Ron DeSantis, on ICE: Florida law is clear: local officials must cooperate

Ron DeSantis, governor of Florida, reiterated his stance on cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), stating, “The law of Florida is clear: local officials must cooperate.” This statement came amid heightened scrutiny over ICE operations, which have intensified under DeSantis’s leadership. The governor emphasized through social media that state law mandates collaboration between local authorities and federal agencies regarding undocumented immigration. Since President Donald Trump took office in January 2025, DeSantis has championed a policy of increased cooperation with ICE, leading to a notable rise in arrests of undocumented immigrants. According to a Bloomberg Opinion columnist, Mary Ellen Klas, the Miami-based ICE office recorded 41,000 detentions between January 2025 and March 2026—surpassing figures in other parts of the country. DeSantis has consistently maintained this position, reinforcing it in February by reaffirming the state's commitment to working with federal authorities. His message included a reference to Minnesota, a state known for its sanctuary policies that limit local cooperation with ICE. In contrast to states like Minnesota, Florida’s approach reflects a broader Republican strategy to expand the use of Section 287(g) agreements. These agreements allow local law enforcement to collaborate directly with ICE, enabling them to act as federal agents in certain circumstances. As a result, the process of deporting undocumented individuals has accelerated. DeSantis signed such an agreement in February 2025, requiring local police agencies to integrate into the program. Since then, immigrant communities have faced varied consequences, including greater fear and reduced trust in local institutions. Florida, particularly in the southern part of the state, hosts a large and diverse immigrant population, many of whom come from Cuba and other Latin American countries. While some residents hold legal status, others lack proper documentation. According to the Migration Policy Institute, approximately 356,000 undocumented individuals reside in areas such as Miami-Dade and Monroe counties alone. The state’s system allows minor infractions to lead to immigration proceedings, contributing to the growing impact of these policies. Local communities have reported significant changes since the implementation of these measures. Studies conducted by the University of South Florida indicate that individuals from different immigration statuses avoid accessing hospitals, schools, and religious institutions due to fears of being identified by authorities. Participants described increasing job instability, limited mobility, heightened anxiety about family separation, and declining confidence in law enforcement. The expansion of 287(g) agreements represents a key component of DeSantis’s broader immigration strategy. By aligning state resources with federal enforcement efforts, he aims to strengthen border security and reduce the number of undocumented individuals within the state. Critics argue that these policies create an environment of fear and deter essential services from being accessed by vulnerable populations. Nonetheless, DeSantis continues to defend the legality and necessity of these actions, framing them as a response to national immigration challenges. As the situation evolves, ongoing research and community feedback will likely shape future discussions around immigration policy in Florida. For now, the state remains a focal point in the national debate over immigration enforcement, with DeSantis’s administration continuing to push forward with its collaborative approach.