Thank you, Ringo, for writing back so fast.
My POI has written back also, saying that I would have gotten an offer but will most likely get declined now, given his situation. Reasons: (1) He is the only person who works clearly in my area. (2) Faculty members have to take out $5000 from their research funds for each of the four years for an international student like me. He says he was prepared to do that for me but doubts anyone else in the dept would, considering reason (1) and that they would rather spend the money on someone with a better fit.
I can only hope I get offered a place in my only other application. Good luck with the rest of you, nonetheless.