Cuomo Calls on Trump to ‘Lead by Example’ and ‘Put a Mask on It’

As the country sees an increase in new coronavirus cases, some are suggesting there should be a mandate to wear face masks to help stop the spread of the virus.

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) says President Donald Trump should set an example for Americans and wear a face mask in public. 

“Let the President lead by example and let the President put a mask on it because we know it works,” Cuomo said during his press conference on Monday.

Along with wearing a mask, Cuomo said Trump should sign an executive order to require Americans to wear masks, “Sign an executive order directing everyone to wear a mask. How we’re at this point as a nation, and we still haven’t done the simple, easy, minimal step of saying you must wear a mask when you’re in public?”

“The President doesn’t have to pass a piece of legislation, doesn’t have to call the Congress, just sign an executive order saying wear a mask,” he added.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that Americans wear face coverings to help stop the spread of the virus. However, there is not a national mandate to do so.

Instead, states and local governments have adopted mask-wearing mandates.

Despite the guidance to wear a face mask, Trump has repeatedly received criticism for not wearing a face mask in public, as IJR reported.

During an interview on ABC News’ “This Week” on Sunday, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) voiced support for a mask-wearing order and blasted Trump for not wearing a mask in public.

“Definitely long overdue for that,” Pelosi said, adding, “And my understanding that the Centers for Disease Control has recommended the use of masks but not required it because they don’t want to offend the president.”

She continued, “The president should be an example. Real men wear masks. Be an example to the country and wear the mask. It’s not about protecting yourself. It’s about protecting others and their families.”

However, Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) says Americans should be able to make the decision themselves, as IJR reported. 

Meanwhile, former Vice President Joe Biden (D) said, “The one thing we do know is that these masks make a gigantic difference. I would insist that everybody in public be wearing that masks.”

He added that if he won the election he would “do everything possible” to require Americans to wear masks.