ORLANDO, Fla. — Standing side by side, about a dozen community and faith leaders decried the governor’s decision to use state tax dollars to pay for the flights of undocumented migrants to fly to Martha’s Vineyard.

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One person called it a “political game, a political play” so DeSantis could become president.

Watch: DeSantis defends migrant flights to Martha’s Vineyard, critics call it political theater

But while groups have sided against the decision, Gov. Ron DeSantis is not backing down, saying it’s all for the safety of people in Florida.

“The asylum process is being abused because they’re trained by activist groups to claim asylum,” DeSantis said.

READ: Surprise is key part of migrant travel from Florida, Texas

DeSantis spoke in Daytona Beach on Friday, explaining that he’s been working with the Texas governor at the border to make sure those coming in don’t make their way to Florida and instead offer flights to other places like Massachusetts.

About $12 million set aside for the state’s transportation plan, part of the $100 million budget, was used for the flight.

READ: Hispanic community leaders criticize flights of migrants sent to Martha’s Vineyard

Video: Hispanic community leaders criticize flights of migrants sent to Martha's Vineyard Gov. Ron DeSantis is being criticized after sending to Martha's Vineyard migrants who lack the correct documentation. (James Tutten, WFTV.com/WFTV)

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