Hatch wants ‘detailed explanation’ on Trump’s ‘s—hole’ comments 

Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) said Thursday night that he wanted a “detailed explanation” from the White House about President Trump’s reported comments about accepting immigrants from “shithole countries.”

“I look forward to getting a more detailed explanation regarding the President’s comments. Part of what makes America so special is that we welcome the best and brightest in the world, regardless of their country of origin,” Hatch said in a tweet from his office.

HATCH: “I look forward to getting a more detailed explanation regarding the President’s comments. Part of what makes America so special is that we welcome the best and brightest in the world, regardless of their country of origin.” #utpol

— Senator Hatch Office (@senorrinhatch) January 11, 2018

Hatch is the senior most Republican to call on Trump to explain his comments from an Oval Office meeting Thursday with lawmakers discussing protections for immigrants from several countries, which were first reported by The Washington Post and confirmed by multiple other outlets.

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Trump reportedly referred to immigrants from Haiti, El Salvador and African countries as coming from “shithole countries,” suggesting the U.S. should bring in more immigrants from countries such as Norway.

Trump met with Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg on Wednesday.

In a series of tweets, Rep. Carlos Curbelo (R-Fla.) also called for the White House to clarify Trump’s comments, writing that “under no circumstances is it acceptable to degrade, denigrate, or dehumanize” those given Temporary Protected Status.

The men and women who have status under the TPS program are among the most humble and hard working in our country. They improve quality of life in our communities and many Americans depend on them to support family life.

— Rep. Carlos Curbelo (@RepCurbelo) January 11, 2018

Moreover delivering a permanent solution for #TPS beneficiaries should be a major component of any #immigration deal.

— Rep. Carlos Curbelo (@RepCurbelo) January 11, 2018