During a visit to a Macon hospital, Kemp said Georgia’s data “continue to look really good,” and he downplayed figures that show a recent rise in coronavirus cases. Asked whether he would lift more regulations, he said he was confident Georgians would “follow the guidance” and let him do so.

“It’s one reason I opened up the state when I did. I felt like our people had learned a lot. They get it. They know what they need to do,” he said. “We can’t keep fighting the virus from our living room.”

His remarks come as state figures show an increase in week-to-week cases of COVID-19 in Georgia, though it’s unclear whether it’s a statistical blip or it represents a marked change. Kemp cited some statistical models that show Georgia passed its peak of cases weeks ago.

The governor must soon decide whether to allow bars, nightclubs and live entertainment venues to reopen. He’s also likely to extend safety restrictions on businesses and restaurants that have resumed in-person dining.

AJC