Trump officials discuss closing Florida’s Alligator Alcatraz

WorldPolitics
8 May 2026 • 5:42 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Trump officials discuss closing Florida’s Alligator Alcatraz

  • Alligator Alcatraz, the controversial immigration detention center located in the Florida Everglades, may close due to high operating costs, reportedly exceeding $1 million daily for Florida.
  • The Trump administration has been in discussions with Florida officials about closing the facility, which holds over 1,300 men, most classified as non-criminals by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
  • Despite initial support from Donald Trump and Governor Ron DeSantis, federal officials now consider the expensive facility ineffective, though DHS denies pressuring Florida for its closure.
  • Florida has not yet received a requested $608 million reimbursement from the federal government for operating the center.
  • Environmentalists and immigration advocates have criticized the facility for its impact on the Everglades and alleged inhumane conditions, with environmental groups having previously sued to close it.

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