As major cities across the nation continues to grapple with some fairly heavy decisions about their local economies, the Governor of Georgia is acting like a bit of a cowboy.
Brian Kemp, who is early in his first term as the Peach State’s top politician, has given the green light to several businesses to reopen in Georgia, starting as early as next week. His decision is highly controversial, however, as many of the businesses Kemp is hoping to have up and running aren’t the kind of establishments where social distancing is a natural occurrence.
President Trump on Wednesday said that the “totally disagreed” with Kemp’s call to have bowling alleys, tattoo parlors, and barbershops open their doors, but the Deep South leader just isn’t hearing it.
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp announced on Twitter Thursday that the state would be allowing certain businesses to reopen for limited operation, in light of encouraging data concerning the novel coronavirus.
Kemp, a Republican, made the announcement despite vocal opposition from President Trump, who said he disagreed with the decision but “at the same time he must do what he thinks is right.”
“For weeks now, my team has worked closely with the Trump Administration and our federal counterparts to mitigate the impact of #coronavirus in Georgia. Our decisions and direction are informed by data and public health recommendations,” he began.
“We remain focused on protecting the lives – and livelihoods – of all Georgians. To slow the spread of #COVID19 and prepare for hospital surge capacity, we asked Georgians to shelter in place and closed specific businesses throughout our state.”
In Atlanta, Georgia’s capital, several prominent restaurant groups have already stated that they will dismiss Kemp’s decision and instead wait for guidance from the federal government and CDC.
