Two New Jersey business owners are partnering with a candidate for the U.S. Senate to keep their gym open after public officials have threatened to close it for violating coronavirus orders.
Atilis Gym owners Ian Smith and Frank Trumbetti have teamed up with senate candidate Rik Mehta, a Republican who's running for the seat held by Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J.
"All members are invited to join us in exercising their rights by coming to the facility to volunteer their time, donate, and participate in activities," Smith and Trumbetti said.
The gym was fined close to $130,000 for repeatedly breaking an executive order. from Gov. Phil Murphy to remain closed to avoid spreading coronavirus.
"Any fines levied or attempt to barricade our doors would now be a political interference with an active Senate Campaign," Smith said in a statement. "Rik Mehta has been one of the only political figures in NJ to show his support for the rights of small businesses. Where others have 'spoken' support Rik has shown action."
Mehta, who works as a biotech entrepreneur, talked about the partnership and how it is helping his campaign.
"Our campaign will begin holding daily political rallies by those members who volunteer on our campaign at the Atilis Gym location in Bellmawr. My campaign is rooted in supporting the hardworking people of New Jersey and saving the small businesses that are the backbone of our economy both here in New Jersey and across our great country," Mehta said in a statement.
Atilis Gym first defied the state order by reopening in May, and the owners insist they have instituted social distancing practices to keep people safe.
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