Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida has challenged media reports that predicted negative economic consequences from the state's stricter immigration law. A recent Washington Examiner article highlighted Florida's positive economic performance, showing a 3.2% GDP growth from Q1 to Q2 2024 and the addition of approximately 133,000 jobs between October 2023 and October 2024, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, respectively.

DeSantis addressed these findings on X, criticizing the media's pessimistic forecasts and emphasizing the success of Florida's approach. He argued that these positive outcomes demonstrate the effectiveness of policies designed to discourage illegal immigration, contrasting them with policies that incentivize it.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks about a toll highway relief program during a press conference held at the Greater Miami Expressway Agency in Miami on April 1. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Previously, critics had voiced concerns that stricter immigration policies would negatively impact Florida's economy by reducing the available workforce for jobs often filled by undocumented immigrants. However, DeSantis linked a 2023 law, requiring hospitals to collect patient immigration status data, to a subsequent 50% decrease in Medicaid spending. He cited data indicating a drop in Florida's Emergency Medical Assistance program expenditures from fiscal year 2023 to 2024, reaching $67 million.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis attends the drivers meeting prior to the NASCAR Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida, on Feb. 19.  (Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images, File)

While patients are not obligated to disclose their immigration status, concerns have been raised about the potential deterrent effect on immigrants seeking medical care. Federal law prohibits undocumented immigrants from receiving Medicaid benefits, except in emergencies.

The new law also incorporates measures such as mandatory E-Verify, restrictions on issuing IDs to undocumented immigrants, potential license suspension for employers hiring undocumented workers, and increased funding for transporting undocumented immigrants to sanctuary jurisdictions.