Evers launches ad criticizing GOP over virus response

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — With coronavirus cases soaring in Wisconsin, Democratic Gov. Tony Evers has launched a television ad criticizing Republicans for inaction.

Watch the ad below:

And the Madison school district has announced it will remain all-virtual at least Jan. 22. It's the state's second-largest school district.

The number of positive coronavirus cases in Wisconsin has nearly doubled in a month, with the state setting daily records for new cases, deaths and hospitalizations this week.

A field hospital to handle overflow patients opened near Milwaukee on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Rock and Chippewa counties are among those asking people who have the virus to assist with contact tracing efforts.

Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald said in a statement Friday that Gov. Evers' new advertisement "shamelessly exploits" the pandemic and "is about as cynical as it gets."

"I again would ask that Governor [Evers] stop focusing on political messaging and demonstrate some leadership that Wisconsinites are sorely in need of right now."

Fitzgerald says the Wisconsin legislature has been waiting for Evers to use CARES Act dollars "and direct them to where they are most needed."

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