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DeSantis Threatens Veto on Immigration Bill Amid GOP Tensions
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis indicated on Wednesday that he might veto a Republican-backed immigration bill, claiming its provisions would compromise efforts to enforce immigration laws effectively.
This potential veto aligns with a broader conflict between DeSantis and state Republican lawmakers, as he expressed dissatisfaction over what he described as a diluted immigration proposal that recently passed through the state legislature.
“We must have the strongest law in the nation on immigration enforcement. We cannot be weak,” DeSantis stated on the social media platform X. “The bill that narrowly passed the Florida legislature last night fails to honor our promises to voters, fails to meet the moment, and would actually weaken state immigration enforcement.”
Trump’s Support for DeSantis
DeSantis’s stance on immigration has even earned praise from former President Donald Trump, who publicly supported the governor’s efforts in Florida.
This week, the Republican-majority Florida legislature concluded a special session that was originally called by DeSantis to discuss a variety of measures aimed at bolstering Trump’s immigration policies. However, during this session, lawmakers opted to pass their own immigration bills and even overturned a budget veto from the governor, marking a significant shift in legislative dynamics, as it was the first time in 15 years that a Florida governor’s veto has been reversed.
Response to the TRUMP Act
Following the passage of the Tackling and Reforming Unlawful Migration Policy Act (commonly referred to as the TRUMP Act), DeSantis wasted no time in expressing his displeasure. He mentioned, “The veto pen is ready,” signaling his intention to reject the legislation if it does not align with his restrictive immigration goals.
The governor criticized the bill, arguing that it represents an inadequate approach to addressing the issues of arresting and deporting undocumented immigrants, particularly those with criminal backgrounds. His comments come as U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reported a significant operation over the weekend resulting in nearly 1,000 arrests.
Calling for Stronger Measures
DeSantis articulated his vision for immigration enforcement, asserting that any effective policy must include robust legislative support for state and local deportation initiatives, the termination of catch and release practices, and measures that reduce factors attracting undocumented immigrants, such as remittances. He emphasized the necessity of these policies to protect Floridians from the ongoing challenges posed by illegal immigration.
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