Trump Proposes Reopening Alcatraz to House Nation’s Most Dangerous Offenders…
Former President Donald Trump has announced plans to reopen and expand the infamous Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, aiming to transform the historic island prison into a facility for the nation’s most dangerous criminals.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump declared, “REBUILD, AND OPEN ALCATRAZ!” He emphasized that the reopening would serve as a symbol of “Law, Order and JUSTICE,” directing federal agencies, including the Bureau of Prisons and Homeland Security, to begin plans to rebuild and expand the facility .
Alcatraz, located in San Francisco Bay, was closed in 1963 due to high operational costs and deteriorating infrastructure. Since then, it has been managed by the National Park Service and has become a popular tourist attraction. Reopening the facility would require significant investment, with estimates suggesting up to $250 million for basic repairs and $75 million in annual operating costs .
San Francisco Chronicle
Critics have expressed skepticism about the feasibility of the plan. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and California Senator Scott Wiener have labeled the proposal as “absurd” and “nuts,” questioning its practicality and cost-effectiveness . Experts argue that the facility is “totally inoperable” in its current state and would require extensive modernization to meet contemporary standards for incarceration .
Supporters of the plan argue that reopening Alcatraz could serve as a deterrent to crime and a symbol of the nation’s commitment to justice. However, the proposal faces significant challenges, including legal hurdles related to the site’s status as a national park and the logistical complexities of restoring the facility. As discussions continue, the future of Alcatraz remains uncertain.