AEI and Johns Hopkins Attempt a Covid Redo

 A recent event co-hosted by American Enterprise Institute (AEI) and Johns Hopkins University reviewed their responses to the Covid-19 pandemic. The discussion revolved around a new book criticizing lockdowns, highlighting shortcomings in pandemic policies.

1. Event Context:

• The event took place on November 6, 2025, centered around the book "In Covid's Wake," authored by Frances Lee and Stephen Macedo.

• Both institutions significantly influenced early pandemic policies.

2. Pandemic Preparedness:

• Prior to the pandemic, in October 2019, Johns Hopkins participated in a simulation called Event 201 concerning pandemic responses, focusing on managing misinformation.

3. Lockdown and Policy Critique:

• Critics at the event acknowledged that lockdowns led to significant economic and social costs without demonstrating clear benefits in controlling the virus.

• Extended school closures were particularly condemned as many European nations reopened schools without adverse effects.

4. Limitations in Understanding:

• While some criticisms were voiced regarding the previous approaches, there was a lack of substantial discussion regarding biological data, vaccine mandates, or early treatment options.

5. Vaccine Discussion:

• The panel asserted that the Covid vaccines were a success, a claim not thoroughly debated. Some evidence suggests a spike in adverse health outcomes post-vaccination.

6. Health Outcomes:

• Data indicated increased mortality rates following vaccine introduction. This includes spikes in disability claims and acute health issues among vaccinated individuals.

• Studies from various countries report that vaccinated individuals faced significantly higher mortality rates compared to the unvaccinated.

7. Calls for Accountability:

• Critique participants expressed frustration over a lack of consequences for public health decisions made during the pandemic. There's an acknowledgment of a need for deeper reflections on past failures.

The event highlighted the need for critical evaluation of Covid policy decisions and their impacts, especially regarding lockdowns and vaccine efficacy. It reveals ongoing tensions in public health discussions and a demand for accountability and further research into the health implications of pandemic responses. While some reflections were made, more accountability and comprehensive critiques are essential for understanding the decisions that shaped the pandemic response.

https://brownstone.org/articles/aei-and-johns-hopkins-attempt-a-covid-redo/