It is a fact that Donald Trump never ceases to amaze us — and certainly not in pleasant ways. In recent days, the world has been shaken by the unprecedented behavior and statements of the American president, who now seems to have gone off the rails into levels reminiscent of dark, authoritarian eras. Not only with his words but also with his actions, Trump appears to have turned the very state of the U.S. into his personal fiefdom.
The latest incident showing just how far out of control Trump has become is an official post from the White House Twitter account, which features Trump surrounded by alligators — referencing the immigrant detention center located in the swamps of Everglades National Park in Florida, now dubbed ‘Alligator Alcatraz.’ The post presents a disturbing image of self-deification.
“Make America Safe Again,” reads the post, showing Trump next to three alligators wearing hats labeled “ICE” (Immigration and Customs Enforcement). Meanwhile, Trump’s remarks made during a visit to a migrant detention facility in Florida, where he openly threatened executions, have caused shock and concern among politicians and citizens alike.
His rhetoric echoes methods of past oppressive regimes, where authority was enforced through fear, violence, and absolute arbitrariness. At the same time, it raises serious questions about how much the image and function of American institutions have been distorted.
Deep in the wetlands of Florida, former President Donald Trump toured a new high-tech detention facility for undocumented immigrants already known by the nickname ‘Alligator Alcatraz.’ His administration promotes it as a key part of the renewed campaign of mass deportations.
During his visit on Tuesday (July 1, 2025), Trump joked about the name: ‘They call it ‘Alligator Alcatraz,’ and that’s very fitting. I looked outside, and it’s definitely not a place I’d want to go hiking soon.’ He continued: ‘You know, snakes are fast. But alligators… We’ll teach them (the detainees) how to run away from alligators, okay? If they escape, here’s how to run: Don’t run straight, zig-zag like this,’ making a characteristic hand movement.
Funded by federal funds from FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency), the facility has been built to host up to 5,000 detainees. Speaking during his visit, Trump stated: ‘Very soon, this facility will house some of the most dangerous migrants, some of the most violent people on the planet. We are surrounded by endless swamp. The only way out is deportation.’
White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt told reporters: ‘There is only one road in and one way out — a flight with no return. The location is isolated, surrounded by dangerous wildlife and an unforgiving environment.’
The so-called ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ has already triggered fierce reactions. Legislators, human rights organizations, and environmental groups have expressed serious concerns. On X, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus posted: ‘Hurricane season is ongoing, and this government is only putting more people at risk. ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ is a sick political stunt.’
Environmental defenders have condemned the ‘unacceptable and unnecessary risk’ to the unique ecosystem home to over 2,000 species of flora and fauna. Environmental organizations have already taken legal action to stop the facility’s further operation.
But another issue arises — Trump’s insistence on turning institutions like the White House into personal marketing tools. He did it now with the immigrant detention center, previously with the golden statue in Gaza, where he tried to project a god-like image of himself disconnected from reality.
In February 2025, a video released by Trump showed him drinking cocktails with Netanyahu while Elon Musk enjoys luxury in the paradisiacal Gaza. Trump declared he would take over Gaza and turn it into the Riviera of the Middle East. The video shows images of the flattened Gaza Strip, where armed individuals and children run among ruins. Suddenly, the children emerge from destroyed Gaza and find themselves before an oasis — palm trees, yachts, half-naked dancers, and money.
Of course, Trump’s vision wouldn’t be complete without Elon Musk, his former right-hand man. Trump is seen dancing traditional Middle Eastern dances. A golden statue of Trump looms over the center of Gaza, while children joyfully run with golden balloons bearing Musk’s face. The video continues with Trump and Netanyahu enjoying cocktails in swimsuits by a pool, with the letters ‘Trump Gaza’ visible in the background. Throughout the AI-generated video, Trump is shown throwing money like rain, with children running to catch the bills.
This new reality Trump tries to present as normal since assuming the presidency for a second term is deeply concerning. When a U.S. president — leader of the world’s strongest superpower — chooses to threaten executions and turns institutions into personal estates, the challenge for all is to stand against this dangerous regression.