Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-Fairhope) on Thursday called for an immediate suspension of all travel from China to the United States due to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak.

In a statement, Byrne said, “The Chinese coronavirus is a serious global health threat whose severity and complexity is not yet understood. Unfortunately, the danger posed to Americans is made worse by a Chinese government that cannot be trusted regarding its efforts to contain the virus.”

“Because of the severity of this threat, I am calling for an immediate suspension of all travel from China to the United States until officials at the Departments of State, Health & Human Services, and Homeland Security can confirm it is safe to resume,” he concluded. “We must always put the health and safety of the American people first.”

Byrne, also a Republican Senate candidate in Alabama, is considered one of Congress’ foremost hawks on China. He is a member of the House Armed Services Committee.

Sean Ross is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn