TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The battle between Gov. Ron DeSantis and state GOP lawmakers has become more public and continues to heat up.

During a special session, called by GOP legislative leaders, both chambers passed an immigration bill called Tackling and Reforming Unlawful Migration Policy, or the TRUMP Act. Gov. DeSantis announced plans to veto the legislation, once it reaches his desk.

Common Cause Florida Executive Director Amy Keith spoke to Battleground Moderator Ty Russell about lawmakers passing complex immigration policy in a matter of days.

Victor DiMaio, who serves as the president of the Hillsborough County Democratic Hispanic Caucus, spoke on concerns he’s hearing from members of his own party and in the county.

Many people throughout Florida have recently checked their mail and noticed they’ve received a petition from Smart and Safe Florida. That’s the group behind Amendment 3, which didn’t get enough voter support in 2024 to legalize recreational marijuana.

The group has mailed petitions to homeowners in an attempt to get the amendment, with tweaks, on the 2026 ballot.

Political Director Morgan Fox, with the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws or NORML, spoke about the renewed push in Florida to get voters to legalize cannabis.

Battleground Florida airs every Sunday at 9:30 am on News Channel 8.