Melania Trump sparked fury after she completed her last annual visit to Children's National Hospital on Wednesday. She arrived at the venue with her facial mask but removed it later on when she sat down to read a book in front of two children.
People reported that several individuals slammed and criticized her for breaking the hospital's policies and protocols amid the pandemic crisis. As pointed out, the hospital requires visitors to wear a mask to prevent the further spread of COVID-19.
The critics took their outrage to social media, particularly in the comment section of the First Lady's post about the visit. She received mockeries and criticisms from netizens as her photos feature her in front of her audience without a mask.
You should "wear a mask," one critic posted, whose tweet has since obtained more than 70 likes. "Glad you took your mask off," another netizen sarcastically said.
Melania Trump's "new campaign is 'Be Worst'," a different Twitter user stated, adding that everyone is thankful that she will be soon gone. The user, also, added the hashtags, "Be Gone" and "Bye Melania."
"Where is your mask, Einstein," another one posted. "Why did you take your mask off against the rules of the hospital," a commentator rhetorically asked, noting that her actions were "beyond irresponsible."
Today, I was grateful to return to @ChildrensNatl to read an inspiring Christmas story & play a game safely with the children. During all of my visits, I have felt the children’s warmth, seen the joy in their eyes & the bright smiles on their faces. #MerryChristmas pic.twitter.com/rcOFmaYFwY — Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) December 16, 2020
Following all the criticisms and discussions, CNN reached out for a comment from Melania Trump and the East Wing. The White House did not immediately release a statement but, officials issued a readout of the event later on Tuesday.
Based on the explanation, "wearing a mask is not required" when a visitor is giving a speech for an audience. This comes with reservations, however, that the audience should not be within six feet from the speaker.
The statement continued that the First Lady observed a more-than-12-feet distance from others. It, also, clarified that the event, which was broadcasted to 325 patients in their respective hospital rooms, "followed these guidelines."
Despite all the mockery and fury, there are still those who praised and commended Melania Trump. Through her posts on Twitter, her fans and followers shared their adoration for the First Lady, as well as their support.
You are the "greatest First Lady ever," one supporter replied. "Thank you," another fan said, referring to her as "ma'am."
Melania, "you have done a great job," a different netizen tweeted. You are a "true class," a follower added, stating that many hope for them to stick around for another four years inside the White House.
