Newark Mayor Arrested by ICE at Detention Protest

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, a Democratic candidate for governor, was arrested by ICE agents outside the Delaney Hall detention facility in Newark, New Jersey, after joining several Democratic congressional representatives attempting an oversight visit. Federal officials stated Baraka trespassed and ignored repeated warnings to leave, leading to his arrest, while the Department of Homeland Security claimed that protestors, including two members of Congress, stormed the facility without a formal tour request. The confrontation escalated into yelling, pushing, and physical altercations between activists, officials, and federal officers, with Baraka ultimately handcuffed and taken away in an unmarked vehicle. Baraka has strongly opposed the opening of the 1,000-bed facility due to permitting and safety concerns, accusing operator GEO Group of evading local regulations. Congressional members argued they were exercising legitimate oversight authority, while critics called the protest a political stunt. The arrest has intensified debate over immigration enforcement and the balance of local versus federal authority in New Jersey.