Part of the problem is that the pledge to “follow the science” seems to be optional. The public backup for the new mask guidance comes from an informational presentation to Centers for Disease Control officials initially leaked to The Washington Post. It cited rising infections on Cape Cod and elsewhere among the vaccinated, but the paper said the presentation cautioned that the data was preliminary and subject to change.

The confluence of policy failures, repeated miscommunications and the spread of the stubborn virus is presenting Biden with his first real crisis as president. His personal approval rating is down to 50 percent and the growing grumbles from all quarters is creating a hinge point for his presidency.

If he can right the ship, the grumbling will be forgotten. But if he can’t, the fears among some Dems about next year’s midterms will be prophetic.