BROWN COUNTY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – President Donald Trump’s Saturday rally at Austin Straubel International Airport comes as the White House Coronavirus Task Force has labeled Wisconsin a red zone for COVID-19, with the third highest case rate in the country.
Despite that, local Republicans say interest in attending the 6 p.m. rally is sky high.
The White House Coronavirus Task Force is recommending Wisconsin residents social distance at “the maximum degree possible.”
However, in an exclusive interview with FOX 11, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar wouldn’t directly discourage the President’s airport rally.
“I don’t comment about political activities or rallies, but I’ll tell you the advice we give under all circumstances is follow the three W’s: wash your hands, watch your distance and wear your face coverings when you can’t watch your distance and avoid settings where you can’t do these things.”
Azar says above all, people should consider their individual circumstances.
At least one local republican agrees on that point.
“What we would encourage people is if you’re coming, take whatever precautions you believe you need to be safe,” said Andy Williams, vice chairman for the Republican Party of Brown County.
Williams tells FOX 11 he will be at the rally and won’t be wearing a mask.
“I don’t have a reason to wear a mask, I’m not sick. Then people move from that argument into the symptomatic argument, but again when does this end then? Do we ever have an end?”
“We are literally weeks to months away from next generation monoclonal antibody therapeutics and FDA approved vaccines, so please practice individual responsibility, protect yourself, and protect your family members because we have a really bright future ahead of us,” said Azar.
During Tuesday night’s debate, the President said his rallies are safe because they are held outdoors and there have been no problems so far.
Vice President Joe Biden called the President’s rallies foolish.
A limited amount of tickets for the public are available to register for online.
