DeSantis Calls Special Session to Advance Trump’s Immigration Agenda As GOP Leaders Push Back
January 16, 2025 — This Week's News from Central Florida
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DeSantis Calls Special Session to Advance Trump’s Immigration Agenda
Governor Ron DeSantis has scheduled a special legislative session for the week of January 27 to prepare the state to implement President-elect Donald Trump’s aggressive immigration policies. The move is part of a broader effort to align state-level enforcement with Trump’s federal crackdown on immigration, including stricter border security and deportation measures. “State and local officials in Florida must help the Trump administration enforce our nation’s immigration laws,” DeSantis said this week. He emphasized the need for new legislation to assign responsibilities and funding to local authorities in order to effectively support federal enforcement strategies. The governor even suggested the possibility of suspending elected officials who neglect these duties. The incoming Trump administration is reportedly preparing over 100 executive orders for swift action in the first days following his inauguration, raising concerns about the logistical and financial implications at the state level, especially with promises from the administration of “mass deportations.” The special session underscores the challenge of translating federal policies into actionable measures by states. However, the call for action by DeSantis will position Florida to be at the forefront of a national conversation on state-federal cooperation in immigration enforcement.
Gov. DeSantis also called the special legislative session for lawmakers to address condo owner relief, hurricane relief, and reforms to the citizen-led ballot initiative process for constitutional amendments.
GOP Leaders Push Back on DeSantis' Special Session Call
Republican legislative leaders in the state House and Senate are pushing back against Gov. DeSantis’ call for a special legislative session during the week of January 27, calling the action “premature.” In a joint statement, House Speaker Daniel Perez (R-Miami) and Senate President Ben Albritton (R-Wauchula) asserted the Legislature’s independence in deciding its agenda, saying the legislature—not the governor—will determine which legislation to consider. “As the people’s elected representatives, the Legislature, not the Governor, will decide when and what legislation we consider,” they said, reiterating plans to address the issues during the regular session beginning March 4. DeSantis called the special session for later this month to tackle four big issues: immigration, condo owner relief, hurricane relief, and reforms to signature-gathering petition laws for citizen-led ballot initiatives. Speaker Perez and President Albritton also criticized the governor for providing only "fragments of ideas" without concrete “bill language” or “meaningful details,” a pattern they claimed has caused past inefficiencies. The rare rebuke of Gov. DeSantis from within the GOP signals a potential power struggle in the party as leaders seek independence from the state’s executive branch. This resistance is a departure from the formerly cooperative dynamic between the DeSantis administration and the Republican-controlled legislature under former House speakers and Senate presidents who were eager to advance the governor’s agenda. During DeSantis’ tenure, the executive branch has had unprecedented influence on the legislation and policies coming out of Tallahassee, but with two years left in his term, House Speaker Perez has indicated a desire to carve out his own legacy of self-determination. While some Republican lawmakers supported the governor, others emphasized the need for clear policy language before committing. Democrats welcomed the discord, with Senate Minority Leader Jason Pizzo lauding the Legislature’s assertion of autonomy.
Trump Supports DeSantis' Call for Special Session Amid GOP Resistance
President-elect Donald Trump has endorsed Florida Gov. DeSantis' call for a special legislative session on immigration, urging state lawmakers to align with his forthcoming federal policies. “Thank you Ron, hopefully other Governors will follow!” Trump posted on Truth Social. The session, slated for January 27, aims to impose new responsibilities on local officials and require law enforcement agencies to enroll in a federal program for identifying undocumented immigrants in custody. However, House Speaker Daniel Perez (R-Miami) and Senate President Ben Albritton (R-Wauchula) have viewed the governor’s call for a special session as “irresponsible,” warning of potentially “uninformed and ill-timed state action” that could undermine the incoming administration’s efforts. Legislative action prior to “any announcements President Donald Trump will make…could potentially impair or impede the success of President Trump’s forthcoming efforts to end illegal immigration, close our borders, and protect the sovereignty of our nation,” they said in a joint statement.
Meanwhile, Gov. DeSantis intensified his push for a special legislative session on immigration, despite facing opposition from top Republican lawmakers. At a press conference on Wednesday, DeSantis expressed surprise at the criticism while accusing detractors in the legislative branch of neglecting their elected duties. "If we're gonna drag our feet in the state of Florida, then that means that elected officials are not doing what the voters sent them into office to do," DeSantis said. He emphasized the urgency of addressing immigration issues in alignment with President-elect Trump's agenda, saying, “we need action now.” “Don't be passive; be bold, be strong,” DeSantis added.
