Any rational discussion on what the right response should've been depends on the trustworthiness of the experts and leadership. Unfortunately, there has been so much bias and politicization from the media, government leaders, policy makers, and even doctors and scientists on both sides that most people are skeptical even if we are making sound decisions based on the stats. The question is - are the stats sound? I'm not convinced we'll ever know. In today's world, the loudest wins the narrative and is considered "right" by the masses.