The Fort Myers City Council faced heavy criticism after initially voting against a partnership with ICE, a decision some called a betrayal of citizens. Governor Ron DeSantis warned that Florida law now requires local police to assist federal immigration enforcement. He threatened to suspend council members if they didn’t comply, calling their resistance unlawful.
The council’s first vote failed 3-3, with members claiming unanswered questions about liability and priorities. Critics argued this refusal put politics over public safety, risking Florida’s status as a non-sanctuary state. Councilwoman Darla Bonk initially opposed the deal, questioning costs and officers’ legal risks, but later reversed her vote under state pressure.
DeSantis stood firm, emphasizing that cooperation isn’t optional. “The days of inaction are over,” he declared, backed by Attorney General James Uthmeier, who launched an investigation into the council’s defiance. The reversal came Friday when the council unanimously approved the ICE agreement, avoiding penalties.
Residents packed meetings, with many fearing ICE collaboration would lead to racial profiling. One parent worried school resource officers might target students. Conservatives countered that illegal immigration fuels crime, citing the 2018 murder of Officer Adam Jobbers-Miller by an undocumented immigrant.
Protesters blasted the council’s initial vote as soft on border security. DeSantis supporters cheered the reversal, calling it a win for rule of law. Critics, however, accused the state of bullying local leaders into submission.
The debate highlighted tensions between federal mandates and local control. Conservative voices argued that protecting citizens requires tough enforcement, dismissing “sanctuary city” policies as dangerous. The council’s turnaround shows Florida’s commitment to stopping illegal immigration, they said.
Mayor Kevin Anderson called the initial vote “embarrassing” but praised the final decision. The council’s flip demonstrates the power of state laws holding local governments accountable. Florida’s approach could set a national example for immigration enforcement.
This saga proves that standing with law enforcement matters. The council’s surrender to state pressure highlights the importance of electing leaders who prioritize safety over woke agendas. DeSantis’s firm stance sends a clear message: Florida won’t tolerate cities siding with illegals.
