On Thursday, President Barack Obama unveiled his executive action on immigration reform in a move that is unpopular with those in the Republican Party.
Good Morning America reported that the president announced temporary relief for the threat of deportation for nearly 5 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S., which has set up a showdown with Republicans.
NBC News noted that in his televised speech, Obama said that parents of U.S. citizens would be granted relief and the separation of families is "not who we are as Americans."
"If you've been in America for more than five years; if you have children who are American citizens or legal residents; if you register, pass a criminal background check, and you're willing to pay your fair share of taxes — you'll be able to apply to stay in this country temporarily, without fear of deportation," he said.
He pointed out that the executive action would not grant citizenship or allow undocumented immigrants permanent residency in the country, adding that he will work with both parties for a solution.
Republicans, however, have slammed the immigration plan and have vowed to fight it.
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