Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has called for a special legislative session starting on Monday to pass laws that support President Donald Trump’s tough stance on immigration. However, many top Republicans in Florida’s state legislature are pushing back, saying the session is unnecessary and too early.
DeSantis’ Immigration Crackdown
Governor DeSantis is working closely with President Trump’s administration to enforce stricter immigration policies in Florida. His proposal includes several new laws aimed at supporting Trump’s efforts to deport illegal immigrants and tighten immigration rules across the country.
One of the key proposals is to require Florida’s cities and counties to help with federal deportation programs. DeSantis also wants the power to remove officials who don’t follow these rules. Additionally, the governor is suggesting that entering the country illegally should be treated as a state crime, and he is proposing that people show their ID and immigration status before sending money abroad.
In his statements, DeSantis emphasized the need for Florida to work alongside the Trump administration to tackle immigration issues. “We’ve got to make sure that we are working hand-in-hand with the Trump administration,” he said. The governor believes this special session will help advance Trump’s border policies in Florida.
A Special Session in the Spotlight
Eleven bills related to immigration have already been filed ahead of the special session. Some of these bills propose creating a state immigration czar and allowing the governor to call in the National Guard for immigration enforcement.
Despite DeSantis’ strong push for these changes, many leading Republicans in the Florida legislature disagree. They argue that the special session is unnecessary, given that the regular legislative session will begin in March. Some believe there is no need to rush with immigration-related bills when they can be discussed later in the year.
DeSantis, however, disagrees. He argues that the state needs to act quickly, as Florida has waited too long to get support from Washington, D.C. on immigration issues. “We’ve been waiting four years to have a partner in Washington,” DeSantis said, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Trump’s Support and DeSantis’ Political Future
DeSantis has received praise from President Trump for his efforts to push stricter immigration policies. Trump has even shared on social media, thanking DeSantis and urging other governors to follow his example.
However, there are growing concerns about DeSantis’ influence in Florida. Before his failed presidential run in 2024, DeSantis had a strong relationship with the state’s lawmakers, especially after winning re-election by nearly 20 points in 2022. But now, some Republican lawmakers appear less eager to support him, even on issues like immigration.
DeSantis has warned lawmakers that if they do not support his special session, there could be political consequences for them in the future. His attempts to assert control over the state legislature are a sign of his determination to push through his agenda.
The Road Ahead
As the special legislative session begins, it remains to be seen whether DeSantis will be able to rally enough support from the state lawmakers to pass the proposed immigration laws. With the 2024 elections behind him, DeSantis faces a more challenging political landscape in Florida.
While DeSantis continues to advocate for a tougher immigration stance, his political future may depend on how well he can unite the state legislature behind his policies. For now, all eyes are on Tallahassee as the session unfolds.
(Source: foxnews.com)