In a notable shift in tone during mid-March 2026, Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd—serving as chair of the Florida State Immigration Enforcement Council—advocated for a “path forward” for undocumented residents who have no criminal history and are positively contributing to society.
While Judd maintains his strong support for the mass deportation of “criminal troublemakers,” he argued that “one size doesn’t fit all” and that the government should focus its resources on those creating havoc rather than those “living the American dream.”
Judd’s Proposed Criteria for a Legal Path
Judd suggested that for undocumented residents to earn a legal status, they should meet several specific requirements:
- Clean Record: Must have no criminal history and not be “violating the law.”
- Economic Independence: Must be employed and not reliant on “the taxpayer dollar” (government assistance).
- Language & Integration: Must learn to speak English and show evidence of positive community influence.
- Accountability: Must pay a civil fine for the initial illegal entry into the country.
- Family & Education: Should have children enrolled in school and be active in the community (e.g., attending church).
Context of the Recommendation
This recommendation emerged during a council meeting on March 16, 2026, and was further clarified in a press conference the following day.
| Point | Detail |
| The “Think Tank” Role | Judd clarified that the council is a advisory body, not a policy-making one, and his comments were meant as a “common sense” suggestion for Congress. |
| Clarification on ICE | Despite advocating for a path for “the good folks,” Judd explicitly stated he still “wholeheartedly supports and endorses ICE” and the deportation of criminals. |
| Frustration with Congress | He gave Congress an “F minus” for their handling of the issue, stating that a clear path for non-criminals would free up law enforcement to focus on violent offenders. |
| Response to Criticism | Judd pushed back against media reports suggesting he was “rebelling” against Governor DeSantis or the Trump administration, calling such claims “rhetoric.” |