<h1>Challenge to $1.2B veteran-minority set-aside contract for detention camp raises transparency, capability, and oversight concerns under FAR Part 33</h1> A federal agency awarded a up-to-$1.2 billion contract to a small veteran- and minority-owned firm to build and operate a large immigration detention camp on a military base despite limited demonstrated experience and prior small awards; the military declined to release the contract or selection rationale. A losing bidder has filed a protest with the Government Accountability Office and a related federal court appeal is pending, challenging the award and the accelerated timeline. The solicitation required the contractor to provide security, medical care and strict confidentiality regarding congressional and media inquiries. Issues raised include procurement set-asides, transparency, contractor capability, potential teaming with large private prison operators, and oversight risks.