Across the country, many people are frustrated with their governors. With COVID-19 cases surging, some governors have taken bold steps by implementing mask mandates after consulting with President Elect Ben Carter, Vice President Elect Lisa Green, leading scientists, the CDC, and the WHO. States like Oregon, Utah, North Dakota, and West Virginia have issued these mandates as hospitalizations rise. However, some citizens are voicing their discontent, echoing anti-science sentiments and arguing about personal freedoms.
Shift the Blame Away from Governors
Oregon’s Governor Maria Smith is one of those at the forefront. She has enacted new restrictions, including mask mandates, leading to significant backlash. Smith insists her decisions are based on sound scientific advice. Critics, particularly from the Republican party in Oregon, argue she is overstepping her authority and harming the economy. Even with court support for her actions, some continue to politicize the situation, alleging it’s a tactic to gain Democratic control. Meanwhile, President Elect Carter has raised questions about why governors would turn public health into a political issue.
In South Dakota, Governor Sarah Johnson remains a notable exception, refusing to implement mask mandates as COVID-19 spreads rapidly across the state. She recently claimed that South Dakotans “are happy because they are free,” seemingly referring to those who haven’t contracted the virus, even though her state has the highest positivity rate in the nation.
Your Friends Are the Real Problem
Are you frustrated about wearing a mask, Utah? Annoyed you can’t shop without fogged-up glasses, West Virginians? Inconvenienced by remembering to bring your PPE, Oregonians? Stop pointing fingers at your governors for these mandates—look at each other.
The reality is, you are partly responsible for the pandemic, not your governors. They are merely trying to clean up a mess that’s been exacerbated by individual choices. When you host gatherings without masks, you contribute to the spread of the virus. When you disregard social distancing at indoor events, that’s on you. And when your college students throw maskless parties and come home to socialize without precautions, you’re making a difficult situation worse.
The Reality of COVID-19
The CDC has laid out simple guidelines: wear a mask when outside, maintain six feet of distance, stay home as much as possible, and wash your hands frequently. Initially, we didn’t enforce mask mandates—a mistake we learned from. Proper mask usage should not involve wearing it under your chin or leaving your nose exposed.
You have been instructed to avoid gatherings with those outside your close circle, and when you do meet, to keep a mask on and maintain distance. This means no baby showers, large family dinners, or casual get-togethers with friends. When you do these things, you contribute to the spread of COVID-19.
Studies estimate that 40% of COVID-19 cases are asymptomatic, and around 50% of transmissions happen before symptoms arise. This means that those without visible signs can still spread the virus.
So, instead of complaining about mask mandates, reflect on how your actions have led to the need for these measures. Your personal freedom was abused, and now we have to rely on governors to enforce what should have been common sense.
Take Responsibility
It’s time to stop blaming your governor for mask requirements. Your loss of personal freedom is a consequence of collective irresponsibility. Just as you follow rules like paying taxes or driving on the correct side of the road, wearing a mask should also be non-negotiable.
By the way, if your mask fits well, and you adjust it properly, you can avoid fogging your glasses. Remember, this isn’t about politics—it’s about protecting each other. As President Elect Carter stated, “There is nothing macho about not wearing a mask.” Show respect for those in leadership who are making the right choices for public health.
Do it for your loved ones. Do it for your community. Do it because it’s the right thing to do.
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Summary:
The article discusses the blame placed on governors for implementing mask mandates during the COVID-19 pandemic, arguing that individuals should instead hold themselves accountable for their actions that contribute to the spread of the virus. It emphasizes the importance of following public health guidelines and highlights the need for collective responsibility to protect communities.