Mountainside Fitness remains open even as Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey has issued an executive order for all gyms to close due to the surge in coronavirus cases in Arizona Thursday, July 2, 2020, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
OAN Newsroom
UPDATED 6:54 AM PT — Monday, July 6, 2020
The CEO of a popular Arizona fitness chain recently spoke out on Gov. Doug Ducey’s (R) order to close gyms in the state.
In an interview Sunday, Mountainside Fitness CEO Tom Hatten called the shutdown an “arbitrary” and “unconstitutional” decision. He sued the governor last week and refused to close his gym locations.
Hatten said the fitness centers were following protocol perfectly when Ducey gave his business only five-hours to close. He believes there is no proof that coronavirus cases can be traced back to gyms.
“And if that meant I’m gonna be fined or could end up in jail, there’s been plenty of great Americans who have been in this position before,” said the CEO. “I’m okay with that.”
Mountainside Fitness CEO Tom Hatten speaks to reporters at one of his health clubs in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Friday, July 3, 2020. Hatten said he would keep his facilities open despite a state order to shut down or face possible legal action. (AP Photo/Terry Tang)
Hatten is expected to have a court hearing Monday, where he will request an exemption.
I also thank everyone in our business community who’s being responsible in light of rising #COVID19 cases. I talked earlier this week abt patience & perseverance. I know this is a real sacrifice but it’s one that will make a real difference as we work to protect public health. 2/
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) July 3, 2020
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