Waukesha County Exec Says Governor's Mask Order 'Goes Too Far'

WAUKESHA, WI — A day after Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow said his county would not pursue a mask mandate, Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers issued an executive order mandating mask usage across the state. Farrow characterized the order as "going too far" but encouraged residents to follow the governor's order.

“Waukesha County has an active and aggressive response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the community’s health and safety are my top priorities. However, the Governor’s Emergency Order to mandate mask-wearing goes too far," Farrow said in a statement late Thursday.

"While Waukesha County supports and actively promotes masks and face coverings as a tool to stop the spread of the virus, a government mandate will create many more issues that will not only make it more difficult to respond to the pandemic, the unenforceability of the order undermines existing laws, and overreach from the state erodes public trust in the government."

Farrow said Many residents have valid concerns about how the statewide mandate infringes on their personal freedoms.

"Some parts of the Governor’s order mandates mask usage even at times that social distancing may be more practical and less invasive. At this time of historically low faith in the government, these issues have a marked impact on individuals who value their freedom of choice. That is why, while Waukesha County encourages all residents to follow public health guidelines to stop the spread of COVID-19, including wearing a mask when social distancing is not possible,” Farrow said in a statement.