Anti-ICE Protest in New Jersey Sparks Immigration Policy Debate
In Newark, New Jersey, protests against ICE have escalated, with demonstrators blocking roads and demanding the closure of detention facilities, as well as the release of all detainees. Ben Ferguson, a podcast host, criticized Democrats for supporting these demands, including calls for releasing serious offenders. He believes this prioritizes illegal immigrants over American citizens and undermines law enforcement efforts.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, alongside sheriffs from across New York, is considering legal action against Governor Kathy Hochul. She aims to ban local cooperation agreements with ICE, arguing that such agreements ensure a safer process for removing criminal illegal immigrants from communities.
This backlash coincides with Hochul’s proposal for extensive sanctuary policies in New York’s 2027 budget. These policies include prohibiting 287(g) agreements, which allow local law enforcement to work on specific immigration duties, and restricting ICE’s access to schools, hospitals, and churches.
Blakeman, also a Republican candidate for governor, stated he is discussing potential lawsuits with sheriffs statewide, expressing frustration over Hochul’s stance. “Nassau County is enforcing federal law, and many sheriffs feel the same way,” he said.
Todd Hood, a sheriff and Blakeman’s running mate from Madison County, opposes Hochul’s plans. He entered into a 287(g) agreement with ICE last July and has received calls from numerous sheriffs who share his concerns. Hood mentioned that the majority are against the proposed changes.
The 287(g) agreements enable local law enforcement to carry out some immigration enforcement tasks under federal guidance. Currently, 14 agreements are active across nine New York counties.
Hochul first introduced the ban on these agreements early this year, warning that non-compliance could lead to legal action. Under existing agreements, local officers can inform ICE when they arrest an illegal immigrant, allowing federal agents to take custody directly from local jails.
Nassau County entered a 287(g) agreement with ICE in February 2025, resulting in around 3,200 illegal immigrants being transferred to ICE from local police custody.
Earlier in the month, a man named López Avalos, an undocumented immigrant, was arrested for setting vehicles on fire but released due to non-bailable charges. However, thanks to Nassau County’s partnership with ICE, federal agents apprehended him shortly after his hearing.
Hood emphasized that successful law enforcement hinges on collaboration across all agencies, which he believes was lacking during ICE operations in Minnesota. He criticized the local police’s absence during such operations and asserted that this wouldn’t occur if he were in charge.
FOX News Digital has reached out to Hochul’s office for a response.
