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FLORIDA - Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier launched a controversial “Alligator Alcatraz” merchandise line after turning a migrant detention center into a political brand and national flashpoint.
Just hours before former President Donald Trump toured the Everglades-based compound, Uthmeier unveiled a campaign store selling branded mugs, T-shirts, and bumper stickers.
The online shop features over 20 items with the facility’s name and imagery, including $25 mugs and $30 t-shirts.
Proceeds will reportedly help fund Uthmeier’s 2026 run to retain his position as attorney general.
The merchandise campaign has already become a political lightning rod, sparking national debate and fueling headlines across NBC News, Politico, and The Guardian.
The rollout of the merch line coincided with Trump’s visit to the controversial site, where the former president praised Uthmeier for selecting the remote Everglades location.
Supporters say the branding move is smart political strategy and a rallying cry for immigration hardliners.
Critics, however, call it tasteless and opportunistic, especially given the environmental lawsuits and human rights concerns tied to the facility.
Uthmeier, appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis earlier this year, has used the spotlight from the project to boost name recognition statewide.
His merchandise launch comes just months after his political action committee raised more than a $1 million dollars, further solidifying his front-runner status in the upcoming attorney general race.