Senator slams $100k daily cost of migrant detentions at Guantanamo

U.S. Senator Gary Peters criticized the Trump administration's decision to detain migrants at the Guantanamo Bay naval base, saying it costs an estimated $100,000 per detainee each day, far more than the $165 daily cost at standard immigration facilities in the U.S.

During a Senate Homeland Security hearing, Peters questioned Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem about the expenses, calling it a striking example of government waste. He also pointed out that many detainees are eventually flown back to the U.S. at additional taxpayer expense.

The White House has requested $44 billion in extra funding for immigration enforcement in the upcoming fiscal year starting October 1, aiming to support President Trump's deportation policies. Noem did not confirm the cost of Guantanamo detentions during the hearing, and her department hasn't issued a statement.

An anonymous official confirmed that around 70 migrants are currently being held at Guantanamo. The ACLU previously sued to stop transfers of 10 migrants there, claiming they were subjected to harsh conditions, including near-total isolation, strip searches, and lack of contact with family. Some detainees reportedly attempted suicide.

Republican Senator Rand Paul also raised concerns about high spending on border security, especially the proposed $46.5 billion for the border wall, arguing for more reasonable investments, like increasing Border Patrol staff.

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