skynewsus--2020-07-01--'Wear a damn mask,' says Jennifer Aniston as coronavirus cases surge

Jennifer Aniston has posted a picture of herself wearing a mask and urged fans to do the same as coronavirus cases surge in parts of the US .
The Friends star posted a long message to fans on Instagram , saying she understands masks are `` inconvenient and uncomfortable '' but that people should wear them if they `` care about human life '' .
Cases of COVID-19 are on the rise in parts of the US , including in the star 's home of California .
New coronavirus cases in the state rose by 8,441 on Tuesday , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - the highest single-day increase since the start of the pandemic .
The US as a whole also saw its biggest one-day spike in new infections on Tuesday , with more than 47,000 cases .
Texas and Arizona , as well as California , have emerged as new epicentres of the pandemic .
Wearing a mask is mandatory in many public places in California , where bars have been forced to close only weeks after reopening , and beaches have been shut ahead of 4 July celebrations on Saturday .
Sharing her thoughts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , wrote : `` I understand masks are inconvenient and uncomfortable .
`` But do n't you feel that it 's worse that businesses are shutting down ... jobs are being lost ... health care workers are hitting absolute exhaustion .
`` And so many lives have been taken by this virus because we are n't doing enough . ''
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker She continued : `` I really do believe in the basic goodness of people so I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still , there are many people in our country refusing to take the necessary steps to flatten the curve , and keep each other safe .
`` People seem worried about their 'rights being taken away ' by being asked to wear a mask .
This simple and effective recommendation is being politicised at the expense of peoples ' lives .
And it really should n't be a debate . ''
Aniston added : `` If you care about human life , please ... just # wearadamnmask and encourage those around you to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fauci , head of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases , has warned that the number of cases across the US could increase even further .
He told a US Senate committee he is `` concerned '' because the situation could become `` very bad '' .
`` We ca n't just focus on those areas that are having the surge , '' said the country 's top infectious diseases expert .
`` It puts the entire country at risk . ''

Jennifer Aniston has posted a picture of herself wearing a mask and urged fans to do the same as coronavirus cases surge in parts of the US.
The Friends star posted a long message to fans on Instagram, saying she understands masks are "inconvenient and uncomfortable" but that people should wear them if they "care about human life".
Cases of COVID-19 are on the rise in parts of the US, including in the star's home of California.
New coronavirus cases in the state rose by 8,441 on Tuesday, according to a tally by news agency Reuters - the highest single-day increase since the start of the pandemic.
Image: Aniston pictured in more glamorous attire at the Golden Globes earlier in 2020
The US as a whole also saw its biggest one-day spike in new infections on Tuesday, with more than 47,000 cases.
Texas and Arizona, as well as California, have emerged as new epicentres of the pandemic.
Wearing a mask is mandatory in many public places in California, where bars have been forced to close only weeks after reopening, and beaches have been shut ahead of 4 July celebrations on Saturday.
Sharing her thoughts on social media, Aniston, 51, wrote: "I understand masks are inconvenient and uncomfortable.
"But don't you feel that it's worse that businesses are shutting down... jobs are being lost... health care workers are hitting absolute exhaustion.
Advertisement
"And so many lives have been taken by this virus because we aren't doing enough."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
She continued: "I really do believe in the basic goodness of people so I know we can all do this BUT still, there are many people in our country refusing to take the necessary steps to flatten the curve, and keep each other safe.
"People seem worried about their 'rights being taken away' by being asked to wear a mask. This simple and effective recommendation is being politicised at the expense of peoples' lives. And it really shouldn't be a debate."
Aniston added: "If you care about human life, please... just #wearadamnmask and encourage those around you to do the same."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:43 US may see '100,000 new COVID cases a day'
Dr Anthony Fauci, head of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, has warned that the number of cases across the US could increase even further.
He told a US Senate committee he is "concerned" because the situation could become "very bad".
"We can't just focus on those areas that are having the surge," said the country's top infectious diseases expert.
"It puts the entire country at risk."


skynewsus--2020-07-01--Facebook bans hundreds of profiles trying to incite second civil war in the US

Facebook has banned 315 accounts which it said belonged to `` Boogaloos '' - participants in an extremist movement in the US which believes a second civil war is inevitable or desirable .
At least 10 individuals affiliated with the movement have been accused of serious crimes in the past year .
They include US Air Force sergeant Steven Carrillo , who is charged with murdering a police officer in California , using the George Floyd protests as cover .
Facebook said the `` acts of real-world violence and our investigations into them are what led us to identify and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ general movement .
The name comes from an internet meme based on the film Breakin ' 2 : Electric Boogaloo .
In the memes `` 2 : Electric Boogaloo '' is appended to items or events to suggest there will be a sequel .
In the case of the Boogaloo movement , the event is the American Civil War .
Participants have been present at multiple demonstrations following the police killing of George Floyd , often heavily armed and wearing Hawaiian shirts alongside tactical equipment .
The use of memes and the adoption @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tactic used by the far-right to attract and recruit young men , according to analysts who study extremist movements .
Facebook said the network it proscribed was `` actively promoting violence against civilians , law enforcement and government officials and institutions '' .
Members of the network were also seeking to `` recruit others within the broader Boogaloo movement , sharing the same content online and adopting the same offline appearance as others in the movement to do so '' .
`` We know the initial elements of the Boogaloo movement began as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been closely following its developments since 2019 , '' the social media company said .
`` We understand that the term has been adopted by a range of anti-government activists who generally believe civil conflict in the US is inevitable .
`` But activists are divided over numerous issues , including the goal of a civil conflict , racism and antisemitism , and whether to instigate violent conflict or be prepared to react when it occurs . ''
Facebook said it had removed a total of 315 accounts on both its own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pages and 106 groups connected to the network .
The company added that it had previously removed over 800 posts linked to the Boogaloo movement which clearly called for violence .
`` So long as violent movements operate in the physical world , they will seek to exploit digital platforms , '' stated the company , which is currently facing a boycott from advertisers who allege is it profiting by allowing such hate groups on its platforms .

Facebook has banned 315 accounts which it said belonged to "Boogaloos" - participants in an extremist movement in the US which believes a second civil war is inevitable or desirable.
At least 10 individuals affiliated with the movement have been accused of serious crimes in the past year.
They include US Air Force sergeant Steven Carrillo, who is charged with murdering a police officer in California, using the George Floyd protests as cover.
Image: Boogaloos often attend protests carrying arms
Facebook said the "acts of real-world violence and our investigations into them are what led us to identify and designate this distinct network" within the general movement.
The name comes from an internet meme based on the film Breakin' 2: Electric Boogaloo. In the memes "2: Electric Boogaloo" is appended to items or events to suggest there will be a sequel.
In the case of the Boogaloo movement, the event is the American Civil War.
Participants have been present at multiple demonstrations following the police killing of George Floyd, often heavily armed and wearing Hawaiian shirts alongside tactical equipment.
The use of memes and the adoption of the Hawaiian floral-print shirts is a tactic used by the far-right to attract and recruit young men, according to analysts who study extremist movements.
Image: The movement expects a second American Civil War
Facebook said the network it proscribed was "actively promoting violence against civilians, law enforcement and government officials and institutions".
Advertisement
Members of the network were also seeking to "recruit others within the broader Boogaloo movement, sharing the same content online and adopting the same offline appearance as others in the movement to do so".
"We know the initial elements of the Boogaloo movement began as far back as 2012, and we have been closely following its developments since 2019," the social media company said.
"We understand that the term has been adopted by a range of anti-government activists who generally believe civil conflict in the US is inevitable.
"But activists are divided over numerous issues, including the goal of a civil conflict, racism and antisemitism, and whether to instigate violent conflict or be prepared to react when it occurs."
Facebook said it had removed a total of 315 accounts on both its own platform and on Instagram, alongside 28 pages and 106 groups connected to the network.
The company added that it had previously removed over 800 posts linked to the Boogaloo movement which clearly called for violence.
"So long as violent movements operate in the physical world, they will seek to exploit digital platforms," stated the company, which is currently facing a boycott from advertisers who allege is it profiting by allowing such hate groups on its platforms.


skynewsus--2020-07-01--Multimillion-dollar settlement reached for Weinstein's victims

