The percentage of inmates in private prisons is about 8% of the prison pop in the US. New Zealand and Australia top us at 11 and 19%.

The issue goes beyond privatization.

Less than 9% of prisoners are in private prisons, so I don't think that would make a significant difference. I mean it might be a good thing to do, but won't help the vast majority of prisoners.

Also need to consider the privately owned industrial complex built up around prisons. Just like defense contractors built up around the military.

The "food" providers, communication "providers", the companies paying virtually nothing for labor, etc. The folks focusing on the raw percentage of prisoners forced to stay in private prisons are missing the forest for the trees.

There are also police unions which seem to promote much worse policies than regular public service unions.

> so I don't think that would make a significant difference.

I think it would make a significant difference to the prisoners at these prisons

Sure, but the grandparent was talking about how it's not uncommon to have no TV, bad food, etc. in prison. Given that private prisons are uncommon, clearly privatization isn't the main cause of these problems.