Trump on Why He's Not Concerned About COVID at Rallies: 'I’m on a Stage'
President Donald Trump explained why he believes there is a decreased possibility of him contracting the coronavirus at one of his rallies.
The president conducted a brief interview with the “Las Vegas: Review Journal” on Sunday prior to taking the stage for his campaign rally.
Reporter Debra J. Saunders asked Trump if he was at all concerned about the possibility of catching the virus at a rally.
“Aren’t you concerned about COVID though in an enclosed room?” Saunders asked.
Trump said, “No I’m not concerned.”
It has been noted that social distancing was practically non-existent at the rally and very few attendees wore masks, as previously reported on IJR. However, the president made it clear he was not concerned about possibly becoming ill.
Saunders went on to express concern about rally-goers’ chances of contracting the virus as she asked, “What about people here?”
Trump avoided answering the question, specifically, as he countered saying, “I’m more concerned about how close you are, to be honest. Because you know why? I’m on a stage, and it’s very far away.”
He added, “And so I’m not at all concerned.”
See Trump’s remarks below:
The president’s remarks on Sunday came after a long week of criticism following the release of audio clips that confirmed he was well aware of the severity of the coronavirus.
Trump verbally admitted that he “likes” to downplay the airborne virus to decrease the possibility of people panicking. During his press briefing on Wednesday, he also admitted that he may have misled the public in his efforts to reduce panic.
“The fact is I’m a cheerleader for this country. I love our country, and I don’t want people to be frightened,” Trump said. “I don’t want to create panic, as you say, and certainly, I’m not going to drive this country or the world into a frenzy.”
As of Monday afternoon, the United States has confirmed more than 6.7 million coronavirus cases, nationwide. The death toll is now approaching 200,000.
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