Democratic presidential hopeful Bernie Sanders has cancelled a rally set for Cleveland, Ohio Tuesday as coronavirus becomes more of a concern for the United States.
The cancellation is the first of its kind, with all other rallies and events still penned to continue.
In a statement, Sanders' campaign communications director Mike Casca said "Out of concern for public health and safety, we are canceling tonight’s rally in Cleveland... We are heeding the public warnings from Ohio state officials, who have communicated concern about holding large, indoor events during the coronavirus outbreak. Sen. Sanders would like to express his regret to the thousands of Ohioans who had planned to attend the event tonight.”
Future rallies will be evaluated on "a case by case basis."
The cancellation could prove costly, as coronavirus fears continue to be something that major parties will continue to account for. Six states have presidential nomination contests Tuesday, as the Vermont senator attempts to take the lead from former Vice President Joe Biden.
The Ohio vote is to be held next week.
