"Lead Author Challenges DeSantis' Interpretation of COVID Study in Newsom Debate"

During a debate, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis cited a Lancet study to claim Florida managed COVID-19 better than California, adjusting for age and chronic illness prevalence. However, the study's lead author, Thomas J. Bollyky, clarified that the study does not support the dismissal of public health measures like masks and vaccines. Bollyky emphasized that Florida's early aggressive policies and continued health-conscious behaviors among Floridians contributed to the state's performance. The study also found no correlation between strict health mandates and negative economic impacts across states. Critics argue that DeSantis's current stance on vaccines and masks contradicts the early actions that helped Florida during the pandemic.