Larry Keefe Appointed to Lead Florida’s Immigration Enforcement Board
Introduction
Larry Keefe, a veteran trial attorney and former public safety czar under Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, has been selected to head the newly created immigration enforcement board in the Sunshine State. This board, established during a special legislative session, aims to implement President Donald Trump’s immigration policies.
Keefe’s Role in Marthas Vineyard Migrant Flights
Keefe played a pivotal role in organizing a controversial planeload of illegal immigrants from Texas to the affluent island of Marthas Vineyard in 2022. This incident thrust the issue of illegal immigration into the national spotlight, as wealthy liberal enclaves experienced firsthand the challenges faced by border towns.
Appointment to Immigration Enforcement Board
Following the Marthas Vineyard flight, DeSantis praised Keefe’s work and hailed it as a turning point in the immigration debate. During a recent special legislative session, the Florida legislature established an immigration enforcement board, and Governor DeSantis appointed Keefe as its executive director.
Keefe’s Expertise and Background
Keefe has extensive experience in immigration law and interdiction efforts. As public safety czar, he worked closely with law enforcement agencies across the state to address illegal immigration and its impact on public safety and resources.
Board’s Mission and Funding
The newly created immigration enforcement board is tasked with bolstering the state’s immigration enforcement efforts. It has been allocated a budget of $250 million, which Keefe will have discretion over to implement various initiatives.
Trump-Inspired Immigration Policies
The board’s agenda is heavily influenced by President Trump’s immigration policies. It aims to restrict illegal immigration, enhance border security, and collect data on the impact of illegal immigration on the state.
Attorney General’s Nomination
Attorney General James Uthmeier nominated Keefe to lead the board, citing his impressive track record in immigration enforcement and his role in organizing the Marthas Vineyard flights.
DeSantis’s Support for Keefe
Governor DeSantis expressed his full support for Keefe’s appointment. He praised Keefe’s leadership and determination to address illegal immigration in Florida.
Keefe’s Role in the 2024 Election
DeSantis believes that Keefe’s work, particularly the Marthas Vineyard flight, significantly altered the immigration debate and brought it to the forefront of the national conversation. He credits Keefe’s efforts with contributing to the outcome of the 2024 election.
Conclusion
Larry Keefe’s appointment to lead Florida’s immigration enforcement board is a significant development in the state’s efforts to address illegal immigration. His experience, coupled with the board’s ample funding and authority to implement Trump-inspired policies, is expected to have a substantial impact on the immigration landscape in Florida and beyond.
