Overview:
President Trump visited the “Alligator Alcatraz” detention center under construction in Ochopee, Florida. Joined by Ron DeSantis and Kristi Noem, he discussed the facility’s future, promoted GOP tax cuts, and told California Governor Gavin Newsom to “come here and learn something.”
OCHOPEE, FL
President Donald Trump made a high-profile appearance today in the Florida Everglades. He toured the new immigration detention facility being built in Ochopee, which he has informally dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz.”
Joined by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, the president walked reporters through a portion of the sprawling site. It is designed to hold up to 5,000 individuals as part of his expanded immigration enforcement strategy. With swampland on all sides and limited road access, the location was selected for its isolation and natural barriers. Trump called the setup “smart, efficient, and impossible to escape.”
The question
During the visit, President Trump fielded questions from reporters regarding the facility’s timeline. While no official opening date was announced, he emphasized that the center would begin receiving detainees “soon.” He noted it represents a new standard in immigration processing.
When asked what advice he would give to California Governor Gavin Newsom, Trump didn’t hold back.
“First thing you do is come here and learn something,” he said. “Because they don’t do this — they wouldn’t know where to begin. And if they did know, it would cost them 100 times more.”
Trump then encouraged Newsom to reach out to either Governor DeSantis or Secretary Noem. This was for advice on immigration management and cost efficiency.
Debate
The president also took the opportunity to promote the GOP’s tax and spending cuts bill currently under debate in Congress. He described the bill as “crucial to rebuilding American strength.” He reiterated his belief that the economic plan will lead to historic gains for working-class families and national infrastructure.
“Alligator Alcatraz” is part of a broader Trump 2025 immigration policy package. This includes fast-tracking deportations and building isolated detention zones in rural areas. Critics have voiced concern about human rights oversight, while supporters praise the administration’s commitment to immigration control and national security.
Governor DeSantis and Secretary Noem declined to comment directly on Trump’s remarks about Newsom. However, they expressed strong support for the project’s goals and its alignment with federal priorities.
With July 4th approaching, the president’s visit appears designed to spotlight GOP unity on immigration and economic reform. Additionally, it aims to send a pointed message to Democratic leaders across the country.
