Former President Donald Trump has announced plans to reopen the iconic Alcatraz prison, which closed in 1963 and once housed infamous criminals like Al Capone. The island resort, now a popular tourist attraction in San Francisco, could be revived under Trump’s direction.
In a statement, Trump said he had instructed the Bureau of Prisons, the Department of Justice, the FBI, and the Department of Homeland Security to rebuild and significantly expand the historic prison.
Describing the move as “just an idea that came to my mind,” Trump stated that he decided to put it into practice. Speaking to reporters upon his return to Washington D.C. from Florida, Trump said, “This is a symbol of law and order.” Alcatraz, located on an isolated island surrounded by cold waters and strong currents, was once considered the most secure federal prison in the United States. Despite five inmates disappearing during an escape attempt, no official successful escape has been recorded. The prison was closed due to high operating costs—three times that of the average federal facility—especially because of its remote location. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi dismissed Trump’s proposal as frivolous. In a social media post, she stated, “Alcatraz is now a beloved national park and tourist attraction.”
