After more than 50 Texas Democrats fled the state to avoid a special legislative session, three of the lawmakers tested positive for COVID-19.
After one member tested positive for the virus on Friday, two more lawmakers received additional positive test results on Saturday.
“This is a sober reminder that COVID is still with us, and though vaccinations offer tremendous protection, we still must take necessary precautions. We are in touch with public health experts in Texas to provide additional guidance. Our caucus will follow all recommendations from public health experts as we continue our work,” said chairman Chris Turner (D-Grand Prairie) announcing the positive test.
While Turner said that “we still must take necessary precautions,” many on social media pointed out the hypocrisy of the group of lawmakers that flew on a private plane to Washington D.C. — with no member wearing a mask as current federal laws require passengers on commercial flights.
“Rules for thee but not for me strikes the Democrats, again. Hey, @TSA, if these Democrat lawmakers are allowed to fly without masks, so should the American people. Follow the science, not the political science,” tweeted Republican Rep. Byron Donalds in response to the photo.
Rules for thee but not for me strikes the Democrats, again.
Hey, @TSA, if these Democrat lawmakers are allowed to fly without masks, so should the American people.
Follow the science, not the political science. https://t.co/xR1nCLbvTG
— Byron Donalds (@ByronDonalds) July 12, 2021
“Does this mean we can stop wearing masks on planes? Or is that rule just waived for Democrats on private planes?” questioned Congressman Greg Steube.
Does this mean we can stop wearing masks on planes? Or is that rule just waived for Democrats on private planes? https://t.co/0bcDF1Tkvn
— Congressman Greg Steube (@RepGregSteube) July 13, 2021
The Democratic state lawmakers are in the nation’s capital to advocate for a sweeping overhaul of elections within the United States. The “For the People Act” would alter the country’s election system and provide a dramatic expansion of the federal government’s role.
While advocating for the change, the group has met with many leaders, including Vice President Kamala Harris, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Joe Manchin, and other elected officials.
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Cooper Moran is a reporter for the Star News Network. Follow Cooper on Twitter. Email tips to [email protected].