The New York attorney general 's office says it has reached a $ 19m ( £15m ) settlement in sexual lawsuits against convicted rapist and former film producer Harvey Weinstein .
The payments , which need to be approved by bankruptcy and district courts , will resolve both the attorney general 's legal action and a separate November 2017 class action brought on behalf of dozens of his alleged sexual misconduct victims .
If agreed , the settlement will create a victims ' fund allowing all women who were abused by Weinstein under certain circumstances to make claims for damages @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in February of sexual assault and rape and sentenced to 23 years in jail .
Once described as the most powerful man in Hollywood , his abuse of young actresses over many years was one of the main catalysts for the # MeToo movement .
The attorney general 's lawsuit was originally filed against Weinstein , his brother Bob Weinstein and the Weinstein Company in February 2018 as a result of a four-month investigation into the working culture at the business .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the settlement , Attorney General Letitia James said : `` Harvey Weinstein and the Weinstein Company failed their female employees .
After all the harassment , threats , and discrimination , these survivors are finally receiving some justice .
`` For more than two years , my office has fought tirelessly in the pursuit of justice for the women whose lives were upended by Harvey Weinstein .
`` This agreement is a win for every woman who has experienced sexual harassment , discrimination , intimidation , or retaliation by her employer .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ forward to share their stories with my office .
`` I will forever carry their stories in my heart and never stop fighting for the right of every single person to be able to work harassment-free . ''
However lawyers representing six of the women who have made accusations against Weinstein called the proposed deal a `` sellout '' that did not require him to accept responsibility or personally pay out any money .
The settlement is also considerably less than the more than 30 women who were represented in the 2017 class @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to his current conviction in New York , Weinstein is facing five more sexual assault charges in Los Angeles , although the extradition process has been delayed due to the impact of coronavirus on the courts processing paperwork .
And last month a new lawsuit was filed claiming he raped four additional women , one of whom was just 17 years old .

The New York attorney general's office says it has reached a $19m (£15m) settlement in sexual lawsuits against convicted rapist and former film producer Harvey Weinstein.
The payments, which need to be approved by bankruptcy and district courts, will resolve both the attorney general's legal action and a separate November 2017 class action brought on behalf of dozens of his alleged sexual misconduct victims.
If agreed, the settlement will create a victims' fund allowing all women who were abused by Weinstein under certain circumstances to make claims for damages confidentially.
The 68-year-old was found guilty in February of sexual assault and rape and sentenced to 23 years in jail.
Once described as the most powerful man in Hollywood, his abuse of young actresses over many years was one of the main catalysts for the #MeToo movement.
The attorney general's lawsuit was originally filed against Weinstein, his brother Bob Weinstein and the Weinstein Company in February 2018 as a result of a four-month investigation into the working culture at the business.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Reacting to the settlement, Attorney General Letitia James said: "Harvey Weinstein and the Weinstein Company failed their female employees. After all the harassment, threats, and discrimination, these survivors are finally receiving some justice.
"For more than two years, my office has fought tirelessly in the pursuit of justice for the women whose lives were upended by Harvey Weinstein.
Advertisement
"This agreement is a win for every woman who has experienced sexual harassment, discrimination, intimidation, or retaliation by her employer. I thank the brave women who came forward to share their stories with my office.
"I will forever carry their stories in my heart and never stop fighting for the right of every single person to be able to work harassment-free."
However lawyers representing six of the women who have made accusations against Weinstein called the proposed deal a "sellout" that did not require him to accept responsibility or personally pay out any money.
The settlement is also considerably less than the more than 30 women who were represented in the 2017 class action had been demanding.
In addition to his current conviction in New York, Weinstein is facing five more sexual assault charges in Los Angeles, although the extradition process has been delayed due to the impact of coronavirus on the courts processing paperwork.
And last month a new lawsuit was filed claiming he raped four additional women, one of whom was just 17 years old.


skynewsus--2020-07-01--US deaths from COVID-19 could be 28% higher than official figures

The actual number of coronavirus-related deaths in America could be significantly higher than official figures show , according to new research .
There have been almost 2.7 million confirmed COVID-19 cases in the US and more than 129,000 people who have tested positive for the virus have died .
Almost half a million new infections have been reported in the country in the last two weeks alone , and states which had begun to allow bars to reopen such as Texas and California are now closing them again , fearing a second wave of the pandemic .
But a new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the true figure for coronavirus deaths could be 28 % higher , based on their analysis of the total number of deaths recorded in the country from 1 March to 30 May .
There were about 781,000 fatalities across the US during those three months - 122,300 more than the historical average for that time of year .
Official tallies reported 95,235 deaths attributed to the virus during this period .
Researchers said most of the rest of the excess deaths - about 27,000 - were likely related to or directly caused by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ figures , there have been more deaths resulting from the pandemic in the US than in any other country .
Media reports suggest many early nursing home deaths or those attributed to pneumonia rather than COVID-19 may have contributed to an undercount .
`` Determining the cause of death on a death certificate is not an exact science , '' said Daniel Weinberger , the study 's lead author from the Yale School of Public Health .
`` It is possible that someone who had COVID-19 and that triggered pneumonia might have pneumonia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Whereas another jurisdiction might have COVID as the cause , '' he said .
`` The coding for what a person died from can vary a lot from person to person and jurisdiction to jurisdiction . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The researchers also said : `` Efforts to track the severity and public health impact of COVID-19 in the US have been hampered by state-level differences in diagnostic test availability . ''
In addition to the differences between states @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had `` differing strategies for prioritisation of individuals for testing '' and `` delays between testing and reporting '' also posed challenges for tracking the outbreak .
Their research warns the additional excess deaths might not just be due to the virus going undetected , but potentially by `` changes in population behaviour brought about by strict lockdown measures '' .
The research was published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine and is available here .
On Tuesday , the country 's top infectious diseases expert warned the US could soon see 100,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dr Anthony Fauci , director of the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases , told a US Senate committee that the daily surge in cases could more than double if Americans do n't start following public health recommendations .
`` I am very concerned because it could get very bad , '' he said .

The actual number of coronavirus-related deaths in America could be significantly higher than official figures show, according to new research.
There have been almost 2.7 million confirmed COVID-19 cases in the US and more than 129,000 people who have tested positive for the virus have died.
Almost half a million new infections have been reported in the country in the last two weeks alone, and states which had begun to allow bars to reopen such as Texas and California are now closing them again, fearing a second wave of the pandemic.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:07 US : 'Disturbing surge' in COVID-19 cases
But a new study by academics in the US suggests the true figure for coronavirus deaths could be 28% higher, based on their analysis of the total number of deaths recorded in the country from 1 March to 30 May.
There were about 781,000 fatalities across the US during those three months - 122,300 more than the historical average for that time of year.
Official tallies reported 95,235 deaths attributed to the virus during this period.
Researchers said most of the rest of the excess deaths - about 27,000 - were likely related to or directly caused by the coronavirus.
According to the official figures, there have been more deaths resulting from the pandemic in the US than in any other country.
Media reports suggest many early nursing home deaths or those attributed to pneumonia rather than COVID-19 may have contributed to an undercount.
Advertisement
"Determining the cause of death on a death certificate is not an exact science," said Daniel Weinberger, the study's lead author from the Yale School of Public Health.
"It is possible that someone who had COVID-19 and that triggered pneumonia might have pneumonia listed as the cause of death. Whereas another jurisdiction might have COVID as the cause," he said.
"The coding for what a person died from can vary a lot from person to person and jurisdiction to jurisdiction."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The researchers also said: "Efforts to track the severity and public health impact of COVID-19 in the US have been hampered by state-level differences in diagnostic test availability."
In addition to the differences between states in accessing diagnostic tests, they also had "differing strategies for prioritisation of individuals for testing" and "delays between testing and reporting" also posed challenges for tracking the outbreak.
Their research warns the additional excess deaths might not just be due to the virus going undetected, but potentially by "changes in population behaviour brought about by strict lockdown measures".
The research was published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine and is available here.
On Tuesday, the country's top infectious diseases expert warned the US could soon see 100,000 new cases of coronavirus every day.
Dr Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases, told a US Senate committee that the daily surge in cases could more than double if Americans don't start following public health recommendations.
"I am very concerned because it could get very bad," he said.


skynewsus--2020-07-01--California closes bars and indoor dining at restaurants after COVID-19 spike

