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August 17, 2021 — Congressman Bobby Scott announced today that he is cancelling this year’s annual Labor Day Cookout as a result of surging coronavirus infections due to the delta variant.

 “My team and I hoped that we would be able to host this year’s Labor Day cookout again in person after last year’s virtual event,” stated Rep. Scott. “Our annual cookout has become an important place for candidates running for office locally and statewide to meet and talk with voters and other elected officials. Unfortunately, based on the advice of medical experts who pointed to higher infection rates and stagnant vaccinations, we’ve decided to cancel this year’s cookout."

 Congressman Scott has held his annual Labor Day cookout each year since his 1977 campaign for the Virginia House of Delegates. The first cookout was a way to thank volunteers and the community for their support for his campaign. While its purpose has remained the same, the cookout has become the premier political event in Hampton Roads, serving as the unofficial kickoff for the general election campaign each year. In 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Congressman Scott held his cookout virtually and featured appearances from President Biden, Governor Northam, Senators Warner and Kaine, and other elected officials.

 Congressman Scott continued:  “I encourage those who have not yet been vaccinated to get the vaccine as soon as possible. We can limit the spread of COVID-19 and defeat this pandemic if we increase the rate of vaccinations and follow the latest CDC guidance.  COVID-19 vaccines are safe and provide significant protection against serious infection, hospitalization, and death.  I was vaccinated earlier this year, and I hope all who are eligible do the same.”

 “I am hopeful that our nation can come together and follow the advice of public health officials to get through this pandemic so we can celebrate Labor Day in person in 2022,” concluded Rep. Scott. 

Virginians interested in getting vaccinated or learning more about COVID-19 vaccines can visit: vaccinate.virginia.gov.