Biden blasts Texas’ decision to lift COVID-19 mask mandate as ‘Neanderthal thinking’
President Biden blasted Texas Gov. Greg Abbott for lifting the state’s COVID-19 mask mandate during brief remarks at the White House on Wednesday.
“The last thing we need is Neanderthal thinking that in the meantime everything is fine, take off your mask,” Biden said. “Forget it. It still matters.”
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves also announced he’s lifting that state’s mask mandate.
Biden reiterated his Tuesday announcement that by the end of May there should be enough available coronavirus vaccines for every adult in the county.
“We are on the cusp of being able to fundamentally change the nature of this disease because of the way we are able to get vaccines in people’s arms,” he said. “I think it’s a big mistake. I hope everybody has realized by now that these masks make a difference.”
More than 511,000 Americans had died from COVID-19 as of Tuesday.
Biden warned that “we’re going to lose thousands more” if safety protocols are lifted too early.
“It’s critical, critical, critical, critical that they follow the science,” he said. “Wash your hands [with] hot water. Do it frequently. Wear a mask and stay socially distanced.”
Abbott announced Tuesday that he was lifting the state’s mask requirement and allowing businesses to reopen to 100% capacity.
Abbott responded to the criticism through a released statement from his office later on Wednesday.
“The Governor was clear in telling Texans that COVID hasn’t ended, and that all Texans should follow medical advice and safe practices to continue containing COVID,” the statement said. “The fact is, Texas now has the tools and knowledge to combat COVID while also allowing Texans and small businesses to make their own decisions.”
“It is clear from the recoveries, the vaccinations, the reduced hospitalizations, and the safe practices that Texans are using, that state mandates are no longer needed,” the statement continues. “We must now do more to restore livelihoods and normalcy for Texans. The Governor’s focus has been, and always will be, protecting the lives and livelihoods of Texans.”
This story was originally published March 3, 2021 at 2:06 PM.
