PBS News Hour

How wearing a face mask became politically fraught

As several states experience surges in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, the debate over wearing face masks is creating a sharp divide. Nearly everyone in the public health community says masks worn in crowded places can help slow coronavirus spread -- but for some Americans, they are perceived as an affront. William Brangham reports and talks to Dr. Ranit Mishori of Georgetown University.

How wearing a face mask became politically fraught

8m 18s

  • May 12, 2025 - PBS News Hour full episode: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    May 12, 2025 - PBS News Hour full episode

    S2025 E132 - 57m 46s

    Monday on the News Hour, global markets surge as the United States and China announce a deal to roll back steep tariffs, for now. Hamas releases the last living American hostage held in Gaza in what's being described as a gesture of goodwill toward the Trump administration. Plus, the president signs an executive order attempting to lower drug prices in line with what other countries pay.

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