Now Is the Worst Possible Time to Reopen America

Guys I’m going stir crazy. I know this quarantine business is hard, but social distancing is working. Ever since states have put stay at home orders into place, we’ve started to see a positive shift in new cases of COVID-19. It’s tough to be cooped up but if it’s a matter of my safety, I’ll stay home as long as it takes.  

There are multiple reasons why I’m staying home: my family, my safety, and the safety of everyone around me. You think I don’t miss enjoying life outside of my house? Of course I do! I would be on a beach right now if it were safe. I know there are so many of us who are struggling in quarantine, but refuse to give up until we beat this virus. Sadly, we would already be back to normal if it weren’t for early missteps from Donald Trump. 

I’m not saying that our economy isn’t hurting. Unemployment is at an all time high and I know that America needs to get back to work. But our economy will not recover until we have a handle on this virus.  Additionally, we cannot safely return to work until we have enough tests needed to stop social distancing. We aren’t there yet and we need to stay at home until we are. Instead of working with governors to get tests for everyone, Trump is in full denial mode. It’s shameful, reckless, and not at all surprising from this president. 

This week several fringe Trump supporters decided to take to the streets, and protest so-called government overreach for requiring them to stay home for their own safety. Nope, you read that right. When you come across this blog ten years from now, you’ll be reminded that while scientists and medical doctors have all urged us to stay home to stop the spread of COVID-19, small fringe groups across the country decided that they want the freedom to golf instead of protection from a deadly pandemic. The scariest part? It’s working.

There is nothing new about these protests. The same groups that fueled the Tea Party movement are behind these “liberate” movements, claiming to want freedom and control over their own bodies. But what they’re really asking for is the right to endanger the lives of their fellow citizens. They’re willing to risk trading the lives of our healthcare workers for their haircuts. The worst part is that our president is cheering them on. Could he have ulterior motives for wanting the government to reopen? Well, he is up for reelection this year, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. 

I know that the media is covering the protests out of sheer shock value, but here is what they should be asking the public: 

  • Why are you staying home?
  • What would you say to Donald Trump if you could speak to him directly?
  • What would you say to workers on the frontlines?
  • If you’re an essential worker, what safety precautions is your employer taking to stop the spread of COVID-19?

We’re here to step in and ask the questions the media refuses to ask. Join our video campaign to hold the president accountable by telling us your pandemic story. Whether you’re working on the frontlines or staying home to protect those of us who still have to work, we want to hear from you!