Public responses to COVID-19 mask mandates: examining pro and anti-Mask anger in tweets before and after state-level mandates

Abstract

Governmental mandates requiring mask wearing in public spaces to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus have been controversial in the United States. We test theory related to anger and anger expression in the context of posts about masks appearing on Twitter during a 12-week period in which mask mandates were adopted in 18 states. The results were consistent with an appraisal of mandates as providing protection from harm. Pro-mask anger directed at others for not wearing masks increased following the imposition of mandates among tweets originating from states with a mandate. In states without a mandate, pro-mask anger similarly increased over time as additional state mandates were adopted across the country.