“While my Department will not act to prevent you from touring Ford’s plant, I ask that while you are on tour you respect the great efforts of the men and women at Ford — and across this State — by wearing a facial covering. It is not just the policy of Ford, by virtue of the Governor’s Executive Orders. It is currently the law of this State.”

But Trump obviously didn’t take Nessel’s words seriously. He appeared on camera for a long period of time, during the visit, without a mask.

After learning Trump didn’t wear a mask Nessel said: “Trump refused to wear a face mask during his tour of the Ford plant in Ypsilanti today, despite numerous requests that he do so. Trump does not care about the safety of Michiganders.” She added, “this sends the worst possible message.”

Nessel, a Democrat, earlier said she expected Ford to enforce the policy or face legal consequences, “I think we’re going to take action against any company or any facility that allows him inside those facilities and puts our workers at risk. We simply can’t afford it here in our state.”

The Associated Press reported that “Ford said its policy requires everyone in factories to wear personal protective equipment, including masks, and that policy had been shared with the White House.” 

And Ford has a reason to play it safe. On Wednesday, Reuters noted:

Ford Motor Co on Wednesday closed two U.S. assembly plants as the coronavirus pandemic wreaked early havoc with the No. 2 U.S. automaker’s plan to restart North American production and begin making its most profitable vehicles again.

Ford closed its Dearborn, Michigan, plant due to a positive COVID-19 test by one worker, while its Chicago assembly plant was closed due to a parts shortage, Ford spokeswoman Kelli Felker said.