President Trump Says He ‘Disagrees Strongly’ With Gov. Kemp’s Decision To Start Reopening Georgia

In addition to our normal news coverage, What Now Atlanta is tracking ways Atlanta’s businesses are adapting to the novel coronavirus and the challenges it brings to brick-and-mortars.

President Donald J. Trump on Wednesday during the White House’s daily Coronavirus Task Force briefing said he told Governor Brian Kemp that he “disagrees strongly with [Kemp’s] decision to open certain facilities to which are in violation of the Phase One guidelines…”

The federal government’s Phase One guidelines for businesses reopening only specifically mention large venues (e.g., sit-down dining, movie theaters, sporting venues, places of worship) and gyms.

“[Georgians] have been strong, resolute, but at the same time, [Kemp] must do what he thinks is right,” Trump said.

“I want him to do what he thinks is right.”

Gov. Kemp on Monday announced plans to allow certain Georgia businesses including salons and barbershops to reopen as of Friday, April 24.

“It’s just too soon, I think its too soon,” Trump said.

“They can wait a little bit longer because safety has to predominate, we have to have that.”

Several Atlanta-area businesses have already made plans to reopen Friday including Bad Axe Throwing.

Others, like upscale bowling alley The Painted Pin, are going to wait.

[Editor’s note: The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is rapidly evolving as is its effect on Atlanta, and the City’s businesses and its residents. Click here for What Now Atlanta’s ongoing coverage of the crisis. For guidance and updates on the pandemic, please visit the C.D.C. website.]