At a press briefing on Wednesday, Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) expressed shock that Democrats defend illegal immigrants sent to Alligator Alcatraz.

The camp was first announced by Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, who is DeSantis’ former chief of staff and was manager of the governor’s unsuccessful 2024 presidential campaign, late last month.

The state has a $37 million contract that includes funding for permanent and temporary fencing and roadway construction

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said on Wednesday he wants the detention facility, dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz,” to be at full capacity before moving forward with the plans to turn Camp Blanding into an immigration detention site.

The Florida governor relied on an executive order to seize the land, hire contractors, and bypass laws and regulations.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) reportedly left county officials in the dark when he decided to create the 'Alligator Alcatraz' migrant detention facility in Southwest Florida, according to The Associated Press.

While the new Everglades migrant detention center fends off complaints about its living conditions, some detainees claim guards are also doling out discipline for questioning rules — including standing in the hot Florida sun for extended periods.