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NICEVILLE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis gave remarks during a meeting of the Governor and Cabinet in Niceville, Florida. During the meeting, the Governor and Cabinet appointed former U.S. Attorney Larry Keefe as the first acting Director of the newly created Florida State Board of Immigration Enforcement.

CFO Jimmy Patronis said “Make no mistake – illegal immigration and border security are a top priority for Americans across our country. Thanks to the Governor and Legislature, the State of Florida is leading the way on this important issue. President Donald Trump was elected on a mandate to clean up this mess, and Florida is answering that call. Having witnessed the Florida assets deployed to Eagle Pass, Texas, firsthand, I couldn't be prouder of the men and women involved in securing our nation's borders. This crisis is man-made; the Biden Administration's indifference has bankrolled drug cartels, poisoned our children with fentanyl, and facilitated increased human trafficking. Let’s not be naïve; when these individuals cross the border, they don’t just stay in Texas. Illegal immigration has created a terrible financial burden on taxpayers, bankrupting city and state budgets while honest, hard-working Americans are pushed aside. This year, Florida has come together to pass vital measures supporting President Trump’s administration in securing our borders and tackling illegal immigration.

"My Criminal Investigations Division often leads the way in identifying illegal aliens in our communities and informing federal and state officials of their status. Last year alone, these sworn law enforcement detectives made over 600 arrests for fraud, arson, and misuse of state funds. With the support of the new State Board of Immigration Enforcement, our fraud officers will continue to be a valuable asset in the fight against illegal immigration in Florida. This is the strongest illegal immigration legislation in the country, and it serves as a model for every other state to get on board. Thank you to President Trump and Governor Desantis for their leadership and to Senate President Ben Albritton and House Speaker Daniel Perez for their hard work in securing our borders and protecting our residents."

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About CFO Jimmy Patronis 
Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is a statewide elected official and a member of Florida’s Cabinet who oversees the Department of Financial Services. CFO Patronis works each day to fight insurance fraud, support Florida’s firefighters, and ensure the state’s finances are stable to support economic growth in the state. Follow the activities of the Department on Facebook (FLDFS) and X (@FLDFS).