Florida Governor Ron DeSantis derides complaints about detention center food, calling demands for toasted subs a “phony narrative” in a defense of the state’s immigration policies.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis held a press conference on Friday, where he vociferously defended the state’s immigration policies and detention centers, while criticizing what he called “phony narratives” about the conditions within them.
The governor specifically referenced complaints about the food, citing a bizarre “demand for toasted hoagies” as an example of what he sees as misplaced priorities.
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The governor’s comments came during a wide-ranging discussion on immigration, where he addressed concerns from local law enforcement and counties about federal poaching of personnel and funding for detention costs. DeSantis affirmed the state’s commitment to reimbursing localities for expenses related to detaining and transporting undocumented immigrants.
However, the most pointed remarks were reserved for those criticizing the detention facilities.
“What world do we live in that you can go to someone else’s country illegally, then demand toasted hoagies?” DeSantis asked, drawing a parallel to the popular sandwich chain Jimmy John’s, which for years did not toast its subs. He argued that such complaints are part of a politically motivated effort to create negative narratives about the state’s efforts.
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DeSantis also highlighted the food at one detention site, “Alligator Alcatraz,” noting that staff and detainees eat “the exact same food.”
He contrasted this with his experience at Guantanamo Bay, where he said the same was not true. The governor suggested that these “phony narratives” may inadvertently deter people from seeking detention and instead encourage them to accept a state-provided ticket to return to their home country.
The governor’s press conference underscored his administration’s staunch position on immigration, portraying it as a necessary and efficient mission. He concluded by accusing political opponents of being “unbelievably passionate” about allowing people to remain in the country illegally, while putting the interests of American citizens “last.”
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