Florida Legislature Defies DeSantis on Immigration Policy

In a significant rebuke, the GOP-led Florida Legislature rejected Governor Ron DeSantis' call for a special session focused on immigration and other issues, instead holding their own session to pursue new immigration restrictions aligned with President Trump's agenda. Senate President Ben Albritton and House Speaker Daniel Perez criticized DeSantis' proposals as hasty and unnecessary, emphasizing that special sessions should not be mere publicity stunts. The legislative leaders are also seeking to strip DeSantis of his authority to enforce immigration policies, transferring that power to Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, who has a strained relationship with the governor. This marks a notable shift in dynamics, as DeSantis has historically maintained strong support from the Republican majority in the state. The moves underscore a rift within the party and signal a potential weakening of DeSantis' political influence as he approaches the final years of his governorship. The situation reflects broader tensions as Florida Republicans navigate their alignment with Trump's national immigration strategy.