DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) – Gov. Terry Branstad says he does not want Iowa to host any Central American children who have crossed the Mexican border on their own since Oct. 1. During a news conference Monday, Branstad said he was not aware of any immigrant children currently in Iowa. He said the federal government should focus on securing the borders.  Branstad and other governors met with federal officials Sunday on the issue.

Under current law, immigrant children from countries that do not border the United States and who cross into this country by themselves are turned over to federal authorities. They are then sent to live with relatives in the country while awaiting a ruling from immigration court.

Since Oct. 1, more than 57,000 children have crossed the border alone.