Trump and Fauci Weigh in on Gov. DeSantis Mulling Reopening Schools

President Donald Trump and Dr. Anthony Fauci are expressing concern about Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) mulling over the idea of reopening schools in the near future.

During the White House Coronavirus Task Force briefing on Friday, the president was asked about DeSantis’ previous comments. He applauded DeSantis for his leadership but said he would have to “look at the numbers.”

While he does prefer to leave state decisions to governors, the president also noted there is a possibility he could overrule DeSantis’ order if he ultimately does decide to reopen schools prematurely.

“He’s doing a great job as governor,” Trump said. “👤Ron Desantis, I had read where he’s thinking about opening up the schools earlier than the date — the end of the month. I’d have to look at the numbers, but, again, I like to allow governors to make decisions without overruling them.”

Trump also noted that if he ultimately disagreed with DeSantis’ decision, he could overrule him. Then, he gave Fauci the floor to offer his expertise.

See Trump and Fauci’s remarks below (starting at 1:12:30):

Dr. Fauci, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases director, — who noted that he was not “specifically speaking about Florida” — bluntly answered the reporter’s question, clarifying American statistics for the coronavirus.