Displaced Hurricane Victims Face Housing Uncertainty as FEMA Deadlines Loom
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) concluded its transitional shelter assistance (TSA) program on January 14, 2025, for certain families displaced by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The program provides temporary housing at partnering hotels at no cost for eligible hurricane victims whose homes were lost or extensively damaged. Nearly 47,000 Floridians have been utilizing hotel and motel accommodations following recent hurricanes, but many will lose this support as FEMA reassesses eligibility. While thousands received extensions until January 28, others face uncertainty as their assistance ends. Eligibility for TSA is now reviewed every two weeks, with reasons for ineligibility including homes deemed safe to occupy, an applicant linked to another applicant already receiving FEMA assistance, alternative housing has been found, receipt of rental assistance from FEMA, or violation of program terms, among others. Of the thousands of applicants who did not receive an extension under the transitional shelter assistance program, many are uncertain where they will go as their homes remain uninhabitable. FEMA’s communication woes worsened the uncertainty by notifying many hurricane victims of their housing eligibility just days before their hotel stays were set to end, forcing them to scramble for alternative shelter. The agency will continue reviewing eligibility every 14 days for those still in the program. Individuals who believe they were erroneously deemed ineligible can contact FEMA's Helpline at 800-621-3362 or visit a disaster recovery center to review their circumstances.
Tampa Tightens Security for Gasparilla
Tampa officials are ramping up security measures for the upcoming Gasparilla festivities in response to the deadly New Year’s Day attack in New Orleans, where 14 were killed after a vehicle intentionally struck a crowd of revelers. The annual pirate-themed events, starting with the Children's Gasparilla on January 18 and the Gasparilla Pirate Fest on January 25, will see enhanced safety protocols involving over 20 federal, state, and local agencies. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor emphasized increased vigilance, promising a strong visible and covert law enforcement presence along the parade routes. Police Chief Lee Bercaw announced the deployment of thousands of officers, utilizing ground, air, and water surveillance. The FBI and ATF are committing additional resources, including intelligence and technical support. New security measures include the use of drones, surveillance cameras, and various concrete vehicle barriers. Officials are urging public cooperation, encouraging attendees to stay alert and report any suspicious activity. Text “Gasparilla” to 888777 for real-time updates on road closures and safety alerts.
Florida Grand Jury Finds No Criminal Wrongdoing in COVID-19 Vaccine Investigation
A Florida grand jury, convened at Governor Ron DeSantis’ request to investigate potential wrongdoing related to COVID-19 vaccines, has found no evidence of criminal activity. While no indictments were issued, the grand jury cited “profound and serious issues” in vaccine development and safety monitoring processes, according to the report unsealed last week. Although, the grand jury did not uncover indictable offenses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains that COVID-19 vaccines underwent rigorous safety testing and remain effective at preventing severe illness and death. The investigation was launched in 2022 at Governor DeSantis’ urging to bring accountability and gather information about vaccine side effects. As part of the 144-page report, the statewide grand jury recommended increased transparency in clinical trials and a ban on pharmaceutical advertising, aiming to address public concerns and enhance oversight in the healthcare industry. The jury's findings contrast with DeSantis's initial assertions of potential misconduct, previously implying that pharmaceutical companies “mislead and misrepresent[ed]” the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccines. The governor's office has not yet commented on the report's conclusions.
ACLU Sues DeSantis Over Delayed Special Elections
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has filed a lawsuit against Governor Ron DeSantis, accusing him of violating his statutory duty by not calling special elections for two vacant legislative seats. The seats, vacated by Rep. Joel Rudman (R-Navarre) and Sen. Randy Fine (R-Melbourne Beach) to run for Congress, remain unfilled, leaving constituents without representation during the 2025 legislative session. The lawsuit argues his failure to schedule special elections violates state law, contending that the governor has a legal duty to ensure Floridians retain their voice in government. The ACLU points to past delays under DeSantis, citing instances where court orders prompted action. A Florida Department of State spokesperson stated election dates would be announced soon. The lawsuit seeks a writ of mandamus compelling DeSantis to act timely by setting election dates for House District 3 and Senate District 19.
