U.S. Representative Greg Steube of Florida has urged police chiefs in his congressional district to participate in the Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s 287(g) program. This initiative allows state and local authorities to perform certain immigration officer functions, following President Trump’s Executive Order 14159, aimed at protecting against illegal immigration.
In a recent communication, Steube emphasized the importance of enrolling in the 287(g) program as part of a broader strategy for managing immigration issues, following what he describes as ineffective policies during the previous administration. “After four years of disastrous border and immigration policies under the former Biden administration, the American people overwhelmingly entrusted President Trump to secure our border and protect the American homeland from the violence that criminal illegal aliens have brought to our country,” he stated.
Steube’s call follows the arrest of an undocumented immigrant in Sarasota, charged with assault and sexual battery. His letter seeks clarity from police chiefs regarding their departments’ participation in or plans to join the 287(g) program. He also requested details on any federal grants or funding being solicited or received by these agencies.
His request highlights the significance he places on cooperation with ICE to address what he describes as a migrant crisis and to enhance national security. Steube noted the substantial decrease in illegal immigration under President Trump’s tenure, citing it as “the largest reduction in illegal migration in American history,” with crossings at their lowest since 1968.
