Florida Legislature Strips DeSantis of Immigration Oversight Powers

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Key Takeaways

The Florida Legislature passed the TRUMP Act, limiting Governor DeSantis’ immigration powers and aligning policies with Trump’s priorities.
Immigration enforcement shifted to Agriculture Commissioner Simpson, signaling diminished power for DeSantis within his Republican-majority state government.
Stricter immigration policies, including repealed tuition benefits, sparked controversy, affecting undocumented students, businesses, and Florida’s political dynamics.

The Florida Legislature has made a bold decision to strip Governor Ron DeSantis of his immigration oversight powers, reshaping the power structure within the state. This surprising development unfolded as lawmakers convened their own legislative session, rejecting DeSantis’ request for a special session. Instead, they aligned themselves closely with former President Donald Trump’s immigration policies, signaling shifting priorities in the state government.

The Republican-led Legislature supported the TRUMP Act, a comprehensive immigration bill DeSantis had labeled as “weak, weak, weak.” Despite his dismissal, the legislation passed with significant majorities—21-16 in the Senate and 82-30 in the House. These votes represent a direct challenge to DeSantis’ authority and an unusual political shift, even among members of the same party.

Florida Legislature Strips DeSantis of Immigration Oversight Powers

One of the standout changes in the bill is the decision to move immigration enforcement authority from Governor DeSantis to Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson. Simpson, who does not have a strong relationship with DeSantis, would become Florida’s top immigration official, overseeing how local and state law enforcement carries out immigration duties. This move injects additional drama into Florida’s political scene as it not only limits DeSantis’ power but leaves it in the hands of someone who is not closely aligned with him.

As Senate President Ben Albritton, a Republican from Wauchula, stated, “I trust President Trump.” His comment underscores the Legislature’s alignment with Trump’s priorities, rather than those of their governor. Albritton and others emphasized that their decision reflects trust in Trump’s immigration leadership, further isolating DeSantis within his own Republican base.

DeSantis had recently called for a special legislative session to address various state issues, such as hurricane relief, condominium reforms, and changes to laws on citizen-led initiatives. Yet, legislative leaders Ben Albritton and House Speaker Daniel Perez rejected the governor’s proposal, calling it “premature” and lacking in substance. They noted DeSantis’ failure to provide detailed legislative plans or clear outlines, further weakening his position.

In response, DeSantis turned to social media and television, attempting to pressure lawmakers into compliance. Instead of supporting him, some legislators mocked his campaign. Republican Senator Randy Fine openly referred to the governor’s actions as those of a “flailing guy losing relevance.” This reaction hints at growing frustration within DeSantis’ party over his leadership style and tactics.

The TRUMP Act, now one of Florida’s most debated pieces of legislation, includes provisions to repeal tuition breaks for undocumented students. This particular component has sparked significant controversy. Many argue that eliminating these discounts will harm students already midway through their college degrees. Senator Fine, who filed the bill, defended the move, stating, “I’m not interested in giving illegal immigrants a discount on our colleges and universities.”

This policy marks a stark departure from the tuition benefits offered during Governor Rick Scott’s tenure in 2014. Back then, Florida lawmakers had passed legislation making college more affordable for undocumented students, earning bipartisan praise. The repeal now showcases a larger shift in Florida’s political climate, mirroring heightened national debates on immigration.

The legislation also received strong support from the Florida Sheriffs Association. They praised lawmakers for ensuring local law enforcement has the tools to uphold immigration laws, focusing on removing what the association terms “criminal aliens” from Florida’s communities. While proponents argue this reinforces public safety, critics highlight the potential for the law to disproportionately affect immigrant families who may have non-violent or low-level infractions.

This shift has left DeSantis in a precarious position. Should he veto the bill, it is unlikely he would gain enough Senate support to avoid an override. At the same time, allowing it to pass without opposition would further diminish his authority. DeSantis is caught in a dilemma that could signal a broader weakening of his political influence.

DeSantis’ potential options to counter this setback are limited but consequential. His first move could involve calling another special legislative session, attempting to refocus state lawmakers on his priorities. Alternatively, he could use Florida’s budget planning process to challenge his opponents, possibly withholding funding for projects close to legislators’ interests. However, these actions may escalate tensions with state lawmakers and complicate future collaborations.

The Legislature, too, has several strategies available. Lawmakers might hold oversight hearings to scrutinize areas of DeSantis’ leadership, such as his handling of state funds or policies like vaccine rollouts. They could also revisit past budget vetoes in an effort to reclaim control over specific state programs. Representative Juan Carlos Porras, a Republican from Miami, indicated some lawmakers might support aggressive action, suggesting an “appetite” exists for pushing back against the governor.

The fallout from this legislative conflict also carries deeper implications for Florida’s immigration landscape. DeSantis, who sharply criticized Democratic immigration policies during his participation in the 2024 presidential primaries, now faces obstacles even from within his Republican majority. His broader national image as a Trump-aligned leader is being challenged by a GOP Legislature intent on implementing Trump’s policies without his involvement.

This delicate balance creates uncertainty not only for DeSantis but also for Florida’s immigrant communities, employers, and education system. Undocumented students might struggle to complete degrees following the end of tuition benefits, while businesses could face greater scrutiny in hiring practices due to shifting enforcement priorities.

