Letters to the editor: Mask mandate, mayor recall
Mandate masks
To Gov. Little,
On July 9, you said, “...take steps now to slow the spread of the coronavirus” referring to the start of the fall school term. On July 21, you said you’ll not implement mandatory masks because two Idaho counties have no Covid-19 cases. This is illogical and contradictory! You put, “the few ahead of the many”.
Use of hand held cell phones in moving cars…no mortar type fireworks…observing speed limits…these are all meant for our safety. These laws were passed with no opposition. These laws are meant to protect us from ourselves.
Your phased plan is a total failure. Ada and Canyon counties are out of control. Yet, the idea of masks, to many, is an infringement on our freedom. The primary objective of government is to protect. So governor, protect!
Apparently, this is a Republican thing, protect business. Masks wearing will not affect the economy! In my opinion, you’re in danger of losing the next election because of your failure to take this pandemic seriously.
Wise up governor; show some leadership. Mandate masks and implement fines for the inconsiderate and ignorant non-wearers! Ensure your re-election. From an upset registered Republican.
Richard Beaver, Boise
Wear a mask
I was one of the 560 new cases of COVID-19 reported in Idaho on July 19.
While working from home, the company I work for began offering voluntary testing for the virus. I signed up out of curiosity, thinking that I, surely, would not be one of the unlucky ones who catches it. I never expected to get the frightening call that my test result was positive. I haven’t had contact with anyone showing symptoms, I wash my hands, avoid crowds and indoor spaces, try to maintain 6 feet of space from other people, and wear a mask whenever I go out. I like to run and stay active, and have never had any serious medical conditions. I have no symptoms of COVID and, thankfully, continue to feel physically normal. I had no reason to get tested, other than a test kit showed up at my door once a week.
How many are there like me? How many people are asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic carriers of the virus? How many cases, illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths can be prevented by wearing a mask? How many people have I prevented from infection by wearing a mask in public?
That’s why wearing a mask matters.
David Wray, Boise
Mayor recall
Recallers of the mayor:
Your recall issues are based on false premises.
1. Shuttering businesses. The mayor insightfully closed businesses before the governor did and mandated masks which may h.ave saved many lives. Dr. Ted Epperly: “This is the worst virus I’ve seen in 40 years.” Her “fault” is trying to keep you and your families safe? What don’t you get??
2. McLean does not support police. The police spokesperson: “We have a positive relationship with the mayor.”
3. The transition report is a “manifesto.” That is an intentional distortion on your part. Publishing the report was to comply with her policy of openness. It was not a declaration of intent to implement the report (as you well know). Nor does she have the power to do that on her own.
The mayor has a radical agenda? I think not. You have a radical agenda to smear a person who handily won a fair election and who obviously is not conservative enough for you.
These are extreme times for everyone. How about, instead of being incendiary and divisive, you and your bandwagon spend your energy helping her and her council build a stronger, kinder city? They need all of our support.
Lois Morgan, Boise