In a bold political move that has stirred controversy in Florida, Key West decided on June 30 to sever all ties with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), terminating the 287(g) agreement that allowed local police to enforce federal immigration laws. The decision was overwhelmingly supported by six out of seven commissioners, effectively prohibiting any similar agreements in the future. During the two-hour session, residents applauded the decision, many wearing shirts emblazoned with "Migrants Keep This Island Alive."
Commissioner Samuel Kaufman, a leading advocate for the proposal, stated plainly, "Asylum seekers are vital members of our community. We have thousands here, by the way. They deserve the same respect as anyone else." This move is a clear rejection of the anti-immigrant policies championed by Governor Ron DeSantis and former President Donald Trump, as local officials refused to participate in mass deportation policies that divide families and criminalize poverty.
The city attorney, Kendall Harden, also noted that the agreement with ICE was implemented without an official vote, calling its legitimacy into question.
State Retaliation and Legal Threats
The state swiftly responded to Key West's decision. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier issued a stern warning in a letter to the Key West commissioners, threatening civil and criminal penalties and even their removal from office if they do not reinstate the ICE agreement. "You have a choice: stop obstructing law enforcement from applying immigration law or face the consequences," Uthmeier posted on his X account.
The attorney general claimed the city violated state law by canceling the agreement and reminded them that legislation signed by DeSantis in 2019 explicitly bans the creation of "sanctuary cities" in Florida. This year, the governor further tightened the regulations, requiring law enforcement agencies to cooperate directly with ICE.
Uthmeier, who has been a vocal supporter of the contentious Alligator Alcatraz detention center, stoked fear by referencing recent arrests in the Florida Keys of undocumented immigrants with criminal records, insisting that "these brutal incidents clearly demonstrate the danger posed by criminal aliens."
However, human rights organizations and local residents argue that while these cases are serious, they do not reflect the vast majority of migrants, many of whom are Cubans, Haitians, and Central Americans living peacefully, working in essential sectors, and enriching the island's cultural life.
Key Questions on Key West's Decision and its Impact
Why did Key West terminate its agreement with ICE?
Key West ended its agreement with ICE to reject the enforcement of federal immigration policies that they believe divide families and criminalize poverty, aiming to protect and respect asylum seekers within their community.
What are the potential consequences for Key West officials?
Florida's Attorney General has threatened civil and criminal penalties and the removal of Key West commissioners if they do not reinstate the ICE agreement, citing violations of state law.
How has the community reacted to Key West's decision?
The decision was met with strong community support, with residents applauding the move during the city commission meeting, many expressing their support through slogans like "Migrants Keep This Island Alive."