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.

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

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