DeSantis Promises to Deputize State and Local Law Enforcement to Target Illegal Immigrants

‘State and localities have the authority to enforce immigration laws, as long as they’re upholding the law,’ Mr. DeSantis said.

Republican presidential candidate Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks to guests during a campaign rally at the Thunderdome in Newton, Iowa, on Dec. 2, 2023. Scott Olson/Getty Images

Presidential candidate and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis promised to deputize state and local law enforcement with the authority to enforce immigration laws to address illegal immigrants if he were elected president.

“As president, I am going to deputize state and localities,” the Florida governor said during an interview with CBS’s “Face the Nation” on Jan. 7 when asked about the roles of federal and local authorities over immigration.