'They're defeated. They feel it': Jen Psaki gives WH response to judge smacking down mask mandate on planes

Doug P. | 5:04 PM on April 18, 2022

Earlier today a federal judge in Florida ruled that the Biden administration’s public transportation mask mandate was unlawful.

Breaking News: A Florida judge struck down the federal transportation mask requirement on planes and public transport, ruling the CDC exceeded its authority. It was not immediately clear whether the Justice Department would appeal her order. https://t.co/XLWAuT123y

— The New York Times (@nytimes) April 18, 2022

At today’s presser, President Biden’s press secretary, who will soon be lying on MSNBC instead of in the White House briefing room, said the administration is disappointed in the ruling. From this video you might get the feeling that the White House senses its control slipping away:

PSAKI: Striking down Biden's travel mask mandate "is obviously a disappointing decision." pic.twitter.com/OLB29iNVpS

— Townhall.com (@townhallcom) April 18, 2022

Q. A federal judge in Florida said the CDC exceeded its authority with the mask mandate in airports. What’s the White House position?

Psaki: The CDC recommended continuing the order for additional time — two weeks — to be able to assess the latest science in keeping with its responsibility to protect the American people. So this is obviously a disappointing decision. The CDC continues to recommend wearing a mask on public transit. As you know this just came out this afternoon so right now the Department of Homeland Security, who would be implementing, and the CDC, are reviewing the decision and of course the Department of Justice would make any determinations about litigation.

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