Political Quotes

“Mr. Chair, my amendment prohibits the funds appropriated by this act from being used to enforce any COVID-19 mask mandates. I have been proud to introduce this amendment in previous appropriations bills where they passed on a voice vote, and I am happy to do so here again. Policies involving mandatory mask implementation are about control, not about science. Tom Jefferson, not to be confused with Thomas Jefferson, is a leading epidemiologist who coauthored what The New York Times opinion section called--and again this is The New York Times--the ``most rigorous and comprehensive analysis of scientific studies conducted on the efficacy of masks for reducing the spread of respiratory illnesses--including COVID-19,'' and found there was no evidence that masks made any difference. It found that wearing masks in public places ``probably makes little or no difference'' in the number of infections. It should be noted that mask mandates included any and all masks. This study looked at the gold standard of masks, the N-95, and even they didn't make a difference. When you paired masks with preventative measures, there was no difference. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time. Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Chair, I claim the time in opposition. The Acting CHAIR. The gentlewoman from Connecticut is recognized for 5 minutes. Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Chair, I rise in opposition to this amendment. This amendment prohibits the use of funds to enforce any COVID-19 mask mandate.…”