Democratic congressional candidate for Florida’s 27th District, Robin Peguero, has made a bold promise to close the migrant detention facility commonly referred to as Alligator Alcatraz. Peguero also criticized Republican Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar for endorsing the facility’s conditions.
Peguero, a former homicide prosecutor from Miami and a Harvard graduate, spoke with CiberCuba, directing sharp criticism at Salazar for visiting the detention center and describing its conditions as acceptable.
“The congresswoman remains silent, doesn’t say a word... She visits Alligator Alcatraz, which I believe should be shut down, and claims the conditions are somewhat acceptable. She uses the word cages, and yes, they are cages, people in cages, but she uses it without concern. As if it doesn’t matter to her,” the candidate stated.
When asked directly whether it mattered to him that people were kept in cages, Peguero replied unequivocally, “Yes, of course it does.”
Advocating for Dignity and Due Process
Peguero’s stance was clear: “We must close Alligator Alcatraz. We need due process. We need dignity. Not citizenship, real dignity is about protecting people in our communities and closing detention centers like Alligator Alcatraz.”
The candidate further accused Salazar of remaining silent about the mass deportations of Cubans under the Trump administration, highlighting that “this administration has deported far more Cubans than any other in history.”
As the son of Dominican and Ecuadorian immigrants raised in Hialeah, Peguero expressed his belief that the Cuban community would be safer with him in Congress. “I grew up with Cubans. I have so many friendships with Cuban people, and for me, the important thing is that I am an immigrant or the child of immigrants, but I identify with that struggle,” he declared.
Proposing Anti-Corruption Measures
The week before the interview, Peguero introduced an anti-corruption plan which includes age limits for congressional candidacies, a maximum of 12 years of legislative service, and a complete ban on congress members buying stocks in companies they oversee.
In this context, he directly accused Salazar: “Congresswoman Salazar has finished purchasing stocks in defense companies that she oversees as a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee. That, to me, is unjust, corrupt, and unethical.”
Controversy Surrounding Alligator Alcatraz
Located in Florida’s Everglades, Alligator Alcatraz has faced systematic allegations of inhumane conditions since its opening in July 2025, such as overcrowding with up to 32 people per cage, showers every three days, and insufficient food.
The facility holds an average of 700 to 800 Cubans, with 70% lacking final deportation orders, according to dossier data.
Operating at a cost exceeding a million dollars daily, recent reports have suggested potential discussions to shut it down due to high expenses, although the Department of Homeland Security has denied any pressure.
Peguero is competing in the Democratic primary on August 18, 2026, against Elliot Rodríguez and Lev Parnas, aiming to challenge Salazar in the general election on November 3. Discussing his motivation for entering politics instead of pursuing a private sector career, Peguero was straightforward: “My parents were veterans and chose to serve the public as military members. I have always, always said: I will serve the public.”
Frequently Asked Questions about Robin Peguero's Campaign
What is Robin Peguero’s main campaign promise?
Robin Peguero has pledged to close the detention center known as Alligator Alcatraz, criticizing its conditions and the support it has received from his opponent, María Elvira Salazar.
What are the conditions like at Alligator Alcatraz?
The facility has faced allegations of overcrowding, with up to 32 individuals per cage, limited shower access, and inadequate food provisions since its opening in 2025.
Who is Robin Peguero competing against in the Democratic primary?
Robin Peguero is running in the Democratic primary against Elliot Rodríguez and Lev Parnas.