Roughly 200 U.S. Marines have been deployed to Florida to support immigration operations, underscoring how military resources are sometimes used in domestic, non-combat roles. The mission was approved by the Department of Defense under Title 10 of U.S. law.

Officials emphasized that the Marines’ role is strictly limited. Their duties include administrative and logistical work such as paperwork, data entry, and supply coordination, and they are not permitted to carry out law enforcement activities or interact directly with detainees.

The deployment was driven by heavy case volumes in Florida, where immigration systems are under strain. Leaders said the additional support allows Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers to focus on responsibilities that require specialized training and authority.

The move has sparked public debate about the presence of military personnel in civilian contexts. Critics are calling for transparency and oversight, while officials maintain that the mission is closely monitored to ensure all legal boundaries are respected.