Dem lawmakers defend ‘storming’ of ICE facility
A trio of Democratic lawmakers from New Jersey, including Reps. LaMonica McIver, Bonnie Watson Coleman, and Rob Menendez, recently made headlines after they “stormed” an ICE facility in Newark. The lawmakers justified their actions by accusing President Donald Trump’s administration of “weaponizing law enforcement.”
During a joint appearance on CNN’s “State of the Union,” the lawmakers explained their reasoning behind the incident. Rep. Coleman claimed that chaos ensued when ICE officials were instructed to lock up the mayor of Newark, Ras Baraka, on private property outside the facility. She described this action as un-American and intimidating, accusing the administration of lying at all levels.
The lawmakers, along with Mayor Baraka, were caught on video storming the Delaney Hall Detention Center in Newark. The incident resulted in Mayor Baraka being arrested and charged with trespassing, while an ICE agent was allegedly assaulted during the confrontation.
In response to accusations that she “body slammed” law enforcement officers, Rep. McIver denied the claims, stating that there is no video evidence to support such allegations. Rep. Menendez argued that it was the responsibility of ICE officers and other law enforcement to de-escalate the situation, emphasizing the need for accountability in such situations.
While the lawmakers objected to ICE detentions, they acknowledged that the inmates appeared to be well-treated and living in good conditions inside the facility. However, they maintained their stance against ICE practices and called for a more humane approach to immigration enforcement.
Footage released by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) showed Rep. McIver allegedly pushing through law enforcement near the gate of the detention center. The DHS captioned the video, highlighting the confrontation between the lawmakers and ICE agents.
As of now, DHS has not confirmed any pending charges against the lawmakers involved in the incident. The situation remains under investigation, and the lawmakers continue to stand by their actions as a demonstration of protest against what they perceive as unjust immigration practices.
In conclusion, the incident at the ICE facility in Newark has sparked a debate on immigration enforcement and the role of lawmakers in holding agencies accountable for their actions. The lawmakers’ actions have raised questions about the use of force in protests and the need for transparency in immigration policies. It remains to be seen how this incident will impact future interactions between lawmakers and law enforcement agencies.
