Staff Reports
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is pushing the envelope by calling a special legislative session aimed squarely at addressing President-elect Donald Trump’s ambitious immigration initiatives. This move is not without its challenges, as certain Republican lawmakers in the state, seemingly caught in a bureaucratic limbo, are dragging their feet, calling the timing “premature” and “irresponsible.” It’s a curious stance for a party that claims to champion a strict adherence to law and order—especially regarding the ever-pressing issue of immigration.
With over 100 executive orders ready to roll from Trump’s administration on Day One, Floridians may find themselves in the midst of a red wave on policies including border security and deportation. While Trump’s team is committed to mass deportations, practical questions linger—like how exactly to ease 11 million illegal immigrants out of the country. It’s not rocket science, but for some, it might as well be. Despite these setbacks, DeSantis is not shy about aligning with Trump’s commitment to tackle immigration head-on.
#BREAKING: Gov. Ron DeSantis officially orders a special session of the legislature, says Trump was "elected with a mandate to stop illegal immigration and deport illegal aliens already in our country"
"I am calling on the legislature to appropriate funding for detention,… pic.twitter.com/paROTIGDRd
— Florida’s Voice (@FLVoiceNews) January 13, 2025
The special session, set for the week after Trump’s inauguration, aims to ensure Florida lawmakers are poised to assist in implementing the incoming president’s policy agenda. DeSantis insists that state officials must act swiftly and decisively to uphold federal immigration laws, suggesting that local officials may face consequences if they neglect their responsibilities under new mandates. This proactive approach paints a stark contrast to the lethargy exhibited by certain Republican leaders who appear to be more interested in self-preservation than in advancing party principles.
However, Senate President Ben Albritton and House Speaker Danny Perez are pushing back, claiming that DeSantis lacks concrete guidance from Trump and that any premature legislative action could hinder future policy outcomes. Their reluctance raises eyebrows, particularly in a party characterized by its supposed unity and determination to support Trump’s agenda. It seems that instead of jumpstarting action, the Republican leadership is playing a game of political chicken, unwilling to follow the lead of their governor.
Meanwhile, DeSantis is not limiting himself to immigration alone. The governor is also calling for legislation on a plethora of issues, including hurricane relief and necessary reforms in the condominium market post-Surfside disaster. In addition, he is advocating for stricter measures against fraudulent practices concerning ballot initiatives—specifically those aimed at expanding abortion rights. Despite some dissent from opponents, including Democratic leaders who say it’s a bad idea to rush a special session without public input, DeSantis remains unwavering in his pursuit of bold reforms during a pivotal moment in American politics.
As other states experience Democratic defiance against Trump’s incoming administration, Florida’s situation highlights the stark contrast in approaches. While some governors are openly resisting federal policies, DeSantis is charging ahead, proving that Florida is ready to lead the charge in making America’s immigration system great again. The question remains: will the Republican legislature get on board, or will they continue their internal squabble while the clock ticks down to Trump’s historic presidency?
