Laura Loomer, a prominent far-right political commentator and ally of Donald Trump, has claimed that alligators in Florida will be assured 65 million meals at the detention facility dubbed "Alligator Alcatraz," where ICE plans to house thousands of undocumented immigrants. Loomer shared this assertion in a post on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing that "alligators' lives matter." She stated, "The good news is they are guaranteed 65 million meals if we start now."
The remarks were perceived as a thinly veiled allusion to the entire Latino community in the United States. According to statistics from 2023, the Hispanic or Latino population in the U.S. was estimated at 65.2 million, making up 19.5% of the nation's total population.
In another post, following widespread criticism, Loomer added, "What's an alligator's favorite food? An illegal alien child molester. Unfortunately, we have a political party in our country trying to deprive alligators of adequate sustenance. Alligators need to eat too."
The debate has been further fueled by comments from Trump during his visit to the detention center, located in the Everglades. When asked by Fox News if the facility's purpose was to use alligators to prevent escapes, the former president quipped with a smile, "I guess that's the concept." He went on to jokingly advise that detainees be taught "how to flee from an alligator," suggesting that running in a zigzag pattern would "increase escape chances by 1%."
Controversial Reactions and Political Implications
Supporters of the facility, such as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, argue that the swampy terrain offers a "low-cost natural perimeter" to deter escapes. However, Loomer and Trump's comments have been condemned for their dehumanizing tone and for normalizing the use of wild animals as a method of immigration control.
Loomer previously found herself at the center of controversy when her proximity to Trump coincided with the dismissal of high-ranking officials in key agencies. Among those were General Timothy Haugh, director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and U.S. Cyber Command, and his deputy Wendy Noble, both removed following a private meeting between Loomer and Trump.
The Facility and Its Criticism
"Alligator Alcatraz" serves as a migrant detention center in Florida's Everglades, named for its resemblance to the infamous Alcatraz prison and its surrounding alligator population. It was established as part of an initiative to strengthen U.S. immigration policy during Trump's presidency.
The center has faced backlash from human rights organizations and environmentalists due to the harsh conditions faced by detainees and the negative environmental impact on the Everglades. The facility, capable of housing up to 5,000 migrants, is designed to process and deport immigrants with criminal records. It is encircled by dangerous wildlife, purportedly acting as a natural security barrier. Instead of permanent structures, the facility uses tents.
The estimated annual operational cost is $450 million, some of which may be reimbursed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This expenditure has sparked controversy over its high cost and the perceived inhumanity in the treatment of migrants.
Understanding Alligator Alcatraz and Its Impact
What is "Alligator Alcatraz"?
"Alligator Alcatraz" is a migrant detention center located in the Everglades of Florida, known for its alligator population and its function in U.S. immigration policy enforcement.
Why is "Alligator Alcatraz" controversial?
The facility is controversial due to its harsh conditions for detainees, environmental impact on the Everglades, and the dehumanizing rhetoric used by its proponents.
How much does the facility cost annually?
The annual operational cost of "Alligator Alcatraz" is estimated at $450 million, with some costs potentially reimbursed by FEMA.
What are the main criticisms of the facility?
Critics highlight the facility's high cost, inhumane treatment of migrants, and the negative environmental impact as primary concerns.