The Guardian

Politicians and face masks: the winners and losers

Even Donald Trump and Jair Bolsonaro have accepted that wearing a face covering in return for saving thousands of lives works. But who nailed the look – and who was left with egg on their face?Coronavirus – latest updatesSee all our coronavirus coverage
Gove, Sturgeon and Trump … rocking the look. Composite: Getty Images/PA /AP

Most politicians – indeed, most adults – have come round to the idea that putting up with having a bit of fabric on your face in exchange for saving thousands of lives is a good deal. (Except for Ann Widdecombe, who is continuing to be Ann Widdecombe.)

There were numerous examples of politicians, many of whom are the actual leaders of their nations, struggling to put a mask on. Given that most now have read the memo that there’s a raging pandemic, here’s how the political mask scene is looking.

Donald Trump

Donald Trump looking particularly presidential.
Donald Trump looking particularly presidential. Photograph: Jim Watson/AFP/Getty Images

Trump’s mask is a rather smart one, with the White House logo on it. Presumably, this is: a) so he can find his way home, and b) because he may only have a matter of months left there, and he wants to make the most of it. I am even if he is voted out, though. (I’m also not convinced he will be voted out, but that’s another piece.)

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