Watch CBS News

Trump says he's "very concerned" about conditions at migrant facilities

President Trump, after signing an executive order Tuesday to form a White House council to nix regulations that make housing more costly, said he's "very concerned" about the living conditions for migrants coming across the border. 

Mr. Trump claimed the conditions under former President Obama were worse. As CBS News has reported, many migrant children have been returned to a facility deemed "inhumane" in Texas. Mr. Trump also claimed he knows nothing about the seemingly sudden departure of Customs and Border Protection acting director John Sanders stepping down. Mr. Trump claims he doesn't know Sanders. 

It's not yet clear who will serve on the new working group, or what regulations they'll be considering. A senior administration official said they'll be looking at regulations within the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Department of Interior, Department of Agriculture, Department of Labor, Department of Transportation, Department of Energy, and the Environmental Protection Agency.

"The president has given us a mission to break down barriers and to clear the path for millions of Americans to pursue their American dream," Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson said in a phone call with reporters. "It's a mission we proudly and enthusiastically accept."

But that wasn't the news of the day when reporters began asking questions. 

Mr. Trump said the U.S. is ready for "whatever" Iran wants to do, amid escalating tensions between Tehran and Washington. Mr. Trump on Twitter Tuesday morning threatened "obliteration" in that country if Iran attacks anything American. 

The president also praised incoming White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham, who First Lady Melania Trump announced will become the president's top spokesperson. Grisham has been serving as Melania Trump's press secretary.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.