Edith Hejberg
Burgum said the federal government was initiating work to “renovate and reopen the site,” reviving Alcatraz’s original function as a prison for high-risk inmates.
Top Trump administration officials visited Alcatraz Island on Thursday, exploring the possibility of reopening the infamous prison as part of Donald Trump’s pledge to detain “America’s most dangerous criminals and illegals.”
Interior Secretary and Attorney General Lead Island Tour
Doug Burgum, Trump’s interior secretary, and attorney general Pam Bondi led the delegation to the San Francisco Bay landmark.
Burgum said the federal government was initiating work to “renovate and reopen the site,” reviving Alcatraz’s original function as a prison for high-risk inmates.
Alcatraz: From Prison to Park to Political Flashpoint
Alcatraz closed in 1963 due to exorbitant operational costs and now serves as a National Park Service museum, drawing 1.4 million visitors annually.
Its potential transformation back into a prison has ignited widespread opposition, particularly from California Democrats and local officials.
Nancy Pelosi Slams Proposal as “Lunacy”
Former House Speaker and longtime San Francisco congresswoman Nancy Pelosi condemned the idea, calling it “the Trump administration’s stupidest initiative yet.” She criticized the proposal as a “diversionary tactic” and questioned the logic of pouring billions into a facility while the federal debt balloons.
Trump’s Broader Agenda: Lock Up ‘Ruthless Offenders’
In May, Trump announced his intention to reopen and expand Alcatraz to house the country’s most violent criminals.
The announcement came amid a storm of criticism over the administration’s refusal to release further Jeffrey Epstein files, raising questions about political timing.
Burgum: “Alcatraz Is a Global Brand for Incarceration”
Speaking to Fox News, Burgum defended the initiative, noting Alcatraz’s international reputation as a secure facility. “Its original use was a prison,” he said, adding that the visit was part of assessing the feasibility of reviving that role for the modern era.
Enormous Costs, Dubious Practicality
Experts say returning Alcatraz to prison use would be a logistical nightmare. Operating costs were historically triple those of other prisons, largely due to its remote location.
At its peak, nearly 1 million gallons of water had to be shipped to the island weekly.
Historic Landmark, Not a Jail
The island holds deep symbolic value, especially for Native American communities.
A 19-month Indigenous occupation began in 1969, transforming Alcatraz into a landmark of cultural resistance. Since opening for public tours in 1973, it has been preserved as a historic site—not a place of incarceration.
San Francisco Mayor: “There’s No Realistic Plan”
Mayor Daniel Lurie dismissed the proposal outright, stating, “There is no realistic plan for Alcatraz to host anyone other than visitors.” He urged that any federal funds earmarked for the project be redirected to public safety, cleanliness, and economic recovery in San Francisco.
Newsom’s Office Ridicules the Plan
Governor Gavin Newsom’s office responded with biting sarcasm: “Pam Bondi will reopen Alcatraz the same day Trump lets her release the Epstein files. So … never.”
The remark encapsulates the skepticism and frustration many in the state feel toward the administration’s plan.
