"The governors are responsible. They have to take charge. They have to do a great job," President Trump said.
The day after President Donald Trump said he had "total" authority to determine how to reopen the U.S. economy, he appeared to walk back the controversial claim, saying governors will decide when to lift their states' coronavirus restrictions.
On Tuesday, President Trump told reporters he will QUOTE "authorize" each governor to come up with a plan to reopen schools and businesses — though governors don't need the president's permission to do so.
Still, he added the governors will QUOTE "be very, very respectful of the presidency."
President Trump's remarks are a stark departure from the stance he took during Monday's coronavirus task force briefing.
"The president of the United States has the authority to do what the president has the authority to do, which is very powerful. The president of the United States calls the shots," President Trump said.
President Trump says he will meet with all 50 governors soon to talk about their reopening plans.
