Biden to receive coronavirus vaccine in public on Monday

Vice President-elect Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff will receive the shot the following week to avoid a situation in which all of the leaders of the incoming administration experience side effects at the same time.

“It’s based on a recommendation by our medical and health experts,” Psaki said.

Biden has in recent days expressed a strong desire to take the vaccine both to ensure continuity of government and set a good example for the general public. But he does not want to create the impression that he’s cutting the line in front of health workers, nursing home residents and other vulnerable groups.

Vice President Mike Pence, who received the vaccine Friday morning alongside Second Lady Karen Pence and Surgeon General Jerome Adams, said he hoped the televised event will help calm distrust of a vaccine produced in record time.

“We wanted to step forward and take this vaccine to assure the American people that while we cut red tape, we cut no corners,” he said.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) both received the vaccine Friday, as well, sharing photos of themselves with congressional medical staff on Twitter.

“Just received the safe, effective COVID vaccine following continuity-of-government protocols. Vaccines are how we beat this virus,” McConnell tweeted. “Now back to continue fighting for a rescue package including a lot more money for distribution so more Americans can receive it as fast as possible.”