LAGUNA BEACH, CA — In a video posted to social media last week, Michelle Steel’s Emergency Medical Commissioner Dr. Jeff Barke brandished a firearm in a rambling anti-mask video where he claimed a gun provides more protection against coronavirus than a mask. Steel has yet to respond.
Dr. Barke, who has been very outspoken about his dangerous anti-mask views for months, is a close personal advisor of Michelle Steel.
Congressman Harley Rouda issued the following statement reacting to the video and Steel’s silence:
“Michelle Steel, and the company she keeps, is dangerous for Orange County. Instead of listening to experts who made clear that common-sense policies like face mask orders would save lives and livelihoods, Chair Steel sought the counsel of a man who touts QAnon talking points and fringe conspiracy theories.
Chair Steel’s implementation of Jeff Barke’s COVID-19 policies has cost our community neighbors, parents, and children. Small businesses have shuttered because Michelle Steel silenced science. Working families are out of work because Michelle Steel listened to an extremist instead of experts.
Shame on Michelle Steel for legitimizing individuals amplifying QAnon, an FBI designated domestic terror threat.”
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