U.S. NOTIFIES U.N. OF WITHDRAWAL NEXT YEAR FROM WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION

WASHINGTON — The Trump administration has formally notified the United Nations of its withdrawal from the World Health Organization, although the pullout won’t take effect until next year, meaning it could be rescinded under a new administration or if circumstances change. Former Vice President Joe Biden, the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, said he would reverse the decision on his first day in office if elected.

The withdrawal notification makes good on President Donald Trump’s vow in late May to terminate U.S. participation in the WHO, which he has harshly criticized for its response to the coronavirus pandemic and accused of bowing to Chinese influence.

The move was immediately assailed by health officials and critics of the administration, including numerous Democrats who said it would cost the U.S. influence in the global arena.

Biden has said he supports the WHO and pledged Tuesday to rejoin it if he defeats Trump in November. “Americans are safer when America is engaged in strengthening global health. On my first day as president, I will rejoin the WHO and restore our leadership on the world stage,” he said.

The withdrawal notice will take effect on July 6, 2021, the State Department and the United Nations said on Tuesday.

At least 8 Mississippi lawmakers test positive for COVID-19

At least eight state of Mississippi lawmakers have tested positive for the coronavirus after working several weeks in a Capitol where many people stood or sat close together and did not wear masks.

Brazil president tests positive

Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro said Tuesday he has tested positive for the coronavirus after months of downplaying its severity. The 65-year-old said he is taking hydroxychloroquine, the anti-malaria drug that he, like President Donald Trump, has been promoting though it has not been proven effective against COVID-19.

“I’m, well, normal. I even want to take a walk around here,” Bolsonaro said.