The recent increase in COVID-19 cases has again brought the virus into the spotlight, reigniting discussions about vaccines, lockdowns and mask mandates. As new variants emerge and a new vaccine rollout is imminent, the familiar debates between Democrats and Republicans have resurfaced.

Straight Arrow News contributor Jordan Reid looks back at America’s initial response to COVID-19, which generated considerable anxiety, and wonders who is gaining from the ongoing message of fear.

I am not a COVID-denier. Not at all. I believe in public health. I believe in vaccines. But I also believe in paying attention to who exactly is profiting from this never-ending cycle of fear that is shoved in our faces 24-7. Amazon? Yeah. Pharmaceutical companies? Obviously.

All I’m saying is that sometimes it’s okay to set aside your political affiliation for a second and just think for yourself about what you believe to be right and what you believe to be true. Ask questions instead of parroting talking points someone else fed you. It is okay to remember that two things, in this case, that the vulnerable should be protected, and that no one should be profiting off of our fear…they can both be true at the same time.