Over 250 people gathered in the beating sun July 19 to protest what could become Florida’s next immigration detention center. Protesters gathered across a nearly mile-long stretch across the road from Camp Blanding Joint Training Center in a heat index near 105 degrees.

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.

TPM has obtained and analyzed over a dozen contracts and invoices related to the construction and operation of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ so-called “Alligator Alcatraz” migr

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."