BRADENTON, Fla. — Gov. Ron DeSantis on Tuesday responded to criticisms about the decision to move migrants from Venezuela on their way to Florida through Texas to Martha’s Vineyard.


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During a stop in Bradenton to discuss tax relief proposals, the governor said he stands by the decision, and he also was critical of President Biden’s border security.

"Because it's our view that one, the border should be secure,” he said. “And we want to have Biden re-institute policies like 'Remain in Mexico' and making sure that people aren't overwhelming. But short of that, if you believe in open borders, then it's the sanctuary jurisdictions that should have to bear the brunt of the open borders."

His comments came as a Texas sheriff has launched a criminal investigation into DeSantis’s migrant flights. Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar said the migrants were lured and exploited for political purposes.

The governor announced tax cuts that he's looking to propose next year, focused on families.

During a stop in Bradenton, he suggested a number of year-long and permanent tax exemptions for products parents buy — similar to the tax cut on diapers from back in May.

The governor said he is looking to permanently cut taxes on things like cribs and strollers, along with a full year of tax exemptions on children's books, toys for kids 12 and up, athletic clothes for under 18, and even household items $25 or less.

DeSantis also proposed expanding back-to-school tax-free holidays to two weeks leading into the fall.

“This is $1.1 billion just what i announced here. Then you look at the toll relief which is $400 and $500 million. And we're not done yet," he said.

The governor added that he is looking to propose a permanent tax break on medical supplies and equipment.