Additionally, President Trump’s continuing involvement looms heavily over Florida politics. Both DeSantis and state legislators have emphasized their efforts to align policy decisions with Trump’s guidance. Even without federal office, Trump wields significant influence in shaping immigration policies at the state level. His ability to direct Florida lawmakers raises questions about how immigration enforcement may evolve beyond DeSantis’ governorship.

As events continue to evolve, both sides are expected to intensify their efforts. The Legislature’s move to shift power away from DeSantis sends a clear message: state lawmakers intend to control Florida’s immigration policies, echoing the Trump administration rather than relying on their governor’s aggressive agenda. It is a statement about trust, political priorities, and changing allegiances within Florida’s Republican Party.

DeSantis, meanwhile, must decide how to respond without further damaging his standing among the lawmakers who will help shape the remainder of his term. Whether by contesting the Legislature’s actions through procedural roadblocks or reshaping his communication strategies, his next steps will determine the trajectory of his influence in Florida.

Florida’s immigrant communities and education sector are not the only ones affected. The tension between DeSantis and state lawmakers might signal broader shifts in the Republican Party’s internal politics. The emphasis on Trump’s governance style above DeSantis’ leadership suggests changing dynamics that could play out in other states with similar political compositions.

For those impacted by Florida’s immigration policies, recent legislative changes leave open questions. Will removing tuition breaks harm not just undocumented students but the state’s overall workforce development? How will law enforcement adapt to new expectations under Commissioner Simpson? And what new policies might emerge as lawmakers and DeSantis try to outmaneuver each other?

For now, the balance of power clearly leans away from DeSantis—and toward the state Legislature, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, and President Trump’s enduring influence. As the TRUMP Act enforces stricter immigration policies and challenges existing norms, its impact will ripple through communities, schools, workplaces, and even Florida’s upcoming elections.

The page is far from fully turned on this political battle. Florida’s lawmakers have thrown the gauntlet, altering the rules of engagement in the state’s political sphere. The days ahead will show whether DeSantis can adapt or whether this move will cement a long-term shift in how Florida handles immigration governance. As reported by VisaVerge.com, this power struggle promises to reshape immigration discussions in Florida and could influence broader immigration debates across the U.S.

For official details on Florida’s immigration laws and enforcement policies, you can visit Florida’s official government website. This resource provides up-to-date information on policy updates and state-level enforcement strategies.

Florida Legislature strips DeSantis’ immigration oversight powers

Florida lawmakers passed the TRUMP Act, removing Governor Ron DeSantis’ control over immigration enforcement and giving the authority to Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson. The Republican-led Legislature defied DeSantis’ agenda while aligning more closely with former President Trump.

Why it matters: This marks a major shift in Florida’s political landscape, underscoring tensions between DeSantis and the Legislature while reshaping the state’s approach to immigration policy just as DeSantis’ presidential ambitions are in question.

The big picture:

The TRUMP Act repeals a tuition break for undocumented students and gives Simpson oversight of local and state enforcement of immigration policies.
The bill counters DeSantis’ call for aggressive measures and instead embraces Trump’s immigration agenda.

What they’re saying:
– Senate President Ben Albritton (R-Wauchula): “I trust President Trump.”
– Senator Randy Fine (R-Melbourne Beach), on DeSantis’ special session idea: “A flailing guy losing relevance.”

Between the lines:

Lawmakers’ defiance hints at waning DeSantis influence. While previously aligned, they’re now scrutinizing his leadership amid concerns he’s prioritizing personal goals over state needs.

By the numbers:

The TRUMP Act cleared the state Senate 21-16 and the House 82-30—strong, bipartisan support compared to previous immigration proposals.
Tuition breaks for undocumented students, implemented in 2014, affected thousands who may now face higher education costs.

State of play:

DeSantis faces a tough choice: veto the bill—risking a legislative override—or approve it, appearing politically weakened.
Retaliation options include pushing more special sessions or targeting lawmakers’ budget priorities, moves that could backfire.

Yes, but:

The Legislature isn’t powerless—lawmakers are signaling readiness for further actions, including oversight hearings or overrides of DeSantis’ past budget decisions.

The bottom line: With immigration oversight potentially shifting to a political rival and legislative allies aligning with Trump, DeSantis’ grip on Florida politics is weakening. This battle could reshape the state’s immigration policies and DeSantis’ political trajectory.

Learn Today

TRUMP Act: A comprehensive immigration bill in Florida designed to align state policies with priorities from former President Donald Trump.
Tuition Breaks: Discounts or reduced educational fees offered to specific groups, such as undocumented students, to make college more affordable.
Immigration Oversight Powers: Authority to manage and regulate immigration-related enforcement and policies within a specific jurisdiction, like a state government.
Undocumented Students: Individuals attending educational institutions without official immigration status or authorization within the country where they study.
Legislative Session: A formal gathering of lawmakers to discuss, debate, and make decisions on proposed laws and state policies.

This Article in a Nutshell

Florida’s Legislature has sidelined Governor Ron DeSantis, stripping his immigration oversight powers in favor of Trump-aligned policies. The bold move shifts authority to Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, reshaping Florida’s political landscape. DeSantis faces growing resistance within his party, signaling changing GOP dynamics and uncertainty for immigrants, students, and the state’s leadership trajectory.
— By VisaVerge.com