Trump Says Democrats Want to Keep the Country Closed to Gain Advantage in 2020 Election

President Donald Trump has claimed that his political opponents want to keep the U.S. economy shut down until the presidential election in November for political reasons. Trump spoke to Fox Business’ Maria Bartiromo in an interview that aired on Thursday.

Trump again disagreed with Dr. Anthony Fauci, saying that the schools and the economy had to open. He also reiterated talking points about how closing the country down was more harmful than the pandemic – this idea has been pushed by his media allies.

“We have to open our country. We have no choice. People are dying this way too,” he said.

“Do you think your critics want you to keep it closed going into the election?” Bartiromo asked.

“I do,” Trump said. “I think it’s a political thing in addition.”

Trump was clearly referring to the Democrats, who have been consistent in their messaging on the need for Covid-19 restrictions. Republicans, on the other hand, have been mixed, with many railing against lockdowns.

The President went on to defend his position on reopening amid mounting Coronavirus deaths,

“The people that want to see the right thing happen, they agree with me. We have to get our country open. If it was up to some people, let’s keep it close for a long time, OK? A long time and watch the United States down the tubes. It’s never going to happen in my watch.”

Watch the video above, via Fox Business.