Trump sees compromise on extending DACA; ‘the wall will come later’
Following a dinner meeting at the White House Wednesday, President Trump and Democratic leaders seemed close to a compromise on extending the Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program in exchange for increased border security. The two sides later exchanged statements politely disagreeing on whether a “deal” or “agreement” or “plan” had been arrived at, but it seemed clear that progress had been made on the substantive issues.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., said Wednesday in a joint statement that they had a “very productive” meeting with the president.
“We agreed to enshrine the protections of DACA into law quickly, and to work out a package of border security, excluding the wall, that’s acceptable to both sides,” they said.
A White House statement, however, downplayed DACA, saying it was one of a number of topics discussed, along with tax reform, border security, infrastructure and trade. There was no mention of a deal.
President Trump said Thursday morning that “no deal” has been made on DACA. But Trump also questioned whether “anybody” supported the deportation of “good, educated and accomplished” undocumented immigrants protected by DACA.
Doing just that, on “day one,” had been a key promise of his campaign, along with securing the border with an actual physical wall, not just enhanced security measures.
No deal was made last night on DACA. Massive border security would have to be agreed to in exchange for consent. Would be subject to vote.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 14, 2017
The WALL, which is already under construction in the form of new renovation of old and existing fences and walls, will continue to be built.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 14, 2017
Does anybody really want to throw out good, educated and accomplished young people who have jobs, some serving in the military? Really!…..
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 14, 2017
…They have been in our country for many years through no fault of their own – brought in by parents at young age. Plus BIG border security
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 14, 2017