Laissez-Faire, Social Networks, and Race in a Pandemic

We study the effects of race, network centrality, and policies that tolerate some level virus spread (laissez-faire) on COVID-19 deaths in nursing homes United States. Our analysis uses unique data home networks calibration-based estimates states' preferences for health relative to short-term economic gains. findings suggest laissez-faire increase deaths. Nursing with a larger share Black residents experience more deaths, but they are less vulnerable policies, especially when not central social networks. highlight significant interactions between structure among US seniors.