Key West commissioners vote to end federal immigration cooperation, prompting threats of legal action from Florida’s attorney general.

Commission Divided as Immigration Partnership Is Ended

The city of Key West, Florida, has become the latest battleground in the state’s debate over immigration enforcement, as local officials voted this week to end a longstanding agreement between their police department and federal authorities. The 5-1 decision by the city commission voided the 287(g) partnership, which allowed local police to collaborate with federal immigration officers in detaining and processing illegal immigrants.

Commissioner Lissette Carey, the only member to vote against ending the partnership, expressed shock and disappointment at her colleagues’ decision. “I was the only member of the Commission who understood the consequences and respected our state and federal government enough to uphold the law,” said Carey, who is the daughter of Cuban immigrants. “I was disheartened—and frankly shocked—to find myself standing alone in recognizing the importance of upholding this agreement.”

The move comes amid President Donald Trump’s nationwide crackdown on illegal immigration, with mass deportation operations underway in multiple states. While Key West officials cited concerns over local priorities and community relations, the decision quickly drew the ire of state leaders. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier sent a formal letter to the commission, warning that their vote violated state law banning so-called sanctuary cities. “Failure to take corrective action will result in the enforcement of all applicable civil and criminal penalties, including removal from office by the governor,” Uthmeier wrote.

Legal and Political Consequences Loom for City Leaders

Governor Ron DeSantis echoed the attorney general’s concerns, stating that all local governments must comply with Florida law. Speaking at the recent opening of the “Alligator Alcatraz” detention facility, DeSantis said, “You can virtue signal and try to make political statements, but the reality is local governments have to abide by Florida law.”

Carey defended her position, stating her support for both law enforcement and legal immigration. “Key West is often seen as a carefree, liberal town, but it’s also home to conservatives like me who support law enforcement,” she said. “I honor the many contributions immigrants make to our communities, but I also believe in following the law and ensuring public safety.”

The White House weighed in as well, warning that refusal to cooperate with federal immigration authorities endangers residents. “Local officials refusing to work with federal law enforcement will not stop the Trump Administration’s mission to remove dangerous, criminal illegal aliens from American communities. It will only put American citizens living in their jurisdiction at risk,” a spokesperson said.

In contrast to Key West, other Florida cities have moved to strengthen ties with federal immigration enforcement. In Miami, city commissioners narrowly voted to enter into a 287(g) partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) last month.

The future for Key West’s city leaders remains uncertain as they face mounting pressure from state officials to reinstate the agreement or risk severe legal consequences. As immigration policy continues to polarize Florida politics, the conflict in Key West underscores the high stakes for local governments caught between state mandates and their own communities’ priorities.