The governor of California has announced more measures to combat the surge in coronavirus after another record-breaking day of cases in America 's most populous state .
Gavin Newsom confirmed that indoor activities at restaurants , wineries , cinemas , family entertainment centres , zoos and museums would be banned for the next three weeks .
Bars were ordered to close both indoor and outdoor operations .
The order applies to 19 of California 's 58 counties but they make up more than 70 % of the state 's population .
Many of California 's beaches will be closed for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Newsom says he is concerned that people will still be gathering for what is traditionally America 's biggest party weekend .
He said : `` A survey of public health officials identified their top concern as intimate gatherings where extended and immediate family members begin to mix and start to take down their guard . ''
`` Please do n't take your guard down , '' he urged .
Mr Newsom has also vowed to step up enforcement on establishments not taking the rules seriously .
Half of bars and a third of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enforcing social distancing protocols .
California , along with Texas , Florida and Arizona , has become the new epicentre of the US coronavirus outbreak .
Confirmed coronavirus cases in California rose by 8,441 on Tuesday , according to a Reuters news agency tally - the highest single-day increase since the pandemic began .
Officials in the state had been credited with acting early to issue stay-at-home orders during the pandemic but the re-opening plan has been derailed by the resurgence in cases .
And in Los Angeles County , which has seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ days , one mayor has criticised the move to close the beaches for the weekend .
Suzanne Hadley , mayor of the city of Manhattan Beach , said : `` I think everyone agrees on a few things . ''
`` We agree that the young and healthy are least likely to get COVID , we agree COVID is least likely to be transmitted outdoors and we know that the beach is a wide-open space with lots of social distancing .
`` To my mind it does not make a lot of sense @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the healthy go to gather . ''
Although young and healthy people are much less likely to die from coronavirus , several studies and experts - including the director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , Robert Redfield - have suggested that younger people have helped fuel the increase in COVID-19 infections .
Locals heading for the beach before the new lockdown takes effect on Friday also disagreed with Ms Hadley .
`` I feel that because the numbers are going up and more and more people are realising @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the beach and the pier is another wake-up call for us , '' said Olivia Apodaca .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Chris Howard said the closure should have come sooner .
`` Why not yesterday ?
Why not today ?
Why Friday ? ''
he said .
`` Some people are really conscientious and mask up but as each day goes by fewer people are being considerate .
`` They 're not scared any more and they ought to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Public health officials believe one contributing factor to the surge in cases is the large number of social gatherings that took place on America 's big holiday weekend , Memorial Day , at the end of May .
But businesses believe the rapid reversal of re-openings will be devastating for the economy .
Bill Cotter , whose family has owned Manhattan Shoe Repair for more than 80 years , said : `` You ca n't burn down your house because you 've got termites .
That 's not the answer .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or eight weeks , people have to have a way to make a living and they have to have a purpose in life . ''

The governor of California has announced more measures to combat the surge in coronavirus after another record-breaking day of cases in America's most populous state.
Gavin Newsom confirmed that indoor activities at restaurants, wineries, cinemas, family entertainment centres, zoos and museums would be banned for the next three weeks.
Bars were ordered to close both indoor and outdoor operations.
Image: Los Angeles County has seen a spike in cases
The order applies to 19 of California's 58 counties but they make up more than 70% of the state's population.
Many of California's beaches will be closed for the Independence Day weekend, but Mr Newsom says he is concerned that people will still be gathering for what is traditionally America's biggest party weekend.
He said: "A survey of public health officials identified their top concern as intimate gatherings where extended and immediate family members begin to mix and start to take down their guard."
"Please don't take your guard down," he urged.
Mr Newsom has also vowed to step up enforcement on establishments not taking the rules seriously. Half of bars and a third of restaurants have been found to not be enforcing social distancing protocols.
California, along with Texas, Florida and Arizona, has become the new epicentre of the US coronavirus outbreak.
Advertisement
Confirmed coronavirus cases in California rose by 8,441 on Tuesday, according to a Reuters news agency tally - the highest single-day increase since the pandemic began.
Image: Beaches will be closed for the Independence Day weekend
Officials in the state had been credited with acting early to issue stay-at-home orders during the pandemic but the re-opening plan has been derailed by the resurgence in cases.
And in Los Angeles County, which has seen a dramatic spike in cases in recent days, one mayor has criticised the move to close the beaches for the weekend.
Suzanne Hadley, mayor of the city of Manhattan Beach, said: "I think everyone agrees on a few things."
Image: Suzanne Hadley, mayor of the city of Manhattan Beach
"We agree that the young and healthy are least likely to get COVID, we agree COVID is least likely to be transmitted outdoors and we know that the beach is a wide-open space with lots of social distancing.
"To my mind it does not make a lot of sense to close the beaches where the young and the healthy go to gather."
Although young and healthy people are much less likely to die from coronavirus, several studies and experts - including the director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Robert Redfield - have suggested that younger people have helped fuel the increase in COVID-19 infections.
Locals heading for the beach before the new lockdown takes effect on Friday also disagreed with Ms Hadley.
"I feel that because the numbers are going up and more and more people are realising that they aren't dropping, closing the beach and the pier is another wake-up call for us," said Olivia Apodaca.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Chris Howard said the closure should have come sooner.
"Why not yesterday? Why not today? Why Friday?" he said. "Some people are really conscientious and mask up but as each day goes by fewer people are being considerate.
"They're not scared any more and they ought to be. It's a big deal."
Public health officials believe one contributing factor to the surge in cases is the large number of social gatherings that took place on America's big holiday weekend, Memorial Day, at the end of May.
But businesses believe the rapid reversal of re-openings will be devastating for the economy.
Image: Bill Cotter owns Manhattan Shoe Repair
Bill Cotter, whose family has owned Manhattan Shoe Repair for more than 80 years, said: "You can't burn down your house because you've got termites. That's not the answer.
"When you close things down for six or eight weeks, people have to have a way to make a living and they have to have a purpose in life."


skynewsus--2020-07-02--Uncertainty and fear fuel record surge in US gun ownership applications

The US has carried out the highest ever number of background checks on people wanting to buy or carry a gun , according to figures released by the FBI .
Gun ownership applications always increase in election years , but it is thought the current surge is also being fuelled by economic uncertainty caused by the coronavirus pandemic , civil rights protests and calls for a reduction in police funding .
The figures show that 3.9 million checks were carried out in June , the biggest ever monthly total since they were introduced in 1998 .
The previous highest monthly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ total 19 million checks have been carried out so far in 2020 .
The checks are meant to ensure criminals and other prohibited people can not buy or possess a gun and are a key barometer for gun sales , although each check could be for the sale of more than one firearm .
The FBI figures also include checks for permits in states that require them in order to carry a gun .
The National Shooting Sports Foundation ( NSSF ) , which represents gun manufacturers , says fear seems to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Director of public affairs for the group , Mark Oliva , said : `` Civil unrest , rioting , looting and calls to defund police are unquestionably motivating factors of why this trend is increasing .
`` Americans are right to be concerned for their personal safety . ''
He went on : `` Politicians who entertain notions of defunding police departments are the same ones who call for strict gun control and even outright confiscation .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They are representative of Americans from all walks of life who are taking action and taking responsibility for their rights and their safety . ''
This year has seen half of the 10 busiest ever days on record for gun sales and seven of the 10 busiest weeks .
The number of required background checks started to climb steadily as COVID-19 began to take a hold in the US and states issued stay-at-home orders .
Long queues formed outside some gun shops and people emptied shelves of ammunition .
The sense of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the death of George Floyd and protesters took to the streets demanding an end to racial inequality and police brutality .
Calls to defund the police have heightened fears in some sections of the community about being able to defend themselves if officers are unable to respond to calls .
The NSSF estimates that 40 % of all those trying to buy a gun have never owned a firearm before and gun control advocates say the industry is playing on people 's fears to drive sales .
Giffords is an American advocacy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ control .
It takes its name from Gabby Giffords , the former Democratic member of the US House of Representatives , who survived being shot in the head at a constituency meeting in Tucson in 2011 .
Its senior policy director David Chipman , himself a retired federal agent , said : `` I 'm extremely concerned about those people who , in this time of uncertainty and fear , have been sold on the gun industry narrative that in uncertain times , when you 're feeling out of control , your possession @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
He added that the increase in sales appeared to be more than a blip .
`` This can no longer be characterised as a spike .
This is a sustained uptick in sales that has continued for an unprecedented amount of months now . ''

