The Microsoft founder and business magnate gave the stark warning as the country set records for confirmed COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths over a seven-day period.
During an interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper on Sunday, Dec. 13, Gates also warned that there could be more than 200,000 new COVID-19 deaths over the next few months. But most of those deaths could be avoided by following protocols like wearing face masks and practicing social distancing, added Gates.
“So in the near term, it’s bad news.”
Gates expressed his support for controversial coronavirus restrictions, such as California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s new regional lockdowns that took effect on Dec. 6. The lockdown orders drew criticism, with a few small business owners going on strike to protest the orders.
Bar and restaurant owners were hit hardest by the lockdowns, which included a ban on outdoor dining. Most small, independent food establishments have been relying on outdoor dining to keep their doors open.
Nonetheless, Gates said it’s only “appropriate” that bars and restaurants throughout the country be closed as the new wave approaches. “[You] don’t want somebody that you love to be the last to die from coronavirus.”...<<<Read The Full Article Here>>>...