Anthony!
I've been debating if I should open my big yap since first seeing your post. Sorry, but this is too important ...
Yes. It would be great if we could have confidence in what our leaders, and media, tell us. I can personally recall a time, not all that long ago, when we could. That has certainly fallen apart, along with a lot of other important things. These days it's best to double/triple verify any, and all, sources. It has become undeniably apparent that a certain given faction is completely off the rails. Unfortunately, they currently have the biggest, loudest, bullhorn, that they're using to blast all of us with boatloads of bull, and "alternative facts". I am totally flabbergasted, given all of the Evidence that is contrary to their rantings, that Anybody (like the anti-maskers) believes any of them anymore.
The virus is Science. There shouldn't be anything political about it at all. It doesn't care. However, a certain "politician" has insisted on putting his fat, spray-tanned, thumb on the scales, hugely. Not only has he undermined his own scientists, he's incited resistance to his own "administration's" guidelines and advice. He's encouraged those who listen to him to defy all efforts to control the pandemic. Now they're insisting on their "individual freedoms" over common responsibility, and, indeed, duty, to protect our fellow countrymen. And, you're wondering why Emperor Wolf had to resort to enforceable mandates, for something as simple, easy, and effective as face coverings, in the interests of public safety?
Yeah. We have come to that. And, we need to change it Bigly in November, if we're still around. The good news is, most of the rest of the world is doing pretty well. We're only 4-5% of this planet's population. Humanity is going to survive this. They listened, went with facts, did what they needed to do, and now they're all freer to go back about their lives than we are. I'm sure you're aware that Canada and Mexico have closed their borders to us, and the EU has a travel ban on us. Talk about ironic. I have to admit I see some dark humor in that.
Yes. The news here is terrible. If it's raising your blood pressure, I agree with Randy. Limit your exposure. You and Kev have something in common. I have to talk him off the ceiling at least once a day, if not more often.
Speaking of science vs. politics, enjoy the weather. Just another tiny little global concern. At least you're getting outdoors, which is a very good thing.
Take good care of your plants, Mom, and You!
Luv ya, bud!!
Chaz
........that's gone too....... 
