Philadelphia Mayor Caught Dining at Neighboring Restaurant After Closing Down Eateries

Caught Dining at Maryland Restaurant
"Understanding the Frustration in the Food Industry... Sorry"

[Image source=Philadelphia City official website]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] The mayor of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA, has come under fire after being caught dining at a restaurant in neighboring Maryland while restaurants in his own city remain closed. The mayor apologized, stating that he understands the hardships and frustrations of Philadelphia's restaurateurs.

According to CNN and other foreign media on the 1st (local time), Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney was recently photographed dining at a restaurant in Chesapeake Bay, Maryland. The photo spread online, sparking controversy. Philadelphia has banned indoor dining since March due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and many restaurateurs are reportedly considering closing their businesses.

A Philadelphia restaurant owner shared the photo on Instagram, saying, "It's nice to see you enjoying a meal without a mask at a Maryland restaurant while restaurants in Philadelphia are struggling to survive," adding, "Your statements that indoor dining is dangerous and all your previous press conference remarks apparently do not apply to you," and "Thank you for making this all clear," CNN reported.

Mayor Kenney admitted to visiting the restaurant on the 29th of last month and apologized. He explained on Twitter, "The county I visited has fewer than 800 COVID-19 cases, so I considered the risk low," adding, "Philadelphia has over 33,000 confirmed cases." He continued, "However, I understand people's dissatisfaction," and said, "I apologize if my decision hurt those trying to keep their businesses afloat during these difficult times."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.