My view is that much of the news media and government wants to overreact. There is a false choice between doing nothing, which no one supports, or near martial law, as the only two options. Acting reasonably, with a lot of complaining, human nature being what it is, is getting forgotten by the news and politicians who want to "never let a crisis go to waste".
I suspect in this case, Trump feels as if he must act decisively. Anything will be used against him. and frankly allowing any weakness in response would give the DEMs ammunition to use against him. As harsh as some of the measures “may” end up being, having a senile addled brained Biden as President would be far disastrous long term. At this point, he can’t talk down the concern. That horse has left the barn. It’s there and he must respond no matter if there is media generated hype occurring. He has no choice now.