AUGUSTA (WGME) — Protesters gathered behind the Blaine House Sunday to protest mask mandates.
The group Mainers Against Mask Mandates and said their goal is to try and eliminate not only mask requirements but also the COVID-19 safety mandates.
Dr. Nirav Shah, director of the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention, says wearing a mask can greatly decrease the risk of catching the virus — something the protesters don’t agree with.
“There is a whole bunch of us in the state who are fed up with these mask mandates,” said protest organizer Gail Gerahty.
Politicians at the rally included U.S. Senate candidate Max Linn, who recently cut up a mask during a televised debate. He said he questions Gov. Janet Mills’ response to the pandemic.
“I have never seen a better government control of the people than these masks,” he said. “I am a Democrat registered but I believe above all in freedom.”
The governor’s spokesman said in a statement, “Wearing a face covering is a sign of respect for our fellow Maine citizens, will save the lives of our healthcare workers and our most vulnerable, like the elderly; and will allow us to keep our economy up and running.
The rally was part of a nationwide march for freedom.
