Senator Andy Kim, a Democrat from New Jersey, referred to unlawful immigrants detained at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Delaney Hall Detention Center in Newark as the “North Star” for the Democratic Party, emphasizing the need to prioritize criminals among them.
In a social media post, Kim stated, “We will fight for their dignity because they are the ones in America.” Other Democrats from New Jersey, like Representatives Frank Pallone and Rob Menendez, have echoed similar sentiments, arguing that the needs of immigrants should take precedence over those of U.S. citizens.
Kim expressed criticism toward former President Trump, claiming he has deprived these individuals of “civil rights and a path to belonging in America.” He elaborated on his efforts to support detainees at Delaney Hall.
Pallone shared after visiting the facility, highlighting how detainees value the American Dream. “They want freedom. They are surprised at being treated this way in a country that’s meant to be free,” he noted.
He further remarked that Trump is undermining the American Dream by eliminating pathways to citizenship. “He’s doing it right here at Delaney Hall,” Pallone asserted.
Menendez recounted his experience assisting one immigrant during an interview, indicating that his attempts to gain access met with resistance from ICE. After spending a night there, he was told that the individual he came to see had been moved in the early hours.
ICE shared images on social media showcasing some detainees at Delaney Hall, including those with serious criminal records, such as battery and drug manufacturing offenses.
The involvement of Democratic lawmakers in addressing the situation of illegal immigrants intensified following social media posts that displayed an anti-ICE protest, which saw violent disruptions near the detention center.
Authorities moved to clear out the disruptive protesters, while reports indicated that the local law enforcement collaborated with Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin to address the protests effectively.
Historically, Democratic lawmakers have supported increased immigration. For example, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer proclaimed back in November 2022 that the nation was in urgent need of workers to sustain its economy, emphasizing the importance of welcoming immigrants.
