The U.S. Department of Defense has confirmed that about 200 U.S. Marines have been sent to Florida to provide administrative and logistical assistance to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Officials stressed that the Marines will not be involved in immigration enforcement or policing activities and will serve only in support roles.
Defense officials said the Marines are assigned to duties such as communications support, coordination of facility operations, transportation planning, and supply management at ICE facilities. The deployment is intended to ease operational pressure on ICE staff as certain locations continue to experience high demand and staffing strain.
Florida is one of several states receiving this temporary assistance, along with parts of Texas and Louisiana. ICE facilities in these regions have reported operating near capacity, prompting federal agencies to seek additional logistical help to maintain daily operations without expanding enforcement authority or altering existing procedures.
The deployment has prompted public discussion, with some lawmakers and advocacy groups expressing concern about the presence of military personnel in immigration-related settings. Supporters argue the move is a practical response to logistical challenges and note that similar support roles have been used during emergencies and large-scale federal efforts. Federal officials have stated the mission will be limited in scope, closely monitored, and carried out in accordance with U.S. law and established oversight standards.