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On Tuesday, President-elect Joe Biden said he will sign a federal mask mandate on day one of his administration. He is looking to layout his 100-day plan to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Biden said, “I’m absolutely convinced that in 100 days we can change the course of the disease and change life in America for the better. In my first 100 days, I’m going to ask for a masking plan. Everyone for the first 100- days of my administration to wear a mask. The mask mandate would be enforced wherever possible under the law”. He also introduced key health advisors in his incoming administration. The supposed plan will include federal buildings, interstate travel, and other jurisdictions controlled by the federal government. States would likely hold the power to mandate, or not mandate masks in their own jurisdictions.

Biden also said, “100 days to make a difference. It’s not a political statement, it’s a patriotic act”. Point to be noted that wearing a mask became a political statement under the Trump administration. He repeatedly refused to issue any mandate that would require people to wear a face shield during the pandemic. Many states already have their own mask mandates for residents in accordance with health guidelines. But some state governors have refused to issue those mandates and claimed that it impeded citizen’s rights. Biden vowed that on day one he would follow the science when dealing with the pandemic. Health officials have found wearing a mask can help curb the spread of the novel virus. The mask mandate was one part of Biden’s 3-part Covid-19 initiative for the first 100-days of his presidency.

President-elect also said, “Masking, vaccinations, opening schools. These are the 3 key objectives for my first 100-days”. His plans for the coronavirus vaccine was to get 100 million shots into the arms of Americans within the first 100-days. The recent move came as the Food and Drug Administration announced it found Pfizer’s initial data from its human vaccine trials to be correct and it was 95% effective in preventing someone from getting Covid-19. Three 3 pharmaceutical companies including Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca could have emergency authorization from the FDA. Biden warned and said, “Our preliminary review of Trump administration vaccine distribution plans confirms media reports, without urgent action by this Congress this month. There is a real chance that after an early round of vaccinations, the effort will slow and stall”.