The White House is seen from the South Lawn in Washington October 17, 2008. REUTERS/Larry Downing

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The White House said on Thursday that an immigration deal to protect young immigrants from deportation had not been reached, contradicting the office of Republican Senator Jeff Flake, who said earlier on Thursday that an agreement had been secured.

“There has not been a deal reached yet. However, we still think we can get there and we’re very focused on trying to make sure that happens,” White House press secretary Sarah Sanders told reporters.