Health experts warn of the potential for COVID-19 spread when President Trump resumes his rallies next weekend in Oklahoma. Trump plans to speak before supporters indoors at a 19,000-seat arena in Tulsa on Saturday.
Trump’s rallies typically draw tens of thousands of supporters. They usually stand outside in line for hours before passing through airport-style security and cramming into an arena, where they sit side by side or stand shoulder to shoulder. The rallies are typically raucous, with much shouting, cheering and chanting. Some people dance and jeer at reporters. Sometimes protesters are met with violence before they are removed by security.
Trump supporters coming from neighboring cities and states could carry the virus back home, Jha said. “I’d feel the same way if Joe Biden were holding a rally.”In its final phase of reopening, Oklahoma now allows public gatherings of any size as long as organizers consider social distancing. Participants at any large gathering should stay 6 feet apart and wear a cloth face covering when distancing is a challenge, the state health department said.
Dart said the risk of spreading the virus increases with higher numbers of people congregating for longer periods of time. “I would certainly recommend that people wear masks and try to keep as much distance as possible,” Payne said.
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