DeSantis Seeks Conservative Overhaul at University of West Florida, Appointing 5 New Board Members
Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed five new members to the University of West Florida’s (UWF) Board of Trustees, signaling another shift toward conservative governance in Florida’s higher education system. Among the appointees is a Boise State University professor known for controversial statements on feminism and who advocated for women to take a more traditional role in society. Another appointee is a Heritage Foundation fellow who has pushed for privatizing public universities and has criticized campus diversity initiatives. DeSantis’ office described the move as a commitment to refocusing universities on their “classical mission” of promoting academic excellence and civic preparation of students. The appointments follow a similar conservative realignment at New College of Florida in Sarasota, sparking debate about ideological shifts in education governance. DeSantis has continued to reshape the state’s higher education landscape, and critics argue the efforts result in less inclusive academic environments, politicize university leadership, and lead to greater restrictions on academic freedom. The latest appointments at UWF await confirmation by the Florida Senate and Board of Governors.
Matt Gaetz Considers 2026 Florida Governor Run
Former U.S. Representative and conservative firebrand Matt Gaetz says he is contemplating a run for Florida governor in 2026, despite facing past controversy. Speaking to the Tampa Bay Times, Gaetz highlighted his top concerns are tackling the state’s insurance crisis, emphasizing a pro-consumer approach over benefiting the insurance industry. “I have a compelling vision for the state,” Gaetz said, adding that he is still discussing the decision with his wife and praying about his next steps. As President-elect Trump’s initial pick to lead the Department of Justice as U.S. attorney general, he remains popular with MAGA supporters and has a self-described “libertarian populist” view on key issues. Now a conservative cable news host, Gaetz remains among the nation’s most polarizing political figures, widely loathed by Democrats and gaining few friends among fellow Republicans during his tenure in Congress. Being the subject of federal investigations and congressional ethics probes hasn’t helped. A recently released House Ethics Committee report found evidence that Gaetz, while serving in the U.S. Congress, used illicit drugs and routinely paid women for sex, including a 17-year-old girl. The committee found additional evidence that the Florida Republican accepted improper gifts exceeding allowable limits, used campaign funds for personal expenses, and obstructed and misled the ethics probe itself. Other investigations and allegations of sex trafficking have plagued Gaetz, who has denied all allegations and claimed they are politically motivated. Undeterred by past scandals, he maintains his confidence in his ability to win elections, including a run for governor. The Republican primary is expected to be highly competitive, with other potential candidates including U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Naples), Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, and Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody.
Related: DeSantis Brushes Off Matt Gaetz’s Gubernatorial Aspirations
Governor Ron DeSantis dismissed speculation about former U.S. Representative Matt Gaetz’s potential 2026 gubernatorial run, expressing frustration with the controversial Republican’s resignation from Congress. During a governors' meeting at Mar-a-Lago, DeSantis emphasized the importance of maintaining Republican strength in the U.S. House to support President-elect Trump's agenda. The Florida governor was critical of Gaetz’s decision to resign his seat after being tapped by Trump to serve as U.S. attorney general, saying, “The people need to be up there fighting for President Trump.” The decision, made following growing controversy, left the state’s Panhandle district unrepresented and weakened the GOP's slim House majority. DeSantis, term-limited in 2026, unimpressed with Gaetz's political maneuvering, asserted that Florida's leadership is "handled" and stressed the need to support Trump's agenda in Congress rather than speculating about the future of state-level positions.
Florida Appeals Court Sets Precedent on Drug-Sniffing Dogs and Medical Marijuana
In a precedent-setting decision, Florida’s 5th District Court of Appeal ruled that a drug-sniffing dog’s alert cannot justify a warrantless vehicle search since the dog cannot distinguish between legal medical marijuana and illegal cannabis. The ruling stems from a 2020 case in Groveland, Florida, where police stopped a Lyft driver for minor traffic violations. A drug-sniffing dog was called in and alerted to the presence of drugs in the vehicle, leading to a search that uncovered marijuana, crack cocaine, ecstasy, and methamphetamine. The defendant argued the evidence should be suppressed since the K-9 could not differentiate legal medical marijuana or hemp from illegal substances. The court agreed, stating the alert alone failed to establish probable cause, citing Florida’s medical marijuana laws. Importantly, the court emphasized that police can still use alerts from drug-sniffing dogs as a basis for searching cars, but only if the dog is trained to distinguish between legal and illegal substances or if the officer asks questions to rule out the presence of lawful cannabis.
