US: Wisconsin governor says COVID-19 numbers are alarming

The number of positive cases and deaths caused by COVID-19 continues to climb in Wisconsin Friday, with the governor and other state officials imploring residents to wear a mask and do what it takes to stop the spread.

State health officials said 24 more people have died from coronavirus complications since Thursday, bringing the death toll in Wisconsin to 1,972. Another 5,096 people have tested positive in the last day, bringing the state's total cases to 22,092.

Currently 1,400 people are hospitalized with the virus.

Despite the climbing numbers, Gov. Tony Evers said local clerks and poll workers are prepared to handle voters on Tuesday.

"For those who are voting in person now, I believe it's safe," Evers said a virtual briefing Friday, adding that polling places have adequate supplies to protect voters.

Evers said when political leaders don't wear a mask, it sends a message that it's not important, referencing campaign rallies by President Donald Trump, who along with his rival, Joe Biden, was stopping in Wisconsin Friday.

He said the Biden campaign has dealt with the coronavirus in more proactive ways.

"One campaign is sure the hell safer than the other," Evers said.

Biden was to campaign in Milwaukee Friday evening.