House Republicans Seek to Condemn New Jersey Democrat

House Republicans are pushing for a resolution to hold a vote in May, aimed at condemning a New Jersey Democrat who faces federal charges for allegedly obstructing homeland security agents in immigration facilities.

Clay Higgins from Louisiana stated that Rep. Lamonica McQuiver’s ongoing role in the Homeland Security Committee, amidst accusations linked to federal immigration enforcement and related national security matters, raises concerns. He believes she should be removed from the committee.

McQuiver responded by labeling Higgins as biased and suggested he is chasing after media attention. In a statement, she expressed her disappointment over the resolution, asserting, “This is clearly an attempt to push me out of the committee overseeing the Department of Homeland Security.” She ended with a rather sardonic, “Good luck, Clay.”

Democrats Maintain Innocence Amid Incident

McQuiver has pleaded not guilty regarding the May incident at the Delaney Hall Federal Immigration Facility in Newark, where she was charged with assaulting a federal officer, among others. The accusations stem from her involvement in protests against immigration policies.

The resolution points out that McQuiver has faced “three indictments by the Federal Court” related to actions during the incident. It notes a House rule stating that members must conduct themselves in a manner that reflects trustworthiness.

According to a Justice Department release, McQuiver was present with other Congress members during legislative visits linked to the protests. When Newark Mayor Las Baraka was warned to leave the facility, McQuiver intervened, allegedly obstructing officers attempting to arrest Baraka.

Political Intimidation Allegations

Following her not guilty plea, McQuiver claimed the situation was about political intimidation. She criticized the use of the federal government during the Trump administration, suggesting it has turned against those who challenge them. Her trial is scheduled for November 10th.

Higgins noted that he waited until shortly before the House’s five-week break to see if Democrats would act to remove McQuiver from her committee duties. He emphasized that Republican rules mandate members who are indicted to step down from all committee responsibilities, while Democrats only require them to give up leadership roles.

Higgins asserted that McQuiver “should not be on a committee that has the authority to oversee actions of the federal branch in which she faces charges.”