Mike Pence expected to miss Amy Coney Barrett Supreme Court confirmation vote over coronavirus fears

Mike Pence is expected to skip attending the confirmation vote of Amy Coney Barrett amid fears his presence on Capitol Hill would risk spreading coronavirus, according to reports.

Although Mr Pence tested negative on Monday, a group of Democrats urged the vice president not to preside over the chamber on Monday after five people who he works with tested positive for Covid-19.

Mr Pence’s aides confirmed to CNN and Politico on Monday that he would not preside over the confirmation, a mostly symbolic role given Republicans have the votes to confirm Ms Barrett. He is only needed to cast a tie-breaking vote if necessary.

“Vice president Pence is campaigning in Minnesota today. The VP is not planning to be at the Senate tonight unless his vote is needed,” a spokesperson said in a statement.

The confirmation vote is expected to take place on Monday evening, and Mr Pence would be back in Washington in time for the vote should he need to cast the tie-breaker.