WASHINGTON — President Trump announced on Twitter last night his intention to sign an executive order temporarily suspending immigration, citing coronavirus concerns.

The following is a statement from Andrea Flores, deputy policy director of the American Civil Liberties Union’s Equality Division:

“There are measured and productive approaches to curbing the spread of COVID-19, namely ensuring equal access to testing and treatment; releasing individuals from ICE and CBP detention; and suspending interior enforcement. Unfortunately, President Trump seems more interested in fanning anti-immigrant flames than in saving lives. We cannot allow President Trump to exploit this pandemic to advance his racism and xenophobia.”