Rep. Peter Abbarno statement on governor’s recommendation that all people, including those fully vaccinated, wear masks

During a press conference Wednesday, Gov. Jay Inslee recommended fully-vaccinated people should consider wearing masks in public indoor spaces. He added masks will also be required for all K-12 students and school employees.

In response, Rep. Peter Abbarno, R-Centralia, issued this statement:

“Our families, schools, and businesses need a plan and consistent leadership. Unfortunately, the governor continues to move the goal posts on all Washingtonians with new, conflicting and confusing messages, such as saying vaccines are very effective and then telling people to wear a mask if they are fully vaccinated. He provides little certainty and hope, but issues plenty of blame against Washingtonians, without any recognition of his own mismanagement or the harms caused by his mandates over the past 17 months.

“While he came short of enacting a statewide mask mandate, the governor said other requirements are under consideration, including mandating vaccinations for state employees and students. Washington citizens have been under the governor’s emergency orders and threats long enough. It is time for the governor to release his white-knuckle grip on government, stop monopolizing decision-making, quit pointing fingers at those making their own choices about vaccinations, and begin listening to working families, small businesses, and duly-elected legislators from across the state.”     

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Washington State House Republican Communications
houserepublicans.wa.gov