Trump Plans Reopening Alcatraz Amid Feasibility Concerns

President Donald Trump has announced plans to reopen Alcatraz prison to house violent criminals, describing it as a symbol of law, order, and justice, and directing government agencies to begin the process. Supporters, including Attorney General Pam Bondi, argue that reopening and expanding Alcatraz would deliver cost savings and serve as a strong deterrent, while border czar Tom Homan suggests it should be considered for housing significant public safety threats, though he admits lacking cost estimates. However, critics, including prison consultants and state and local officials, highlight the plan's impracticality given Alcatraz's history of exorbitant operational expenses, which led to its closure in 1963, and the current dysfunction and staffing shortages within the federal prison system. The Bureau of Prisons, which is already struggling with crumbling facilities and chronic understaffing, would require a massive influx of funding and manpower to restore Alcatraz. Historical context provided by the BOP contradicts claims of potential cost savings, noting the island's isolation made it nearly three times more expensive to operate than other federal prisons. Experts widely doubt the feasibility and practicality of reviving the infamous penitentiary.