The US has carried out the highest ever number of background checks on people wanting to buy or carry a gun, according to figures released by the FBI.
Gun ownership applications always increase in election years, but it is thought the current surge is also being fuelled by economic uncertainty caused by the coronavirus pandemic, civil rights protests and calls for a reduction in police funding.
The figures show that 3.9 million checks were carried out in June, the biggest ever monthly total since they were introduced in 1998. The previous highest monthly figure had been in March.
In total 19 million checks have been carried out so far in 2020.
The checks are meant to ensure criminals and other prohibited people cannot buy or possess a gun and are a key barometer for gun sales, although each check could be for the sale of more than one firearm.
The FBI figures also include checks for permits in states that require them in order to carry a gun.
The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), which represents gun manufacturers, says fear seems to be driving the surge in sales.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Director of public affairs for the group, Mark Oliva, said: "Civil unrest, rioting, looting and calls to defund police are unquestionably motivating factors of why this trend is increasing.
Advertisement
"Americans are right to be concerned for their personal safety."
He went on: "Politicians who entertain notions of defunding police departments are the same ones who call for strict gun control and even outright confiscation.
"These figures aren't push polls. They are representative of Americans from all walks of life who are taking action and taking responsibility for their rights and their safety."
This year has seen half of the 10 busiest ever days on record for gun sales and seven of the 10 busiest weeks.
The number of required background checks started to climb steadily as COVID-19 began to take a hold in the US and states issued stay-at-home orders. Long queues formed outside some gun shops and people emptied shelves of ammunition.
The sense of paranoia appeared to increase again in May after the death of George Floyd and protesters took to the streets demanding an end to racial inequality and police brutality.
Calls to defund the police have heightened fears in some sections of the community about being able to defend themselves if officers are unable to respond to calls.
The NSSF estimates that 40% of all those trying to buy a gun have never owned a firearm before and gun control advocates say the industry is playing on people's fears to drive sales.
Giffords is an American advocacy and research organisation focused on promoting gun control.
It takes its name from Gabby Giffords, the former Democratic member of the US House of Representatives, who survived being shot in the head at a constituency meeting in Tucson in 2011.
Image: Gabby Giffords at a gun safety forum in October 2019
Its senior policy director David Chipman, himself a retired federal agent, said: "I'm extremely concerned about those people who, in this time of uncertainty and fear, have been sold on the gun industry narrative that in uncertain times, when you're feeling out of control, your possession of a firearm will satisfy that fear."
He added that the increase in sales appeared to be more than a blip.
"This can no longer be characterised as a spike. This is a sustained uptick in sales that has continued for an unprecedented amount of months now."


skynewsus--2020-07-02--Seattle's 'lawless' protest zone cleared in dawn raids after two fatal shootings

Seattle police carried out a dawn raid to tear down the city 's `` occupied '' protest zone after the mayor ordered the area cleared following two fatal shootings in less than two weeks .
There were clashes between the police , many dressed in riot gear , and dozens of protesters at the Capitol Hill Occupied Protest ( Chop ) zone that was set up near the city centre following the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis .
Police swarmed the Chop zone at about 5am on Wednesday , arresting at least 32 people .
`` Our job @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has happened on these streets over the last two weeks is lawless and it 's brutal and bottom line it is simply unacceptable , '' police chief Carmen Best said .
Police tore down fences that protesters had erected around their tents and used batons to poke inside bushes , apparently looking for people who might be hiding inside .
One protest organiser , Derrek Allen Jones , said some had tried to stay put but were surprised by the early intervention by officers .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Spreaker '' People were trying to hold their ground but you could see the cops literally storm through people 's beds while they were sleeping and literally say 'If you do n't get out , we will force you out or arrest you ' , '' he said .
Most protesters appeared to have dispersed several hours after the operation started and armed officers looked on from rooftops as clean-up crews of workers arrived .
The protesters had occupied several blocks around a park for about two weeks calling for racial justice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A police station was also abandoned following standoffs and clashes .
Police said they moved in to protect the public after mayor Jenny Durkan issued the order for protesters to leave .
`` Since demonstrations at the East Precinct area began on June 8 , two teenagers have been killed and three people have been seriously wounded in late-night shootings , '' Seattle police said on Twitter .
`` Police have also documented robberies , assaults , and other violent crimes . ''
The tweet added that `` suspects in recent shootings may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because numerous people in the area are in possession of firearms '' .
Ms Best added : `` The Chop has become lawless and brutal .
`` Four shootings , two fatal , robberies , assaults , violence and countless property crimes have occurred in this several block area . ''
There had been mounting calls by critics , including president Donald Trump , to remove protesters following the fatal shootings .
Protesters have said they should not be blamed for the violence in the area .

Seattle police carried out a dawn raid to tear down the city's "occupied" protest zone after the mayor ordered the area cleared following two fatal shootings in less than two weeks.
There were clashes between the police, many dressed in riot gear, and dozens of protesters at the Capitol Hill Occupied Protest (Chop) zone that was set up near the city centre following the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis.
Police swarmed the Chop zone at about 5am on Wednesday, arresting at least 32 people.
"Our job is to support peaceful demonstration but what has happened on these streets over the last two weeks is lawless and it's brutal and bottom line it is simply unacceptable," police chief Carmen Best said.
Image: At least 32 people were arrested during the operation
Police tore down fences that protesters had erected around their tents and used batons to poke inside bushes, apparently looking for people who might be hiding inside.
One protest organiser, Derrek Allen Jones, said some had tried to stay put but were surprised by the early intervention by officers.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
"People were trying to hold their ground but you could see the cops literally storm through people's beds while they were sleeping and literally say 'If you don't get out, we will force you out or arrest you'," he said.
Most protesters appeared to have dispersed several hours after the operation started and armed officers looked on from rooftops as clean-up crews of workers arrived.
Advertisement
Image: A protester sits at a barrier near an entrance to the Chop area
The protesters had occupied several blocks around a park for about two weeks calling for racial justice and an end to police brutality.
A police station was also abandoned following standoffs and clashes.
Police said they moved in to protect the public after mayor Jenny Durkan issued the order for protesters to leave.
"Since demonstrations at the East Precinct area began on June 8, two teenagers have been killed and three people have been seriously wounded in late-night shootings," Seattle police said on Twitter.
"Police have also documented robberies, assaults, and other violent crimes."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:31 Inside Seattle's 'cop free zone'
The tweet added that "suspects in recent shootings may still be in the area, and because numerous people in the area are in possession of firearms".
Ms Best added: "The Chop has become lawless and brutal.
"Four shootings, two fatal, robberies, assaults, violence and countless property crimes have occurred in this several block area."
There had been mounting calls by critics, including president Donald Trump, to remove protesters following the fatal shootings.
Protesters have said they should not be blamed for the violence in the area.


skynewsus--2020-07-02--Headteachers self-isolate after exposure to coronavirus at school reopenings meeting

More than 40 headteachers from San Francisco have been told to self-isolate , after being exposed to coronavirus at an in-person meeting .
Despite the state-wide stay at home order in California , the Santa Clara County Unified School District held the face-to-face meeting last month to discuss arrangements for the reopening of classrooms in the area .
A few days after the meeting , someone who had been in the room and was not displaying any symptoms of COVID-19 , tested positive for coronavirus .
Stella Kemp , the district 's superintendent , confirmed the positive case at an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week , saying that the gathering had been required due to the `` complexity '' of their re-opening plan .
Ms Kemp added that the meeting was conducted under `` strict guidelines '' , and that as far as she is aware , no other attendees have tested positive for the virus .
`` I know there may be some that question every decision we make but the reality is there is no road map for this pandemic , '' she added .
The decision to hold an in-person meeting was challenged by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trustee Vickie Fairchild saying : `` I got calls from several educators who are a little panicked about the COVID exposure at the principals ' meeting .
`` I personally was surprised , because of what I 've heard other school districts doing , that we had a meeting of around 45 people when I think indoor meetings are recommended to be around 10 . ''
California is going through a record-breaking spike in coronavirus cases , and officials have begun to re-impose lockdown measures across the state .
: : Listen to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Beaches , bars and restaurants have all been closed down again by governor Gavin Newsom , as the state tries to get the outbreak back under control .
The US has become the epicentre of the global coronavirus outbreak , with more than 2.6 million confirmed cases and more than 128,000 virus-related deaths , according to Johns Hopkins University .

