Trump’s Top Virus Adviser Says Yes To Masks, No To Parties

President Donald Trump’s top coronavirus adviser has called on everyone in Missouri to wear masks and refrain from attending parties.

After meeting with Republican Gov. Mike Parson Tuesday, Coronavirus Response Coordinator Dr. Deborah Birx said Democrats and Republicans must all wear masks to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Birx talked to Parson about enacting a statewide mask mandate similar to one in Texas. Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott in July required masks in counties with 20 or more confirmed coronavirus cases.

Parson didn't say if he would enact such a policy but said local officials already require masks in Missouri's hot spots.

Missouri Democratic Party Executive Director Lauren Gepfrod released the following statement about Dr. Birx’s COVID-19 briefing in Jefferson City, in which she recommended that Governor Parson look at putting in place a mask mandate similar to what Republican Governor Greg Abbott put in place in Texas:
“Dr. Birx agrees with Auditor Galloway: Missouri needs a statewide mask rule. During today’s briefing, Dr. Birx made clear that Missouri is not doing enough to fight COVID-19 and should consider putting in place a statewide mask mandate. It’s time for Governor Parson to stop playing politics and start listening to the experts who are urging him to put in place a mask rule that will protect Missourians.”