Coronavirus

published : 2023-09-06

President Biden's Return to Indoor Masking Sparks Online Backlash

First lady Jill Biden tests positive for COVID-19

President Biden wearing a mask indoors while addressing the nation (taken with Canon EOS 5D Mark IV)

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre informed reporters on Tuesday about first lady Jill Biden testing positive for COVID-19 for the second time on September 5, 2023.

Jean-Pierre shared that the first lady is experiencing mild symptoms and will be staying in Delaware for the week.

President Biden, on the other hand, tested negative and has no symptoms. However, as a precautionary measure, he will be wearing masks indoors and around people, following CDC guidelines.

The news of President Biden's decision to return to indoor masking sparked criticism on social media.

Many users expressed their opposition to the possibility of mask mandates being reinstated.

First lady Jill Biden receiving a COVID-19 test (taken with Nikon Z7)

Chad Gilmartin, deputy spokesperson for House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, reminded his followers of Joe Biden's promise to 'shut down the virus.'

Cryptocurrency entrepreneur Bruce Fenton called the idea of bringing back masks 'nonsense fearmongering.'

Katie Pavlich, a Fox News contributor, claimed that masks are ineffective against COVID-19, causing lung damage and environmental pollution.

Investigative reporter Emily Miller dismissed the decision as 'nonsense fearmongering,' indicating that Biden is only wearing masks again because he was around Jill.

Despite the backlash, President Biden remains committed to following expert advice and ensuring the country is prepared for any COVID-19 challenges.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre speaking at a press briefing (taken with Sony A7 III)

In addition to wearing masks, Biden will be tested regularly and all travelers will be tested before his upcoming trip to India.

Jill Biden, who was double-vaccinated and boosted, tested positive for COVID-19 for the second time.

She is currently recovering at their family home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.