Orlando International Airport Announces 20+ New Routes in 2025
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is set to solidify its position as one of America's busiest airports with the addition of over 20 new routes in 2025. Nine airlines will introduce flights to various domestic and international destinations, expanding MCO's reach and capacity. Nine airlines, including Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest Airlines will introduce new flights to various U.S. cities and international destinations in Germany and France. Alaska Airlines will launch seasonal services to Boise and Sacramento in January, while American Airlines' adds a seasonal Boston route. Breeze Airways has announced new services to Gulfport, Ogdensburg, and Wilmington as Delta introduces seasonal Nashville flights and year-round service to Indianapolis. March will see Frontier Airlines connect Orlando to Austin, Los Angeles, and Oklahoma City. Germany’s Discover Airlines will begin flying to Munich and Air France plans to resume Orlando service with flights to Paris in May, pending approval. This growth comes as MCO reported 57.7 million passengers in 2023, cementing its status as the seventh-largest airport in the US.
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe: A Theme Park Like No Other
Universal Orlando is set to unveil Epic Universe, the first new theme park in Orlando in over 25 years, sparking excitement for its May 2025 opening. This $6.6 billion project is poised to challenge Walt Disney World's regional dominance, offering visitors a fresh alternative to the Mouse. Epic Universe will feature five immersive lands in a hub-and-spoke layout, each accessed through themed "portals." Celestial Park is the park’s vibrant centerpiece, featuring lush gardens, interactive fountains, and attractions like the dual-launched roller coaster, Stardust Racers. Epic Universe’s theming caters to younger generations with attractions based on popular franchises like Super Nintendo World, "How to Train Your Dragon," and Ministry of Magic, an expanded Harry Potter world inspired by the Fantastic Beasts films. A unique feature is the Dark Universe, showcasing Universal's classic monsters like Frankenstein and Dracula, with music composed by Danny Elfman. Analysts believe the destination could challenge Disney’s dominance by attracting younger, gender-neutral audiences with fresh intellectual properties. Situated near the Orange County Convention Center, the park will include the Universal Helios Grand Hotel, the only U.S. hotel located inside a theme park. For Epic Universe’s opening, the company is introducing a multi-day ticket strategy that requires visitors to purchase package deals instead of a one-day ticket to the new park. The ticket packages only include one-day entry to Epic Universe. This approach aims to manage crowds and position Universal’s properties as a primary destination like Walt Disney World. Industry experts suggest Epic Universe's modern, gender-neutral themes could significantly redefine the Orlando tourism landscape. While Disney remains the dominant player, Universal's expansion is seen as its best opportunity to close the gap and potentially become the preferred choice for some families.
Direct Flights to Asia Coming Soon to Orlando International Airport
Orlando International Airport (MCO) has taken a significant step towards establishing its first direct connection to Asia. A landmark “Participation Agreement” was signed this week between MCO and South Korea’s Incheon International Airport in Seoul, paving the way for nonstop flights between the two cities. The agreement aims to enhance connectivity between Northeast Asia and Florida, following a successful trade mission to South Korea last year, led by Osceola County Commissioner Cheryl Grieb. Incheon Airport, a major global hub with 145 gates and four runways, has been a priority for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) to tap into growing passenger demand for direct flights to Asia. Annual passenger demand is projected at 150,000 between Northeast Asia and Orlando, and 350,000 between the region and Florida. The first-ever direct route from Asia to Orlando will enhance “passenger convenience” and promote robust “business and travel exchanges” between South Korea and the U.S., Incheon CEO Lee Hag-jae said in a statement. Airport officials are working to finalize details of the flight, including the airline and when service will commence.
Gasparilla Music Festival 2025 Postponed Due to Financial Challenges
Tampa’s Gasparilla Music Festival, a beloved annual event for concertgoers, will not take place in February 2025 as originally planned. Organizers announced the postponement on social media, citing “financial strain” following two years of challenges, including extreme weather and other unspecified setbacks. In 2023, day one of the concert was canceled due to poor weather, and last year, headliner Lake Street Dive made a last-minute cancellation. Originally scheduled for February 14 to 16 at Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, the festival faced mounting speculation from fans over its delayed performer lineup announcement. Organizers confirmed that ticket refunds are being processed, but no new date has been set for the music festival.
