The Press Herald’s stories about vaccination mandates consistently give front-page hype to protesting minorities, exaggerating opposition. Meanwhile, it ignores the American public’s high levels of approval of mandates.
A June-July poll by four universities found that 64 percent of those surveyed wanted the government to require everyone to get vaccinated, including a healthy share of Republicans.
More recent polls targeted on vaccination needed for specific venues show 61 percent approval of vaccination required for air travel; 53 percent approval for restaurant dining; 56 percent approval for offices or work sites, and 60 percent approval for mandatory vaccination for high school students.
Press Herald headlines sensationalizing minority protests mislead its readers. A story about a protest by some 300 people opposed to the state’s vaccination mandate for medical workers briefly noted that “many” – but not all – of the group were health care professionals.
Amid the delta variant surge, a poll this month found that, after the Food and Drug Administration gave full approval to the Pfizer vaccine, the share of those who say they will not get vaccinated fell from 24 to 19 percent. Among vaccinated Americans, 81 percent say they have or intend to get a booster shot.
The strong partisan polarization in these polls also goes underreported. The divide began with the former president’s reckless opposition to mandates, masks and wacky views on vaccines. It continues, fed by red state politicians who cater to or fear the “Donald Trump base.”
The Press Herald is an asset to the city and state. In no way should it offer aid to the refuseniks.
Ron Formisano
Chebeague Island
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