Some of South Dakota’s top elected officials are sending mixed messages about the health precautions they will take during the fireworks show at Mount Rushmore.
Republican U.S. Senator Mike Rounds says he plans to wear a mask at the fireworks display. There are 7,500 ticketholders for the Friday event where there are no plans for social distancing measures.
The former South Dakota governor says it makes sense to wear a mask when you’re around a large group.
“And, I’m going to set that example,” Rounds says. “But I can also tell you that, what we really need to do is use that good ole South Dakota common sense.”
Rounds says it’s the same approach he takes when he’s in Washington D.C. There, he wears a mask everywhere until he’s either in his apartment or his office. Rounds says he also has hand sanitizer wherever he goes.
He says taking precautions to prevent virus spread are a courtesy to keep friends, family, and neighbors healthy until there are treatments and vaccines available.
Republican Governor Noem was a guest on the Laura Ingram show on Fox News earlier this week. Noem says people must be personally responsible and if they’re concerned about attending a large event, they should stay home.
“We won’t be social distancing,” Noem says. “We’re asking them to come, be ready to celebrate, to enjoy the freedoms and the liberty we have in this country.”
Noem says free masks will be available at the fireworks show for people who want them.
