Dennis Bonnen has choice words for UT spring breakers

Texas House Speaker Dennis Bonnen had a harsh message for the 44 University of Texas students who contracted the coronavirus after chartering a plane to Cabo San Lucas for spring break.

“Quit being an ass,” Bonnen, R-Lake Jackson, said in an interview with KXAN on Thursday. “Get over yourselves. Whether you think this is an issue or not, it is whether you think it could affect you or not, it does. The reality of it is, if I’m a college kid whose going to spring break in Mexico, you’re affecting a lot of people. Grow up.”

Austin Public Health officials confirmed Tuesday that a group of about 70 young people chartered a jet to Mexico in mid-March, with some travelers returning on commercial airlines. UT officials said it is believed most of the group were students, and as of Wednesday night, 44 had tested positive for COVID-19. Those who were infected are in quarantine and others on the trip are self-isolating and being monitored.

The students, who have not been named, have received widespread criticism online for disregarding the warnings of school, state and local officials. Some students, who opted not to go on the trip, say the travel agency JusCollege assured registrants Mexico was safe in the days leading up to departure, and did not offer refunds for the $2,000 trip packages.

In total, 59 UT students have tested positive for the virus, and public health officials are urging young people to social distance, even if they have no symptoms.

UT resumed online classes this week amid the pandemic, and has postponed commencement ceremonies for later this year. The school also announced this week it would offer all summer classes online only.