Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp defended his controversial plan to open some nonessential businesses on Friday, despite criticism from Trump.
Kemp said he’s followed federal safety guidelines and that now is the time to start reopening the state’s economy.
“Now, with favorable data and approval from state health officials, we are taking another measured step forward by opening shuttered businesses for limited operations,” Kemp tweeted Thursday night. “I know these hardworking Georgians will prioritize the safety of their employees and customers. Together, we will weather this storm and emerge stronger than ever.”
Trump said Kemp went too far in opening some of the state’s businesses.
“I want him to do what he thinks is right,” Trump said during a press briefing Wednesday. “But … I think (opening) spas and beauty salons and tattoo parlors and barbershops in Phase One … it’s just too soon.”
In addition, Kemp released new requirements through executive order, detailing how various businesses can begin reopening again starting on Friday and Monday. Some requirements include that restaurants must post signs saying no one with symptoms of COVID-19 can enter.
Georgia has at least 21,883 diagnosed cases of COVID-19, with at least 881 deaths.
