OPINION:
We were caught flat-footed by COVID-19, as was almost every country. A few states took the brunt of it, and in those places people stayed at home, socially distanced and wore masks, finally bringing the spread under control.
There was a glimmer of hope, but now, thanks to people refusing to wear masks, reopening too early and protesting en masse, that hope has faded into oblivion.
We’ve got to stop playing politics. Republicans, starting with the president, must urge their constituents to take this seriously, and Democrats have to stop pretending that it’s safe for demonstrators to gather by the thousands in the streets.
Nothing in the Constitution defends citizens’ rights to endanger others, and no cause, no matter how just, indemnifies protesters from infection.
GARY TAUSTINE
New York
Please read our comment policy before commenting.