Newsy Exclusive: Smithfield Workers React To Order Keeping Plants Open

The transcript discusses the concerns of workers at the Smithfield Tarheel plant in North Carolina regarding President Trump's executive order to keep meatpacking plants open during the COVID-19 pandemic. Workers express fears for their safety and criticize the lack of transparency about COVID-19 cases at the plant. The CDC and OSHA have issued guidelines, but they are voluntary. Some changes have been made at the plant, but employees remain worried about their safety and the company's transparency. The company supports Trump's order and praises its employees' efforts.

What is the main concern of North Carolina workers regarding President Trump's decision?

• The increase in food production

• The decision to close all food plants

• The lack of safety measures in place

• The decision to keep food plants open

What do workers at the Smithfield plant demand from President Trump?

• A reduction in working hours

• A mandatory shutdown and testing

• More vacation days

• An increase in wages

According to the transcript, what is the status of COVID-19 transmission through food?

• There is no evidence of transmission

• It is a minor transmission route

• It is the primary transmission route

• It is a confirmed transmission route

What changes were made inside the Smithfield plant to address COVID-19 concerns?

• Reduction in employee wages

• Increase in production hours

• Closure of the entire plant

• Installation of plexiglass dividers

How did the company respond to the allegations of concealing COVID-19 cases?

• By denying all allegations

• By expressing support for President Trump's order

• By increasing employee wages

• By agreeing to shut down the plant