Cal Thomas - Closure contradictions

NICK EICHER, HOST: Today is Thursday, April 23rd. Good morning! This is The World and Everything in It from listener-supported WORLD Radio. I’m Nick Eicher.

MEGAN BASHAM, HOST: And I’m Megan Basham. Cal Thomas now on the growing pushback against stay-at-home orders.

CAL THOMAS, COMMENTATOR: The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guarantees “…the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.”

We’re increasingly watching Americans exercise that right in response to the duration of the COVID-19 lockdown and its resulting unemployment “pandemic.” Recent arbitrary executive orders by some governors have driven many who have never before demonstrated into the streets of state capitals, with more likely to come. They want their jobs and country back.

At least some governors are heeding the President Trump’s call to “open up.” Last week, Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida announced the reopening of some beaches and parks, with restrictions. 

In Texas, as the Ft. Worth Star-Telegram reported, Gov. Greg Abbott “Outlined a careful, phased-in effort to allow businesses to open.” The governor also named advisory panels to suggest next steps. 

Gov. Abbott promised he will be guided by medical data, but let’s hope that doesn’t include the faulty computer models some have relied upon during this crisis. 

Social distancing should continue, but that doesn’t mean restaurants cannot reopen with staff wearing masks and gloves. In warmer climates, outdoor tables and chairs could help bring traffic back to pre-pandemic numbers. 

Restaurant employees are often the most economically vulnerable because many rely heavily on tips. Whatever money they might receive if restaurant owners applied for government loans and grants is not likely to make up the difference.

Washington’s Democratic Gov. Jay Inslee has exchanged compliments with President Trump for the federal assistance given to his state. But last week Inslee accused the president of “fomenting domestic rebellion” with his liberation calls. He added that the president is encouraging “illegal and dangerous acts.”

But I don’t think so. It seems to me that arbitrary, draconian orders pose the most danger.

Last week, Michigan’s Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued an executive order that permits “kayaking, boating, sailing or canoeing, but not in a motorized pontoon boat or anything that would require a trip to the gas station.” People can “mow their own lawn, but not hire someone to do it.” Michiganders can “travel to care for an elderly relative, but not visit friends or go to second homes.” They can also “go for a walk, but not go golfing.”

Liquor and lottery ticket sales were not banned. With such silly and arbitrary dictates, is it any wonder more people are taking to the streets?

I’m Cal Thomas.

(AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill, File) This March 15, 2020 file photo shows very light traffic is seen in the afternoon on the Route 118 Ronald Reagan Freeway in Simi Valley, Calif. 

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