Plans for New California Immigration Detention Center Spark Controversy
In the wake of President-elect Donald Trump’s pledge to carry out the largest deportation operation in U.S. history, federal authorities are scouting locations for a new immigration detention center in California. Indicators suggest that the planned facility would house between 850 and 950 adults, potentially adding approximately 10% to the current number of detainees held by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Officials within ICE have indicated that they are focusing their search within a two-hour radius of their regional offices in San Francisco, encompassing areas such as Sacramento, San Jose, and Bakersfield. The agency has emphasized the need for additional immigration detention services within the Western United States, citing the region’s responsibility in handling immigration enforcement.
This initiative to expand detention capacity predates Trump’s victory but coincides with a tightening of asylum policies at the U.S.-Mexico border. In August, just a month after President Biden implemented stricter measures for asylum seekers, ICE began collecting data for potential new detention centers not only in California but also in Phoenix, El Paso, and Seattle.
The agency’s exploration of new facilities signifies a significant shift in immigration enforcement strategies. ICE officials have stated they are open to utilizing both publicly and privately owned sites, even considering locations currently housing other types of inmates, such as county jails and for-profit prisons.
The proposed expansion of detention capacity has sparked concern and resistance in California. The state currently houses six ICE detention centers, all operated by private companies. Attorney General Rob Bonta cautioned against the influx of new detention centers, reminding public institutions of a state law that limits cooperation with federal immigration enforcement efforts.
“No matter who is in the White House, we in California will continue to lead with California values,” Bonta stated. “We cannot allow Trump’s deportation machinery to create a culture of fear and mistrust that prevents immigrants from accessing vital public services.”
These developments underscore the growing tension between federal immigration policies and state-level efforts to protect immigrant communities. While the Trump administration vows bolder action on deportations, California officials remain committed to upholding state laws and safeguarding the rights of its residents, regardless of immigration status.
What are the potential economic impacts of building a new immigration detention center, and how do different stakeholders view those impacts?
## Plans for New California Immigration Detention Center Spark Controversy
**Host:** Welcome back. Joining us today to discuss the controversial plans for a new immigration detention center in California is Rob Bonta, California’s Attorney General. Mr. Bonta, thanks for being with us.
**Rob Bonta:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** As our viewers know, ICE is looking to build a large new facility that would house nearly 1,000 detainees. This comes amidst President-elect Trump’s promises of increased deportations. What are your thoughts on this development?
**Rob Bonta:** This news is deeply concerning. Building a new detention center of this size signifies a severe escalation in the already harsh immigration enforcement policies. [1](https://oag.ca.gov/system/files/media/immigration-detention-2022.pdf) Our office has diligently documented the inhumane conditions and inadequate healthcare within existing detention facilities in California, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Expanding this system will only exacerbate these problems.
**Host:** ICE claims the need for more detention beds stems from the West Coast’s responsibility in managing immigration enforcement. How do you respond to that argument?
**Rob Bonta:** While immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility, that doesn’t justify the inhumane treatment of vulnerable individuals. California has consistently advocated for humane and just immigration policies. We prioritize community integration and support for immigrants, not mass detention.
**Host:** Some argue that the new facility will bring jobs and economic benefits to the chosen community. What’s your response to that?
**Rob Bonta:** The economic benefits of such a facility are far outweighed by the human cost.
We must remember that these are individuals, often fleeing violence and persecution, who deserve dignity and respect. Building a massive detention center sends a message of fear and hostility, which is fundamentally contrary to the values of our state.
**Host:** Given the controversy surrounding this issue, what steps will your office take?
**Rob Bonta:** We will continue to rigorously monitor the situation. We will use every legal tool at our disposal to challenge the expansion of detention facilities and ensure the humane treatment of all individuals in custody.
California stands firmly against policies that criminalize immigrants and tear families apart.
**Host:** Attorney General Bonta, thank you for sharing your insights.
**Rob Bonta:** Thank you for having me.
