Trump Dismisses DeSantis Rivalry Amid Launch of Florida's Contentious Detainment Facility

Just months after the Trump administration attempted to diminish Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' stringent immigration initiatives, the two former Republican rivals united on Tuesday to inaugurate a new migrant detention facility in the Everglades. Trump and DeSantis inspected the site, affectionately termed “Alligator Alcatraz,” strategically located on a secluded airstrip enclosed by swampland. Reflecting Trump’s immigration goals, DeSantis utilized emergency powers to expedite the land acquisition and construction, with Trump praising his collaboration with officials. “Ron, how quickly was it?” Trump queried. “Eight days, a new facility was operational,” DeSantis responded. Despite their camaraderie, tensions have surfaced since DeSantis announced his candidacy for the 2024 Republican nomination, with Trump feeling overshadowed. Concurrently, local law enforcement in Florida has adopted policies aligning with Trump’s immigration stance, significantly contributing to ICE agreements. With the new facility set to house 5,000 individuals, DeSantis remained committed to supporting federal immigration mandates, despite facing legislative setbacks on broader deportation powers.