Appeals Court supports Trump position on 'Alligator Alcatraz'
The future of Florida’s immigration detention center, known as “Alligator Alcatraz,” took a dramatic turn Thursday after a federal appeals court halted a lower court’s order to dismantle the facility.
The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals issued a stay blocking U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams’ ruling, which had demanded the site be shut down and stripped bare within 60 days. Williams, an Obama appointee whose decision was celebrated by progressive activists, had argued that the detention center violated environmental laws by failing to conduct a full review before construction.
Florida officials called the stay a major victory for President Donald Trump’s immigration agenda and a stinging rebuke of what they described as judicial activism. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier wasted no time declaring victory after the appeals court ruling was released.
“Victory secured against the activist judge who tried to stop us,” Uthmeier posted on social media. “The 11th Circuit not only blocked Judge Williams’ order to close Alligator Alcatraz, but they blocked her from proceeding with the case until the appeal is complete. A win for Florida and President Trump’s agenda.”
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Governor Ron DeSantis also praised the appeals court decision, saying the ruling means “the mission continues” for Trump’s crackdown on illegal immigration.
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The 11th Circuit’s decision puts Williams’ order on hold while the case moves forward. For now, Alligator Alcatraz will remain open for business, and detainees will not be relocated out of the facility.
Florida officials say the appeals court ruling not only preserves the state’s financial investment but also safeguards Trump’s ability to enforce immigration law without interference from what they call “rogue judges.”
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It is hard to make the case for shutting down the facility. It is safer for Americans to be able to detain threats. The so-called environmentalists look like more climate kooks.
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