Democratic Leader Demands Answers on Controversial Everglades Detention Facility
TALLAHASSEE – Florida House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell sent a letter to Attorney General James Uthmeier on July 1, demanding immediate answers regarding the state’s controversial new immigrant detention facility, referred to by its boosters as "Alligator Alcatraz."
Driskell condemned the facility, situated within the environmentally sensitive Everglades region, labeling it a "moral, environmental, and fiscal disgrace." Her letter sharply criticized Ron DeSantis’s decision to divert critical funds, including money earmarked for hurricane emergencies, to support the facility. The cost to taxpayers is estimated at $450 million per year, reportedly to be pulled from the $625 million FEMA Shelter and Services Program.
"Funneling hundreds of millions of dollars, intended for genuine emergencies like hurricanes, into this politically motivated venture is a flagrant misuse of public funds," wrote Driskell. More than 70% of the current emergency shelter program could be diverted to the new internment facility. "These resources are meant to protect Floridians in times of crisis, not to bankroll a performative and inhumane immigration enforcement agenda."
The letter outlines significant concerns about potential human rights abuses, environmental impacts, and fiscal irresponsibility. Driskell specifically demanded answers about detainee welfare, the hiring of qualified medical staff, evacuation procedures during hurricanes, liability for injuries or deaths, and the environmental assessments allegedly supporting Governor DeSantis’s claims of zero environmental impact.
She highlighted concerns expressed by Native American tribes, particularly the Miccosukee Tribe, which considers the land sacred and has voiced opposition to the project.
"Florida should stand for dignity and compassion, not for the creation of remote prison camps designed and marketed to inflict suffering," Driskell wrote.
Driskell's letter was copied to Governor Ron DeSantis and Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie, underscoring the urgency of her inquiries.