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Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Calls for Special Session on Immigration Reform

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has called for a special session to prepare for the incoming Trump administration’s immigration agenda. While some lawmakers support the initiative, others express hesitancy, highlighting uncertainties surrounding the proposed reforms.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (left) speaks alongside then-President Donald Trump during a roundtable discussion in Belleair, Florida, on July 31, 2020. | Patrick Semansky/AP

Trump Praises DeSantis for Special Session on Immigration

President-elect Donald Trump commended Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for initiating a special session to address immigration reforms. Trump encouraged other governors to adopt similar measures to align with his administration’s anticipated immigration crackdown.


DeSantis Pushes for Immigration Reforms in Florida

DeSantis has urged Florida lawmakers to take up measures aimed at supporting federal immigration enforcement under Trump’s leadership. The governor’s proposals include increasing law enforcement funding and repealing a law that grants in-state tuition rates to undocumented students, citing the need to eliminate “preferential” treatment.

“We have a responsibility to be in this fight,” DeSantis stated during a press conference.


Challenges Within Florida’s GOP Majority

Despite Florida’s Republican supermajority, DeSantis faces resistance from some legislative leaders who consider the special session premature. Critics, including state Sen. Don Gaetz, have called for more clarity on the governor’s legislative goals, warning against potential inefficiency or lack of progress during the session.


Support from Pro-Reform Lawmakers

Several lawmakers, such as state Sen. Blaise Ingoglia, have expressed enthusiasm for the session. Ingoglia emphasized the importance of tackling immigration issues promptly, noting Florida’s role as a leader in addressing illegal immigration concerns.


Blue States Vow Opposition to Trump’s Agenda

As Florida moves to align with Trump’s policies, states like California are mobilizing to resist. California Democrats have allocated $50 million to support immigrants through legal battles and protections against deportation and wage theft.


Looking Ahead: Florida’s Special Session and Federal Dynamics

The proposed session, scheduled for late January, will unfold just weeks before Florida’s regular legislative session begins. Meanwhile, Trump has promised significant deportation efforts after his inauguration on Jan. 20, setting the stage for clashes between Republican-led states and Democratic opposition.

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