Despite the state’s universal indoor mask rule, Gov. Gavin Newsom and other Democratic California politicians were seen at the 49ers-Rams game without masks.
Magic Johnson, a former Lakers great, posted images of himself indoors with Newsom, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, and San Francisco Mayor London Breed on Sunday evening.
Hanging out at SoFi Stadium today! pic.twitter.com/XfotiRLGz9
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 31, 2022
In December, California imposed a universal indoor mask regulation, which was extended until February 15th. In the images, neither the California leaders nor Johnson were wearing masks.
Inglewood’s SoFi Stadium likewise has a mask policy that requires all fans to wear masks unless they are eating or drinking.
The California Democrats aren’t seen eating or drinking in Johnson’s images. In one of the photographs, actor Rob Lowe is shown without a mask.
Both Newsom and Breed have received backlash in the past for refusing to wear masks despite their states’ mask laws.
Newsom faced a recall campaign last year, sparked in part by fury over images of him interacting with a large group of individuals from outside his household while not wearing a mask at the fancy restaurant the French Laundry in 2020.
Communications director for Newsom’s office released a statement saying that the Governor respects the mandate and only took his mask off for a few minutes during the game. He still encourages all people of California to adhere to their part and wear mask to combat the pandemic.
As expected, Newsom’s actions during the game were not received well by others.
Where’s the masks? Complete hypocrites! https://t.co/W4JVrpT8Uo
— Bill Smith (@BillSmith445) January 31, 2022
Rules for thee, but not for me. Meanwhile our school children have to wear masks for hours on end. 👀 https://t.co/lqCzE50wxs
— Joseph Sanchez (@joeyliciouss) January 31, 2022
