Kentucky’s senior senator says it’s time for the United States to consider closing off flights from regions in West Africa affected by Ebola.
In an interview with cn|2 Pure Politics Wednesday, Sen. Mitch McConnell said he backs President Obama’s decision to send 3,000 troops to the worst hit countries, but he’s less supportive of efforts to keep general air travel open.
"I’m not an expert on this, but it strikes me that it would be a good idea to discontinue flights from that part of the world," he said.
McConnell said he’s not spoken with the White House or the FAA about his concerns.
About 700 troops based in Fort Campbell are on their way to Liberia this month. McConnell said he’s been briefed on the precautions being taken to ensure the soldiers’ safety.