Gov. Tony Evers defended his phased plan to reopen the state from the coronavirus outbreak and said that it was based on guidelines issued by President Donald Trump's administration.

During a Tuesday interview with WTMJ-AM (620), Evers also pushed back at Republican legislators who have voiced strong opposition to his proposal.

"Here's the deal: I just accepted the biggest Republican of the country, his plan because it's a rational plan," Evers told Steve Scaffidi. "So if the state Republicans don't think Donald Trump's plan is appropriate, they can deal with Donald Trump, I guess."

Live Updates:The latest on coronavirus in Wisconsin

Daily Digest:What you need to know about coronavirus in Wisconsin

"It's logical," he said. "It's based on metrics. It's based on science. You know, Trump has surrounded himself with some pretty powerful scientists. I like them. I think they're doing a great job. I can't speak for the Republicans. Regardless of their concerns, we are moving forward. This is the best possible way for us to do this."

Under Evers' plan, daily life in Wisconsin would begin to resume only after cases of coronavirus and flu-like symptoms declined for two weeks straight.

Evers' plan requires restrictions to be lifted in three phases, testing to be available for everyone with symptoms, and leaves the decision to allow more interaction and business activity with state health officials.

Republicans in the legislature are asking for a specific timeline for reopening and GOP leaders said they won't back off plans to sue Evers over his decision to extend his order to stay at home until May 26.