New Hampshire House Speaker Dies From Covid A Week After Swearing In

Topline

Among more than 3,000 Americans who died on Wednesday from Covid-19 was New Hampshire’s newly sworn in House Speaker Dick Hinch, who was killed by the virus after a week in office, according to the results of an autopsy released Thursday.

Key Facts

Crucial Quote 

New Hampshire’s Gov. Chris Sununu (R), who described Hinch as a “close friend” and a “respected public servant,” ordered flags to be lowered to half-mast in his honor. “His loss will be greatly felt by the people of this state, and I ask Granite Staters to  join me in praying for his family during this incredibly difficult time,” said Sununu in a public statement. 

Key Background 

Hinch was present at the swearing in ceremony last week, which was held outdoors at the University of New Hampshire. More than a quarter of New Hampshire’s 400 House members opted to skip the event after learning that several GOP lawmakers had tested positive for Covid-19 after an indoor GOP caucus meeting on Nov. 20. Nonetheless, it’s uncertain when and where Hinch contracted the virus. Coronavirus cases, hospitalizations and deaths have been surging across the U.S. over the past two months. Wednesday was the deadliest day of the pandemic to date, with over 3,124 Americans dying across the nation and over 221,000 becoming infected with the virus. 

Further Reading 

“More People Died From Covid-19 In The U.S. On Wednesday Than During 9/11 Attacks” (Forbes)

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