PBS Newshour Season 2020 Episode 55 March 13, 2020

In the fifty-fifth episode of the 2020 season of PBS Newshour, the team covers the evolving COVID-19 pandemic and its increasing impacts on the world. Hosted by Judy Woodruff, the show features various reports from around the world, including updates on the outbreak in Italy, the U.S. response, and the economic repercussions of the virus.

The episode begins with a report from John Yang detailing the latest developments in the U.S. response to the pandemic, including the Trump administration's travel ban on most of Europe and the impact on the stock market. His report also addresses the challenges faced by healthcare workers in the U.S. due to a lack of testing kits and personal protective equipment.

Next, the show turns to coverage of the outbreak in Italy, where the death toll has risen sharply in recent weeks. Special correspondent Christopher Livesay reports from Rome on the strict measures being taken by the government to try and contain the virus, including the nationwide lockdown. He speaks with locals who are struggling to adapt to the sudden changes in their daily lives.

PBS Newshour also covers the global impact of the virus, including its devastating effects on the travel industry. Economics correspondent Paul Solman speaks with travel experts about how the pandemic has affected the sector, including the cancellation of flights and loss of jobs.

Additionally, the show highlights the anxiety and uncertainty felt by workers in various industries, such as restaurants and universities, as closures and cancellations continue to occur. The team also includes a report on the impact of the virus on small businesses in the U.S. and the measures being taken by the government to try and help them stay afloat.

Throughout the program, Woodruff interviews various experts and policymakers to provide analysis and context on the latest developments related to COVID-19. She speaks with Dr. Ashish Jha, the director of the Harvard Global Health Institute, about the severity of the outbreak and the U.S. response. She also interviews Rep. Pramila Jayapal of Washington state about the House's passage of an emergency aid bill to combat the virus's effects on individuals and businesses.

In addition to coverage of COVID-19, the show includes several other segments on a range of topics. For example, Jeffrey Brown speaks with art critic Sebastian Smee about the exhibition "Toulouse-Lautrec and the Stars of Paris" at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Hari Sreenivasan reports on the upcoming census and its implications for political representation and funding allocation.

Overall, PBS Newshour season 2020 episode 55 offers thorough coverage of the evolving pandemic and its widespread impacts, while also including a variety of other segments to provide viewers with a comprehensive understanding of the news of that day.