Massachusetts will distribute COVID-19 vaccine in multiple phases, with front line workers, vulnerable populations and the elderly at the front of the line when, and only when, a safe vaccine is available.
Gov. Charlie Baker said Tuesday he expects an initially limited supply of any vaccine when one is first approved and will distribute doses to the neediest first, with other essential workers coming after those medically vulnerable and health care personnel.
"The plan lays out initial steps in our state's planning for a robust, comprehensive and equitable vaccine distribution system once one or more vaccines are available here in the Commonwealth," Baker said Tuesday at a press conference in Revere.
Baker said state medical experts "would never go forward with this unless we had a high degree of confidence" that any vaccine is safe and effective.
"That's going to be a function both of federal data, but also the review of our folks here in Massachusetts on the advisory committee would put to it as well," Baker said.
Baker was asked if he would seek a meeting with Vice President Mike Pence, the head of the federal coronavirus response, while he's campaigning in New Hampshire this week. Baker said he wouldn't reach out to Pence directly, but that fellow Republican Gov. Chris Sununu, who's suing Massachusetts over a tax dispute, might be able to connect him to the V.P.
"Maybe I'll reach out to my friend Chris Sununu who, when he's not busy suing me, may be interested in having a conversation about some things that he could raise on our behalf with the vice president," Baker said.
Baker also responded to a Politico report stating that he is on a short list of Republicans being considered for cabinet positions in a possible Joe Biden administration, should the Democratic nominee defeat President Trump in November. Baker said he and Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito pledged to serve out their terms, which end in 2023.
"I intend to do that. And you're gonna be stuck with me for at least the next two years, anyway. I'm flattered to be considered, but I like the job I have," Baker said.
