A group of Florida Democrats faced rejection from “Crocodile Alcatraz” on Thursday, after they sought to conduct “surveillance” of the facility. The lawmakers—Shevlin Jones, Carlos Guillermo Smith, Anna Escamani, Angie Nixon, and Michele Rayner—were informed by authorities that the site was deemed “unsafe,” following attempts for visitation at the facility managed by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE). In a video shared on social media, Smith criticized the facility, asserting it was “completely non-American.”
Smith remarked, “We have the statutory authority as lawmakers to exercise oversight not only on state prisons but also on detention facilities.” He expressed frustration that the officials seemed to be hiding something, leaving many questions unanswered.
In a tweet, Smith highlighted that lawmakers are legally entitled to visit state-run establishments without prior notice. He emphasized the need for transparency regarding how $450 million in taxpayer funds are being utilized.
He posed critical questions about the conditions within the facility, including whether due process rights for individuals are being respected and what evacuation plans are in place, especially given the prior flooding issues. He noted the facility would also accommodate pregnant women and children.
President Donald Trump visited a similar center at Dade Carrier Training and Transition Airport in the Everglades earlier this week.
Smith reiterated, “We won’t be silent. This is completely non-American.” He described the situation as cruel and characterized the funding as a potential “grift opportunity” for Republicans, lacking oversight or accountability.
Smith insisted on the necessity of voicing concerns, stating, “We can’t be silent.” The Trump administration recently approved plans for a facility aimed at housing and deporting illegal immigrants, a move driven by a proposal from Florida’s Republican Attorney General James Usmieire.
In a related incident, New Jersey Democrat Ramonica McQuiver was charged with assaulting an ICE agent after she and other representatives allegedly attempted to access a Newark ICE facility back in May.
Trump has enacted various executive measures targeting illegal immigration and border security, including designating certain criminal organizations as foreign terrorist threats. These efforts reflect ongoing initiatives to accelerate the deportation of gang members and enhance national security.
