During a press conference on July 16, 2025, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis lashed out at the Florida House of Representatives for introducing an amnesty bill that would've made the "Alligator Alcatraz" immigration detention center illegal.

The camp was first announced by Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, who is DeSantis’ former chief of staff and was manager of the governor’s unsuccessful 2024 presidential campaign, late last month.

Potential effects include increased light and air pollution, habitat degradation for endangered species such as the Florida panther, and waste spills.

A lawsuit claims detainees at Florida’s 'Alligator Alcatraz' are denied legal access, with no way to challenge their detention or contact attorneys.

"Immediate action was taken to separate and remove the detainee in accordance with federal protocols," said Stephanie Hartman, a spokeswoman for the Florida Division of Emergency Management, which oversees the site.

The Miccosukee Tribe of Florida cites "significant concerns about environmental degradation" and threats to "traditional and religious ceremonies."

Dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz,” the massive tent detention complex built deep in the Florida Everglades can hold 3,000 and could be the template for other facilities in other states.