More than 40 headteachers from San Francisco have been told to self-isolate, after being exposed to coronavirus at an in-person meeting.
Despite the state-wide stay at home order in California, the Santa Clara County Unified School District held the face-to-face meeting last month to discuss arrangements for the reopening of classrooms in the area.
A few days after the meeting, someone who had been in the room and was not displaying any symptoms of COVID-19, tested positive for coronavirus.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:28 'I looked like the Lone Ranger' in a mask
Stella Kemp, the district's superintendent, confirmed the positive case at an online meeting of the school board last week, saying that the gathering had been required due to the "complexity" of their re-opening plan.
Ms Kemp added that the meeting was conducted under "strict guidelines", and that as far as she is aware, no other attendees have tested positive for the virus.
"I know there may be some that question every decision we make but the reality is there is no road map for this pandemic," she added.
The decision to hold an in-person meeting was challenged by others at the online gathering, with trustee Vickie Fairchild saying: "I got calls from several educators who are a little panicked about the COVID exposure at the principals' meeting.
"I personally was surprised, because of what I've heard other school districts doing, that we had a meeting of around 45 people when I think indoor meetings are recommended to be around 10."
California is going through a record-breaking spike in coronavirus cases, and officials have begun to re-impose lockdown measures across the state.
Advertisement
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Beaches, bars and restaurants have all been closed down again by governor Gavin Newsom, as the state tries to get the outbreak back under control.
The US has become the epicentre of the global coronavirus outbreak, with more than 2.6 million confirmed cases and more than 128,000 virus-related deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University.


skynewsus--2020-07-02--Officials take action over 'screeching' noise emanating from Golden Gate Bridge

Golden Gate Bridge officials have promised to take action after upgrades to the structure meant it began emitting a loud humming noise audible across San Francisco .
Repairs to the railings on the iconic California bridge were supposedly meant to let off a low-level noise as wind blew through them , but residents across the city have instead compared it to `` screeching '' and `` torture '' .
The `` hum '' can be heard on videos of the bridge from last month on social media , with one user saying the noise was `` trippy '' , adding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ it is ] unbearable it 's that loud . ''
Paolo Cosulich-Schwartz , from the Golden Gate Bridge District , earlier told local media that they knew the bridge would `` begin to hum '' when wind passed through it after its refit , adding : `` The new musical tones coming from the bridge are a known and inevitable phenomenon that stems from our wind retrofit project during very high winds . ''
However , the bridge 's chief engineer , Ewa Bauer-Furbush , rowed back on those comments , telling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had no idea that this would happen '' .
`` Dozens '' of complaints about the noise have been received by the commissioner of the Golden Gate Bridge District , who has announced that an investigation into how to muffle the noise is under way .
Officials from the district are speaking to consultants to discuss ways in which the noise can be made less intrusive , while collecting firm data on how and when it occurs .
It is thought that the new noise is only emitted when the wind speed is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ direction .
The Golden Gate Bridge , which was opened in 1937 , is being retrofitted to , ironically , help it withstand stronger wind conditions in the Bay Area in San Francisco , as well as install a new safety barrier .

Golden Gate Bridge officials have promised to take action after upgrades to the structure meant it began emitting a loud humming noise audible across San Francisco.
Repairs to the railings on the iconic California bridge were supposedly meant to let off a low-level noise as wind blew through them, but residents across the city have instead compared it to "screeching" and "torture".
The "hum" can be heard on videos of the bridge from last month on social media, with one user saying the noise was "trippy", adding: "It hurts the ears and [it is] unbearable it's that loud."
Paolo Cosulich-Schwartz, from the Golden Gate Bridge District, earlier told local media that they knew the bridge would "begin to hum" when wind passed through it after its refit, adding: "The new musical tones coming from the bridge are a known and inevitable phenomenon that stems from our wind retrofit project during very high winds."
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
However, the bridge's chief engineer, Ewa Bauer-Furbush, rowed back on those comments, telling a board meeting last week "we had no idea that this would happen".
"Dozens" of complaints about the noise have been received by the commissioner of the Golden Gate Bridge District, who has announced that an investigation into how to muffle the noise is under way.
Officials from the district are speaking to consultants to discuss ways in which the noise can be made less intrusive, while collecting firm data on how and when it occurs.
It is thought that the new noise is only emitted when the wind speed is high enough and blowing in a specific direction.
The Golden Gate Bridge, which was opened in 1937, is being retrofitted to, ironically, help it withstand stronger wind conditions in the Bay Area in San Francisco, as well as install a new safety barrier.


skynewsus--2020-07-02--Record US job surge of 4.8 million despite virus resurgence

The US economy created a record 4.8 million net new jobs last month as economists warn the country 's coronavirus recovery is at risk from a resurgence of infections .
Official figures - released a day earlier than usual because of a public holiday - showed a much bigger leap in re-hiring than financial markets than expected amid a continuing pick-up since April 's unprecedented collapse in employment .
The 4.8 million figure was the most jobs to be created in a single month since comparable records began in 1939 .
However , the milestone prompted caution among commentators of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waves of coronavirus clusters hit the populous states of Florida , Texas and California - prompting a resumption in local restrictions on movement and the closure of bars .
The new measures - and their effect on employment - were not recorded in June 's figures because the jobs data was measured much earlier in the month .
The figures showed the jobless rate falling to 11.1 % last month from just over 13 % in May as firms largely re-hired staff they had let go earlier with many getting support under a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stood at 14.7 % in April as the effect of the March lockdown on the US economy forced more than 20 million out of the workplace .

Donald Trump said the US economy was "roaring back" after new figures showed a record 4.8 million net jobs were created last month.
However, economists are warning the country's coronavirus recovery is at risk from a resurgence of infections.
Official figures - released a day earlier than usual because of a public holiday - showed a much bigger leap in re-hiring than financial markets expected amid a continuing pick-up since April's unprecedented collapse in employment.
Image: Donald Trump described the figures as 'historic'
Mr Trump said: "Today's announcement proves that our economy is roaring back. These are historic numbers."
The 4.8 million figure was the most jobs to be created in a single month since comparable records began in 1939, though re-hiring accounted for the bulk of the growth.
But the milestone also prompted caution among commentators that a more gradual improvement lay ahead as new waves of coronavirus clusters hit the populous states of Florida, Texas and California - prompting a resumption in local restrictions on movement.
The new measures - and their effect on employment - were not recorded in June's figures because the jobs data was measured much earlier in the month.
The figures showed the jobless rate falling to 11.1% last month from just over 13% in May.
The rate had stood at 14.7% in April as the effect of the March lockdown on the US economy forced more than 20 million out of the workplace and many into the arms of a government furlough-style scheme.
Advertisement
Image: Fed chair Jay Powell is cautious on the economic outlook
Millions did lose their jobs altogether as jobless benefit claims showed at the time.
Initial claims over the last week were measured at 1.43 million, down from 1.8 million in the previous seven days.
The chair of the US central bank admitted this week that the economic recovery, from what is expected to be a short but particularly sharp recession, had accelerated at a faster rate than expected.
However, Jay Powell cautioned his remarks by saying the outlook was "extraordinarily uncertain" and would depend on "our success in containing the virus".
Investors seized on the job figures as evidence of a so-called "V"-shaped recovery - with New York's Dow Jones climbing 1.6%, or more than 400 points, in early trading - though most of those gains faded by the close.
In Europe, the FTSE 100 also benefited from the improved US data with many of its constituent companies heavily exposed to America's economy. It closed more than 1.3% higher after the figures were released.
Image: Fed chair Jay Powell is cautious on the economic outlook
Seema Shah, chief strategist at Principal Global Investors, responded: "Today's number certainly adds to the growing evidence of a strengthening economy in early June.
"With all state-wide lockdown orders having been suspended by the time of the survey week, a labour market improvement makes sense.
"These numbers will inevitably take center stage ahead of the Congressional debate on the next round of coronavirus stimulus.
"However, the US government cannot claim victory just yet. High-frequency data suggests that the labour market strength had started to wane later in the month."
Paul Craig, portfolio manager at Quilter Investors, said: "The employment numbers coming out of the US look good on the surface with another month beating estimates, however, digging down it is clear we remain on shaky ground.
"The country is entrenched in battling what is still its first wave of the coronavirus and it is showing no signs of abating."


skynewsus--2020-07-02--Lone Ranger lookalike Donald Trump says 'face masks are good'

Donald Trump has insisted he would be willing to wear a face mask in public - saying they make him look like the Lone Ranger .
The president has so far refused to be seen wearing a face covering during the coronavirus outbreak , but during an interview with Fox Business he said he would have no problem with the idea .
In fact , he confirmed he has already worn one and liked the way it looked .
He said : `` It was okay .
It was a dark , black mask .
I think I looked okay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I have no problem with it , and if people feel good about it , they should do it . ''
Mr Trump also confirmed he had worn a face mask during some meetings - but that it was not always necessary because people are tested before they can go near him .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker He added : `` I 'm all for masks .
I think masks are good .
If I were in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I mean , people have seen me wearing one .
`` If I 'm in a group of people where we 're not , you know , 10ft away , but usually I 'm not in that position , and everyone 's tested because I 'm the president , they get tested before they see me .
`` But if I were in a tight situation with people , I would absolutely . ''
Mr Trump insisted face coverings should not become mandatory to curb the spread of COVID-19 , despite the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases and more than 128,000 deaths .
During a tour of the Ford factory in May , the president refused to wear a face mask for the cameras - even though an official warned he could be banned from visiting Michigan if he did so .
Mr Trump had been told all visitors must wear a face mask at the car maker 's sites , but he told reporters : `` I had one on before .
I wore one in the back area .
`` I did n't want to give the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ''

