The filing Monday of a motion to intervene in the case initially brought by environmental groups signals a new level of opposition by the tribe, which is also a major political donor in the state.

An advisor to the Miccosukee Tribe says Gov. Ron DeSantis is threatening his legacy as an environmentalist by leading the way on Alligator Alcatraz.

"The Tribe remains committed to ensuring its traditional lands are not used as a detention facility," the tribe said in a statement.