Why Certain States Are Resisting Stay-at-Home Orders Despite Growing Coronavirus Infections

American citizens and their leaders currently find themselves in a delicate balance between public health and economic recovery. As the nation grapples with the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, some states have not mandated stay-at-home orders, leading to a complex set of issues.

Economic Well-Being vs. Safety

Americans tend to live on a fine line between economic stability and potential financial strain. With relatively low tax burdens, they enjoy higher discretionary spending capabilities. However, this does not equate to a broader social safety net, which means individuals are more susceptible to the economic repercussions of an extended shutdown. This heightened vulnerability is one key reason why Americans are resistant to such measures.

Political Divides and Public Health

The Republican governors of Florida, Georgia, and Texas are often cited as examples of policymakers who prioritize individual freedoms over public safety. These political leaders often emphasize personal responsibility over strict public health guidelines, which can lead to a false sense of security and a disregard for safety measures. As a result, activities such as bar-hopping, gym visits, and mass gatherings occur without the caution needed.

For instance, the governor of your city, with over 3000 new cases in just ten days, advocates for life and commerce to continue. He emphasizes individual responsibility rather than enforcing strict safety protocols. This approach can be dangerous, as current projections suggest that without intervention, roughly 910000 people out of a population of about 2 million could be infected by August 1st. The health and lives of residents are at risk, not just their financial well-being.

The Role of Politics and Inertia

President Trump has indicated a desire to avoid further shutdowns, citing potential 250,000 deaths by Christmas. This political landmark underscores the tension between public health and political expediency. While many citizens are aware of the need for safety measures, the prevailing inertia and fear-driven conservative ideology often prevent meaningful change.

The political landscape in the United States is defined by a majority where average citizens often align with conservative values, even when these values do not support public health. This is exemplified by the resistance to democratic principles that challenge the status quo. For example, laws that grant religious freedoms at the expense of women's rights, promote racial inequality through systemic policies, and protect wealthy elites at the expense of the middle class.

The Inequity of American Law and Policy

Current American laws often serve the interests of the elite, rather than promoting equality and human rights. Laws allowing Christians to interfere with women's reproductive rights, policies that unjustly target people of color, and those that protect the wealthy at the expense of the average American demonstrate the systemic inequities.

For instance, laws that permit the arrest and imprisonment of individuals of color in slave labor camps, and those that grant a license to kill to certain individuals, are just some of the examples of forces working against the protection of individual rights. The pursuit of profit and the maintenance of elite privilege often come at the cost of public safety and health.

From a public health perspective, the lack of robust stay-at-home orders in certain states reflects a broader issue of prioritizing economic stability over personal well-being. While policymakers have a duty to balance both, the current focus on saving capital over citizens is concerning. This is not just a failure of leadership but a reflection of the deeply flawed values that underpin American politics and policy.

Ultimately, the decision to prioritize economic interests over public health is a choice that has dire consequences not just in terms of health, but in terms of the moral standing of the nation. The failure to close down non-essential businesses and implement strict safety measures is a statement about the values of the society and the priorities of those in power.