Fauci, who has served as director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases for more than three decades, appeared on CBS on Sunday, describing Noem’s remarks as ‘unfortunate’.
“It’s not really useful. Because sometimes you think it’s going well, and just look at the numbers. They are not lying, ‘he said, adding:’ I’m sure you can get a standing ovation by saying I’m wrong. ‘
Public health experts have criticized Noem’s relatively few coronavirus – related limitations and broader pandemic response in South Dakota, where per capita deaths have increased in one of the least populous countries. More than 512,000 Americans died in the pandemic.
But Noem, who appeared immediately after Fauci on ‘Face the Nation’ on Sunday, defends her handling of the crisis, saying that she gives South Dakotans’ personal responsibility for decisions for the health of their families, but also gives them the necessary flexibility. to keep their businesses open. ”
“South Dakota is doing well,” Noem said. “We’ve had some tragic situations, but I know that respectfully in my role, in the authority I have as governor, it has been incredibly helpful to get our state through this difficult time.”