Updated: September 9, 2020 5:02:59 pm
The World Health Organization has promoted the use of face masks to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus.
A video of US President Donald Trump asking a journalist to remove his mask before asking a question during a press conference at the White House has drawn criticism online.
In the video, which has now gone viral on social media, the president of the United States can be heard telling the journalist to remove his mask because he cannot understand it. “You’re very muffled,” Trump told Reuters reporter Jeff Mason. However, Mason declined his request and said he would speak louder to make himself more audible.
Mason then asks about a recent report that Trump allegedly disparaged members of the US military who had been captured or killed. “It’s better,” Trump said with a sigh.
Later, Trump congratulated another reporter who asked a question without a mask covering his mouth. “You sound so clear compared to everyone else where they refuse,” Trump said, according to a USA Today report.
Look at video here:
President Donald Trump asked @Reuters journalist removes mask while asking question during Labor Day press conference at the White House pic.twitter.com/jB67ulAHlq
– Reuters (@Reuters) September 8, 2020
Trump’s comments have been widely criticized on social media, with many falling short of calling them intimidation tactics. However, many also praised the journalist for standing firm and not giving in to the president’s request.
nearly 190,000 Americans killed so far – #Triumph pic.twitter.com/E4PIXrdGLc
– gion ruera (@GionRuera) September 8, 2020
There is a better way to speak clearly than taking off your entire mask. Just pull him forward a bit and talk like that, he still has the mask on and everyone can hear. Or maybe next time bring a magaphone for the hard of hearing.
– Bridgette Bell (@BridgetteNRbell) September 8, 2020
Oh no, the horror! Hahaha
– Sandie (@SandieBellz) September 8, 2020
Do you have hearing problems?
– wieni (@ wieni2) September 8, 2020
He was very straightforward with his opinions.
– Julian George Oommen (@ JGO1969) September 8, 2020
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