According to CNN, Texas Governor Greg Abbott tested positive for the COVID Delta variant despite being fully vaccinated. As Abbott recuperates at the governor’s mansion while receiving Regeneron’s monoclonal therapy, Texas has the highest pediatric infection rate at 329, as reported by the US Dept. of Health and Human Services (USDHHS).
The “Texas Republican joins a list of governors who have tested positive for COVID-19 throughout the pandemic, though Abbott’s diagnosis is likely to fuel scrutiny from critics given his resistance to implementing mitigation measures as the Delta variant surges nationwide,” per CNN.
In March 2021, Abbott declared Texas “open for business,” citing the limitation of employment opportunities and that small businesses struggle to pay bills. Abbott also lifted the mandatory mask mandate. However, he commented on personal responsibility, stating that the mask ban “does not end personal responsibility and caring for your family members, friends and others in your community.” But then Abbott back-tracked: “People and businesses don’t need the state telling them how to operate.”
On August 17th, there were “327 ICU beds available in Texas and 11,791 lab-confirmed COVID-19 patients in hospitals throughout the state, according to state health data,” per the (USDHHS).
All the more reason to mask up!
Americans seem dumb to me. We only need to look at a map. The red/GOP states generally have much higher infection rates. Wearing a mask has become so politicized that we appear unable to comprehend fundamental information. And, our lives, all of our lives, depend on taking the simple steps of wearing a mask in public, practicing medically approved hand washing (while singing the ABC’s song), and staying home as much as possible.
Of the 11,791 positive cases, let’s say 3930, or 30%, get sick enough to need to go to the hospital.
There are 327 ICU beds in Texas. That means if you are getting very sick, you only have a 12% chance of getting a hospital bed (3930/327 = 12.02), even if 60% who are infected don’t need a bed.
So if you’re not the governor who lifted mask mandates, and the governor’s mansion and the best possible care are not available to you, based on the very scary stats above, you will likely find yourself on your own.
What is the Christian response?
Honestly, I find myself angry. The photo CNN used alongside its article about Abbott getting the Delta variant of COVID shows him in the midst of an unmasked crowd at a “Republican Club” at Heritage Ranch. Such conduct reflects a lack of honor in a dangerous time. Throwing caution to the wind is not commendable; it is not honest.
It’s possible Abbott already had COVID before this gathering
It’s so ironic that the governor’s name is Abbott, typically a man who leads a group of men dedicated to a life of living safely and respectfully. The abbot leads other monks who dedicate their entire lives to praying and working for the betterment of everyone. I think the Christian response involves practicing COVID safety measures, praying for each other, and staying home as much as possible. I must curb my anger, be vocal, and work towards eradicating this vile virus.
As a leader, Abbott and all elected executives have a duty to model responsible behavior according to the best available scientific information and guidance. And, not just for the kids! For all of us. We’re in this together. How many more of us have to die, including our children, before we get our act together as a nation?
I’m reminded of the advice of St. Paul in his letter to the Philippians 4:8—
Finally, beloved, whatever is true,
Whatever is honorable,
Whatever is just,
Whatever is pure,
Whatever is pleasing,
Whatever is commendable,
If there is any excellence
and if there is anything worthy of praise,
think on these things.
Encourage everyone that you can to wear a mask. We must double down on COVID-Delta and other variants in the making. Be patient but firm. Invite people to be a part of the solution. Be vigilant and take care of yourself!
Blessings on your journey.
