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Gov. Kemp Discusses Protests, COVID-19 Update

Curtis Compton/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP

Governor Brain Kemp delivering a COVID-19 update Tuesday afternoon. Before discussing the pandemic in Georgia, the governor discussed the protests taking place around the state.

“This is a deeply emotional time in Georgia and America, gripped by a global pandemic, COVID-19 has threatened the health and well-being of our families and communities” according to Kemp. “Here in Georgia, this healthcare crisis has created economic hardship. Unemployment numbers and uncertainty is sky high. And during this unprecedented moment, we have witnessed injustice with our own eyes.”

He specifically addressed the so-called ‘bad actors.’

“What started as a peaceful protest on Friday ended in violence and destruction. A powerful moment was ultimately corrupted by some with a different agenda. But to be clear, I am also outraged that these Georgians are now in harm’s way because some are using this moment to riot, loot, and compromise the safety of our citizenry. Violence and destruction is unacceptable. We will do what’s necessary to keep the peace.”

Kemp says he remains positive despite the issues.

“That being said, I still have hope that we can emerge from this stronger and more united. I believe that our best and brightest days are still to come.”

Both the governor and Dr. Kathleen Toomey, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Health, expressed concerns regarding the possibility of the crowds of protestors catching and spreading coronavirus.

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