How a functioning democracy would be managing this at a federal level

https://covid19.govt.nz/latest-updates/prime-minister-to-make-a-statement-to-the-nation-at-12-pm-today/

The Prime Minister of New Zealand just introduced a national alert system with four levels so that local authorities have clear direction on which activities need to be stopped at different times. Different cities and states can be at different levels depending on whether there is community transmission or not but everyone is speaking the same language and there are clear guidelines on how to implement the strategy at each level.

She addressed the nation and her key message was "We know how to rally. We know how to look after one another. Be strong, be kind, and unite against Covid-19."

I can't imagine trying to go through this with Donald Trump or Boris Johnson at the helm. This is toddler-level stuff that even GWB managed.