I hope this letter finds you safe and well. I write to you today as an Asian‑American Republican and long‑time resident of Southwest Florida—working quietly behind the scenes but now on the fence about running for Florida’s 19th Congressional District seat, held by Representative Byron Donalds. I value your trust and want to be fully transparent about the motivations and challenges I’m wrestling with.
1. Why I’m Considering a Run
I’ve built my life here—rooted in values of hard work, community, and family. As an Asian‑American conservative, I’ve often felt overlooked in our political representation, especially in a district as diverse as ours. If I run—and win—I’d bring fresh perspective: a commitment to conservative principles, shared typical life paths in faith, education, small business, and public safety, but with deeper representation of our Asian‑American communities and an eye toward bridging cultural divides.
2. The Stakes: Immigration, Community Safety, and Trust
One major issue dominating the regional and national conversation is the recent establishment of the “Alligator Alcatraz” immigration detention center in Collier County’s Everglades. Built in late June 2025 through an executive order, this facility—named after the notorious Alcatraz prison and sited in remote swamps—can detain up to 5,000 migrants. It is operated by the Florida Division of Emergency Management alongside DHS, and began receiving detainees in early July 2025.
This facility was erected quickly and secretly—local officials in Collier were not informed until construction had already begun. It has raised serious concerns over executive overreach, environmental damage to the Everglades, and human rights. Critics call it “inhumane,” “psychological terror,” and “degrading,” especially in light of reports of worms in food, lack of medical care, and unsanitary tents.
Proponents, including Gov. Ron DeSantis, former President Trump, and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, defend it as a necessary deterrent to illegal immigration and a model for expanding federal-state partnerships.
3. A Litmus Test for Leadership
This issue crystallizes a broader clash of values. As your potential House candidate, I view “Alligator Alcatraz” as a critical litmus test for conservative leadership in FL‑19:
If we prioritize lawfulness and border security, we must also ensure due process, environmental stewardship, and humane treatment.
If we distrust overreach, especially where emergency powers sideline local voices, we must demand transparency and oversight.
If we believe in fiscal responsibility, we must weigh the estimated $450 million/year price tag, diverted from hurricane and disaster relief funds.
If we champion conservative compassion, we must balance firm enforcement with fundamental decency and respect for legal norms.
4. My Tentative Vision
If I choose to run, here’s what voters can expect from me:
Responsible border policy: Support comprehensive immigration reform—deterrence when warranted, but also legal pathways, watchdog enforcement, and clear congressional oversight.
Oversight of detention practices: I will push for House hearings and full transparency regarding “Alligator Alcatraz” and similar facilities. Local, environmental, tribal, and human rights voices must be heard.
Environmental stewardship: Protect fragile ecosystems like the Everglades—especially when emergency actions risk long-term damage.
Community safety and fiscal discipline: Staffed with local input, facilities must operate within budget and legal standards—not as political theater.
Bridging representation gaps: As an Asian‑American Republican, I’ll fight stereotypes, amplify immigrant success stories, and strengthen conservative outreach to diverse communities.
5. Why This Matters for Lee, Charlotte, and Collier
Lee County: With expanding families, retirees, and a robust business base, voters want secure borders—but also sustainable growth and preserved quality of life.
Charlotte County: Rural and suburban voters seek assurance that their voices aren’t drowned out—or bypassed—by state executive orders.
Collier County: The epicenter of the controversy, where residents were blindsided. They deserve accountability and stronger local input.
Across all three counties, voters can reinforce what kind of leadership they want: conservative, yes—but also just, humane, and community-focused.
6. Your Role in This Decision
Before deciding, I’m listening—to you.
What concerns do you have about “Alligator Alcatraz”?
Would you support a conservative candidate who emphasizes oversight and human dignity?
What other issues—economy, education, healthcare—top your list for Congress?
Your feedback right now will shape whether or not I step forward. I’ll host listening sessions in our communities soon, and I invite all of you to join the conversation.
This is more than just a possible campaign; it’s a moment of truth. Will Southwest Florida accept a candidate who seeks to blend strong conservative values with principled oversight and compassionate governance? Your voices can make this happen.
Thank you for considering, for caring, and for being part of shaping our region’s future leadership.
With respect and hope,
Jenny Lu
Southwest Florida Resident &
Potential Republican Candidate for FL‑19
