Comedian Adam Carolla didn't hold back when he took a shot at California Governor Gavin Newsom during a brief cable news exchange before Thursday's presidential debate.
Carolla, known for his libertarian views and signature deadpan delivery, grilled Newsom, asking, “If you didn't know anything, why did you shut the beaches down?” He continued, incredulously, “You arrested a guy who was paddleboarding in the bay. Any science behind that? Why'd you shut down outdoor dining? Based on science you didn't have?”
Newsom's responses were less than desirable, adding to the controversy surrounding his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and talk about President Biden passing the torch to a more capable politician. (RELATED: Popular Liberal Comedian Changes Stance, Considers Voting For Trump)
California's Beach Restrictions During the Pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, California implemented a series of strict restrictions to curb the spread of the virus. These measures included significant restrictions on beach access, particularly in the early stages of the pandemic and during significant surges in cases. (RELATED: California Weighs Law Requiring Speed Limiters On All New Vehicles)
Key Actions Taken Regarding Beaches:
- Initial Closures: In March 2020, when the first stay-at-home order was issued, many beaches across California were closed to prevent large gatherings and encourage social distancing.
- Gradual Reopening with Restrictions: By late spring and early summer of 2020, beaches began to reopen with specific restrictions in place, such as prohibitions on sunbathing and lounging, limits on beach activities to walking, running, swimming and surfing, social distancing and mask-wearing requirements and closure of parking lots to limit the number of visitors.
- Temporary Reclosures: During surges in COVID-19 cases, especially around major holidays like the Fourth of July, Labor Day and Memorial Day, some beaches were temporarily closed again to prevent overcrowding and potential virus spread.
- Local Variations: Restrictions and closures varied by county and city, with some local governments implementing stricter measures based on local COVID-19 case rates and public health considerations.
Newsom's French Laundry Controversy
Adding fuel to the fire, Newsom found himself embroiled in controversy in November 2020, following his attendance at an indoor dinner party at the French Laundry, a high-end restaurant in Napa Valley.
At the time, Newsom's administration had issued strict guidelines discouraging large gatherings and emphasizing the need for social distancing.
Photos from the dinner showed Newsom and other attendees seated closely together without masks, further emphasizing their disregard for the statewide enforced public health measures.
In response to the backlash, Newsom publicly apologized, acknowledging that he made a “bad mistake” and that he should have “modeled better behavior.”
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