A protest led by New Jersey Democrats at a federal immigration facility spiraled into chaos and arrests, igniting a national firestorm over immigration, law enforcement, and political theater.
At a Glance
- Democratic officials and activists breached the ICE-run Delaney Hall Detention Center in Newark
- Rep. LaMonica McIver accused ICE of shoving her, but footage appears to show her pushing staff
- Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested after trespassing and ignoring federal orders
- DHS says detainees include “murderers, terrorists, and MS-13 gang members”
- GOP critics call the protest a reckless stunt amid rising crime and border concerns
A Clash at Delaney Hall
What began as a political demonstration quickly erupted into confrontation when Democratic lawmakers and protest groups entered the grounds of the Delaney Hall Detention Center in Newark, New Jersey. Protesters chased a bus transporting federal detainees and forced entry into the ICE facility, demanding the release of immigrants they claim are being unjustly held.
Among the protest leaders was Rep. LaMonica McIver, who accused Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers of manhandling her and Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman. However, video footage circulating on social media shows McIver physically pushing past officials in a manner that contradicts her claims.
Watch a report: ICE protest in Newark turns chaotic, Mayor arrested (YouTube).
Mayor Baraka’s Arrest
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested shortly after the breach, following repeated warnings from Homeland Security to vacate the facility. Baraka, a longtime critic of ICE and opponent of Delaney Hall’s operations, has previously filed lawsuits to shut the center down. According to U.S. Attorney for New Jersey Alina Habba, “[Baraka] committed trespass and ignored multiple warnings… That will not stand in this state. NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW.”
Baraka’s arrest drew sharp responses across the political spectrum. New Jersey State Senator Jon Bramnick noted, “It doesn’t surprise me because he’s been fighting Delaney Hall since it opened.” Meanwhile, Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop called the moment “a line-crossing in real time.”
What’s at Stake
The Department of Homeland Security insists Delaney Hall houses dangerous individuals. Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said the detainees include “murderers, terrorists, child rapists, and MS-13 gang members.” Federal officials say the protesters endangered security operations and disrupted lawful detention.
While the White House condemned the tactics used during the protest, it acknowledged the broader need to reassess detention policies. Democratic lawmakers argue that while safety is essential, current practices lack transparency and humane oversight. Critics on the right, including gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli, accused the protestors of staging “reckless theatrics” that ignore Newark’s more urgent issues.
As the legal and political fallout continues, Delaney Hall remains at the center of a debate over how America balances law enforcement, immigration control, and civil liberties.
