Ron DeSantis: Florida law requires local officials to cooperate with ICE on illegal immigration

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is reinforcing his administration's policy of mandatory cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. He emphasized that Florida law is explicit in requiring local officials to assist federal efforts against illegal immigration, drawing a distinction with states like Minnesota that have sanctuary policies limiting such collaboration.

DeSantis's stance comes amid heightened attention on immigration operations. His administration's policy, which began during Donald Trump's presidency, has been linked to a rise in migrant arrests. According to Bloomberg Opinion columnist Mary Ellen Klas, the ICE office in Miami recorded 41,000 detentions between January 2025 and March 2026, a figure higher than in other U.S. jurisdictions.

The governor reiterated his position in a social media post, stating, "Florida law is clear that local officials must cooperate with federal law enforcement on illegal immigration. This is not Minnesota." This reference highlights the state's divergence from policies that restrict cooperation between local police and ICE.

The article notes that Florida has a large immigrant population, with a significant number of undocumented individuals, particularly in South Florida. The state's system can lead to immigration proceedings for minor infractions, impacting many foreign nationals. The ICE announced results from an agreement with a Florida county in late 2025, underscoring the ongoing implementation of these policies.

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Florida law is clear that local officials must cooperate with federal law enforcement on illegal immigration. This is not Minnesota.