FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 24, 2023

CONTACT
Juan Gastelum, gastelum@immigrantjusticefund.org, 213-375-3149

WASHINGTON — Kica Matos, president of the NILC Immigrant Justice Fund (IJF), issued the following statement in response to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ plans to run for President in 2024:

“Even in the most virulent, anti-immigrant presidential primary field in modern American history, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis stands out as one of the most extreme candidates. As a congressman, DeSantis supported a range of harsh, failed policies, which he has continued as governor. The recent anti-immigrant legislation he championed in Florida is cruel, regressive, and contrary to the values Americans hold dear. Florida SB 1718 casts a broad net, targeting families, workers, and other everyday people, as well as people who travel there. The repercussions of his policies are extremely negative and alarming.

“Now, DeSantis is trying to bring his extremist plans to a national stage, in a losing strategy that a strong majority of Americans have rejected time and time again. Most voters recognize what is true: immigrants are a strength to our nation. We value freedom, safety, and self-determination – all of which would be immediately under attack should DeSantis reach the White House. Everyone living America, no matter where we were born, should have the freedom to thrive. Instead, Ron DeSantis’ authoritarian vision for America would make us less safe and less free.”

Read IJF’s analysis about Ron DeSantis’ history of extreme anti-immigrant policies here.

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