DeSantis Calls To Enact Trump Agenda Immediately In Florida

On Monday, Florida's Republican Governor Ron DeSantis declared his intention to convene a special session of the state legislature the week of January 27. He aims to support the Trump administration's immigration enforcement by passing new laws that would define additional responsibilities for local officials, penalize those who flout Florida's anti-sanctuary policies, and remove any attractions that might draw undocumented immigrants to Florida.

DeSantis reflected on the past four years: "We've overcome numerous federal hurdles in various areas where they've borrowed, spent, and increased costs. We've eased the load on Floridians through tax and toll relief measures. We've managed to push through despite attempts to block educational freedoms."

He then focused on immigration, stating, "The issue of illegal immigration has been perhaps the most pressing over the last four years."

Anticipating a shift with Trump's re-inauguration on January 20, DeSantis noted, "We're looking at a significant policy overhaul, especially concerning border control and illegal immigration. Decades of this issue have persisted, but the first Trump term was notably more effective. Now is the critical time to address it once and for all. We've been coordinating with the transition team, and I've had discussions with the President. The governors' meeting at Mar-a-Lago highlighted the forthcoming ambitious policy shifts, including substantial executive actions to reverse Biden's policies."

"Florida isn't a sanctuary state; we outlawed sanctuary cities in my first year as governor," DeSantis added, emphasizing the state's role in national immigration enforcement. "We must ensure state and local officials assist in these efforts, requiring new legislation to clarify duties and allocate resources. We also need to enforce accountability for those not adhering to our anti-sanctuary policies and eliminate any incentives for illegal immigration into Florida."

Announcing the special session, he said, "With the new presidency starting on January 20, we expect immediate executive orders. We need to act swiftly without delay."

He detailed the legislative needs, "New laws must clearly define the roles of state and local officials in aiding federal immigration enforcement. There might be differing views locally, but we must ensure compliance. Many sheriffs are eager to assist, just needing the right support."

DeSantis recounted a situation during recent hurricanes, "In Pinellas County, out of 45 arrested for looting, 40 were here illegally. How does this happen during a disaster? Such individuals should be promptly deported."

He also addressed a specific policy issue, "Back in 2014, a law was passed granting in-state tuition to undocumented immigrants. This rewards illegal presence and needs to be repealed. Despite past efforts, this has remained on the books. It's time to end this incentive for illegal immigration to Florida."

Concluding, DeSantis stressed, "We must eliminate all incentives for illegal entry into Florida."