When coronavirus first began, California was the very first state to issue a complete lockdown. Not long afterwards, many other states followed suit.
Over the past several weeks, many states have begun to relax lockdown measures and re-engage their economies. This includes allowing businesses to resume in-person operations, reopen dining room doors, etc. However, in the wake of reports claiming new coronavirus surges, certain states are now dialing things back.
Yesterday, California Governor Gavin Newsom issued another lockdown for the vast majority of the state. According to Breitbart News, 30 counties across the Golden State are under orders to shutter their businesses and suspend operations, yet again.
A Closer Look at California Shutdown 2.0
As of yesterday, 30 counties in California must shut down the following businesses: malls, churches, gyms and fitness centers, barbershops, hair salons, personal care services, and other “non-critical” divisions.
Counties impacted:
Colusa
Contra Costa
Fresno
Glenn
Imperial
Kings
LA
Madera
Marin
Merced
Monterey
Napa
Orange
Placer
Riverside
Sacramento
San Benito
San Bernardino
San Diego
San Joaquin
Santa Barbara
Solano
Sonoma
Stanislaus
Sutter
Tulare
Yolo
Yuba
Ventura
*— Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) July 13, 2020
This is only the beginning, though. On Monday, Newsom announced that coronavirus transmission continues to occur at “alarming rates.” Therefore, the California governor is mandating that bars, wineries, restaurants, museums, cardrooms, zoos, family entertainment centers, and movie theaters close across the state.
Newsom’s latest shutdown comes as many California residents were just getting used to returning to certain businesses and activities. In a press conference, the governor stated that California is essentially regressing back to a stay-at-home directive, but in a “modified mode.”
Newsom then went on to reiterate that coronavirus is a “deadly disease,” despite its recovery rate that surpasses 99%.
Public Health or Power Trip?
As certain states halt their reopening plans to return back to shutdown postures, Americans are watching. Many have expressed concerns that lockdowns and face mask mandates are about social control and power trips, rather than public health.
Governor Newsom and other leaders who enforce and push for shutdowns continue to claim that such measures are for the best interests of Americans. Yet, June marked a significant month in job growth, following the relaxation of lockdowns.
Mixing with people outside of your household isn't worth it.
Keep your loved ones safe from #COVID19 by practicing physical distancing and wearing your mask. #SlowtheSpread pic.twitter.com/d8kzHZvvwu
— Office of the Governor of California (@CAgovernor) July 14, 2020
Many people have also criticized the notion that forcing businesses to close is for a “greater good.” At this time, the California governor continues to face multiple lawsuits from state residents who are not pleased with his various reactions to COVID-19.
What do you think of California’s return to shutdown mode? Is Newsom acting in the best interests of state residents or is he on a power trip? Let us know what you think down below in the comments section.
