Former New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu (R) commented on Monday about the new immigration detention facility, referred to as “Crocodile Alcatraz,” stating that it represents only a “very small piece” of the broader immigration strategy from the Trump administration.
In an interview with CNN’s Kaitlan Collins, the moderate Republican pointed out that President Trump’s extensive tax and spending bill, which passed through Congress, is set to allocate over $200 billion for defense and border initiatives.
The facility, scheduled to open on Tuesday at Dade Carrier Training and Transition Airport in the Swamp Everglades, is more about symbolism than substance, according to Sununu.
“This Alcatraz crocodile concept—5,000 beds—it’s just a small part of a much bigger picture, essentially for quick deportations,” he remarked. “I see it as very symbolic, and I think it indicates where the administration aims to steer border control and security.”
Trump is expected to attend the facility’s opening on Tuesday. Its location at the airport is intended to facilitate the swift evacuation and deportation of undocumented immigrants.
The Trump administration claims the site could accommodate up to 5,000 individuals, featuring softside holding units for hundreds of detainees. The facility, which has faced criticism and legal challenges, was developed through a collaboration between local Florida leaders and the federal government.
The Florida Emergency Management Department is responsible for overseeing its construction and management, with annual costs expected to be around $450 million. This funding will come from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s shelter and services program, which was used to house asylum seekers during the Biden administration.
Sununu expressed a preference for a comprehensive immigration reform bill, hoping for progress while Republicans maintain control in both houses.
“The detention center doesn’t concern me,” he said. “What I really want to see—many would agree—is the immigration reform bill. I think this is a great moment for Republicans to push for a sensible, conservative approach to immigration.”
“It’s about delivering a clear message that resonates with Americans,” he added.
Sununu conveyed that Republicans have public support on matters of border security and defense but expressed concern that a forthcoming legislative package from Trump may falter due to potential Medicaid cuts.
“On defense, border security, and related issues, Americans are on board, and that’s largely why they supported Trump,” he noted. “But the Medicaid situation is something they were promised wouldn’t be up for negotiation.”
He concluded that “Republicans seem to struggle with how they present these issues.”
