Ohio’s GOP Gov. Mike DeWine on Sunday said wearing masks to avoid the spread of COVID-19 isn’t about “politics” — but about protecting lives.
In an interview on NBC News’ “Meet The Press,” DeWine noted studies have shown that wearing a mask is effective in blocking droplets that can spread the coronavirus — and acknowledged the debate is an emotional one.
“I’ve watched that clip a couple of times” of North Dakota GOP Gov. Doug Burgmun emotionally urging mask-wearing to protect people who have underlying medical issues or are elderly and at risk.
“This is not about politics,” he said. “You wear the masks to protect others. … it’s about helping other people.”
DeWine also defended reopening his state’s economy, saying there also a risk in leaving the economy in lockdown.
“We can do both these things,” he said of reopening and staying safe.
DeWine said the state still, however, wasn’t ready to go into the next phase that would allow bigger gatherings at places like Cedar Point, a popular amusement park in Ohio.
“Cedar Point is one of my favorite roller coaster parks to go to in this country. I think it’s the best roller coasters going,” he said.
“That would be a next level of reopening," he said. "I have no idea when Cedar Point will be able to open. Our kids and grandkids love to go there. We would love to go there, but we’re certainly not there yet.”
© 2025 Newsmax. All rights reserved.