What I have been unable to piece together in my mind is why? Either they are afraid of saying they made a mistake, they truly believe their methods work, or they have a grand scheme to grow government towards a socialist society. I never thought I would see a politician do so many unpopular things to his constituents and not worry about the consequences. Most politician worry about getting reelected. Democrats don’t seem to have that fear.
Politically they made a big deal to voter that the reason we are in this mess is because Trump failed to act. About 1/3 of voters believed them and was worked into a panic, and it just happens to (mostly) aligin with the Democratic base. The entire thing behind "masks" and "science" has almost become cultish. So, when they find the numbers are rising, they have to do "something" to keep that base satisfied, even if they themselves don't believe it (by all the Ds we've had that have broken their own rules) or they don't think it will work (e.g. LA County not having any basis to close outdoor dining or schools still being closed despite evidence schools are not major spreaders of the virus). My "inlaws" are like that....very proud and looking down their noses on people not following "the science". A portion of them are just fearful: I wrote that my son's friend from elementary school hasn't been allowed outside of the house/backyard since March...he hasn't seen anyone even for a distanced picnic and because his parents don't allow him a phone...the only time he gets with peers are through remote school or classes (like chess and Kumon).....their justification is the kid has a peanut allergy, but he's an introvert and my son guess he's probably happy being away from annoying classmates.
A comparison of cases per million between Florida (Disney World open) and California (Disneyland closed). California has now passed Florida's peak despite renewed lockdowns, travel bans, mask mandates, and curfews. Seasonality is a thing.