Earlier today, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced that masks are now a requirement in the House of Representatives chamber.
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The new mask policy was announced after Rep. Louie Gohmert tested positive for the coronavirus and Pelosi said members will be removed by the Sergeant At Arms if they are not wearing masks in the House Chamber. She states, “Members and staff will be required to wear masks at all times in the hall of the House. The chair expects all members and staff to adhere to this requirement as an item of respect. Members and staff will not be permitted to enter the hall of the House without wearing a mask. The Speaker views the failure to wear the mask as a serious breach of decorum.”
The policy will be in effect as of Thursday and additionally, anyone who enters House office buildings will be required to wear a mask. Speeches and interviews are expected to follow social distancing guidelines.
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Fox News noted Gohmert was often seen without a mask and planned to travel to Texas with President Donald Trump. He said he tested positive for the virus had no symptoms.
My statement about today’s diagnosis: pic.twitter.com/qvf7zIcgdN
— Louie Gohmert (@replouiegohmert) July 29, 2020