Former President Donald Trump is accusing Democrats of causing vaccine hesitancy among some Americans.
During a Fox News interview, he told the outlet Americans were more interested in getting vaccinated when he was in office.
“If you remember, when I was president, there were literally lines of people wanting to take it,” Trump said. “Now, you have a different situation, and it’s very bad.”
He continued, “Of course, they famously said, if Trump came up with it, I’ll never take it.”
Trump argued Democrats “disparaged the vaccine, and now they wonder why people aren’t wanting to take it? It’s a disgrace.”
The former president mentioned how quickly some vaccines were approved by the FDA.
“Look, it was one of my greatest achievements doing it in less than nine months instead of five years, or maybe never,” Trump said. “We saved millions of people all over the world.”
He added, “They don’t trust this president, and that’s why they’re not taking it.”
Trump reacted to President Joe Biden ‘s order requiring companies with 100 or more employees to mandate their workers to get the vaccine. His mandate also requires federal employees to get vaccinated.
“It shouldn’t be necessary,” Trump explained.
While delivering remarks Thursday, Biden expressed his frustration with Americans who have not received the vaccine.
“Many of us are frustrated with the nearly 80 million Americans who are still not vaccinated, even though the vaccine is safe, effective, and free,” Biden said.
He continued, “What more do you need to see? We’ve made vaccinations free, safe, and convenient. The vaccine is FDA approved. Over 200 million Americans have gotten at least one shot. We’ve been patient, but our patience is wearing thin, and your refusal has cost all of us.”
The president was later asked by a reporter what his message is to those who are threatening to challenge his mandate, as IJR reported.
“Have at it,” Biden replied. “I am so disappointed that particularly some of the Republican governors have been so cavalier with the health of these kids, so cavalier with the health of their communities. We’re playing for real here. This isn’t a game.”
