Reckless self interest endangers others' health

Republican state Reps. Darren Bailey, Andrew Chesney, John Cabello and Joe Sosnowski should hang their heads low in shame with their recent attack on Gov. Pritzker's quarantine order, because it exposes their lack of concern for the health and welfare of the citizens of Illinois.

Their reckless behavior and lawsuits against the quarantine order put many people at an unnecessary risk by trying to normalize business as usual against the medical experts' advice and scientific research on the effects of COVID-19. Their actions expose a recent trend of Republicans prioritizing the economy before a two-week decline in the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths.

It is as simple as saying that they are putting their self interests and money before the health of the citizens of Illinois; especially seniors. We need to realize that if we are not well enough, we can't go out to work or conduct business as usual.

The recent example of the success in New Zealand is the perfect reason why we need to consistently stay at home until we are able to control the growth of this virus: the number of cases and most importantly the number of deaths. The Republican Party used to be the party of law and order, but since President Trump has mesmerized them, they have demonstrated a very cavalier attitude toward the COVID-19 pandemic and our government; not quarantining early enough, increasing the national debt, and favoring big business.

It is time we, as citizens of Illinois and the United States, stand up to this hypocrisy and demand that all government officials recognize the need for a quarantine and to obey the rules governing its effectiveness. Stop politicizing this health crisis, and spread the hope that we will get through this soon.

James P. Menconi

Mount Prospect