Key West Votes to Cut Ties with ICE Amid Community Uproar

Key West, Florida, USA - The recent decision by the City of Key West to terminate its agreement with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has sparked conversations throughout the community and beyond. During a special meeting on Monday night, the Key West City Commission voted overwhelmingly, six to one, to void an arrangement that had previously allowed local police to assist federal immigration agents in detaining suspected undocumented immigrants. This bold move reflects a growing sentiment against what many residents view as federal overreach.

Following significant public outcry from local business owners, church leaders, and concerned residents, the commissioners took a stand. Chief of Police Sean Brandenburg had previously signed the agreement, but it did so without the explicit approval of the city commissioners. As WSVN reports, City Attorney Kendal Harden noted that this lack of approval likely renders the agreement void. Feelings of duress also colored the discussion; Chief Brandenburg indicated that he felt pressured to sign the agreement due to threats about potential repercussions from Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier.

Community Response and Political Implications

The decision to cancel the 287(g) agreement was not made lightly. Dozens of community members gathered to express their opposition, illustrating the deep unease surrounding the role of local law enforcement in immigration matters. Key West Commissioner Samuel Kaufman emphasized during the debate the importance of welcoming political asylum seekers into the community, asserting that fear stemming from perceived political retribution should not dictate city policy.

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has indicated that the city can expect communication from his office regarding this decision, which adds another layer of complexity to the unfolding situation. Meanwhile, the Key West Immigrant Support Network reported alarming developments: ICE has reportedly apprehended individuals with legal residency, creating a climate of fear that discourages residents from attending religious services, shopping, or even sending their children to school.

Broader Context of Immigration Policies

In a broader context, the number of 287(g) agreements has increased notably since the Trump administration, with approximately 650 such agreements currently in place across the country—Florida alone accounts for roughly 43% of these partnerships. As USA Today further explains, this program has often come under fire for its association with increasing racial profiling and fear within immigrant communities.

Commissioner Donald “Donie” Lee pointedly remarked that the pressure placed on Chief Brandenburg to sign the agreement exemplified the kind of federal and state overreach that residents of Key West firmly oppose. The resolution passed also directs the police chief to refrain from entering any new agreements until a lawsuit initiated by South Miami clarifies the requirements surrounding these arrangements.

The conversation around immigration enforcement is evolving, with many cities, including those governed by Democrats, experiencing increased pressure from federal directives aimed at boosting detentions and deportations of migrants. As communities grapple with these issues, the decision by Key West may well influence conversations in other localities throughout Florida and the nation.

This audacious move by Key West signifies not only a pivotal moment for the city but also reflects the ongoing tension between local governance and federal immigration policies. The eyes of the nation will undoubtedly remain focused on Key West as the implications of this decision unfold in the days to come.