Florida Governor Ron DeSantis pushed back strongly against criticism over conditions at the state’s new illegal immigration detention facility, dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz,” during a press conference in Gainesville. Dismissing complaints as political theater, DeSantis defended the center’s operations, stating that detainees receive the same food as staff and are not being mistreated.

“It’s not a prison—it’s a deportation processing center,” DeSantis said, responding to claims that migrants weren’t fed well. “They were mad the ham sandwiches weren’t toasted. Excuse me? Give me a break.” The governor argued that the complaints were exaggerated and lacked context, emphasizing that everyone at the facility was treated equally.

DeSantis also accused Democratic lawmakers and left-wing advocacy groups of fabricating concerns to gain media attention and political clout. “They’re trying to get notoriety,” he said. “I’m confident that whatever’s required will be provided.” He noted that the Department of Homeland Security oversees the facility’s standards.

Kevin Guthrie, head of Florida’s Division of Emergency Management, echoed DeSantis’s sentiments during an appearance on Jesse Watters Primetime. Guthrie claimed that several lawmakers on a recent bipartisan tour of the facility seemed more interested in creating controversy than in genuinely observing the conditions. He recalled one incident where a representative pointed an infrared thermometer at a light bulb to suggest unsafe temperatures.

Another widely reported complaint involved a turkey sandwich that Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz allegedly called “gray.” Guthrie dismissed the claim, noting the sandwich was unopened and wrapped. “Nobody’s getting filet mignon,” he said, likening the food to standard institutional fare like hospital or school meals. Both officials insisted that the facility meets or exceeds all legal and safety requirements.