WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – Controversial ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ migrant detention centers could pop up around the country.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem has announced that she is discussing with five Republican governors about establishing similar facilities in their states, even though Democratic lawmakers are expressing concerns about the conditions.
“It needs to be shut down,” said Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.).
As Democrats criticize the facility the Trump administration is touting it as a major success.
Alligator Alcatraz is operated by the state of Florida and is funded through federal resources. Secretary Noem believes it might serve as a blueprint for new immigration detention centers. She mentions being in conversation with five governors regarding the development of comparable facilities in their states.
“I will say, they are all Republicans, and I challenge some Democrats to step up, partner with us in making your communities safer,” Noem stated.
Secretary Noem wouldn’t share which states she’s talking to, but she says new facilities would be very helpful as the Trump administration tries to ramp up deportation efforts.
“As you all know, we need to double our capacity in detention beds because we need to facilitate getting people out of this country as fast as possible,” said Noem.
Florida Congressman Maxwell Frost toured the detention center over the weekend and says he was horrified by what he saw.
“It’s all a cruel stunt. Cruelty isn’t just the point, it’s the strategy in this,” said Frost.
Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz described unsafe and unsanitary conditions, including unbearable heat and bug infestations.
“There are really disturbing, vile conditions,” she said.
Secretary Noem disputed that saying the facility is held to high federal standards.
“Any issues that were there have been addressed,” said Noem.
