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Newark Mayor Ras Baraka Arrested at ICE Detention Center Amid Escalating Political Showdown
In a dramatic escalation of tensions between local and federal authorities, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested on Friday outside the Delaney Hall Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in Newark, New Jersey. Baraka, a Democratic gubernatorial candidate known for his staunch opposition to federal immigration policies, was taken into custody after allegedly trespassing and ignoring repeated warnings from Homeland Security personnel to vacate the premises .
The arrest occurred during a protest against the recently reopened 1,000-bed detention center operated by private prison contractor GEO Group under a 15-year, $1 billion contract with ICE . Baraka has been a vocal critic of the facility, arguing that it lacks proper permits and violates local ordinances. His administration filed a lawsuit against GEO Group shortly after the contract was announced .
Accompanying Baraka were Democratic Representatives Bonnie Watson Coleman, LaMonica McIver, and Rob Menendez, who were attempting to conduct an oversight tour of the facility. According to witnesses, when federal officials blocked their entry, a heated confrontation ensued, leading to Baraka’s arrest .
Acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey, Alina Habba, stated that Baraka “chose to disregard the law” and emphasized that “no one is above the law” . The Department of Homeland Security accused the group of protesters, including the congressmembers, of storming the gate and disrupting operations, calling the incident a “bizarre political stunt” that endangered safety .
Baraka’s arrest underscores the deepening divide between local leaders and federal immigration authorities. As the mayor of New Jersey’s largest city and a gubernatorial hopeful, Baraka’s actions reflect a broader political strategy to position himself as a progressive champion against the Trump administration’s immigration policies. However, critics argue that his confrontational approach and disregard for legal protocols may undermine his credibility and effectiveness as a leader.
The incident also raises questions about the conduct of the accompanying congressmembers, particularly Rep. Rob Menendez, son of embattled U.S. Senator Bob Menendez. While video footage of the confrontation has not been publicly released, reports suggest that the lawmakers’ actions contributed to the escalation of tensions at the facility. Every legislator who resisted, pushed and assaulted the officers should have been arrested and charged accordingly, including Rob Menendez.
As the situation continues to unfold, Baraka’s campaign has stated that they are “actively monitoring” the events and will provide further details as they become available . The mayor’s arrest marks a significant moment in the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement and the role of local governments in challenging federal policies.
