President Donald Trump on Tuesday publicly rebuked the Governor of Georgia over his plans to lift restrictions on certain businesses in coming days, saying he had told Gov. Brian Kemp (R) that he was moving too quickly to allow businesses like beauty parlors, barber shops, and tattoo parlors to be opened.
"It's just too soon, I think it's too soon," President Trump said at a Tuesday evening White House briefing.
"At the same time, he must do what he thinks is right," the President added, making it clear that Governors have the final say on how states lift Coronavirus limits.
"But I disagree with him on what he's doing," Mr. Trump said.
President Trump: "I told the Governor of Georgia, Brian Kemp, that I disagree strongly with his decision to open certain facilities which are in violation of the Phase I guidelines...It's just too soon."
— CSPAN (@cspan) April 22, 2020
Full video here: https://t.co/EEGeKYqaYQ pic.twitter.com/rx1yAFCyo4
The President said while he 'loved' the people who use tattoo parlors, beauty salons and barber shops, now was not the time for them to open.
“They can wait a little bit longer, just a little bit not much - because safety has to predominate. We have to have that,” Mr. Trump said to reporters in the White House Briefing Room.
In a series of tweets after the President's Coronavirus news conference, the Governor said he was ready to work with the White House and follow the new guidelines for re-opening businesses.
Earlier today, I discussed Georgia's plan to reopen shuttered businesses for limited operations with @POTUS. I appreciate his bold leadership and insight during these difficult times and the framework provided by the White House to safely move states forward. (1/3) #gapol
— Governor Brian P. Kemp (@GovKemp) April 22, 2020
Our next measured step is driven by data and guided by state public health officials. We will continue with this approach to protect the lives - and livelihoods - of all Georgians. (2/3) #gapol
— Governor Brian P. Kemp (@GovKemp) April 22, 2020
Just like the thousands of businesses currently operating throughout Georgia, I am confident that business owners who decide to reopen will adhere to Minimum Basic Operations, which prioritize the health and well-being of employees and customers. (3/3) #gapol
— Governor Brian P. Kemp (@GovKemp) April 22, 2020