Several New Jersey Democrats recently found themselves in a heated confrontation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at a detention facility in Newark. The incident occurred at Delaney Hall, which houses individuals facing criminal charges who are in the country illegally.
On a Friday afternoon, House Democrats Bonnie Watson-Coleman, LaMonica McIver, and Rob Menendez, along with Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, attempted to gain access to the facility. They waited outside until a vehicle transporting detainees arrived, then rushed through the gate as it opened. This led to a clash with security personnel, and Mayor Baraka was arrested during the altercation.
The following day, the Democrats claimed they were roughly handled by ICE agents. However, the Justice Department released body-cam footage that painted a different picture. The video showed Rep. LaMonica McIver pushing past a DHS agent to enter the facility, with Rep. Menendez following closely behind. The footage also captured Rep. McIver shouting at the agents.
In response to the claims of assault, Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons defended his agents on a Fox News segment. He expressed gratitude for their efforts in maintaining safety and highlighted the challenges they face during protests. Lyons emphasized that the agents are dedicated to their work, often putting themselves in danger.
Mayor Baraka, who is also running for governor, has been vocal against the ICE detention center since its inception. Just days before the incident, he had city officials block the facility’s entrance with a bulldozer as part of his protest.
This clash between lawmakers and federal agents raises questions about the balance between oversight and security at immigration facilities, as well as the role of local leaders in shaping immigration policy.