Donald Trump has insisted he would be willing to wear a face mask in public - saying they make him look like the Lone Ranger.
The president has so far refused to be seen wearing a face covering during the coronavirus outbreak, but during an interview with Fox Business he said he would have no problem with the idea.
In fact, he confirmed he has already worn one and liked the way it looked.
He said: "It was okay. It was a dark, black mask. I think I looked okay, I looked like the Lone Ranger.
Image: Clayton Moore in his days as the Lone Ranger - with his mask covering his eyes
"I have no problem with it, and if people feel good about it, they should do it."
Mr Trump also confirmed he had worn a face mask during some meetings - but that it was not always necessary because people are tested before they can go near him.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
He added: "I'm all for masks. I think masks are good. If I were in a group of people and I was close. I mean, people have seen me wearing one.
"If I'm in a group of people where we're not, you know, 10ft away, but usually I'm not in that position, and everyone's tested because I'm the president, they get tested before they see me.
Advertisement
"But if I were in a tight situation with people, I would absolutely."
Image: Presidential hopeful Joe Biden has been seen wearing a mask
Mr Trump insisted face coverings should not become mandatory to curb the spread of COVID-19, despite the US now having nearly 2.7 million confirmed cases and more than 128,000 deaths.
During a tour of the Ford factory in May, the president refused to wear a face mask for the cameras - even though an official warned he could be banned from visiting Michigan if he did so.
Mr Trump had been told all visitors must wear a face mask at the car maker's sites, but he told reporters: "I had one on before. I wore one in the back area.
"I didn't want to give the press the pleasure of seeing it."


skynewsus--2020-07-02--Ghislaine Maxwell played 'critical role' in helping Epstein groom victims - investigators

British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell has appeared in court after being charged with helping to lure underage girls who were then sexually abused by Jeffrey Epstein .
Maxwell , who has kept a low profile since Epstein 's death in August last year , was arrested by the FBI in Bradford , New Hampshire on Thursday on charges relating to her former boyfriend and long-time associate .
Maxwell , 58 , played a `` critical role '' in helping Epstein `` identify , befriend and groom minor victims for abuse '' , according to Audrey Strauss , acting US attorney for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is also alleged Maxwell took part in some of the abuse .
Appearing via video link during a 17-minute court hearing in Concord , New Hampshire , she did not enter a plea and answered Judge Andrea Johnston 's questions with either `` I do '' or `` I am aware '' .
The judge ordered she be transferred to the custody of US marshals in New York .
Ms Strauss earlier said at a news conference : `` Maxwell was among Epstein 's closest associates and helped him exploit girls who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` In some cases , Maxwell participated in the abuse herself . ''
A court filing claimed Maxwell , who has wealth , extensive international ties , three passports , and citizenship in two other countries , posed an `` extreme flight risk '' .
It said she had been hiding out in locations in New England since Epstein 's arrest last July and she faces up to 35 years in prison if convicted .
She had been living in a property in Bradford , New Hampshire , which she bought for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Ms Strauss claimed Epstein and Maxwell `` had a method '' , where Maxwell would allegedly befriend young girls and pretend to be taking an interest in them , before trying to normalise sexual abuse .
Maxwell had `` enticed and caused minor victims to travel to Epstein 's residence in different states '' and that Maxwell would assist in their `` grooming for and subjection to sexual abuse '' , federal prosecutors said in court papers .
Prosecutors claimed Maxwell was well aware of Epstein 's preference for underage girls , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them .
Disgraced financier Epstein , 66 , was accused of raping and trafficking underage girls over the course of nearly two decades .
Last year , Epstein was arrested in New York on charges of trafficking minors , but was found hanged in an apparent suicide in prison while awaiting trial .
Previously , he pleaded guilty in Florida to prostitution charges involving a minor , in a 2008 deal with prosecutors that was criticised as too lenient .
Some of Epstein 's alleged victims have claimed that Maxwell lured them into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abused by him and powerful friends .
Maxwell - the daughter of newspaper tycoon Robert Maxwell - was a former partner of Epstein , one of his closest associates and was also paid to manage his various properties .
She has denied any wrongdoing and said some of the claims against her were `` absolute rubbish '' .
Speaking at a news conference on Thursday , Ms Strauss said Maxwell had `` repeatedly lied '' about her involvement because the truth was `` almost unspeakable '' .
Ms Strauss claimed the socialite had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to trust her , then delivered them into the trap that she and Epstein had set for them '' .
One alleged victim of Epstein , Virginia Roberts Giuffre , has claimed that Maxwell arranged for her to have sex with Prince Andrew at the socialite 's London townhouse .
The Duke of York categorically denies he had any form of sexual contact or relationship with Ms Roberts .
US investigators said they would `` welcome '' having Prince Andrew in to talk with them , adding their `` doors remain open '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Maxwell says she `` assisted , facilitated and contributed to Jeffrey Epstein 's abuse of minor girls by , among other things , helping Epstein to recruit , groom , and ultimately abuse '' girls under the age of 18 .
The indictment included counts of conspiracy to entice minors to travel to engage in illegal sex acts , enticement of a minor to travel to engage in illegal sex acts , conspiracy to transport minors with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity , transportation of a minor with intent to engage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ counts of perjury .
According to the indictment , Maxwell attempted to befriend some of the alleged victims before their abuse , including by taking them to the cinema or shopping .
After gaining their trust , she would `` try to normalise sexual abuse for a minor victim by ... discussing sexual topics , undressing in front of the victim , being present when a minor victim was undressed , and/or being present for sex acts involving the minor victim and Epstein '' , the indictment says .
In some instances , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ girls and encourage them to take part in massages while they were fully or partially nude .
The alleged victims were abused in multiple locations , including Epstein 's homes in New York , Florida and Sante Fe , and Maxwell 's home in London , the indictment claims .
The documents allege Maxwell perjured herself by saying `` I do n't know what you 're talking about '' when asked if Epstein schemed to recruit underage girls for sexual massages .
She also said she was unaware Epstein was having sexual activities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two other people , while she was with him .
FBI New York assistant director William Sweeney said investigators had been `` discreetly keeping tabs '' on Maxwell 's whereabouts before her arrest .
`` More recently we learned she had slithered away to a gorgeous property in New Hampshire , continuing to live a life of privilege while her victims live with the trauma inflicted upon them years ago , '' he said .
He added : `` She befriended the innocent , attempted to normalise sexual abuse , and worked to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ entire time of the abuse that would follow . ''

