Florida Democrats inspect ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ amid flooding concerns
Democratic lawmakers are set to visit the controversial “Alligator Alcatraz,” a newly constructed illegal immigrant detention center near the Everglades and Big Cypress National Preserve in Florida. The visit is in response to reports of troubling developments at the state-run facility, which has sparked outrage among officials and environmental groups.
The delegation of lawmakers includes Florida state Sen. Shevrin Jones, Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith, and state representatives Anna Eskamani, Angie Nixon, and Michele Rayner. The visit comes just days after President Donald Trump, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem toured the site, drawing further attention to the facility.
Democrats have raised concerns about the safety and emergency readiness of the detention center, especially after reports that illegal immigrants were transferred to the facility during a flooding incident caused by rain. The lawmakers described the situation as “un-American” and criticized the project as a “makeshift detention camp of cruelty” that is rooted in corruption and political gain.
“Alligator Alcatraz,” a 30-square-mile property, is intended to house 5,000 ICE detainees and is guarded by alligators and pythons, creating a unique and controversial security system. The Trump administration approved the project, which has faced backlash from environmental groups and legal challenges.
In addition to the lawmakers’ visit, multiple environmental groups have filed a federal lawsuit to halt construction and evaluate the ecological impacts of the detention center. The lawsuit argues that officials need to pause construction to assess the potential environmental harm caused by the renovations.
The visit by Democratic lawmakers and the legal challenges against the detention center highlight the ongoing controversy surrounding “Alligator Alcatraz.” The facility has become a focal point for debates over immigration policy, environmental concerns, and government oversight. As lawmakers and activists continue to push for transparency and accountability, the future of the detention center remains uncertain.
