We asked Chicagoans what they thought of the prospect of tightened restrictions being imposed once more because of the surge in coronavirus cases. Then, Mayor Lori Lightfoot did just that, announcing a new clampdown in place on bars and restaurants. Some answers have been condensed and lightly edited for clarity.
“I think that maybe the city shouldn’t have loosened restrictions on bars and restaurants. It sends the wrong message as well as being an avenue for the virus to spread.” — Mark Simons
“I’m extremely concerned that CPS wants to bring children and staff back when we’re in a second surge.” — Dana Marie Miroballi
“If it needs to be done, we do it. Money is never more important than human lives.” — Michelle Hrad
“This second surge was probably fostered by the occasional ‘Oh, a little get-together won’t hurt,’ or ‘Oops, forgot my mask, whatever’ or ‘you don’t seriously believe this coronavirus business is real?’ Or my favorite: ‘Cain’t nobody tell me what I can or cain’t do!’ Obviously, they all add up. The result is a second wave.” — Debrah Ross
“If that’s what it takes to get rid of this virus, so be it. People won’t abide by the rules of social distancing and wearing a mask to combat this horrible disease. Kids do better wearing the mask than adults!” — Von Davis
“As it should be. We are failing as a country to protect our most vulnerable citizens. What exactly does that say about us as a people?” — Amy Michelle
“Give us another stimulus, add that $600 back to unemployment, and I’m fine with it.” — Jessica Muniz
“Wearing a mask, social distancing and washing one’s hands.. If EVERYONE did this, we couldn’t be having this conversation. However, it is never too late to start. I say we all do that now and not a second later.” — Rosina Mostardini
“I manage a gym in the Loop. We follow all of the guidelines and enforce all of the rules. We are limping but still standing. Another shutdown? Wear your masks (correctly!), wash your hands, and stay apart! Why is this so difficult?” — Dennis Mac
“For those of us on the frontlines, it’s all just one giant surge with no end in sight.” — Monica Maalouf
“Most businesses can’t handle another shutdown. The average family can’t handle another shutdown mentally or financially. Our government can’t handle another shutdown. Is the government going to support everyone whose jobs are eliminated? Who is going to put food on our tables and pay our mortgages and other bills?” — Jennifer Schichner
“Last time I checked, we are all grown adults who can make our own decisions. Afraid? Don’t go out.” — Melanie Ruhe
“People refuse to follow the guidelines, and now we go backwards. This will never be over because people will not do something so simple as wear a mask.” — Mary Gabel Beasley
“I’m tired of COVID, too. And if everyone did what they were suppose to do, maybe this would be behind us.” — Nancy Marszewski
