Red States Establish ‘Speedway Slammer’ as New Immigration Detention Center
Governor Mike Braun of Indiana has partnered with the Trump administration to create a 1,000-bed immigration detention center at the Miami Correctional Center, named the ‘Speedway Slammer’. This facility is intended to be part of a broader strategy to combat illegal immigration, following the model of Florida’s ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ detention center.
The new detention center, located in Miami County between Indianapolis and Fort Wayne, is named as a tribute to Indiana’s racing heritage, including the iconic Indianapolis 500 race. Governor Braun expressed pride in the collaboration with the Trump administration, emphasizing Indiana’s commitment to innovative approaches in addressing the issue of illegal immigration.
The funding for the Speedway Slammer comes from the federal reconciliation bill recently signed by President Trump, which allocates resources for immigration enforcement and the expansion of detention infrastructure. The Trump administration’s approach has been characterized by a combination of stricter border controls, increased detention capacity, and efforts to encourage voluntary deportation through incentives such as financial assistance and travel support.
Meanwhile, the ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ facility in Florida, which opened this summer, has been a focal point for the administration’s immigration policies. The facility, which was originally a defunct airport in the Everglades, is set to expand its capacity and continue operations under the guidance of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and federal officials. The use of state funds for the initial operation of ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ has transitioned to include support from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, signaling a broader federal commitment to the initiative.
Environmental concerns have emerged regarding the location and operation of ‘Alligator Alcatraz’, with organizations such as the National Parks Conservation Association criticizing the establishment of a detention center in the Everglades. These activists argue that the harsh environmental conditions and the facility’s remote location pose significant risks to the health and safety of detained individuals, especially during periods of extreme heat and hurricane season.
The expansion of detention centers and the promotion of self-deportation measures highlight a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy, with states taking an increasingly active role in enforcement. This trend reflects the administration’s emphasis on comprehensive immigration reform, albeit through methods that have sparked considerable debate and legal scrutiny.