In nod to governors, Trump walks back total authority claim

President Donald Trump said he's open to some states reopening before federal social distancing guidelines expire at the end of month, as he appeared to back off his claim of absolute authority to decide when the time was right to act.

Hours after suggesting that the bipartisan concerns of governors about his assertion of power would amount to an insurrection, Trump abruptly reversed course Tuesday, saying he would leave it to governors to determine when and how to revive activity in their states.

He said he likely would discuss his plans with governors on Thursday.

The governors are responsible," Trump said. They have to take charge.

Still, he insisted, The governors will be very, very respectful of the presidency."
Trump said the country would open up in beautiful little pieces, adding that some states with low rates of infection have fewer people and they have lots of room."