In a move that can only be described as a political tango, Ron DeSantis has called a special legislative session to align Florida's immigration laws with Trump's anticipated policies, proving that the Sunshine State might just be the new backstage for political theater.

As DeSantis prepares for a special session starting January 27, 2025, he’s poised to turn Florida into the first state to fully embrace Trump’s immigration agenda, including making the 287(g) program mandatory and stripping in-state tuition from undocumented students. While his actions may spark outrage among some Floridians, they’re likely to earn him a golden star from the incoming administration—proving that, in Florida, the political dance card is always full and the choreography is decidedly right-leaning.

DeSantis’s move comes at a time when he anticipates a 'sea change in policies' concerning immigration once Trump officially steps back into the Oval Office following his swearing-in on January 20. It's as if DeSantis believes that the migration of policy ideas is as natural as the migration of birds—or at least as natural as Florida's alligators sunning themselves in the winter sun. He seems quite ready, if not eager, to assist in implementing what he views as a much-needed overhaul of immigration enforcement.

Florida's legislation is set to not just align but bind itself tightly with Trump’s future executive orders, signaling that DeSantis might be aiming for a legislative symphony rather than a solo act. His plans to expand immigration enforcement and hold local officials accountable for maintenance—or lack thereof—of these laws signify a robust approach to what he sees as a critical issue. Anyone caught napping on the job might even face suspension, leading some local officials to ponder just how much coffee will be necessary to effectively keep up with state demands.

One notable component of DeSantis’s strategy is the removal of incentives for illegal immigration in Florida. This includes efforts to eliminate in-state tuition for undocumented students. Surely, it’s a bold move, particularly in a state known for its theme parks rather than its high-minded immigration policies. Adding this to the mix reminds us that in Florida’s political realm, educational benefits are on the chopping block faster than you can say ‘Disney World.’

However, not all states are harmonizing with DeSantis's immigration composition. Across the country, Democratic governors, including California's Gavin Newsom, have taken a more defiant stance against Trump's expected immigration policies. While DeSantis prepares to march in lockstep, others are rallying to resist, showing that the political landscape is as diverse and colorful as Florida’s famous sunsets.

Despite the ideological differences, DeSantis has received supportive choruses from figures such as Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody. Their backing could very well embolden the governor, ensuring that the upcoming special session receives a rousing ovation—not from the floor of a Broadway theater, but perhaps from the local chapters of the Florida Republican Party.

As the special session approaches, it’s evident that DeSantis believes he’s tuning into the urgency of the immigration issues at hand. His commitment to funding local officials enforcing immigration laws shows he intends to create a well-lit stage for the enforcement of policies; after all, empty pockets don’t make for compelling performances. Some may find this to be a portrayal of state autonomy, while others may argue it resembles a power play in a high-stakes political drama.

In summary, DeSantis’s legislative maneuvering represents not just a shift in statewide immigration policy but potentially paves the way for Florida to be a concurrent host for Trump's anticipated national agenda. With his moves, he may solidify Florida’s image as a breeding ground for political innovation—or perhaps more accurately, political imitation. It remains to be seen how Floridians will react to this impending immigration makeover, but one thing is certain: they’ll have no shortage of material for their ongoing live political commentary. And isn't that what democracy is all about?