British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell has appeared in court after being charged with helping to lure underage girls who were then sexually abused by Jeffrey Epstein.
Maxwell, who has kept a low profile since Epstein's death in August last year, was arrested by the FBI in Bradford, New Hampshire on Thursday on charges relating to her former boyfriend and long-time associate.
Maxwell, 58, played a "critical role" in helping Epstein "identify, befriend and groom minor victims for abuse", according to Audrey Strauss, acting US attorney for the southern district of New York.
It is also alleged Maxwell took part in some of the abuse.
Image: Ghislaine Maxwell has been arrested and charged. Pic: Clint Spaulding/WWD/Shutterstock
Appearing via video link during a 17-minute court hearing in Concord, New Hampshire, she did not enter a plea and answered Judge Andrea Johnston's questions with either "I do" or "I am aware".
The judge ordered she be transferred to the custody of US marshals in New York.
Ms Strauss earlier said at a news conference: "Maxwell was among Epstein's closest associates and helped him exploit girls who were as young as 14 years old.
"In some cases, Maxwell participated in the abuse herself."
A court filing claimed Maxwell, who has wealth, extensive international ties, three passports, and citizenship in two other countries, posed an "extreme flight risk".
Advertisement
It said she had been hiding out in locations in New England since Epstein's arrest last July and she faces up to 35 years in prison if convicted.
She had been living in a property in Bradford, New Hampshire, which she bought for $1m (£800,000) last December.
Ms Strauss claimed Epstein and Maxwell "had a method", where Maxwell would allegedly befriend young girls and pretend to be taking an interest in them, before trying to normalise sexual abuse.
Maxwell had "enticed and caused minor victims to travel to Epstein's residence in different states" and that Maxwell would assist in their "grooming for and subjection to sexual abuse", federal prosecutors said in court papers.
Prosecutors claimed Maxwell was well aware of Epstein's preference for underage girls, and that he intended to sexually abuse them.
Lawyer Brad Edwards represents dozens of Epstein's alleged victims. He says they are relieved by the arrest of Maxwell. "It's a long time coming and I've spoken with my clients today, some of whom had a lot of interactions with Ghislaine, and others who have none.
"But either way, all of them were extremely relieved. And to understand the importance of this particular arrest."
And he says he does not think Maxwell's arrest will be the last. "I think that you're going to see other people that along the way helped to facilitate enable these types of crimes to be committed. And I would not be surprised if some of these other people get indicted."
Disgraced financier Epstein, 66, was accused of raping and trafficking underage girls over the course of nearly two decades.
Last year, Epstein was arrested in New York on charges of trafficking minors, but was found hanged in an apparent suicide in prison while awaiting trial.
Previously, he pleaded guilty in Florida to prostitution charges involving a minor, in a 2008 deal with prosecutors that was criticised as too lenient.
Some of Epstein's alleged victims have claimed that Maxwell lured them into his circle, where they were sexually abused by him and powerful friends.
Maxwell - the daughter of newspaper tycoon Robert Maxwell - was a former partner of Epstein, one of his closest associates and was also paid to manage his various properties.
She has denied any wrongdoing and said some of the claims against her were "absolute rubbish".
Speaking at a news conference on Thursday, Ms Strauss said Maxwell had "repeatedly lied" about her involvement because the truth was "almost unspeakable".
Ms Strauss claimed the socialite had "enticed young girls, got them to trust her, then delivered them into the trap that she and Epstein had set for them".
Image: An image appearing to show Prince Andrew and a 17-year-old Virginia Roberts at Ghislaine Maxwell's house in London in March 2001. Pic: Rex/Shutterstock
One alleged victim of Epstein, Virginia Roberts Giuffre, has claimed that Maxwell arranged for her to have sex with Prince Andrew at the socialite's London townhouse.
The Duke of York categorically denies he had any form of sexual contact or relationship with Ms Roberts.
US investigators said they would "welcome" having Prince Andrew in to talk with them, adding their "doors remain open".
A now public court filing against Maxwell says she "assisted, facilitated and contributed to Jeffrey Epstein's abuse of minor girls by, among other things, helping Epstein to recruit, groom, and ultimately abuse" girls under the age of 18.
The indictment included counts of conspiracy to entice minors to travel to engage in illegal sex acts, enticement of a minor to travel to engage in illegal sex acts, conspiracy to transport minors with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, and two counts of perjury.
According to the indictment, Maxwell attempted to befriend some of the alleged victims before their abuse, including by taking them to the cinema or shopping.
After gaining their trust, she would "try to normalise sexual abuse for a minor victim by... discussing sexual topics, undressing in front of the victim, being present when a minor victim was undressed, and/or being present for sex acts involving the minor victim and Epstein", the indictment says.
In some instances, she would massage Epstein in front of girls and encourage them to take part in massages while they were fully or partially nude.
Image: Maxwell was a close friend and associate of Jeffrey Epstein
The alleged victims were abused in multiple locations, including Epstein's homes in New York, Florida and Sante Fe, and Maxwell's home in London, the indictment claims.
The documents allege Maxwell perjured herself by saying "I don't know what you're talking about" when asked if Epstein schemed to recruit underage girls for sexual massages.
She also said she was unaware Epstein was having sexual activities with anyone, other than her and two other people, while she was with him.
FBI New York assistant director William Sweeney said investigators had been "discreetly keeping tabs" on Maxwell's whereabouts before her arrest.
"More recently we learned she had slithered away to a gorgeous property in New Hampshire, continuing to live a life of privilege while her victims live with the trauma inflicted upon them years ago," he said.
He added: "She befriended the innocent, attempted to normalise sexual abuse, and worked to put victims at ease, aware the entire time of the abuse that would follow."


skynewsus--2020-07-02--Prince Andrew 'bewildered' by claims he hasn't offered to cooperate with Epstein inquiry

Prince Andrew 'bewildered ' by claims he has n't offered to cooperate with Epstein investigation Prince Andrew 'bewildered ' by claims he has n't offered to cooperate with Epstein investigation The duke was photographed with Jeffrey Epstein in New York 's Central Park in December 2010 Prince Andrew says he is `` bewildered '' by US justice officials ' claims that he has not offered to cooperate with their investigation into convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein .
Lawyers for the Duke of York said they have `` twice communicated '' with the US Department of Justice in the past month , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had no response '' .
It comes after Audrey Strauss , acting US attorney for the southern district of New York , said that she would `` welcome Prince Andrew coming in to talk with us '' , during a news conference held after the arrest of Epstein 's ex-girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell today .
The Duke of York has previously claimed to have reached out to the DOJ three times after US officials said he has been consistently unwilling to cooperate .
Prince Andrew has known Maxwell , the British socialite and daughter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her university days .
In his only television interview about his links to Epstein , she is mentioned over a dozen times .
It was Maxwell , Epstein 's girlfriend at the time , who introduced Prince Andrew to Epstein in 1999 , and it was because of her that Epstein spent time at royal properties , including Windsor Castle and Sandringham .
In the interview with the BBC , the prince said : `` Remember that it was his girlfriend that was the key element in this .
He was the , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to some extent in that aspect . ''
Prince Andrew also talked about organising for her , not a birthday party , but `` a straightforward shooting weekend '' at Sandringham , to which Epstein was invited .
Maxwell is also one of the main figures mentioned in the allegations made against Prince Andrew by Virginia Giuffre Roberts , who claims she was introduced to and subsequently had sex with the prince when she was 17-years-old .
Mrs Giuffre Roberts claims she met the prince during a trip to London with Maxwell and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meeting happened at Maxwell 's house .
She claims the photograph of her with Prince Andrew was taken at the house in Belgravia .
Ghislaine can be seen in the back of the photograph .
Prince Andrew has strenuously denied the claims .
In the interview , he said he had no recollection of meeting Mrs Giuffre Roberts .
During his interview in November , Prince Andrew confirmed the last time he saw Maxwell was last spring or summer , `` before July '' he said But he said they had not talked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had been arrested and was facing charges of sex trafficking .
Epstein 's victims have claimed that Maxwell was complicit in his behaviour .
When Prince Andrew was asked if he thought she had questions to answer about her role , the Prince said : `` If there are questions that Ghislaine has to answer , that 's her problem I 'm afraid , I 'm not in a position to be able to comment one way or the other . ''
Last month , Prince Andrew 's legal team released a statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ America that he was unwilling to talk to them regarding Epstein , saying he had offered to talk to them on three separate occasions .
They want to talk to the prince as a witness , not as a suspect .
The Duke of York 's legal representatives have said they are not commenting on this latest development regarding the arrest of Maxwell .

