At this point in 2020, just about everyone has made up their minds when it comes to face masks.
Some Americans love the masks while others loathe them; some people wear masks only at work, while others refuse to don face coverings at all. The mask debate also remains linked to partisanship; it is a known fact that individuals on the left are likelier to favor compulsory mask mandates and punishments for those who don’t comply.
In Florida, Democrat mayors are all-too-happy to pass mask mandates for residents; however, the enforcement of these mandates is tricky, thanks to Ron DeSantis, Florida’s Republican governor.
As Breitbart News explains, DeSantis recently lengthened a decree that blocks local governments from upholding mask mandates.
No Mask Enforcement in Florida
DeSantis’ order blocking Florida from enforcing mask mandates arrived amid news that no more lockdowns will be happening in the state either. The Florida governor continues to stand by his position asserting that punishing people for noncompliance with social distancing guidelines and the like isn’t the best way forward.
As we get more good news regarding therapies and vaccines, Florida is working hard to make sure that we serve our state’s most vulnerable, in terms of both current protections and upcoming vaccinations. pic.twitter.com/rUOSctLXhA
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) November 25, 2020
Governor DeSantis’ extended order comes as liberal mayors across Florida claim that mask mandates are necessary to halt reported increases in COVID-19 cases. This particular theory continues to come under fire, especially since states with mask mandates in place are not exempt from new case surges.
What Americans Think of Florida’s Decision
Outlooks on the decision of the Florida governor are largely split. While both Republicans and Democrats alike have donned face masks, there are some clear differences.
GOP supporters are less likely to back mask mandates, hence a more positive outlook towards the Florida governor’s extension of his anti-mask enforcement order. Democrats, on the other hand, continue to heavily criticize Governor DeSantis; since the inception of mask-wearing, Democrats have openly pushed and rallied behind mask mandates.
This month has brought promising news regarding our efforts to combat COVID-19. The State of Florida is prepared to work with the federal government to distribute vaccines to Florida hospitals in the upcoming weeks, as well as new therapeutic treatments for those most vulnerable. pic.twitter.com/TcVBKrKlEH
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) November 19, 2020
The leadership of the Florida GOP governor marks a notable contrast from Democrats governing blue states. While DeSantis is largely pushing for his residents to make their own health decisions, places like New York City are issuing local COVID-19 checkpoints.
Differences in perceptions of coronavirus mitigation strategies have greatly deepened divides between Republicans and Democrats over the course of 2020.
Do you agree with the Florida governor’s block on mask enforcement in the state? Let us know what you believe and why you believe it down below in the comments section.
