TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Tensions have escalated in Florida as Governor Ron DeSantis finds himself at odds with the state’s Republican lawmakers. During a special session called by DeSantis to support Trump’s immigration agenda, lawmakers quickly dismissed the governor’s proposals, surprising many observers. Just moments after the session began, the legislators closed it, only to convene their own session where they introduced a new immigration bill, disregarding some of DeSantis’ requests.
This recent conflict marks a notable shift in the dynamics of Florida’s political landscape, especially given DeSantis’ historical influence over the Republican-controlled Legislature. Once seen as a potential successor to Donald Trump, the governor’s hold over lawmakers appears to be waning as he nears the end of his second term. Senate President Ben Albritton and House Speaker Daniel Perez turned down DeSantis’ immigration measures—not due to a lack of interest in tightening immigration controls, but rather on the basis of legislative ethics. Perez remarked that special sessions should be reserved for critical matters rather than political showmanship.
The governor proposed punitive measures against officers who did not comply with immigration laws, as well as the establishment of a database to monitor money transfers to families abroad. However, Albritton deemed these proposals unconstitutional and stated he wouldn’t instruct law enforcement to break the law. He emphasized the importance of trust in leadership, indicating his support for Trump over DeSantis in this matter.
In response, DeSantis took to X, expressing relief that lawmakers were taking his suggestions into account but criticized their proposed legislation as “substantially weaker.” He was particularly concerned that giving immigration enforcement rights to the agriculture commissioner was misplaced, considering the agriculture sector’s history with immigration issues. DeSantis asserted that the Legislature’s proposals were merely a facade aiming to create the impression of a crackdown on illegal immigration but ultimately fell short of the mark. He also created a video denouncing the legislative bill as cosmetic changes rather than genuine solutions, affirming that public sentiment strongly favors stringent immigration policies.
Albritton and Perez later countered, conveying that DeSantis’ comments were disrespectful to state law enforcement and the agricultural community, asserting that their primary objective remains collaboration with Trump. Their aim was made clear with the introduction of the 75-page “Tackling and Reforming Unlawful Migration Policy” or TRUMP Act, a direct nod to the former president’s influence.
In addition to the immigration disputes, Florida joins several other states grappling with similar issues concerning Trump’s agenda, with Tennessee also starting its own special session to address the matter. Since DeSantis took office in 2018, he has leaned on his legislative allies to bolster his conservative initiatives and bolster his national profile in his bid for the Republican presidential nomination. However, the rejection of his immigration strategy indicates a significant change in the power dynamics of the state capitol, complicating his efforts to leave a lasting legacy while contemplating his political future.
Despite some legislative allies asserting that he still holds considerable influence, recent challenges, including a substantial defeat in the Iowa caucuses, have diminished his presidential appeal. Republican state Rep. Mike Caruso characterized the current scenario as a boxing match between the governor’s office and legislative leaders. Caruso, who sponsored legislation for the special session, noted concerns about whether the Legislature is merely acting on the governor’s behalf.
In a separate development, lawmakers also moved to override DeSantis’ previous budget vetoes, marking the first such override since former Governor Charlie Crist. This action signals a clear message from the Legislature that they possess the power to counter the governor’s decisions. House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell remarked that the governor has heavily utilized executive authority, but he still requires lawmakers’ cooperation to enact legislation.
Both Republicans and Democrats have praised legislative leaders for asserting their independence as a distinct branch of government. Caruso emphasized the importance of recognizing the separation of powers, highlighting that the government is composed of three distinct entities. This evolving relationship between Florida’s governor and the Legislature is likely to shape the political landscape as the state navigates an increasingly challenging environment.
