According to "The New York Times", Abbott's response to the coronavirus pandemic has been contradictory, as he has said that Texans should stay at home while also saying that Texas is open for business. He also said that Texans should wear face masks, but refused to issue a statewide mandate. Abbott's response to the coronavirus pandemic has received bipartisan criticism. In July 2020, Abbott directed counties with more than 20 coronavirus cases to wear masks in public places; he had previously prohibited local governments from implementing required face masks.