Ron DeSantis and his repressive policy for immigrants. Photo: AFP

Washington, June 26 (RHC) The governor of Florida and Republican pre-candidate for the presidency of the United States, Ron DeSantis, today defended implementing of a repressive policy for immigrants that would include the detention and mass deportation of undocumented immigrants.

During a campaign rally in Texas, the conservative advocated an end to birthright citizenship, proposed militarizing the southern border, and assured that he would complete the construction of a wall in the border region with Mexico.

"For decades, leaders of both parties have made empty promises on border security, and now is the time to act to stop the invasion once and for all," DeSantis stated as quoted by CBS News.

He added that, once he becomes president, he will declare a national emergency from day one and will not rest until the wall is built, "the illegal entry is shut down and the war against the drug cartels is won."

Unlike former President Donald Trump (2017-2021), DeSantis does not explicitly insist that Mexico will pay for the wall but said that to achieve that end, his administration would collect "tax remittances from illegal aliens" and penalize countries that attempt to evade collection.

He ruled that he would end the so-called "catch and release" policy, which allows some people to live in the United States while awaiting a court hearing on their immigration and asylum claims.

Instead, his proposal calls for detaining undocumented immigrants until their hearing date, a policy that would likely lead to tens of thousands being held for an indefinite period.

As governor, DeSantis has adopted controversial policies related to asylum seekers.

In addition to organizing flights to bring immigrants to northern states in an operation that drew widespread condemnation from Democrats and civil rights advocates, he also signed a controversial law that will take effect July 1 in Florida.

Among its provisions, the strict legislation limits social services for undocumented immigrants, invalidates their driver's licenses issued by other states, and forces hospitals that receive federal funds to inquire beforehand about a patient's citizenship status. (Source: PL)