Feds hired NY health czar who defended deadly nursing-home order

At the onset of the pandemic, Howard Zucker, the then New York State Health Commissioner, stood by the state's disputed COVID-19 nursing home directive.

Excerpt: Three years ago, the Cuomo-Hochul administration faced scrutiny over their nursing-home policy, a policy which had grave consequences, especially during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The March 25, 2020, nursing-home order became controversial after it led to thousands of deaths of nursing home residents. Central to the controversy was the state Health Commissioner, Howard Zucker, who actively defended this policy and was criticized for obscuring the actual number of deaths tied to nursing homes. Despite his questionable handling of this crisis, Zucker was promoted to a senior position in the Biden Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The article highlights that, even after three years, New Yorkers are still seeking justice and accountability. The piece suggests a need for a thorough investigation into Zucker's and the administration's actions during this tumultuous period, with many believing that Howard Zucker should face more severe consequences for his role in the tragedy.

Author: Lee Zeldin, former Representative for Suffolk County.