President Donald Trump made headlines Monday during a visit to a newly constructed detention facility in the Florida Everglades, dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz,” where he launched sharp criticisms at former President Joe Biden. Speaking alongside Governor Ron DeSantis and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Trump suggested that Biden had hoped to see him imprisoned, referencing past legal indictments stemming from the 2020 election and classified documents case.
“Biden wanted me in here,” Trump said while standing next to cages outfitted with beds for detained migrants. “Didn’t work out that way, but he wanted me in here, that son of a b—-.” The remark reignited attention on the bitter political rivalry between the two former presidents.
Background on Indictments and Legal Closure
Trump has long claimed that the federal indictments he faced in 2023—led by Special Counsel Jack Smith—were politically motivated. The cases, related to efforts to overturn the 2020 election results and the handling of classified documents, were ultimately closed following Trump’s reelection in 2024.
Tour of “Alligator Alcatraz”
The new detention center, located approximately 37 miles from Miami, is projected to cost $450 million annually and will house an estimated 5,000 detainees. Positioned in a region populated by alligators, crocodiles, and pythons, the facility’s setting has become symbolic of Trump’s hardline stance on immigration.
“This is not a nice business,” Trump said to reporters ahead of the visit. Offering advice on evading wildlife, he added with a sweeping hand gesture, “Don’t run in a straight line. Run like this,” referring to how to escape an alligator.
The White House has leaned into the imagery surrounding the facility, portraying it as emblematic of the administration’s crackdown on illegal immigration.
Biden’s Health and Political Exit
President Biden, who opted not to seek reelection in 2024 following a difficult debate performance, was diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer earlier this year. His decision to step aside came amidst growing questions over his political future and health condition.
This is not the first time Trump has used harsh language to criticize Biden. In July 2023, he referred to Biden as a “dumb son of a b—-” during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.
Political Implications
Trump’s visit and comments mark a continued escalation in rhetoric as his administration moves forward with policy implementation and messaging ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The tour of the facility, along with renewed criticism of Biden, underscores Trump’s strategy of using bold visuals and populist language to reinforce his immigration agenda and energize his base.
