Missouri Republican Governor Mike Parson and his wife said Wednesday they’ve tested positive for coronavirus. Throughout the pandemic, Gov. Parson has opposed mask mandates and has frequently appeared at public gatherings without a face covering — as recently as last weekend. In July, Parson dismissed concerns that reopening Missouri schools would lead to a surge of COVID-19 among students, family members and school employees.

Gov. Mike Parson: “These kids have got to get back to school. They’re at the lowest risk possible. And if they do get COVID-19 — which they will, and they will when they go to school — they’re not going to the hospitals. They’re not going to have to sit in doctor’s offices. They’re going to go home, and they’re going to get over it.”