Despite coronavirus tightening its grip across America and people from different walks of life demanding justice for George Floyd, a black man who was killed by a white police officer, Donald Trump is bent on making his upcoming campaign trail in Tulsa, Oklahoma a success. This would be the first time in three months the president will be rallying supporters.
On June 19, the Oklahoma Supreme Court turned down an appeal in a lawsuit that was filed earlier this week by a group comprising Tulsa residents and business seeking to urge organizers to mandate social distancing measures. The lawsuit suggested that the rally, which is slated to take place indoors at the BOK Center, could surge the spread of the deadly virus, given that coronavirus cases have increased in Oklahoma recently.
During a recently concluded briefing, White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany told reporters that precautions such as carrying out temperature checks upon entry and providing rally attendees with masks and hand sanitizer will be taken. McEnany noted that it will not be compulsory for attendees to wear a mask.
Admitting that she won't be wearing a mask during the event, McEnany said wearing a mask is a personal decision. Moreover, the White House Press Secretary said she is tested regularly and feels that it is safe for her to not be wearing a mask. McEnany said she is in compliance with CDC recommended guidelines, which aren't compulsory to follow.
As far as the increase in COVID-19 cases in the state is concerned, McEnany said the governor expected the surge in cases as the state began to reopen its economy about two months ago. Keeping in line with that, the Trump campaign requires attendees to sign a waiver considering the risks of exposure to the virus.
Even before the rally, Tulsa was filled with people camping out hoping to catch a glimpse of Trump when he arrives, while others were there to participate in Juneteenth celebrations. Tulsa was initially slated to be under curfew this weekend, but it was lifted at the Secret Service's request, according to a city press release.
Mayor G.T. Bynum released a statement noting that he authorized a curfew at Tulsa Police Chief Wendell Franklin's request and after consulting the United States Secret Service based on information they had received. Bynum said he has been informed that the curfew was no longer necessary and he is rescinding it. Trump confirmed this via a tweet.