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We need a clear message and we need it now

With politicians not on the same page as scientists and doctors, Americans are left confused on what they need to do.

MEMPHIS, Tenn — In tonight’s Ransom Note: mixed messages. 

It’s been the story of this pandemic. 

Scientists and doctors say one thing, whereas, politicians say another. That leaves Americans confused and a health crisis turns into a political fiasco. Now we have the same politicians contradicting themselves.  

Check out the tweet Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has pinned to the top of his twitter account. It has a video of a commercial telling us to mask up because they fight the spread of COVID-19. 

But just today, the Governor lifted all pandemic-related restrictions on all businesses in Tennessee’s 89 rural counties. He also left it up to county mayors to decide whether to impose mask mandates. 

So now the county mayors of Tipton and Fayette counties, who imposed mask mandates at the request of Memphis hospitals, are lifting those mandates. This despite Tennessee ranking 13th in the country for cases over the past two weeks. 

But in the same breath, Tipton County Mayor Jeff Huffman said, “I cannot emphasize enough. I strongly, strongly urge everyone to continue to practice social distancing and wear a face covering when in public and around other people.” 

Join the conversation by email (rransom@localmemphis.com), Facebook, and Twitter.

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