President Donald Trump set off a media scramble with a tweet on Monday night that promised to suspend immigration to the United States to protect American workers during the coronavirus pandemic. By Tuesday evening, the plan had changed.
The executive branch has vast power to decide who’s allowed in the country.
Trump said during a press briefing Tuesday that a 60-day pause on issuing the immigration status just below citizenship is in the works.
“This order will only apply to individuals seeking a permanent residency. In other words, those receiving green cards,” he said.
The president was asked when he’ll sign the executive order.
“It’s being written now as we speak, probably tomorrow sometime,” he said.
Trump said the order will have exceptions, and it will not apply to guest farmworkers.
He may later decide to extend the pause beyond 60 days, but it will depend on the shape of the economy.