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Governor Mike Braun didn’t mince words about the mission. “We are proud to work with President Trump and Secretary Noem as they remove the worst of the worst with this innovative partnership,” Braun declared Tuesday. “Indiana is taking a comprehensive and collaborative approach to combating illegal immigration and will continue to lead the way among states.”
The funding comes directly from Trump’s recently signed legislation—humorously titled the Big, Beautiful Bill—which greenlit sweeping immigration reforms and resources for expanded enforcement.
This Speedway-based facility is being integrated under the Department of Homeland Security’s 287(g) program—a little-known but powerful framework that enables ICE to collaborate directly with local law enforcement to detain and deport illegal aliens. Indiana’s full embrace of this program marks a stark contrast to Democrat governors who have repeatedly tried to block ICE operations.
“COMING SOON to Indiana: The Speedway Slammer,” said DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. “Today, we’re announcing a new partnership with the state of Indiana to expand detention bed space by 1,000 beds. Thanks to Governor Braun for his partnership to help remove the worst of the worst out of our country. If you are in America illegally, you could find yourself in Indiana’s Speedway Slammer. Avoid arrest and self deport now using the CBP Home App.”
The warning is crystal clear: if you’re here illegally, there’s no more hiding in sanctuary cities or hoping for leniency. The Trump administration is ramping up removals, and Indiana is now on the front lines of that battle.
While border crossings have slowed in recent months due to tightened restrictions, the damage from the Biden-era open-door policies has already been done. Homeland security officials estimate that over 12 million illegal migrants entered the U.S. under Biden’s asylum loopholes—many of whom are now facing deportation orders.
To help speed up removals, DHS has even launched an incentivized campaign urging non-criminal migrants to self-deport. According to Fox News, those who voluntarily leave could be eligible for up to $1,000 in relocation support and may be allowed to reapply for legal entry later. The catch? They must have no criminal record and must depart before being detained.
With the Speedway Slammer set to open its doors, Indiana is drawing a hard line on illegal immigration—and making it crystal clear that the era of sanctuary loopholes is over.
As Governor Braun made clear, “We’re not just enforcing immigration laws—we’re setting the national standard.”
