The Daily A Dilemma in Texas
Jun 26, 2020
Join Manny Fernandez, The New York Times’s bureau chief in Houston, as he delves into Texas's complex response to the pandemic. He discusses the pressures Governor Abbott faced when pausing the state’s reopening amidst rising cases. The political dynamics reveal a struggle between local and state governance, highlighted by defiance from business owners against lockdown measures. The tension between economic recovery and public health is palpable, raising critical questions about the severity of COVID-19's impact in Texas.
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Texas vs. Government
- Historically, Texas has been mistrustful of government, meeting infrequently.
- During the Obama years, Texas frequently sued the federal government for overreach.
Shifting Political Landscape
- After Trump's election, Texas Republicans shifted focus from opposing federal overreach to targeting Democratic-led cities.
- This new focus created a political dynamic that influenced the state's pandemic response.
Abbott's Contradictory Approach
- Governor Abbott's pandemic response involved contradictory actions, including a confusing stay-at-home order.
- He later prevented cities from enforcing stricter local measures, creating conflict.
