In a time when cities across America are grappling with surging migration and the burdens that come with unchecked federal failures, local governments are increasingly left holding the line. That’s why Jacksonville Councilman Rory Diamond’s proposed immigration enforcement bill wasn’t just timely — it was necessary. And Mayor Donna Deegan’s veto of that bill isn’t just a political maneuver; it’s a dangerous retreat from public safety.

Let’s be clear: this isn’t about partisanship. It’s about governance, accountability, and the right of a city to protect its resources, institutions, and people. By vetoing the bill, Mayor Deegan has effectively told Jacksonville residents that their concerns about border policy and the influx of undocumented individuals are not just unfounded — they’re unwelcome. That’s unacceptable.

“This rolls out the red carpet for undocumented migrants,” Councilman Diamond said after the veto. He’s absolutely right.

What the Bill Would Have Done

Diamond’s proposal would have required the city to reject any policies that prohibit cooperation with federal immigration authorities — specifically ICE — and would have banned “sanctuary” designations for city departments and contractors. It aimed to ensure that Jacksonville would not serve as a haven for individuals who violate U.S. immigration laws.

The bill wasn’t radical. It wasn’t hateful. It mirrored legislation already enacted in other parts of the country, where cities have taken steps to reassert their sovereignty in the face of federal inaction. Most importantly, it resonated with constituents who are rightfully worried about the impact of illegal immigration on housing, schools, healthcare, and jobs.

The Veto and the Aftermath

Mayor Deegan’s veto killed the bill — at least for now. Despite strong support from conservative council members, the City Council was unable to muster the 13 votes needed to override her decision.

But this isn’t over, as Diamond made clear: “We will regroup. We’ll refile. The people of Jacksonville aren’t done with this conversation, and neither am I.”

This isn’t political theater. It’s a recognition that local communities must be empowered to make decisions in their best interest — especially when higher levels of government fall short.

Public Safety Must Come First

Critics of the bill, including the mayor, have claimed it would create a culture of fear among immigrants. But lawful immigrants — those who followed the process and worked hard to become part of this country — are not the ones this bill targets. It targets a failure in enforcement. It targets the ambiguity and legal vacuum that endangers both migrants and citizens.

In cities where policies of non-cooperation with immigration authorities have been enacted, public safety has not improved. In fact, it’s worsened. Sanctuary policies don’t protect communities; they protect loopholes. They turn city governments into political actors instead of public servants.

Jacksonville has a responsibility to its residents first — not to Washington, not to activists, and not to vague notions of political correctness.

The Fight Continues

Diamond’s passion on this issue reflects a broader concern echoed by thousands of Jacksonville residents. Whether through reintroduction of the bill, budgetary tools, or partnerships with state-level lawmakers, the push for accountability and local authority over immigration enforcement will continue.

And it should.

If Jacksonville won’t act decisively, the message is clear: we are not serious about public safety. We are not serious about protecting taxpayer-funded institutions. And we are not serious about the law.

Rory Diamond is right to continue this fight. Mayor Deegan’s veto may have won this round — but the stakes are too high to walk away.

Rory Diamond Stands Tall on Immigration: A Heroic Voice for Jacksonville as Mayor Deegan Favors Illegals

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