"One of the worst aspects of America’s divided politics is the polarization of something as practical as a mask," Christie wrote. "It’s not a partisan or cultural symbol, not a sign of weakness or virtue. It’s simply a good method – not a perfect one, but a proven one – to contain a cough or prevent the virus from getting in your mouth or nose. Wear it or you may regret it – as I did."
Christie, who was hospitalized and spent seven days in intensive care after contracting coronavirus, admitted to letting his guard down and not wearing a mask to the Rose Garden event when President Trump announced Judge Amy Coney Barrett as his Supreme Court nominee, or during debate preparations with Trump.
"When Americans are given proper and consistent information, they will overwhelmingly make good health choices, including the wearing of masks. But that doesn’t work if partisan media and public officials send mixed messages," Christie wrote. "Those who deny the scientific realities of the pandemic undermine conditions that allow for rapid and complete reopening."
Christie said he hopes Americans learn from his experience, as it was a "serious failure" to not wear a mask.