Disney’s Dinoland USA Closes for Major Redevelopment
Dinoland USA at Disney’s Animal Kingdom will soon be extinct as the park prepares for a major transformation. Beginning this week, attractions like TriceraTop Spin and Chester and Hester's Dinosaur Treasures permanently shut down, with phased closures continuing through 2025. The redevelopment will bring the new Encanto-inspired Tropical Americas Land–Pueblo Esperanza–expansion to the area. The 11-acre land will showcase South American landscapes and cultures, including a ride from Encanto and a unique Indiana Jones adventure. The fan-favorite thrill ride, DINOSAUR, will close later in 2025. Construction of the soon-to-be former Dinoland USA is scheduled to begin this fall, with the transformation slated for completion by 2027.
New Plans Emerge for Former Area15 Orlando Site
Area15 Orlando, a planned immersive entertainment complex on a vacant 17-acre lot located along I-4 at the intersection of Lake Street and Regency Village Drive, was to deliver a range of attractions, art installations, retail offerings, and dining experiences before it was officially canceled in 2024. The land once designated for the project has since been listed for sale, and a new pre-application request has been filed with Orange County for a mixed-use development called "Kingsland Grande PD/Vineland Galleria." The proposal includes commercial spaces and the potential for a hotel. The land, valued at $23 million, was originally purchased by Area15 Orlando LLC in 2022 for $24.8 million.
UCF Welcomes Four New Trustees to Its Board
The University of Central Florida (UCF) Board of Trustees has gained four new members: John Evans Jr., Mark Filburn, Anthony Massey, and Thomas McNamara ’88. These community leaders, appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis and the State University System Board of Governors, bring diverse expertise to the board. Evans, an ed-tech entrepreneur and venture capitalist, focuses on reducing recidivism through virtual reality skilled career training. Filburn, a seasoned attorney and construction executive, has extensive experience in legal and civic leadership. Massey, CEO of Massey Services, champions community and economic development initiatives, while McNamara, a UCF alumnus, has excelled in heavy civil construction and philanthropy, making significant contributions to UCF athletics. Their appointments follow the departure of trustees Joseph Conte, Caryl McAlpin ’77, and Michael Okaty ’96 ’97, whose combined two decades of service helped shape UCF’s growth and impact.
Verizon to Host Free Super Bowl Fan Fest at Tampa’s Sparkman Wharf
Verizon Super Bowl Fan Fest is coming to Sparkman Wharf in downtown Tampa on February 9 from 4:30 PM to 10 PM. The free event, exclusive to Verizon customers, will feature Hall of Famer Derrick Brooks, Buccaneers alumni, Captain Fear, and cheerleaders. Attendees can enjoy games, photo opportunities, live music, and family-friendly activities. Game-day snacks and drinks from local vendors will be available. The Super Bowl will be broadcast on large screens throughout the venue. Tickets are first-come, first-served at VerizonFanFest.com, with additional ticket releases planned ahead of the big game.
SeaWorld Orlando Welcomes 2025 with Free Beer Offer
SeaWorld Orlando is toasting to new adventures in 2025 with a refreshing promotion. From January 10 until 31, guests 21 or older can enjoy a complimentary 7 oz. beer at the Waterway Grill Patio. This daily offer runs from 11 AM until an hour before park closure, providing a perfect respite between thrilling attractions.
Guy Fieri's Chicken Guy! Brings Flavortown to Wesley Chapel
Wesley Chapel welcomes Chicken Guy!, the popular chicken tender chain co-founded by celebrity chef Guy Fieri, which opened on January 7 at Cypress Creek Town Center, 25769 Sierra Center Blvd. Known for its 10 signature sauces and all-natural chicken tenders brined with fresh lemon juice, pickle brine, and buttermilk, the restaurant offers a mouthwatering menu of sandwiches, salads, sides, and indulgent milkshakes. Highlights include the Bourbon Brown Sugar BBQ sandwich, Buffalo Mac ‘N’ Cheese sandwich, and Guy’s Chopped Salad. The Wesley Chapel location of Chicken Guy! is the first in the Tampa Bay area, with 13 other locations nationwide, including Disney Springs and Winter Park.
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