Overview
- The Fort Myers City Council rejected a 287(g) agreement with ICE in a 3-3 vote, blocking police collaboration on federal immigration enforcement.
- Governor Ron DeSantis and Attorney General James Uthmeier announced an investigation, citing potential violations of Florida law requiring local compliance with federal immigration policies.
- Congressman Byron Donalds called for the removal of council members who opposed the agreement, accusing them of disregarding state and federal laws.
- Council members Darla Bonk and Diana Giraldo expressed emotional and ethical concerns about the program, with Giraldo highlighting her perspective as an immigrant.
- The decision has intensified debates over state versus local authority, public safety, and the role of immigration enforcement in Florida communities.