Florida Opens 'Alligator Alcatraz' Detention Center

United States — Florida has opened a new immigration detention center, dubbed 'Alligator Alcatraz', deep in the Everglades. The facility, built in eight days, has an initial capacity of 3,000 detainees and is expected to expand to 5,000 beds. United States — Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced the arrival of the first immigrants, stating they would be deported. Governor Ron DeSantis authorized the seizure of county-owned land using emergency powers for the center. Donald Trump visited the facility, praising it as a potential national model for mass deportations. The United States — United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and United States — United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) are involved in logistical operations, though DHS has stated no federal funds have been used for construction. The facility faces opposition from environmental groups, human rights advocates, and Native American tribes due to concerns about its impact on the Everglades, detainee conditions, and its location on sacred land. United States — Florida Democratic Party lawmakers have also conducted a site visit to investigate. The United States — Republican Party (United States) is using the center for fundraising.