Richmond Leader

Another governor drew social media attention after being spotted maskless.

Gov. Ralph Northam (D), who has strongly recommended wearing face coverings, was seen at Virginia Beach without a mask.

He was photographed standing with a group of three people while they posed for a picture.

Northam, who is also a doctor, has been constantly encouraging Virginians to stay at least six feet apart when in public, which wasn’t demonstrated in the photos.   

The photos, which have been circulating on social media, did not go unnoticed. 

Virginia House Minority Leader Todd Gilbert (R-Shenandoah) shared a photo and tweeted “Physician, heal thyself.” 

The Governor’s Office initially said that Northam was outside and was not expecting to get close to anyone, but some people recognized him and requested to take pictures with him. 

Then, an updated statement was released, according to The Washington Post.

“The Governor has repeatedly encouraged wearing face coverings inside or when social distancing is impossible,” spokeswoman Alena Yarmosky said. “He was outside yesterday and not expecting to be within six feet of anyone. This is an important reminder to always have face coverings in case situations change — we are all learning how to operate in this new normal, and it’s important to be prepared.”