Idaho governor repeals "irresponsible" mask mandate ban issued while he was out of town

Idaho Governor Brad Little repealed an executive order that prohibits the enforcement of mask mandates in the state, calling it "an irresponsible, self-serving political stunt," according to a statement the Republican released Friday.

The face mask ban was signed by Lieutenant Governor Janice McGeachin, also a Republican, while Little was out of town.

"An executive order that was issued while I was out of state this week runs contrary to a basic conservative principle – the government closest to the people governs best," said Little said in his statement.

"I do not like petty politics. I do not like political stunts over the rule of law."

In McGeachin's order, political subdivisions like public schools would be prohibited in Idaho from mandating face masks. It followed a similar executive order in Texas which has barred most government entities from requiring face masks.

At: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/mask-mandate-idaho-repeal/

Idaho Governor Brad Little endures a recent speech by Lieutenant Governor Janice McGeachin.

McGeachin's order barring public institutions from mandating face masks, signed while Gov. Little was out of state, was likely unconstitutional according to the Idaho Attorney General’s office.

McGeachin, a Trump ideologue, is seeking the governor's office in Idaho elections next year.