The stark differences in immigration enforcement policies between Florida and Minnesota have taken center stage as Governor Ron DeSantis firmly positions his state in alignment with federal ICE operations.
Story Highlights
- Governor DeSantis warns against violence toward law enforcement in Florida.
- “This is not Minneapolis” statement underscores Florida’s cooperative stance with ICE.
- Jennifer Cruz faces multiple charges after assaulting a state trooper.
- Religious leaders express concerns but fail to meet with the Governor.
DeSantis’s Firm Stand on Law Enforcement
On January 16, 2026, Governor Ron DeSantis addressed the media following ICE operations conducted in Northeast Florida in cooperation with the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP). He clearly warned Floridians against any violence toward ICE agents and state law enforcement, echoing his phrase “This is not Minneapolis” to emphasize Florida’s distinct approach to federal cooperation. This statement came in response to an incident where Jennifer Cruz allegedly assaulted a state trooper during one of the operations, leading to multiple charges against her.
DeSantis’s comments sharply contrast with Minnesota’s approach, where state officials have resisted federal enforcement efforts. The Governor’s remarks signify Florida’s commitment to maintaining law and order by working alongside federal agencies. He affirmed that any assault on law enforcement would be met with serious consequences, setting a precedent for strict enforcement policies that align with the Trump administration’s stance on immigration.
GOV. DESANTIS: “THIS IS NOT MINNEAPOLIS”
Vince Butta shares a video of @GovRonDeSantis remarks following a woman’s arrest for assaulting ICE agents in Florida.
“That’s what leaders do.”@damonroberts @lfs6b @rickdelgadorad @slickricksports @paul_eggsNolan @KDJRadioShow pic.twitter.com/4UtIgKrBjQ
— Real America's Voice (RAV) (@RealAmVoice) January 17, 2026
Community Concerns and Unmet Dialogues
Despite the firm stance of the Governor, religious communities in Florida have voiced concerns over the ICE operations. A group of Baptist pastors attempted to meet with Governor DeSantis to discuss these concerns but were unable to secure a meeting. The Governor’s office stated their support for equipping ICE agents to perform their duties effectively and suggested that a formal meeting might be scheduled in the future. This lack of immediate dialogue highlights ongoing tensions between state policies and community perspectives.
DeSantis reiterated that while Floridians have the right to protest and criticize government policies within designated areas, any form of violence against law enforcement is unacceptable. The incident involving Jennifer Cruz serves as a reminder of the legal implications of resisting immigration enforcement, reinforcing the Governor’s message of zero tolerance for such actions.
Watch:
Long-term Implications of Florida’s Approach
Florida’s cooperative approach with federal authorities stands in stark contrast to Minnesota, where state officials have legally challenged the federal immigration crackdown. This divergence may influence other states’ policies regarding immigration enforcement, potentially leading to a varied national landscape of cooperation and resistance. For Florida, the cooperation with ICE is seen as a necessary measure to ensure public safety and uphold the rule of law.
The fallout from the Cruz incident, combined with Governor DeSantis’s strong rhetoric, may bolster his political standing among conservative constituents who prioritize law and order. However, it also raises questions about civil liberties and the humanitarian impacts of such rigorous enforcement policies, which remain a point of contention for community leaders and activists.
Sources:
Facts: Ron DeSantis Immigration and Customs Enforcement Florida
DeSantis Warns Against Violence Toward ICE Agents
Minnesota Officials Sue to Block Trump’s Immigration Crackdown
Ron DeSantis Calls for Ilhan Omar’s Deportation
