In Florida, a statewide remain-at-home order went into effect early Friday, after Republican Governor Ron DeSantis ended his weeks-long opposition to strict social distancing measures. Houses of worship are exempted under the order as “essential businesses” — raising fears of community spread at churches, mosques and synagogues. At least 144 people have died of COVID-19 in Florida, which has one of the nation’s largest populations of residents 65 and older.
