Trump Administration Expands Migrant Detention in Indiana with New 'Speedway Slammer'
Trump administration expands Indiana migrant detention by 1,000 beds, including the 'Speedway Slammer,' with state collaboration, as ICE detainee population surpasses 57,000.
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Overview
- The Trump administration, alongside Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Indiana DOC, is expanding migrant detention capacity by 1,000 beds in Indiana.
- This expansion includes a new facility dubbed the 'Speedway Slammer,' part of a broader White House initiative to bolster immigration enforcement efforts.
- The project is financially supported by the 'Big Beautiful Bill,' which fully funded 287(g) and specifically allocated funds for increasing holding space for undocumented immigrants.
- Indiana GOP Governor Mike Braun is actively collaborating with these federal efforts, though the Indianapolis Motor Speedway has voiced disapproval over the use of its imagery.
- ICE's daily detainee population has significantly risen to over 57,000, up from under 40,000 in January, with most detainees not having criminal convictions.
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Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame this story by emphasizing the controversial nature of the 'Speedway Slammer' moniker and the broader immigration enforcement partnership. They highlight the immediate backlash from local entities and sports officials, using evaluative language like 'outlandish' to describe the name. The coverage also contextualizes the agreement within existing concerns about similar federal programs, focusing on public and programmatic criticisms.
"The outlandish name quickly drew backlash, notably from the town of Speedway, an Indianapolis suburb which is home to the iconic racetrack that hosts the Indianapolis 500."
Chicago Tribune"The outlandish name quickly drew backlash, notably from the town of Speedway, an Indianapolis suburb which is home to the iconic racetrack that hosts the Indianapolis 500."
Associated Press"Critics argue the nickname trivializes the harsh conditions in ICE detention."
USA TODAYArticles (9)
Center (3)
FAQ
The 'Speedway Slammer' is a new migrant detention facility in Indiana created through a partnership between the Department of Homeland Security and the Indiana Department of Corrections to expand Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention capacity by 1,000 beds. Its purpose is to house individuals arrested by ICE, particularly those considered 'criminal' immigrants.
Indiana is collaborating closely with the federal government, with Governor Mike Braun supporting the expansion efforts, including signing an executive order for law enforcement cooperation on immigration enforcement. The state is providing facilities like the Miami Correctional Center and exploring using Camp Atterbury military base to house detainees temporarily.
The ICE daily detainee population has risen significantly to over 57,000, up from under 40,000 in January 2025, reflecting increased immigration enforcement under the Trump administration.
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway expressed disapproval of the use of its imagery in the naming and promotion of the 'Speedway Slammer.' Additionally, some critics have opposed expanded detention facilities for immigrants, citing concerns about swift deportations and limited legal recourse for detainees.
Prior to the 'Speedway Slammer,' the Trump administration expanded ICE detention in Florida with the controversial 'Alligator Alcatraz' migrant detention center. They hope to replicate such facilities near airports and jails nationwide to intensify immigration enforcement.
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