Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson Says His No Stay-At-Home Order Is ‘Successful’

Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson (R) defended not having a statewide stay-at-home order, adding that his  “targeted approach” has been effective. 

“If we need to do more, we will do more,” the Republican governor told CNN. “So that’s always an option on the table if we have to shelter in place. But right now, what we’re doing proves to be successful, this targeted approach.”

Hutchinson said he didn’t believe Arkansas needed a stay-at-home order because of its low population density. Huchinson did, however, declare a public emergency when the first case of the coronavirus appeared in the state and closed the state’s schools. 

“We have masks and social distancing and the people of Arkansas have embraced that. That gives you success,” Hutchinson said, adding that he believes the state’s “tough time is behind and we’re going to be getting better.”

As of Sunday, Arkansas has more than 1,200 confirmed cases and about 25 deaths.