Miami Mayor Eileen Higgins has expressed her intentions to push back against the federal immigration agency ICE, highlighting her opposition to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’s immigration stance. In her recent statements, Higgins mentioned her plan to potentially withdraw the city from the federal 287(g) program, which allows local law enforcement to collaborate with ICE in enforcing immigration laws. If implemented, this move could signal a significant shift in local immigration policy and would demonstrate a clear contrast to DeSantis's approach.

The context surrounding this issue is complex, as DeSantis is a prominent figure in the Republican Party and an ally of former President Donald Trump, advocating for strict immigration measures. Higgin's position thus represents more than just a local policy change; it is a political statement in the face of a broader national debate on immigration. It underscores the division between local leaders who prioritize immigrant rights and those who align with federal policies that are often seen as punitive towards immigrants.

However, Higgins's plan is not without its challenges. To successfully limit cooperation with ICE, she would need to navigate a landscape filled with potential legal and political hurdles. As she prepares to counter DeSantis, her administration will need to consider the implications of their actions, both on the local immigrant community and the political ramifications of defying the state government's policies.