Trump lied, people died
It is no secret that the United States has failed in its response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The challenges surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic have not been unique to the United States, but our response has. The actions of our country and federal government have been in blatant ignorance of the advice of scientists and medical professionals.
With the recent news that Pres. Donald Trump and top members in the White House and Congress have all tested positive for COVID-19, it is glaringly clear that America’s response has been insufficient and inadequate. While the news of his contraction is a national tragedy, his positive test does not give him immunity from fair and valid criticism over his administration’s handling of the coronavirus.
The White House’s relaxed treatment of mask-wearing and social distancing is especially evident in Trump’s performance at the presidential debate, where he mocked Biden for doing both. It’s hard not to see the irony when just two days later, Trump tests positive for COVID-19.
Trump’s consistent ignorance of CDC guidelines about social distancing and his criticisms on the efficacy of mask wearing have validated the harmful and callous actions of Americans who continue to flaunt them under his leadership. On Sept. 26, Trump hosted an event in the White House Rose Garden where he nominated judge Amy Coney Barrett for the Supreme Court. Photographs released saw most attendees without masks and some even hugging one another. Already, Sen. Mike Lee, Sen. Thom Thillis, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and others that attended the Rose Garden event have tested positive.
Other world leaders such as New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and President of Taiwan Tsai Ing-wen, have responded with humility and empathy, prioritizing safety and transparency in the name of making the tough but necessary decisions for their citizens. They took informed proactive action to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and they have been notably prominent advocates of mask-wearing and social distancing, following scientific recommendation. It is telling that while they have managed to largely overcome the struggles of the pandemic, Trump has continued to do what he does best: bluster and fumble his way through a national crisis.
