All White House staffers have been ordered to wear face masks at all times to protect the president and vice president from the coronavirus after some staffers tested positive.
President Trump famously said he would not wear a mask. But Chief of Staff Mark Meadows issued a memo to all White House staff that masks should be worn at all times inside the building except when at one’s desk.
The news comes as four of Pence’s close aides tested positive. Secret Service agents and Trump’s personal valet also tested positive.
The CDC recommended face coverings for the public but stopped short of making the recommendation mandatory.
Both Trump and VP Mike Pence have been criticized for not wearing a face mask during public appearances or when touring clinics and factories.
Trump said he doesn’t believe wearing a mask is “appropriate” for public duties. “I don’t see it for myself, I just don’t,” he said.
Several aides told The Wall Street Journal they don’t expect Trump to start wearing a face mask.
