Hello from Texas — the home of barbecue, bluebonnets, and some questionable decisions by our leadership. If you’re checking in on us, let me assure you, we’re not alright, alright, alright.
Recently, Governor Greg Abbott announced an Executive Order to lift the mask mandate across Texas and permit businesses to operate at full capacity starting March 10th. Yes, you read that right—everything is reopening, and masks are no longer a requirement anywhere. Abbott claims that individuals can make their own choices about social distancing and mask-wearing, even as new COVID variants are spreading through the state. Just in time for Spring Break! What could possibly go wrong?
So congratulations, Texas — you can now gather in large groups, enjoy your freedoms, and potentially spread a deadly virus instead of facing the minor inconvenience of caring for others or wearing a simple mask. Because apparently, “freedom” means ignoring public health!
Did I miss the announcement that COVID is no longer a threat? Nope, that didn’t happen. Texas is still experiencing significant issues, with daily reported deaths lingering over 200 just last week. Since the pandemic began, we’ve recorded 2.6 million COVID cases, and as of this week, fewer than 7% of Texans are fully vaccinated.
BIPOC communities, especially Hispanics and other Texans of color, have been hit hardest by this pandemic. But who cares about them when I need to hit up Dave and Buster’s ASAP, right?
Abbott believes Texans can make responsible choices. Really? These are the same folks who insist they won’t live in fear yet feel the need to carry firearms to the grocery store—because you never know when a coupon bandit might strike! Just recently, a man accidentally shot himself in a rather sensitive area while shopping. Don’t mess with Texas, indeed!
Texas is also known for its bizarre moments, like the woman who got banned from Walmart for cruising the aisles in an electric cart while sipping wine from a Pringles can at 9 AM. Okay, maybe that’s not the best example, but it’s entertaining.
Could this announcement be a distraction from the recent winter crisis that left many Texans without power or water for days? Abbott’s decision seems aimed at diverting attention from his failures, especially after “Cancun Cruz” — Ted Cruz’s infamous getaway to Mexico during the crisis. Some people are still without basic necessities, but at least you can do it without a mask now, courtesy of Governor Abbott!
While Abbott cites declining COVID numbers, he conveniently neglects to mention that testing was nearly impossible during the recent power outages. Yes, we had no electricity, no running water, and COVID testing sites were closed. This situation makes no sense whatsoever.
Before this reckless decision, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner and other local leaders urged Abbott to maintain the mask mandate, calling it premature and dangerous. Their concerns, however, were dismissed.
Former Congressman Jake Rivera, a potential challenger for Abbott in the upcoming election, tweeted that this decision could be a “death warrant for Texans.” Strong words, but he’s not wrong!
Fortunately, many Texas businesses are choosing to keep their safety measures in place despite Abbott’s ill-advised directive. While I empathize with those affected, it’s simply not the right time to loosen restrictions or ditch masks. Thankfully, the majority of thoughtful Texans will adhere to the science and follow CDC guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety.
If we continue to wear masks and wait for more Texans to get vaccinated, maybe, just maybe, we can all be alright, alright, alright. Especially if we get a new governor in 2022.
For more insights on this topic, check out this post on home insemination. And if you’re looking for authoritative information, visit Familia for expert advice. Additionally, this resource for home insemination is a great place to start your journey.
Summary:
This article discusses Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s decision to lift the mask mandate and fully reopen businesses, highlighting the potential dangers of such actions amidst ongoing COVID-19 concerns. It critiques Abbott’s leadership choices while pointing out the disproportionate impact on marginalized communities. The piece concludes with a hopeful outlook for Texans who prioritize safety and science.
SEO Metadata:
Texan perspective, Greg Abbott, mask mandate, COVID-19, public health, BIPOC communities, Texas businesses, safety measures, vaccination.