak of nearly 9,000 uninterrupted votes since 1993. The Iowa Republican’s positive test comes as cases continue to reach record levels across the country.

The U.S. Capitol has yet to implement a bicameral testing regime. Earlier this month, Pelosi (D-Calif.) announced a dramatic expansion of Covid testing for lawmakers. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has not indicated whether the Senate will implement a similar effort.

Grassley has emphasized the importance of wearing a mask and the need for social distancing, including in a speech Monday.

“Although promising vaccines for the coronavirus is more important than ever, it is important to stop the surge,” he said. “I ask every Iowan to continue to do their part to keep their family and neighbors safe. Wash your hands, limit your activity outside your household, social distance, wear a mask.”