Today a prosecutor in New York said she would "welcome Prince Andrew coming to talk to us".
Prince Andrew 'bewildered' by claims he hasn't offered to cooperate with Epstein investigation
The duke was photographed with Jeffrey Epstein in New York's Central Park in December 2010
Prince Andrew says he is "bewildered" by US justice officials' claims that he has not offered to cooperate with their investigation into convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.
Lawyers for the Duke of York said they have "twice communicated" with the US Department of Justice in the past month, but "to date, we have had no response".
It comes after Audrey Strauss, acting US attorney for the southern district of New York, said that she would "welcome Prince Andrew coming in to talk with us", during a news conference held after the arrest of Epstein's ex-girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell today.
Image: An image appearing to show Prince Andrew and a 17-year-old Virginia Roberts at Ghislaine Maxwell's house in London in March 2001. Pic: Rex/Shutterstock
The Duke of York has previously claimed to have reached out to the DOJ three times after US officials said he has been consistently unwilling to cooperate.
Prince Andrew has known Maxwell, the British socialite and daughter of media tycoon Robert Maxwell, since her university days.
In his only television interview about his links to Epstein, she is mentioned over a dozen times.
It was Maxwell, Epstein's girlfriend at the time, who introduced Prince Andrew to Epstein in 1999, and it was because of her that Epstein spent time at royal properties, including Windsor Castle and Sandringham.
Image: Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell on a pheasant shoot with Prince Andrew at the Queen's Sandringham estate in Norfolk in 2000. Pic: Albanpix/Shutterstock
In the interview with the BBC, the prince said: "Remember that it was his girlfriend that was the key element in this. He was the, as it were, plus one, to some extent in that aspect."
Prince Andrew also talked about organising for her, not a birthday party, but "a straightforward shooting weekend" at Sandringham, to which Epstein was invited.
Advertisement
Maxwell is also one of the main figures mentioned in the allegations made against Prince Andrew by Virginia Giuffre Roberts, who claims she was introduced to and subsequently had sex with the prince when she was 17-years-old.
Mrs Giuffre Roberts claims she met the prince during a trip to London with Maxwell and Epstein in 2001, and that the meeting happened at Maxwell's house.
She claims the photograph of her with Prince Andrew was taken at the house in Belgravia. Ghislaine can be seen in the back of the photograph.
Prince Andrew has strenuously denied the claims. In the interview, he said he had no recollection of meeting Mrs Giuffre Roberts.
Image: Virginia Roberts Giuffre claims Ghislaine Maxwell arranged for her to have sex with Prince Andrew at Maxwell's London house
During his interview in November, Prince Andrew confirmed the last time he saw Maxwell was last spring or summer, "before July" he said
But he said they had not talked about Epstein, who at the time had been arrested and was facing charges of sex trafficking.
Epstein's victims have claimed that Maxwell was complicit in his behaviour.
When Prince Andrew was asked if he thought she had questions to answer about her role, the Prince said: "If there are questions that Ghislaine has to answer, that's her problem I'm afraid, I'm not in a position to be able to comment one way or the other."
Last month, Prince Andrew's legal team released a statement denying allegations from law enforcement agencies in America that he was unwilling to talk to them regarding Epstein, saying he had offered to talk to them on three separate occasions.
They want to talk to the prince as a witness, not as a suspect.
The Duke of York's legal representatives have said they are not commenting on this latest development regarding the arrest of Maxwell.


skynewsus--2020-07-02--Trump officials to hand out 300,000 masks at White House Fourth of July fireworks

Donald Trump is hosting the largest Fourth of July firework display `` in recent memory '' this weekend - despite a record rise in US coronavirus cases .
Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser does not have the power to shut down the event because it is being held on White House grounds .
But he claims the annual event is not in keeping with current state COVID-19 guidelines .
White House officials will hand out 300,000 facemasks for anyone who wants to attend the event - but no one will be required to wear them by law , according to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said that while face coverings are `` likely '' to reduce the spread of coronavirus , they are `` not mandatory in themselves '' .
Interior Secretary David Bernhardt promised a `` one-of-a-kind air show '' , featuring a mile-long firing of 100,000 fireworks - the largest display in `` recent memory '' , he said .
The news of this weekend 's event on the National Mall comes after the US reported its biggest single-day increase in new virus cases - 50,700 .
The alarming spike in cases saw California governor Gavin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ indoor restaurant dining across most of the state just ahead of the Independence Day weekend .
Florida , Arizona and Texas are also being hit hard with the threat of another lockdown looming .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker But Mr Trump continues to suggest the US is on top of the pandemic .
He told Fox News : `` I think we are going to be very good with the coronavirus .
I think that , at some point , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disappear , I hope . ''
Mr Trump and first lady Melania are hosting the military display over the White House south lawn on Saturday , the day after they attend a separate firework display and public gathering in Mount Rushmore , South Dakota .

Donald Trump is hosting the largest Fourth of July firework display "in recent memory" this weekend - despite a record rise in US coronavirus cases.
Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser does not have the power to shut down the event because it is being held on White House grounds.
But he claims the annual event is not in keeping with current state COVID-19 guidelines.
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
White House officials will hand out 300,000 facemasks for anyone who wants to attend the event - but no one will be required to wear them by law, according to White House spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany.
She said that while face coverings are "likely" to reduce the spread of coronavirus, they are "not mandatory in themselves".
Interior Secretary David Bernhardt promised a "one-of-a-kind air show", featuring a mile-long firing of 100,000 fireworks - the largest display in "recent memory", he said.
The news of this weekend's event on the National Mall comes after the US reported its biggest single-day increase in new virus cases - 50,700.
The alarming spike in cases saw California governor Gavin Newsom shut down bars, cinemas and indoor restaurant dining across most of the state just ahead of the Independence Day weekend.
Florida, Arizona and Texas are also being hit hard with the threat of another lockdown looming.
Advertisement
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
But Mr Trump continues to suggest the US is on top of the pandemic.
He told Fox News: "I think we are going to be very good with the coronavirus. I think that, at some point, that's going to sort of just disappear, I hope."
Mr Trump and first lady Melania are hosting the military display over the White House south lawn on Saturday, the day after they attend a separate firework display and public gathering in Mount Rushmore, South Dakota.


skynewsus--2020-07-02--US suffers record daily COVID-19 cases as Trump says it will 'sort of just disappear'

The United States has recorded its biggest single-day increase in new coronavirus cases , with more than 50,000 people testing positive for the first time .
A total of 50,700 new COVID-19 cases were registered across the country on Wednesday , according to a tally kept by Johns Hopkins University , with a number of states struggling to control its spread .
Rapidly growing numbers of cases in California prompted governor Gavin Newsom to shut down bars , cinemas and indoor restaurant dining over most of the state just ahead of the Fourth of July weekend .
`` The bottom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continues at a rate that is particularly concerning , '' Mr Newsom said .
The number of cases in California has increased by nearly 50 % over the past two weeks , and coronavirus-related hospital admissions have risen by 43 % .
California is among a host of states being ravaged by the pandemic , including Florida , Arizona and Texas .
Florida recorded more than 6,500 new cases and counties in the south of the state were closing beaches to deter large crowds .
`` Too many people were crowding into restaurants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into breeding grounds for this deadly virus , '' Miami-Dade mayor Carlos Gimenez said .
Despite the US suffering by far the highest number of infections and deaths in the world , President Donald Trump suggested the coronavirus crisis would soon subside .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' I think we are going to be very good with the coronavirus .
I think that , at some point , that 's going to sort of just disappear , I hope @ @ @ @ @ @ @ news channel .
He continued to present an optimistic outlook during a news conference on new US job figures , saying of the virus : `` It 's got a life .
And we 're putting out that life .
Because that 's a bad life that we 're talking about . ''
The country has reported nearly 2.7 million cases and more than 128,000 deaths .
There have been 10.7 million coronavirus cases and more than 516,000 deaths across the world , according to Johns Hopkins ' count .
However , experts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is significantly higher , partly because of limited testing and mild cases that have been missed .

The United States has recorded its biggest single-day increase in new coronavirus cases, with more than 50,000 people testing positive for the first time.
A total of 50,700 new COVID-19 cases were registered across the country on Wednesday, according to a tally kept by Johns Hopkins University, with a number of states struggling to control its spread.
Rapidly growing numbers of cases in California prompted governor Gavin Newsom to shut down bars, cinemas and indoor restaurant dining over most of the state just ahead of the Fourth of July weekend.
Image: Donald trump said 'we are going to be very good' with the virus
"The bottom line is the spread of this virus continues at a rate that is particularly concerning," Mr Newsom said.
The number of cases in California has increased by nearly 50% over the past two weeks, and coronavirus-related hospital admissions have risen by 43%.
California is among a host of states being ravaged by the pandemic, including Florida, Arizona and Texas.
Florida recorded more than 6,500 new cases and counties in the south of the state were closing beaches to deter large crowds.
"Too many people were crowding into restaurants late at night, turning these establishments into breeding grounds for this deadly virus," Miami-Dade mayor Carlos Gimenez said.
Despite the US suffering by far the highest number of infections and deaths in the world, President Donald Trump suggested the coronavirus crisis would soon subside.
Advertisement
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"I think we are going to be very good with the coronavirus. I think that, at some point, that's going to sort of just disappear, I hope," he told the Fox Business news channel.
He continued to present an optimistic outlook during a news conference on new US job figures, saying of the virus: "It's got a life. And we're putting out that life. Because that's a bad life that we're talking about."
The country has reported nearly 2.7 million cases and more than 128,000 deaths.
There have been 10.7 million coronavirus cases and more than 516,000 deaths across the world, according to Johns Hopkins' count.
However, experts believe the true toll of the pandemic is significantly higher, partly because of limited testing and mild cases that have been missed.