In a lighthearted moment on Wednesday, President Joe Biden entered a room full of people in the East Room of the White House, holding the mask he had been required to wear in public spaces since First Lady Jill Biden’s second positive Covid test on Monday, despite being fully vaccinated and having received multiple booster shots.
With a chuckle, President Biden addressed the attendees, half-jokingly asking them not to report his failure to wear a face covering, emphasizing that he had tested negative for the virus.
“Let me explain to the press,” Biden said with a grin. “I’ve been tested again today. I’m clear across the board.”
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“They keep telling me… I’ve got to keep wearing it,” he added while playfully holding up the black mask, “but don’t tell them I didn’t have it on when I just walked in.”
The room erupted in laughter in response to his candid remarks.
Biden says he has to keep wearing a mask, and says “But don’t tell ’em I didn’t have it on when I walked in.” pic.twitter.com/bohDSpt3nw
— The Post Millennial (@TPostMillennial) September 6, 2023
After First Lady Jill Biden’s Covid diagnosis, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre announced that the President would be required to wear a mask indoors when in the presence of other people.
“Since the president was with the First Lady yesterday,” she explained, “he will be masking while indoors and around people, in alignment with CDC guidance. As has been the practice in the past, the president will remove his mask when sufficiently distant from others indoors and while outside as well.”
Jean-Pierre further stated that President Biden was adhering to CDC recommendations for individuals who come into contact with someone who tests positive for Covid. These guidelines involve a combination of masking, testing, and monitoring for symptoms.
The press secretary also highlighted the changing seasons, pointing out that as summer transitions into fall and winter, Americans will have access to more tools to prevent and treat Covid. These tools include updated vaccines and at-home tests. Jean-Pierre encouraged vulnerable individuals to get vaccinated not only against Covid but also against influenza and RSV.
President Biden’s casual approach to mask-wearing in this instance reflects the ongoing adjustments and challenges posed by the pandemic as the country continues to navigate its way toward normalcy.
