A Washington County sheriff was seen on video Wednesday saying to a crowd of people, “Don’t be a sheep,” on the orders of Governor Jay Inslee.
In a video shot by The Daily Chronicle, Lewis County Sheriff Robert Snaza is seen addressing a small crowd while speaking on a speakerphone.
“In case you haven’t heard, Governor. [Jay] Inslee their infinite wisdom is to decide that after more than a hundred strange days, we should all wear a mask, inside and out. This is what I say, ‘Don’t be a sheep,’ “Snaza says as the crowd erupts in cheers and applause.
The sheriff’s comments came after Inslee on Tuesday announced a state mandate requiring facial coats for residents in public places amid a recent surge in coronavirus cases.
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In an interview with Q13 Fox, Snaza played down the idea that he was encouraging the crowd to actively defy the governor’s orders.
“I’m not saying ‘defy the order.’ I never said that. But I said ‘don’t be a sheep’, which means you won’t always be a follower. It’s okay to ask questions. It’s okay to have worries. It’s okay to talk to your elected officials and say, ‘I don’t think this is correct,’ ”Snaza said.
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The legal requirement for face masks, which covers the entire state of Washington, will take effect on Friday and includes any indoor public space, as well as outdoor areas when social distancing measures cannot be maintained.